Activities of Attila ARA-KOVÁCS
Plenary speeches (8)
The UK’s withdrawal from the EU (debate)
Situation in Ukraine (debate)
The Turkish military operation in northeast Syria and its consequences (debate)
The 30th Anniversary of the Velvet revolution: importance of the fight for freedom and democracy in Central and Eastern Europe for the historical unification of Europe (debate)
The Russian "Foreign Agents" Law
Annual report on the implementation of the common foreign and security policy - Annual report on the implementation of the common security and defence policy (debate)
EU Association Agreement with Ukraine (continuation of debate)
The EU and the security challenges in the Indo-Pacific (debate)
Shadow reports (4)
REPORT on the implementation of the common security and defence policy – annual report
REPORT on a European Parliament recommendation to the Council, the Commission and the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy on the Eastern Partnership, in the run-up to the June 2020 Summit
REPORT on the EU and the security challenges in the Indo-Pacific
RECOMMENDATION on the draft Council decision on the conclusion of the Protocol to the Euro-Mediterranean Interim Association Agreement on trade and cooperation between the European Community, of the one part, and the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) for the benefit of the Palestinian Authority of the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, of the other part, on a Framework Agreement between the European Union and the Palestinian Authority of the West Bank and the Gaza Strip on the general principles for its participation in Union programmes
Opinions (2)
OPINION on discharge in respect of the implementation of the general budget of the European Union for the financial year 2018, Section III – Commission and executive agencies
OPINION on MFF 2021-2027: fight against oligarch structures, protection of EU funds from fraud and conflict of interest
Shadow opinions (4)
OPINION with recommendations to the Commission on an EU legal framework to halt and reverse EU-driven global deforestation
OPINION on cohesion policy and regional environment strategies in the fight against climate change
OPINION Conclusion of the Free Trade Agreement between the European Union and New Zealand
OPINION on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council laying down measures to strengthen solidarity and capacities in the Union to detect, prepare for and respond to cybersecurity threats and incidents
Institutional motions (1)
MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION on the commemoration of the 30th anniversary of the Romanian revolution of December 1989
Oral questions (3)
Breaches of EU law and of the rights of LGBTIQ citizens in Hungary as a result of the adopted legal changes in the Hungarian Parliament
Call for a European strategy to counter hostage diplomacy
Restitution of plundered property to Holocaust victims and Jewish communities
Written explanations (3)
Fair taxation in a digitalised and globalised economy - BEPS 2.0 (B9-0238/2019)
A nemzetközi nagyvállalatok által elkövetett adóelkerülés Magyarországon és egész Európában súlyos gond. Nem hagyhatjuk, hogy mindenféle kiskapuk, a tagállamok együttműködésének hiánya, vagy éppen egyes tagállami kormányok cinkossága miatt multicégek sora kerülje el az adózást. A nemzetközi nagyvállalatok Magyarországon alig fizetnek társasági adót. Ebben súlyosan bűnös az Orbán kormány, mely adóparadicsomot teremt a multiknak, miközben szétzülleszti azokat a közszolgáltatásokat, az oktatást, az egészségügyet és a szociális rendszert, amelyeket az így elmaradó adókból kellene fedezni.Az Európai Parlament határozat-tervezete „A méltányos adózásról a digitalizált és globalizált gazdaságban” éppen azt a célt szolgálja, hogy az ilyen bűnös gyakorlatnak véget vessen. Hatékony uniós fellépést sürget, építve a világ vezető gazdaságai, és az OECD által már megkezdett együttműködésre. A Demokratikus Koalíció EP képviselőjeként elengedhetetlennek tartom, hogy a nemzetközi multicégek, a nagyvállalatok is ténylegesen fizessék meg a nyereségükkel arányos társasági adót. Különösen fontos, hogy az EP határozata a kisvállalkozások adóterheit nem növeli. Ezért a határozatot szavazatommal támogatom, és a jövőben is az igazságos, méltányos, a kis- és középvállalkozásokat támogató adóztatás érdekében fogok dolgozni.
Existence of a clear risk of a serious breach by Hungary of the values on which the Union is founded (A9-0217/2022 - Gwendoline Delbos-Corfield)
Az Állampolgári Jogi, Bel- és Igazságügyi Bizottság jelentése a korábbi Sargentini-jelentést alapul véve 11 fő téma mentén értékeli a magyar jogállamiság helyzetét. A témák fő fókusza kitér az alkotmányos és a választási rendszer működésére, az igazságszolgáltatás függetlenségére, a korrupcióra, az adatvédelemre és a magánélet védelmére, a véleménynyilvánítás szabadságára és a médiapluralizmusra, az alapvető szabadságjogokra (tudomány, vallás, egyesülés, egyenlő bánásmód), a kisebbségek, az LMBTIQ-személyek, migránsok, menedékkérők és menekültek jogainak védelmére és a gazdasági-szociális jogokra.Bár a jelentés elsődleges célja, hogy előmozdítsa az eljárásról szóló tanácsi szavazást, a Szerződések őreként ismert Bizottságot is felszólítja többek között a jogállamisági feltételrendszerről szóló rendelet hatékony alkalmazására.Magyar európai parlamenti képviselőként a jelentés elfogadását támogattam, mert úgy vélem, hogy az Európai Unió ne adjon addig pénzügyi támogatást az Orbán-kormánynak, ameddig nincsen az garantálva, hogy az orbáni oligarchák helyett ténylegesen a magyar emberek részesülnek ezekből a támogatásokból. Éppen ezért módosítóindítványban az Európai Bizottságot arra kértük, hogy amennyiben az érintett kormány, jelen esetben a magyar kormány esetében fennáll a jogállamisággal kapcsolatos hiányosság ténye, akkor minden eszközzel járjon el annak érdekében, hogy az uniós források elosztása helyi önkormányzatokon és nem kormányzati szervezeteken keresztül legyen biztosítva a magyar emberek számára.
An EU strategy to boost industrial competitiveness, trade and quality jobs (B9-0085/2023, B9-0086/2023, B9-0087/2023, B9-0088/2023, B9-0089/2023, B9-0090/2023, B9-0091/2023, B9-0104/2023, B9-0105/2023, RC-B9-0107/2023, B9-0107/2023, B9-0108/2023, B9-0110/2023, B9-0111/2023, B9-0115/2023)
Az EP plenáris ülésén szavazatommal támogattam az európai ipar versenyképességét, a kereskedelemet és a minőségi munkahely-teremtést erősítő állásfoglalást.A stratégia célja az európai gazdaság fejlesztése és védelme annak érdekében, hogy a fenntartható gazdaságba való igazságos átmenettel, a digitalizációval, az európai gazdasági szuverenitás erősítésével kapcsolatos európai céljaink teljesülhessenek. További feladat, hogy felkészüljünk nemzetközi versenytársaink, Kína és az Egyesült Államok kereskedelempolitikájának változásaira. El kell érnünk, hogy az EU továbbra is vonzó terep legyen a magas technológiai iparágak, és a fenntartható jövő szempontjából fontos gazdasági ágazatok számára. Csak így biztosíthatjuk, hogy az európaiak, köztük a magyar emberek is versenyképes, fenntartható, magas minőségű munkahelyeken dolgozhassanak.Ugyanakkor elengedhetetlen, hogy az ipari beruházások során a legmesszebb menőkig érvényesítsük a természeti környezet, a biológiai sokféleség védelmét. A meglévő és az újonnan épülő gyárak számára egyaránt kötelező a helyi lakossággal és a helyi civil szervezetekkel való folyamatos, demokratikus egyeztetés, jogos érdekeik figyelembevétele. Ezt a helyi párbeszédet szerveznie és támogatnia kell a kormány és a helyi önkormányzatok képviselőinek, mert kiemelt felelősségük, hogy partikuláris gazdasági érdekek ne írhassák felül az egészséges élethez, életkörülményekhez való jogukat.
Written questions (38)
Hungarian Government misuse of EU funds for agricultural subsidies
New law on culture in Hungary
Emergency eurobonds
Discrimination against LGBTQ+ citizens in Hungary
Mass arrest of LGBTI activists in Poland
Azerbaijan’s hostile activities against Armenia
Undermining media freedom in Hungary
Undermining media freedom in Hungary
Recently proposed bills in Hungary infringing on the rights of LGBTI persons
The Commission’s most recent plans to strengthen European health and the European Health Union
State of play of the Commission’s response to ‘LGBT-free zones’ in Poland
Terrorist act in the Czech Republic by Russian secret service agents
Belarusian state-sponsored air piracy and terrorism
Frontal attack on the LGBTQI community in Hungary
Legal gender recognition ban in Hungary found to be in violation of EU law
Hungarian Media Authority Regulation’s censorship of LGBTI-friendly ad
Revision of the State aid guidelines for broadband
The possible violation of Article 49 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union by a new Polish media bill
Politico’s revelations on Commissioner Várhelyi
Extension and amendment of the sanctions framework for Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH)
In recent years, Putin’s secret service has had full access to the Hungarian Foreign Ministry’s computers, but Orbán’s administration does not want to repel the attack
Restrictions of fundamental freedoms in Algeria
Further restriction of mass media in Hungary
The Kremlin’s investments in EU political parties
Russia’s military actions causing Ukraine’s energy infrastructure crisis
Designation of the IRGC as a terrorist organisation within the parameters of Common Position 2001/931/CFSP
Activation of the Temporary Protection Directive in response to the devastating earthquake in Turkey
Issuing visas to Iranian women and girls
The human rights situation in Uganda and the closure of the local UN human rights office
Increase of funds under the EU budgetary framework for the EU Civil Protection Mechanism
Opacity of purchase of Vodafone Hungary by Hungarian government and surveillance-related risks
Creation of a European civil peace corps
Rise of antisemitism and hate speech in Bulgaria
Blockade of Lachin Corridor (Nagorno-Karabakh) by Azerbaijan
Attack on Stepanakert by Azerbaijan
Sexualised violence in the context of Hamas attacks of 7 October 2023
The far-right and neo-Nazi gathering in Budapest known as the ‘Day of Honour’
Urgent need to take action for the liberation of Vladimir Kara-Murza
Amendments (1878)
Amendment 2 #
2023/2127(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2 a (new)
Citation 2 a (new)
– having regard to the Joint Communication from the Commission and the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy to the European Parliament and the Council of 22 June 2016 entitled “Elements for a new EU strategy on China” (JOIN(2016)030),
Amendment 4 #
2023/2127(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 3
Citation 3
– having regard to the EU strategy for cooperation in the Indo-Pacific from 16 September 2021 and the EU Strategy on Central Asia from 17 June 2019,
Amendment 7 #
2023/2127(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 5
Citation 5
– having regard to the speeches by President Ursula von der Leyen on de- risking at the European Policy Centre on 30 March 2023 and at the European Parliament on 18 April 2023,
Amendment 15 #
2023/2127(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 8 a (new)
Citation 8 a (new)
– having regard to the European Parliament resolutions of 19 December 2019 on the situation of the Uyghurs in China (China Cables), of 5 May 2022 on the reports of continued organ harvesting in China, of 7 June 2022 on the human rights situation in Xinjiang, of 15 December 2022 on the Chinese Government crackdown on the peaceful protests across the People’s Republic of China,
Amendment 21 #
2023/2127(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 8 b (new)
Citation 8 b (new)
– having regard to the European Parliament resolutions of 18 July 2019 on the situation in Hong Kong, of 19 June 2020 on the PRC national security law for Hong Kong and the need for the EU to defend Kong Kong’s high degree of autonomy, of 21 January 2021 on the crackdown on the democratic opposition in Hong Kong, of 8 July 2021 on Hong Kong, notably the case of Apple Daily, of 20 January 2022 on violations of fundamental freedoms in Hong Kong, of 7 July 2022 on the arrest of Cardinal Zen and the trustees of the 612 Humanitarian Relief Fund in Hong Kong, of 15 June 2023 on the deterioration of fundamental freedoms in Hong Kong, notably the case of Jimmy Lai,
Amendment 25 #
2023/2127(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 8 c (new)
Citation 8 c (new)
– having regard to the European Parliament recommendation of 21 October 2021 to the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy on EU-Taiwan political relations and cooperation and to the European Parliament resolution of 15 September 2022 on the situation in the Strait of Taiwan,
Amendment 65 #
2023/2127(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
Ba. whereas, as a permanent Member of the United Nations Security Council, China must assume its responsibilities and uphold a rules-based international order, an effective multilateralism and global governance;
Amendment 75 #
2023/2127(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C a (new)
Recital C a (new)
Ca. whereas the promotion and protection of human rights, democracy and the rule of law should remain at the centre of the relationship between the EU and China, in line with the EU’s commitment to upholding these fundamental principles in all areas of its external action;
Amendment 87 #
2023/2127(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas China is changing and moving into a new era of security and control characterised by an increasingly assertive economic and foreign policy, attempts to changehinder the international rules- based order and increasingly oppressive domestic policies;
Amendment 98 #
2023/2127(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas the EU can only credibly defend its interests and values against an increasingly assertive China if it acts with a single, united and determined approach;
Amendment 132 #
2023/2127(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H
Recital H
H. whereas the EU must not accept any unilateral change to the status quo in the Taiwan Strait, particularly by force, nor ongoing human rights violations within China, in particular in Xinjiang, Tibet, Inner Mongolia and Hong Kong, Hong Kong and Macao, and must stand in solidarity with those facing human rights abuses;
Amendment 163 #
2023/2127(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point a
Paragraph 1 – point a
(a) continue engaging with China to tackle global challenges such as climate change and protection of biodiversity, health and pandemic preparedness, food security, debt relief and humanitarian assistance, financial stability and increase dialogue with China on security issues in view of China’s increasingly critical role in global security;
Amendment 179 #
2023/2127(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point b
Paragraph 1 – point b
(b) call on China to uphold the rules- based international order, especially the principles of the UN Charter, including respect for the territorial integrity orand political independence of all states, and respect for intergovernmental organisations and international treaties;
Amendment 188 #
2023/2127(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point c
Paragraph 1 – point c
(c) maintain diplomatic stabilityengagement while increasing the EU’s assertiveness towards China in order to assume its responsibility as a member of the UN Security Council to pressure Russia into stopping its illegal war of aggression against Ukraine and refraining from delivering any military aid and from facilitating the circumvention of EU sanctions against Russia;
Amendment 195 #
2023/2127(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point c a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point c a (new)
(ca) actively engage with China in diplomatic efforts to resolve conflicts and promote peace and stability, such as the normalisation of relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran, and de-escalade tensions on the Korean Peninsula and the abandon of North Korea’s nuclear programme;
Amendment 198 #
2023/2127(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point d
Paragraph 1 – point d
(d) reiterate that China, as the world’s largest carbon emitter, must commit to peak its CO2 emissions before 2030 in line with the Paris Agreement and to achieve carbon neutrality before 2060 in line with its own promises;
Amendment 219 #
2023/2127(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point f
Paragraph 1 – point f
(f) respond adequately to China’s efforts to build an alternative international organisationsglobal governance, including through the BRICS+ group of countries (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa), by ensuring better coordination among the EU Member States, South Africa, Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates), by ensuring better coordination among the EU Member States, strengthening bilateral relations and cooperation with third- countries, and intensifying partnerships with like-minded partners around the world, including with Global South countries;
Amendment 231 #
2023/2127(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point f a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point f a (new)
(fa) address the risks created by China’s acquisition of critical infrastructures in the Members States, in the Western Balkans and in the EU neighbourhood;
Amendment 232 #
2023/2127(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point f b (new)
Paragraph 1 – point f b (new)
(fb) urge China to make concessions to address the management and the restructuration of the debt of the countries of the Global South; as a response should reinforce Global Gateway with proper and appropriate funding, should better involve and take into account priorities of the partner countries when identifying projects and should ensure a proper oversight and parliamentary scrutiny mechanism;
Amendment 238 #
2023/2127(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point g
Paragraph 1 – point g
(g) insist that China fulfils its international legal responsibilities as a global power by upholding human rights and the rule of law, and should be held accountable for human rights violations;
Amendment 259 #
2023/2127(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point h
Paragraph 1 – point h
(h) ensure a unified European approachresponse when China uses its economic leverage to silence opposition against its human rights abuses; intensify the Human Rights Dialogue in view of bringing genuine human rights improvements and include Members of the European Parliament in theis Human Rights Dialogue with China and work towards; deliver a united approach on cultural and academic cooperation with China while preventing undue influence from Chinese sources of finance;
Amendment 267 #
2023/2127(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point i
Paragraph 1 – point i
(i) support anurge a proper implementation of the recommendations of the independent and impartial UN investigation into human rights violations in China, in particular in Xinjiang and Tibet, and urge the Chinese authorities to grant meaningful access to the regions concerned and immediately and unconditionally release the Uyghur scholar and 2019 Sakharov Prize Laureate Ilham Tohti; call on the EU to urge China allowing a similar investigation to take place in Tibet against repression, detention facilities, extrajudicial killings, assimilation of Tibetan children in residential schools and forced abortion and sterilisation; urge the Chinese authorities to grant meaningful access to the regions concerned and immediately and unconditionally release the Uyghur scholar and 2019 Sakharov Prize Laureate Ilham Tohti; more generally urge to terminate the systemic repression, to close all detention camps and to lift sanctions and release all political prisoners and Human Rights Defenders detained in China;
Amendment 282 #
2023/2127(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point i a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point i a (new)
(ia) welcome the European Commission proposal for a regulation to prohibit products made using forced labour, including child labour, on the internal market of European Union; urge the EU co-legislators to speed up the process to come to an agreement as a matter of urgency and before the end of the parliamentary term;
Amendment 309 #
2023/2127(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point k
Paragraph 1 – point k
(k) show solidarity with the Chinese civil society in China and Hong Kong and speed up the implementation of the European hU Global Human rRights framework with Magnitsky-style sanctions Regime in close collaboration with international partners, including the freezing of foreign assets and visa restrictions against those involved in human rights abuses, including political decision makers in Hong Kong and Macao;
Amendment 316 #
2023/2127(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point l
Paragraph 1 – point l
(l) identify and close down any avenues that currently facilitate transnational repression efforts by the People’s Republic of China (PRC), including in the European Union and in particular those targeting diaspora communities through the Chinese overseas police service stations, in cooperation and coordination with like- minded partners;
Amendment 317 #
2023/2127(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point l a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point l a (new)
(la) actively work to counteract foreign interference and implement the recommendations and suggested initiatives referred to in the different resolutions and reports of the European Parliament related to foreign interference in all democratic processes in the European Union, including disinformation;
Amendment 321 #
2023/2127(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point m
Paragraph 1 – point m
(m) reviewassess the autonomous status of Hong Kong and Macao in the light of the National Security Law which should be repealed and the PRC’s violation of its international commitments, its breaches of the Sino-British Joint Declaration and the Sino-Portuguese Joint Declaration, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the ‘one country, two systems’ principle, and the crackdown on Hong Kong’sthe special administrative regions’ autonomy and opposition figures, including members of civil society;
Amendment 326 #
2023/2127(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point n
Paragraph 1 – point n
(n) condemn attempts by the Chinese authorities to target Hong Kong diaspora communities within the EU and call on Member States to suspend extradition treaties with the PRC and Hong Kong, through the Chinese overseas police service stations in the EU which should unconditionally be closed down, and call on Member States to suspend extradition treaties with the PRC and Hong Kong and to protect individuals who are harassed and persecuted in the EU and those at risk of extradition;
Amendment 335 #
2023/2127(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point n a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point n a (new)
(na) urge the EU and the Member States to actively engage and offer assistance and support to human rights and democracy activists in China; denounce that China’s responses to protests and forms of political public demonstrations go against with international human rights standards and its obligations under international human rights law;
Amendment 362 #
2023/2127(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point o
Paragraph 1 – point o
(o) work closely towards fostering unity among the Member States’ approach towards China and strengthen the EU’s strategic autonomy to ensure that Europe is able to defend its values and economic interests, as well as the globinternational rules-based order;
Amendment 382 #
2023/2127(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point q
Paragraph 1 – point q
(q) strengthen the EU’s economopen strategic autonomy, ensure mutually beneficial economic relations and prevent sensitive technologies from being used for military purposes by de-risking trade flows and reducing critical dependencies on the PRC without aiming to decouple or turning inwards;
Amendment 385 #
2023/2127(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point r
Paragraph 1 – point r
(r) swiftly implement, in this context, the European Economic Security Strategy to foster economic resilience and make better use of our existing trade instruments to minimise the detrimental effects of de- risking on the European economy, deter China’s unfair practices, and to ensure close alignment with like-minded partners around the world, such as our transatlantic partners and partners in Southeast Asia;
Amendment 400 #
2023/2127(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point s
Paragraph 1 – point s
(s) work towards a more coordinated approach and response towards the protection of critical infrastructure at EU level and call on the EU Institutions to terminate any research funding to Chinese companies active in the areas of critical and strategic importance for the EU;
Amendment 402 #
2023/2127(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point s a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point s a (new)
(sa) urge the European Commission to come up before the end of the parliamentary term with a detailed analysis of the risks regarding the semiconductors, quantum computing, blockchain, space, AI or biotechnologies and the possible need of EU action in these fields; further urge the Commission to continuously monitor the risks concerning Chinese-state-subsidised investment in EU critical infrastructure, and step up cooperation with Member States to raise awareness hereof, and effectively mitigate these risks;
Amendment 425 #
2023/2127(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point u
Paragraph 1 – point u
(u) highlight that the EU’s ‘One China policy’ remains the foundation of our engagement with both the PRC and Taiwan but alsoand underline the positive effect of deepening ties between the EU and Taiwan;
Amendment 439 #
2023/2127(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point w
Paragraph 1 – point w
(w) ensure that the status quo in the Taiwan Strait is not changed by means of force or coercionshould condemn China’s confrontational attitude towards Taiwan and strive for the status quo in the Taiwan Strait, denouncing any unilateral use of threat or force or any unilateral change to this status quo, which would have massive and global repercussions. A change of the status quo in the Taiwan Strait must only take place by peaceful means and with mutual consent, by supporting initiatives aimed at promoting peaceful resolution, dialogue, cooperation and confidence- building between the two sides; prepare a scenario-based strategy for tackling potential security challenges in the Taiwan Strait; support any reinforced EU policy of deterrence vis-à-vis China in view of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and in the Region, and more largely in the East and South China Seas;
Amendment 457 #
2023/2127(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point x
Paragraph 1 – point x
(x) establish a ‘Far-East StratCom Task Force’ as part of the European External Action Service, to be tasked with identifying, monitoring and countering disinformation efforts and nation-specific actions by, information manipulation efforts, interference and nation-specific actions originating from various countries, including China;
Amendment 469 #
2023/2127(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point y
Paragraph 1 – point y
(y) fully leverage the Global Gateway strategy as a tool to intensify the EU’s engagement in global development efforts and business relations with partners from developing countries andto provide an alternative to Chinese-driven foreign investment strategies;
Amendment 3 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
– having regard to the North Atlantic Treaty,
Amendment 27 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 14 a (new)
Citation 14 a (new)
– having regard to Council Decision (CFSP) 2021/509 of 22 March 2021 establishing a European Peace Facility (EPF),
Amendment 29 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 14 b (new)
Citation 14 b (new)
– having regard to the Council Decision (CFSP) 2022/1968 of 17 October 2022 establishing the Military Assistance Mission in support of Ukraine (EUMAM Ukraine),
Amendment 30 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 14 c (new)
Citation 14 c (new)
– having regard to the Council conclusions of 22 January 2018 on the integrated approach to external conflicts and crises, and 24 January 2022 on the European security situation,
Amendment 32 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 14 d (new)
Citation 14 d (new)
– having regard to the Council conclusions of 21 February 2022 extending and enhancing the implementation of the Coordinated Maritime Presences Concept in the Gulf of Guinea,
Amendment 34 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 14 e (new)
Citation 14 e (new)
– having regard to the ‘Strategic Compass for Security and Defence – For a European Union that protects its citizens, values and interests and contributes to international peace and security’, which was approved by the Council on 21 March 2022 and endorsed by the European Council on 25 March 2022,
Amendment 36 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 14 f (new)
Citation 14 f (new)
– having regard to the Joint communication from the Commission and the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy of 18 May 2022 entitled ‘Defence Investment Gaps Analysis and Way Forward’ (JOIN(2022)0024),
Amendment 38 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 14 g (new)
Citation 14 g (new)
– having regard to the Joint communication from the Commission and the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy of 10 November 2022 entitled ‘Action plan on military mobility 2.0’ (JOIN(2022)0048),
Amendment 41 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 14 h (new)
Citation 14 h (new)
– having regard to the three Joint Declarations on EU-NATO cooperation signed on 8 July 2016, 10 July 2018 and 10 January 2023,
Amendment 42 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 14 i (new)
Citation 14 i (new)
– having regard to Russia’s unjustified and unprovoked war of aggression against Ukraine, its illegal invasion and annexation of Crimea and the Donetsk, Kherson, Luhansk and Zaporizhzhia regions, as well as the occupation of Georgia’s regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia and the Republic of Moldova’s region of Transnistria,
Amendment 43 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 14 j (new)
Citation 14 j (new)
– having regard to the Charter of the United Nations,
Amendment 44 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 14 k (new)
Citation 14 k (new)
– having regard to the Charter of the United Nations, in particular its Article 2.4 prohibiting the use of force and Article 51 on the inherent right to individual and collective self-defence,
Amendment 45 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 14 l (new)
Citation 14 l (new)
– having regard to UN Security Council Resolutions 1325 (2000), 1889 (2013), 2122 (2013), 2242 (2015) and 2493 (2019) on Women, Peace and Security and Resolutions 2250 (2015), 2419 (2018) and 2535 (2020) on Youth, Peace and Security,
Amendment 46 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 14 m (new)
Citation 14 m (new)
– having regard to its resolution of 18 January 2023 on the implementation of the Common Security and Defence Policy – annual report 2022,
Amendment 47 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 14 n (new)
Citation 14 n (new)
– having regard to its recommendation of 8 June 2022 to the Council and the VP/HR on the EU’s Foreign, Security and Defence Policy after the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine,
Amendment 48 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 14 o (new)
Citation 14 o (new)
– having regard to the joint communication to the European Parliament and the Council: European Union Space Strategy for Security and Defence, published on 10 March 2023 (JOIN(2023)0009),
Amendment 49 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 14 p (new)
Citation 14 p (new)
– having regard to the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council laying down measures to strengthen solidarity and capacities in the Union to detect, prepare for and respond to cybersecurity threats and incidents (COM(2023/0209) – C9 0136/2023 – 2023/0109(COD)),
Amendment 75 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
Ba. whereas the European Union is facing the most diverse range of threats since its creation, accentuated by Russia’s unprovoked, unjustified and illegal war of aggression against Ukraine, the rise of multipolarity and opposition to the established rules-based order, and the development of new kinds of threats and technologies across domains; whereas in response to these threats the EU urgently needs to enhance the effectiveness of its foreign, security and defence policy to defend its interests, values and citizens, both within and outside its borders, and first and foremost in its neighbourhood, to deliver peace, human security, sustainable development and democracy, and to support its partners;
Amendment 92 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B b (new)
Recital B b (new)
Bb. whereas the rise in use of hybrid attacks and threats, as demonstrated by Russia’s activities the EU, in Ukraine, in Africa and elsewhere necessitate the development of comprehensive instruments to detect, prevent and react to such incidents and protect the Union’s citizens and assets, through transforming traditional military capacities, improving the security of critical infrastructure, countering foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI) and further developing a common high level of cybersecurity; whereas China has also demonstrated increased use of hybrid tools aimed at undermining the stability of the EU;
Amendment 99 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B c (new)
Recital B c (new)
Bc. whereas in 2023 the Parliament and the Council concluded agreements on the European defence industry reinforcement through common procurement act (EDIRPA) and the Act in Support of Ammunition Production (ASAP) which aim to encourage the joint procurement of defence products, ramp up the European defence industry’s production capacity, replenish depleted stocks and reduce fragmentation in the defence-procurement sector; whereas further initiatives are needed to establish genuine European defence integration, including a European Defence Investment Program (EDIP);
Amendment 110 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B d (new)
Recital B d (new)
Bd. whereas building capabilities and adapting them to military needs requires a common strategic culture, threat perception and solutions to be developed and combined in doctrine and concepts;
Amendment 115 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B e (new)
Recital B e (new)
Be. whereas maximising the EU’s and Member States’ defence capabilities requires smarter spending and greater joint procurement;
Amendment 119 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B f (new)
Recital B f (new)
Bf. whereas the EU’s integrated approach to external conflicts and crises provides for a coherent use of the EU’s different capacities, within which its security and defence policy should complement and be complemented by other civilian tools to contribute to human security and sustainable peace in Europe and the wider world;
Amendment 127 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B g (new)
Recital B g (new)
Bg. whereas the Eastern Neighbourhood and the Western Balkans face increasingly diverse threats to their security and stability and required increased cooperation with the EU in the field of security; whereas security in these regions is negatively affected by Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine;
Amendment 129 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B h (new)
Recital B h (new)
Bh. whereas the CSDP has 9 military missions and 13 civilian missions with over 4000 personnel; whereas CSDP missions and operations often lack rapid- decision making and suffer from excessive micro-management from the Council, as well as limited financial, logistical and human resources; whereas Member States are deploying less personnel to the missions and operations; whereas such obstacles limit the overall effectiveness of CSDP missions and operations; whereas one of the objectives of the Strategic Compass is to reinforce EU civilian and military CSDP missions and operations by providing them with more robust and flexible mandates, promoting rapid and more flexible decision-making processes and ensuring greater financial solidarity; whereas the Military Assistance Mission in support of Ukraine has demonstrated the positive impact CSDP missions and operations have with the necessary resources and contributions from Member States; whereas EU CSDP missions and operations are often targeted by hybrid threats, including FIMI campaigns, putting at risk their effectiveness in stabilising the country in which they are deployed;
Amendment 132 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B i (new)
Recital B i (new)
Bi. whereas security and defence cooperation with partners and allies are crucial to the EU’s ambition to become an international security provider; whereas cooperation with UN, NATO, African Union, OSCE, ASEAN as well as numerous allies and like-minded partners such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Ukraine, Moldova, Japan, South Korea, Australia amongst others are crucial to the successful implementation of the CSDP;
Amendment 136 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B j (new)
Recital B j (new)
Bj. whereas the Arctic region is becoming increasingly important for geopolitics, economic development and transport, while at the same time it is facing challenges linked to climate change, militarisation and migration;
Amendment 137 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B k (new)
Recital B k (new)
Bk. whereas the Russian Federation makes use of private military companies (PMCs), such as the Wagner Group as part of a hybrid warfare toolbox to maintain plausible deniability while exerting influence in various regions and gaining access to natural resources and critical infrastructures; whereas Wagner Group has reportedly committed atrocities in Ukraine, Mali, Libya, Syria and the CAR; whereas it has reinforced anti- European sentiments, especially in countries with strong European presence or hosting CSDP missions;
Amendment 140 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B l (new)
Recital B l (new)
Bl. whereas conflicts disproportionately affect women and girls and, among other things, intensify gender-based violence as also demonstrated by Russia’s unjustified war of aggression against Ukraine; whereas the participation of women in peacekeeping and military operations should be encouraged and strengthened;
Amendment 167 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Stresses the importance of the European Peace Facility (EPF) which has supported the Ukrainian armed forces by financing and delivering military equipment and training, while providing coordination for all stakeholders through the Clearing House Mechanism hosted by the EU Military Staff; calls for the financial sustainability and durability of the EPF to be ensured in order to provide Ukraine and other EU partners around the world with the support they request; welcomes in this regard VP/HR Borrell’s proposal, building on Parliament’s previous call, for the creation of a 20 billion euros assistance fund within the EPF, dedicated to supporting the Ukrainian armed forces with up to 5 billion euros per year between 2023-2027, and calls on Member States to rapidly approve it; strongly condemns efforts made by Hungary to block recent attempts to top-up the EPF as well as the VP/HR’s proposal on the special assistance fund for Ukraine; emphasises that all military assistance and weapons deliveries by the EPF must fully comply with the EU Common Position on arms exports, international human rights law and humanitarian law, as well as providing adequate transparency and accountability;
Amendment 179 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Welcomes the setting up of the Military Assistance Mission in support of Ukraine (EUMAM Ukraine) and its role in enhancing the military effectiveness of Ukraine’s armed forces so they can defend their territorial integrity within Ukraine’s internationally recognised borders and allow the country to effectively exercise its sovereignty and protection of civilians; congratulates the EEAS and Member States for the projected successful training of up to 30 000 troops before the end of 2023 and further calls on them to extend the number of trained troops beyond the original goal; stresses the importance of specific training modules aimed at developing the capacities of existing and future officers of the Ukrainian armed forces across all levels and in accordance with their needs; further welcomes the rapid conclusion of deliberations and strong participation by Member States in launching EUMAM Ukraine, which can be described as a template for future military training missions, and calls on them to demonstrate similar ambition and contributions to other current and future CSDP missions and operations;
Amendment 194 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Underlines the EU’s concrete support to Ukraine through the ‘three ammunition tracks’; urges faster delivery of ammunition from Member States’ existing stocks through the EPF; calls for the joint procurement of ammunition for Ukraine to be sped up and stresses the need to ramp up the third track and ensure themanufacturing capacities of the European industry by ensuring rapid and effective implementation of the Act in Support of Ammunition Production; further stresses that concrete steps should be taken towards Ukraine’s integration in EU defence policies and programmes during the EU membership process, building on the existing agreement with the European Defence Agency (EDA) and as a beneficiary ofthe possibility for Member States to procure on behalf of Ukraine as a recipient of additional quantities within the European defence industry reinforcement through common procurement act (EDIRPA); calls on the European External Action Service to come forward with a plan for a sustainable and long-term package of security commitments for Ukraine;
Amendment 217 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Underlines the commitment of the EU’s heads of state and government, made in the Versailles Declaration, to provide all the necessary support needed by Ukraine and to take greater responsibility for European security by bolstering European defence capabilities; calls on the EU and its Member States to deliver on this commitment by accelerating the full implementation of the Strategic Compass in order to make the European Union a stronger and more capable security provider; stresses that the Strategic Compass’ ambitious aims and milestones can only be achieved with corresponding political willingness and action on behalf of Member States and the EU institutions, as well as the necessary financial contributions where necessary;
Amendment 241 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Reminds the Member States of their commitment to strengthening the mMilitary pPlanning and cConduct cCapacity (MPCC) and achieving full operational capability, including through the provision of adequate premises, staff, and reorganisation of the EU Military Staff; demands that its Full Operational Capability should be reached by 2025, as stated in the Strategic Compass, and despite Council conclusions of 19 November 2018, which envisaged a 2020 deadline; further demands that the MPCC’s staffing level should be increased considerably up to 250 personnel; emphasises the urgent need to establish the MPCC as the preferred command and control structure for EU military operations, in particular with regard to the use of the future Rapid Deployment Capability (RDC);
Amendment 244 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10a. Emphasises the importance of continuing to operationalise Article 42(7) TEU on mutual assistance and to clarify the coherence between this and Article 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty, considering that not all EU Member States are NATO members;
Amendment 248 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Reiterates its full support for the rapid deployment capacity (EU RDC) with at least 5 000 troops available for crisis situations, such as rescue and evacuation tasks, initial entry and stabilisation operations or temporary reinforcement of missions; calls on the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy (VP/HR) to set Member States to take into account the practical modalities for implementing Article 44 TEU during the operationalisation of the EU RDC as well as in other CSDP operational engagements, as relevant, in order to allow a group of willing and able Member States to plan and conduct a mission or operation within the EU framework and, thereby, ensure the swift activation of the RDC; welcomes the first ever live exercise for the RDC, taking place in October 2023 in Spain and looks forward to further live exercises in the future aimed at improving its capabilities, increasing interoperability between Member States and effectively testing the utilisation of the RDC in various scenarios; calls on Member States and EEAS to ensure that such training and certification exercises are covered by the common costs mechanism to ensure adequate participation in the future;
Amendment 264 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
Amendment 275 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
12a. Strongly condemns the rising number of coup d’états in Africa in the last 3 years, namely in Burkina Faso, Gabon, Guinea, Mali, Niger and Sudan; strongly supports the decisions made by ECOWAS and the African Union in response to the coups and calls on Member States the EEAS to explore how to effectively assist them in their efforts where possible; deeply regrets the apparent failure of the overall EU strategy in the African continent as well as regional strategies, and especially the Sahel region, in upholding and promoting democratic principles, enhancing socio- economic development and ensuring security and stability; condemns the presence of private military companies and/or state sponsored proxies such as the Wagner Group which has played a destabilising role in the Sahel region and has supported various repressive regimes in an attempt to further the Russian Federation’s influence in Africa; considers that all coup d’états are the result of various, multi-dimensional causes which are not identical in each country and thus require careful considerations; is nevertheless appalled by expressions of strong anti-European sentiments in certain countries and calls on Member States and EEAS to consider increasing people to people through closer exchanges with the local populations and national authorities, more targeted strategic communications in local languages to counter-balance adverse effects and through honestly addressing their colonial past where necessary; call on the EEAS and the Member States to reconsider their overall policy towards Africa and to revise the EU’s strategy in the Sahel region, through an honest review of its approach in recent years, aimed at effectively counteracting post- colonial approaches to the region, introducing truly holistic approaches, addressing the long-term socio-economic development, security and climate needs of each country, and following close exchanges with the local population, civil society and democratically elected authorities and regional organisations where possible, adhering to the principle of “African solutions to African problems”; further calls on EEAS and the Member States to examine closely the mandate of all CSDP missions in Africa, including their potential termination if necessary, with the aim of providing achievable goals and milestones for each mission given the current political context, as well as exploring whether these missions could be amended in order to more effectively serve a new multi- dimensional and tailored EU strategy in the Sahel and Africa, as part of its integrated approach; deplores the continued lack of support from an important number of African countries in favour of a UN general assembly resolution condemning Russia, supporting Ukraine's territorial integrity, and calling for peace; takes note of the recent accession of Ethiopia to the BRICS;
Amendment 280 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 b (new)
Paragraph 12 b (new)
12b. Strongly condemns the recent pre- planned and unjustified attack of Azerbaijan against Nagorno-Karabakh which further exacerbates the major humanitarian crisis caused by Azerbaijan’s blockade of the Lachin Corridor, in violation of Azerbaijan’s commitments under the trilateral statement of 9 November 2022 and the corresponding ceasefire and of the legally binding orders of the International Court of Justice; deplores the loss of life and forcible evacuation of citizens and calls on Azerbaijan to protect the lives and respect the rights of the Armenian population of Nagorno-Karabakh; criticizes the fact that Azerbaijan’s offensive seriously undermines the ongoing peace negotiations between Armenia and Azerbaijan and urges Azerbaijan to return to a constructive participation at the negotiating table; calls on the Council to reconsider the EU’s relations with Azerbaijan, and consider imposing sanctions against responsible Azerbaijani authorities; welcomes the efforts made by the European Union Mission to Armenia to provide real-time, on the ground information on the situation and effectively contribute to the peace negotiations through confidence building-measures and impartial observations and analysis of incidents along the Armenia-Azerbaijan border; calls on Azerbaijan to agree to have such a civilian mission on their side of the border, including allowing access to EUMA to the Lachin Corridor;
Amendment 283 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 c (new)
Paragraph 12 c (new)
12c. Commends and underlines the importance of the work of the European Union Force in Bosnia and Herzegovina (Operation ALTHEA) in training and supporting the armed forces of BiH, contributing to a safe and secure environment and ensuring compliance with the Dayton Agreement; strongly condemns any divisive and/or secessionist rhetoric which further contribute to the vulnerability of the country and emphasizes that candidate country status is an opportunity and an obligation for BiH elected representatives to fulfil citizens’ expectations and concretely improve the daily life of ordinary people; calls for the further strengthening of EUFOR ALTHEA, particularly through the deployment of further troops and assets as well as the creation of a credible presence in the Brčko District;
Amendment 285 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 d (new)
Paragraph 12 d (new)
12d. Welcomes the Joint Communication of June 2023 on a New Outlook on the Climate and Security nexus, which outlines concrete actions to address the impacts of climate change and environmental degradation on security and European defence, including CSDP; stresses the need to move forward with its comprehensive implementation with a view to enhance operational effectiveness, including to deploy environmental advisors to all CSDP missions and operations by 2025 and to support Member States in addressing any gaps, barriers and incentives to prepare their armed forces for climate change, as called for in the Strategic Compass;
Amendment 287 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 e (new)
Paragraph 12 e (new)
Amendment 290 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Emphasises the importance of adequate, flexible and sustainable funding for all security and defence programs and initiatives, including the CFSP budget and the EPF; calls for a substantive increase of funding for the CFSP budget, including a dedicated CFSP budget line establishing a civilian support facility to provide partner countries with equipment and services to enhance their civilian capabilities; calls on the Member States to increase the resources allocated to security and defence in the next multiannua l financial framework review, in view of the depletion of Heading 5 and in light of the growing security needs of the Union which will require further initiatives such as EDIP and further funding for the EDF as proposed in STEP; invites the Member States to bring forward the re-assessment of the scope and definition of common costs to enhance solidarity and stimulate participation in military missions and operations, as well as exercise-related costs in line with the Strategic Compass; further calls on Member States to amend the EPF financing process to ensure adequate and sustainable support for partners, allies and CSDP operations;
Amendment 305 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Welcomes the increased budgets and investment in defence by EU Member States and institutions, and calls for their impact to be maximised in order to deliver the needed capabilities to Europe’s armed forces through increased joint procurement and joint investment in defence research and development; deplores the fact that in order to finance EDIRPA and ASAP, the Commission resorted to cannibalising existing resources dedicated to other security and defence initiatives or other programmes, thereby undermining other existing initiatives and emphasising the need to dedicate further resources to Heading 5 of the Multiannual Financial Framework; calls on the Member States and the Commission to dedicate further financial and human resources to EEAS to ensure it can effectively conduct its role as the EU’s diplomatic service in light of the highly contested geopolitical context and the increased demands on its limited capacities in recent years;
Amendment 315 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Considers that the European Defence Fund, regrettably still underfinanced, shows the added-value of EU-level action in European defence and recommends the extension of Commission proposals in all defence-related fields of EU policy in coordination with Member States and the VP/HR; ; calls for a further 1 billion euro budget increase to the EDF, in addition to the Commission’s suggested 1.5 billion euros, as part of the proposal for Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP); urges maximum consistency and coordination between various initiatives in the field of security and defence, such as CARD, EDIRPA, ASAP, PESCO and Military Mobility amongst others, to prevent overlaps, guarantee efficient public investments and address the critical capabilities gap;
Amendment 322 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Stresses that EDIRPA and ASAP can only be a first step towards improving the European technological and industrial base’s capacities to supply Member States with the products and quantities needed and should be complemented with further initiatives, including the envisaged long- term European Defence Investment Program (EDIP) for which adequate funding needs to be ensured as well as an effective regulatory framework aimed at encouraging innovation, boosting production and ensuring smarter and more efficient public investments; regrets that EDIP has still not been proposed by the Commission; calls on the Commission to draw on the EUMC's expertise in the definition of defence industries' priorities and the formulation of defence initiatives in order to ensure military coherence at industrial level;
Amendment 329 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 a (new)
Paragraph 17 a (new)
17a. Underlines the need to better coordinate the defence policies of Member States, activities falling under the CSDP, and the Union’s cooperation with NATO; considers, in this regard, that the establishment of a permanent Council of Defence Ministers within the framework of the Council of the European Union could be envisaged;
Amendment 341 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 a (new)
Paragraph 18 a (new)
18a. Welcomes the commitment by the EEAS and the Member States, in close consultation with Commission services, to set up a regular and structured civilian capability development process in 2024;
Amendment 342 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 b (new)
Paragraph 18 b (new)
18b. Highlights the importance of Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO) in improving the EU’s defence capabilities and welcomes the progress achieved so far through the PESCO initiative projects, such as in areas such as cyber defence, unmanned systems, medical services, and chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) surveillance, as well as the further progress achieved across projects in all military domains, as recorded by the PESCO Secretariat’s Annual Projects Progress Report; regrets, however, the fact that Member States are still not making full use of the PESCO framework and that progress on implementation still falls far short of expectations; calls on the VP/HR and the Member States to conduct continuous thorough review of the projects and their prospects, which should also include the possibility of merging, regrouping and even closing projects that lack sufficient progress and redirecting efforts towards a small number of priority projects intended to lead to concrete actions as stated in the Strategic Compass; strongly regrets that Parliament is not in a situation to exercise proper scrutiny of PESCO projects;
Amendment 347 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Highlights that Russia’s aggression against Ukraine is part of a wider strategy to undermine the rules-based international order; calls for the EU to enhance its capacities for responding to hybrid warfare, including the detection and response to Russia, and other state and non-state actors carrying out foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI) campaigns which challenge our interests, and values and security, including by spreading false-narratives about the EU or by targeting CSDP missions and operations in strategic areas;
Amendment 355 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Highlights that China has established a ‘no-limits friendship’ with Russia, that includes significant transfer of technology and military capabilities, and poses an increasing number of security challenges to the EU, especially in the fields of cyber and FIMI; stresses the need for the EU to strengthen the security and integrity of its critical infrastructures, supply chains and technology base, including through close monitoring of their ownership and control by actors linked to the Chinese governmentde- risking and promoting EU’s technological edge in critical sectors, including measures to restrict or exclude high-risk suppliers, especially actors linked to the Chinese government; expresses serious concerns about the danger artificial intelligence (AI) driven disinformation and information manipulation campaigns, including through the creation of fake websites and generation of fake images, poses to democratic processes, especially in the lead up to elections; calls on the Commission and EEAS to closely cooperate with the private sector, civil society as well as the academic and technical community in countering these malign influence campaigns and addressing the weaponisation of new technologies;
Amendment 360 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 a (new)
Paragraph 20 a (new)
20a. Recalls that dependencies on high- risk suppliers of critical products with digital elements pose a strategic risk that should be addressed at Union level; stresses the need to further strengthen the FDI-screening procedures with due- diligence standards to identify leverage by governments of states which would contravene the security and defence interests of the Union and its Member States as established in the framework of the CFSP pursuant to Title V of the TEU over investors in EU critical infrastructure, such as European ports and in undersea cables in the Baltic, Mediterranean as well as in the Arctic seas; underlines that this approach should apply equally to candidate and potential candidate countries; believes additional legislation is needed to effectively protect the European ICT supply chain security from risky vendors and protect against cyber-enabled intellectual property theft; calls for the creation of European framework aiming to closely regulate and set minimum standards and conditions relating to the export of intellectual property and technologies which are critical to the security and defence of the Union, including amongst others dual-use goods;
Amendment 373 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Calls for supplementary progress on further improving the EU Hybrid Toolbox, specifically addressing activities involving cyber-attacks and FIMI, and the revision of the implementing guidelines of the EU’s cyber diplomacy toolbox; welcomes the commitment set out in the Strategic Compass and new Civilian Compact to provide the necessary capabilities to enable civilian CSDP missions and operations to respond to hybrid attacks, including FIMI and cyber, by 2024, as well as develop a coherent and clear communication strategy; reiterates the need for ensuring the existence of the expertise and capacity for secure information and communications technologies for all CSDP missions and operations to communicate securely in theatre and with all EU institutions; calls on the EEAS and the Commission to increase its cooperation and coordination with other missions and operations from like-minded partners and organisations, including the United Nations Peacekeeping Operations, in countering FIMI operations in the field;
Amendment 386 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Welcomes the deployment of the EU CSDP Partnership Mission in the Republic of Moldova, the first ever CSDP civilian mission dedicated to strengthening the resilience of Moldova’s security sector in crisis management and countering hybrid threats; Underlines the importance of this innovative CSDP Mission and calls on the Member States to provide the expertise and capabilities necessary for the mission to support Moldova in the face of Russia’s use of hybrid warfare; calls on the EEAS to explore the creation of similar missions to other candidate and associate countries to the EU, aimed at increasing their resilience against hybrid threats, including cyber threats and FIMI;
Amendment 403 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 a (new)
Paragraph 23 a (new)
23a. Is concerned by the hybrid warfare activities of private military companies (PMCs) and state-sponsored proxies, such as the Wagner Group and other armed groups, militias and proxies to exert influence in several countries across the world; calls on the EEAS to create an initiative with like-minded partners to counter malign non-state and state- sponsored actor groups, such as Wagner; emphasises that the existing EU toolboxes should include responses, such as sanctions, to non-EU states financing or cooperating with private military companies in vulnerable regions;
Amendment 406 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 b (new)
Paragraph 23 b (new)
23b. Welcomes the findings and high level of ambition in the recommendations proposed in the EU space strategy in the area of security and defence; considers the safe, secure and autonomous access to space as a critical aspect of the EU’s security and defence, as demonstrated by its importance in the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine;
Amendment 407 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 c (new)
Paragraph 23 c (new)
23c. Demands that the Union takes effective measures to protect European critical infrastructure, valuable supply chains and democratic institutions from hybrid threats; calls on the EU to put in place effective monitoring and surveillance systems for critical infrastructure such as pipelines and fibre optics cables to ensure the prevention and rapid detection of attacks; welcomes the update of the EU Maritime Security Strategy, announced on 10 March 2023, and stresses the importance of stepping up the EU’s activities at sea, cooperating with partners, leading in maritime domain awareness, and protecting critical infrastructure; stresses the importance of the Coordinated Maritime Presence (CMPs) concept, enhancing the role of the EU as a global maritime security provider and its visibility in key maritime regions and looks forward to its expansion to other key areas across the globe;
Amendment 408 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 d (new)
Paragraph 23 d (new)
23d. Further calls on the Member States and the EEAS to systematically include financial and human resources, tools and training aimed at countering FIMI-related threats in all CSDP missions and operations as part of their broader mandate in host countries and their resilience against hybrid threats;
Amendment 409 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 e (new)
Paragraph 23 e (new)
23e. Calls on Member States, the EEAS and the European Commission to consider the creation of a well-resourced and independent structure tasked with identifying, analysing and documenting FIMI threats against the EU as a whole to increase situational awareness and threat intelligence sharing, and develop attribution capabilities and countermeasures in relation to FIMI; considers that this structure would serve as a reference point and specialised knowledge hub to facilitate and foster operational exchange between Member States’ authorities, EU institutions and EU agencies, as well as enabling the exchange of best practices with like- minded partners across the globe; stresses that the structure should clarify and enhance the role of the EEAS StratCom division and its taskforces as the strategic body of the EU’s diplomatic service and prevent the overlap of activities;
Amendment 410 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Recalls the need for enhanced intelligence sharing and information exchange among Member States and EU institutions, including Parliament, to improve situational awareness, counter security threats and better inform policy making; calls on the VP/HR and the Member States to reinforce the Single Intelligence Analysis Capacity (SIAC); reiterates the call for the deployment of intelligence capacities in all CSDP missions and operations which would provide information to the EU Intelligence and Analysis Centre (EU INTCEN), EUMS and Civilian Planning and Conduct Capability (CPCC); underlines the importance of secure communications for reliable intelligence and welcomes efforts to streamline security rules and regulations in this respect to better protect information, infrastructure and communication systems from foreign interference and attacks; calls on Member States to utilise the EU INTCEN as an effective intelligence-sharing body to share intelligence safely, formulate a common strategic culture and provide strategic information to better anticipate and respond to crises within and outside the EU;
Amendment 416 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24 a (new)
Paragraph 24 a (new)
24a. Stresses the urgent need to significantly increase investment in regional and global arms control, non- proliferation and disarmament, particularly in multilateral approaches; stresses the need for greater transparency and convergence at the national and European level on arms exports; points to the need for the Member States to respect the EU Common Position on Arms Exports and acknowledge their competences in their defence acquisition policies; calls on the Member States to fully comply with Common Position 2008/944/CFSP of 8 December 2008 defining common rules governing control of exports of military technology and equipment as amended by Council Decision (CFSP)2019/1560; acknowledges the Member States’ competences in their defence procurement policies;
Amendment 424 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24 b (new)
Paragraph 24 b (new)
24b. Reaffirms its full support for the EU and its Member States’ commitment to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) as the cornerstone of the nuclear non- proliferation and disarmament regime; insists on the need to ensure that the EU plays a strong and constructive role in developing and reinforcing global rules- based non-proliferation efforts and arms control and disarmament architecture;
Amendment 431 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
25. Emphasises that the EU must further develop its own capabilities in all domains to protect the sovereignty of all Member States while enhancing its security cooperation with partners across the globe; therefore, urges the European Council to move from unanimity to qualified majority voting in the field of CSDP where the Treaty on European Union allows it;
Amendment 458 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26 a (new)
Paragraph 26 a (new)
26a. Recalls that mainstreaming and operationalising gender perspectives in external relations and implementing the Women, Peace and Security agenda are long-standing priorities for the EU; therefore, insists on the importance of delivering on all commitments made, including those in the EU’s Gender Action Plan (GAP) III (2020-2024) and in the Strategic Compass, including by promoting gender equality and by systematically mainstreaming a gender perspective, based on gender analysis, in all civilian and military CSDP planning and actions; welcomes, in this context, the appointment of Gender Advisors in all CSDP Missions and Operations and the establishment of a network of gender focal points; calls for the full implementation of the commitments made in the new Civilian CSDP Compact, which includes significantly increasing women’s participation in civilian CSDP among international staff, with the aim to reach at least 40 percent representation while striving for gender parity; underlines nevertheless that more needs to be done to ensure gender equality and the full and meaningful participation of women in CSDP, especially in military missions;
Amendment 463 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26 b (new)
Paragraph 26 b (new)
Amendment 469 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26 c (new)
Paragraph 26 c (new)
26c. Welcomes the Joint Communication on an Action Plan on Military Mobility 2.0, as a key contribution to strengthening European security, as recognised in the Strategic Compass; highlights the accelerated adoption of dual-use transport infrastructure projects following Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine; and recalls the importance to ensure sufficient availability of financial resources to continue the project pipeline in the coming years;
Amendment 472 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26 d (new)
Paragraph 26 d (new)
26d. Welcomes the increasingly closer cooperation between the EU and the United States in the field of security and cooperation, as demonstrated by their joint efforts to support Ukraine as well as cooperation in international fora; notes the importance of greater collaboration in defence product production and procurement, including through equal market access for both defence industries; welcomes in this regard, efforts made by the EU to improve its own defence capabilities, taking greater responsibility for its own defence and reducing its dependency on one of its closest allies;
Amendment 474 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26 e (new)
Paragraph 26 e (new)
26e. Reiterates its calls for institutionalised security and defence cooperation with the United Kingdom, including through closer collaboration on information sharing, military mobility, mutual security and defence initiatives, crisis management, cybersecurity, hybrid threats, FIMI and our relationship with common strategic competitors;
Amendment 485 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27
Paragraph 27
27. Underlines the importance of developing security and defence dialogues with partners around the world, in particular in the Western Balkans and Eastern Partnership but also with key partners in strategic maritime areas such as those stretching from the Red Sea and Horn of Africa to the Indo-Pacific; reiterates the call for deeper cooperation with international organisations, such as, but not limited to, the UN, the African Union, and its peacekeeping missions in joint theatres, and the OSCE on security;
Amendment 494 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27 a (new)
Paragraph 27 a (new)
27a. Recognises that the Arctic region carries significant strategic and geopolitical importance due to its emerging maritime routes, rich natural resources and opportunities for economic development unlocked by global warming, while being increasingly contested; considers alarming the growing activities and interest by authoritarian regimes, including Russia and China, in the Arctic;
Amendment 499 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27 b (new)
Paragraph 27 b (new)
27b. Underlines the importance of preserving security, stability and cooperation in the Arctic; stresses that the region must remain free from military tensions and natural resource exploitation, while respecting the rights of indigenous peoples; reiterates the need to include the Union’s Arctic policy in the CSDP and engage in effective cooperation with NATO; calls for the Arctic to be addressed regularly within the Political and Security Committee and Council meetings;
Amendment 502 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27 c (new)
Paragraph 27 c (new)
27c. Reiterates the important role of young people and youth organisations in maintaining and promoting peace and security and calls on the EEAS to commit to more systematically integrating young people into its youth, peace and security (YPS) agenda;
Amendment 519 #
2023/2119(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29 a (new)
Paragraph 29 a (new)
29a. Calls on the EEAS to regularly and comprehensively report on the implementation of the Strategic Compass to the Subcommittee on Security and Defence;
Amendment 58 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 10 a (new)
Citation 10 a (new)
– having regard to the Enlargement Package adopted by the European Commission on 8 November 2023;
Amendment 58 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 10 a (new)
Citation 10 a (new)
– having regard to the Enlargement Package adopted by the European Commission on 8 November 2023;
Amendment 60 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 10 b (new)
Citation 10 b (new)
– having regard to the report on the final outcome of the Conference on the Future of Europe of 9 May 2022;
Amendment 60 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 10 b (new)
Citation 10 b (new)
– having regard to the report on the final outcome of the Conference on the Future of Europe of 9 May 2022;
Amendment 81 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine has given new geostrategic meaning to the enlargement of the European Union; whereas enlargement is a strategic geopolitical investment in the future, which can be mutually beneficial for both existing and future Member States if the proper conditions are met; whereas enlargement has proven to be the most successful EU foreign policy instrument and is a very effective tool for boosting the necessary reforms both within the EU and in applicant countries, helping to encourage democratic transformation; whereas enlargement is a particular opportunity for tackling the climate crisis and improving energy cooperation between current and future member states; whereas enlargement is thus a crucial tool to improve the daily lives of inhabitants of both the EU and applicant countries;
Amendment 81 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine has given new geostrategic meaning to the enlargement of the European Union; whereas enlargement is a strategic geopolitical investment in the future, which can be mutually beneficial for both existing and future Member States if the proper conditions are met; whereas enlargement has proven to be the most successful EU foreign policy instrument and is a very effective tool for boosting the necessary reforms both within the EU and in applicant countries, helping to encourage democratic transformation; whereas enlargement is a particular opportunity for tackling the climate crisis and improving energy cooperation between current and future member states; whereas enlargement is thus a crucial tool to improve the daily lives of inhabitants of both the EU and applicant countries;
Amendment 148 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas the role of the European Parliament should be strengthened throughout the entire enlargement process; whereas civil society organisations should be structurally involved in the process as well;
Amendment 148 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas the role of the European Parliament should be strengthened throughout the entire enlargement process; whereas civil society organisations should be structurally involved in the process as well;
Amendment 170 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H
Recital H
H. whereas under the current institutional framework, the EU already faces considerable challenges in crisis management and strategic decision- making; whereas it is clear that the EU institutions and decision-making mechanisms were not designed for a Union that could be composed of up to 37 Member States; whereas before the next enlargement takes place, significant pre- enlargement reforms are needed to guarantee that the EU is able to absorb new members and to promote their successful integration; whereas this implies significant changes in the EU’s institutional framework, including to decision-making procedures, and the possible introduction of differentiated integration solutions; whereas in order to achieve this, the EU should take full advantage of the flexibility afforded by the Treaty of Lisbon and consider the possibility of treaty change, including via adaptations introduced by the accession treaties or by a possible 'Treaty of reform and accession';
Amendment 170 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H
Recital H
H. whereas under the current institutional framework, the EU already faces considerable challenges in crisis management and strategic decision- making; whereas it is clear that the EU institutions and decision-making mechanisms were not designed for a Union that could be composed of up to 37 Member States; whereas before the next enlargement takes place, significant pre- enlargement reforms are needed to guarantee that the EU is able to absorb new members and to promote their successful integration; whereas this implies significant changes in the EU’s institutional framework, including to decision-making procedures, and the possible introduction of differentiated integration solutions; whereas in order to achieve this, the EU should take full advantage of the flexibility afforded by the Treaty of Lisbon and consider the possibility of treaty change, including via adaptations introduced by the accession treaties or by a possible 'Treaty of reform and accession';
Amendment 185 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. whereas the Union’s credibility and ability to act in a timely and effective manner depends on efficient decision- making, and even more so in an enlarged EU of 30 or more Member States; whereas efficient decision-making leading to timely and coordinated internal and external action is vital for safeguarding the EU’s interests and its global geopolitical leadership and credibility; whereas reform of the EU’s governance structures, with simplified decision-making procedures, must be discussed and adopted in parallel with the ongoing accession negotiations;
Amendment 185 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. whereas the Union’s credibility and ability to act in a timely and effective manner depends on efficient decision- making, and even more so in an enlarged EU of 30 or more Member States; whereas efficient decision-making leading to timely and coordinated internal and external action is vital for safeguarding the EU’s interests and its global geopolitical leadership and credibility; whereas reform of the EU’s governance structures, with simplified decision-making procedures, must be discussed and adopted in parallel with the ongoing accession negotiations;
Amendment 210 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K
Recital K
K. whereas enlargement is also a major challenge for EU’s financial sustainability, in particular regarding cohesion and, agriculture and foreign and security policies; whereas the current and the next multiannual financial frameworks should be strengthened considerably to enable EU enlargement; whereas this financial groundwork must be in place before enlargement takes place;
Amendment 210 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K
Recital K
K. whereas enlargement is also a major challenge for EU’s financial sustainability, in particular regarding cohesion and, agriculture and foreign and security policies; whereas the current and the next multiannual financial frameworks should be strengthened considerably to enable EU enlargement; whereas this financial groundwork must be in place before enlargement takes place;
Amendment 249 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Believes that enlargement is of the utmost strategic importance for the EU, and all the more so in the face of Russia’s war of aggression against UkraineCalls on the European Council, when evaluating the progress made individually by the candidate countries for EU accession and deciding on further steps, to take into account the background of Russia’s ongoing war of aggression against Ukraine that has significant consequences for Ukraine’s immediate neighbouring countries as well as for the stability, security and prosperity of the entire European continent and therefore requires a long-term political vision and bold decisions that reflect the strategic importance of European unity and therefore EU enlargement; stresses that an enhanced enlargement policy has become the strongest geopolitical tool at the EU’s disposal; points out that enlargement is a strategic investment in to share peace, security, and prosperity, as well as a driver for democracy and European values on the continent with its European neighbours as well as to strengthen democracy and the rule of law, human rights, including minority rights, fundamental freedoms and European values;
Amendment 249 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Believes that enlargement is of the utmost strategic importance for the EU, and all the more so in the face of Russia’s war of aggression against UkraineCalls on the European Council, when evaluating the progress made individually by the candidate countries for EU accession and deciding on further steps, to take into account the background of Russia’s ongoing war of aggression against Ukraine that has significant consequences for Ukraine’s immediate neighbouring countries as well as for the stability, security and prosperity of the entire European continent and therefore requires a long-term political vision and bold decisions that reflect the strategic importance of European unity and therefore EU enlargement; stresses that an enhanced enlargement policy has become the strongest geopolitical tool at the EU’s disposal; points out that enlargement is a strategic investment in to share peace, security, and prosperity, as well as a driver for democracy and European values on the continent with its European neighbours as well as to strengthen democracy and the rule of law, human rights, including minority rights, fundamental freedoms and European values;
Amendment 286 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Underlines that accession to the EU must always be a merit-based procedure and that each applicant must be assessed on their own merit in fulfilling the Copenhagen criteria and therefore in ensuring full respect for human rights, democracy and the rule of law; stresses that while positive outcomes should be sought as quickly as possible, there should be no fast-track or fixed deadlines for membership; underscores that there can be no short-cuts on fundamental values; points out that alignment with the common foreign and security policy is also a way of showing full adherence to the EU’s fundamental principles and an important indicator for sustainable future membership and only significant progress on EU-related reforms can be a reason to resume accession negotiations with countries where the accession process is frozen, otherwise stalled or where backsliding took place; stresses the need to establish clear deadlines for concluding negotiations with the accession countries by the end of the current decade at the latest; points out that alignment with the common foreign and security policy is also a way of showing full adherence to the EU’s fundamental principles and an important indicator for sustainable future membership; urges all candidate and potential candidate countries to prioritize strict alignment with the EU’s common foreign and security policy and reiterates that accession can only proceed once a country aligns with EU sanctions against Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine;
Amendment 286 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Underlines that accession to the EU must always be a merit-based procedure and that each applicant must be assessed on their own merit in fulfilling the Copenhagen criteria and therefore in ensuring full respect for human rights, democracy and the rule of law; stresses that while positive outcomes should be sought as quickly as possible, there should be no fast-track or fixed deadlines for membership; underscores that there can be no short-cuts on fundamental values; points out that alignment with the common foreign and security policy is also a way of showing full adherence to the EU’s fundamental principles and an important indicator for sustainable future membership and only significant progress on EU-related reforms can be a reason to resume accession negotiations with countries where the accession process is frozen, otherwise stalled or where backsliding took place; stresses the need to establish clear deadlines for concluding negotiations with the accession countries by the end of the current decade at the latest; points out that alignment with the common foreign and security policy is also a way of showing full adherence to the EU’s fundamental principles and an important indicator for sustainable future membership; urges all candidate and potential candidate countries to prioritize strict alignment with the EU’s common foreign and security policy and reiterates that accession can only proceed once a country aligns with EU sanctions against Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine;
Amendment 305 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Calls for a robust monitoring mechanism for the reforms and progress made by the candidate countries; urges, in particular, the setting up of a specific and effective monitoring mechanism for protecting fundamental values and the financial interests of the Union in the context of accession procedures; reiterates in this regard its calls to include candidate countries in the EU rule of law mechanism and its annual reporting exercise, automatically activating pre-accession cooperation and verification mechanisms, offering positive conditionality in the form of access to EU policies or triggering negative conditionality in the form of the suspension of accession negotiations and pre-accession funding, in particular by making the relevant provisions of Regulation (EU) 2021/1529 on IPA III swiftly and fully operational, and enabling the reopening of the negotiation chapters under reversibility clauses, as well as by closely involving civil society in the process;
Amendment 305 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Calls for a robust monitoring mechanism for the reforms and progress made by the candidate countries; urges, in particular, the setting up of a specific and effective monitoring mechanism for protecting fundamental values and the financial interests of the Union in the context of accession procedures; reiterates in this regard its calls to include candidate countries in the EU rule of law mechanism and its annual reporting exercise, automatically activating pre-accession cooperation and verification mechanisms, offering positive conditionality in the form of access to EU policies or triggering negative conditionality in the form of the suspension of accession negotiations and pre-accession funding, in particular by making the relevant provisions of Regulation (EU) 2021/1529 on IPA III swiftly and fully operational, and enabling the reopening of the negotiation chapters under reversibility clauses, as well as by closely involving civil society in the process;
Amendment 308 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. CEmphasizes the absolute priority to strengthen the rule of law which has substantially gained in importance in the EU accession process and remains one of the most important conditions for EU membership to ensure that EU enlargement strengthens and does not weaken the Union and its Single Market; calls for a robust monitoring mechanism for the reforms and progress made by the candidate countries; urges, in particular, the setting up of a specific and effective monitoring mechanism for protecting fundamental values and the financial interests of the Union in the context of accession procedures; reiterates in this regard its calls to include candidate countries in the EU rule of law mechanism and its annual reporting exercise, automatically activating pre-accession cooperation and verification mechanisms;
Amendment 308 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. CEmphasizes the absolute priority to strengthen the rule of law which has substantially gained in importance in the EU accession process and remains one of the most important conditions for EU membership to ensure that EU enlargement strengthens and does not weaken the Union and its Single Market; calls for a robust monitoring mechanism for the reforms and progress made by the candidate countries; urges, in particular, the setting up of a specific and effective monitoring mechanism for protecting fundamental values and the financial interests of the Union in the context of accession procedures; reiterates in this regard its calls to include candidate countries in the EU rule of law mechanism and its annual reporting exercise, automatically activating pre-accession cooperation and verification mechanisms;
Amendment 310 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Calls for a robust monitoring mechanism for the reforms and progress made by the candidate countries; urges, in particular, the setting up of a specific and effective monitoring mechanism for protecting fundamental values and the financial interests of the Union in the context of accession procedures; reiterates in this regard its calls to include candidate countries in the EU rule of law mechanism and its annual reporting exercise, automatically activating pre-accession cooperation and verification mechanisms; calls for exploring avenues for further strengthening protection of the rule of law and the EU’s democratic values against backsliding for both new and existing Member States in the context of Treaty reform;
Amendment 310 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Calls for a robust monitoring mechanism for the reforms and progress made by the candidate countries; urges, in particular, the setting up of a specific and effective monitoring mechanism for protecting fundamental values and the financial interests of the Union in the context of accession procedures; reiterates in this regard its calls to include candidate countries in the EU rule of law mechanism and its annual reporting exercise, automatically activating pre-accession cooperation and verification mechanisms; calls for exploring avenues for further strengthening protection of the rule of law and the EU’s democratic values against backsliding for both new and existing Member States in the context of Treaty reform;
Amendment 331 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Considers that there is a need for stronger parliamentary oversight of the EU’s enlargement policy; insists on strengthening the role of Parliament throughout the entire accession process, including allowing it to scrutinise fully the progress made by the candidate countries across policy fields; invites to consider appointing an EU chief negotiator to carry out negotiations under a broad negotiating mandate, who would also be accountable to the European Parliament; underlines that regular dialogue and cooperation between the European Parliament and the national parliaments of candidate countries should be encouraged;
Amendment 331 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Considers that there is a need for stronger parliamentary oversight of the EU’s enlargement policy; insists on strengthening the role of Parliament throughout the entire accession process, including allowing it to scrutinise fully the progress made by the candidate countries across policy fields; invites to consider appointing an EU chief negotiator to carry out negotiations under a broad negotiating mandate, who would also be accountable to the European Parliament; underlines that regular dialogue and cooperation between the European Parliament and the national parliaments of candidate countries should be encouraged;
Amendment 343 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Believes that the challenge of a bigger Union requires an enhanced enlargement policy putting in place a clear incremental pathway towards EU membership, including gradual integration into common policies, initiatives and the single market, access to EU funds in the respective areas, enabling citizens to reap the benefits of accession throughout the process and not only upon its completion; notes that this pathway should be accompanied by increased technical and conditional financial assistance with a special focus on the implementation and enforcement of laws under negotiating chapters 23, 24, 30 and 31; stresses that a dedicated and separate DG for Enlargement is necessary; invites the Commission to present detailed proposals on the incremental accession methodology; underlines that there will be no alternatives to substitute enlargement and that the phasing-in of candidate countries into selected policy areas is by no means an alternative to fully-fledged membership;
Amendment 343 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Believes that the challenge of a bigger Union requires an enhanced enlargement policy putting in place a clear incremental pathway towards EU membership, including gradual integration into common policies, initiatives and the single market, access to EU funds in the respective areas, enabling citizens to reap the benefits of accession throughout the process and not only upon its completion; notes that this pathway should be accompanied by increased technical and conditional financial assistance with a special focus on the implementation and enforcement of laws under negotiating chapters 23, 24, 30 and 31; stresses that a dedicated and separate DG for Enlargement is necessary; invites the Commission to present detailed proposals on the incremental accession methodology; underlines that there will be no alternatives to substitute enlargement and that the phasing-in of candidate countries into selected policy areas is by no means an alternative to fully-fledged membership;
Amendment 357 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Stresses that European institutional and financial reforms toshould increase the EU's ability to act, promote good governance, functionality and sustainability; notes that reforms are needed to ensurreinforce the EU’s and its institutions' capacity to absorb new members and to promote their successful integration;
Amendment 357 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Stresses that European institutional and financial reforms toshould increase the EU's ability to act, promote good governance, functionality and sustainability; notes that reforms are needed to ensurreinforce the EU’s and its institutions' capacity to absorb new members and to promote their successful integration;
Amendment 366 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Points out that European institutional reforms must include simplified decision-making procedures, moving away from unanimity and replacing it with qualified majority voting provisions in areas such as the protection of democracy, human rights and the rule of law, sanctions and relevant foreign policy decision, the climate crisis and ecological transition, tax measures and foreign and security policy decisions, including through the introduction of qualified majority voting in areas relevant to the accession process, and ensuring the effective functioning of an enlarged union as a whole and abolishing, in particular, the requirement for unanimity when deciding on the start of the negotiation process as well as the opening and closing of individual negotiating clusters and chapters;
Amendment 366 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Points out that European institutional reforms must include simplified decision-making procedures, moving away from unanimity and replacing it with qualified majority voting provisions in areas such as the protection of democracy, human rights and the rule of law, sanctions and relevant foreign policy decision, the climate crisis and ecological transition, tax measures and foreign and security policy decisions, including through the introduction of qualified majority voting in areas relevant to the accession process, and ensuring the effective functioning of an enlarged union as a whole and abolishing, in particular, the requirement for unanimity when deciding on the start of the negotiation process as well as the opening and closing of individual negotiating clusters and chapters;
Amendment 380 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 a (new)
Paragraph 9 a (new)
9 a. Points out that a parallel process of widening and deepening the EU will have a profound effect on a wide area of EU policies; notes that a simplified decision-making process for potential other areas will be of benefit to the overall governability of the EU as well;
Amendment 380 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 a (new)
Paragraph 9 a (new)
9 a. Points out that a parallel process of widening and deepening the EU will have a profound effect on a wide area of EU policies; notes that a simplified decision-making process for potential other areas will be of benefit to the overall governability of the EU as well;
Amendment 385 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Calls for the mechanism to protect the rule of law and the EU’s fundamental principles and values, and the monitoring capacity to ensure compliance, to be strengthened ahead of the next enlargement; stresses the need for a broader rule of law conditionality mechanism covering all of the Union’s fundamental values as defined in Art 2 TEU;
Amendment 385 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Calls for the mechanism to protect the rule of law and the EU’s fundamental principles and values, and the monitoring capacity to ensure compliance, to be strengthened ahead of the next enlargement; stresses the need for a broader rule of law conditionality mechanism covering all of the Union’s fundamental values as defined in Art 2 TEU;
Amendment 420 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Notes that institutional pre- enlargement reforms must also address the implications of enlargement on the composition of Parliament, including considering the possibility of observer Members of European Parliament; recalls that the European Parliament is already one of the largest parliaments in the world and underlines that in any case it must remain at a workable scale; points out, however, that a reasonable increase in the size of Parliament cannot be ruled out in order to ensure sufficient democratic representativeness; insists on a new system for seat allocation based on a permanent mathematical formula;
Amendment 420 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Notes that institutional pre- enlargement reforms must also address the implications of enlargement on the composition of Parliament, including considering the possibility of observer Members of European Parliament; recalls that the European Parliament is already one of the largest parliaments in the world and underlines that in any case it must remain at a workable scale; points out, however, that a reasonable increase in the size of Parliament cannot be ruled out in order to ensure sufficient democratic representativeness; insists on a new system for seat allocation based on a permanent mathematical formula;
Amendment 432 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Points out that the functioning of the Council should also be reviewed in view of enlargement, in particular the system of rotating presidencies of the Council of the European Union; notes that the calculation of qualified majority voting thresholds should also be reconsidered; urges the Council to overcome the current deadlock in the Article 7 TEU procedure and to replace unanimity minus 1 by a majority of four-fifths of the Member States in relation to this procedure in the Council;
Amendment 432 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Points out that the functioning of the Council should also be reviewed in view of enlargement, in particular the system of rotating presidencies of the Council of the European Union; notes that the calculation of qualified majority voting thresholds should also be reconsidered; urges the Council to overcome the current deadlock in the Article 7 TEU procedure and to replace unanimity minus 1 by a majority of four-fifths of the Member States in relation to this procedure in the Council;
Amendment 450 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Stresses that enlargement is a major financial challenge for the EU, in particular regarding cohesion and agriculture policies; point out that this challenge cannot be met without a larger EU budget and sufficient own resources or potential co-financing instruments; notes that this would be an opportunity to restructure the EU budget, look at its core priorities and let the most financially strong contribute to a newly reformed EU; notes that this adds to growing demands on EU funding in the fields of financial stability, health, energy, decarbonisation, digital, research and defence and security; underlines that such financial reforms must be discussed in parallel with the ongoing accession negotiations and adopted before enlargement takes place; defends its position that the current and future multiannual financial frameworks should be strengthened considerably to enable EU enlargement, and that this financial groundwork must be in place before enlargement takes place;
Amendment 450 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Stresses that enlargement is a major financial challenge for the EU, in particular regarding cohesion and agriculture policies; point out that this challenge cannot be met without a larger EU budget and sufficient own resources or potential co-financing instruments; notes that this would be an opportunity to restructure the EU budget, look at its core priorities and let the most financially strong contribute to a newly reformed EU; notes that this adds to growing demands on EU funding in the fields of financial stability, health, energy, decarbonisation, digital, research and defence and security; underlines that such financial reforms must be discussed in parallel with the ongoing accession negotiations and adopted before enlargement takes place; defends its position that the current and future multiannual financial frameworks should be strengthened considerably to enable EU enlargement, and that this financial groundwork must be in place before enlargement takes place;
Amendment 474 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 a (new)
Paragraph 17 a (new)
17 a. Deplores the use of unresolved bilateral and regional disputes to block or considerably delay candidate countries’ accession processes and adopt an official mechanism for the resolution and arbitration of these disputes to support their resolution separately from the accession to the EU, as they can hinder the implementation of European policies and weaken the EU’s regional and global influence; recalls that candidate countries should be assessed on the basis of their own merit in complying with the objective criteria for accession, including the implementation of EU-related reforms as well as the policy alignment with the CFSP, such as on positions and restrictive measures taken following the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine;
Amendment 474 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 a (new)
Paragraph 17 a (new)
17 a. Deplores the use of unresolved bilateral and regional disputes to block or considerably delay candidate countries’ accession processes and adopt an official mechanism for the resolution and arbitration of these disputes to support their resolution separately from the accession to the EU, as they can hinder the implementation of European policies and weaken the EU’s regional and global influence; recalls that candidate countries should be assessed on the basis of their own merit in complying with the objective criteria for accession, including the implementation of EU-related reforms as well as the policy alignment with the CFSP, such as on positions and restrictive measures taken following the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine;
Amendment 479 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 a (new)
Paragraph 18 a (new)
18 a. Calls to improve the consistency, efficiency and transparency of pre- accession assistance, clearly reflecting the priorities in the fundamental areas in the allocation of IPA III funding; calls in particular to introduce stricter and enforcable accountability with regard to the spending of such funding; calls also to improve the visibility of EU funding and the tangible results of it in the enlargement countries;
Amendment 479 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 a (new)
Paragraph 18 a (new)
18 a. Calls to improve the consistency, efficiency and transparency of pre- accession assistance, clearly reflecting the priorities in the fundamental areas in the allocation of IPA III funding; calls in particular to introduce stricter and enforcable accountability with regard to the spending of such funding; calls also to improve the visibility of EU funding and the tangible results of it in the enlargement countries;
Amendment 481 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 b (new)
Paragraph 18 b (new)
18 b. Calls to strategically apply targeted conditionality based on clear progress benchmarks, rewarding reforms and sanctioning regression or a persistent lack of progress;
Amendment 481 #
2023/2114(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 b (new)
Paragraph 18 b (new)
18 b. Calls to strategically apply targeted conditionality based on clear progress benchmarks, rewarding reforms and sanctioning regression or a persistent lack of progress;
Amendment 5 #
2023/2048(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas rural areas face the urgent challenges of demographic decline and ageing, especially affecting EU farming populations, along with rural abandonment, lack of access to infrastructure, healthcare, education and services, low incomes and fewer job opportunities;
Amendment 10 #
2023/2048(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas the digital and green transitions offer opportunities for stronger, connected, resilient, innovative and prosperous rural areas in the long term, however, despite recent improvements in high-speed broadband connectivity, only 59% of households in rural regions have access to broadband, compared to 87% of the households in the EU;
Amendment 14 #
2023/2048(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital C a (new)
Recital C a (new)
Ca. whereas the Long-term Vision for the EU's Rural Areas calls to improve rural quality of life, achieve balanced territorial development and stimulate economic growth in rural areas;
Amendment 16 #
2023/2048(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital C b (new)
Recital C b (new)
Cb. whereas the role and importance of rural areas is often under-appreciated, insufficiently rewarded and funded;
Amendment 17 #
2023/2048(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital C c (new)
Recital C c (new)
Cc. whereas the diversity of EU’s rural areas calls for locally designed responses and solutions corresponding to each territory’s specific needs and possibilities and strategies should address rural areas according to their individual characteristics and in relation to their environment, using, among other tools, the rural proofing mechanism;
Amendment 18 #
2023/2048(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital C d (new)
Recital C d (new)
Cd. whereas rural communities are exposed to greater damages from climate change, more frequent adverse climate events such as storms, floods and droughts, and the consequences of biodiversity loss, and experience greater costs associated with climate transition;
Amendment 19 #
2023/2048(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital C e (new)
Recital C e (new)
Ce. whereas sustainable farming and forestry management, that includes environmental, economic and social sustainability, provided decent work and livelihoods, ecological systems and biodiversity and also enhances climate and risk resilience;
Amendment 21 #
2023/2048(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Recalls that small, medium and family farms are the backbone of EU rural areas, providing food security and ecosystem services for European citizens;
Amendment 39 #
2023/2048(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Highlights the role that agriculture plays in achieving the Union objectives of food security, sustainable growth, social inclusion, and combating climate change, while helping to diversify agricultural production, preserve biodiversity and develop local economies;
Amendment 55 #
2023/2048(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Emphasises the role of e-services, mobile service solutions, private-public partnerships, social enterprises, cultural and creative industries; accessibility of education and healthcare; as well as cooperatives to help provide necessary services for rural areas and act as a key factor for rural socio-economic development;
Amendment 59 #
2023/2048(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 b (new)
Paragraph 5 b (new)
5b. Calls for improvement of the level of digital skills and the availability and affordability of adequate digital infrastructure, and the capacities to effectively deploy digital technologies, such as digital service platforms in rural areas;
Amendment 62 #
2023/2048(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 c (new)
Paragraph 5 c (new)
5c. Calls for development of partnerships in all economic activities in rural areas, between businesses of all sectors, local authorities, researchers and services based on innovation, knowledge sharing and cooperation;
Amendment 65 #
2023/2048(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 d (new)
Paragraph 5 d (new)
5d. Calls for more effort in enabling rural residents to take active part in policy and decision-making processes, involving a broad range of stakeholders at all levels of governance to develop tailor-made, place-based and integrated policy solutions and investments
Amendment 67 #
2023/2048(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 e (new)
Paragraph 5 e (new)
5e. Calls for improving affordable public transport services and infrastructure such as railways, roads, charging and refuelling stations to support e-mobility solutions;
Amendment 69 #
2023/2048(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 f (new)
Paragraph 5 f (new)
5f. Emphasises the essential economic role played by agriculture, forestry and fisheries, calls for further development of short supply chains, quality schemes, producer organisations and cooperatives that contribute to increasing the sustainability of European food production;
Amendment 70 #
2023/2048(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 g (new)
Paragraph 5 g (new)
5g. Emphasises that generational renewal is the key for social, economic and environmental sustainability of rural areas and EU food autonomy and the future of agriculture and thus must remain a high priority in territorial development plans and strategies, stresses the need to account for the needs of small and medium sized farmers, and especially focus at attracting young farmers, preventing land abandonment and facilitating land access and access to credit;
Amendment 71 #
2023/2048(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 h (new)
Paragraph 5 h (new)
5h. Stresses the significance of circular and bio-economy principles, as well as their application within the agricultural sector, in contributing to the realization of the objectives set out in the European Green Deal; encourages the enhancement of understanding and the implementation of circular and bio- economy principles within the European agriculture and food system.
Amendment 16 #
2023/2029(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas the Instrument’s external investment framework brings together blended finance and guarantees under the European Fund for Sustainable Development Plus (EFSD+) External Action Guarantee (EAG), which is to be implemented by eligible partners in an open and collaborative approach, with a specific role for the European Investment Bank (EIB); whereas the EFSD+ considerably expands the financial envelope of its predecessor, the EFSD, and will be able to guarantee operations up to EUR 53.4 billion through EAG; whereas the ‘policy first’ principle must result in a cooperation driven by policy objectives and ensure that the European financial architecture for development is aligned in this regard; proposes for example to refine the broad and vague MSMEs window into sub-windows that should be dedicated to individual entrepreneurs and cooperatives;
Amendment 22 #
2023/2029(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
Ba. whereas inequalities are amongst the root causes of instability, insecurity and violence;
Amendment 23 #
2023/2029(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B b (new)
Recital B b (new)
Bb. whereas the promotion of human rights is a cornerstone of the EU’s external action;
Amendment 24 #
2023/2029(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B c (new)
Recital B c (new)
Bc. whereas human development remains a key area for the EU’s external and development policies; whereas investments in health care, education, nutrition and social protection are paramount to ensure universal access to these services which constitute basic human rights;
Amendment 55 #
2023/2029(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Welcomes the consolidation of most of the EU’s external action in a single Instrument, gradually streamlining and harmonising the numerous previous instruments; is of the opinion, however, that although this simplification has enhanced flexibility and efficiency, it has not been accompanied by sufficient levels of effective accountability; underlines in this regard that measures can only be considered effective when this can be proven by clear and comparable monitoring and evaluation mechanisms; reminds of the findings of the 2023 ECA special report on programming of the Instrument, which points out that baseline and target indicators as well as data sources in MIPs where fragmented or missing; calls on the Commission to make the use of ‘Global Europe Results Framework’ (GERF) indicators compulsory for all measures throughout the entire programming cycle of MIPs, that is planning, implementation and reporting of results and for considerably increasing EU delegations capacities; emphasises that the Instrument should provide an efficient, effective, coherent and inclusive implementation, underpinned by the ‘policy first’ principle and in line with the strategic interests and values of the EU; reiterates its call on the Commission to publish, at least biannually, an aid effectiveness progress report, that consistently includes standardized, comprehensible and comparable indicators, covering joint planning, joint implementation and joint results frameworks; calls on the Commission to present this progress report to Parliament;
Amendment 94 #
2023/2029(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Stresses the importance of meeting all the Instrument’s spending targets and calls for detailed information on the progress made in this regard; regrets, in particular, the substantial deficit in reaching the Instrument’s climate target and the biodiversity target; recalls that biodiversity is a crucial factor in combatting climate change; calls for a detailed plan outlining how the Commission intends to meet the climatespending targets by the end of the MFF;
Amendment 98 #
2023/2029(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Reaffirms the commitment set out in the Instrument to eradicating poverty, fighting inequalities and discrimination and promoting human development; recalls that actions under the Instrument are expected to contribute at least 20 % of the ODA funded under the Instrument to social inclusion and human development; underlines that the EFSD+ should aim to support investments as a means of contributing to the achievement of the SDGs by fostering sustainable and inclusive economic, environmental and social development; calls in this regard for the full implementation of the EU Gender Action Plan III, as well as the operationalisation of the EU Global Health Strategy and the Youth Action Plan in EU external action; underlines the need to enhance the Union’s efforts to promote and protect human rights in its external action, in view of the mid-term review of the implementation of the EU Action Plan on Human Rights and Democracy;
Amendment 103 #
2023/2029(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Reaffirms the commitment set out in the Instrument to eradicating poverty, fighting inequalities and discrimination and promoting human development; emphasises the importance of following a holistic approach to human security as a new guiding paradigm;
Amendment 109 #
2023/2029(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10a. Underlines the importance of guaranteeing an effective needs-based and people-centred approach in the EU’s external action; highlights the essential role that local partners and civil society should have in the design, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of the programmes;
Amendment 142 #
2023/2029(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Notes the specific role played by the EIB in the European financial architecture for development, as set out in Article 209 of the TFEU and in Article 36 of the Regulation establishing the Instrument, and acknowledges the EIB’s potential to mobilise additional funding that contributes to the Instrument’s objectives; welcomes the creation of EIB Global, which has been operational since 1 January 2022 and sets out to increase the bank’s presence and expertise in developing countries; notes that, since the setting up of the new development branch, the EIB Global has made record use of the dedicated investment window provided by the Instrument, delivering over EUR 10 billion in 2022, notably in support of Ukraine and the Global Gateway; recalls the importance of the EU budget as the sole guarantor for the EIB’s to provide loans outside the EU in support of EU policies; calls for an increase in the guarantees granted to the EIB by the EU budget in order to allow the EU bank to continue to deliver vital public and private sector operations in Ukraine and to expand its activities in the Global South; calls on the EIB to use its position to mobilise investments for sustainable development in line with the purpose and criteria established by the EFSD+; highlights the important role of the EIB in partnering with the Commission to deliver EUR 100 billion of the 300 billion commitment under the Global Gateway strategy; calls on the EIB to continue to strengthen its presence in the field by building on the current approach of co- location within EU delegations, while further exploiting possible synergies with the EBRD and other European DFIs; underlines that EU investment projects should be subject to evaluation, monitoring and reporting, in order to avoid unintended negative impacts; in this regard, calls on the Commission, together with EIB, EBRD and other European DFIs to develop standardised procedures, including ex ante and ex post evaluations and by applying the Commission’s Result Management Framework (ReMF); urges the Commission to publish this Framework and to make sure that DFIs using their own indicators to clearly define them and explain their application and comparability with the ReMF; calls for the introduction of standardised complaint mechanisms for all DFIs that are sufficiently staffed and resourced and easily accessible; calls on the Commission to follow-up environmental, social and governance (ESG) standards of all investment projects; encourages the EIB to continue to actively engage in developing planning, monitoring and evaluation at country level, hand in hand with the EU delegations and through co- financing with development finance institutions; calls for stronger coordination between the Commission and the EEAS and EU delegations to facilitate discussions and cooperation with relevant actors on the ground in order to identify projects which best meet development effectiveness objectives;
Amendment 164 #
2023/2029(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Welcomes the Team Europe approach and its aim of increasing the coherence, impact and visibility of EU development projects, and calls for more joint actions with the Member States, in particular Team Europe Initiatives (TEIs); recalls however that individual Member States’ contributions have to be indicated in MIPs in order to ensure certainty over the Member States’ financial support; calls on the Commission to review the effectiveness of the approach including Member States’ compliance, and to inform Parliament of its findings;
Amendment 167 #
2023/2029(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Welcomes the Team Europe approach and its aim of increasing the coherence, impact and visibility of EU development projects, and calls for more joint actions with the Member States, in particular Team Europe Initiatives (TEIs); calls on the Commission to review the effectiveness of the approach and to inform Parliament of its findings; calls on the Commission to clarify the roles surrounding the Team Europe approach and to propose a mechanism that increases the transparency and democratic scrutiny of the initiative;
Amendment 176 #
2023/2029(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Welcomes the Global Gateway strategy as a concerted EU response to global challenges; regrets, however, the lack of transparency and of a regulatory framework for the strategy’s governance and implementation within the Instrument’s objectives and priorities; is of the opinion that in times of new geostrategic challenges, EU foreign and security policy and development cooperation actors have to better coordinate and cooperate in the framework of the Global Gateway in order to give weight to EU positions and values in a new multilateral world order and to show leadership in international initiatives, such as G7 Partnership for Global Infrastructure Investment (PGII); stresses that massive investments are required in both hard and soft infrastructure in developing countries, from digital, transport and energy networks to health, education and food systems; regrets, however, the lack of transparency and of a regulatory framework for the strategy’s governance and implementation within the Instrument’s objectives and priorities; stresses the need for adequate parliamentary involvement and scrutiny as well as better staffed and resourced EU delegations and consultation with the business sector and CSOs through a comprehensible and transparent governance framework that would quickly deliver a boost of investment and visibility of EU in partner countries at the backdrop of a complex geopolitical context; Underlines that the joint communication of the Global Gateway leaves room for interpretation about the relationship of its different bodies that remains largely informal; regrets the limited access of information in particular from the steering committee; calls on the Commission to update the joint communication and to provide a clear definition of what a global gateway project is and how to distinguish it from other investment projects; Calls for clarity as to how the EU financial regulation and public procurement rules apply in the funding of Global Gateway for the joint projects in partner developing countries; calls to ensure that the prerogative is always given to the EU and local partner or like-minded countries companies; regrets the lack of clarity on the financing for the Global Gateway strategy and recalls that such new initiatives should be financed through fresh appropriations and the related upward revision of the Heading 6 ceiling;
Amendment 188 #
2023/2029(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Recalls Parliament’s functions of political control and consultation and stresses the role of the high-level geopolitical dialogue in providing general orientations for the implementation of the Instrument; powers of political and budgetary control and consultation; underlines that the Parliament needs full and timely access to documents and has to be able to monitor the impact and progress of projects, which is, why it needs full access to standardised baseline and target indicators as well as data sources; regrets that decision- making processes in particular in the framework of the Global Gateway are still undefined and not fully transparent; points out that the overlap of financial instruments, for example in the context of guarantees, makes scrutiny difficult; calls on the Commission to provide after consultations with the Parliament a comprehensible, clear and complete overview in a single document about the financial instruments their relations with each other and the different actors as well as a complete and precise overview about grants and guarantees and how they are covered; furthermore, calls on the Commission to provide regular information about the Global Gateway steering group and to make the Result Management Framework (ReMF) fully available; calls for an oversight of the complaint mechanisms and for regular information about complaints; calls on the Parliament to establish a sufficiently staffed and resourced parliamentary oversight body for the Instrument including EFSD+ and Global Gateway projects and calls on the Commission to provide a consistent inter-institutional information flow with the European Parliament being kept informed about investment projects including Global Gateway projects; is of the opinion that the format of the high-level geopolitical dialogue alone cannot fully provide general orientations for the implementation of the Instrument; reiterates that Parliament’s positions need to be fully taken into consideration; also reiterates that European Parliament resolutions constitute part of the overall policy framework for the implementation of the Instrument;
Amendment 233 #
2023/2029(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28 a (new)
Paragraph 28 a (new)
Amendment 2 #
2023/2001(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas the EU-Canada Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) is one of the most inclusive and sustainable trade deals ever signed; whereas substantial increase in trade flows and positive trends in cooperation between the two parties have been registered following its entry into application;
Amendment 10 #
2023/2001(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital A a (new)
Recital A a (new)
Aa. whereas a number of Member States have not ratified the Agreement since its entry into application six years ago;
Amendment 12 #
2023/2001(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes with satisfaction the considerable increase in bilateral trade in food and agricultural products between the EU and Canada and the 26 % increase in exports of EU agricultural products to Canada since the start of the provisional application of CETA; welcomes the significant increase in the number of the Union’s micro-, small and medium-sized enterprises exporting to Canada, as well as the increase in the value of exported products;
Amendment 16 #
2023/2001(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Stresses that, in the implementation of CETA and all other EU trade agreements, due account must be taken of respect for sustainable agricultural production, reciprocity and the maintenance of high production standards, in particular sanitary and phytosanitary standards, as laid down in Union law;
Amendment 17 #
2023/2001(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 b (new)
Paragraph 1 b (new)
1b. Underlines the importance of effective cooperation between the agricultural sectors of the Union and Canada in contributing to the mitigation of climate change and to environmental protection, including through the exchange of information on innovative farming practices, while limiting the administrative burden on producers;
Amendment 20 #
2023/2001(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Highlights the importance of recognising the system of geographical indications (GIs) as a key component of the agreement; underlines the need for further effective enforcement of GI protection for EU rights holders in Canada, also through better communication to stakeholders on CETA's GI commitments, in particular on the GI protection regime and on its enforcement;
Amendment 24 #
2023/2001(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Calls on the Commission to ensure that, in order to maintain balanced market conditions, Canada does not use measures favouring local producers, such as differential taxes and mark ups, or measures that allow for direct delivery exclusively by local producers;
Amendment 26 #
2023/2001(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 b (new)
Paragraph 3 b (new)
3b. Underlines the importance of swift amendment of the Annexes to the 2003 Agreement on Trade in Wines and Spirits Drinks to allow for the inclusion of certain GIs from Member States that joined the Union after 2003;
Amendment 32 #
2023/2001(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Welcomes the progress made in eliminating most of the duties in trade of agricultural products between the Union and Canada, as well as the evolution of the use of tariff rate quotas (TRQs);
Amendment 8 #
2023/0264(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Recalls the Parliament resolution on “Upscaling the 2021-2027 MFF: a resilient EU budget fit for new challenges”; calls for an urgent revision of the EU long-term budget to respond more effectively to evolving needs, address funding gaps, increase flexibility and crisis responsiveness, and provide new funding for new political priorities, while maintaining that the repayment of recovery plan borrowing does not jeopardise EU programmes; calls on the Commission to present a proposal for a new batch of new resources as soon as possible;
Amendment 11 #
2023/0264(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Highlights the role that agriculture plays in achieving the Union objectives of food security, sustainable growth, social inclusion, and combating climate change, while helping to diversify agricultural production, preserve biodiversity and develop local economies;
Amendment 29 #
2023/0264(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Points out the negative effects of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine on food security, and stresses the rapidly increasing importance of food and feed sovereignty;
Amendment 38 #
2023/0264(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Underlines that inflation has been much higher than the 2 % deflator foreseen in the MFF, which will not compensate for the loss of value, imposing further strains on farmers’ profitability, especially small- scale and young farmers; highlights the fact that the CAP budget in the MFF 2021-27 is already lower than in the previous planning period and that the high inflation further depreciates the funding available to farmers particularly in the CAP Budget;
Amendment 49 #
2023/0264(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Is committed to ensuring that generational renewalConsiders that that the demographic challenge of ageing population is of particular concern in rural areas and is committed to ensuring that generational renewal, as the key for social, economic and environmental sustainability of rural areas and EU food autonomy, the future of agriculture and the traditional family farming model, must remain a high priority in the future CAP programming period; calls for the strengthening of support measures for young farmers and for the improvement of their access to land and credit;
Amendment 60 #
2023/0264(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Highlights the importance of redistributive income support mechanisms in supporting smaller and medium-sized farms and ensuring a fair and equitable distribution of Union funds;
Amendment 65 #
2023/0264(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Stresses the importance of funding research and innovation in the agri-food sector; recalls the importance of ensuring that research results reach farm level, in particular through the Horizon Europe programme and the European Innovation Partnerships (EIPs), recalls the importance of ensuring that research results reach farm level and are translated into accessible farm advisory services, underlines the role of stronger agricultural knowledge and innovation systems (AKIS), as well as the Farm Sustainability Data Network (FSDN) to encourage innovation projects and to diffuse their use;
Amendment 75 #
2023/0264(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Welcomes the acceleration of the digital transformation in agriculture and rural areas to allow for more precise, efficient and sustainable agricultural systems in the EU with a higher environmental performance, as well as increase the attractiveness of employment in agriculture and rural communities for younger generations;
Amendment 78 #
2023/0264(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Emphasises the important role of agri-cooperatives, and calls on Member States to provide more support for the cooperative sector to develop incentive schemes for setting up new cooperatives, helping to boost the competitiveness of the agri-food sector and the economic and social development of rural areas; stresses that this collaboration can help cooperatives’ members to adapt more easily to climate change, increase efficiency and diversify their production;
Amendment 83 #
2023/0264(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Emphasises the need for careful monitoring of the national CAP strategic plans. Recalls that implementation of common agricultural policy (CAP) strategic plans began in January 2023, putting in place CAP’s new green architecture and taking an important step in the transition towards more sustainable food systems in the EU, emphasises the need for careful monitoring of the national CAP strategic plans; encourages Member States to improve the quality of data and indicators reported to the Union in order to realize the full potential of the new performance-based CAP and accurately assess its impact;
Amendment 88 #
2023/0264(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 11 a (new)
Paragraph 11 a (new)
11a. Welcomes the mobilisation of the crisis reserve to finance exceptional measures for Union farmers most affected by the war in Ukraine, climate events and market disturbances, recalls, however, that the crisis reserve only consists of about EUR 3 per hectare of the farmland in the EU, emphasises the urgent need for additional better-funded instruments for crisis management;
Amendment 91 #
2023/0264(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 11 b (new)
Paragraph 11 b (new)
11b. Recalls that, according to the Court of Auditors’ special report, climate spending in the 2014-2019 budget was not as high as reported, and that reliability issues could remain in the Commission's reporting for the 2021-2027 period, when the EU’s new climate spending target will rise to 30%, calls on the Commission to report on the contribution made by climate spending to EU climate and energy objectives, focusing in particular on measuring the impact of the budget on mitigating climate change and review the methodology of climate mainstreaming accountability, to allow better decision- making to ensure a full transition to a sustainable agricultural sector;
Amendment 95 #
2023/0264(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 11 c (new)
Paragraph 11 c (new)
11c. Recalls the Court of Auditors’ Special report on conflict of interest in EU cohesion and agricultural spending, calls on the Commission to take action to improve the prevention, detection and reporting of conflicts of interests, and to promote transparency;
Amendment 96 #
2023/0264(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 11 d (new)
Paragraph 11 d (new)
11d. Calls for the Commission to maintain an adequate level of funding in order to preserve the high sanitary and phytosanitary status in the EU, and rejects any decrease in co-financing rates for sanitary programmes and control of emerging diseases, which may jeopardise animal and plant health, and thus human health in the EU;
Amendment 97 #
2023/0264(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 11 e (new)
Paragraph 11 e (new)
11e. Points out the significant potential of results-based carbon farming for tackling climate change through carbon sequestration and the preservation of biodiversity and eco-systems;
Amendment 98 #
2023/0264(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 11 f (new)
Paragraph 11 f (new)
11f. Emphasises the value that circular economy and the agricultural sectors that work according to its principles can bring in achieving the goals set in the European Green Deal, encourages pilot projects to improve knowledge and increase the understanding of possible benefits of circular economy principles for the European food system;
Amendment 99 #
2023/0264(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 11 g (new)
Paragraph 11 g (new)
11g. Reaffirms the significance of the Union's school fruit, vegetables and milk scheme to help children follow a healthy diet, with nutrition its primary focus; invites Member States to fully use their allocations of those schemes and prioritise sustainable, local, and high-quality production;
Amendment 100 #
2023/0264(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 11 h (new)
Paragraph 11 h (new)
11h. Stresses the importance of Solidarity Lanes in ensuring that Ukrainian grain can reach countries most in need, supporting Ukraine's economy and preventing a global food crisis, notices, however, the impact of the surge in traffic, and calls on the Commission to provide funding for strengthening and improving the relevant infrastructure.
Amendment 3 #
2023/0260R(NLE)
Draft opinion
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas the EU-Chile Association Agreement, which has been in force since 2003, has significantly expanded bilateral trade, including in the agri-food sector, and now needs to be modernisedplacing the EU as Chile's third largest trading partner, and now needs to be modernised, including by providing advanced mutual benefits for the agri- food sectors in the EU and in Chile;
Amendment 9 #
2023/0260R(NLE)
Draft opinion
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas the recent global crises and Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine have emphasised the need for diverse trading partners and reliable value chains; whereas one way to meet this need is to strengthen trade relations with like-minded partners, such as Chile;
Amendment 24 #
2023/0260R(NLE)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the modernisation of trade relations between the EU and Chile through the inclusion of new sustainability provisions in the trade and sustainable development chapter of the EU-Chile Advanced Framework Agreement, plus a review clause to account for changing environmental and social standards and, for the first time, a dedicated chapter on Trade and Gender Equality; notes, however, that the trade and sustainable development chapter lacks sanctions;
Amendment 38 #
2023/0260R(NLE)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Acknowledges the expansion of the elimination of tariffs on EU exports, leaving 99.9 % of exports tariff-free, which will improve export opportunities for EU agri-food producers;
Amendment 46 #
2023/0260R(NLE)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Recognises that the Agreement protects 216 EU agricultural geographical indications and 18 Chilean geographical indications, on the top of the existing agreement on wines and spirits, which protects 1745 EU GIs for wines and 257 EU GIs for spirits and aromatised wines; underlines the need for further effective enforcement of GI protection for EU rights holders in Chile as well as to consider expanding the list of GI products protected in both markets;
Amendment 51 #
2023/0260R(NLE)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Welcomes the inclusion of a dedicated chapter on sustainable food systems that promotes bilateral and international cooperation towards a sustainable food system, including provisions on animal welfare; regrets, however,urges the Commission to make full use of the cooperation provisions contained in this chapter, also by facilitating the exchange of information on innovative farming practices, so that the ambition does not falls short of the Farm to Fork Strategy in terms of climate change mitigation, biodiversity and environmental protection;
Amendment 59 #
2023/0260R(NLE)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Insists that Chilean producers exporting to the EU apply the same, high production standards regarding traceability, animal welfare and use of veterinary medicinal and phytosanitary products as EU farmers; calls on the Commission to regularly update the European Parliament on the progress in the application of those standards.
Amendment 10 #
2023/0105(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) Council Directive 2001/110/EC20 lays down definitions, names, common rules on composition, quality and labelling requirements for honey. _________________ 20 Council Directive 2001/110/EC of 20 December 2001 relating to honey (OJ L 10, 12.1.2002, p. 47).
Amendment 19 #
2023/0105(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) In light of the close link between the quality of honey and its origin and the need for the consumer not to be misled regarding the quality of the product, Directive 2001/110/EC lays down rules on the labelling of the origin where the honey has been harvested. In particular, Article 2(4) of that Directive requires the country or countries of origin where the honey has been harvested to be indicated on the label and provides that, if honey originates in more than one Member State or third country, the mandatory indication of the countries of origin may be replaced by one of the following, as appropriate: ‘blend of EU honeys’, ‘blend of non-EU honeys’, ‘blend of EU and non-EU honeys’. The different rules adopted on this basis by Member States may have misled consumers and may have hindered the functioning of the internal market. In the light of Green Deal and the Farm to Fork Strategy’s objective of strengthening consumers in making informed choices, including on the geographical origin of their food, and the details of this origin in case of blending, and in the interest to preserve the efficient functioning of the internal market throughout the Union through a harmonisation of the labelling rules, it is appropriate to revise the rules for honey origin labelling and provide that the country or countries of origin should be mentioned on the packaging. In light of the reduced size of the packs containing only a single portion of honey (breakfast packs) and the resulting technical difficulties, it is therefore appropriate to exempt those packs from the obligation of listing all individual countries of origin, where the honey originates in more than one countryin descending order and with their respective percentages on the packaging.
Amendment 29 #
2023/0105(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 3 a (new)
Recital 3 a (new)
(3a) Given the particular interest shown by consumers in the geographical origin of honey in relation to its characteristics and quality, and the need for full transparency in this area, the country or countries of origin in which the honey was harvested must appear on the label in the same visual field as the indication of the product. In light of the reduced size of the packs containing only a single portion of honey (breakfast packs) and the resulting technical difficulties, it is therefore appropriate to exempt those packs from the obligation of listing all individual countries of origin, where the honey originates in more than one country.
Amendment 35 #
2023/0105(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 3 b (new)
Recital 3 b (new)
(3b) Recalling that the 2023 DG Health - JRC - and OLAF reports on honey adulteration "EU Coordinate action "From the hives"" and "EU Coordinate action to deter certain fraudulent practices in the honey sector - Analytical testing results of imported honeys" highlight a very high percentage of imported honeys suspected of adulteration and confirm a range of frauds that exist in the honey sector. Aware of the fact that some operators use "customised" sugar syrups that are very difficult to detect even when the most sophisticated analytical techniques. Noting with regret the lack of official, validated analytical methods for detecting new types of adulteration with sugar syrups means that national authorities are unable to identify as fraudulent honeys. Pointing out that the honey market is faced with a significant supply of honeys that have been adulterated by the addition of sugar syrups, either during the honeyflow or at some stage in the packaging process. Convinced that several elements need to be clarified or improved in the honey directive to limit the possibilities of fraud and facilitate controls: complementing mandatory traceability measures with a block-chain system, rejecting filtered honey and honeys whose excessive water content has been reduced by vacuum evaporation.
Amendment 45 #
2023/0105(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 3 d (new)
Recital 3 d (new)
Amendment 47 #
2023/0105(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 3 e (new)
Recital 3 e (new)
(3e) Acknowledging that the term filtered honey used in Directive 2001/110 is misinterpreted by consumers, who confuse this industrial filtration with the filtration carried out by beekeepers after extracting their honey to remove particles of wax and other foreign elements from the honey. Consequently, filtered honeys as defined in Directive 2001/110/EC should no longer be allowed to be marketed under the name "honey" and the definition of "filtered honey" should be deleted from the text of the Directive. Noticing that the removal by filtration of some or all of the pollen and figurative elements present in a honey and a filter mesh size of less than 100 µm no longer allows the correct identification of the geographical and/or botanical origin of a honey. This makes it much more difficult to differentiate between sugar syrup or a mixture of honey and syrup and honey. Industrial filtration makes it impossible to trace honey using an analytical approach such as melissopalynology. Underlining that Annex II of Directive 2001/110 should be amended to specify the level of filtration permitted, which does not significantly alter the density and pollen spectrum of the honey, but which does remove most of the foreign matter in the honey.
Amendment 49 #
2023/0105(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 3 f (new)
Recital 3 f (new)
(3f) Recalling that both the definition of honey in Directive 2001/110 EC and that of the Codex Alimentarius clearly specify the work carried out by bees in the hive after they have harvested their crop, which they transform by combining it with specific materials of their own, deposit, dehydrate, store, and leave to ripen in the combs of the hive. Dehydration followed by ripening are operations carried out by the bees. Outside the European Union, some countries accept that the work of bees is limited to harvesting nectar secretions from plants or honeydew in the production of honey. Unripe honeys produced in this way have a moisture content well in excess of the 20% threshold laid down in Directive 2001/110/EC. Operators work with heated vats under a vacuum to limit the boiling temperature of the water in the honey. However, this process degrades the final product, depleting its aromas and enzymes. Insists that the Honey Directive should prohibit this vacuum evaporation process for honeys.
Amendment 50 #
2023/0105(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 3 f (new)
Recital 3 f (new)
(3f) Given the particular interest shown by consumers in the geographical origin of honey in relation to its characteristics and quality, and the need for total transparency in this area, the country or countries of origin in which the honey was harvested must appear on the label in the same visual field as the indication of the product.
Amendment 51 #
2023/0105(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 3 g (new)
Recital 3 g (new)
(3g) Noticing with concern Heat treatment above 40°C (± 5°C) causes degradation of certain constituents of the honey. The indicators currently used, namely HMF and the diastase index, make it possible to evaluate the significant degradation of honeys but do not make it possible to highlight the degradation of more sensitive honey constituents such as invertase. Consumer must be able to differentiate between honeys not exposed to treatments involving heating above 40°C (± 5°C) and other honeys. The words "virgin honey or unheated honey" must thus appear on the label. In order to control the absence of thermal degradation of a honey, a minimum threshold must be set for the presence of invertase in honey, an enzyme that is much more sensitive and degrades very rapidly once high temperatures are reached.
Amendment 64 #
2023/0105(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 12 a (new)
Recital 12 a (new)
(12a) Whereas Annex to Directive 2001/112/EC lists in Part II, Point 2 ingredients that may be used in manufacturing of products covered by the Directive. Limited amount of ingredients are allowed to be used in manufacturing of fruit juices and fruit nectars. There is an increasing consumer interest in innovative products that contain other ingredients from natural sources such as spices and aromatic herbs (which are already allowed in tomato juice), providing a new taste to the consumer. Since organoleptic characteristics may change, the name of the ingredient should accompany the legal name to better inform consumers in line with the Regulation (EU) 1169/2011.
Amendment 71 #
2023/0105(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1 a (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1 a (new)
Directive 2001/110/EC
Article 2 – paragraph 2
Article 2 – paragraph 2
(1a) paragraph 2 is replaced by the following: 2. the product names referred to in Annex I, points 2 and 3, shall apply only to the products defined therein and shall be used in trade to designate them. These names may be replaced by the simple product name ‘honey’, except in the case of "comb honey", "honey with pieces of comb" and "industrial honey".
Amendment 74 #
2023/0105(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2 – introductory part
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2 – introductory part
Directive 2001/110/EC
Article 2 – paragraph 4 – points a, b, c (new), d (new)
Article 2 – paragraph 4 – points a, b, c (new), d (new)
(2) in paragraph 4, points (a) and (b) are replaced by the following and points (c) and (d) are added:
Amendment 88 #
2023/0105(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2
Directive 2001/110/EC
Article 2 – paragraph 4 – point a
Article 2 – paragraph 4 – point a
(a) The country of origin where the honey has been harvested shall be indicated on the label and on the front of the package close to the commercial name of the product. If the honey originates in more than one country, the countries of origin where the honey has been harvested shall be indicated on the front label of packs containing more than 25 g in descending order and with their respective percentage in the blend;
Amendment 103 #
2023/0105(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2
(b) For the purpoexcept in the cases of Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011 and in particular Articles 12 to 15 thereof, the particulars to be indicated according to point (a) of this paragraph shall be considered as mandatory particulars in accordance with Article 9 of that Regulation.honey intended for industry, these names may be supplemented by indications relating to: - floral or vegetable origin, if the product comes entirely or essentially from the origin indicated and has the organoleptic, physico-chemical and microscopic characteristics thereof, - regional, territorial or topographical origin, if the product comes entirely from the origin indicated, - specific quality criteria.
Amendment 106 #
2023/0105(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2
Directive 2001/110/EC
Article 2 – paragraph 4 – point b a (new)
Article 2 – paragraph 4 – point b a (new)
(ba) For honeys produced and imported into the EU, each honey marketed under an identification other than that of the harvesting beekeeper must have an identifier linked to a block- chain traceability system enabling the competent authorities to trace the entire history of the honey back to the harvesting beekeepers or operators in the case of imported honeys. Any personal information that may be included in the traceability system will only be accessible to consumers with the prior agreement of the producers of the batch or batches in question.
Amendment 111 #
2023/0105(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2
Directive 2001/110/EC
Article 2– paragraph 4– point b b (new)
Article 2– paragraph 4– point b b (new)
(bb) except for honeys intended for industrial use, these names may be supplemented by indications referring to the absence of significant heat treatment. The term referring to the absence of significant heat treatment such as "raw honey" or "unheated honey" may be included on the label on the front of the commercial packaging of the honey if no heat treatment has degraded highly sensitive enzymes such as invertase, from harvesting to potting, while complying with the conditions referred to in Annex II, points 6 (diastase index and hydroxymethylfurfural content) and 7 (invertase index).
Amendment 116 #
2023/0105(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Directive 2001/110/EC
Article 3
Article 3
Article 3 of Directive 2001/110/EC is amended as follows: In the case of honey intended for industry, bulk containers, packaging and sales documentation shall clearly indicate the full product name as set out in point 3 of Annex I.
Amendment 121 #
2023/0105(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 b (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 b (new)
Directive 2001/110/EC
Article 4 – paragraph 1
Article 4 – paragraph 1
Article 4 of Directive 2001/110/EC is amended as follows: The first sentence of Article 4 of Directive 2001/110/EC is replaced by the following: The Commission may adopt methods for verifying the compliance of honey with the provisions of Directive 2001/110/EC and of this Directive, including the implementation of blockchain-type traceability incorporating a minimum of criteria (criteria set out in Annex 3). These methods shall be adopted in accordance with the procedure referred to in Article 7(2) of Directive 2001/110/EC.
Amendment 131 #
2023/0105(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 1 – point c
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 1 – point c
Directive 2001/112/EC
Article 3 – paragraph 4
Article 3 – paragraph 4
Without prejudice to Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council**, the statement ‘no added sugars’, ‘no fruit juices contain added sugars’ may appear on the label in , or any other same field of vision astatement likely to have the nsame of the products referred to in Part I, point 1, of Annex I to this Directivemeaning for the consumer, may appear on the label.
Amendment 139 #
2023/0105(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 1 – point d
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 1 – point d
Directive 2001/112/EC
Article 3 – paragraph 6
Article 3 – paragraph 6
6. Without prejudice to Article 22 of Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011 for mixtures of fruit juice and fruit juice from concentrate, reduced-sugars fruit juice and reduced-sugars fruit juice from concentrate, and for fruit nectar obtained entirely or partly from one or more concentrated products, the labelling shall bear the words ‘from concentrate(s)’ or ‘partially from concentrate(s)’, as appropriate. That information shall be entered close to the product name, standing out well from any background, in clearly visible characters.;
Amendment 159 #
2023/0105(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Annex I – paragraph 1 a (new)
Annex I – paragraph 1 a (new)
Directive 2001/110/EC
Annex 1 – paragraph 2 – point b – point viii
Annex 1 – paragraph 2 – point b – point viii
Annex I to Directive 2001/110/EC is amended as follows: In paragraph 2, point (b)(viii) is deleted and replaced by the following: (viii) raw or unheated honey: the honey obtained which has been extracted from the combs, decanted and then, if necessary, sieved. Honey so designated has not been heated to the extent that its enzymes and other thermally sensitive elements are degraded to such an extent that they no longer comply with the criteria laid down in points 6 and 7 of Annex II.
Amendment 167 #
2023/0105(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Annex I – paragraph 1 – point 1 – point a
Annex I – paragraph 1 – point 1 – point a
Directive 2001/112/EC
Annex 1 – part 1 – point 6 a
Annex 1 – part 1 – point 6 a
The product obtained from the product defined in point 1(a) where naturally occurring sugars have been removduced by at least 30 % by using a process authorised under the conditions laid down in Part II, point 3, of Annex I, which maintains all the otherthe European Commission Delegated Act. The product maintains essential physical, chemical, organoleptical and nutritional characteristics of an average type of juice of the fruit from which it comes, defined in the European Commission Delegated Act. Flavour, pulp, and cells obtained by suitable physical means from the same species of fruit may be restored to the reduced-sugar fruit juice.
Amendment 171 #
2023/0105(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Annex I – paragraph 1 – point 1 – point a
Annex I – paragraph 1 – point 1 – point a
Directive 2001/112/EC
Annex 1 – part 1 – point 6 b
Annex 1 – part 1 – point 6 b
The product obtained from the products defined in point 1(b) or point 2 and/or in point 6(c), where naturally occurring sugars have been removduced by at least 30 % by using a process authorised under the conditions laid down in point 3 of Part II of Annex I, which maintains all the otherthe European Commission Delegated Act, and that have been reconstituted with potable water that meets the criteria set out in Directive 98/83/EC. The product maintains essential physical, chemical, organoleptical and nutritional characteristics of an average type of juice of the fruit from which it comes, and that have been reconstituted with potable water that meets the criteria set out in Directive 98/83/ECdefined in the European Commission Delegated Act. Flavour, pulp, and cells obtained by suitable physical means from the same species of fruit may be restored to the reduced-sugar fruit juice from concentrate.
Amendment 172 #
2023/0105(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Annex I – paragraph 1 – point 1 – point a
Annex I – paragraph 1 – point 1 – point a
Directive 2001/112/EC
Annex 1 – part 1 – point 6 b
Annex 1 – part 1 – point 6 b
The mixing of reduced-sugar fruit juice from concentrate with fruit juice,d fruit juice, reduced- sugars fruit juice, concentrated reduced- sugars fruit juice, fromuit purée and/or concentrate,d fruit purée and/or fruit purée from concentrate is authorised in the production of reduced-sugar fruit juice from concentrate.; is authorised in the production of reduced-sugars fruit juice from concentrate.’; c) concentrated reduced-sugars fruit juice The product obtained from the products defined in point 6(a) by the physical removal of a specific proportion of the water content, and/ or the product defined in point (2) where naturally occurring sugars have been reduced by at least 30 % by using a process authorised under the conditions laid down in the European Commission Delegated Act. The product maintains essential physical, chemical, organoleptical and nutritional characteristics of an average type of concentrated juice of the fruit from which it comes, defined in the European Commission Delegated Act. Where the product is intended for direct consumption, the removal of water shall be at least 50 % of the water content. Flavour, pulp, and cells obtained by suitable physical means from the same species of fruit may be restored to the concentrated reduced-sugar fruit juice.
Amendment 185 #
2023/0105(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Annex I – paragraph 1 – point 1 – point b – point i – indent 4 a (new)
Annex I – paragraph 1 – point 1 – point b – point i – indent 4 a (new)
Directive 2001/112/EC
Annex 1 – part 2 – point 2 – indent 8 a (new)
Annex 1 – part 2 – point 2 – indent 8 a (new)
– The following indent is added: - Spices and aromatic herbs For products made only from products listed in Annex I and spices and/or herbs, a descriptive name in line with Regulation (EU) 1169/2011 should be “[name Annex I] with (added) [name of the spice/herb]”.
Amendment 188 #
2023/0105(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Annex I – paragraph 1 – point 1 – point b – point i – indent 4 b (new) Directive 2001/112/EC
Annex I – paragraph 1 – point 1 – point b – point i – indent 4 b (new) Directive 2001/112/EC
– the following indent is added: - Fiber For products made only from products listed in Annex I and fiber, a descriptive name in line with Regulation (EU) 1169/2011 should be “[name Annex I] with (added) fiber”
Amendment 191 #
2023/0105(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Annex I – paragraph 1 – point 1 – point b – point ii – indent 1 a (new)
Annex I – paragraph 1 – point 1 – point b – point ii – indent 1 a (new)
Directive 2001/112/EC
Annex 1 – part 2 – point 3 – indent 4
Annex 1 – part 2 – point 3 – indent 4
– Indent 4 is replaced as follows: Enzyme preparations: pectinases (for breakdown of pectin), proteinases (for breakdown of proteins), and amylases (for breakdown of starch) and cellulases (for breakdown of cellulose) meeting the requirements of Regulation (EC) No 1332/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 December 2008 on food enzymes (1);
Amendment 196 #
2023/0105(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Annex I – paragraph 1 – point 1 – point b – point ii – indent 2
Annex I – paragraph 1 – point 1 – point b – point ii – indent 2
Directive 2001/112/EC
Annex 1 – part 2 – point 3 – indent 12 a (new)
Annex 1 – part 2 – point 3 – indent 12 a (new)
– Processes to remove naturally occurring sugars, to the extent that they maintain all the other essential physical, chemical, organoleptical and nutritional characteristics of an average type of juice of the fruit from which it comes: membrane filtration, yeast fermentation. enzymatic process;
Amendment 203 #
2023/0105(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Annex I – paragraph 1 b (new)
Annex I – paragraph 1 b (new)
Directive 2001/110/EC
Annex 2 – paragraphs 2 and 3
Annex 2 – paragraphs 2 and 3
Annex II to Directive 2001/110/EC is amended as follows: In paragraph 2, the introductory text is amended as follows: When placed on the market as honey or used in any product intended for human consumption, honey shall not have added to it any food ingredient, including food additives, nor shall any other additions be made other than honey. Honey must, as far as possible, be free from organic or inorganic matters foreign to its composition. With the exception of point 3 of Annex I, it must not have any foreign tastes or odour, have begun to ferment, have an artificially changed acidity or have been heated in such a way that the natural enzymes have been either destroyed or significantly inactivated, or have been exposed to vacuum evaporation. Honey, when marketed as such or used in any product intended for human consumption, must comply with the compositional characteristics set out in points 1 to 6. In addition, when marketed as "raw honey" or "unheated honey", honey must also comply with the compositional characteristics set out in point 7. In paragraph 3, the introductory text "Without prejudice to point 2(b)(viii) of Annex I, neither pollen nor any other constituent particular to honey, may be removed except where this is unavoidable in the removal of foreign inorganic or organic matter." is replaced by the following: "No significant change in the pollen count or pollen spectrum of pollen smaller than 100 µm is permitted. No constituents of honey smaller than 100 µm may be removed. A new composition criterion (7) is added to Annex II. 7. invertase index (Gontarski unit) for "raw honeys" or "unheated honeys". Determined after processing and blending. - generally, not less than 50 U/kg - honeys with a low natural enzyme content, not less than 25 U/kg
Amendment 204 #
2023/0105(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Annex I a (new)
Annex I a (new)
Directive 2001/110/EC
Annex 2 a (new)
Annex 2 a (new)
Annex IIa MEASURES RELATING TO HONEY TRACABILITY Guidelines The identification data that must accompany honey throughout the food chain, from producer to consumer, and which must be entered into the blockchain system are as follows: 1. Harvesting beekeeper references 2. Lot defined by the harvesting beekeeper 3. The specific identifier assigned by the non-European operator ensuring the sale to the EU market of batches of honey harvested in a non-EU country. 4. The unique identifier (code) of each operator in the food chain who purchases and processes honey from the beekeeper- harvester. Importers of honey into the EU are treated in the same way as operators and the traceability of honeys applies to them too. 5. Year the honey was harvested if sold in bulk from the beekeeper down the chain. 6. The year of blending if honeys from different geographical origins (country of origin) are blended. 7. In the case of a blend of honeys, indication of the percentages of the different batches of honeys identified by their identifier and creation of a new identifier linked to the initial information. 8. Specific floral or plant origin if mentioned on the packaging of the honey marketed. 9. Geographical origin corresponding to the origin indicated on the marketed honey. The indication of origin must meet at least the requirements of Article 2(4)(a), i.e. the country of harvest. The information on origin may not be modified under any circumstances and must always appear when the honey is mixed or in transit. All packaging of blended honey, from the barrel to the jar, must be labelled with the last identifier assigned to the honey, so that it can be linked to all the honeys of origin and to the various blends made by the intermediary operator(s).
Amendment 254 #
2023/0105(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Annex II – paragraph 1 – point 1 – point b
Annex II – paragraph 1 – point 1 – point b
Directive 2001/113/EC
Annex 1 – part 1 – point b – indent 2
Annex 1 – part 1 – point b – indent 2
– The name ‘jelly marmalade’ may be used where the product defined as citrus marmalade contains no insoluble matter except possibly for small quantities of finely sliced peel. In the name 'citrus marmalade', the term 'citrus fruit' may be replaced by the name of the citrus fruit used.;
Amendment 256 #
2023/0105(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Annex II – paragraph 1 – point 2 a (new)
Annex II – paragraph 1 – point 2 a (new)
Directive 2001/113/EC
Annex 2 – paragraph 1 – indent 2
Annex 2 – paragraph 1 – indent 2
(2a) In Annex II, the second indent is replaced by the following: ‘– fruit juice, whether or not concentrated: only in jams’;
Amendment 257 #
2023/0105(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Annex II – paragraph 1 – point 2 b (new)
Annex II – paragraph 1 – point 2 b (new)
Directive 2001/113/EC
Annex 2 – paragraph 1 – indent 4
Annex 2 – paragraph 1 – indent 4
(2b) In Annex II, the fourth indent is replaced by the following: ‘- red fruit juices, whether or not concentrated: only in jam and extra jam manufactured from rosehips, strawberries, raspberries, gooseberries, redcurrants, plums and rhubarb,
Amendment 3 #
2023/0038M(NLE)
Draft opinion
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
Ba. whereas on 24 February 2022, the Russian Federation illegally invaded Ukraine, and its effects have put food security and the resilience of the global food system at the centre of the political agenda; whereas European food production must therefore be considered a strategic sector and be placed on an equal footing with energy security, defence and the fight against climate change at the Union and international level;
Amendment 30 #
2023/0038M(NLE)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Insists, nevertheless, that the Commission carefully manage and monitor the TRQs and keep the European Parliament constantly informed;
Amendment 36 #
2023/0038M(NLE)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. CNotes that there is only a general final clause of the FTA, therefore, calls for the EU to implement safeguards, such as seasonality, on the additional TRQs for agricultural products;
Amendment 48 #
2023/0038M(NLE)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Recognises that the EU beef and sheep sectors are under pressure owing to the market access being given to non-EU countries; calls on the Commission to consider the cumulative impacts of future trade deals on EU farmers and the need for investment in local EU production; it is necessary to maintain a level playing field for EU farmers, agri-food producers and workers; therefore, calls for the introduction of appropriate support measures for EU farmers;
Amendment 61 #
2023/0038M(NLE)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Underlines that it would welcome exchanges between the EU and New Zealand on good practices, in particular regarding regulations on new breeding techniques and attracting young people, especially female farmers, into the farming profession;
Amendment 73 #
2023/0038M(NLE)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7a. Welcomes the obligation for the insurance of the effective implementation of the ILO convention and the multilateral environmental agreements, including the Paris Agreement on Climate Change, welcomes that the FTA also includes chapters on SPS measures, rules of origin, customs and trade facilitation, and technical barriers to trade.
Amendment 6 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 3 a (new)
Citation 3 a (new)
– having regard to the Agreement between the European Union and Türkiye on the readmission of persons residing without authorisation,
Amendment 7 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4
Citation 4
Amendment 12 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4 a (new)
Citation 4 a (new)
– having regard to the restrictive measures framework established by the EU on 11 November 2019, as a response to Türkiye’s illegal drilling activities in the Eastern Mediterranean, as most recently renewed by Council Decision (CFSP) 2022/2186 of 8 November 2022,
Amendment 13 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4 b (new)
Citation 4 b (new)
– having regard to the declaration issued by the European Community and its Member States on 21 September 2005, including the provision that the recognition of all Member States is a necessary component of the negotiations, and to the need for Türkiye to proceed to the normalization of its relations with all Member States and to fully implement the Additional Protocol to the Ankara Agreement towards all Member States, by removing all obstacles to the free movement of goods, including restrictions on means of transport, without prejudice and discrimination,
Amendment 16 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4 c (new)
Citation 4 c (new)
– having regard to the Council Conclusions of 2018, 2019, 2021 and 2022 to the effect that the accession negotiations effectively have come to a standstill and no further chapters can be considered for opening or closing and no further work towards the modernisation of the EU-Turkey Customs Union is foreseen,
Amendment 17 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4 d (new)
Citation 4 d (new)
– having regard to Article 46 of the European Convention on Human Rights, which states that the contracting parties undertake to abide by the final judgments of the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) in any case to which they are parties, and therefore to the obligation of Türkiye to implement all judgments of the European courts, including the ECtHR,
Amendment 18 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4 e (new)
Citation 4 e (new)
– having regard to the relevant resolutions of the UN Security Council on Cyprus, including resolution 550 (1984) of 11 May 1984 on secessionist actions in Cyprus and resolution 789 (1992) of 25 November 1992 which consider attempts to settle any part of Varosha by people other than its inhabitants as inadmissible, and call for the transfer of that area to the administration of the United Nations, urging all concerned in the Cyprus question to commit themselves to the confidence-building measures set out in the resolution,
Amendment 36 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 12 a (new)
Citation 12 a (new)
– having regard to its resolution of 15 April 2015 on the centenary of the Armenian Genocide,1a _________________ 1a OJ C 328, 6.9.2016, p. 2.
Amendment 44 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 14 a (new)
Citation 14 a (new)
– having regard to its resolution of 26 November 2020 on escalating tensions in Varosha following the illegal actions by Turkey and the urgent need for the resumptions of talks 2a, _________________ 2a OJ C 425, 20.10.2021, p. 143
Amendment 45 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 14 b (new)
Citation 14 b (new)
– having regard to the relevant resolutions by the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe, including the interim resolution of 16 September 2021 on the execution of the judgment of the European Court of Human Rights in Cyprus v. Turkey,
Amendment 140 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Acknowledges theTakes note of partial measures taken in recent months by the Turkish authorities to prevent the re-exportation to Russia of goods covered by EU sanctions, but urges them to go further in order to ensure that Türkiye stops being a hub for entities and individuals that wish to; underlines the paramount importance of preventing the circumvention of EU sanctions and urges Türkiye to ensure the full respect of those sanctions, in particular taking into account the free circulation of products, including dual- use goods, within the EU-Turkey Customs Union; highlights, its expectation that Turkey will avoid becoming a safe haven for Russian capital and investments, thus clearly circumvent suching EU sanctions;
Amendment 171 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Considers that, in terms of human rights and the rule of law, the desolate picture painted in its resolution of 7 June 2022 on the 2021 Commission Report on Turkey remains valid, and reiterates the content of that resolution; fully endorses the resolution of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe of 12 October 2022, and the related report by its Monitoring Committee, on the honouring of obligations and commitments by Türkiye; calls on Türkiye to fully implement all judgements of the European Courts, including the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) in line with Article 46 of the European Convention on Human Rights, as well as the payment of just satisfaction awarded by the ECtHR, an unconditional obligation deriving from Türkiye’s membership of the Council of Europe;
Amendment 211 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8a. Reiterates relevant ECtHR decisions and calls on the Turkish Government to immediately stop the violation of the human rights of the Cypriot citizens and stop depriving them of the enjoyment and exercise of their property, religious and other human rights stemming from the constitutional order of the Republic of Cyprus and the acquis communautaire, as well as the fundamental principles and values of the EU;
Amendment 214 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 b (new)
Paragraph 8 b (new)
Amendment 237 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 a (new)
Paragraph 11 a (new)
11a. Takes note of the efforts made by Türkiye to continue hosting a large refugee population; welcomes, in this regard, the continued provision of EU funding for refugees and host communities in Türkiye, and expresses its commitment to sustaining this support in the future; calls on the Commission to ensure the utmost transparency and accuracy in the allocation of funds under the successor to the Facility for Refugees in Türkiye, ensuring that the funds are primarily given directly to the refugees and host communities and managed by organisations that guarantee accountability and transparency; supports an objective assessment of the cooperation between the EU and Türkiye on refugees and migration matters and underlines the importance of both sides complying with their respective commitments under the EU-Turkey Joint Statement of 2016 and the EU-Turkey Readmission Agreement vis-à vis all Member States, including the resumption of the readmission of returnees from the Greek islands, or the activation of the Voluntary Humanitarian Admissions Scheme; recalls Türkiye’s obligation to take any necessary measures to prevent new sea or land routes for irregular migration opening from Türkiye to the EU, and its will to cooperate with neighbouring states as well as the EU to this effect and with fundamental rights as part of its implementation process;
Amendment 240 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 b (new)
Paragraph 11 b (new)
11b. Regrets that as a result of Türkiye’s instrumentalization of refugees a continuing increase in asylum applications was registered in Cyprus in 2022; notes that pending the full and effective implementation of the EU- Turkey Readmission Agreement vis-à-vis all Member States, existing bilateral readmission agreements and provisions in similar agreements and arrangements with EU Member States, should be adequately implemented; underlines that cooperation in the area of justice and home affairs with all EU Member States remains essential;
Amendment 250 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. WelcomesTakes note, after a confrontational period, Türkiye’s recent steps towards normalising relations with several countries, such as Armenia, Egypt, Israel and the Gulf states, but remains concerned by the fact that Türkiye’s foreign policy still clashes in many aspects with EU interests and, far from growing closer to the EU, it has further diverged in the last year, reaching a record low of alignment with just 7 % of common foreign and security policy decisions;
Amendment 255 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
12a. Continues to urge Türkiye to unequivocally commit to good neighbourly relations, international agreements and to the peaceful settlement of disputes in line with international law, having recourse, if necessary to the International Court of Justice and to refrain from any unilateral action or threats;
Amendment 257 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 b (new)
Paragraph 12 b (new)
12b. Reaffirms its call expressed in its resolution of 15 April 2015, and once again encourages Turkey to recognise the Armenian Genocide, thus paving the way for a genuine reconciliation between the Turkish and Armenian peoples; calls on Türkiye, in this regard, to refrain from any anti-Armenian propaganda and hate speech, and to fully respect its obligations to protect Armenian and other cultural heritage;
Amendment 265 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Welcomes the overall de-escalation of tensions observed in the eastern Mediterranean in recent times, particularly in the wake of the February earthquakes, and expresses its hope that a possible new era in Türkiye’s foreign policy might yield positive results in the bilateral relations between Türkiye and all EU Member States; reiterates its long-standing support for a solution to the Cyprus problem on the basis of a bi-communal, bi-zonal federation and reaffirms its positions on the matter expressed in its resolutionmains fully aware that any positive dynamics can be easily reversed at any moment while the underlying issues remain unresolved;calls on Turkey to respect the sovereignty of all EU Member States over their territorial sea and airspace as well as their sovereign rights, including inter alia the right to explore and exploit natural resources, in accordance with EU and international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which is part of the EU acquis; continues, in particular, to call Türkiye to show genuine collective engagement to negotiating the delimitation of exclusive economic zones (EEZs) and the continental shelf in good faith and in line with international rules and principles; condemns, in this regard, the harassment by Turkish warships of research vessels performing surveys within the EEZ delimitated by the Republic of Cyprus; reaffirms the right of the Republic of Cyprus to enter into bilateral agreements on its EEZ and to explore and exploit its natural resources in full compliance with international law;supports the invitation extended to Türkiye by the Government of the Republic of Cyprus to negotiate in good faith the maritime delimitation between their respective coast lines, or to have recourse to the International Court of 7 June 2022stice, and calls on Türkiye to accept Cyprus’s invitation;
Amendment 290 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)
Paragraph 13 a (new)
13a. Regrets the fact that the Cyprus problem remains unresolved and stresses that a solution in line with the relevant UN Security Council resolutions and within the agreed framework will have a positive impact on Türkiye’s relations with the EU; strongly reaffirms its view that the only sustainable solution to the Cyprus issue is that of a fair, comprehensive and viable settlement, including of its external aspects, within the UN framework, with a single international legal personality, single sovereignty, single citizenship and political equality, as set out in the relevant UN Security Council resolutions and in accordance with international law and on the basis of respect for the principles on which the Union is founded;
Amendment 297 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 b (new)
Paragraph 13 b (new)
13b. Reiterates its call on the Turkish Government to halt its plans for the Akkuyu nuclear power plant, which is located in a region prone to severe earthquakes, therefore posing a major threat not only to Türkiye, but also to the Mediterranean region; asks the Turkish Government to involve the governments of its neighbouring countries in relation to any further developments in the Akkuyu venture; to facilitate an experts’ mission of the International Atomic Energy Agency for inspection of the facility after the devastating earthquakes; to align its legislation with relevant EU acquis on nuclear safety and proceed with cross- border cooperation with neighboring states; to accede to the UN Convention on Environmental Impact Assessment in a Trans-boundary Context and the UNECE Convention on Access to Information, Public Participation in Decision-Making and Access to Justice in Environmental Matters;
Amendment 302 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 c (new)
Paragraph 13 c (new)
13c. Deplores the fact that the Turkish Government has abandoned the agreed basis of the solution and the UN framework to defend on a two-state solution in Cyprus; calls on Türkiye to abandon this unacceptable proposal for a two-state solution; strongly condemns any action to facilitate or assist in any way the international recognition of the secessionist entity in the occupied areas of Cyprus and stresses that such actions severely damages efforts to create an environment conducive to resuming settlement talks under the auspices of the United Nations;
Amendment 306 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 d (new)
Paragraph 13 d (new)
13d. Further calls on Türkiye to withdraw its troops from Cyprus and refrain from any unilateral action which would entrench the permanent division of the island and to refrain from action altering the demographic balance; condemns the fact that Turkey continues to violate UN Security Council resolutions 550 (1984) and 789 (1992), which call on Türkiye to transfer the area of Varosha to its lawful inhabitants under the temporary administration of the UN, by supporting the opening of the town of Varosha to the public; takes the view that this move undermines mutual trust and hence the prospect of a resumption of talks on a comprehensive solution to the Cyprus problem; expresses in this regard serious concern over the recent, new illegal activities in the fenced off area of Varosha for the opening of a new part of the beach;
Amendment 311 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 e (new)
Paragraph 13 e (new)
13e. Welcomes the proposals of the President of the Republic of Cyprus which aim at breaking the stalemate in the settlement process and calls for a more active engagement by the EU in this regard; calls on the Turkish Cypriot leader to return to dialogue based on the UN format, which represents the only viable path towards reconciliation; urges that negotiations on the reunification of Cyprus be resumed under the auspices of the UN Secretary-General;
Amendment 312 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 f (new)
Paragraph 13 f (new)
13f. Reiterates its call on Türkiye to fulfil its obligation of full, non- discriminatory implementation of the Additional Protocol to the Ankara Agreement towards all Member States, including the Republic of Cyprus; regrets the fact that Türkiye has still not made progress towards normalising its relations with the Republic of Cyprus; underlines the fact that cooperation remains essential in areas such as justice and home affairs as well as aviation law and air traffic communications with all EU Member States, including the Republic of Cyprus;
Amendment 335 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 h (new)
Paragraph 13 h (new)
13h. Condemns the repeated attempts by Türkiye to intimidate and gag Turkish Cypriot journalists and progressive citizens in the Turkish Cypriot community, thus violating their right to freedom of opinion and expression;
Amendment 336 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 i (new)
Paragraph 13 i (new)
13i. Regrets Türkiye’s continuing refusal to comply with aviation law and establish a channel of communication between air traffic control centres in Türkiye and the Republic of Cyprus, the absence of which entails real safety risks and dangers as identified by the European Aviation Safety Agency and the International Federation of Air Line Pilots’ Associations; takes the view that this could be an area where Türkiye could prove its commitment to confidence- building measures and calls on Türkiye to collaborate by fully implementing EU aviation law;
Amendment 346 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Reiterates its firm conviction that Türkiye is a country of strategic relevance in political, economic and foreign policy terms, a key partneactor for the stability of the wider region and a vital ally, including within NATO, and reaffirms that the EU is committed to pursuing the best possible relations with Türkiye based on dialogue, respect and mutual trust;
Amendment 351 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 a (new)
Paragraph 14 a (new)
14a. Recalls its position, as expressed in previous resolutions, on the introduction of an initiative in the Council for all EU Member States to halt the licensing of arms exports to Türkiye in accordance with Council Common Position 2008/944/CFSP;
Amendment 361 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Considers, in view of all the above, that in the absence of a drastic change of course by the Turkish Government, Türkiye’s EU accession process has lost its purpose and will not endure much longer in the current circumstances; recommends, in that case, starting a reflection process to find an alternative and realisticaffirms nevertheless its support for keeping the accession process and its value-based approach as the main framework for EU- Türkiye relations in substitution for the accession process; calls on the Commission, therefore, to explore possible formats for a mutually appealing framework through a comprehensive and inclusive process, as it is still the most powerful tool to exercise normative pressure on and constructive dialogue with t Türkiye and the best framework to sustain the democratic and pro-European aspirations of Turkish society and promote convergence with the EU;
Amendment 370 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 a (new)
Paragraph 15 a (new)
15a. Regrets that the current Customs Union will not achieve its full potential until Türkiye fully and effectively implements the Additional Protocol in relation to all Member States including the Republic of Cyprus in a non- discriminatory manner, which is a prerequisite for the opening of the negotations for the upgrading;
Amendment 378 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)
Paragraph 16 a (new)
16a. Stresses that visa liberalisation will be possible once all the criteria have been fully and effectively met in a non- discriminatory manner towards all Member States;
Amendment 379 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 b (new)
Paragraph 16 b (new)
16b. Reiterates its call on Türkiye to comply with the EU declaration issued on September 21, 2005 and to fulfil its obligation of full, non-discriminatory implementation of the Additional Protocol to the EC-Turkey Association Agreement vis-a-vis all Member States, including the Republic of Cyprus; regrets that Türkiye has still not made progress towards the normalisation of its relations with the Republic of Cyprus; reiterates that recognition of all Member States is a necessary component of the accesion process, of Customs Union and every agreement between the EU and Türkiye and calls for progress without any further delay;
Amendment 380 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 c (new)
Paragraph 16 c (new)
16c. Deeply regrets the conversion of the Hagia Sophia historical-religious monument into a mosque without prior dialogue, which could violate the UNESCO Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage to which Türkiye is a signatory; calls on Türkiye’s Government to reconsider and reverse this decision in order to fully respect the historical and cultural character of cultural and religious monuments and symbols, especially UNESCO world heritage sites; recalls that Hagia Sophia is a place open for all communities and religions and calls on UNESCO to take proper actions in order to safeguard this World Heritage Site;
Amendment 391 #
2022/2205(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Reaffirms its support for an upgraded customs union with a broader, mutually beneficial scope, which could encompass a wide range of areas of common interest, including digitalisation and Green Deal alignment; insists that such a modernisation would need to be based on strong conditionality related to human rights and the aforfundamental freedoms, respect for international law and good neighbourly relations, and that it can only be envisaged upon Türkiye’s full implementationed principles of the Additional Protocol to extend the Ankara Agreement towards all Member States without reserve and in a non-discriminatory fashion; stresses that both parties must be fully aware of this democratic conditionality from the outset of any negotiations, as Parliament will not give its consent to the final agreement if no progress is made in this field; remains ready to advance towards visa liberalisation as soon as the Turkish authorities fulfil the six outstanding benchmarks;
Amendment 68 #
2022/2201(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2 a. expresses its unequivocal support for Kosovo’s application for membership of the Council of Europe and calls on all the EU Member States to support its invitation, as well as its invitations to join other international organisations; highlights that this would constitute another step towards the recognition of Kosovo's irreversible independence and sovereignty by other countries;
Amendment 1 #
2022/2196(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 9 a (new)
Citation 9 a (new)
— having regard to the Council conclusions on women, peace and security of 14 November 2022,
Amendment 2 #
2022/2196(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 13 a (new)
Citation 13 a (new)
— having regard to the fourth and final Annual Review Conference of the Civilian CSDP Compact on 16 November 2022,
Amendment 33 #
2022/2196(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D a (new)
Recital D a (new)
D a. whereas Member States are responsible for providing missions’ capability requirements, pursuant to art 42 TEU;
Amendment 34 #
2022/2196(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D b (new)
Recital D b (new)
D b. whereas EU CSDP missions and operations are often targeted by hybrid threats, including disinformation, putting at risk their effectiveness in stabilising the country in which they are deployed;
Amendment 47 #
2022/2196(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1 a. Calls on EU Member States to agree on an ambitious new Civilian CSDP Compact by mid 2023, as stipulated in the Strategic Compass, in order to renew their commitment to strengthening civilian CSDP, their shared political ownership of it and their commitment to reinforce and bridge the gaps in civilian CSDP missions;
Amendment 52 #
2022/2196(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2 a. Calls on EU member states to renew their commitment to increase national contributions to civilian CSDP missions, especially in terms of human resources;
Amendment 67 #
2022/2196(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 – point g
Paragraph 4 – point g
g) the security-climate nexus, by mainstreaming climate change and environmental degradation, as it relates to security challenges, while taking concrete steps to reduce the footprint of the missions with the aim to achieve climate- neutrality by 2050 in line with the goals set out under the European Green Deal,
Amendment 69 #
2022/2196(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 – point h
Paragraph 4 – point h
h) civil-military cooperation, by promoting the rule of law and accountability, including by strengthening the justice chain and capabilities to respond effectively to security challenges;
Amendment 81 #
2022/2196(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5 a. Emphasises that all EU engagements must be credible in the eyes of local and regional populations and authorities, building on close and honest cooperation with host nations, and must maintain frequent communication between mission personnel, national authorities and the broader population;
Amendment 86 #
2022/2196(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 b (new)
Paragraph 5 b (new)
5 b. Recalls that civilian missions must pay special attention to conflict dynamics, robust risk assessment and mitigation processes, and must include more impact- based monitoring and evaluation of CSDP interventions as well as more consultation and feedback mechanisms;
Amendment 92 #
2022/2196(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Calls for the new Civilian CSDP Compact to be used to strive for the full, equal and meaningful participation of women in civilian CSDP, including, as a first step, to increase the participation of women to at least 40 % across missions and at all levels by 2024; highlights women’s significant contribution in CSDP missions and operations success and as a driver of the EU’s credibility as a proponent of equal rights for men and women worldwide; recalls the EU’s Gender Action Plan (GAP) III (2020- 2024), which requires systematic integration of a gender perspective in all EU policies and external actions including the CSDP; urges the Member States and EEAS to promote an increase in the number of women in CSDP operations, including, as a first step, to increase the participation of women to at least 40 % across missions and at all levels by 2024; calls on EU Member States to commit to gradually achieve gender parity in the appointments of heads of mission and other senior leadership positions; encourages their close cooperation with local civil society actors in promoting gender equality and gender mainstreaming where possible;
Amendment 115 #
2022/2196(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10 a. Calls for the implementation of sustainable, long-term capacity building and training as part of civilian CSDP missions, where possible and required, such as “train-the-trainer” programs, in order to ensure the long-term viability and success of the missions;
Amendment 121 #
2022/2196(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Calls for clear exit strategies for civilian missions, allowing for swifter closure of missions when operational and political objectives are met, and also when those are not met;
Amendment 124 #
2022/2196(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
12 a. Further welcomes the proposed creation of the Rapid Deployment Capacity (RDC); underlines the RDC’s main tasks, which will include amongst others, rescue and evacuation operations, temporary reinforcement of other missions and acting as a reserve force to secure exit; stresses in this regard the need to create contingency plans for each Civilian CSDP mission in coordination with the Military Planning and Conduct Capability (MPCC), the CPCC and the RDC in anticipation of potential emergency situations where the RDC may be required;
Amendment 134 #
2022/2196(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 a (new)
Paragraph 14 a (new)
14 a. Calls on EU member states to maintaining a commitment in the new compact to develop the full range of capabilities needed to undertake and sustain civilian crisis management missions, including mission support and generic capabilities, and commit to specific measures to enhance their availability for civilian CSDP missions;
Amendment 136 #
2022/2196(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Deplores the fact that in spite of being one of the core commitments in the Compact, civilian CSDP missions persistently suffer from Member States not delivering on their pledges to provide sufficient personnel, with 10 Member States currently providing 78 % of seconded personnel, and 17 Member States only 22 %; calls on all MEU member Sstates to ensure that they provide seconded staff to fill 100 % of all opmaintain a commitment in the new compact to raise jointly the number and share of seconded personnel to at least 70% of international positions and to provide at least 60 % of the seconded staff for non-ersonnel across all missions and at all levels, while aiming for 100% seconded personnel in operational positions;
Amendment 143 #
2022/2196(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Stresses the need to reform the human resources policy and management system, and to ensure that the working conditions in civilian CSDP missions contribute to a safer and more inclusive environment; welcomes the EEAS’s efforts to address weaknesses in the support provided to staff in missions, including the revision of the Code of Conduct, with a particular focus on human rights principles; calls on the EEAS to examine ways aimed at reducing staff turnover and vacancy rates, including amongst others, extending deployment time;
Amendment 158 #
2022/2196(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 a (new)
Paragraph 19 a (new)
19 a. Emphasises the significance of coordinated action on a Union level to effectively prevent and counter hybrid threats faced by civilian CSDP missions; welcomes the joint communication on an EU cyber defence policy, noting the importance of cyber resilience for CSDP missions and the decision to develop an EU hybrid toolbox for a coordinated response to hybrid campaigns; stresses the need to further develop the EU’s cyber- defence policy and capabilities, including the setting up of cyber rapid response teams and their expansion towards supporting civilian CSDP missions; reiterates the urgent need to develop their strategic communication capabilities including secure communication systems drawing on the EU’s secure connectivity programme;
Amendment 162 #
2022/2196(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 b (new)
Paragraph 19 b (new)
19 b. Stresses the importance of fighting adverse disinformation aimed at Civilian CSDP missions by malicious state and non-state actors; calls on the EEAS to take concrete steps to support CSDP missions through strengthening the capacities of the StratCom division and ensuring the provision of well-trained personnel at each mission, responsible for monitoring, reporting and countering disinformation where possible;
Amendment 164 #
2022/2196(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 c (new)
Paragraph 19 c (new)
19 c. Welcomes the proposal, enshrined in the Strategic Compass, to enable a more rapid deployment of Civilian CSDP missions; underlines in this regard the stated aim to deploy up to 200 experts within 30 days; stresses therefore the need to modify decision-making procedures, including examining a shift towards qualified majority voting for certain aspects of the missions;
Amendment 165 #
2022/2196(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 d (new)
Paragraph 19 d (new)
19 d. Calls on the EEAS to develop, together with Commission services and Member States, a structured and regular civilian capability development process by 2024;
Amendment 176 #
2022/2196(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 a (new)
Paragraph 21 a (new)
21 a. Highlights the need of ensuring a more robust and realistic CFSP budget that matches the needs of new and ongoing civilian CSDP missions and its rapid, flexible and cost-efficient use to support them, ensuring sound financial management and careful prioritisation of existing resources;
Amendment 1 #
2022/2188(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital A a (new)
Recital A a (new)
Aa. whereas the decision of the UK Government to pursue a hard Brexit upon its withdrawal from the EU was inevitably going to entail the disruptive disintegration of economic and trade ties and the divergence of regulatory regimes for farmers, agri-food producers, citizens and third-country trading partners;
Amendment 3 #
2022/2188(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
Ba. whereas it is necessary to preserve a level playing field and legal certainty for famers, agri-food producers and workers, citizens;
Amendment 6 #
2022/2188(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Stresses that UK requirements for unnecessary guarantees in relation to certain animal diseases are not in line with the standanrds of the World Organizations for Animal Health; regrets the fact that the UK is not respecting the obbligation to align its certification requirements with international standards;
Amendment 11 #
2022/2188(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8a. Underlines that, although interim arrangements offered by the EU allowed to improve the situation, strucural solutions are needed for the acceptance of EU paperless certificates by the United Kingdom;
Amendment 13 #
2022/2188(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10a. Acknowledges the introduction by the United Kingdom of the Genetic Technology (Precision Breeding) Bill in May 2022, establishing new rules for release and marketing of "precision bred organisms" in England;
Amendment 14 #
2022/2188(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10 b (new)
Paragraph 10 b (new)
10b. Calls on the EU to speed up the adoption of legislation on the use of new breeding techniques, in order to ensure a level playing field for EU farmers, while sustainably increasing yields and making crops more resilient to climate change and new pathogens, particularly in view of harmful organisms, floods, droughts, water shortages and other extreme weather conditions that are afflicting an increasing number of Member States;
Amendment 17 #
2022/2188(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 17 a (new)
Paragraph 17 a (new)
17a. Calls on the Commission to assess the level of protection of EU geographical indications protected in the United Kingdom by virtue of the Withdrawal Agreement and to launch discussions with the UK on new provisions pertaining to the protection of EU geographical indications registered from January 2021;
Amendment 18 #
2022/2188(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 17 b (new)
Paragraph 17 b (new)
17b. Calls on the Commission to keep Parliament fully informed in a timely manner of all difficulties that may arise, in particular possible breaches of the Agreements that might jeopardise the level playing field and fair competition for the EU’s farmers, agri-food producers and workers;
Amendment 9 #
2022/2182(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas in 2020, a majority (57.6 %) of farm managers (all genders) were at least 55 years of age and approximately only 10 % of farm managers were under 40 years old; whereas a relatively high proportion of farmers have 65 years of age or more in many Member States;
Amendment 18 #
2022/2182(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A e (new)
Recital A e (new)
Ae. whereas almost all EU regions are experiencing a steady increase in average farm sizes and a concentration of production on fewer and larger farms; whereas the number of farms in EU-27 declined between 2013 and 2016 from about 15 to 10 million (-32%) with the strongest decline being among small farms 1a; _________________ 1a The Future of the European Farming Model: Socio-economic and territorial implications of the decline in the number of farms and farmers in the EU, 2022
Amendment 24 #
2022/2182(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A c (new)
Recital A c (new)
Ac. whereas farms run by managers of 40 years old or younger have the lowest income on average at EU level and that farms run by women have lower incomes in comparison with men 1a; _________________ 1a EU Farm economics overview, 2021
Amendment 25 #
2022/2182(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A a (new)
Recital A a (new)
Aa. whereas in 2020 slightly more than two thirds (68.4%) of farm managers in the EU’s 9.1 million holdings were male;
Amendment 28 #
2022/2182(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A d (new)
Recital A d (new)
Ad. whereas 72.3% of farm managers in the EU in 2020 had only practical experience, while barely 10.2% had full agricultural training and the remaining 17.5% only basic agricultural training;
Amendment 32 #
2022/2182(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A b (new)
Recital A b (new)
Ab. whereas farming remains a predominantly family activity as in 2020 almost nine in ten (86.1%) people who worked regularly in agriculture in the EU were the sole holder (farmer) or members of his/her family;
Amendment 50 #
2022/2182(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Points out that the low level of intergenerational renewal in farming, while part of a larger trend of demographic decline, is a general EU concern for the sector, affecting particularly remote rural areas; ;
Amendment 70 #
2022/2182(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Stresses that a fair and dignified income and quality of life for farmers and their families is essential in attracting young and new people to the sector and that Member States must devote at least 3% of their direct payments envelope to this objective;
Amendment 77 #
2022/2182(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. 6. Recalls that although the number of new entrants from outside the agricultural sector is growing, intra- family succession is still the dominant form of entry into farming;
Amendment 102 #
2022/2182(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7a. Points out that the Court of Justice of the European Union has been recognising in its rulings the specific nature of agricultural land as well as a set of public interests and objectives that can justify the establishment of land market regulation measures;
Amendment 111 #
2022/2182(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8a. Underlines that fears of retirement, primarily due to inadequate safety nets for pensioners, leads older farmers to use direct payments as a form of support in retirement and retain land;
Amendment 112 #
2022/2182(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 b (new)
Paragraph 8 b (new)
8b. Acknowledges the positive effect of CAP young’s farmers measures on the number of young farmers, in particular those located in more peripheral rural areas 1a; _________________ 1a SWD (2021) 78 final
Amendment 113 #
2022/2182(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 c (new)
Paragraph 8 c (new)
8c. Highlights the positive contribution of LEADER projects and initiatives to social inclusion and to challenges faced by young people, notably when prioritising youth in selection criteria and in setting up youth local action groups;
Amendment 157 #
2022/2182(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Calls on the Member States to develop coherent strategies to promote generational change, combining different measures in a complementary way, such as financial support, tax breaks and incentives, to improve links between EU policies and national and regional policies; calls on the Commission to promote the sharing of best practices between Member States in this regard, with a focus on increasing efficiency, simplification and accessibility when designing measures for young farmers;
Amendment 183 #
2022/2182(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)
Paragraph 13 a (new)
13a. Stresses that generational renewal needs both younger and older generations and therefore intergenerational cooperation and dialogue must be fostered;
Amendment 188 #
2022/2182(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Calls on the Member States to promote innovative models of intergenerational collaboration, such as partnerships, share farming or land- matching services; recalls the potential of the cooperation measures under the CAP Strategic Plans in this regard and regrets that only 5 Member States have made use of this possibility; calls on the Commission and Member States to ensure an enabling administrative framework that facilitates the adoption of these innovative approaches;
Amendment 224 #
2022/2182(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Calls on the Member States to regulate agricultural land markets in order to promote land access for young farmers by all means available, such as pre-emptive rights in favour of young farmers, price controls, acquisition caps or obligations to maintain agricultural activity; calls, furthermore, for the establishment of national plans aimed at facilitating land mobility;
Amendment 237 #
2022/2182(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Calls on the Member States to ensure the transparency of the rural land market, while maintaining up-to date public information on land markets and land planning, planning and ownership, communicating about land sales and monitoring land concentration;
Amendment 245 #
2022/2182(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Calls on the Commission to establish an EU observatory on farmland, as part of the Rural Observatory, to monitor, in particular, trends and prices for land sale and rental, tenancy regimes, as well as changes in farmland use and land abandonment;
Amendment 255 #
2022/2182(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 a (new)
Paragraph 20 a (new)
20a. Highlights that land lease is a viable alternative to gain access to land, locking fewer resources; calls on Member states to adopt policies to promote long- term land leasing, such as tax exemptions, providing security of tenure and time to invest
Amendment 310 #
2022/2182(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27
Paragraph 27
27. Insists that generational renewal remain a high priority in the future programming period in order to receive, namely on the CAP, to be supported in a mandatory and increased supportway;
Amendment 313 #
2022/2182(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27 a (new)
Paragraph 27 a (new)
27a. Encourages politicians, schools, media, farmers, local associations, to work together in promoting a positive image of farming and rural areas and to communicate on the farmer’s role in food production and environmental services;
Amendment 314 #
2022/2182(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27 b (new)
Paragraph 27 b (new)
Amendment 315 #
2022/2182(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27 c (new)
Paragraph 27 c (new)
27c. Stresses the importance of providing tailored advisory services, in particular to support young farmers and new entrants, prior to their installation and in the following years; highlights the potential of diversifying the models of advice to better address farmers diversity (e.g. peer-to-peer learning, mentoring schemes);
Amendment 316 #
2022/2182(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27 d (new)
Paragraph 27 d (new)
27d. Highlights the importance of integrating in the training schemes for new entrants and young farmers, in addition to the technical, business and digital contents, also contents on soft skills, communication, leadership, mental health and well-being, among others;
Amendment 317 #
2022/2182(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27 e (new)
Paragraph 27 e (new)
27e. Considers that diverse options of facilitating the farm transmission process should be fostered in public policies at European and national level, such as existing farms acting as incubators for start-up businesses or new models of business allowing progressive transfer of land and assets between a farmer and his/her successors
Amendment 322 #
2022/2182(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29
Paragraph 29
29. Underlines the role of young farmer’s organisations, cooperatives and farmer organisations in helping young farmers overcome barriers to installation, providing guidance services and enhancing their participation in the policy dialogue; calls for the gender-balanced representation of young farmers’ in their governance bodies to be ensured;
Amendment 328 #
2022/2182(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30
Paragraph 30
30. Underlines the impact and potential of digital technologies onfor young farmers' activities and business opportunities, and that a strong political commitment is required at all levels of policy implementation to ensure connectivity andbroadband infrastructure and connectivity and a particular focus on digital inclusion;
Amendment 331 #
2022/2182(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30 a (new)
Paragraph 30 a (new)
30a. Highlights the importance of reliable internet access for young farmers quality of life in rural areas, namely to overcome social isolation, access education and training opportunities, as well as for service provision;
Amendment 6 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 5
Citation 5
— having regard to the action plan entitled ‘Strategic Compass for Security and Defence – For a European Union that protects its citizens, values and interests and contributes to international peace and security’, which was approvdopted by the Council on 21 March 2022 and endorsed by the European Council on 25 March 2022,
Amendment 10 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 8
Citation 8
— having regard to the Response Force of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Response Force (NRF),
Amendment 24 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas the European Union has extensive experience in deploying multinational missions abroad in order to promote peace, security and progress in Europe and in the world; whereas these common security and defence policy (CSDP) missions regularly operate alongside and complement missions of the Member States, United Nations, NATO, international organisations and third countries;
Amendment 25 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas the European Union has extensive experience in deploying multinational mississions and operations abroad in order to promote peace, security and progress in Europe and in the world; whereas these common security and defence policy (CSDP) missions regularly operate alongside and complement missions of the Member States, United Nations, international organisations and third countries;
Amendment 27 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas the European Union has extensive experience in deploying multinational missions abroad in order to promote peace, security and progress in Europe and in the world; whereas these common security and defence policy (CSDP) missions regularly operate alongside and complement missions of the Member States, United Nations, and other international organisations and third countries;
Amendment 54 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E a (new)
Recital E a (new)
Ea. whereas candidate and association countries have also contributed to CSDP missions;
Amendment 66 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H
Recital H
H. whereas the Strategic Compass sets out EU-level action in many of these areas; whereas the European Defence Fund and the European Peace Facility are EU instruments which have already been deployed and that are designed to improve military capabilities and foster operational cooperation and burden- sharing abroad;
Amendment 72 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H a (new)
Recital H a (new)
Ha. whereas the European Defence Fund is an EU instrument which has already been deployed and is designed to improve military capabilities including regarding the industrial base;
Amendment 74 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H b (new)
Recital H b (new)
Amendment 77 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. whereas the Battlegroup Concept has helped develop multinational defence cooperation and interoperability, as well as transformation for rapid deployment and force modernisation, yet, despite these benefits, the non-use of this asset over a period of 15 years has been politically embarrassing given the EU’s aspirations in this area, and raises questions over the justifiability of its costs;
Amendment 82 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I a (new)
Recital I a (new)
Ia. whereas problems related to decision making and political will have structurally hampered the deployment of the EU Battlegroups since their creation in 2007;
Amendment 83 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J
Recital J
J. whereas in cases when EU battlegroups have not been used, individual EU Member States have often acted outside the EU framework instead, either on their own or with other EU or non-EU states, inevitably constraining, if not undermining, the EU’s stated aspiration for ‘integration’ across policy tools, institutions and actors in pursuit of common interests and values also in foreign policy, and also excluding both formal and informal democratic oversight and scrutiny through the European Parliament;
Amendment 86 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J
Recital J
J. whereas in cases when EU bBattlegroups have not been usdeployed, individual EU Member States have oftenccasionally acted outside the EU framework instead, either on their own or with other EU or non-EU states;
Amendment 89 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J a (new)
Recital J a (new)
Ja. whereas there has been confusion about the list of tasks for the Battlegroups;
Amendment 90 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J b (new)
Recital J b (new)
Jb. whereas the Battlegroups’ format has appeared insufficient to operate successfully in hostile environments and has also been considered not sufficiently adaptable to meet the variable needs of a range of crisis situations, while also the pace of political decision making and potential deployment have been criticised, particularly when compared with alternative national options to address quickly evolving problems on the ground;
Amendment 91 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J c (new)
Recital J c (new)
Jc. whereas the ‘costs lie were they fall' principle for Battlegroup funding provides no incentive for troop contributing Member States to actually deploy them during their standby period; whereas this has been an underlying reason for vetoes in troop contribution by Member States; whereas the additional costs for the use of a Battlegroup are also not covered largely, if not wholly, by common funding, yet giving further reasons to Member States on why the Battlegroup should not be used during their rotation turn;
Amendment 92 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J d (new)
Recital J d (new)
Jd. whereas the European External Action Service (EEAS) and the European Council have formally recognised financing of the Battlegroups as ‘the most significant obstacle; whereas evidence and previous examples suggest that it appeared to be much easier to come to a decision if there are no additional costs for nations involved;
Amendment 93 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J e (new)
Recital J e (new)
Je. whereas whenever Member States were unwilling to authorise the use of their Battlegroups despite a clear need, opportunity and feasibility to do so, they were not publicly called out and were allowed to save face; whereas this meant that each time the use of Battlegroups was discussed but did not materialise, a negative precedent was created that undermined the spirit of solidarity and cooperation; whereas instead of creating a virtuous circle whereby the successful use of the Battlegroup in one case would create political incentives and mutual obligations for their future use, a vicious circle emerged that eroded political willingness to use such asset;
Amendment 94 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J f (new)
Recital J f (new)
Jf. whereas the early years of the Battlegroups’ existence were marked by declining momentum for EU CSDP, particularly due to defence cuts after the 2008 financial crisis;
Amendment 95 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J g (new)
Recital J g (new)
Jg. whereas actual convergence among Member States in terms of threat priorities faced by the European Union and the need to be able to rapidly respond to them remained relatively limited; whereas the Strategic Compass considerably advances in this area through the common threat analysis, significantly addressing this issue;
Amendment 119 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital M
Recital M
M. whereas the Strategic Compass sets out a clear roadmap for implementing EU- level actions, in particular for transforming the EU battlegroup system,by establishing a rRapid dDeployment cCapacity (RDC) building on substantially modified EU Battlegroups and paving the way towards entrusting the implementation of specific CSDP tasks to a group of Member States within the Union framework in accordance with Articles 42(5) and 44 of the TEU;
Amendment 128 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital O
Recital O
O. whereas the practicalossible implementation of Article 44 of the TEU, as well as the establishment and operation of the EU RDC, should be considered among the main aspects of the CSDP on which the Vice- President of the European Commission / High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy (VP/HR) needs to regularly consult Parliament;
Amendment 130 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital O a (new)
Recital O a (new)
Oa. whereas potential participants in such coalitions of the willing apparently feared that the cost-benefit calculation is not favourable enough to justify the expected loss of control over the key parameters of an operation;
Amendment 133 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital P
Recital P
P. whereas, in line with Article 41 of the TEU and previous practice building on the experience of the European security and defence college, the administrative and operating expenditure for the RDC should be charged to the Union budget except for expenditure that is covered by the European Peace Facility, notwithstanding the possibility for participating Member States to make free- of-charge contributions to the RDC;
Amendment 158 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the VP/HR’s proposal, enshrined in the Strategic Compass, to establish anthe EU RDC; stresses the importance of the EU having the necessary capabilities and structures to take action rapidly and decisively during crises in order to serve and protect the Union’s citizens, interests and values across the world;
Amendment 160 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading 1 a (new)
Subheading 1 a (new)
Highlights that the RDC is a key element for the European Union's strategic autonomy and will represent a significant improvement of our capacities in security and defence; Highlights that the establishment of the RDC will create new security synergies and strengthen collective defence also in the relations with our partners;
Amendment 172 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 – introductory part
Paragraph 2 – introductory part
2. Strongly encourages the VP/HR to propose a Council Decision onthe establishing an EU RDC to protect the Union’s values and serve its interests along the following lines:
Amendment 179 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 – point a a (new)
Paragraph 2 – point a a (new)
(aa) The conceptual planning for the RDC should be focused, but not limited to, on crisis management tasks laid in TEU Article 43, but precepts of Article 42 and Solidarity Clause 222 should not be excluded;
Amendment 181 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 – point b
Paragraph 2 – point b
(b) The RDC’s tasks should include, but not be limited to, rescue and evacuation operations, initial entry and initial phase of stabilisation operations, temporary reinforcement of other missions, and acting as a reserve force to secure exit; the Council could assign further tasks as referred to under Article 44 of the TEU, and the duration and scope of the assignments should be consistent with resources allocated to the RDC; notes that flexibility should be introduced in task and scenario planning in order to be prepared to address all possible crisis situations;
Amendment 192 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 – point c
Paragraph 2 – point c
(c) The RDC should number at least 5 000 troops, excluding strategic enablers such as air and sea lift personnel, intelligence assets, special operations forces and medical evacuation and care units; the target number for the RDC should be at least between 7 000 and 10 000 troops in total; notes that an exact number of minimum troops can only be given after conceptual planners have analysed the potential scenarios;
Amendment 202 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 – point d
Paragraph 2 – point d
(d) The RDC should frequently simulate scenarios and hold joint exercises following uniform training and certification standards such as those in NATO; further notes that the term ‘non- permissive environment’ can refer to a terrorist or a conventional threat, but could also include all kinds of hybrid threats, such as cyber-attacks, information warfare or even weapons of mass destruction; notes that the RDC is not limited to use in such environment but also in so-called permissive environments if decided to;
Amendment 203 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 – point d
Paragraph 2 – point d
(d) The RDC should frequently simulate scenarios and hold joint exercises following uniform training and certification standards such as those in NATO; notes that the scenarios should cover, among others, two guidelines in the Strategic Compass: a) operations in a ‘non-permissive environment’, and b) the suggested role division with NATO and the related most likely geographical areas for the RDC to focus on;
Amendment 208 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 – point d
Paragraph 2 – point d
(d) The RDC should frequently simulate scenarios and hold joint exercises at the strategic, joint forces and tactical level, to be scheduled by the HR/VP, following uniform training and certification standards such as those in NATO;
Amendment 214 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 – point d a (new)
Paragraph 2 – point d a (new)
(da) The Commander of the RDC should the Director General of the EU Military Staff (EUMS) or a commanding officer with the same rank and it should be organised according to the common scheme of European multinational joint staffs;
Amendment 233 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 – point g
Paragraph 2 – point g
(g) Similarly, its operating expenditure should be funded from the Union budget with the exception of expenditure that is charged to the European Peace Facility; notes that EPF budget rules permit it, ‘if the Council so decides’; encourages the Council to decide positively in such cases;
Amendment 241 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 – point g a (new)
Paragraph 2 – point g a (new)
(ga) Since the RDC will be constituted of up to 10000 troops that will train and ultimately go into action together, the soldiers should be able to enjoy the same working and social rights;
Amendment 245 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
Amendment 256 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Notes that the increase in ambition of the RDC compared to Battlegroups is primarily in quality because it solves the shortfall of the Battlegroups, which lacked high readiness air and sea components and strategic enablers; considers that the RDC has great potential to substantially improve on the Battlegroups, strengthen the EU’s strategic autonomy, and positively contribute to the EU’s integrated approach to security and peace;
Amendment 257 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 b (new)
Paragraph 3 b (new)
3b. Considers that the EU Battlegroup Concept suffers from structural design flaws as Battlegroup contributor nations on standby are supposed to act in relation to needs on the ground, and to protect the Union’s values and serve its interests as laid down in the EU’s Treaties, EU strategic documents and concrete policies, while in practice, Battlegroup contributor states still undertook national cost-benefit calculations each time a request for deployment was made, and did not hesitate to cast their veto even if they preferred to provide alternative justifications; calls on the Member States to transform the EU Battlegroup System to match the needs of the Capacity; considers that the EU Battlegroups should be funded from the Union budget during their stand-up, stand-by and stand-down phases;
Amendment 258 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 c (new)
Paragraph 3 c (new)
3c. Acknowledges that it is only natural that Member States have their own strategic cultures that may differ in important aspects, like perception of the most salient threats, willingness to use lethal force and accept risks, authorisation requirements and scrutiny by parliaments and public opinion, and attitudes towards key partners, but yet there needs to be further steps towards greater convergence over this issues given the common challenges the EU and its Member States face;
Amendment 259 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 d (new)
Paragraph 3 d (new)
3d. Calls for, insofar the EU RDC relies on rotating units and reformed Battlegroups, the rotation period of six months for Member States be extended to remove incentives on Member States to delay decision making when it is ‘their turn’, keeping in mind that smaller countries may not be able to maintain those long periods and should be allowed to rotate faster;
Amendment 260 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 e (new)
Paragraph 3 e (new)
3e. Points out that more than 50% of the seven years budget of the EPF has already been spent towards assisting Ukraine counter the Russian invasion, with five more years to go, which can significantly frustrate the development and use of the RDC; notes therefore that decisions need to be taken on how to increase the budget in order to come back to the agreed levels for the remaining years while maintaining the necessary assistance to Ukraine;
Amendment 261 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 f (new)
Paragraph 3 f (new)
3f. Calls on the Member States and EEAS to urgently address structural gaps in strategic enablers through utilising the EU Military Committee’s, European Defence Agency’s and EDF’s expertise and capacities in combination with coordinated efforts through the Permanent Structured Cooperation framework; stresses that these strategic enablers need to be tailor-made for the RDC’s needs and will be prioritised for its use; calls on the Commission and the HR/VP to also identify the financial needs to address those gaps;
Amendment 262 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 g (new)
Paragraph 3 g (new)
3g. Highlights that the VP/HR should have a major role in synchronising actions with NATO such that the EU ambition is not frustrated by NATO and vice versa;
Amendment 269 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Considers that the bulk of the RDC modules should need to stay at a standard readiness level, except those for high urgency tasks; notes that, depending on the security situation, the MPCC could decide to increase the readiness of modules which might be necessary for a specific mission;
Amendment 274 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 b (new)
Paragraph 4 b (new)
4b. Notes that the EU RDC should also serve as a driver for capability development, in particular with regard to solving European shortfalls in the area of strategic enablers;
Amendment 275 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 c (new)
Paragraph 4 c (new)
4c. Points out that the EU should interact and coordinate with NATO in order to create synergies between the readiness categories of the EU RDC and the NATO Response Force;
Amendment 276 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 d (new)
Paragraph 4 d (new)
4d. Notes that given that the EU RDC deployment depends on the short notice availability of Communication and Information Structures (CIS), development of integrated CIS structures at the European level is advisable, including drawing on the EU's secure connectivity programme;
Amendment 277 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 e (new)
Paragraph 4 e (new)
4e. Considers that the EU Satellite Centre should provide their services and expertise to the EU RDC and calls for the future necessary arrangements to be made, including ensuring that adequate funding is made available to EUSatCen under the relevant headings of the Multiannual Financial Framework;
Amendment 278 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 f (new)
Paragraph 4 f (new)
4f. Recalls that sustained investment in solving Europe’s military shortfalls should be sought by European collaboration also, instead of by only seeking national solutions, as it is a basic requirement to effectively realise the EU RDC and therefore to successfully contributing in developing the EU as a serious and credible geopolitical actor;
Amendment 279 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 g (new)
Paragraph 4 g (new)
4g. Highlights that the aspirations expressed in the SC will only be met if Member States are able to increase their national defence capabilities;
Amendment 282 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Points out that the RDC should have permanent operational headquarters under the Military Planning and Conduct Capability in order to ensure its effectiveness; (MPCC), to ensure its effectiveness; stresses the need to bring the MPCC to full operational capacity and improve its capabilities through increasing the number of its permanent staff up to 350, relocating it to larger premises jointly with other CSDP-related structures such as the Civilian Planning and Conduct Capability, the EU Intelligence and Situation Centre and the EUMS, and urgently develop a dedicated communication and information system for its needs; notes that is advisable to keep one or more national ‘High Readiness’ OHQs as a fall-back option to anticipate a scenario in which multiple crises present themselves at the same time;
Amendment 292 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Points out that ultimately, the RDC should build-up on the Military Planning and Conduct Capability (MPCC) towards a full architecture of Operation Headquarters (OHQ), able to conduct all EU military operations by offering the opportunity to centralise military and strategic command and control in Brussels, and allowing to coordinate also with actors responsible for civilian crisis management as well as having fluid interlocution with the EEAS and the European Commission;
Amendment 295 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 b (new)
Paragraph 5 b (new)
5b. Considers that, in order to avoid the risk of decisions about the creation and design of the RDC becoming disconnected from the core aspirations of the EU’s integrated approach, the HR/VP should regularly inform the European Parliament as stated in TEU Article 36, and the European Parliament should check and demand that all EU actions are sufficiently coordinated to maximise coherence and effectiveness;
Amendment 299 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Calls for the EU RDC to have the possibility tof being deployed and act ing in case of emergenciesy, natural disasters such as floods or wildfires, or other significant civil- protection criseis inside EU territory, where possible, at the proposal of the VP/HRHR/VP, in close coordination with the EU Civil Protection Mechanism and following the pertinent authorisation procedures;
Amendment 309 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Highlights the potential of the EU RDC to positively contribute to the Commission's RESCEU approach, especially in matters such as forest fire fighting inside EU territory;
Amendment 310 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 b (new)
Paragraph 6 b (new)
6b. Highlights the positive contribution of the European aerospace industry to our defence and civil protection capabilities, and in particular Airbus’ success in equipping the A400M as a firefighter tank plane, and the future FCAS system led by France, Germany and Spain;
Amendment 314 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 – introductory part
Paragraph 7 – introductory part
7. Calls on the Member States participating in the RDC to agree to act in the name of the European Union as mandated by the Council under Article 44 of the TEU and to thereby use all the tools in the Treaty to increase credibility, flexibility, and efficiency of the EU’s crisis management:
Amendment 329 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Considers that the political and economic incentives need to change in order to improve the prospects for using Article 44; calls for greater access to common funding for additional costs to Member States utilising Article 44 and greater flexibility concerning operational decisions and the drafting of the Crisis Management Concept and Operational Plan; suggests the use of scenarios to simulate potential use of Article 44 in advance and to clarify associated modalities;
Amendment 332 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8a. Considers that incentives for the use of the RDC need to change in order to allow greater proportion of the costs to be carried from the EU common budget, or at least the costs which cannot be planned for; for the Council to provide more freedom to these coalitions for instance, by letting them write the operating plan, especially in situations when speed is essential; in making oversight requirements for operations proportionate and reasonable, rather than requiring such coalitions to seek a unanimous agreement for every small operational change; and ensuring that Article 44 covers the whole operation, not just parts of it;
Amendment 334 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Highlights that the use of Article 44 offers significant benefits compared to Member States acting outside the EU framework in situations where troop deployment needs to be rapid to prevent further escalation and where the risks to combat troops are at the higher end;
Amendment 337 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Highlights that the use of Article 44 offers significant benefits such as speed, flexibility and freedom of action, whilst preserving joint EU action compared to Member States acting outside the EU framework;
Amendment 339 #
2022/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 a (new)
Paragraph 9 a (new)
9a. Calls on the Member States and the RDC to follow the EU’s integrated approach to ensure effective coordination of an EU response throughout the different phases of a crisis or conflict, combining defence and security activities with development and diplomatic actions;
Amendment 10 #
2022/2079(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. UnderlineRegrets that the EU’s defence sector is fragmented, which creates strategic vulnerabilities for the Union, Member States and industry; is concerned about the lack of coordination and calls for more strategic cohesion in security and defence policies at Union level; welcomes, in this context, the Commission’s launch of the European Defence Industry Reinforcement through common Procurement Act (EDIRPA) and encourages the Commission and Member States to take this initiative a step further and strive towards a de facto military ugenuine European Defence Union supported by a strongly articulated common market for defence equipment, followed by a review of the Treaties for more EU competences on critical technologies for defence,and innovation in defence, and security and defence affairs;
Amendment 18 #
2022/2079(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Calls on the relevant EU bodies to consolidate EU cooperative frameworks for developing cutting-edge military capabilities and for EU-level legislation to coordinate Member States’ strategies for critical technologies and to reduce dependencies; underlines, in this regard, the need to collaboratively invest in the research and development of emerging and disruptive technologies;
Amendment 25 #
2022/2079(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Amendment 26 #
2022/2079(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 b (new)
Paragraph 2 b (new)
2 b. Calls on the Commission to assess the coherence and complementarity of existing EU programmes with a view to identifying support gaps and promoting synergies; calls for this assessment to be taken into account when preparing the next multiannual financial framework (MFF); calls, likewise, for increased funding opportunities for defence to be considered within the context of the upcoming MFF review;
Amendment 30 #
2022/2079(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Calls on the Commission to encourage Member States to review all defence programmes and policy tools, check if they are still fit for purpose, and summarise findings; suggestconsiders that the European Defence Agency can provide light touch(EDA) is well placed to ensure the coherence of innovation activities among European actors in the defence sector; calls, in this regard, for the strengthening of its role in providing support and coordination suggestions, includ for Member States, following a strategic assessment of the findings;
Amendment 41 #
2022/2079(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Calls for a more pragmatic and business-orientneeds-based approach to military research in order to provide incentives for innovation in military technology, including by reducing or removing barriers to entry into the defence market; further calls for increased support for European companies in emerging technologies to ensure they remain competitive in international markets by relaxing the rules on compliance documentation and by providing tax incentives andwith a view to stimulating investments;
Amendment 42 #
2022/2079(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4 a. Underlines the need to direct investments in ways which least distort competition on the Single Market and maintain fair, open and efficient competition in defence procurement; calls, in this regard, on the Commission to ensure the full enforcement of the Procurement Directive in all Member States;
Amendment 43 #
2022/2079(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 b (new)
Paragraph 4 b (new)
4 b. Stresses the need to ensure and increase the participation of start-ups and small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) in defence initiatives; recognises the importance of support for overcoming technological, financial, administrative, regulatory and other barriers for entry to the market; calls for measures to raise awareness about EU programmes and funding opportunities and to provide support and training for facilitating market entry;
Amendment 44 #
2022/2079(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Underlines the needRecognises that the lack of skills constitutes a significant challenge for sustaining and strengthening the European security and defence industries; underlines the need to take an inclusive and accessible approach in reaching out to all available workforce with a view to ensuring a continuous and sustainable supply of skills and human capital; encourages, in this regard, measures to stimulate the development of skills for innovation, research and development (R&D), and fundamental research in critical areas related to emerging technologies; calls on the Commission to encourage Member States to establish and fund defence innovation hubs;
Amendment 52 #
2022/2079(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5 a. Underlines that many critical technologies for security and defence increasingly originate in the civilian sector and use dual-use components; stresses, in this regard, the need to strengthen synergies between civilian and defence research and innovation with a view to reducing strategic dependencies, facilitating the sharing of knowledge, enhancing the use of dual-use products and broadening funding opportunities;
Amendment 56 #
2022/2079(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 b (new)
Paragraph 5 b (new)
5 b. Notes that the adoption of common standards across sectors has the potential to contribute to cost savings, innovation and increased interoperability; calls, in this regard, on the Commission to accelerate work on the harmonisation of standards between civil, defence and space industries;
Amendment 58 #
2022/2079(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 c (new)
Paragraph 5 c (new)
5 c. Underlines the need for increased resource efficiency, promotion of recycling of materials, and uptake of sustainable technology solutions; calls on the Commission to accelerate work on the development and application of sustainable security and defence technologies;
Amendment 59 #
2022/2079(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 d (new)
Paragraph 5 d (new)
5 d. Recognises that a secure supply of critical materials, such as rare earth materials, components, and technologies is crucial for the European security and defence industries and the EU’s ability to safeguard its interests; underlines the importance of diversifying supply chains as a means of reducing dependencies on individual third countries;
Amendment 62 #
2022/2079(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Is concerned about the EU’s dependence on individual third countries, such as China, for raw materials and calls on Member States to reduce their vulnerabilities resulting from dependence on non-democratic suppliers of critical technologies and materials, to avoid the emergence of new dependencies which risk weakening security of supply, and to enhance defence production chains in Europe by localising or near-shoring production;
Amendment 67 #
2022/2079(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Expresses its support for the Observatory of Critical Technologies; calls on Member States to commit and strengthen collaboration within the framework of the Observatory and for it to be further developed and for its analysis capabilities, including on reducing strategic dependencies, to be enhanced; recognises that the Observatory deals with highly sensitive and classified information; calls, in this regard, for setting up safeguards and building trust among stakeholders with a view to enabling the sharing of information and appropriate handling of data; calls on the Commission to implement a project to continuously map the need for critical materials, evaluate the EU’s strategic dependencies, monitor supply and demand and changes in the behaviour or strategy of competitors, and engage in foresight exercises to predict new needs in critical materials; urges the EU to take an active role in international cooperation forums in order to accelerate the diversification of production chains; considers that these efforts should be made jointly with our strategic partners in NATO and included in, such as those in NATO and within the framework of a Trade and Technology Council (TTC) working group in order to coordinate diplomatic efforts to secure supplies and ensure alternative sources;
Amendment 79 #
2022/2079(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Calls for military and strategic interoperability and strategic alignment between the EU and like- minded partners as well as with the United States and NATO, and among Member States, to be ensured, given that the risk of fragmentation is exacerbated by different national requirements and national public spending and, investment and procurement schemes;
Amendment 80 #
2022/2079(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Amendment 81 #
2022/2079(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 b (new)
Paragraph 8 b (new)
8 b. Underlines the importance of a strong transatlantic bond as reflected in the EU Strategic Compass and in the NATO Strategic Concept; welcomes the signing of the Joint Declaration on EU- NATO Cooperation on 9 January 2023; calls on the EU and NATO to maintain global technological leadership in military capabilities; welcomes the commitment of the Commission and High Representative to explore possibilities for mutually beneficial cooperation on initiatives in the field of critical technologies;
Amendment 82 #
2022/2079(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 c (new)
Paragraph 8 c (new)
8 c. Considers that the EU is well placed to promote responsible activities as well as good governance and technologies globally, including through its partnerships; urges the Commission and Member States to take global leadership in developing standards that reflect and promote the Union’s interests and values;
Amendment 84 #
2022/2079(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. CEmphasises the need to secure and protect critical European infrastructure and ensure sufficient monitoring and surveillance; calls on the Commission to work on a plan and investment scheme in cooperation with Member States to update critical infrastructure, such as nuclear power plants, electricity grids and telecommunications infrastructure (undersea cables), for the digital age, including by adapting it to AI-assisted drone supervision and maintenance and in line with the new Directive on the resilience of critical infrastructure (CER Directive) and the Revised Directive on security of network and information systems (NIS2 Directive); subsequently calls for the elaboration of an EU R&D and manufacturing strategy for advanced drones;
Amendment 90 #
2022/2079(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9 a (new)
Paragraph 9 a (new)
9 a. Calls for measures to mitigate risks for companies that produce critical technologies and face acquisition by entities established in third countries; urges Member States to put in place national screening mechanisms for foreign direct investment (FDI) with potential implications for security;
Amendment 91 #
2022/2079(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9 b (new)
Paragraph 9 b (new)
9 b. Reiterates its call on the Commission to develop a stronger regulatory framework to the FDI Screening Regulation, including provisions on monitoring and review of takeovers of companies in sectors vital for security and defence technologies by entities under direct or indirect control of non-partner third countries;
Amendment 100 #
2022/2079(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Urges the Commission and Member States to strengthen cooperation betweenamong the European Union's Defence Innovation Scheme (EUDIS), the EDA’s defence innovation hub and NATO’s Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA) by supporting joint projects, joint research and joint investment in cutting-edge defence technologies.;
Amendment 3 #
2022/2078(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 38 a (new)
Citation 38 a (new)
– having regard to the Treaty on Principles Governing the Activities of States in the Exploration and Use of Outer Space, including the Moon and Other Celestial Bodies (A/RES/2222 (XXI)) of 19 December 1966,
Amendment 4 #
2022/2078(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 39 a (new)
Citation 39 a (new)
– having regard to the Treaty banning nuclear weapon tests in the atmosphere, in outer space and under water of 5 August 1963,
Amendment 5 #
2022/2078(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 40 a (new)
Citation 40 a (new)
– having regard to the Convention on the Prohibition of Military or any Other Hostile use of Environmental Modification Technique of 10 December 1976,
Amendment 6 #
2022/2078(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 40 b (new)
Citation 40 b (new)
– having regard to the Climate Change and Defence Roadmap of 9 November 2020,
Amendment 44 #
2022/2078(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – indent 1 (new)
Paragraph 1 – indent 1 (new)
- Notes that the Climate Change and Defence Roadmap recognises climate change as a ‘threat multiplier that fundamentally affects our long-term security’ and sets out concrete actions to address the increasingly important climate and security nexus; stresses the importance of closely monitoring and reporting on climate change through the use of EU space capabilities due to its crucial consequences on the Union’s security, its effect on conflicts in neighbouring regions, migration flows, and implications on food security, energy production and international trade;
Amendment 46 #
2022/2078(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Notes that the upsurge in risks and threats in space is good reason to bolsternecessitates a major improvement to the resilience of European space infrastructure, systems and services;
Amendment 54 #
2022/2078(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Notes that 11 of the 27 Member States have already introduced national space laws; welcomes the Commission’s initiative to propose space legislation for the EU establishing a common, harmonised and coherent security framework to bolster the resilience of EU space services and prevent excessive fragmentation of the global space market; points out that this framework is eagerly awaited by the Member States and the main industrial players in the space sectorwider space industry, including major industrial players and SMEs; emphasises the need to establish an effective regulatory framework for new space companies based in the European Union, with significant emphasis on protective measures and information security, in alignment with the security needs of the Union;
Amendment 64 #
2022/2078(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Calls for the regulatory and capacity resources for space traffic management to be boosted with the aim of better protecting the EU’s infrastructure in orbit; calls on the Member States to consolidate their efforts in the field of space surveillance and the tracking of objects in an effort to reducing the risk of collision; calls for increased international cooperation in the field of space traffic management;
Amendment 72 #
2022/2078(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Calls for the IRIS² secure connectivity constellation to be swiftly set up and made ready for use with a view to providing constant access to secure and sovereign connectivity services that meet the Member States’ operational needs; tactical and strategical needs, including governmental applications in domains such as crisis management, protection of key government infrastructure and surveillance; notes the importance of satellite-based secure connectivity, including through the use of quantum encryption as well as space-based earth observation as critical enablers; furthermore, emphasises the importance of IRIS² towards the effective implementation of the EU’s Common Security and Defence Policy, through supporting its ongoing missions abroad, providing secure connectivity for the Rapid Deployment Capacity, and in assisting crisis response efforts across the globe if necessary;
Amendment 81 #
2022/2078(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Takes the view that, with a view to maintaining continuity of service if an incident takes place, protective measures should be made more robust by systematically integrating cybersecurity requirements by design and throughout the lifespan of existing components; emphasises the need for constant cooperation with the private sector to further incorporate, and constantly update, cybersecurity measures during their design and protection process, through constant dialogue and exchange of best practices where possible;
Amendment 88 #
2022/2078(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Stresses that capacity for autonomous access to space is an essential element of European space policy; takes the view, therefore, that a special, synergy- based effort must be made to further the long-term production of European launchers and the long-term development of spaceports, furthering the EU’s strategic autonomy in the space domain and reducing dependence on third country launchers; emphasises the importance of the existence of geographical diversified spaceports and launch complexes;
Amendment 102 #
2022/2078(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Notes that, given the intensification of threats in the space sector, the EU and its Member States must bolster their capabilities to detect, categorise and attribute a threat; notes with concern that the space and cyberspace domains as well as joint and enabling capabilities appear to be less funded than traditional domains such as air, land and maritime, as demonstrated in the 2022 Coordinated Annual Review on Defence Report;
Amendment 109 #
2022/2078(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Stresses that space domain awareness (SDA) is essential to attributing a threat and enabling Member States to take appropriate decisions in the event of a space attack; stresses that few Member States currently possess the necessary sensors for accurate SDA and thus strongly encourages the Member States to supply the information needed to attribute hostile behaviour, for which secure, robust and reliable communication and exchange capabilities at EU level will need to be established; further adds that information exchange should also include frequent exchange of best practices between Member States, with the participation of EU institutions;
Amendment 116 #
2022/2078(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Welcomes the proposal set out in the strategy to amend Decision 2021/698 with a view to attributing and addressing threats to space programme services; calls for more meaningful responses on solidarity mechanisms to be taken at EU level; calls for further work to be done to make the mutual assistance clause ready for use (Article 42(7) TEU) through testing and agreeing on the modalities for identifying an attack, attributing the attacker and preparing the necessary response mechanisms;
Amendment 118 #
2022/2078(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 – indent 1 (new)
Paragraph 11 – indent 1 (new)
- Calls for the further development of EU Hybrid Toolbox with the aim of addressing the different types of threats in the space domain;
Amendment 121 #
2022/2078(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Stresses that exercises are essential to testing and validating the EU’s response to space threats; as well as building a greater shared awareness towards space threats and cultivating a common strategic culture in the space domain;
Amendment 124 #
2022/2078(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Calls for the EU to adopt a genuine industrial policy and to be able to draw upon a competitive industry, including through the creation of Important Projects of Common European Interest (IPCEI) where necessary; takes the view that EU support to enable Member States to develop their capacity must primarily benefit European industrial players (both long-established groups and innovative SMEs); supports, at the same time, heavy investment in key technologies with the aim of reducing strategic dependence on third countries including through joint procurement of critical components and through securing the critical raw materials supply chains; emphasises the importance of the European Commission’s Observatory of Critical Technologies in detecting and monitoring the creation of dependenceies on third countries; calls on the European Commission to ensure the alignment between the Critical Raw Materials Act and the necessary needs of the space domain in the field of security and defence;
Amendment 138 #
2022/2078(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Stresses that, if space capabilities are to be developed, the resources allocated to space in the next multiannual financial framework must be stepped upubstantially increased; stresses, in particular, the need to increase funding for space traffic management and space surveillance with a view to protecting the EU’s space infrastructure and addressing threats; draws attention to the need to achieve coherence in and provide visibility for all the different types of funding allocated via instruments to European space policy;
Amendment 141 #
2022/2078(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Calls for coherence between existing instruments to be improved with a view to preventing unnecessary duplication of investments; considers it essential for funding to be properly channelled into those instruments, taking into account the capacities available at both EU and commercial level; supports joint programming between the European Developmentfence Fund, the EU Space Programme and Horizon Europe, Horizon Europe and the Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO) projects in an effort to speed up the development of relevant capacities; stresses the importance of synergies between EU and national – civilian, space and defence – programmes to meet capability needs;
Amendment 144 #
2022/2078(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Calls for the technical skills needed in public administration and businesses to be improved by further investing in trainingeducation and training; including through strong focus on the security and defence aspect of the space domain which can be organised by the European Security and Defence College where necessary; notes the importance of increased investment in space-related education at all educational levels, with a strong focus on greater gender equality in the field of space since only 30% of the workforce internationally is made up of women;
Amendment 154 #
2022/2078(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Believes that governance is unique to each component of the space programme; stresses that those components, which have major implications for the security of the Member States, require harmonised governance that involves the Member States and EU institutions that makes it possible to protect information;
Amendment 163 #
2022/2078(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Points out that governance must not duplicate existing means or circumvent Member States in areas such as threat attribution, which largely relies on national capabilities; stresses, in this regard, that SatCen’s experience and expertise and its trust-based relationship with Member States and industry can be usefully exploited in this area; emphasises the need to further increase SatCen’s funding to allow it to effectively execute its operations in light of increased demand for its products in recent years;
Amendment 165 #
2022/2078(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Notes that the changing geopolitical landscape must spur the EU and its Member States on to reach common and coordinated positions so that they are able to set standards; supports multilateral solutions, reached within the UN framework, in the area of space governance; calls on the European Union and its Member States to reaffirm the applicability of international humanitarian law; and to call for a revision of the Outer Space Treaty, Partial Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty and the Convention on the Prohibition of Military or any Other Hostile use of Environmental Modification Technique, bringing them in line with technological developments and the increased number of threats in space; notes the need for international legal frameworks aimed at structural regulation of the New Space actors;
Amendment 176 #
2022/2078(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Stresses the importance of developing cooperation with strategic partners; supports the continuation of an enhanced dialogue with the United States, while remaining vigilant to the risk that it may seek to steer or dictate outlooks, standards and rulesensuring the EU’s strategic autonomy, its ability to proactively act and decisively react to threats theo EU and Member States have not helped to shap’ assets and interests in space, and its role as an international power in space; calls for deeper cooperation and for alliances to be established with like-minthe broadedr states (the UK, Canada, Japan) or other EUet of EU strategic partners (India);
Amendment 182 #
2022/2078(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Notes that NATO is conducting strategic reflection in the space domain; notes, howeverfurther notes, that the EU, in its own right and through its Member States and own capabilities, already has more developed programmes, capacities and institutions that do not compete with these advances; calls for closer cooperation between the EU and NATO to be pursued in areas of shared interest, while ensuring that the roles, competences and autonomy of the two organisations are scrupulously maintained and updated through continuous dialogue and reflection;
Amendment 189 #
2022/2078(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Points out that the European Space Agency must continue to play its role as a technical agency for European satellite projects and that cooperation with it must be carried out within a framework which protects the essential interests of the Union; welcomes the ESA’s Civil Security from Space program which aims to foster the use of space-based solutions to act swiftly to support humanitarian responses, law enforcement, safety and emergency events, within and outside the EU;
Amendment 191 #
2022/2078(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24 – indent 1 (new)
Paragraph 24 – indent 1 (new)
- Calls on Member States to fully comply with the eight criteria on arms exports in line with Council Common Position 2008/944/CFSP, which includes space capabilities and components with military use, and that their national exports do not fuel regional tensions or undermine the security of other Member States, allies, partners or of the EU as a whole, while fully supporting the legitimate security and defence needs of allies and partner countries;
Amendment 11 #
2022/2051(INL)
Draft opinion
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas the CAP objectives in the European treaties have remained untouched over the last six decades despite the far-reaching changes undergone by it in line with the changes in society’s priorities and expectations, the climate and biodiversity crises, structural changes and modernisation in agriculture;
Amendment 20 #
2022/2051(INL)
Draft opinion
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas the Conference puts forward proposals and measures impacting agriculture and rural areas towards more climate and environmental sustainability and more animal welfare;
Amendment 22 #
2022/2051(INL)
Draft opinion
Recital C a (new)
Recital C a (new)
C a. Whereas the objectives of the primary legislation are no longer sufficient to meet the challenges of the agricultural sector today, and the objectives of the Common Agricultural Policy secondary legislation go beyond those in primary legislation; whereas this makes it clear that the objectives in the treaties need to be adapted to the challenges of the agricultural sector;
Amendment 32 #
2022/2051(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Considers that the current objectives of the CAP as referred to in the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (‘TFEU’) need adaptation towards enhanced social, economic and environmental sustainability and a higher level of animal welfare;
Amendment 49 #
2022/2051(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 – indent 1 – paragraph 1 – point a
Paragraph 2 – indent 1 – paragraph 1 – point a
(a) to ensure agricultural self- sufficiencyproductivity and food security which is in harmony with climate, environmental, water and animal protection, by promoting technical progress and ensuring the rational development of agricultural production and the sustainable utilisation of the factors of production;
Amendment 52 #
2022/2051(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 – indent 1 – paragraph 1 – point a a (new)
Paragraph 2 – indent 1 – paragraph 1 – point a a (new)
(a a) Proposes that item (b) be amended as follows: (b) to provide an adequate standard of living for the agricultural population, particularly by increasing the per capita income of persons engaged in agriculture, and providing a safe working environment and relationship for persons engaged in agriculture;
Amendment 67 #
2022/2051(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 – indent 1 – paragraph 1 – point da a (new)
Paragraph 2 – indent 1 – paragraph 1 – point da a (new)
(da a) to provide income opportunities for farmers by rewarding public services for climate, environmental, water and animal protection and thereby reward the specific impacts on agricultural land;
Amendment 70 #
2022/2051(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 – indent 1 – paragraph 1 – point da b (new)
Paragraph 2 – indent 1 – paragraph 1 – point da b (new)
(da b) ensure that agriculture and food systems function ecologically and economically in the long term;
Amendment 82 #
2022/2051(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 – indent 1 – paragraph 1 – point e a (new)
Paragraph 2 – indent 1 – paragraph 1 – point e a (new)
(e a) preserve the diversity of multifunctional, family and owner- operated farms in the agricultural sector;
Amendment 84 #
2022/2051(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 – indent 1 – paragraph 1 – point e b (new)
Paragraph 2 – indent 1 – paragraph 1 – point e b (new)
(e b) ensure policy coherence, particularly with regard to the achievement of development cooperation objectives;
Amendment 102 #
2022/2051(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 – indent 1 – paragraph 2 – point b a (new)
Paragraph 2 – indent 1 – paragraph 2 – point b a (new)
(b a) the need to attract sufficient numbers of young farmers and new entrants to farming to ensure the long- term viability and sustainability of the sector
Amendment 104 #
2022/2051(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 – indent 1 – paragraph 2 – point b b (new)
Paragraph 2 – indent 1 – paragraph 2 – point b b (new)
(b b) the need to ensure the protection of biodiversity and the conservation of habitats and landscapes;
Amendment 112 #
2022/2051(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2 a. In order to achieve the objectives set forth in Article 39, the following measures may be provided for within the framework of the common agricultural policy: (ba) joint measures to improve the environmental sustainability of activities and products under the common agricultural policy;
Amendment 1 #
2022/2040(INI)
Draft opinion
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
– having regard to the Regulation (EU) 2021/2115 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 2 December 2021 establishing rules on support for strategic plans to be drawn up by Member States under the common agricultural policy (CAP Strategic Plans) and financed by the European Agricultural Guarantee Fund (EAGF) and by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) and repealing Regulations (EU) No 1305/2013 and (EU) No 1307/2013;
Amendment 2 #
2022/2040(INI)
Draft opinion
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
– having regard to the Regulation (EU) 2021/2117 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 2 December 2021 amending Regulations (EU) No 1308/2013 establishing a common organisation of the markets in agricultural products, (EU) No 1151/2012 on quality schemes for agricultural products and foodstuffs, (EU) No 251/2014 on the definition, description, presentation, labelling and the protection of geographical indications of aromatised wine products and (EU) No 228/2013 laying down specific measures for agriculture in the outermost regions of the Union;
Amendment 3 #
2022/2040(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital A a (new)
Recital A a (new)
Aa. whereas food supply chains are increasingly vulnerable and at risk from the impacts of climate change and natural disasters such as drought, flood, pests and diseases, as well as logistical challenges which were intensified as a result of lockdowns and restrictions during the COVID pandemic, and most recently due to the illegal, unprovoked and unjustifiable Russian war of aggression against Ukraine;
Amendment 5 #
2022/2040(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital A b (new)
Recital A b (new)
Ab. whereas creating more resilience in food systems requires long term consistency and commitment to building more self-reliance and sustainability into European agricultural production and supply chains;
Amendment 18 #
2022/2040(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Considers the fact that recent supply chain disruption, notably caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine, has highlighted the EU agricultural sector’s reliance on complex import and export chains; calls for a shift to a sustainable, resilient and fair agricultural model anchored in the EU territories;
Amendment 21 #
2022/2040(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Highlights the resilience of the agri-food sector during the COVID-19 pandemic, its ability to maintain the functioning of the food supply chains and ensure food security in what were very difficult circumstances;
Amendment 33 #
2022/2040(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Notes that import dependency for inputs increases vulnerability of food producers to external shocks, as now observed in fuel, fertiliser and feed chains; calls for EU production to be recalibrated towards more domestic production and sustainable practices which reduce the need for inputs, and to focus primarily on EU demand for healthy food; calls on Member States to ensure greater farmer autonomy in this respect via the CAP strategic plans, notablyinter alia, through strong support for organic production and the organic sector as a whole;
Amendment 44 #
2022/2040(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Highlights that localised, short supply chains can contribute significantly to the resilience of food supply chains overall, which ensures profitable paths for production and distribution; stresses that actors in such chains can face specific challenges, such as weaker access to government supportpublic support measures; highlights the important role young farmers and small and medium farmers play in maintaining the economic resilience of rural areas and the functioning of the food supply chains; calls on Member States to provide strong support for cooperation measures under the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development in order to expand and strengthen the networks of small producers, along with more targeted and efficient measures to support young producers;
Amendment 53 #
2022/2040(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Reiterates that climate change and biodiversity loss pose a high risk of disrupting both primary production and logisticdue to crop damage and reduced harvests both in the short and longer term, and that measures taken to address these challenges are essential and valid measures towards having more resilient supply chains;
Amendment 58 #
2022/2040(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Is concerned that various factors contribute to logistical challenges which are more frequent and more serious than in the past, with disruption to international supply chains affecting imports of key materials or ingredients, as well as exports of goods from the EU, particularly in the agriculture and food sector, with such phenomena as border blockages requiring rapid deployment of Solidarity or Green Lanes to aid movement of key food and feed supplies, for example during the COVID pandemic and due to conflict situations;
Amendment 62 #
2022/2040(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 b (new)
Paragraph 4 b (new)
4b. Recognises that problems on a much larger scale have arisen due to the impact of the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine, highlighting the dependence of many non-EU countries on basic food supplies from Ukraine, and that this presents the EU and other regions with an urgent need to consider how to reconfigure food trade patterns in the years to come;
Amendment 63 #
2022/2040(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 c (new)
Paragraph 4 c (new)
4c. Recognises the possible impact of research and development of innovative agricultural technologies on the resilience of food production and distribution, stresses the need to ensure that the farmers, including small, medium and young farmers, have access to the benefits of such R&D;
Amendment 64 #
2022/2040(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Highlights that the health and labour conditions of agri-food workernegative impacts on the health, safety and working labour conditions of agri-food workers since 2020 have resulted in fewer people willing to work in countries other than their own, and has affected labour availability in the supply chain, and this requires a new approach to making the sector more appealing as a secure workplace, as well as to training for young people to expand the labour pool;
Amendment 72 #
2022/2040(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Stresses the need for market regulation and appropriate public provisions regarding strategic stocks, to tacklelessen the impacts of market crises and price volatility whether caused by natural disasters, failure of logistical bottlenecks or geopolitical crises, to secure supplyies and to prevent speculation; calls for market transparency and timely information on public and private stocks;
Amendment 89 #
2022/2040(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Stresses that EU engagement in global food governance must be directed at better WTO recognisetion and promoteion of the right to food, as well as the food sovereignty and security of its trading partners and their right to regulate their exports and stocks to secure their own needs.
Amendment 92 #
2022/2040(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7a. Believes strongly that resilient supply chains can only be guaranteed in the long term by the sustainability of production and the defence of producers against unfair competition, either from imports or from unfair practices, whether in the EU or in third countries.
Amendment 94 #
2022/2040(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 b (new)
Paragraph 7 b (new)
7b. In the face of rapidly rising food prices and inflation which is affecting food affordability, calls on the Commission and Council, together with Member States, to consider putting into action point 2 of article 40 of TFEU as regards to regulation of prices of basic food products.
Amendment 1 #
2022/2020(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital A a (new)
Recital A a (new)
Aa. having regard to the Financial Regulation applicable to the general budget of the Union of 18 July 20181a, and to the proposal for its revision1b; __________________ 1a OJ-L 193/30.07.2018, p. 1 1b COM(2022) 223 final - Proposal for Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the Union (recast)
Amendment 2 #
2022/2020(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
Ba. having regard to Regulation (EU) No 2021/2116 on the financing, management and monitoring (FMM) of the common agricultural policy (CAP);
Amendment 3 #
2022/2020(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital C a (new)
Recital C a (new)
Ca. having regard to the Annual Activity Report 2021 by the Directorate General for Agriculture and Rural Development of the European Commission;
Amendment 5 #
2022/2020(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Recalls that, from 1st January 2023, the budget of the CAP implemented under shared management will be subject to the provisions of Regulation (EU) No 2021/2116 on the financing, management and monitoring (FMM) of the common agricultural policy;
Amendment 6 #
2022/2020(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 b (new)
Paragraph 1 b (new)
1b. Recalls that the effectiveness and good reputation of the CAP depends on correct and efficient use of funds, for which audit and control are basic tools, and that the Commission’s audit role remains essential in assessing use of funds and contributing to the budget discharge process with the European Court of Auditors;
Amendment 9 #
2022/2020(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Recalls that under shared management, Member States are responsible for setting up a management and control system for payments and must ensure that it is capable of detecting and correcting irregularities; stresses that a distinction must be made between deliberate fraud and unintentional error, and suggests that Member States consider using an ad-hoc register where serious, intentional and repeated problems are identified;
Amendment 12 #
2022/2020(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Insists that, for the reputation of the CAP, the standard of control systems must be robust and fully compliant with its new Common Agricultural Policy regulations in order to secure the proper implementation, in particular, of the new delivery model from 1 January 2023, and encourages the exchange of best practices to ensure this across all Member States;
Amendment 19 #
2022/2020(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes that Member States execute payments to CAP beneficiaries through accredited paying agencies (PAs), which perform on-the-spot checks to ensure the eligibility of applications and the correct execution of payments; , and considers that these checks must be coordinated, rigorous and effective, without increasing the level of bureaucracy faced by farmers;
Amendment 21 #
2022/2020(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Amendment 22 #
2022/2020(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 b (new)
Paragraph 3 b (new)
3b. Welcomes the Commission’s proposals on IT use in the proposal for revision of the Financial Regulation3a particularly to include use of electronic systems and digital controls to ensure adequate audit trails; __________________ 3a COM(2022) 223 final, point (d) of Articles 36(2) and point (a) of Article 63 (4)
Amendment 25 #
2022/2020(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Notes the role of certification bodies (CBs) appointed as independent audit bodies by Member States; observes that CBscertification bodies already provide an opinion on the proper functioning of PAs’paying agencies' management and control systems, and since 2015;
Amendment 27 #
2022/2020(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Recalls that, from 1 January 2023, certification bodies must establish if Member States governance systems function properly, and whether expenditure is eligible according to the Financial Regulation4a; __________________ 4a Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 2021/2116 and in particular its Article 37
Amendment 29 #
2022/2020(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Recalls that the main objective of thise assurance model is to ensure that the remaining risk to the budget is below the materiality threshold of 2 %; recognises the low error rates for the European Agricultural Guarantee Fund and the continuous decrease in error rates for the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development over the past financial years; notes furthermore that the overall adjusted error rate for the CAP funds overall for 2021 is below the materiality rate of 2%, for the third year in a row, at 1.84%;
Amendment 38 #
2022/2020(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Approves of the simplifications introduced in the CAP for 2023-27, facilitating management by national authorities alongside their responsibilities for audit and control which must be carried out effectively to ensure errors and irregularities do not increase under this simplification;
Amendment 50 #
2022/2020(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Believes that digitalisation and the adoption of more sophisticated IT tools couldan improve the efficiency of the assurance process; supports the extension of the use of the risk-scoring tool Arachne. and particularly welcomes the references to this in the Financial Regulation revision proposal5a, referring to a single integrated IT system for data-mining and risk scoring; __________________ 5a Point (d) of Article 36(2), Article 36(6), Article 36(7) and Article 36(8)
Amendment 57 #
2022/2020(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8a. Stresses the importance of the correct implementation by the European Court of Auditors of the protection of the financial interest of the Union measures outlined in Regulation on control and penalties6a; __________________ 6a Title IV Chapter I
Amendment 59 #
2022/2020(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 b (new)
Paragraph 8 b (new)
8b. Considers that the new delivery model under the FMM regulation must not hamper the European Court of Auditors in its task of assessing effectiveness, efficiency and economy of expenditure of EU funds under the new arrangements for the Common Agricultural Policy; seeks reassurance that the documentation required by point (c) of Article 9(3) of the same Regulation will be sufficient for the Court of Auditors to be able to verify cases of non- compliance with eligibility criteria for individual beneficiaries as per its Article 55;
Amendment 62 #
2022/2020(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 c (new)
Paragraph 8 c (new)
8c. Welcomes the Commission’s explanations in its 2021 Annual Activity Report on action taken regarding conflicts of interest, particularly to ensure correct implementation in shared management by Member States authorities; welcomes likewise the adoption in 2021 and the dissemination of the Guidance on the avoidance and management of conflicts of interest under the Financial Regulation as a further measure for improvements in the way funds are administered and controlled;
Amendment 107 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 12
Recital 12
(12) In line with the waste hierarchy set out in Article 4(2) of Directive 2008/98/EC, and in line with life-cycle thinking to deliver the best overall environmental outcome, the measures provided for under this Regulation aim at reducing the amount of packaging placed on the market in terms of its volume and weight, and preventing the generation of packaging waste, especially through packaging minimisation, avoiding packaging where it is not needed, and increased re-use of packaging, when it can be demonstrated that re-usable packaging achieves higher environmental benefits compared to single-use packaging . In addition, the measures aim at increasing the use of recycled content in packaging, especially in plastic packaging where the uptake of recycled content is very low, as well as higher recycling rates for all packaging and high quality of the resulting secondary raw materials while reducing other forms of recovery and final disposal.
Amendment 112 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 14 a (new)
Recital 14 a (new)
(14a) Food packaging materials represents a positive contribution to the prevention of food loss and food waste along the supply chain, for example packaging that reduces food loss in transport, storage and distribution, and that preserves the quality and hygiene of food for longer, or that extends shelf life.
Amendment 114 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 15 a (new)
Recital 15 a (new)
(15a) Fostering a sustainable bio- economy can contribute to decreasing Europe's dependence on imported raw materials. Improving market conditions for bio-based recyclable packaging and compostable biodegradable packaging and reviewing existing law hampering the use of those materials offers the opportunity to stimulate further research and innovation and to substitute fossil fuel-based feedstocks with renewable sources for the production of packaging, where beneficial from a lifecycle perspective, and support further organic recycling.
Amendment 125 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 22
Recital 22
(22) In order to establish harmonised rules on packaging design to ensure its recyclability, without compromising its functionality, the power to adopt delegated acts should be delegated to the Commission to set out detailed criteria for packaging design for recycling per packaging materials and categories, as well as for the assessment of the packaging recyclability at scale including for categories of packaging not listed in this Regulation. In order to give economic operators and Member States sufficient time to collect and report the necessary data to establish the “at scale” recycling methodology, the manufacturers should ensure that packaging is recycled at scale as of 2035. That should ensure that packaging complies with the design for recycling criteria, and is also recycled in practice on the basis of the state of the art processes for separate collection, sorting and recycling.
Amendment 140 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 35
Recital 35
(35) The bio-waste waste stream is often contaminated with conventional plastics and the material recycling streams are often contaminated with compostable plastics. This cross-contamination leads to waste of resources, lower quality secondary raw materials and should be prevented at source. As the proper disposal route for compostable plastic packaging is becoming increasingly confusing for consumers, it is justified and necessary to lay down clear and common rules on the use of compostable plastic packaging, mandating it only when its use brings a clear benefit for the environment or for human health. This is particularly the case when the use of compostable packaging helps collect or dispose of bio-waste. . This contamination leads to environmental and economic impacts and waste of resources and should be prevented at source. Mandating compostable plastic packaging for applications strictly linked to food and food waste, may help to reduce this contamination. Therefore, , it is justified and necessary to lay down clear and common rules on the use of compostable plastic packaging, mandating it only when its use brings a clear benefit for the environment or for human health. This is particularly the case when the use of compostable packaging helps collect or dispose of bio-waste. The EN 13432 standard “Packaging - Requirements for packaging recoverable through composting and biodegradation" specifies requirements and procedures to determine the compostability and anaerobic treatability of packaging and packaging materials in industrial controlled conditions and should represent the harmonised specification of what packaging can be considered compostable and biodegradable across Member States.
Amendment 142 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 36
Recital 36
(36) For limited packaging applications made of biodegradable plastic polymersThere is a demonstrable environmental benefit of using compostable packaging for specific packaging applications, in particular those strictly linked to food and food waste prevention, there is a demonstrable environmental benefit of using compostable packaging, which enters composting plants, including anaerobic digestion facilities under controlled conditions. Furthermore, where appropriate waste collection schemes and waste treatment infrastructures are available in a Member State, there should be a limited flexibility in deciding whether to mandate the use of compostable plastics for lightweight plastic carrier bags on its territory. In order to avoid consumer confusion about the correct disposal and considering the environmental benefit of circularity of the carbon, all other plastic packaging should go into material recycling and the design of such packaging should ensure that it does not affect the recyclability of other waste streams.
Amendment 148 #
2022/0396(COD)
(40) Packaging should be designed so as to minimise its volume and weight while maintaining its ability to perform the packaging functions. The manufacturer of packaging should assess the packaging against the performance criteria, as listed in Annex IV of this Regulation. In view of the objective of this Regulation to reduce packaging and packaging waste generation and to improve circularity of packaging across the internal market, it is appropriate to further specify the existing criteria and to make them more stringent. The list of the packaging performance criteria, as listed in the existing harmonised standard EN 13428:200057, should therefore be modified. While marketing and consumer acceptance remain relevant for packaging design, they should not be part of performance criteria justifying on their own additional packaging weight and volume. However, this should not compromise product and packaging specifications for craft and industrial products and food and agricultural products that are registered andEU geographical indications, and or otherwise protected by under the Union intellectual property law or agreements between the EU and third countries which recognise EU geographical indication protection schemes, as part of the Union’s objective to protect intellectual property, cultural heritage and traditional know-how. On the other hand, recyclability, the use of recycled content, and re-use may justify additional packaging weight or volume, and should be added to the performance criteria. Packaging with double walls, false bottoms and other characteristics only aimed to increase the perceived product volume should not be placed on the market, as it does not meet the requirement for packaging minimisation. The same rule should apply to superfluous packaging not necessary for ensuring packaging functionality. _________________ 57 Packaging – Requirements specific to manufacturing and composition – Prevention by source reduction.
Amendment 163 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 61
Recital 61
(61) In orderPackaging should contribute to ensure a high level of environmental protection in the internal market, as well as a high level of food safety and hygiene, food waste prevention and comply with the EU food traceability requirements and facilitate the achievement of the packaging waste prevention targets, u. Unnecessary or avoidable packaging that do not contribute to these aims, should not be allowed to be placed on the market. The list of such packaging formats is provided in Annex V of this Regulation. In order to adapt the list to the technical and scientific progress the power to adopt acts in accordance with Article 290 of the Treaty should be delegated to the Commission to amend the list.
Amendment 166 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 61 a (new)
Recital 61 a (new)
(61a) The Regulation No 1308/20131a applies to products of the fruit and vegetables sector which are intended to be sold fresh to the consumer and that may only be marketed if they are sound, fair and of marketable quality and if the country of origin is indicated. These marketing standards referred to in paragraph 1, should apply at all marketing stages including packaging. _________________ 1a Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 December 2013 establishing a common organisation of the markets in agricultural products and repealing Council Regulations (EEC) No 922/72, (EEC) No 234/79, (EC) No 1037/2001 and (EC) No 1234/2007 (OJ L 347)
Amendment 185 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 90
Recital 90
(90) Waste prevention is the most efficient way to improve resource efficiency and to reduce the environmental impact of waste. It is important therefore that economic operators take appropriate measures to reduce the waste generation by eliminating excessive packaging and restrict the uses of certain packaging formats, extending the life span of packaging, re-designing products so that no packaging or less packaging can be used, including bulk sales, and by shifting from single use packaging to reusable packaging. The Commission should assess the link between these measures and the setting of EU food waste reduction targets.
Amendment 197 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1
Article 1 – paragraph 1
1. This Regulation establishes requirements for the entire life cycle of packaging as regards environmental sustainability and labelling, to allow its placing on the market, as well as for the extended producer responsibility, prevention, collection, treatment and recycling of packaging waste.
Amendment 212 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 29 a (new)
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 29 a (new)
(29a) 'traceability’ means the ability to trace and follow a food, feed, food- producing animal or substance intended to be, or expected to be incorporated into a food or feed, through all stages of production, processing and distribution;
Amendment 222 #
2022/0396(COD)
(41) ‘compostable packaging’ means packaging capable of undergoing physical, chemical, thermal or biological decomposition such that most of the finished compost ultimately decomposes into carbon dioxide, mineral salts, biomass and water, according to Article 47(4), and does not hinder the separate collection and the composting process or activity into which it is introduced in industrially controlled conditions in accordance with European harmonised standards for packaging recoverable through composting and anaerobic digestion;
Amendment 239 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 1
Article 6 – paragraph 1
1. All packagingFrom 1 January 2030, all packaging placed on the market shall be recyclable.
Amendment 240 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Article 6 – paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Member States shall endeavour to phase out the disposal of packaging waste compliant with Article 6(2).
Amendment 241 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point a
Article 6 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point a
(a) it is designed for recycling or for compostable packaging is compliant with point a), b) and c) of Annex III;
Amendment 313 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 6
Article 7 – paragraph 6
6. By 1 January 2030, the financial contributions paid by producers to comply with their extended producer responsibility obligations as laid down in Article 40 shall be modulated based on the percentage of recycled content or bio-based content used in the packaging.
Amendment 315 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 7
Article 7 – paragraph 7
7. By 31 December 2026, the Commission is empowered to adopt implementing acts establishing the methodology for the calculation and verification of the percentage of recycled content recovered from post-consumer plastic waste, per unitbatch of plastic packaging, and the format for the technical documentation referred to in Annex VII. Those implementing acts shall be adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in Article 59(3).
Amendment 326 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 11 a (new)
Article 7 – paragraph 11 a (new)
11a. By 31 December 2026, the Commission shall publish a report assessing: (a) the possibility to introduce bio- based feedstock targets for plastic packaging, considering their potential contribution to meet the targets set out in Article 7(1) and (2); (b) sustainability requirements for bio-based feedstock; the Commission shall consider the existing sustainable criteria laid down in Article 29 of Directive (EU) 2018/2001 when assessing requirements for non-fossil bio-based feedstock. 2. Based on the assessment set out in the report referred to in paragraph 1, the Commission is empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with Article 58 to supplement this Regulation in order to: (a) establish bio-based targets used in plastic packaging towards achievements of the recycled content targets under Article 7(1) and (2); (b) establish sustainability requirements for bio-based feedstocks to be eligible to contribute towards the targets.
Amendment 328 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 1
Article 8 – paragraph 1
1. By [OP: please insert the date = 24 months from the entry into force of this Regulation], packaging referred to in Article 3(1), points (f) and (g), sticky labels attached to fruit and vegetables and, very lightweight plastic carrier bags, bags for fruits and vegetables or for other food sold loose, required for hygiene reasons or where it is demonstrated that contribute to prevent food waste, shall be compostable in industrially controlled conditions in bio-waste treatment facilities.
Amendment 341 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 5 a (new)
Article 8 – paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. The Commission shall, no later than 31 May 2026, request the European standardisation organisations to update the harmonised standard on the requirements for packaging recoverable through composting and biodegradation - test schemes and evaluation criteria. This standard shall consider the composting times, admissible levels of visual contamination and other requirements needed to reflect the actual conditions in the bio-waste treatment facilities, including anaerobic digestion processes, in line with the scientific and technological developments.
Amendment 346 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 1
Article 9 – paragraph 1
1. Packaging shall be designed so that its weight and volume is reduced to the minimum necessary for ensuring its functionalitys, as laid down in Article 3 paragraph 1, taking account of the material that the packaging is made of.
Amendment 349 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 2
Article 9 – paragraph 2
2. Packaging not necessary to comply with any of the performance criteria set out in Annex IV and packaging with characteristics that are only aimed to increase the perceived volume of the product, including double walls, false bottoms, and unnecessary layers, shall not be placed on the market, unless the packaging design is subject to geographical indications of origin and/or intellectual property right protected under Union legislation.
Amendment 385 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 22 – paragraph 1
Article 22 – paragraph 1
1. EWithout prejudice to traceability requirements laid down in Article 18 of the Regulation n. 178/2002 1a,economic operators shall not place on the market packaging in the formats and for the purposes listed in Annex V. _________________ 1a Regulation (EC) No 178/2002 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 28 January 2002 laying down the general principles and requirements of food law, establishing the European Food Safety Authority and laying down procedures in matters of food safety (OJ L 31, 1.2.2002).
Amendment 392 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 22 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Article 22 – paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Without prejudice to Article 8 of this Regulation, economic operator shall not place on the market packaging in the formats and for the purposes listed in point 2 of Annex V as of 18 months after the adoption of the delegated act laid down in paragraph 2b.
Amendment 393 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 22 – paragraph 2 b (new)
Article 22 – paragraph 2 b (new)
2b. The Commission shall adopt delegated acts in accordance with Article 58 in order to supplement the provisions laid down in point 2 of Annex V. The Commission shall consider the list of fresh fruit and vegetables laid down in part IX of Annex I of Regulation No 1308/20131aand assess where the restriction on the market of the packaging in the format and for the purposes listed in point 2 of Annex V would create water loss or turgidity loss, microbiological hazards or physical shocks. In this regards the Commission should take into consideration the provisions laid down in Article 76 of Regulation No 1308/2013. _________________ 1a Regulation (EU) No 1308/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 December 2013 establishing a common organisation of the markets in agricultural products and repealing Council Regulations (EEC) No 922/72, (EEC) No 234/79, (EC) No 1037/2001 and (EC) No 1234/2007 (OJ L 347)
Amendment 405 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 22 – paragraph 4
Article 22 – paragraph 4
4. The Commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with Article 58 to amend Annex V in order to adapt it to technical and scientific progress with the objective to reducing packaging waste. When adopting those delegated acts,By [OP: Please insert the date = 8 years after the date of entry into force of this Regulation] the Commission shall consider the potential of the restrictions on the use of specific packaging formats to reduce the packaging waste generated while ensuring an overall positive environmental impact, and shall take into account the availability of alternative packaging solutions that meet requirements set out in legislation applicable to contact sensitive packaging, as well as their capability to prevent microbiological contamination of the packaged product. To that end, the Commission shall submit a report to the European Parliament and to the Council, accompanied, if the Commission finds it appropriate, by a legislative proposal.
Amendment 443 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 4 – introductory part
Article 26 – paragraph 4 – introductory part
4. The manufacturer and the final distributor making available on the market within the territory of a Member State in sales packaging alcoholic beverages in the form of beer, carbonated alcoholic beverages, fermented beverages other than wine, aromatised wine products and fruit wine, products based on spirit drinks, wine or other fermented beverages mixed with beverages, soda, cider or juice, shall ensure that:
Amendment 452 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 5
Article 26 – paragraph 5
Amendment 470 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 6 – introductory part
Article 26 – paragraph 6 – introductory part
6. The manufacturer and the final distributor making available on the market within the territory of a Member State in sales packaging non- alcoholic beverages in the form of water, water with added sugar, water with other sweetening matter, flavoured water, soft drinks, soda lemonade, iced tea and similar beverages which are immediately ready to drink, pure juice, juice or must of fruits or vegetables and smoothies without milk and non- alcoholic beverages containing milk fat, shall ensure that:
Amendment 514 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 12 a (new)
Article 26 – paragraph 12 a (new)
12a. The packaging design subject to geographical indications of origin protected under Union legislation shall not comply with paragraphs 4 and 6 of this Article.
Amendment 528 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 26 – paragraph 15 a (new)
Article 26 – paragraph 15 a (new)
15a. Member State will be exempted from the obligation under paragraph 2, 3, 4 and 6 under the following conditions: (a) the rate of separate collection as required under Article 43(3), (4) (4b) of the respective packaging format as reported to the Commission under Article 50(1) point (c) is above 90 % by weight of such packaging placed on the market on the territory of that Member State in the calendar years 2026 and 2027. Where such reporting has not yet been submitted to the Commission, the Member State shall provide a reasoned justification, based on validated national data, and description of the implemented measures, that the conditions for the exemption set out in this paragraph are fulfilled; (b) at the latest 24 months before the deadline laid down in paragraphs 2 and 3 of this Article, the Member State notifies the Commission of its request for exemption and submits an implementation plan showing a strategy with concrete actions, including timeline that ensure the achievement of the 90 % separate collection rate by weight of the packaging.
Amendment 565 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 43 – paragraph 4 a (new)
Article 43 – paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. A final distributor making available on the market food and beverages filled and consumed within the premises of the HORECA sector shall ensure that separate collection systems are set up for the different fractions of packaging waste materials by 2030.
Amendment 566 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 44 – paragraph 1 – introductory part
Article 44 – paragraph 1 – introductory part
1. By 1 January 2029, Member States shall take the necessary measures to ensure thatThe systems referred to in article 43, paragraph 1, may take the form of a deposit and return systems are set up for:
Amendment 567 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 44 – paragraph 1 – point a
Article 44 – paragraph 1 – point a
(a) single use plastic beverage bottles with the capacity of up to three litres; and
Amendment 568 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 44 – paragraph 1 – point a a (new)
Article 44 – paragraph 1 – point a a (new)
(aa) single use glass beverage bottles;
Amendment 569 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 44 – paragraph 1 – point a b (new)
Article 44 – paragraph 1 – point a b (new)
(ab) beverage cartons; and
Amendment 570 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 44 – paragraph 1 – point a c (new)
Article 44 – paragraph 1 – point a c (new)
(ac) reusable packaging.
Amendment 571 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 44 – paragraph 2 – introductory part
Article 44 – paragraph 2 – introductory part
2. The obligatprovisions laid down in paragraph 1 does not apply to packaging for:
Amendment 574 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 44 – paragraph 3
Article 44 – paragraph 3
Amendment 577 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 44 – paragraph 4
Article 44 – paragraph 4
Amendment 578 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 44 – paragraph 5
Article 44 – paragraph 5
Amendment 587 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 58 – paragraph 2
Article 58 – paragraph 2
2. The power to adopt delegated acts referred to in Article 5(5), Article 6(4), Article 6(6), Article 7(9), Article 7(10), Article 7(11), Article 7(11b), Article 8(5), Article 22(4 (2a), Article 26(16) and Article 57(3) shall be conferred on the Commission for a period of ten years from date of entry into force of this Regulation. The Commission shall draw up a report in respect of the delegation of power no later than nine months before the end of the five-year period. The delegation of power shall be tacitly extended for periods of an identical duration, unless the European Parliament or the Council opposes such extension no later than 3 months before the end of each period.
Amendment 588 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex I – paragraph 6
Annex I – paragraph 6
Flower pots intended to be used only for the selling and transporting of plants and not intended to stay with the plant throughout its life time
Amendment 598 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex III – paragraph 1 – introductory part
Annex III – paragraph 1 – introductory part
Conditions to be considered when mandating or introducing the use of compostable packaging format on the market:
Amendment 601 #
2022/0396(COD)
(ca) it is compliant with standard EN 13432 or any relevant new EU standard
Amendment 607 #
2022/0396(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex IV – Part I – point 6
Annex IV – Part I – point 6
6. Legal requirements: the packaging design shall ensure that the packaging and packaged product can comply with the applicable legislation including the protection of geographical indications and relevant intellectual property rights protected under Union legislation.
Amendment 65 #
2022/0394(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) The aim of this Regulation is to develop a voluntary Union certification framework for carbon removals and carbon farming, with the view to incentivise the uptake of high- quality carbon removals, in full respect of the biodiversity and the zero-pollution objectives. It is a tool to support the achievement of the Union objectives under the Paris Agreement, notably the goal of collective climate neutrality by 2050 laid down in Regulation (EU) 2021/1119 of the European Parliament and of the Council24 . The Union also committed to generate negative emissions after 2050. In accordance with Regulation 2021/119 priority should be given to reduction in direct emissions which will have to be complemented by carbon removals. An important instrument to enhance carbon removals in terrestrial ecosystems is Regulation (EU) 2018/841 of the European Parliament and of the Council25 , which is currently under review, as amended by Regulation (EU) 2023/83925 . The objective of the review is to set out a Union net removals target of 310 Mt CO2 eq by 2030, and to allocate respective targets to each Member State. __________________ 24 Regulation (EU) 2021/1119 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 June 2021 establishing the framework for achieving climate neutrality and amending Regulations (EC) No 401/2009 and (EU) 2018/1999 (‘European Climate Law’) (OJ L 243, 9.7.2021, p. 1). 25 Regulation (EU) 2018/841 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 May 2018 on the inclusion of greenhouse gas emissions and removals from land use, land use change and forestry in the 2030 climate and energy framework, and amending Regulation (EU) No 525/2013 and Decision No 529/2013/EU (OJ L 156, 19.6.2018, p. 1).
Amendment 85 #
2022/0394(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5 a (new)
Recital 5 a (new)
(5 a) The different types of carbon removal activities vary in terms of the removal process, the storage medium and the timescales of the storage, which can vary from decades to centuries for carbon farming or storage in certain products, to permanent storage in geological formations. For this reason, different rules should be set out for these kind of activities.
Amendment 88 #
2022/0394(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5 b (new)
Recital 5 b (new)
(5 b) The scope of carbon farming covered under the Union carbon removal certification framework should be consistent with the scope of Regulation (EU) 2018/841, as amended by Regulation (EU) 2023/839, and of the reporting under that Regulation in the national greenhouse gas inventories.
Amendment 90 #
2022/0394(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) This Regulation should set out the requirements under which carbon removals and carbon farming should be eligible for certification under the Union certification framework. To this end, carbon removals and carbon farming should be quantified in an accurate and robust way taking into account their level of uncertainty in order to limit the risk of overestimating the quantity of CO2 removed from the atmosphere; and they should be generated only by carbon removal activities that generate a net carbon removal benefit, are additional, aim to ensure long-term storage of carbon, and have a neutral impact or co-benefit on sustainability objectives. Furthermore, carbon removals should be subject to independent third-party auditing in order to ensure the credibility and reliability of the certification process. Mandatory Union carbon pricing rules established through Directive 2003/87/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council26 are in place which regulate the treatment of emissions from activities covered by that Directive. This Regulation should be without prejudice to Directive 2003/87/EC, except in relation to the certification of removals of emissions from sustainable biomass which are zero-rated in accordance with Annex IV thereto. __________________ 26 Directive 2003/87/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 October 2003 establishing a scheme for greenhouse gas emission allowance trading within the Community and amending Council Directive 96/61/EC (OJ L 275, 25.10.2003, p. 32).
Amendment 116 #
2022/0394(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) Carbon removals should be quantified in a relevant, accurate, complete, consistent and comparable manner. Uncertainties in the quantification should be duly reported and accounted in order to limit the risk of overestimating the quantity of carbon dioxide removed from the atmosphere and should be publicly available through an Union register in order to ensure transparency and traceability to carbon removal unit certificates. Carbon removals generated by carbon farming should be quantified with a high level of accuracy to assure the highest quality and minimise uncertainties. Moreover, in order to incentivise synergies between Union climate and biodiversity objectives, enhanced monitoring of land needs to be required, thereby helping to protect and enhance the resilience of nature-based carbon removals throughout the Union. The satellite and on-site monitoring and reporting of emissions and removals need to closely reflect those approaches, and make the best use of advanced technologies available under Union programmes, such as Copernicus, making full use of already existing tools, and ensure consistency with the national greenhouse gas inventories.
Amendment 135 #
2022/0394(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 15
Recital 15
(15) Carbon removal activities and carbon farming have a strong potential to deliver win-win solutions for sustainability, even if trade- offs cannot be excluded. Therefore, it is appropriate to establish minimum environmental, economic and social sustainability requirements to ensure that carbon removal activities have at least a neutral impact or generate co-benefits for the sustainability objectives of climate change mitigation and adaptation, the protection and restoration of biodiversity and ecosystems, the sustainable use and protection of water and marine resources, the transition to a circular economy, and pollution prevention and controlprotection of soil quality and prevention of erosion, the fair remuneration of operators, the protection of employment, the transition to a circular economy, and pollution prevention and control. Furthermore, carbon farming should not have a negative impact on food production and food supply in the Union or in the third countries. Those sustainability requirements should, as appropriate, and taking into consideration local conditions, build on the technical screening criteria for Do Not Significant Harm concerning forestry activities and underground permanent geological storage of CO2, laid down in Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2021/213928 , and on the sustainability criteria for forest and agriculture biomass raw material laid down in Article 29 of Directive (EU) 2018/2001 of the European Parliament and of the Council29 . Practices, such as forest monocultures, that produce harmful effects for biodiversity should not be eligible for certification. __________________ 28 Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2021/2139 of 4 June 2021 supplementing Regulation (EU) 2020/852 of the European Parliament and of the Council by establishing the technical screening criteria for determining the conditions under which an economic activity qualifies as contributing substantially to climate change mitigation or climate change adaptation and for determining whether that economic activity causes no significant harm to any of the other environmental objectives (OJ L 442, 9.12.2021, p. 1). 29 Directive (EU) 2018/2001 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2018 on the promotion of the use of energy from renewable sources (OJ L 328, 21.12.2018, p. 82).
Amendment 153 #
2022/0394(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16
Recital 16
(16) Farming practices that remove CO2 from the atmosphere contribute to the climate neutrality objective and should be rewarded, either via the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) or other public or private initiatives such as sustainable private finance, contractual arrangements along supply chain, voluntary carbon markets and product claims.. Specifically, this Regulation should take into account farming practices as referenced in the Communication on Sustainable Carbon Cycles30 . __________________ 30 Communication from the Commission, Sustainable Carbon Cycles, COM (20221) 800.
Amendment 164 #
2022/0394(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 17
Recital 17
(17) Operators or groups of operators may report co-benefits that contribute to the sustainability objectives beyond the minimum environmental, economic and social sustainability requirements. To this end, their reporting should comply with the certification methodologies tailored to the different carbon removal activities, developed by the Commission. Certification methodologies should, as much as possible, incentivise the generation of co-benefits for biodiversity going beyond the minimum sustainability requirements. These additional co-benefits will give more economic value to the certified carbon removals and will result in higher revenues for the operators. In the light of these considerations, it is appropriate for the Commission to prioritise the development of tailored certification methodologies on carbon farming activities that provide significant co-benefits for biodiversity.
Amendment 177 #
2022/0394(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 20 a (new)
Recital 20 a (new)
(20 a) Carbon removal activities should not primarily take the focus of emission reductions, and therefore carbon removal and carbon farming certificates or units should not be used to offset continued emissions either in compliance or voluntary mechanisms - including the ESR, ETS, CORSIA, Article 6.2 and Article 6.4 mechanisms under the Paris Agreement or voluntary carbon markets. Certificates and units should be incentivized in a manner that makes them complementary to emission reductions, rather than substitutes.
Amendment 194 #
2022/0394(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 26
Recital 26
(26) Certification schemes should establish and maintain interoperable public registries in order to ensure transparency and full traceability of carbon removal certificates, and to avoid the risk of fraud and double counting. Fraud may occur if more than one certificate is issued for the same carbon removal activity because the activity has been registered under two different certification schemes or has been registered twice under the same scheme. Fraud may also occur when the same certificate is used several times to make the same claim based on a carbon removal activity or a carbon removal unit. The registries should store the documents resulting from the certification process of carbon removals, including summaries of certification audits and re-certification audit reports, the certificates and updated certificates, and make them publicly available in electronic form. The registries should also record the certified carbon removal units that meet the Union quality criteria. The Commission should set up a centralised Union registry that contains in a fully publicly accessible manner all the information held in the registries referred to above. All information in this central registry shall be easy to navigate and search. In order to ensure a level playing field within the single market, the Commission should be empowered to adopt implementing rules setting out standards and technical rules on the functioning and the inter-operability of those registries.
Amendment 208 #
2022/0394(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – introductory part
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – introductory part
1. The objective of this Regulation is to facilitate the deployment of carbon removals and carbon farming by operators or groups of operators while ensuring the commitment with the greenhouse gas emissions reductions required pursuant to Article 4(1) of Regulation (EU) 2021/1119. To that end, this Regulation establishes a voluntary Union framework for the certification of carbon removals and carbon farming by laying down:
Amendment 213 #
2022/0394(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point a
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point a
(a) quality criteria for carbon removal and carbon farming activities that take place in the Union;
Amendment 219 #
2022/0394(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point b
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point b
(b) rules for the verification and certification of carbon removals and carbon farming;
Amendment 225 #
2022/0394(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 2 a (new)
2 a. For the purpose of Article 1(2), carbon removal units or carbon farming removal unit certified under this framework cannot be used for offsetting, compensating or replacing emissions reductions throughout compliance or voluntary mechanisms, including the ESR, ETS, CORSIA, Article 6.2 and Article 6.4 mechanisms under the Paris Agreement or voluntary carbon markets
Amendment 248 #
2022/0394(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point e
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point e
(e) ‘group of operators’ means a legal entity that represents more than one operator and is responsible for ensuring that those operators comply with this Regulation. For carbon farming, operators means a legal entity that represents more than one operators. The latter being landlords and tenants producing agricultural and forestry products;
Amendment 270 #
2022/0394(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point h
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point h
(h) ‘carbon farming’ means a carbon removal activity related to land managementor costal management, agriculture or forestry that results in the increase of carbon storage in living biomass, dead organic matter and soils matter by enhancing carbon capture and/or reducing the release of carbon to the atmosphere;
Amendment 276 #
2022/0394(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point i
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point i
(i) ‘carbon storage in products’ means a carbon removal or carbon farming activity that stores atmospheric and biogenic carbon in long- lasting products or materials;
Amendment 282 #
2022/0394(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point o a (new)
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point o a (new)
(o a) ‘carbon farming removal unit’ means one tonne of certified net carbon removal benefit generated by a carbon farming removal activity and registered by a certification scheme.
Amendment 287 #
2022/0394(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – introductory part
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – introductory part
Carbon removals and carbon farming shall be eligible for certification under this Regulation where they meet bothall of the following conditions:
Amendment 293 #
2022/0394(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point b a (new)
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point b a (new)
(b a) the minimum information on the carbon removal or carbon farming to be included in the Union registry referred to in Article 12 has been provided by the certification scheme to the Commission in accordance with Annex 2a.
Amendment 312 #
2022/0394(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 2
Article 4 – paragraph 2
2. In the case of carbon farming,A carbon farming activity shall provide a net carbon removal benefit, which shall be quantified using the following formula: Net carbon removal benefit = CRbaseline – CRtotal – GHGincrease > 0 where: (a) CRbaseline is the carbon removals under the baseline; (b) CRtotal is the total carbon removals of the carbon farming activity; (c) GHGincrease is the increase in direct and indirect greenhouse gas emissions, other than those from biogenic carbon pools, which are due to the implementation of the carbon farming activity. CRbaseline and CRtotal shall be understood as net greenhouse gas removals or emissions in accordance with the accounting rules laid down in Regulation (EU) 2018/841.
Amendment 351 #
2022/0394(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 1 – introductory part
Article 5 – paragraph 1 – introductory part
1. A carbon removal activity and a carbon farming activity shall be additional. To that end, the carbon removal activity and the carbon farming activity shall meet both of the following criteria:
Amendment 381 #
2022/0394(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 3
Article 6 – paragraph 3
3. For carbon farming and carbon storage in products, the carbon stored by a carbon removal activity shall be considered released to the atmosphere at the end of the monitoring period. For carbon farming, the activity does not cease to take place if the operator or the group of operators renew the monitoring period while proving he maintenance of the carbon storage activity through uninterrupted monitoring activities.
Amendment 415 #
2022/0394(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Article 7 – paragraph 1 a (new)
1 a. A carbon farming activity shall have at least a neutral impact on all the following sustainability objectives and may generate positive co-benefits for one or more of the following sustainability objectives: (a)climate change mitigation beyond the net carbon removal benefit referred to in Article 4(2); (b)climate change adaptation; (c)sustainable use and protection of water and marine resources; (d)transition to a circular economy; (e)pollution prevention and control; (f)protection and restoration of biodiversity and ecosystems; (g) the quality and fertility of soils and the prevention of erosion; (h) the quality of water; (i) food security.
Amendment 430 #
2022/0394(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 3 a (new)
Article 7 – paragraph 3 a (new)
3 a. Certificates shall indicate whether a carbon removal or a carbon farming activity have a neutral impact or generate positive benefits for each of the sustainability objectives.
Amendment 438 #
2022/0394(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 2
Article 8 – paragraph 2
2. The Commission is empowered to, after consultation with the Expert Group on Carbon Removals, shall adopt delegated acts in accordance with Article 16 to establish the technical certification methodologies referred to in paragraph 1 for activities related to permanent carbon storage, carbon farming and carbon storage in products. Those certification methodologies shall include at least the elements set out in Annex I and shall be open for robust public consultation.
Amendment 447 #
2022/0394(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Article 8 – paragraph 2 a (new)
2 a. For carbon farming, the methodology shall take in to account the different site-specific characteristics, in particular related to soil diversity and temperature.
Amendment 492 #
Amendment 495 #
2022/0394(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 12 – paragraph 1
Article 12 – paragraph 1
1. A certification schemeThe Commission shall establish and duly maintain a public registry (´Union registry ´) to make publicly accessible the information related to the certification process, containing at least the information set out in Annex 2a, including the certificates and updated certificates, and the quantity of carbon removal units certified in accordance with Article 9. Thosee Union registriesy shall use automated systems, including electronic templates, and shall be interoperable.
Amendment 496 #
2022/0394(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 12 – paragraph 2
Article 12 – paragraph 2
2. The Commission may adopt implementing acts setting out the structure, format, and technical details of the public registries, andUnion registry, the information to be provided to be Union registry and the procedure for providing such information and the technical details of the recording, holding or use of carbon removal units, as referred to in paragraph 1. Those implementing acts shall be adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in Article 17.
Amendment 516 #
2022/0394(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 18 – paragraph 2 a (new)
Article 18 – paragraph 2 a (new)
2 a. By 31 July 2026, the Commission should assess how biogenic emissions reduction resulting from carbon farming activity may be accounted towards the Union 2040 climate target and, if appropriate, present a legislative proposal to amend Article 1a paragraph 2 of this Regulation.
Amendment 520 #
2022/0394(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex II – paragraph 1 – point i
Annex II – paragraph 1 – point i
(i) net carbon removal benefit referred to in Article 4(1) or 4(2);
Amendment 521 #
2022/0394(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex II – paragraph 1 – point j
Annex II – paragraph 1 – point j
(j) carbon removals under the baseline referred to in Article 4(1), point (a) or Article 4(2), point (a);
Amendment 522 #
2022/0394(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex II – paragraph 1 – point k
Annex II – paragraph 1 – point k
(k) total carbon removals referred to in Article 4(1), point (b) or in Article 4(2), point (b);
Amendment 523 #
2022/0394(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex II – paragraph 1 – point l
Annex II – paragraph 1 – point l
(l) increase in direct and indirect greenhouse gas emissions referred to in Article 4(1), point (c) or in Article 4(2), point (c);
Amendment 524 #
2022/0394(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex II – paragraph 1 – point o
Annex II – paragraph 1 – point o
(o) anywhether the carbon removal or carbon farming activity generate co- benefits for any of the sustainability co-benefitobjectives referred to in Article 7(31) and 7(1a);
Amendment 525 #
2022/0394(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex II a (new)
Annex II a (new)
Amendment 25 #
2022/0344(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 1 a (new)
Recital 1 a (new)
(1a) Many territories in the Union are subject to large and increasing water constraints. In this sense, the current large and persistent droughts of these years, especially in the Mediterranean regions, are putting agricultural production at risk and causing a serious decline in surface and groundwater reserves1a. __________________ 1a https://www.oecd.org/agriculture/topics/w ater-and-agriculture/
Amendment 32 #
2022/0344(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 1 b (new)
Recital 1 b (new)
(1b) In order to facilitate a transition to a more sustainable and productive agricultural sector that is resistant to water constraints, incentives for farmers should be put in place to improve water management and modernisation of irrigation systems and techniques.
Amendment 42 #
2022/0344(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 3 a (new)
Recital 3 a (new)
(3a) The new Common Agricultural Policy 2023-2027 makes it mandatory to respect environmental and climate objectives, as well as eco-schemes, including, for example, improving the Union’s water management.
Amendment 50 #
2022/0344(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 9 a (new)
Recital 9 a (new)
Amendment 51 #
2022/0344(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 9 b (new)
Recital 9 b (new)
(9b) Member States are obliged to identify affected and at-risk waters, designate nitrate-vulnerable zones, develop action programmes and implement relevant measures. In this regard, there is still a need for an improvement in the harmonisation of control measures and water quality measurement systems between Member States so as to allow for homogenised standards across the Union that make comparability between Member States possible, thus avoiding competition problems in the European agricultural sector, resulting in disturbances to the internal market.
Amendment 54 #
2022/0344(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 10 a (new)
Recital 10 a (new)
(10a) Substances such as microplastics, pose a clear risk to public health and the environment, but also to basic activities such as the development of agriculture. The presence of these and other particles can have implications not only on the water received by livestock and crops, but also on soil fertility, thereby compromising the health and good development of present and future crops10a. __________________ 10a https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/arti cle/pii/S2352186422000724
Amendment 67 #
2022/0344(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 21 a (new)
Recital 21 a (new)
(21a) In order to ensure consistency and clarity of the rules within the Union, it is necessary that this revision is in line and consistent with other rules linked to the same topic and which are currently under review or negotiation within the co- legislators.
Amendment 68 #
2022/0344(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 27 a (new)
Recital 27 a (new)
(27a) Water as an essential resource for agriculture can be ensured through the application of novel technologies, the modernisation of irrigation systems, as well as by recognising the importance of investing in research to boost and promote techniques such as precision agriculture to ensure land and water management that can meet challenges27a. __________________ 27a https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/arti cle/pii/S037837741500089X
Amendment 69 #
2022/0344(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 32
Recital 32
(32) Considering the increases in unforeseeable weather events, in particular extreme floods and prolonged droughts, and in significant pollution incidents resulting in or exacerbating transboundary accidental pollution, Member States should be required to ensure that immediate information on such incidents is provided to other potentially affected Member States and effectively cooperate with potentially affected Member States to mitigate the effects of the event or incident. In this regard, it is essential to take into account in this revision that there are European regions that are particularly exposed to this type of extreme weather phenomena, as well as to water pollution, due to their particular geographical and climatological characteristics. It is also necessary to reinforce cooperation between Member States and streamline procedures for transboundary cooperation in case of more structural, i.e. non accidental and longer term transboundary issues which cannot be solved at Member State level, in accordance with Article 12 of Directive 2000/60/EC. In case European assistance is necessary, competent national authorities may send requests for assistance to the Emergency Response Coordination Centre of the Commission, which will coordinate possible offers of assistance and their deployment through the Union Civil Protection Mechanism, in accordance with Article 15 of Decision 1313/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council64 . __________________ 64 Decision No 1313/2013/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 December 2013 on a Union Civil Protection Mechanism (OJ L 347, 20.12.2013, p. 924).
Amendment 85 #
2022/0344(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 9
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 9
Directive 2000/60/EC
Article 12 – paragraph 1
Article 12 – paragraph 1
1. Where a Member State identifies an issue which has an impact on the management of its water but cannot be resolved by that Member State or could likely affect another Member State, it shall notify the issue to the Commission and any other Member State concerned and make recommendations for the resolution of it.
Amendment 105 #
2022/0344(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 6
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 6
Directive 2006/118/EC
Article 6 a (new) – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 3
Article 6 a (new) – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 3
In selecting the representative monitoring stations, the monitoring frequency and the seasonal timing for each substance or group of substances, Member States shall take into account the use patterns and possible occurrence of the substance or group of substances. The frequency of monitoring shall be no less than once per year. and it will be based on the most updated data available.
Amendment 42 #
2022/0219(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) The EU Heads of State or Government, meeting in Versailles on 11 March, committed to “bolster European defence capabilities” in light of the Russian military aggression against Ukraine. They agreed to increase defence expenditures, step up cooperation through joint projects, and common procurement of defence capabilities, close shortfalls, boost innovation and strengthen and develop the EU defence industry, which is a key player that should positively contribute to the security of Member States by providing effective new capabilities in a timely manner.
Amendment 48 #
2022/0219(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) The unjustified invasion of Ukraine by the Russian Federation on 24 February 2022 and the ongoing armed conflict in Ukraine has made it clear that it is critical to act now to address the existing shortfalls It has led to the return of high-intensity warfare and territorial conflict in Europe, requiring to the detriment of All European citizens and Member States. As a result the situation requires a significant increase in the capacity of Member States to fill the most urgent and critical gaps, especially those exacerbated by the transfer of defence products to Ukraine.
Amendment 58 #
2022/0219(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) The Commission and the High Representative presented a Joint Communication on “The Defence Investment Gaps Analysis and Way Forward” on 18 May 2022. The Communication highlighted the existence, within the EU, of defence financial, industrial and capability gaps, caused by years of defence underspending, reduced industrial production capacity and limited joint procurement and collaboration.
Amendment 64 #
2022/0219(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) Such a new instrument will contribute to reinforce common defence procurement in alignment with Member States' goal of 35% collaborative procurement for defence equipment and, through the associated Union financing, to strengthen EU defence industrial capabilities.
Amendment 75 #
2022/0219(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) Reinforcing the European Defence Technological and Industrial Base should therefore be at the core of those efforts. Indeed difficulties and gaps still exist and the European defence industrial base remains highly fragmented, inefficient, lacking sufficient collaborative action and inter- operability of products.
Amendment 86 #
2022/0219(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) In the light of the above challenges and the related structural changes in the EU Defence industry, it appears necessary to speed up the adjustment of the European Defence Technological and Industrial Base, enhance its competitiveness and efficiency, encourage close cooperation and coordination and thereby contribute to strengthening and reforming Member States’ defence industrial capabilities. Addressing industrial shortfalls should include promptly tackling the most urgent gaps.
Amendment 97 #
2022/0219(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 13
Recital 13
(13) The Short Term Instrument should offset the complexity and risks associated with such joint actions while allowing economies of scale in the actions undertaken by Member States to reinforce and modernise the European Technological and Industrial Base, increasing thereby the Union’s capacity resilience and security of supply. Incentivizing common procurement would also result into diminished costs in terms of exploitation, maintenance and withdrawal of the systems. Efforts to utilise economies of scale must be accompanied by measures aimed at ensuring a level-playing field for suppliers form all Member States.
Amendment 113 #
2022/0219(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 15
Recital 15
(15) The Instrument ishould be consistent coherent with existing collaborative EU defence-related initiatives such as in the European Defence Fund as well as the Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO), and generates synergies with other EU programmes. The Instrument is fully coherent with the ambition of the Strategic Compass.
Amendment 142 #
2022/0219(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 20
Recital 20
(20) Where the Union grant takes the form of financing not linked to costs, the Commission should determine in the multiannual work programme the funding conditions for each action, in particular (a) a description of action involving cooperation for common procurement with a view to addressing the most urgent and critical capacity needs, (b) the milestones for the implementation of the action, (c) the rough order of magnitude expected from the common procurement and (d) the maximum Union contribution available. Additionally, it must determine the evaluation and selection procedure concerning the proposals, including the monitoring and disbursement process for the actions following their selection.
Amendment 161 #
2022/0219(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point 1
(1) ‘common procurement’ means a cooperative procurement jointly conducted by at least threfive Member States;
Amendment 184 #
2022/0219(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point a
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point a
(a) to foster the competitiveness and efficiency of the European Defence Technological and Industrial Base (EDTIB), including SMEs, start-ups and mid-caps, for a more resilient and secure Union, in particular by speeding up, in a collaborative manner, the adjustment of industry to structural changes, including ramp-up of its manufacturing capacities;
Amendment 189 #
2022/0219(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point b
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point b
(b) to foster cooperation in defence procurement process between participating Member States contributing to solidarity, closer collaboration, interoperability, prevention of crowding- out effects, avoidreducing fragmentation and, increasing the effectiveness of public spending, and expanding cross-border supply chains within the European Union.
Amendment 202 #
2022/0219(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 2
Article 3 – paragraph 2
2. The objectives shall be pursued with an emphasis on strengthening and developing the Union defence industrial base to allow it to address in particular the most urgent and critical defence products and combat medical equipment needs, especially those revealed or exacerbated by the response to the Russian aggression against Ukraine, taking into account the work of the Defence Joint Procurement Task Force and in line with the Joint Communication on the Defence Investment Gaps Analysis and Way forward.
Amendment 208 #
2022/0219(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1
Article 4 – paragraph 1
1. The financial envelope for the implementation of the Instrument for the period from the entry into force of this Regulation to 31 December 2024 shall be EUR 500 m1.5 billion in current prices.
Amendment 228 #
2022/0219(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 3
Article 6 – paragraph 3
3. Where necessary for the implementation of an action, financial contributions may cover a period prior to the date of the request for financial contributions for that action, provided that the action has not started prior to the 24 February 2022 or completed before applying for the financial contribution.
Amendment 229 #
2022/0219(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 3 – point 1 (new)
Article 6 – paragraph 3 – point 1 (new)
(1) The financial contribution to each approved action must not exceed 20% of the amount referred to in Article 4(1).
Amendment 301 #
2022/0219(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 11 – paragraph 1
Article 11 – paragraph 1
1. The Instrument shall be implemented through a multiannual work programme as referred to in Article 110 of the Financial Regulation.
Amendment 314 #
2022/0219(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 12 – paragraph 1
Article 12 – paragraph 1
1. The Commission shall draw up an mid-term/interim evaluation report for the Instrument not later than 31 December 2024 and3, followed by a full evaluation report not later than 31 December 2024, to be submit itted to the European Parliament and to the Council. The report shall evaluate the impact and effectiveness of the actions taken under the Instrument. Furthermore, it will present the findings of the monitoring and disbursement process set out in the work programme.
Amendment 315 #
2022/0219(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 12 – paragraph 1 – point 1 (new)
Article 12 – paragraph 1 – point 1 (new)
(1) Furthermore, the report should in cooperation with the European Defence Agency, incorporate findings and recommendations pertaining to the use of raw materials, components and production capacities from third countries within the various actions for which there was no European substitute.
Amendment 319 #
2022/0219(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 12 – paragraph 2
Article 12 – paragraph 2
2. The report shall build on consultations of Member States and key stakeholders and shall, in particular, assess the progress made towards the achievement of the objectives set out in Article 3. and evaluate the Instrument's success:
Amendment 320 #
2022/0219(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 12 – paragraph 2 – point a (new)
Article 12 – paragraph 2 – point a (new)
(a) creating new cross-border cooperation between Member States;
Amendment 321 #
2022/0219(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 12 – paragraph 2 – point b (new)
Article 12 – paragraph 2 – point b (new)
(b) developing new industrial synergies within the European Defence Industry;
Amendment 322 #
2022/0219(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 12 – paragraph 2 – point c (new)
Article 12 – paragraph 2 – point c (new)
(c) Offering a level-playing field for existing companies and SMEs in the EDTIB;
Amendment 323 #
2022/0219(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 12 – paragraph 2 – point d (new)
Article 12 – paragraph 2 – point d (new)
(d) incorporating a broad share of companies from across the EU;
Amendment 6 #
2022/0212(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. is committed to ensuring generational renewal in the agricultural sector by facilitating the takeover of farms by young people and by women as they play a fundamental role by maintaining the economic resilience of rural areas;
Amendment 28 #
2022/0212(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. insists that an increase in the budget is necessary in view of the major challenges the agri-food sector is facing in 2022 and will continue to face in 2023; recalls the need of sufficient margins under the ceilings to address unforeseen circumstances as uncertainty in the economic outlook persists;
Amendment 32 #
2022/0212(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6 a. Reiterates the need to support and enable EU farmers and agricultural and food producers to be prepared to future challenges, while safeguarding their income and competitiveness in order to empower them to ensure food security;
Amendment 34 #
2022/0212(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 b (new)
Paragraph 6 b (new)
6 b. Recalls that the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russian invasion of Ukraine have emphasised the strategic role that agriculture plays in ensuring food security; highlights the need of sufficient budgetary support to continue guaranteeing the availability of safe, high-quality food at affordable prices;
Amendment 36 #
2022/0212(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 c (new)
Paragraph 6 c (new)
6 c. Reiterates that these continuing crises are having strong consequences, including a surge on prices of energy and agricultural inputs like fertilizers putting at risk the income of our farmers;
Amendment 37 #
2022/0212(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 d (new)
Paragraph 6 d (new)
6 d. Points out that a number of agricultural sectors have been hit hard by the COVID-19outbreak and other crises; calls for the continuation and increase of targeted reinforcements of the relevant budget lines for market support measures, in particular, taking into consideration the negative impact of African swine fever and the avian flu on EU farmers and consequently on the food supply chain;
Amendment 83 #
2022/0104(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 3 – point a
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 3 – point a
Directive 2010/75/EU
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 3
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 3
(3) ‘installation’ means a stationary technical unit within which one or more activities listed in Annex I, in Annex Iab or in Part 1 of Annex VII are carried out, and any other directly associated activities on the same site which have a technical connection with the activities listed in those Annexes and which could have an effect on emissions and pollution;;
Amendment 90 #
2022/0104(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 3 – point d a (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 3 – point d a (new)
Directive 2010/75/EU
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 23
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 23
(da) Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 23 is replaced by the following: "‘poultry’ means poultry as defined in point 19 of Article 24 of Council Directive 90/539/EEC of 15 October 1990 on animal health conditions governing intra- Community trade in, and imports from third countries of, poultry and hatching eggs(25); Regulation (EU) 2016/429 of the European Parliament and of the Council on transmissible animal diseases81a;" _________________ 81a OJ L84, 31.3.2016, p.1-208 Or. en (Directive 2010/75/EC)
Amendment 93 #
2022/0104(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 3 – point e
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 3 – point e
Directive 2010/75/EU
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 23b
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 23b
Amendment 100 #
2022/0104(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 3 – point e
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 3 – point e
Directive 2010/75/EU
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 23c
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point 23c
‘livestock unit’ or ‘LSU’ means the grazing equivalent of one adult dairy cow producing 3 000 kg of milk annually, without additional concentrated foodstuffs, which is used to express the size of farms rearing different categories of animals, using the conversion rates, with reference to actual production within the calendar year, set out in Annex II to Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 808/2014**’.a standard unit of measurement that allows for the aggregation of the categories of livestock unit relevant for the purposes of this Directive, in order for those categories to be compared; notwithstanding Annex Ia, those livestock categories cover pigs and poultry whose unit coefficients are listed in Annex Ib;
Amendment 106 #
2022/0104(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 4
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 4
Directive 2010/75/EU
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – second subparagraph
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – second subparagraph
‘By way of derogation from the first subparagraph, Member States may set a procedure for the registration of installations covered only by Chapter V or Chapter VIa.’.
Amendment 116 #
2022/0104(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 24
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 24
Directive 2010/75/EU
Chapter VIa – title
Chapter VIa – title
SPECIAL PROVISIONS FOR INTENSIVE REARING OF POULTRY, AND PIGS AND CATTLE
Amendment 123 #
2022/0104(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 25
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 25
Directive 2010/75/EU
Article 70a
Article 70a
This Chapter shall apply to the activities set out in Annex Ia which reach trearing of pigs or poultry in installations of 750 livestock units (LSU) or more. The capacity thresholds proximate equivalent in LSU shall be basetd out in that Annex. n the coefficients that are established in Annex Ib to this Directive.
Amendment 130 #
2022/0104(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 25
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 25
Directive 2010/75/EU
Article 70b – first paragraph
Article 70b – first paragraph
If two or more installations are located close to each other and if their: (a) they are operator ised by the same or if the instalperator, or (b) on a lastions are under the control of operators who are engaged in an economic or legal relationship, the installations concerned shall be considered as a single unit for the purpose of calculating the capacity threshold referred to in Article 70a. ng basis all their management and operational functions are preformed as if they were a single economic entity and they are operated by entities participating in a same group, as defined in Article 2, point (11), of Directive 2013/34/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council, they shall be considered as a single unit for the purpose of calculating the capacity threshold referred to in Article 70a. The simple fact of being members of a same cooperative shall not entail that the requirement set out in point (b) of the first subparagraph is met.
Amendment 135 #
2022/0104(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 25
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 25
Directive 2010/75/EU
Article 70c – Title
Article 70c – Title
Permits and simplified registration procedure
Amendment 140 #
2022/0104(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 25
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 25
Directive 2010/75/EU
Article 70c – paragraph 1a (new)
Article 70c – paragraph 1a (new)
By way of derogation from the first paragraph to this Article, Member States may set a specific procedure for the registration of the installations only covered by this Chapter. The procedure for the registration shall be specified in a binding act and include at least a notification to the competent authority by the operators of the intention to operate its activity. Member States may use any similar pre- existing procedure for the registration. They shall avoid administrative burden and additional costs for the operators. Member States shall issue the permits within six months from the date of the operator's application.
Amendment 153 #
2022/0104(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 25
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 25
Directive 2010/75/EU
Article 70c – paragraph 2 – point e
Article 70c – paragraph 2 – point e
(e) the nature and quantities of foreseeable emissions from the installation into each medium under normal operating conditions.
Amendment 158 #
2022/0104(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 25
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 25
Directive 2010/75/EU
Article 70c – paragraph 3
Article 70c – paragraph 3
3. Applications shall also include a non-technicalIn duly justified cases, applications may include a summary of the information referred to in paragraph 2.
Amendment 159 #
2022/0104(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 25
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 25
Directive 2010/75/EU
Article 70c – paragraph 4
Article 70c – paragraph 4
4. Member States shall take necessary measures to ensure that the operator informs the competent authority, without delay, of any planned substantial change to the installations falling within the scope of this Chapter which may have consequences for the environment. Where appropriate and within two months from the notification of the operator, the competent authority shall reconsider and update the permit.
Amendment 168 #
2022/0104(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 25
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 25
Directive 2010/75/EU
Article 70d – first paragraph – second subparagraph
Article 70d – first paragraph – second subparagraph
The operator shall keep a record of, and process, all monitoring results, for a period of at least 62 years, in such a way as to enable the verification of compliance with the emission limit values and environmental performance limit values set out in operating rules referred to in Article 70i.
Amendment 170 #
2022/0104(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 25
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 25
Directive 2010/75/EU
Article 70d – paragraph 2
Article 70d – paragraph 2
2. In the event of non-compliance with the emission limit values and environmental performance limit values set out in the operating rules referred to in Article 70i, Member States shall require that the operator takes the measures necessary to ensure that compliance is restored within the shortest possiblein a reasonable period of time.
Amendment 172 #
2022/0104(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 25
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 25
Directive 2010/75/EU
Article 70d – paragraph 3
Article 70d – paragraph 3
3. The operator shall ensure that any land spreading of waste, animal by- products or other residues generated by the installation is undertaken in accordance with the best available techniques, as specified in the operating rules referred to in Article 70i, and other relevant Union legislation and that it does not cause significant pollution of the environment, in accordance with relevant Union legislation.
Amendment 173 #
2022/0104(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 25
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 25
Directive 2010/75/EU
Article 70e – paragraph 3
Article 70e – paragraph 3
3. The operator shall, without delay, make available the data and information listed in paragraph 2 of this Article to the competent authority upon duly justified request. The competent authority may make such a request in order to verify compliance with the operating rules referred to in Article 70i. The competent authority shall make such a request if a member of the public requests access to the data or information listed in paragraph 2 of this Article. Nonetheless, without prejudice to Article 4(2) second subparagraph of Directive 2003/4/EC, at the request of the operator, those parts of such reports that involve sensitive commercial or industrial information, or which include personal data within the meaning of Article 4(1) of Regulation (EU) 2016/679 that are not strictly necessary for the purpose of this Article, shall not be published.
Amendment 189 #
2022/0104(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 25
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 25
Directive 2010/75/EU
Article 70g – paragraph 2 – point d
Article 70g – paragraph 2 – point d
(d) the reports of inspections of the installations falling within the scope of this Chapter. Nonetheless, without prejudice to Article 4(2) second subparagraph of Directive 2003/4/EC, at the request of the operator, those parts of such reports that involve sensitive commercial or industrial information, or which include personal data within the meaning of Article 4(1) of Regulation (EU) 2016/679 that are not strictly necessary for the purpose of this Article, shall not be published.
Amendment 194 #
2022/0104(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 25
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 25
Directive 2010/75/EU
Article 70h – paragraph 1 – point a
Article 70h – paragraph 1 – point a
(a) they have a sufficientlegitimate interest;
Amendment 204 #
2022/0104(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 25
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 25
Directive 2010/75/EU
Article 70i – paragraph 1 – introductory part
Article 70i – paragraph 1 – introductory part
The Commission shall establish operating rules containing requirements consistent with the use of best available techniques for the activities listed in Annex Iab, which shall include the following:
Amendment 213 #
2022/0104(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 25
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 25
Directive 2010/75/EU
Article 70i – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
Article 70i – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
The operating rules shall take into account inter alia the nature, type, size and density of these installations and the specificities of pasture based cattle rearing systems, where animals are only seasonally reared in indoor installations.
Amendment 227 #
2022/0104(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 27
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 27
Directive 2010/75/EU
Article 74 – paragraph 2
Article 74 – paragraph 2
2. In order to allow the provisions of this Directive to meet its objectives to prevent or reduce pollutants emissions and achieve a high level of protection of human health and the environment, the Commission shall be empowered to adopt a delegated act, in accordance with Article 76, to amend Annex I or Annex Ia by including in those Annexes an agro- industrial activity that meets the following criteria:
Amendment 231 #
2022/0104(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 27
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 27
Directive 2010/75/EU
Article 74 – paragraph 2 – point (a)
Article 74 – paragraph 2 – point (a)
Amendment 233 #
2022/0104(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 27
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 27
Directive 2010/75/EU
Article 74 – paragraph 2 – point (b)
Article 74 – paragraph 2 – point (b)
Amendment 235 #
2022/0104(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 27
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 27
Directive 2010/75/EU
Article 74 – paragraph 2 – point (c)
Article 74 – paragraph 2 – point (c)
Amendment 237 #
2022/0104(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 27
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 27
Directive 2010/75/EU
Article 74 – paragraph 2 – point (d)
Article 74 – paragraph 2 – point (d)
Amendment 268 #
2022/0104(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Annex II
Annex II
Directive 2010/75/EU
Annex Ib (new)
Annex Ib (new)
Type of animal Coefficient - Poultry - 0,018 - Production pigs (over 30 kg) - 0,375 - Sows - 1
Amendment 17 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 22 a (new)
Citation 22 a (new)
— having regard to the 2019 Poznan Declaration on Roma Integration within the EU Enlargement Process;
Amendment 27 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas BiH citizens aspire towards Euro-Atlantic integration for sustainable peace, democracy and prosperity; whereas the European Parliament has continuously supported BiH path into the EU;
Amendment 33 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas BiH’s progress on its EU accession path depends on the implementation of the 14 key priorities in the Commission’s opinion on BiH’s EU membership application, and; whereas EU assistance should address the persistent lack of progress in that regard with BiH counterparts;
Amendment 43 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas the Office of the High Representative (OHR) and EUFOR Althea are integral in preserving peace, security and stability, in BiH and the Western Balkans region;
Amendment 48 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas all BiH citizens should enjoy equal rights and obligations throughout BiH territory regardless of their ethnic background; whereas the country has committed to international obligations to end systematic ethnicity and residence-based discrimination and ensure citizens’ equality before the law and has so far failed to do so;
Amendment 58 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F a (new)
Recital F a (new)
Amendment 60 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F b (new)
Recital F b (new)
Amendment 70 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Urges BiH todecision-makers to show commitment to the European project by advanceing on the 14 key priorities, notably by restoring the independence of the judiciary, strengthening the rule of law, intensifying the fight against corruption and organised crime, securing media freedom and an enabling environment for civil society, and protecting vulnerable groups;
Amendment 72 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Reiterates its clear support for BiH’s democratic transformconsolidation through European integration, based on unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity, grounded in the principles of equality and non- discrimination of all citizens and constituent peoples as enshrined in the constitutionpeople living in BiH following the ECHR decisions in the Seidic-Fince group of cases;
Amendment 85 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4 a. Calls on all UNSC Members to ensure the renewal and continuity of the mandate of the OHR, as a crucial anchor of BiH stability;
Amendment 97 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Regrets the impasse in negotiations on electoral law reform in BiH and the lack of political will to overcome it; calls on all actors to promptly reach a balancnegotiate in good will and promptly reach a democratic human rights based agreement, to fulfil the constitutional duty of democratic governance and to ensure the transparency and integrity of the electoral process;
Amendment 107 #
2021/2245(INI)
6. Strongly denounces the disregard for international and national norms and obligations, all hate rhetoric and disruptive action, including withdrawal from institutions, particularly by the leadership of the Republika Srpska entity, which destabilises the country, undermines its statehood in violation of the Dayton Peace Agreement and systematically hampers decisions on key laws and reforms; reject which are essential to advance towards EU integration; condemns all attempts to form parallel parastatal institutions, which undermine state institutions, constitutional and legal order, judicial independence and sovereignty; calls for a full, non-selective and unconditional return to all state institutions;
Amendment 113 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6 a. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to refrain from supporting the secessionist efforts of the Bosnian Serb leadership;
Amendment 119 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Calls for the EU and the international community to use all available tools, including targeted sanctions, against destabilising actors in the country, notably Milorad Dodik in the country; welcomes the set of sanctions already adopted in this respect; calls on all EU Member States to ensure similar targeted sanctions can be adopted by the Council;
Amendment 126 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7 a. Calls on the Commission to conduct a thorough and comprehensive internal investigation to determine if the actions of the European Commissioner for Neighbourhood and Enlargement regarding the vote of the RS National Assembly on the roadmap of the withdrawal from the state institutions of BiH were compatible with his role as a Commissioner;
Amendment 134 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Underlines that the EU future of BiH depends on sustainable peace and genuine dealing with the past and reconciliation, warranting its democratic, inclusive and multi-ethnic character; urges BiH to expedite effective and impartial prosecution of war crimes under the revised national war crimes processing strategy; calls on all regional political leaders to set up the relevant commission (RECOM);
Amendment 140 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Encourages authorities to intensify cooperation and data sharing on missing persons and to ensure redress for the families of civilian victims, and the safe and sustainable return of refugees and internally displaced people, the full respect of their rights and the return of their property, as well as reconstruction assistance, job creation and social measures and education rights on the regional and national level;
Amendment 144 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Welcomes the amendments to the BiH Criminal Code outlawing the glorification of war criminals and the denial of genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes; deplores any attempt not to implement this decision; strongly condemns all forms of historical revisionism, denial, or minimisation or glorification of war crimes including non- compliance with decisions of international and domestic tribunals; calls for implementation of the amendments and effective investigations and prosecution of genocide denial;
Amendment 152 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Urges BiH’s political actors to make progress on reforms that are needed to bring the country closer to the EU; calls for an inclusion of civil society organisations in the process, during the transition and beyond; denounces all attempts to stall these reforms, thus endangering access to EU funding under IPA III, which must be based on strictboth incentives and strict rule of law conditionality and depends on the cooperation of different authorities;
Amendment 167 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. SRecalls on respecting the democratic principle of holding regular elections, in accordance with the Electoral Law; stresses the importance of holding elections this year as planned;
Amendment 200 #
Amendment 207 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Recalls the need for laws on gas and electricity, renewables, energy efficiency and climate, and to step up environmental and nature protection and ambition towards a green transition; calls on the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans to fully support BiH in this respect;
Amendment 213 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)
Paragraph 16 a (new)
16 a. Urges BiH authorities to opt out from new coal generation facilities financed by China that are contrary to the EU directives on state aid and the country's commitments resulting from the Green Agenda;
Amendment 223 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Calls for urgent action to tackle widespread selective justice, state capture, nepotism, cronyism, high-level corruption and criminal infiltration; reiterates the urgent need for judicial reform across BiH to improve the professionalism and integrity of the judiciary; notably calls for strengthening of the monitoring of performances of judiciary actors and the improvement of corruption monitoring mechanisms;
Amendment 227 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 a (new)
Paragraph 17 a (new)
17 a. Reiterates the need to investigate political and administrative links to organised crime and to effectively prosecute high-profile corruption cases;
Amendment 229 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Recalls the need to update laws and align with the EU on anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism, and to establish an asset recovery office; financing of political parties, and protection of whistleblowers;
Amendment 235 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Underlines the poor cooperation of BiH’s law enforcement agencies and their failure to effectively collaborate with Europol, Eurojust and the European Public Prosecutor’s Office; welcomes bilateral efforts supported by Europol and Eurojust aimed at dismantling people smuggltrafficking networks;
Amendment 243 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Deplores the continuing failure to safeguard media freedom and pluralism; insists on eliminating political interference and protecting journalists from intimidation with systematic judicial follow-upthe safety of journalists with systematic and efficient prosecution; calls on the authorities to take immediate and effective investigative steps in a timely manner; calls on the authorities to assign a special layer of protection to journalists in the criminal codes;
Amendment 251 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Deplores threats from the authorities against civil society; condemns growing restrictions on freedom of expression in theand freedom of assembly in BiH, notably in Republika Srpska entity;
Amendment 255 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 a (new)
Paragraph 22 a (new)
22 a. Stresses the need to ensure the participation of citizens in the democratic life of the country through effective, meaningful and inclusive involvement of civil society organisations in the EU integration process; calls on authorities to ensure an enabling environment for civil society upholding international standards; calls on the authorities to develop and implement a strategic framework of cooperation with civil society and to guarantee an inclusive policy dialogue;
Amendment 260 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Calls on the Commission to refocus IPA III support to in-country democratic forces, institutions and procedures and to civil society organisations;
Amendment 262 #
Amendment 265 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Stresses the need to safeguard the rights of minorities and inclusion of vulnerable populations; calls for stronger country-wide human rights and anti- discrimination strategies and the implementation of an independent body to deal with human rights violations and issues; urges the prevention and proactive prosecution of hate crimes, hate speech and disinformation as well as gender-based and sexual violence;
Amendment 268 #
2021/2245(INI)
24 a. Calls for the amendment of the criminal codes in the Federation of BiH and Brčko District to expand provisions on incitement to hatred and violence so that they include sexual orientation, gender identity and sex characteristics as protected grounds;
Amendment 271 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24 b (new)
Paragraph 24 b (new)
24 b. Is concerned by the level of gender-based violence, for which the institutional response needs to be improved and at abuses against women rights defenders; expects Bosnia and Herzegovina to accelerate the prosecution of crimes of sexual violence and provide reparation to women victims of war crimes; underlines the importance to provide reparation, access to specialised support services, legal aid and safe accommodation to women survivors of war crimes;
Amendment 272 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24 c (new)
Paragraph 24 c (new)
24 c. Recalls the need for specific earmarked funding on gender equality in all EU external financial instruments, and for reduced administrative constraints to allow access to funding for local and small civil society organisations (CSOs) and especially women civil society organisations (WCSOs);
Amendment 275 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24 d (new)
Paragraph 24 d (new)
24 d. Calls for the need to introduce legislation to protect LGBTI+ and for the prosecution of violence and hate crimes against them, as well as for promotimg their social inclusion and adopt a relevant action plan;
Amendment 277 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24 e (new)
Paragraph 24 e (new)
24 e. Calls for the adoption of the Action Plan for Equality of LGBTI Persons in Bosnia and Herzegovina 2021- 2023, which has been stalled since 2020;
Amendment 279 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24 f (new)
Paragraph 24 f (new)
24 f. Welcomes the conclusion of the Intersectoral Working Group on same-sex rights and partnership, which officially recommended a law on same-sex partnership to be drafted; calls on the government to bring this to the government session without delay;
Amendment 282 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24 g (new)
Paragraph 24 g (new)
24 g. Welcomes the fact that the Government of the Canton of Sarajevo covered the security costs of the 2021Sarajevo Pride; calls for the amendment and harmonization of laws regulating freedom of assembly to come in line with international and EU standards;
Amendment 287 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24 h (new)
Paragraph 24 h (new)
24 h. Stresses the need to duly prevent discrimination of Roma and other ethnic minorities, to improve access to healthcare, education, labour market and to develop and implement strategies on social inclusion;
Amendment 290 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24 i (new)
Paragraph 24 i (new)
24 i. Demands BiH to develop and adopt a new action plan on child protection;
Amendment 292 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24 j (new)
Paragraph 24 j (new)
24 j. Stresses that the strengthening of the welfare state in BiH is an important condition for social cohesion;
Amendment 298 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
25. Reiterates its call to urgently end segregation and discrimination in education, including by implementing court rulings to end the discriminatory illegal practice of ‘two schools under one roof’; stresses the need to invest more in the education sector – from pre-school to higher education in order to achieve better and equal opportunities for all including vulnerable groups;
Amendment 300 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25 a (new)
Paragraph 25 a (new)
25 a. Welcomes the continued participation of BiH thanks to IPA support to the Erasmus+, Creative Europe and Europe for Citizens Programmes; stresses that educational and cultural exchanges and joint projects are an essential part of bringing the citizens of BiH and of the EU closer;
Amendment 303 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25 b (new)
Paragraph 25 b (new)
25 b. Urges BiH authorities to address the increasing youth unemployment rate, and to concentrate resources and leverage to ensure a future for BiH young people in their country:
Amendment 304 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25 c (new)
Paragraph 25 c (new)
25 c. Calls on the authorities to foster the social dialogue among social partners on all socio-economic matters and to strengthen the role of trade unions bargaining for collective agreements;
Amendment 307 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
26. Deplores the failure of authorities to address the severe migration-related humanitarian crisis at the border of Croatia and BiH; recalls the need for solidarityhuman rights-based solutions on migration and asylum, ensuring adequate humanitarian assistance and appropriate reception capacities across the country; welcomes the opening of the EU-funded centre in Lipa, especially also medical assistance and vaccination strategies, and appropriate reception capacities across the country; recalls the need for the establishment of accessible and efficient asylum system in the country as well as a full range of integration services for asylum seekers; reiterates its serious concerns over the rights of people in transit in BiH; expresses deep concerns about pushbacks of refugees to Serbia and Montenegro, as well as the limitation of their movement and limitation of public transport inside the country; underlines that the “externalisation” of EU border management and migration control to BiH authorities is of concern in light of violations of human rights standards; states that it is the EU’s duty to conduct a humane and migration approach, that aims at protecting the fundamental rights of persons in need of international protection in countries of transit such as BiH;
Amendment 312 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26 b (new)
Paragraph 26 b (new)
26 b. Condemns the eviction of squats by the police by force on 28 April which happened when people were sleeping; condemns that people were moved to Lipa camp;
Amendment 330 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28
Paragraph 28
28. Calls for the EU to take concrete steps to integrate the Western Balkans and BiH within a broader strategic and security context, also in view of the Russian aggression against Ukraine, disinformation and malign interference destabilising the country and region; stresses the need for the EU to boost its proactive strategic communication to counter attempts at diminishing the EU’s credibility and actions in the region and jeopardizing the country’s unity;
Amendment 332 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28 a (new)
Paragraph 28 a (new)
28 a. Underlines the need for EU to boost assistance and technical expertise to BiH for the protection and securitization of its cyber domain;
Amendment 335 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28 b (new)
Paragraph 28 b (new)
28 b. Urges the EU to assist BiH in increasing its green energy security amid the ongoing war in Ukraine and the precariousness of the energy prices;
Amendment 338 #
2021/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29
Paragraph 29
29. Welcomes EU-funded efforts to boost demining and the disposal of weapons, ammunition and explosives; underlines that BiH officially aligns itself with the criteria and principles of the Common Position on Arms Export and is a State Party to most disarmament, non- proliferation and arms control treaties;
Amendment 7 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 28
Citation 28
— having regard to its resolution of …9 March 2022 on foreign interference in all democratic processes in the European Union, including disinformation,
Amendment 25 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E a (new)
Recital E a (new)
Ea. whereas the EU remains fully committed to supporting Albania’s strategic choice for EU integration, based on good neighbourly relations, and continues being by far the biggest trade and investment partner and the largest provider of financial assistance to the country;
Amendment 34 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E b (new)
Recital E b (new)
Eb. whereas Albania remains a trustworthy foreign policy partner with its full CFSP alignment;
Amendment 35 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E c (new)
Recital E c (new)
Ec. whereas Albania joined the EU efforts in supporting Ukraine by sanctioning Russia, aligning with the votes in the UNGA and working in its capacity as a member of the UNSC;
Amendment 36 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E d (new)
Recital E d (new)
Ed. whereas malign foreign direct and proxy interference and disinformation aim to sow discord and to destabilise the region;
Amendment 37 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas Albania has fulfilled all the conditions for the scheduling of the first Intergovernmental Conference, as already affirmed in the report of the European Parliament on the 2019-2020 Commission report on Albania, and is advancing in its accession process;
Amendment 44 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Reiterates its clear support for Albania’s democratic transformation, underpinned by its strategic orientation and unwavering commitment to European integration, along with good neighbourly relations and inclusive regional cooperation;
Amendment 54 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Recalls the need to uphold the pace and credibility of European integration by promptly opening accession negotiations with Albania and North Macedonia, as continuously recommended by the Commission, given that both countries have fulfilled the conditions set by the European Council and deliver sustained results across fundamental areas;
Amendment 60 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Recognises the transformative nature of the accession negotiations to be conducted under the revised enlargement methodology within a broader strategic context and malicious activities seeking to undermine further integration and the political stability of the Western Balkan countries;
Amendment 79 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Recalls the need to keep addressing the remaining electoral shortcomings by further improving the accessibility and integrity of elections, including through digitalisation, data protection, equitable access to media and revised legislation and rules on political party financing and functioning;
Amendment 85 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Expresses concern over the enduring inflammatory rhetoric, which fuels the culture of intimidation, smear campaigns, violence and riotingincluding by high-level politicians, public officials and other public figures, which fuels the culture of intimidation, smear campaigns, violence and rioting; urges political actors to lead by example in advancing societal dialogue; invites Albania’s political parties to enhance competitive intra-party democracy and integrity as a stepping- stone for pluralism and democratic transformation;
Amendment 89 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8a. Underscores the need to step up the Albanian Parliament’s involvement in the EU integration process, further advancing its legislative, oversight and budgetary capacities; urges the Albanian Parliament to advance on electoral and territorial reforms;
Amendment 93 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Encourages the government to accelerate administrative preparations for the upcoming accession negotiations; stresses the importance of having in place coherent government structures to effectively coordinate EU integration matters ,including by involving civil society and relevant stakeholders and ensuring transparency towards the general public; underlines the need to improve intra-service coordination, evaluation and monitoring of EU-related reforms, to advance decentralisation, country-wide modernisation and depoliticisation of the civil service and to enable conditions to conduct the upcoming population census;
Amendment 98 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Recalls the responsibility of national and local authorities to improve transparency, accountability and inclusiveness by conducting anticipatory, meaningful and regular public stakeholder consultations; urges the authorities to ensure adequate funding, an effective and impartial functioning and consistent implementation of the decisions and recommendations of independent bodies and agencies; underlines the need to enhance participatory democracy, including by adopting a balanced referendum law;
Amendment 102 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10a. Calls for the establishment of proper public consultations and dialogue with the society, including on environmental issues and reconstruction and urbanization projects;
Amendment 103 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Reiterates the need to foster the culture of accountability, non-partisan access to public information and scrutiny of public institutions, in particular through an enabling fiscal and security environment and cooperation with the media and the civil society; calls for further tangible progress in improving legal and financial sustainability and self-regulation of the non-governmental and media sectors;
Amendment 108 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Notes the need for further progress on freedom of expression, media independence and pluralism; urges political figures to stop verbal attacks, smear campaigns and acts of intimidation against journalists, such as lawsuits targeting them; requests authorities to take decisive action against the marginalisation of and intimidation against independent media outlets and reporters; repeats its calls to improve the working conditions of journalists and to adopt regulations enhancing transparency around media ownership, funding and public advertising;
Amendment 110 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Notes the need for further progress on freedom of expression, media independence and pluralism; requests authorities to take decisive action against the marginalisation of and intimidation against independent media outlets and reporters; repeats its calls to improve the working conditions of journalists and to adopt regulations enhancing transparency around media ownership, funding and public advertising; recalls the importance of publicly disclosing the media organizations sources of financing;
Amendment 116 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Recalls that any revision of media laws should be in line with the Venice Commission recommendations and should take place in a transparent and inclusive manner, with the aim of improving media freedom and self-regulation and reducing media concentration, misuse, outside interference and self-censorship;
Amendment 121 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Recalls the need to strengthen investigative journalism, fact-checking and media literacy as means to tackle hate speech, disinformation and fake news; stresses the need to ensure an impartial regulatory functioning of the Audiovisual Media Authority; calls for a reform of the public service broadcaster to enhance its editorial and financial independence, impartiality and professionalism;
Amendment 122 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Recalls the need to strengthen investigative journalism, fact-checking and media literacy as means to tackle hate speech, disinformation and fake news; encourages the support for self-regulatory mechanism of media and stresses the need to ensure an impartial regulatory functioning of the Audiovisual Media Authority;
Amendment 126 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Underlines that the newly established Media and Information Agency should increase transparency and decentralisation and in no way inhibit journalists’ equal access to information from government sources; calls on the government to improve access to the reporting and scrutinising of government’s work via official and formal channels, such as press conferences and interviews;
Amendment 129 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Urges the relevant bodies to systematically and proactively prevent and prosecute all instances of hate speech, hate crimes and intimidation and recalls the need to swiftly and thoroughly investigate all verbal and physical attacks, including against journalists, human rights defenders and people belonging to vulnerable groups, ensuring their safety and security; encourages the office of the Commissioner for Protection from Discrimination to be more proactive in combatting discriminatory hate speech, in particular against LGBTI persons, and to develop disaggregated data collection on the matter;
Amendment 136 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Welcomes advances in ensuring equal opportunities and calls for further improvements in the enforcement of gender equality, property rights, data protection, rights of people with disabilities and minority rights in the field of education, languages, self-identification and protection of cultural heritage; calls on authorities to ensure equal treatment for LGBTI+ and Roma minorities and tackle the multiple discrimination that these groups face, through a systemic and effective institutional approach;
Amendment 150 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 a (new)
Paragraph 17 a (new)
17a. Commends the adoption of the new LGBTI National Action Plan 2021- 2027 and encourages full implementation and proper budgeting via a coordination and monitoring body;
Amendment 152 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 b (new)
Paragraph 17 b (new)
17b. Considers that reported doubling numbers of HIV infections since last year are highly concerning; recalls that the National Strategy for People Living with HIV expired in 2020 and has not been renewed; calls on the government to take appropriate measures, in liaison with civil society, to address the rising numbers of HIV infections and ensure access to healthcare of those most vulnerable;
Amendment 165 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Recalls the need to ensure the right to freedom of peaceful assembly and notes the importance of addressing allegations of police misconduct and disproportionate use of force; expresses support to the independent vetting of high-ranking officers and suggests introducing regular integrity-checks of police officers; urges to advance the penitentiary reform to further improve prison conditions and treatment of prisoners;
Amendment 166 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Recalls the need to effectively ensure the right to freedom of peaceful assembly without arbitrary or discriminatory case-by-case treatment and notes the importance of addressing allegations of police misconduct and investigating and prosecuting the disproportionate use of force;
Amendment 170 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 a (new)
Paragraph 20 a (new)
20a. Recalls the need to address communist-era crimes, investigate enforced disappearances, prosecute those responsible and provide reparations to the survivors and their families;
Amendment 173 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Welcomes Albania’s long-standing proven commitment to hosting refugees; recalls the authorities’ obligation to ensure due asylum process and to address the needs of refugees, asylum seekers and migrants; calls on the EU to boost its support for humanitarian assistance in the region, to be conducted in full respect of the fundamental rights; notes the continued reduction of unfounded asylum claims by Albanian nationals and the fulfilment of visa liberalisation benchmarks;
Amendment 174 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Welcomes Albania’s long-standing proven commitment to hosting refugees; recalls the authorities’ obligation to ensure due asylum process and to address the needs of refugees, asylum seekers and migrants; welcomes Albania decision of sheltering Afghan citizens seeking refuge after leaving their country;
Amendment 177 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 a (new)
Paragraph 21 a (new)
21a. Underlines that the rule of law and judicial reforms are the backbone of a democratic transformation, ensuring legal certainty, transparency, access to justice and non-discrimination;
Amendment 183 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Commends the steady progress in implementing a comprehensive justice reform, underpinned by the unprecedented vetting process, follow; expresses concern for some of its side-effects, such as the length of proceedings, low clearance rate and high backlog especially in the High Court and Administrative Court of Appeal; calls on the state authorities to ensure specific measures to reduce the backlog , to improve the citizens access to justice and to speed up judicial proceedings, facilitated by a restored functionality of relevant courts;
Amendment 199 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
26. Urges all sides to ensure the completion of the vetting process; welcomes the progress in improving the professionalism, impartiality and accountability of the judiciary, aimed at ensuring its independence from undue influence and resolving the mounting backlog of cases; reminds of the obligation to guarantee an effective operation of judicial self-governing bodies;
Amendment 201 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
26. Urges all sides to ensureNotes with satisfaction the agreement reached to extend the mandate for the completion of the vetting process;
Amendment 206 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28
Paragraph 28
28. Underlines the importance of taking decisive action against money laundering by ensuring a consistent track record of proactive investigation, prosecution and final convictions for high-level corruption and confiscation of criminal assets; also notes the importance of implementing the FATF Action Plan and the “Moneyval recommendations” and fully implementing the recently amended legislation aligning with the EU’s rules on anti-money laundering/countering terrorism financing;
Amendment 210 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28 a (new)
Paragraph 28 a (new)
28a. Recalls an immense potential of digitalisation for serving justice, eradicating criminal activities and conflicts of interest through asset and interest disclosure and verification;
Amendment 215 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29
Paragraph 29
29. Welcomes the ongoing efforts that should lead to systemic improvements in tackling the trafficking of humans, firearms and goods, along with cybercrime, violent crime, extremism and terrorist threats; commends the ongoing bilateral and international cooperation on dismantling transnational crime networks, including with the EU Justice and Home Affairs Agencies, covering the intensified action against the production and trafficking of drugs, illegal weapons and people smugglers;
Amendment 228 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30 a (new)
Paragraph 30 a (new)
30a. Underlines that simplification and modernisation of the tax system and improved tax collection would facilitate the management of public spending and the deficit in the face of rising energy and food prices;
Amendment 229 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30 b (new)
Paragraph 30 b (new)
30b. Stresses that improved governance, transparency, legal certainty, inclusion and social dialogue are essential for stimulating foreign direct investment and the retention of skilled workers;
Amendment 230 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30 c (new)
Paragraph 30 c (new)
30c. Welcomes EU support to reconstruction, including the rebuilding of schools and kindergartens and cultural heritage sites in the aftermath of the Together4Albania Donors’ Conference following the devastating earthquake of November 2019;
Amendment 234 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32
Paragraph 32
32. Encourages the Albanian authorities to reduce the risk of poverty and social exclusion by improving access to social, education and healthcare services, especially for disadvantaged populations such as Roma minority and Egyptian communities, people with disabilities and the poor;
Amendment 235 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32
Paragraph 32
32. Encourages the Albanian authorities to reduce the risk of poverty and social exclusion by improving access to social and healthcare services, especially for disadvantaged populations; urges the setting of a minimum standard of living, as a means to reduce the risk of poverty;
Amendment 245 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34
Paragraph 34
34. Strongly urges authorities to step up measures on biodiversity, water, air, climate protection and regional waste management, including through comprehensive environmental and strategic impact assessments, proper public consultations and rigorous prosecution of environmental crime;
Amendment 247 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34 a (new)
Paragraph 34 a (new)
34a. Urges the Albanian authorities to advance on implementing the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans, which mirrors European Green Deal priorities and the Brdo Declaration, which was adopted at the EU-Western Balkans summit in Brdo pri Kranju on 6 October 2021;
Amendment 249 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34 b (new)
Paragraph 34 b (new)
34b. Expresses concerns over the changing map of Protected Areas, which should not contribute to environmental degradation in Albania’s threatened coastal and wetland areas;
Amendment 250 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34 c (new)
Paragraph 34 c (new)
34c. Calls on authorities to prioritize the monitoring and annual reporting of Air Pollution in Urban and Industrial Areas, Noise Pollution in Urban Areas and Surface Water Quality; notes the necessity to regularly inform the population regarding the ambient pollution status;
Amendment 255 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 35
Paragraph 35
35. Recalls that substantial efforts are needed to enforce the goals relating to efficiency, security, diversification and greening of the energy supply and transport; recalls the necessity to increase environmental sustainability of hydro- power;
Amendment 259 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 35 a (new)
Paragraph 35 a (new)
35a. Recalls the importance of the diversification of energy sources, of the implementation of the Climate Law, of developing carbon pricing instruments and addressing energy poverty;
Amendment 260 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 35 b (new)
Paragraph 35 b (new)
35b. Reaffirms the role of the future Tirana-Podgorica rail link, Elbasan- Bitola electricity interconnector and Fier- Vlora gas pipeline in enhancing the regional and trans-European connectivity;
Amendment 261 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 35 c (new)
Paragraph 35 c (new)
35c. Welcomes the launch of 3.2 billion Euros investment package, as part of the EU’s Economic and Investment Plan (EIP) for the Western Balkans and highlights the transformative role of these investments; notes with satisfaction that one of the financed projects will be the first floating solar power plant in Albania in Vau i Dejës reservoir;
Amendment 262 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 35 d (new)
Paragraph 35 d (new)
35d. Welcomes the start of works on the interconnector of power transmission systems of North Macedonia and Albania;
Amendment 269 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 36 a (new)
Paragraph 36 a (new)
36a. Welcomes Albania’s strong reaction against the Russian aggression in Ukraine and continued complete alignment with EU decisions and sanctions;
Amendment 279 #
2021/2244(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 38 a (new)
Paragraph 38 a (new)
38a. Welcomes steps aimed at enhancing regional connectivity and integration through the Common Regional Market under an inclusive approach;
Amendment 3 #
2021/2237(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 6
Citation 6
Amendment 12 #
2021/2237(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A a (new)
Recital A a (new)
Aa. whereas the AA/DCFTA is based on the common values on which the EU is built - namely democracy, respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, and the rule of law - and these values lie also at the heart of political association and economic integration as envisaged in AA/DCFTA Agreement;
Amendment 14 #
2021/2237(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
Ba. whereas the current emergency COVID-19 EU macro-financial assistance programme for Moldova was completed, with the first tranche of EUR 50 million disbursed in November 2020 and a second 50 million EUR instalment on 7 October 2021, following significant progress achieved in fulfilling the policy conditions of the Memorandum of Understanding;
Amendment 33 #
2021/2237(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the historic results of the presidential election in 2020 and the parliamentary elections in 2021, whereby the people of the Republic of Moldova gave a strong mandate to pro-reform and pro-European political forces; urges the political leadership of the Republic of Moldova to seize this unique opportunity to implement long-overdue reforms and to advance European integration based on common values of democracy, respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, and the rule of law;
Amendment 55 #
2021/2237(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Welcomes the results of the sixth Eastern Partnership summit held on 15 December 2021, which reaffirmed the significant achievements of cooperation in this format and charted an ambitious course for future cooperation based on shared values and focusing on recovery, resilience and reform; acknowledges the initiative by the Republic of Moldova, Georgia and Ukraine to enhance their cooperation as the three associated partners of the EU (‘Associationed Trio’);
Amendment 65 #
2021/2237(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Welcomes the decisive action by the EU and its Member States as ‘Team Europe’ in mitigating the socio-economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic through vaccine donations and financial support; stresses that the Economic Recovery Plan for the Republic of Moldova, worth up to EUR 600 million, is a key element in the Republic of Moldova’s recovery, which presents a unique opportunity to restructure the economy, fight social inequalities, boost green and digital transformation and to prepare it for other future challenges;
Amendment 90 #
2021/2237(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
Amendment 100 #
2021/2237(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Notes that while the presidential and the early parliamentary elections were well managed and competitive, persistentremaining shortcomings need to be addressed by implementing the recommendations of the Council of Europe Venice Commission and the OSCE/ODIHR, including enhancing the electoral legal framework in line with OSCE commitments and other international standards, prompt and thorough investigation of credible allegations of vote-buying and illegal inducements of voters, enhanced transparency and accountability of campaign finance, better enforcement of the existing Audiovisual Media Services Code’s provisions on impartial coverage during the campaign, better guarantees to ensure that courts enjoy freedom from political pressures and remain fully impartial in the handling of election- related cases;
Amendment 112 #
2021/2237(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Welcomes the agreement between the EU and the Republic of Moldova on launching a High-Level Political and Security Dialogue; invites the Republic of Moldova to further align its positions with those of CFSP and to continue and enhance its contribution to Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) and its missions;
Amendment 123 #
2021/2237(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Reiterates its support for a comprehensive and peaceful settlement of the Transnistria conflict through the 5+2 negotiation process based on the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of Moldova with a special status for Transnistria;
Amendment 126 #
2021/2237(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10a. Stresses the importance of the EU Border Assistance Mission to Moldova and Ukraine (EUBAM) in its contribution to the peaceful settlement of the Transnistrian conflict through confidence-building measures and as a monitoring presence at the Transnistrian segment of the Moldova-Ukraine border;
Amendment 154 #
2021/2237(INI)
12. Reiterates the fundamental importance of justice reform and the fight against corruption; recognises the magnitude of the challenge faced by the authorities and encourages them to focus on established priorities; calls forto accelerate the ongoing justice reform including the adoption and implementation of the Strategy for Ensuring the Independence and Integrity of the Justice Sector 2021- 2024;
Amendment 157 #
2021/2237(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
12a. Is convinced that a large scale corruption is one of the main problems impeding Moldova’s progress; calls on Moldova’s government to increase effectiveness of the legal and institutional anti-corruption infrastructure; welcomes the creation of the Anticorruption Independent Consultative Committee that will investigate corruption in the country's financial and banking sectors as well as corruption within the state's institutions;
Amendment 166 #
2021/2237(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Deplores the fact thUrges to accelerate the investigation into the bank fraud exposed in 2014 has still not yielded significant results in terms of bringing those responsible to justice and recovering lost assets; stresses that this lack of progress has a serious negative effect on the Moldova’s international reputation and, in particular, on the credibility of the justice system in the eyes not only of the people of the Republic of Moldova, but also of the country’s international partners;
Amendment 217 #
2021/2237(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)
Paragraph 16 a (new)
16a. Welcomes the diversification of the Moldovan economy and growing trade between the Republic of Moldova and the Union, as well as the fact that the Union is the largest investor in the country; encourages further progress in areas such as the customs code, the protection of intellectual property rights, the improvement of sanitary and phytosanitary standards, the improvement of market conditions in the field of energy, public procurement, and access to finance for SMEs;
Amendment 224 #
2021/2237(INI)
16b. Calls on Moldova to continue the regulatory approximation with the EU acquis; calls on the Commission and the Member States to support the Moldovan institutions and public administration with necessary expertise, technical and financial help; calls on the Moldovan authorities to progress more rapidly on approximation to the AA/DCFTA;
Amendment 229 #
Amendment 230 #
2021/2237(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 c (new)
Paragraph 16 c (new)
16c. Welcomes the launch of the EU- Moldova High- Level Dialogue on Energy and encourages launching similar High- level dialogues with the EU to strengthen cooperation in other sectorial fields;
Amendment 234 #
2021/2237(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 d (new)
Paragraph 16 d (new)
16d. Strongly condemns the artificial limitations of gas supply in order to put political pressure on the Republic of Moldova to change its geopolitical orientation; urges the Commission to continue providing the Republic of Moldova with the financial and technical support necessary to ensure its resilience against such external interference; calls on the Moldovan authorities to maintain the country’s commitment as a member of the Energy Community to implementing the EU’s Third Energy Package, in particular the unbundling of gas and electricity transmission and distribution;
Amendment 236 #
2021/2237(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 e (new)
Paragraph 16 e (new)
16e. Urges the Moldovan Government to continue reforms in the energy sector in order to improve diversification of the Republic of Moldova’s energy supplies, develop renewable energy sources, increase resilience and transparency in the sector, strengthen energy efficiency and independence, in particularly by increasing energy interconnections with the European Union; stresses that all these aspects are of paramount importance for enhancing the country’s energy security;
Amendment 239 #
2021/2237(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 f (new)
Paragraph 16 f (new)
16f. Requests the Commission to support the Republic of Moldova’s integration with the European continental power grid (ENTSO-E); notes that the support and promotion of the EU enhanced cooperation with the EaP associated countries in these sectors will create economic growth and will strengthen the energy resilience of the region;
Amendment 240 #
2021/2237(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 g (new)
Paragraph 16 g (new)
16g. Welcomes steps to interconnect the electricity system of the Republic of Moldova with the EU via Romania, considers it as a significant step on the way to strengthening and diversifying the Republic of Moldova’s energy infrastructure;
Amendment 241 #
2021/2237(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 h (new)
Paragraph 16 h (new)
16h. Welcomes the progress made by Moldovan authorities towards improving its safety oversight system and implementing international aviation safety standards that led to the removal of all air carriers certified in the Republic of Moldova from the EU Air Safety List, and calls the Moldovan authorities to ensure the implementation of the EU-Republic of Moldova Common Aviation Area Agreement;
Amendment 242 #
2021/2237(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 i (new)
Paragraph 16 i (new)
16i. Calls for increased cooperation and the gradually integration of the Republic of Moldova into the EU Transport network; stresses the need for the Republic of Moldova to advance in implementing the relevant acquis; calls for the Republic of Moldova and the EU to advance work on the Moldovan sections of the trans- European extended transport network for EaP (TEN-T), to support the railway sector reforms and to explore together with the Member States and International Financial Institutions possibilities for upgrading the EU- Republic of Moldova rail connections;
Amendment 248 #
2021/2237(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Stresses the importance of fighting disinformation, fake news and propaganda,information manipulation, fake news and propaganda, as well as any malign foreign interferences in particular through strategic communication; hopes that the reconstituted Television and Radio Broadcasting Council will effectively carry out its tasks as a media watchdog and address the long-standing shortcomings of the media landscape; underlines the need to boost cooperation between the EU and Moldova in this area; welcomes the work of the EEAS East StratCom Task Force in this respect;
Amendment 256 #
2021/2237(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 a (new)
Paragraph 18 a (new)
18a. Urges the Moldovan authorities to foster free and independent media; is concerned by the high level of concentration and politicisation of the media, leading to a low level of public confidence in the media; takes the view that strengthening media pluralism and its independence should be a priority for the Union and the Republic of Moldova in their partnership relations; calls on the Commission to increase support to the independent media, including in the regions;
Amendment 260 #
2021/2237(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 b (new)
Paragraph 18 b (new)
18b. Calls on the EU institutions to analyse the possibility of including the Republic of Moldova and the other EaP associated countries as observers at their relevant committees and working group meetings to show the EU’s commitments to further integration and to strengthening the countries’ reform orientation and administrative know-how; request the Commission to explore the possibility to expand certain EU programmes for the citizens of the Republic of Moldova and other EaP Countries; stress that expansion of the programmes such as “DiscoverEU” into Moldova could further strengthen pro- European sentiments in the country;
Amendment 273 #
2021/2237(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Welcomes the signature on 29 November 2021 of the Memorandum of Understanding between the European Parliament and the Parliament of Moldova on a joint framework for parliamentary democracy support, which opens up opportunities for strengthening its institutional capacity and thereby parliamentary democracy in the Republic of Moldova through closer bilateral institutional ties; invites the Parliament of Moldova to implement the full range of democracy support activities available to it, including a Jean Monnet Dialogue and a Simone Veil programme, on the basis of a mutually agreed roadmap;
Amendment 6 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 3 a (new)
Citation 3 a (new)
Amendment 7 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 3 b (new)
Citation 3 b (new)
— having regard to its Report on Challenges and Prospects for multilateral WMD arms control and disarmament regime of 15 December 2021;
Amendment 8 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 3 c (new)
Citation 3 c (new)
— having regard to its Report on the State of EU cyber defence capabilities of 7 October 2021;
Amendment 9 #
2021/2232(INI)
— having regard to the EU Action Plan against Disinformation;
Amendment 20 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 17 a (new)
Citation 17 a (new)
— having regard to the Partnership Agreement on Relations and Cooperation between New Zealand and the European Union of 5 October 2016;
Amendment 21 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 17 b (new)
Citation 17 b (new)
— having regard to the EU- Singapore Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA), signed in Brussels on 19 October 2018,
Amendment 23 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 20 a (new)
Citation 20 a (new)
Amendment 24 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 20 b (new)
Citation 20 b (new)
— having regard to the AUKUS security pact of 15 September 2021,
Amendment 25 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 20 c (new)
Citation 20 c (new)
— having regard the Global Gateway Strategy launched on 01 December 2021,
Amendment 28 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas the EU defines the Indo- Pacific as a varied region spanning from the east coast of Africa to the Pacific island states; whereas the Indo-Pacific region, home to 60 % of the world’s population and seven G20 members, is a key shapercomponent of the global international order and home to increasingly important political, trade and security partners for the EU;
Amendment 32 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas the recently adopted EU strategy for cooperation in the Indo- Pacific, which is based on a principled engagement with a long-term perspective, reflects a deep evolution in the way the EU looks at its interests in the region and the potential role it can play to promote its values and interests there; whereas building strong relations and security cooperation with Indo-Pacific regional organisations and countries is central to the strategy;
Amendment 40 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas in recent years the dynamics in the region have given rise to intense geopolitical competition, mirrored in an increase in military spending and a more aggressive rhetoric, thereby calling into question the rules-based international order; whereas a new centre of global competition has therefore evolved in the Indo-Pacific region; whereas there is no overarching regional security order to mitigate the associated challenges; whereas such dynamics represent serious threats to stability and security in the region and beyond, impacting directly the EU’s strategic interests as a key political and economic partner of the countries in the region; whereas the EU is committed to human security, peace and international law;
Amendment 54 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas China’s rapid military build-up, coupled with its increasingly assertive behaviour in the Indo-Pacific region and its military activities in the East and South China Seas, as well as its deliberate and repetitive violations of Taiwan’s air defence identification zone and its increasingly aggressive rhetoric, disinformation and media campaigns, are leading to rising tensions in the Indo- Pacific;
Amendment 61 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E a (new)
Recital E a (new)
E a. whereas the EU counts on the new US government to cooperate strongly in security and defence issues in the Indo- Pacific and worldwide, whereas the EU and the US share the same values;
Amendment 62 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E b (new)
Recital E b (new)
E b. whereas the COVID 19 crisis demonstrated the importance of reliable supply chains, and more balanced economic ties with China without being vulnerable in critical aspects of sustainable development both for Europe and for the Indo-Pacific countries, while strengthening economic and security cooperation and building partnership; whereas some countries in the region want stronger cooperation with the EU;
Amendment 70 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E c (new)
Recital E c (new)
E c. whereas the EU is already top investor and leading development cooperation and trading partner in the Indo-Pacific region;
Amendment 72 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E d (new)
Recital E d (new)
Amendment 73 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E e (new)
Recital E e (new)
E e. whereas the first and most important way of ensuring peace, security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region is deepening cooperation, as well as stepping up assistance in eradicating poverty, social injustice, infectious diseases, human rights violations, environmental degradation and other roots causes to instability, insecurity and violence;
Amendment 80 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the recently adopted EU strategy for cooperation in the Indo- Pacific; recognises the added value of the strategy as the first foundation stone of the EU’s united approach to the region, and praises the inclusive and multifaceted nature of the strategy and the inclusion of security and defence as one of its seven priority areas; calls for the EU to use the strategy as a tool to effectively assertstrengthen its presence and influence in the region through furthering strategic ties and deepening cooperation on security- and defence-related matters with regional countries and organisations; believes that increased EU engagement in the region would contribute to regional security, and help overcome regional tensions and create more balanced relations among regional players; recalls that the strategy is a Team Europe project;
Amendment 82 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1 a. Underlines that the Indo-Pacific region is very diverse, and that no one- size-fits-all approach can be applied; appreciates the holistic approach and positive agenda presented in the EU Strategy, and invites the EU to as well pursue fruitful bilateral relations with partners in the region;
Amendment 89 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Highlights the need to safeguard EU unity as a pre-conditionin order to achieve the EU’s ambition of strategic sovereignty amid the increasing competition between the United States and Chinamulti-faceted threats and increased competition between powers; recalls that the EU’s unified approach must be underpinned by a pragmatic and, principled and value-based foreign and security policy, so as to deliver peace, human security, sustainable development and democracy;
Amendment 96 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Stresses the EU’s determination to promote an open, stable and rules-based regional security architecture, based on respect for democracy, the rule of law, human rights and international law, and including secure sea lines of communication, capacity-building and an enhanced naval presence, in accordance with the legal framework established by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS); urges the EU to further engage with the democratic countries and organisations of the Indo- Pacific to foster and further build inclusive and effective partnerships, and, therefore, strengthen multilateralism via the UN and other international organisations; recalls that non-compliance or an explicit violation of these values and principles would have negative repercussions on the EU’s engagement in bilateral and regional partnerships and could lead to sanctions;
Amendment 100 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Calls on the EU to make use of its position and reputation as a credible and reliable actorglobal actor for peace amid the growing geopolitical competition between global and regional powers in the Indo- Pacific; recalls that the added value of EU engagement in the Indo-Pacific lies in its comprehensive range of civilian and military assistance measures, including well developed non-military contributions; recalls that the EU has a vast network of diplomatic assets to facilitate dialogue on, mediation, conflict prevention, conflict- resolution, legal solutions and expertise in setting up confidence-building measures; and emphasises the capability of the EU in the field of multilateralism;
Amendment 115 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Stresses its concern that the current tensions and disputes in the region, unless properly mediated and managed, pose a threat to free and open communication in the maritime, air, space and cyber areas, which are essential to maintain regional and global trading routes and global peace and security;
Amendment 124 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Expresses deep concerns about China’s rapid military build-up, including its test of a hypersonic missile, and its increasingly assertive behaviour, which aims, among other things, to advance its territorial claims in the East and South China Seas; highlights that security hotspots and unresolved issues, such as the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea’s nuclear programme, the recent China-India border standoffs, the crackdown on democracy in Hong Kong and Macau, and threats posed by China to the territorial integrity of Taiwan, exert further strain on regional security and stability; highlights that the EU’s approach towards China must be unified, pragmatic, multifaceted and principled, including cooperating on issues of shared interest, such as climate change, on the one hand, and competing when it comes to providing economic, political and strategic alternatives to third countries, and confronting China on matters where our respective views diverge substantially, such as the respect for Human Rights, the treatment of the Uyghurs minority and the interference in Tibet's religious freedom, on the other hand;
Amendment 128 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Expresses deep concerns about China’s rapid military build-up, including its test of a hypersonic missile, and its increasingly assertive behaviour, which aims, among other things, to advance its territorial claims in the East and South China Seas; highlights that security hotspots and unresolved issues, such as the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea’s nuclear programme, the recent China-India border standoffs, the crackdown on democracy in Hong Kong, and threats posed by China to the territorial integrity of Taiwan, exert further strain on regional security and stability; highlights that the EU’s approach towards China must be unified, pragmatic, multifaceted and principled, including cooperating on issues of shared interest, such as climate change, on the one hand, and competing when it comes towhile providing economic, political and strategic alternatives to third countries, and confronting China on matters where our respective views diverge substantially, such as human rights, on the other hand;
Amendment 129 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6 a. Deplores the lack of unity in the Council of the European Union over the adoption of measures to address China’s anti-democratic policy and aggressive behaviour, which endangers the sovereignty of its neighbours and the stability of the Indo-Pacific region; calls on the EU and it’s Member States to act in a unified manner regarding the policy on China; highlights the importance of taking the necessary steps to introduce qualified majority voting in the Council in the field of the common security and defence policy and the common foreign and security policy;
Amendment 135 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Welcomes the very timely new EU- US dialogue on China and the establishment of EU-US consultations on the Indo-Pacific, and calls for a coordinated approach towards strengthening multilateral institutions and regional organisations, promoting democracy and ,enhancing democratic resilience and strengthening the cooperation on security matters in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond;
Amendment 147 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Takes note of the recent conclusion of the AUKUS trilateral security pact; regrets the little consultation and information of EU Allies on the pact; is of the firm opinion that strong EU-Australia relations are important for the stability of the region and that these should be further advanced and not affected by the conclusion of AUKUS; calls on the Vice- President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy (VP/HR) to examine with the relevant partners possibilities to set up a permanent dialogue with AUKUS and representation at the meetings of the members of QUAD in order to align our strategies on the Indo- Pacific and strengthen synergies;
Amendment 163 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading 3
Subheading 3
Enhancing partnerships with regional organisations and democratic countries
Amendment 166 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Stresses that enhancing existing partnerships with regional actors and building new ones is a key feature of the strategy; highlights that priority areas for cooperation should include capacity- building, hybrid threats, non-proliferation, disarmament and crisis response, maritime security, joint-exercises, cyber security, counter terrorism, tackling foreign interference and disinformation campaigns, as well as the climate/security nexus;
Amendment 173 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Highlights the longstanding cooperation between the EU and ASEAN on security and defence matters, and welcomes the recent upgrade of bilateral relations to a strategic partnership; reiterates its strong commitment to support ASEAN’s centrality and inclusive multilateral architecture; calls for the EU to anchor and extend its presence in the region by deepening cooperation with ASEAN and its members; invites the EU and ASEAN to identify ways to involve the EU in the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus and in the East Asia Summit; underlines the fundamental role of the parliamentary dimension and of parliamentary diplomacy for strengthening democracy in the region, and encourages, therefore, the establishment of an EU- ASEAN Parliamentary Assembly and more numerous and regular parliamentary exchanges and missions to the region;
Amendment 181 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Calls for the EU toWelcomes the strengthening of its dialogue with NATO’between NATO and its four Asia- Pacific partners, namely Australia, Japan, the Republic of Korea and New Zealand, with a view to addressing cross-cutting security issues and global challenges and enhancing mutual situational awareness on security developments in the Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific regions, notably in the NAC+4 format; calls for the EU to develop a similar dialogue with the four Asia-Pacific partners; appreciates the focus of this cooperation on cyber defence, non-proliferation, civil preparedness and the UN’s Women, Peace and Security agenda; invites NATO to use its 2030 reflection process to enhance cooperation with its partners in order to defend shared values, bolster resilience and uphold the international rules-based order, while ensuring greater consistency between policies on Chinain addressing China’s growing influence;
Amendment 217 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Welcomes the positive role Taiwan plays in fostering peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region; stresses the importance of the EU’s support in maintaining the peace and security across the Taiwan strait; calls for the EU to foster constructive dialogues between China and Taiwan;
Amendment 224 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 a (new)
Paragraph 19 a (new)
19 a. Welcomes the positive role played by New Zealand in regional peace and security; appreciates that a strong focus in the Partnership Agreement on Relations and Cooperation between the EU and New Zealand on countering the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and combating illicit trade of small arms and light weapons;
Amendment 227 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Underlines the important cooperantribution byof Indo-Pacific partners into the EU’s CSDP missions and operations through framework participation agreements (FPAs) with Australia, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea and Vietnam, and calls for the conclusion of further FPAs with democratic partner countries;
Amendment 229 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Calls for the EU to inviteWelcomes the interest of like- minded Indo-Pacific partners to participate in selected PESCO projects, which would meet an agreed set of political, substantive and legal conditions; stresses that such co-operation could be in the strategic interest of the EU, inter alia when it comes to providing technical expertise or additional capabilities, particularly in the case of strategic partners like Indo-Pacific democracies;
Amendment 235 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 a (new)
Paragraph 22 a (new)
22 a. Emphasises the importance of building a strong cooperation and partnership with the African countries of the Indo-Pacific region, and that a balanced and pragmatic approach is necessary;
Amendment 236 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 b (new)
Paragraph 22 b (new)
22 b. Recalls the importance of trade agreements as first steps toward a stronger cooperation with democratic countries; reminds that these agreements should include strong human rights, democracy and sustainability chapters;
Amendment 241 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Highlights that maritime security and freedom of navigation, which must be ensured in accordance with international law and, in particular, the UNCLOS, are among the key challenges in the Indo- Pacific; calls for the EU to enhance maritime cooperation with countries in the Indo-Pacific by establishing systematic and coordinated frameworks, including joint exercises and, port calls and fight against piracy that would advance naval diplomacy and contribute to regional maritime security;
Amendment 243 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Calls for the EU and its Members States to step-up their own maritime capacities in the region in a coordinated way, including by exploring ways to ensure a permanent European naval presence in the Indian Ocean; stresses the need to increase the EU’s capacity as an effective maritime security provider; highlights the fact that France is the only Member State with a permanent military presence in the Indian Ocean; welcomes the fact that the Netherlands and Germany have sent frigates to the region; underlines that more such naval missions will be needed in the future; welcomes the joint naval exercises that EUNAFOR Atalanta has thus far undertaken with partner countries,underlines that EUNAVFOR Atalanta has an important role of naval diplomacy; welcomes its strong contribution to regional security in the Indian Ocean, notably successfully protecting World Programme Vessels and in curbing piracy and fostering maritime security; underlines the importance of the security-development-humanitarian nexus; welcomes the joint naval exercises that EUNAFOR Atalanta has thus far undertaken with partner countries notably India, Japan and Djibouti, the cooperation with New Zealand and US Navy, and the work together with NATO Operation Ocean Shield and with Agenor; sees these cooperations around EUNAVFOR Atalanta as a best practice to be inspired from; and calls for the EU to consider expanding its geographical scope deeper into the Indian Ocean; invites notably along the coast of Mozambique; welcomes discussions in the FAC for the EU to establish a maritime area of interest in the Western Indo- Pacific with a view to extending its Coordinated Maritime Presences concept, building on the Member States’ individual assets; calls for strong synergies with EUNAVFOR Atalanta;
Amendment 254 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24 a (new)
Paragraph 24 a (new)
24 a. Underlines the important work conducted by EUCAP Somalia and EUTM Somalia and welcomes the synergies built with EUNAVFOR Atalanta;
Amendment 255 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24 b (new)
Paragraph 24 b (new)
24 b. Welcomes the rapid launch of EUTM Mozambique;
Amendment 261 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27
Paragraph 27
27. Underlines the importance of information and cybersecurity as annd the fight against hybrid threats as a new type of warfare targeting also elements of the critical infrastructure of the global economy and for protecting democracies from disinformation and malicious attacks; calls for strengthened cooperation with democratic Indo Pacific partners in developing global norms for responsible state behaviour in cyberspace, on sharing best practices in cybersecurity and working together on collective attribution and coordinated sanctions in working towards strict global rules on the military use of artificial intelligence and a global ban on fully autonomous weapons systems;
Amendment 273 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28
Paragraph 28
28. Welcomes the cooperation launched between the EU and a number of Indo-Pacific partners on cybersecurity and defence; calls for the EU to accelerate the establishment of an EU Cyber Diplomacy Network, aimed to promote cybersecurity norms and legal frameworks in the region; calls for mechanisms to share evidence and intelligence between the EU and democratic Indo-Pacific partners in order to feed into the establishment of cyber sanction lists;
Amendment 280 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30
Paragraph 30
30. Underlines the growing importance of the space dimension of international cooperation and security; calls on stronger cooperation between the EU and democratic Indo-Pacific partners to strive for a global agreement preventing the weaponisation of space;
Amendment 283 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading 7
Subheading 7
Amendment 300 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32
Paragraph 32
32. Highlights that the risk of proliferation of nuclear weapons and the rapid build-up and deployment of new technologically advanced nuclear capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region remain major regional and global security concerns; calls for maintaining the international treaties on non- proliferation;
Amendment 302 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32 a (new)
Paragraph 32 a (new)
32 a. Warns that DPKR nuclear activities present a serious threat to international peace and security, and to global disarmament and non-proliferation efforts; reiterates its will to work towards achieving a complete, irreversible and verifiable denuclearisation of the Korean peninsula; urges the DPRK to swiftly sign and ratify the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT) and return to compliance with the NPT;
Amendment 305 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32 b (new)
Paragraph 32 b (new)
Amendment 307 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32 c (new)
Paragraph 32 c (new)
32 c. Calls on the states outside of the NPT framework in possession of nuclear weapons - including India and Pakistan- to refrain from the proliferation of any military-related nuclear technology and to become party to the NPT;
Amendment 308 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32 d (new)
Paragraph 32 d (new)
32 d. Calls on the EU to assist efforts of universalising existing WMD disarmament and non-proliferation treaties and instruments; asks the EEAS to also work on strengthening the training and capacity-building of our partners; praises the EU chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear defence (CBRN) Risk Mitigation Centres of Excellence initiative, funded under the NDICI, in this respect, and underlines the work done in the South East Asia one;
Amendment 313 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 33 a (new)
Paragraph 33 a (new)
33 a. Emphasises that the Indo-Pacific region is highly exposed to climate change, which causes serious security challenges in the region; and therefore calls for climate to be at the heart of the security pillar of the EU - Indo-Pacific cooperation;
Amendment 316 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 33 b (new)
Paragraph 33 b (new)
33 b. Considers large-scale disinformation campaigns and malign foreign interference as a form of hybrid warfare; calls for stronger cooperation between the EU and democratic Indo- Pacific partners in this respect, notably on sharing best practices to counter them, improving strategic communication, and gathering evidence in order to improve collective attribution and sanctions;
Amendment 317 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 33 c (new)
Paragraph 33 c (new)
33 c. Underlines the crucial importance of improving the security of supply chains for critical materials such as inter alia raw materials, chemical, pharmaceutical products and points to the possibility to have stronger commercial links with democratic Indo-Pacific partners in this respect ;
Amendment 318 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 33 d (new)
Paragraph 33 d (new)
33 d. Welcomes the increased EU focus on protecting its critical infrastructures; calls for stronger cooperation between the EU and democratic Indo-Pacific partners in this field, notably in the exchange of best practices;
Amendment 319 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 33 e (new)
Paragraph 33 e (new)
33 e. Calls for further advancing the Women, Peace and Security and Youth, Peace and Security Agendas in the Indo- Pacific; stresses the importance and the positive added value of the participation of women in peace keeping and peace building, including in negotiations and missions;
Amendment 320 #
2021/2232(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 33 f (new)
Paragraph 33 f (new)
33 f. Welcomes the strong focus put on human security in the EU Indo-Pacific Strategy;
Amendment 6 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4 a (new)
Citation 4 a (new)
Amendment 19 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 10 a (new)
Citation 10 a (new)
— having regard to the Memorandum of Understanding on a Strategic Partnership in the Field of Energy between the EU and Azerbaijan signed in Baku on 18 July 2022,
Amendment 22 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 12 a (new)
Citation 12 a (new)
— having regard to the United Nations resolutions on the ongoing war in Ukraine, namely the ES-11/1 and ES-11/2 of March 2022, ES-11/3 of April 2022 and ES-11/4 of October 2022,
Amendment 24 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 14 a (new)
Citation 14 a (new)
— having regard to the European Convention on Human Rights, ratified by Azerbaijan in 2002,
Amendment 35 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas since the collapse of the Soviet Union, the conflictNagorno-Karabakh conflict and the war between Armenia and Azerbaijan hasve resulted in tens of thousands of casualties, immense destruction and the displacement of hundreds of thousands of people while the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict has not been resolved yet;
Amendment 41 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas deadly military confrontations between Azerbaijan and Armeniathe trilateral statement of 9 November 2020 has not been fully implemented and the ceasefire continues to erupt periodicallybe repeatedly violated;
Amendment 51 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas the high-level meetings were held in Brussels between President Aliyev and Prime Minister Pashinyan, mediated by President Charles Michel, resulted in encouraging developments;
Amendment 59 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas a sustainable normalisation of relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan requires that all violence cease and that all the root causes of conflict be addressed in particular guaranteeing the rights and security of all the population of Nagorno-Karabakh;
Amendment 71 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas Azerbaijan is a reliable and trustworthy supplier of fossil fuels to the EU and whereas it is becoming increasingly important in this role;
Amendment 83 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H
Recital H
H. whereas Azerbaijan’s record in terms of respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms is still unsatisfactoryvery negative;
Amendment 87 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H a (new)
Recital H a (new)
Ha. whereas, in defiance of the First Article of the Azerbaijani Constitution and the law on freedom of assembly, the Azerbaijani authorities have imposed a ban on street protests by opposition and civil groups; whereas the citizens’ rights to free assembly are severely suppressed by the police and routinely end with the arrests of activists, in particular, those belonging to the political opposition;
Amendment 95 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H b (new)
Recital H b (new)
Hb. whereas Russia´s war of aggression against Ukraine has had implications for the South Caucasus and has further complicated the security situation in the region;
Amendment 107 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Considers that the Nagorno- Karabakh conflict which over the years has caused immense suffering and destruction has significantly hampered the development and stability of the whole South Caucasus region; is convinced that a sustainable peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan cannot be achieved through military means but requires a comprehensive political settlement in accordance with international law, including the principles enshrined in the UN Charter, the 1975 OSCE Helsinki Final Act and the OSCE Minsk Group’s 2009 Basic Principles; recalls that the root cause of the conflict, which is the situation and security of the Armenian population of Nagorno-Karabakh and the status of the formerly autonomous region, remains unresolved;
Amendment 118 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Strongly condemns the clashes that erupted on 12 Septemberlatest large- scale military aggression by Azerbaijan in September 2022 against multiple targets in the sovereign territory of Armenia which constituted a serious breach of the ceasefire and contradicted earlier commitments, including those made in the framework of EU-mediated talks; Condemns military incursions over non- delimited border since May 2021, urges the return of all forces to positions held before 12 May 20221 and their consequences for the peace processstresses that the latest September aggression has no link to the long-lasting conflict over Nagorno- Karabakh; denounces any attempts at undermining the peace process and urges all conflict parties to refrain from further use of force; reiterates that the territorial integrity of Armenia and Azerbaijan must be fully respected and underlines the EU’s readiness to be more actively involved in settling the region’s protracted conflicts;
Amendment 132 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Urges Armenia and Azerbaijan to fully implement the tripartite ceasefire agreement of 9 November 2020; calls on Armenia and Azerbaijan to avoid using inflammatory rhetoric and to implement measures to prepare their respective populations for peaceful coexisteninsists on the urgent need to refrain from any hostile rhetoric or actions that may be perceived as inciting hatred or outright violence or as supporting impunity, or that risk undermining the efforts to establish and promote an atmosphere conducive to trust and reconciliation, cooperation and sustainable peace;
Amendment 139 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Urges the governments of both countries to fully engage in the drafting of a peace treaty that should address the security of all the population in Nagorno- Karabakh, the return of internally displaced persons and refugees and the protection of cultural, religious and historical heritage; welcomes in this regard the meetings of the foreign affairs ministers of both countries;
Amendment 141 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 b (new)
Paragraph 3 b (new)
3b. Stresses that the legal status of Nagorno-Karabakh should be determined and accepted by both Armenia and Azerbaijan in order to secure the lasting settlement of the conflict; in this context underlines the need for such negotiations to take place under the mandate of the OSCE Minsk Group with active participation of its co-chairs and in close cooperation with the EU;
Amendment 144 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Recalls that the EU’s passive stance during and immediately after the 2020 war gave other regional actors, such as Russia and Turkey, the opportunity to gain influence; strongly supports, therefore, the initiative taken by the President of the European Council Charles Michel to convene and mediate bilateral meetings of the leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan in Brussels and encourages the work of the EU’s special representative for the South Caucasus and the crisis in Georgia; urges the governments of both countries to fully engage in the drafting of a peace treaty and welcomes in this regard the meeting of the foreign affairs ministers of both countries on 30 September in Geneva;
Amendment 152 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Takes note of the initial progress made on the process of border delimitation and encourages both sides to continue the work; welcomes the agreement to deploy a civilian EU mission to build trust and contribute to the border commissions; monitor the situation in the border regions of Armenia and Azerbaijan, to support confidence- building by monitoring adherence to the ceasefire and to support the work of the border commissions; welcomes Armenia’s willingness to facilitate the mission on their territory and calls on Azerbaijan to allow the presence of EU monitors on its side of the border as well; calls on the EU to consider prolonging and strengthening the mission as it contributes to increase security in the region while at the same time increases visibility of the EU in the region;
Amendment 169 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Welcomes the humanitarian assistance provided by the EU for the conflict-affected population in and around Nagorno-Karabakh and its assistance for humanitarian demining in the areas affected by the conflict; calls on the Commission to increase EU assistance to people in need, including in Nagorno- Karabakh, facilitate the implementation of more ambitious confidence-building measures and enhance people-to-people contacts between citizens on both sides of the border;
Amendment 177 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Continues to be concerned about the fate of Armenian prisoners, both military and civilian, detained during and after the conflict and still held by Azerbaijan and welcomes the release of some of them; calls for the immediate and unconditional release of all the remaining detaineesWelcomes the release of some of the Armenian prisoners taken by Azerbaijan and demands the immediate and unconditional release of all the remaining prisoners, both military and civilian, detained during and after the conflict, including those captured during the recent military confrontations, and for them to be treated in accordance with international humanitarian law;
Amendment 182 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7a. Condemns the footage that has appeared depicting the torture, mutilation and killing of an Armenian servicewoman and unarmed Armenian prisoners of war by Azerbaijani armed forces; calls for a full and impartial investigation of the videos to identify those responsible and hold them accountable for their actions;
Amendment 187 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Strongly insists thatUrges Azerbaijan and Armenia to refrain from destroying cultural, religious or historical heritage; calls for the and calls for accountability regarding such actions; calls for the preservation and restoration of damaged sites in accordance with UNESCO standards and indications; calls on Armenia and Azerbaijan to quickurgently allow and facilitate a UNESCO mission to visit both countries without preconditions;
Amendment 199 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Encourages increased bilateral contacts between the political authorities of Armenia and Azerbaijan; as well as between their civil societies and therefore calls on the Commission to support civil society organisations in Armenia and Azerbaijan that genuinely contribute to reconciliation;
Amendment 213 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Recognises the strategic role played by Azerbaijan as a provider of fossil fuels to the EU and welcomes its willingness to contribute even more to the EU’s objectives in terms of security and diversification of energy supply and climate neutrality; regrets that Azerbaijan’s ambition to be a strategic partner in the field of energy is not matched by its efforts on democratic reforms and respect for fundamental freedoms and human rights;
Amendment 222 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10a. Notes that the unblocking of regional transport and communication links will present a significant opportunity for socio-economic development in the entire South Caucasus region; stresses that this needs to be done in full respect of the sovereignty of both countries and based on the principle of reciprocity; underlines that, as part of the trilateral ceasefire agreement, both countries agrees to unblock connections between Nakhitchevan and Azerbaijan and to secure connections between Armenia and Nagorno-Karabakh;
Amendment 224 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. WelcomNotes the new mMemorandum of uUnderstanding on a Strategic Partnership in the Field of Energy between the EU and Azerbaijan signed by President Aliyev and Commission President von der Leyen in Baku on 18 July 2022, which lays the groundwork for future cooperation on green energy; regrets, however, that the Memorandum was signed without any conditionality based on the respect of fundamental freedoms, democracy and human rights and contributes to the EU dependence for energy supply, again, on a country that does not fully respect the European values and principles it has itself subscribed to, inter alia, as a member of the Council of Europe, the OSCE and the Eastern Partnership;
Amendment 239 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Emphasises Azerbaijan’s potential as a producer and provider of renewable energy, noting that further deepening of cooperation should also be subject to the respect of European values;
Amendment 244 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Takes note of the progress made on the negotiation of a new bilateral cooperation agreement and calls on the negotiating parties to envisage enhanced cooperation outside the energy sector in the new agreement, particularly with regard to rule of law, democracy and human rights;
Amendment 264 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Calls on EU institutions to ensure that any deepening of relations between the EU and Azerbaijan remainsmust be conditional on the country making substantial , effective and tangible progress on respect for the core values and principles of democracy, human rights and fundamental freedoms;
Amendment 269 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)
Paragraph 16 a (new)
16a. Is strongly concerned about the pressure put upon citizens exercising their constitutional rights in Azerbaijan; calls on the government of Azerbaijan to respect the rights of its citizens, including the right to peaceful assembly;
Amendment 277 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Deeply regrets the current state of press freedom in Azerbaijan; expresses its concern at the new law on media adopted in December 2021; calls for a swift review of that law in accordance with the recommendations included in the opinion of the Venice Commission of 17-18 June 2022; urges Azerbaijan to stop persecuting bloggers and journalist, journalists and media organisations;
Amendment 287 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Strongly insists thatUrges Azerbaijan to cease all persecution and repression of political opposition activists, students, human rights defenders and civil society organisations and representatives; reiterates its position that the release of all political prisoners is an indispensable condition for a new Partnership Agreement between the EU and Azerbaijan;
Amendment 295 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 a (new)
Paragraph 18 a (new)
18a. Notes with regret the fact that Azerbaijan has not fully complied with the decisions of the European Court of Human Rights;
Amendment 301 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Underlines the importance of gender equality and the representation of women at all levels of governmentsocial and political life;
Amendment 302 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 a (new)
Paragraph 19 a (new)
19a. Deeply regrets Azerbaijan’s failure to fully implement the Council of Europe’s Framework Convention on the Protection of the National Minorities, ratified by Azerbaijan, which violates Azerbaijan’s commitment to protect the rights of the ethnic minorities such as Lezgins, Talysh, Armenians, Kurds and others;
Amendment 307 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 a (new)
Paragraph 20 a (new)
20a. Is strongly concerned that the draft Law On Political Parties may further limit the freedom of association of Azerbaijanis by making it more difficult to register political parties; urges the Azerbaijani authorities to consult with international experts, including the OSCE/ODIHR and the Venice Commission of the Council of Europe, and take into account their feedback on the draft law;
Amendment 315 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 b (new)
Paragraph 20 b (new)
20b. Condemns the censorship on the access to information in Azerbaijan and calls on the authorities to improve access to the internet and communications coverage;
Amendment 329 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Expresses its concern at the persistent lack of independence, impartiality and effectiveness of the judiciary as well as transparency of its decisions;
Amendment 332 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Takes good note ofRegrets the limited progress made by Azerbaijan on the prevention ofand fight against corruption; calls on Azerbaijan to address the lack of an effective system of asset disclosure for members of parliament, judges and prosecutors;
Amendment 336 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 a (new)
Paragraph 22 a (new)
22a. Condemns the persecution of political opponents and calls for elections in accordance with international standards and in respect of Azerbaijan’s commitments as an OSCE participating state;
Amendment 340 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 b (new)
Paragraph 22 b (new)
22b. Emphasizes the need to make any further cooperation between the EU and Azerbaijan, conditional on the country´s respect for international standards and its international commitments, in particular related to democracy, human rights and the rule of law;
Amendment 342 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 c (new)
Paragraph 22 c (new)
22c. Underlines that good governance and respect for international law and standards are paramount to achieve long- lasting peace with Azerbaijan´s neighbours and in the wider region;
Amendment 347 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Strongly welcomes Azerbaijan’s repeatedNotes the lack of support, shown by Azerbaijan to the resolutions voted in the UN General Assembly on Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine and in support ofor the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine as well as; welcomes however the humanitarian aid provided to Ukraine during the ongoing warby Azerbaijan;
Amendment 351 #
2021/2231(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 a (new)
Paragraph 23 a (new)
23a. Recalls the important coordination role played by Azerbaijan in multilateral organizations in relation to the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic;
Amendment 17 #
2021/2230(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas since the collapse of the Soviet Union, the Nagorno-Karabakh warconflict and the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan haveAzerbaijan incursion into sovereign territory of Armenia and resulted in tens of thousands of casualties, immense destruction and the displacement of hundreds of thousands of people while the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict has not been resolved yet;
Amendment 23 #
2021/2230(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas periodical deadly military confrontations between Azerbaijan and Armenia continuethe trilateral statement of 9 November 2020 has not been fully implemented and the ceasefire continues to be repeatedly violated; whereas the 9 November 2020 ceasefire agreement, introduced after the 44-day war triggered by Azerbaijan in 2020, has been violated several times resulting in more casualties;
Amendment 49 #
2021/2230(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas a sustainable normalisation of relations between Armenia and Azerbaijan requires that all violence cease and that all the root causes of conflict be addressed, in particular guaranteeing the rights and security of the Armenian population of Nagorno-Karabakh;
Amendment 71 #
2021/2230(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas Russia’s militarywar of aggression against Ukraine has had implications for the South Caucasus and has further complicated the security situation in the region;
Amendment 79 #
2021/2230(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Considers that the Nagorno- Karabakh conflict, which over the years has caused immense suffering and destruction, has significantly hampered the socio-economic development and stability of the whole South Caucasus region; is convinced that a durable and sustainable peace between Armenia and Azerbaijan cannot be achieved through military means but requires a comprehensive political settlement in accordance with international law, including the principles enshrined in the UN Charter, the 1975 OSCE Helsinki Final Act and the OSCE Minsk Group’s 2009 Basic Principles; recalls that the root cause of the conflict, which is the situation and security of the Armenian population of Nagorno-Karabakh and the status of the formerly autonomous region, remains unresolved;
Amendment 84 #
2021/2230(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Strongly condemns the large-scale military attackggression by Azerbaijan in September 2022 against multiple targets in the sovereign territory of Armenia and its consequences for the peace processwhich constituted a serious breach of the ceasefire and contradicted earlier commitments, including those made in the framework of EU-mediated talks; condemns military incursions over non- delimited border since May 2021, urges the return of all forces to positions held before 12 May 2021 and stresses that the latest September aggression has no direct link to the long-lasting conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh; reiterates that the territorial integrity of Armenia and Azerbaijan must be fully respected and underlines the EU’s readiness to be more actively involved in settling the region’s protracted conflicts;
Amendment 96 #
2021/2230(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Urges Armenia and Azerbaijan to fully implement the tripartite ceasefire agreement of 9 November 2020 and to urgently implement measures to prepare their respective populations for peaceful coexistence; callinsists on the Azerbaijani authorities to avoid using inflammatory rhetoric which threatens to undermine the peace processurgent need to refrain from any hostile rhetoric or actions that may be perceived as inciting hatred or outright violence or as supporting impunity, or that risk undermining the efforts to establish and promote an atmosphere conducive to trust and reconciliation, cooperation and sustainable peace;
Amendment 107 #
2021/2230(INI)
3a. Urges the governments of both countries to fully engage in the drafting of a peace treaty that should address the security of the Armenian population in Nagorno-Karabakh, the return of internally displaced persons and refugees and the protection of cultural, religious and historical heritage; welcomes in this regard the meetings of the foreign affairs ministers of both countries;
Amendment 110 #
2021/2230(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 b (new)
Paragraph 3 b (new)
3b. Stresses that the legal status of Nagorno-Karabakh should be determined and accepted by both Armenia and Azerbaijan in order to secure the lasting settlement of the conflict; in this context underlines the need for such negotiations to take place under the mandate of the OSCE Minsk Group with active participation of its co-chairs and in close cooperation with the EU;
Amendment 116 #
2021/2230(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Recalls that the EU’s passive stance during and immediately after the 2020 war gave other regional actors, such as Russia and Turkey, the opportunity to gain influence; strongly supports, therefore, the initiative taken by the President of the European Council Charles Michel to convene and mediate bilateral meetings of the leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan in Brussels and encourages the work on the ground of the EU’s special representative for the South Caucasus and the crisis in Georgia; urges the governments of both countries to fully engage in the drafting of a peace treaty and welcomes in this regard the meetings of the foreign affairs ministers of both countries;
Amendment 123 #
2021/2230(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Takes note of the initial discussions on the process of border delimitation; welcomes the agreement to deploy a civilian EU mission to build trust and contribute to and encourages both sides to continue to do so even more intensively; welcomes the agreement reached on the quadrilateral meeting between President Aliyev, Prime Minister Pashinyan, President Macron and President Michel on 6 October 2022 within the framework of the European Political Community meeting in Prague to deploy a civilian EU mission to monitor the situation in the border regions of Armenia and Azerbaijan, to support confidence-building by monitoring adherence to the ceasefire and to support the work of the border commissions;
Amendment 132 #
2021/2230(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Welcomes Armenia’s willingness to facilitate the mission on their territory and calls on Azerbaijan to allow the presence of the EU mission on its side of the border as well; calls on the EU to play a more pro-active way and to consider prolonging and strengthening the mission as it contributes to increase security in the region while at the same time increases visibility of the EU in the region;
Amendment 149 #
2021/2230(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Continues to be concerned about the fate of Armenian prisoners, both military and civilian, detained during and after the conflict and still held by Azerbaijan and welcomes the release of some of them; demands the immediate and unconditional release of all the remaining detaineesWelcomes the release of some of the Armenian prisoners detained by Azerbaijan and demands the immediate and unconditional release of all the remaining prisoners, both military and civilian, detained during and after the conflict, including those captured during the recent military confrontations, and that they be treated in accordance with international humanitarian law;
Amendment 164 #
2021/2230(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Strongly insists thatUrges Azerbaijan and Armenia to refrain from destroying cultural, religious or historical heritage; calls for theaccountability regarding such actions; calls for preservation and restoration of damaged sites in accordance with UNESCO standards and indications; calls on Armenia and Azerbaijan to quickurgently allow and facilitate a UNESCO mission to visit both countries without preconditions; stresses that the destruction of cultural heritage increases tension and hatred between countries and contributes to destabilization of the region and thereby undermines the efforts of the bilateral talks held recently;
Amendment 173 #
2021/2230(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Encourages increased bilateral contacts between the political authorities of Armenia and Azerbaijan as well as between their civil societies and therefore calls on the Commission to support civil society organisations in Armenia and Azerbaijan that genuinely contribute to reconciliation; welcomes the agreement from 31st October 2022 in Sochi, between Armenia and Azerbaijan, to refrain from the threat or use of force, to discuss and resolve all problematic questions solely on the basis of mutual recognition of sovereignty, territorial integrity and the inviolability of borders by the UN Charter and the 1991 Alma-Ata Declaration and encourages Armenia and Azerbaijan to act accordingly;
Amendment 175 #
2021/2230(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10a. Notes that the unblocking of regional transport and communication links will present a significant opportunity for socio-economic development in the entire South Caucasus region; stresses that this needs to be done in full respect of the sovereignty of both countries and based on the principle of reciprocity; underlines that, as part of the trilateral ceasefire agreement, both countries agrees to unblock connections between Nakhitchevan and Azerbaijan and to secure connections between Armenia and Nagorno-Karabakh;
Amendment 182 #
2021/2230(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Supports the normalisation of relations between Armenia and Turkey andin the interest of reconciliation, regional stability and security as well as socio- economic development; welcomes the progress achieved so far; calls for the speedy implementation of agreements reached by the special representatives; calls on both sides to engage in the process in good faith and without preconditions;
Amendment 188 #
2021/2230(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Calls on Armenia to consider diversifying its security partnershipEncourages Armenia, in order to ensure better protection of its sovereignty and territorial integrity, to consider the possibility of diversifying its partnerships and potential security alliances, as its long-standing reliance on Russia and its allies in the Collective Security Treaty Organization has proved insufficient;
Amendment 195 #
2021/2230(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Welcomes the full entry into force of CEPA on 1 March 2021 and Armenia’s commitment to its implementation; welcomes the fact that the government recognises CEPA as a strategic blueprint for key reforms in Armenia; appreciates progress made and calls on the EU- Armenia Partnership Council to work closely together on implementation of ongoing and future reforms;
Amendment 203 #
2021/2230(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Welcomes the early parliamentary elections of 2021 which confirmed the strength of democracy in Armenia and the support of its people for the reform agenda; encourages the government to continue implementing reforms, despite the difficult international context and the challenges Armenia is facing in order to strengthen democratic institutions, the rule of law and the independence of judiciary; reiterates that the EU is the largest donor supporting Armenia’s reform process;
Amendment 205 #
2021/2230(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 a (new)
Paragraph 14 a (new)
14a. Encourages Armenia to continue its efforts to implement reforms and strengthen democracy, rule of law and good governance; appreciates progress already made; calls on Armenia to step up the implementation of justice and anti- corruption reforms and to undertake steps necessary to better protect human rights, especially women´s rights and rights of minorities, including LGBTIQ people; takes note of the reports of certain NGOs and representatives of opposition revealing the potential risk of regress at least in some areas; urges the government to make visible progress; calls on Armenia to continue cooperation with the EU on the implementation of reforms;
Amendment 213 #
2021/2230(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Underlines the important role of civil society in the shaping and implementation of key reforms; underlines the important role that non-governmental organisations and human rights activists play in the protection of democracy and human rights;
Amendment 242 #
2021/2230(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Notes that over the last 10 years, the volume of Armenia-EU bilateral trade has been increasing; in this context encourages the EU and Armenia to continue to enhance their economic and trade relations;
Amendment 254 #
2021/2230(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Reiterates its concerns regarding the ongoing operation of the Metsamor nuclear power plant; calls for the swift adoption of a road map or action plan for the closure and safe decommissioning of the plant; welcomes the visit of the Director General of the IAEA to Armenia in October 2022 and encourages the Armenian Nuclear Regulatory Authority to foster the mutual cooperation; urges Armenia to undertake any steps necessary to bring the Metsamor nuclear powerplant up to the international standards to ensure safe and secure operation at least for the necessary transitional period until adequate replacement alternative is fully operational and energy security is guaranteed; in cooperation with international partners calls for creation and adoption of a roadmap leading to safe decommissioning and closure of Metsamor power plant once the conditions are met;
Amendment 259 #
2021/2230(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 a (new)
Paragraph 21 a (new)
21a. Welcomes the Armenian steps already taken concerning the green transformation and the commitment to 40% reduction of emissions by 2030; encourages Armenia to continue and step up its ambitions in line with the Paris Agreement;
Amendment 260 #
2021/2230(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 b (new)
Paragraph 21 b (new)
21b. Welcomes the efforts of Armenia to increase energy security, diversify energy sources and increase the deployment of renewables, taking into account that natural gas imports from Russia still represent over 80% and bilateral cooperation between Armenia and Iran on energy exchange;
Amendment 3 #
2021/2208(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Stresses that a policy on ensuring food security in developing countries must mirror the founding principles of the common agricultural policy, in that its primary goal must be to provide affordable safe foodnutritious, safe, affordable and high quality food throughout the year for its citizens while affording a fair standard of living for its farmers;
Amendment 7 #
2021/2208(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Amendment 15 #
2021/2208(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Emphasises that agriculture and food security are the foundation blocks for broader economic development,e EU's role as an enabler in the transformation of food systems so they can be more resilient, sustainable, and fair within and outside the EU and its role to tackle all forms of malnutrition in humanitarian, development, and any fragile contexts and insists that agricultural development must support self-sufficient agricultural production systems and food sovereignty in developing countries;
Amendment 25 #
2021/2208(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. PUrges the EU to guarantee the coherence of European agricultural and trade policies in line with the commitments to Policy Coherence for Development (PCD); points out the need for clear guidelines on how to achieve policy coherence for development at EU level while also addressing potentially conflicting policy objectives; calls on the Commission to provide support for developing countries to protect their sensitive and infant industries, promote food security, support climate change mitigation for agriculture, and meet EU and international sustainability standards for the export of their agricultural products;
Amendment 38 #
2021/2208(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Recalls the importance of systematically assessing the effects of new policies on developing countries in order to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals; with a particular focus on SDG 2 "Zero Hunger";
Amendment 47 #
2021/2208(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Underlines that the farm to fork strategy is the EU’s most ambitious policy framework to promote a more sustainable and resilient EU food system and support a global transition to sustainable food systems; practices which preserves natural resources according to the Biodiversity Strategy’s objectives; nonetheless, regrets that the global dimension of the Strategy does not include concrete proposals to realize the Right to Adequate Food, implement the UN Declaration on the Rights of Peasants and Other People Working in Rural Areas or address measures to globally improve the working conditions of farmworkers and the income of small-scale farmers that are part of international food supply chains, or ensure the precautionary principle is included for all food safety requirements; calls on the EU to align its trade policy with the Farm to Fork and Biodiversity Strategies’ objectives, and the carbon neutrality objective of the EU Green Deal;
Amendment 50 #
2021/2208(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Underlines the essential role of women and girls in food systems; recalls that while the majority of smallholder farmers in developing countries are women, they are severely disadvantaged in their access to food and their burden of work; emphasizes that EU policies concerning fair, sustainable, and resilient food systems have to explicitly address gender inequality, especially women and girls' access to nutritious food, land, credit, knowledge, dignified work, natural resources and markets, and to ensure their rights and participation in decision making;
Amendment 60 #
2021/2208(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Stresses the necessity to reinforce research and share innovations between the EU and developing countries to increase food system resilience, especially in the context of climate change and to boost responsible and ethical innovations to promote sustainable agricultural practices; highlights that poor infrastructure and sanitation in developing countries are also closely linked to food instability, and must be targeted in the effort to improve food security; emphasizes on the importance of implementing the circular economy in agricultural production systems to increase their sustainability and resource- efficiency, and to decrease food losses and waste to the best extent possible;
Amendment 71 #
2021/2208(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Encourages increased consistency between EU development and trade policies to support the global transition to sustainable agrifood systems; stresses that EU free trade agreements (FTAs) should not disrupt local agriculture, damage small producers or exacerbate dependency on food imports; recalls the principle of policy coherence for development to ensure European exports do not hinder the development of local and emerging production; calls for support for food sovereignty and local and regional markets as an alternative to current trade-oriented agricultural policies; urges support for local production and consumption which can ensure local employment creation, assure fair prices, guarantee the protection of workers’ health and safety, lessen countries' dependency on imports and their vulnerability to international price fluctuations;
Amendment 75 #
2021/2208(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7a. Stresses that all actors of the agri- food sector need to exercise due diligence over their supply chain, namely to set up responsible and effective practices regarding the environment, human rights and good governance (e.g. minimum age requirements and occupational safety); welcomes the announcement of legislative initiatives in 2021-2022 to enhance cooperation of primary producers to support their position in the food chain; insists that the legislation should not only cover EU based producers but also protect producers and farmers from developing countries who work with European companies;
Amendment 88 #
2021/2208(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8a. Denounces the EU’s double standards on pesticides, which allow the export from the EU of hazardous substances which are themselves banned in the EU; highlights that the use of some pesticides in intensive agriculture in developing countries impact the health of workers in addition to causing environmental damage; calls for education and training in sustainable plant protection, agroecological and organic practices;
Amendment 22 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 50 a (new)
Citation 50 a (new)
— having regard to the Helsinki Final Act of 1975 and the Charter of Paris for a New Europe of 1990,
Amendment 28 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas the EaP is part of the EU’s comprehensive approach to securitneighbourhood policy, specifically designed to bolster relationships with the six EaP countries: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine, to help promote peace and stabil, stability, resilience, shared prosperity, sustainable development and reforms and human security oin the EU’s eastern flankneighbours, in a spirit of shared ownership and responsibility;
Amendment 36 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A a (new)
Recital A a (new)
A a. whereas the EaP has been facing serious violations of international law, security threats and conflicts in the recent years;
Amendment 37 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A b (new)
Recital A b (new)
A b. whereas the destabilisation of the EaP region poses a significant threat to the EU peace, stability and security;
Amendment 38 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas between 2021-2027, the EU aims also to invest in a range of security stabilisation initiativesthe EU and EaP partners jointly decided to deepen their cooperation in the area of security such as enhancing the ability of EaP countries to meet hybrid and cyber threats;
Amendment 47 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas the essential aims of the EaP are beneficial to the international community, including Russia, in that they help to forge a more stable region through measures that enhance good governance, the rule of law and good neighbourliness by promoting shared prosperity and prospects for the peoples of all EaP countries;
Amendment 54 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas the EaP Summit on 15 December 2021 resulted in increased efforts to bolsterenhance resilience, security dialogue and cooperation in the areas of the CSDP;
Amendment 59 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas President Putin’s Russia has engaged in continuous hybrid warfare against some EaP countries, backed by the ever- present threat of force across the region, to keep states politically off- balance and tied to Moscow’s self-declared sphere of influence, effectively removing the right of; whereas EaP countries are sovereign to choose their own foreign policy choices and alliances;
Amendment 65 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas in September 2021, Russia’Russia regularly conducts joint ZAPAD military exercise with Belarus and several other countries in the Russia-led Collective Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO) demonstrated that Russia’s gap ; whereas Russia and Belarus agreed on a joint military capabilities is rapidly closing while itsdoctrine, with the aim of deepening its political and military relations with CSTO countries is rising;
Amendment 71 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas the 2014 invasion and illegal annexation of Crimea demonstrated that Russia rejects EU or NATO aspirations in former Soviet territories and is determined to contend and contest any attempts to aid democratic development in a region which it considers its ‘near abroad’is a clear violation by Russia of the sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of Ukraine; whereas the EU has strongly condemned it and firmly sustained determination not to recognize it and has taken restrictive measures in this respect;
Amendment 83 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H
Recital H
H. whereas the latest Normandy Format and Minsk I & II Agreements have failed to end hostilities between Ukraine and Russian-backed separatists in Donetsk and LuhanskSummit in Paris on 9 December 2019 agreed several measures, notably concerning a renewed cease fire and disengagement of forces, that not only remain to be implemented, but are also obstructed and evidently contradicted by the latest actions of the Russian Federation; whereas the implementation of the Minsk I & II Agreements has suffered serious setbacks, in particular due to unilateral measures taken by the Russian Federation in contradiction with its commitments under the agreements; whereas the conflict in the Donbas region has killed more than 14 000 people and displaced around 1.5 million people;
Amendment 98 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. whereas Russia, against the backdrop of a crisis on the EU-Belar is threatening Ukraine with over 120 thousian border, has amassed over 100 000 troopsds of troops amassed on the border of Ukraine in an offensive formation while increasing its hybrid warfare tactics targeting the elected government in Kyiv, creating widespread concern about a potential second invasion of Ukraine;
Amendment 107 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I a (new)
Recital I a (new)
I a. whereas Russia has demanded a revision of the European security order, involving the commitment not to further enlarge NATO and the withdrawal of NATO troops from some EU Member States, thereby disrespecting core principles of European security as agreed among European countries, including Russia;
Amendment 111 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I b (new)
Recital I b (new)
I b. whereas the EU has expressed its preparedness to counter any military aggression by the Russian Federation against Ukraine with the strongest possible sanctions;
Amendment 112 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I c (new)
Recital I c (new)
I c. whereas talks took place in various bilateral and multilateral formats including the NATO-Russia Council and the OSCE; whereas there can be no discussion on European security without European countries; whereas the OSCE is the only European organisation that brings together all European countries including Russia, Central Asia, and the transatlantic partners; whereas the OSCE therefore remains the most suitable framework for discussing how to strengthen the common European security architecture in the interest of all;
Amendment 117 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J
Recital J
J. whereas following the electoral unrest, Belarus has largely abandoned its aim of fostering better relations with the EU, having reversed trends towards democratisation and taken to weaponising refugeesmass demonstrations against massive electoral fraud, the Belarusian regime has further increased domestic and violent repressions, in an attempt to uproot domestic aspirations towards liberalisation and destabilise; whereas Belarus has been using hybrid methods of warfare against EU Member States;
Amendment 130 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K
Recital K
K. whereas the outbreak of hostilities between Azerbaijan and Armenia fundamentally altered the political, strategic and operational status quo of the South Caucasus and resulted in; whereas Russia’s deployment ofed approximately 2 000 peacekeeping troops to the area in and around Nagorno- Karabakh as part of a ceasefire agrethe 9 November 2020 trilateral statement;
Amendment 135 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital L
Recital L
L. whereas the Russian Federation is continuing to further reinforce its illegal military presence in Georgia’s occupied territories and, to intensify its military build-up and military exercises, seriously destabilising the security situation on the groundand to increase ‘borderisation’ along the Administrative Boundary Line, seriously destabilising the security situation on the ground and endangering the livelihood of the population in the conflict-affected areas;
Amendment 140 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital M
Recital M
M. whereas the success of any CSDP mission depends on the robustness of its mandate and on the level of political will and cohesion, as well as the willingness of Member States to invest their expertise, assets, personnel and resources;
Amendment 146 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital N
Recital N
N. whereas the threats posed to the EU’s east not only concern friction with Russia but also and its eastern partners’ security also comprise climate change, cyber attacks, proliferation of WMDs, terrorism, organised crime, human trafficking, corruption, massinstrumentalisation of irregular migration and a host of other threats to the cohesion of societies both within and outside the EU;
Amendment 167 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital R
Recital R
R. whereas the CSDP will also require even closer coordination with NATO’s defence and deterrence posture and the Open Door Policy; whereas NATO pursues an Open Door Policy; whereas Ukraine and Georgia are NATO aspirant countries;
Amendment 171 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital R a (new)
Recital R a (new)
R a. whereas the EU Advisory Mission for Civilian Security Sector Reform in Ukraine (EUAM) is a civilian mission launched in 2014, at the Ukrainian government’s request for the EU to support the reform of law enforcement and rule of law institutions, thereby re- establishing trust with Ukrainian citizens after violent events surrounding the Ukraine revolution;
Amendment 187 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital V a (new)
Recital V a (new)
V a. whereas the Council is currently discussing options to increase the CSDP presence in Ukraine;
Amendment 188 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital W
Recital W
W. whereas in its 13 years of existence, the European Union Monitoring Mission in Georgia (EUMM) is a civilian mission launched in 2008, following the EU-mediated Six Point Agreement which ended the war between Georgia and Russia; whereas in its 13 years of existence the EUMM) has represented the strong political commitment of the EU in the region by providing stability and security to conflict- affected communities, normalisation and confidence-building amongst the parties in conflict;
Amendment 198 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital AA
Recital AA
AA. whereas flagrant violations of the six-point agreement and ceasefire by occupying forces are often met with limited responses or calls to action by Member States, or no response at all, which risks emthere have been illegal arrests across the Administrative Boundary Lines and illegal “bolrdening the occupying forces to carry out more such actionrisation” activities;
Amendment 212 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital AD
Recital AD
AD. whereas the EUMM has created a new confidence-building mechanism – a ‘hotline’ – which is the onlya channel of communication between the Government of Georgia and the de facto authorities in Abkhazia and South Ossetia, including Russia’s FSB border guards deployed in both territories; whereas this hotline was activated 3 000 times in 2020;
Amendment 214 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital AE
Recital AE
AE. whereas on 24 October 2019, for the first time in over 10 years, FSB border guards crossed the occupation line, detaining EUMM border guards on territory clearly within the borders of GeorgiaAdministrative Boundary line, detaining EUMM monitors and forcing the EUMM to negotiate their release;
Amendment 217 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital AF
Recital AF
AF. whereas the EUMM’s role in securing the release of detained border guardmonitors, as well as its efforts to assist sick people from the territories in getting treatment in Georgia, adds tremendous value to the important role the EUMM plays in both conflict management and confidence building;
Amendment 219 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital AG
Recital AG
AG. whereas the EU Border Assistance Mission to Moldova and Ukraine (EUBAM) is a civilian mission launched in 2005; whereas it has a non-executive mandate to enhance the border management capacities of border guards, customs authorities and law enforcement in Ukraine and Moldova with an annual budget of EUR 12 million and a staff of over 200 personnel, with a mandate up for renewal in November 2023;
Amendment 248 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph -1 (new)
Paragraph -1 (new)
-1. Welcomes the conclusions of the 2021 EaP Summit, promoting security as an important field of cooperation und underlining the EU’s readiness to enhance security dialogue with EaP partners; considers that such dialogue could further promote alignment and gradual convergence of the EU and the EaP countries foreign and security policy, in line with partners’ commitments with the EU.
Amendment 252 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading 1 a (new)
Subheading 1 a (new)
Underlines that sustainable peace and human security in the EaP region is essential for the EU; stresses that the peaceful resolution of ongoing or frozen conflicts in the region, based on international law, and good neighbourly relations are key to building and strengthening resilient and sustainable democracies in the EaP, with strong ties to the EU;
Amendment 253 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph -1 a (new)
Paragraph -1 a (new)
-1 a. Reminds that peace and security require strong and publicly accountable institutions, good governance and respect for the rule of law; strongly encourages EaP partners to further engage in the relevant reforms as only internal resilience based on strong and democratic institutions will allow to achieve the necessary resilience towards external threats;
Amendment 256 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph -1 b (new)
Paragraph -1 b (new)
-1 b. Condemns the threatening large- scale military build-up by the Russian Federation along the border with Ukraine, related actions in the non- government-controlled areas of Ukraine’s Donetsk and Luhansk regions, in illegally annexed Crimea and in Belarus; calls on the Russian Federation to immediately and fully withdraw its military forces, cease its threat against the territorial integrity of Ukraine, and contribute tod e- escalating tensions in the region by fully abiding to its commitments as an OSCE participating state;
Amendment 285 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Encourages the EU and Member States to ensure that any provision of equipment support via the EPF to EaP countries is in line with the needs of the EaP country and with full respect of international humanitarian law and international Human Rights law, of the Common Position on Arms Export and with the necessary transparency provision, and is carried out in collaboration with NATO strategic planning in order to avoid duplication;
Amendment 297 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Encourages the Member States each to deploy personnel to CSDP missions in EaP countries to ensure all Member States are represented in missions throughout the region and to encourage greater participation by non-EU countries in these missions, particularly former communist countries that have hosted successfully completed CSDP missions;; endorses Member State’s’ cooperation with EaP partners in area of security such as Lithuanian- Polish-Ukrainian Brigade.
Amendment 310 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Encourages Member States to expand support mechanisms for the participation of EaP countries in CSDP missthe further participation of EaP countries in CSDP missions, that would help to increase partners’ interoperability, develop common procedures and join actions;
Amendment 349 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Invites Member Statesthe EU to reinforce cooperation with NATO, also through the upcoming EU-NATO joint declaration, in supporting the defence and security capacity of our neighbours to the east;
Amendment 363 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Calls on the EEAS to coordinate threat assessment reports and political messagings with NATO Liaison Offices in EaP countries;
Amendment 368 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Encourages Member States that share both EU and NATO membership and that lead different NATO capacity building initiatives with EaP countries to ensure that training efforts and the transfer of best practices are coordinated with the EU MPCC and CPCC; encourages Member States to ensure that CSDP missions in EaP countries embrace close coordination with NATO’s defence and deterrence posture and Open Door Policyactions in the region;
Amendment 373 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Encourages Member States to use theRecalls that the participation of third- country PESCO agreement over military mobility as a template for EaP country participation, with an emphasies in individual PESCO projects can be in the strategic interest of the EU, when it comes to providing technical expertise on tailoring PESCO projects to the needs of CSDP missions and on developing highly encrypted secure civilian communication systemr additional capabilities, particularly in the case of strategic partners such as some EaP countries;
Amendment 378 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Encourages the VP/HR to devote particular attention to the security of the EaP area in the upcoming EU-US security and defence dialogue and the EU-US dialogue on Russia; recalls that the European security order cannot be discussed without the European countries; underlines that the stability of the EaP region is essential to the security of the whole European continent;
Amendment 385 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)
Paragraph 16 a (new)
16 a. Welcomes the valuable contribution of Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine in EU CSDP missions and operations;
Amendment 395 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Encourages Member Statesthe EU to extend EUAM cooperation to all anti- corruption structures and to include, either in the form of training and instruction or on the basis of sharing best practices and jointly setting future priorities, both Ukraine’s National Agency on Corruption Prevention (NAZK) and its High Anti- Corruption Court;
Amendment 400 #
2021/2199(INI)
19. Encourages Member Statesthe EU to expand their support to the EUAM’s digitalisation efforts via training and the provision of technologies that support data registry, human resource management and court filing procedures to assist in transparency, community trust building and countering corruption;
Amendment 402 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 a (new)
Paragraph 19 a (new)
Amendment 411 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Calls foron the Council to maintain the EUAM, the EUMM and the EUBAM to remain in action for as long as necessary and supports their renewable mandate structures to ensure easier adaptation to any alteration of facts on the ground;
Amendment 415 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. ImploresCalls on Member States to strengthen their public reactions to provocations against the EUMM, especially detentions of EUMM border guardmonitors and ceasefire violations;
Amendment 417 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Calls on the Council, the Commission and the EEAS to explore options to foster the cyber capability- building of our partners such as adjusting advisory mandates to include specialised training in combating hybrid warfare activities, cyber warfare and OSINT analysis, or to launch Civilian cyber missions; notes the important training work undertaken by the European Security and Defence College in the cyber defence field and welcomes the targeted training and education events organised by the ESDC for EaP partners;
Amendment 425 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Expresses deep concern about destabilising and terrorist actions by certain countries, notably Iran, in the South Caucasus; strongly condemns any acts of terrorism; welcomes the security cooperation between the EU, its Member States and EaP countries and fully supports the further deepening of counter- terrorism cooperation;
Amendment 435 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
25. Calls on the Commission and the EEAS to increase the visibility of CSDP missions in the EaP by strengthening its strategic communication, by proactive countering disinformation against them, by including them in their political messaging, publicly accessible documents and engagements with the international press;
Amendment 438 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25 a (new)
Paragraph 25 a (new)
25 a. Underlines the crucial need to boost cooperation between the EU and EaP partners in the fields of strategic communication, fighting disinformation and information manipulation, as well as any malign foreign interferences; welcomes the work of the EEAS East Stratcom Task Force in this respect;
Amendment 441 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25 b (new)
Paragraph 25 b (new)
25 b. Stresses the need for the EU to boost its institutional capacities for conflict prevention, mediation, dialogue and de-escalation in the EaP region; underlines that the EU could play a stronger role in setting confidence- building measures and could further take part in reconciliation efforts;
Amendment 443 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25 c (new)
Paragraph 25 c (new)
25 c. Underlines the importance for the EU to promote the role of women and young people in peace building in the EaP region and to advance the Women, Peace and Security and the Youth, Peace and Security Agendas in the EaP region;
Amendment 444 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25 d (new)
Paragraph 25 d (new)
25 d. Welcomes the will expressed at the latest EaP summit in December 2021 to explore enhanced sectoral cooperation in the field of energy security with interested EaP associated partners; points to climate-security as an area of possible further cooperation between the EU and the EaP;
Amendment 446 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25 e (new)
Paragraph 25 e (new)
25 e. Asks the EEAS to also work on strengthening the training and capacity- building of our EaP partners in the field of arms control, disarmament and non- proliferation; praises the EU CBRN risk mitigation Centres of Excellence initiative in Tbilissi in this respect;
Amendment 447 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25 f (new)
Paragraph 25 f (new)
25 f. Calls on the Commission to increase the capacity-building of EaP partners in boosting the resilience of their critical entities, through common training activities and the sharing of best practices;
Amendment 448 #
2021/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25 g (new)
Paragraph 25 g (new)
Amendment 10 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 10 a (new)
Citation 10 a (new)
— having regard to its resolution of 7 October 2021 on the State of EU cyber defence capabilities,
Amendment 29 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 29 a (new)
Citation 29 a (new)
— - having regard to the SOTEU 2020 and 2021 addresses and letters of intent,
Amendment 31 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 29 b (new)
Citation 29 b (new)
— having regard to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, paying special attention to SDG 16 that aims to promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development,
Amendment 52 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Stresses that the EU is facing new threats, including hybrid threats, and has entered an age of “unpeace” characterized by hostile competition through hybrid warfare means such as cyber attacks, disinformation and foreign interferences, which have blurred the lines between war and peace, as well as increased militarisation around the world and a still unstable neighbourhood, both in the East and in the South;
Amendment 59 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Stresses that the EU is facing newevolving threats, including hybrid threats, increased militarisation and revisionism around the world and a still unstable neighbourhood, both in the East and in the South;
Amendment 82 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Amendment 88 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Welcomes the launch of the work on the Strategic Compass, which should be completed in March 2022; stresses that it is a beginning, not an end, and that it constitutes a major step towards a European Defence Union; stresses that a robust EU defence policy is needed for the EU to have the means to effectively work towards peace, human security, sustainable development and democracy;
Amendment 95 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Welcomes the launch of the work on the Strategic Compass, which should be completed in March 2022; stresses that it is a beginning, not an end, and that it constitutes a major step towards a closer cooperation on security and defence and to a European Defence Union;
Amendment 125 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Stresses that the Strategic Compass must make it possible to strengthen the Union’s capacity to act as an increasingly credible strategic partner and a global actor for peace; stresses that this exercise must be regularly updated, must set out an ambitious and operational course – with a timetable for the implementation of decisions and monitoring mechanisms – and must enable the Union to have a coherent defence policy, a common strategic culture, a capacity to anticipate threats and provide a rapid and coordinated reaction and a capacity for autonomous resilience, to be able to mobilise resources on the basis of solidarity when a Member State is threatened and requests them, and ultimately to play a part inensure the protection of European citizens, interests and values;
Amendment 131 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Underlines the crucial need to boost intelligence support for EU security and defence policy; underlines that the work of EU IntCen and EUMS INT is dependent on the willingness of Member States to share information: calls to increase its financial and technical resources; agrees with the analysis made by EC President SOTEU 2021 address that the EU needs to improve intelligence cooperation; welcomes the proposal to consider setting up an EU Joint Situational Awareness Centre, a crucial tool to improve strategic foresight and the EU strategic autonomy; calls for exploring the possibilities to set up an EU intelligence agency;
Amendment 139 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Recalls that the Union is currently deploying 11 civilian missions and six military missions and operations; recalls that only three of the military missions are executive missions; notes that these missions and operations are suffering the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has limited their effectiveness; suggests that the budget, planning and equipment of EU CSDP missions and operations be assessed in the light of the lessons learnt from COVID-19;
Amendment 146 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Stresses the need for strategic reform in the Sahel considering the cyclical nature of the conflicts in the region, emphasises on a more political engagement with the governments supported by the EU to ensure more transparency, combat corruption, cultivate inclusivity and engage with citizens in an effort to curb the explosion of armed and ethnic conflicts;
Amendment 162 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Deplores the actions of the coup leaders in Mali; is deeply concerned at the lack of essential state services in Mali and in the Sahel in general; expresses its deep concern at the deteriorating security in the region; notes the announcement of the reorganisation of French military action in the Sahel, in conjunction with ouwhich will have implications for international, European and African partners; welcomes the increasing involvement of European Member States’ armed forces in the Takuba Task Force; welcomes the adaptation of the new extended mandate of the European Union Training Mission in Mali (EUTM Mali) to the regionalisation process; calls on the Member States to make a significant contribution to EUTM Mali’s advisory activities;
Amendment 170 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Stresses that EUNAVFOR ATALANTA, EUCAP and EUTM Somalia form a coherent whole supporting the Union’s Strategic Framework for the Horn of Africa; welcomes the crucial role played by Operation ATALANTA in the fight against piracy and trafficking in the Horn of Africa, thereby successfully protecting World Programme Vessels; underlines the importance of the security- development-humanitarian nexus; calls on Member States to provide EUNAVFOR with the necessary assets to perform its crucial mandate;
Amendment 180 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Recalls the strategic importance for European interests ofof the Mozambique Channel; points to the need to consider enlarging the area of operation of EUNAVFOR Atalanta to the Mozambique Channel; welcomes the commitment of the Member States and the VP/HR to respond to the growing terrorist threat in the area; notwelcomes the forthcoming establishment of an EUTM;
Amendment 189 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10a. Underlines the importance for the Union of sustainable stability, human security and prosperity in its neighbourhood;
Amendment 194 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Welcomes the renewal of the Althea mission in 2020 and the refocusing of its mandate in support of the Bosnia- Herzegovina authorities in an effort to maintain a safe and secure environment; and the stability of the country; Recognises the important cooperation between the EU and NATO in the Western Balkans, notably through EUFOR Althea mission, which operation HQ is located at SHAPE thanks to the Berlin Plus Arrangement;
Amendment 199 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Welcomes the renewal of the Althea missionoperation Althea in 2020 and the refocusing of its mandate in support of the Bosnia- and Herzegovina authorities in an effort to maintain a safe and secure environment;
Amendment 204 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Notes with satisfaction the results of the European Union Monitoring Mission in Georgia (EUMM Georgia); approves its extension for a period of two years; stresses the need for further reflection on CSDP commitments in the area; is concerned about the deteriorating security situation in the region; denounces the increased ‘borderisation’ activities along the Administrative Boundary Line;
Amendment 207 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
12a. Notes that the Russian Federation military forces are still occupying large parts of Ukraine and Georgia in violation of international law; express concerns about Russia’s role in destabilising peace and security in the Eastern Partnership region; denounces the presence of Russian private military and security companies in African countries;
Amendment 220 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Welcomes the launch of the CSDP operation in the Mediterranean, EUNAVFOR MED IRINI; stresses its key role whose core task ins the implementation of the arms embargo on Libya in accordance with UNSCR 2526 (2020); deplores the fact that, in 2020, it encountered many refusals to allow inspections; calls for a transparent communication from the European External Action Service (EEAS) on this issue; laments the fact that NATO, which is active in the area through Operation Sea Guardian, is unwilling to cooperateunderlines the need for effective collaboration, increased cohesion and sharing of information and resources with NATO's Operation Sea Guardian;
Amendment 230 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 a (new)
Paragraph 14 a (new)
14a. Notes the EEAS’s needs assessment report regarding the Professional Military Education (PME) sector in Ukraine and welcomes the ongoing work in scoping a possible EU engagement in Ukraine on its basis, and complementing Ukraine’s and international partners’ efforts in reforming professional military education in Ukraine;
Amendment 252 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Is deeply concerned about the low force generation for operations and missions, and urges the Member States to address this matter as soon as possible and give CSDP missions and operations the necessary personnel and capabilities to fulfil their mandates; considers that third- country participation in CSDP operations and missions must always be in line with European interests and values; calls on the EU to provide staff in missions and operations with appropriate equipment and training to become more alert and more resilient under less permissive conditions;
Amendment 271 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 a (new)
Paragraph 19 a (new)
19a. Stresses the need for all the missions and in particular the military missions to have sunset provisions working with locals to build capacity within reasonable time with a view to allow a sustainable exit;
Amendment 273 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 b (new)
Paragraph 19 b (new)
19b. Calls for a more systematic implementation of UNSCR 1325 on Women, Peace and Security(WPS) and of UNSCR 2250 on Youth, Peace and Security (YPS), and for a strengthening of the EU’s WPS and YPS agenda; calls for meaningful gender mainstreaming in the formulation of the EU CSDP, notably via a better gender balance in the personnel and leadership of CSDP missions and operations and specific training of the personnel deployed;
Amendment 274 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 c (new)
Paragraph 19 c (new)
Amendment 287 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 a (new)
Paragraph 20 a (new)
20a. Is of the view that the valuable contribution of the armed forces during the COVID-19 pandemic has shown the importance of the use of Member States’ military assets and capabilities in support of the Union Civil Protection Mechanism; encourages the setting up of an EU emergency military unit, aimed at facilitating the cross-border use of military logistical capabilities to face emergencies, in order to allow for greater coordination, synergy and solidarity, in assistance to civil support operations;
Amendment 305 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Supports the ambitionHR/VP proposal of creating a ‘rapid entry force’; recalls the existence of battlegroups and the need to make them credible by conducting regular field exercises; deplores the Member States’ lack of commitment to the battlegroups; criticises the fact that only one, led by Italy, is operational in 2021; laments thereof the weakness of the planning for 2022 and 2023;
Amendment 321 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Welcomes the establishment of the European Peace Facility (EPF) in 2020 and calls for it to be made operational swiftly with full respect for the Common Position, for Human rights and humanitarian law, and with effective transparency provisions; stresses that the requisite equipment and training must be delivered in the relevant theatres of operation; undertakes to ensure coherence and complementarity between CSDP missions and operations, the Union’s financial instruments (NDICI) and the EPF;
Amendment 324 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Welcomes the establishment of the European Peace Facility (EPF) in 2020 and calls for it to be made operational swiftly; stresses that the requisite equipment and training must be delivered in the relevant theatres of operation, having in mind 360 degrees approach of EPF; undertakes to ensure coherence and complementarity between CSDP missions and operations, the Union’s financial instruments (NDICI) and the EPF;
Amendment 330 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 a (new)
Paragraph 22 a (new)
22a. Welcomes the Climate Change and Defence Roadmap which sets concrete actions addressing the growingly relevant climate/security nexus;
Amendment 364 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
26. Condemns the malicious acts committed against Member States; insists that the Union and the Member States react firmly and in coordination against any new malicious, illegal or destabilising activity; calls on the Union to work towards the creation of a legal instrument to respond to hybrid threats and to develop a comprehensive cyber capacity; calls for a revision of the cyber-defence policy framework in order to increase the prevention and deterrence capacity of the Union and its Member States; welcomes therefore the 2021 SOTEU announcement to set up a European cyber defence policy; welcomes the increased cooperation among Member States in the domain of cyber defence in the framework of the Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO), including Cyber Rapid Response Teams; recalls that the successful implementation of EU missions and operations is increasingly dependent on uninterrupted access to a secure cyberspace, and thus requires robust and resilient cyber operational capabilities, as well as adequate responses to attacks against military installations, missions and operations; calls for increased EU coordination as regards establishing collective attribution for malicious cyber incidents;
Amendment 375 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26 a (new)
Paragraph 26 a (new)
Amendment 381 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26 b (new)
Paragraph 26 b (new)
26b. considers large-scale disinformation campaigns as a form of hybrid warfare; calls to have a wide-range EU disinformation toolbox, which would not only focus on enhancing Member States’ and stakeholders’ resilience to disinformation, put mandatary requirements onto social platforms and allow citizens’ to make informed decisions, but would also improve the EU’s ability to source and attribute massive disinformation and to sanction State and non-State actors launching it ;
Amendment 387 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27 a (new)
Paragraph 27 a (new)
27a. Calls for the creation of a dedicated strategic autonomy Fund, to help build a stronger and more competitive European defence and security ecosystem and to streamline and further incentivize investments in critical sectors, such as cyber;
Amendment 396 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28
Paragraph 28
28. Calls on the Union to develop a space defence strategy, which is essential for its strategic autonomy in space, in the areas of communication, navigation and intelligence; encourages the Union to improve its situational awareness and geo- intelligence support; stresses the importance of the Union having its own launchers; insists that the Union should lead the way in strengthening the increasingly contested area of international space law and to strive to prevent the weaponisation of space;
Amendment 404 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28 a (new)
Paragraph 28 a (new)
28a. Notes the important work conducted by EU SatCen and underlines that the Union must have adequate resources in the fields of space imagery and intelligence-gathering, stresses that EU SatCen should benefit from structural Union funding to be able to maintain its contributions to the Union’s actions, notably in order to provide high- resolution satellite imaging in support of CSDP missions and operations;
Amendment 419 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30
Paragraph 30
30. Calls for existing Union instruments to be made operational so that they can contribute more effectively to preventing and countering hybrid threats and to protecting critical infrastructure and the functioning of our democratic institutions, as well as securing our supply chains;
Amendment 430 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32
Paragraph 32
32. Notes that the pandemic has exposed our vulnerabilities and; Notes that the EU did not have the full capacities and capabilities to ensure the safe and coordinated evacuation of its citizens from Afghanistan; calls, therefore, for a reduction in Europe’s strategic dependencies;
Amendment 448 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34
Paragraph 34
34. LUnderlines that adequate levels of financial resources, personnel and assets are essential in order to ensure that the Union has the strength and the ability to promote peace and security within its borders and in the World; laments the reduction in the amount of the EDF under the MFF, which makes coherence between Union defence initiatives even more necessary; stresses, in this regard, the role of the European Defence Agency (EDA);
Amendment 469 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 36
Paragraph 36
36. Recalls that third-country participation in individual PESCO projects must be decided on a case-by-case basis, when in the strategic interest of the Union, particularly when it comes to the provision of technical expertise or additional capabilities; welcomes the initial stages of military mobility and calls for subsequent stages to be implemented swiftly; approvwelcomes the participation of the United States, Norway and Canada in the military mobility project;
Amendment 485 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 37
Paragraph 37
37. Stresses that the EDF must promote the build-up of European industrial sectors and European champions, and foster the competitiveness of SMEs, with multiannual programming, and take advantage of civilian-defence synergies;
Amendment 492 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 38 – introductory part
Paragraph 38 – introductory part
38. Welcomes the fact that the PESCO strategic review has led to a reduction and more focus in the number of projects and an increase in its political monitoring; laments the fact that Parliament has been excluded from the monitoring of its implementation; considers that the Strategic Compass should aim to:
Amendment 509 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 38 – indent 4
Paragraph 38 – indent 4
- focus on a small number of projects which are consistent with CSDP objectives, are operational and provide European added value, while respecting the inclusiveness nature of PESCO;
Amendment 515 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 39
Paragraph 39
39. Stresses that the digital sector is an area of opportunity but also of significant threat of malicious action against our security and democracies (by state and non-state actors, and erasing the lines laid down in the law of armed conflict), and that it transcends borders; calls for particular attention to be paid to the impact of emerging technologies so as to ensure that they are applied and used throughout the Union, facilitate research and innovation and enhance the Union’s resilience, keeping in mind the need to control their use; calls for the EU to take the lead in global efforts to set up a comprehensive regulatory framework for the development and use of AI- enabled weapons; calls on the VP/HR, the Member States and the European Council to adopt a joint position on autonomous weapons systems that ensures meaningful human control over the critical functions of weapons systems; insists on the start of international negotiations on a legally binding instrument that would prohibit fully autonomous weapons;
Amendment 536 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading 10
Subheading 10
Building stronger defence partnerships and supporting the autonomyresilience of partner countries
Amendment 537 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading 11
Subheading 11
Defending multilateralism on arms control, disarmament and non-proliferation
Amendment 539 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 40
Paragraph 40
40. Calls for support to be given to strengthening and preserving the conventional arms control architecture in Europe, in a context of gradual erosion marked by Russia’s withdrawal from the Treaty on Open Skies; calls for disarmament regimes and forums to be actively supported and strengthened in every aspect: universalisation, support for implementation, political and institutional support, and financial support; calls on the Union to pay particular attention to chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) risk, with particular emphasis on the prohibition regime and conventional obligations under the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) and the fight against impunity; welcomes the extension of the New START Treaty and laments the end of the Intermediate Nuclear Forces Treaty (INF); reaffirms its full support for the EU and its Member States’ commitment to the NPT as the cornerstone of the nuclear non- proliferation and disarmament regime; reiterates its calls for the adoption of concrete and effective measures during the 10thNPT Review Conference; insists on the need to ensure that the EU plays a strong and constructive role in developing and reinforcing the global rules-based non-proliferation efforts and arms control and disarmament architecture;
Amendment 551 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading 12
Subheading 12
Strengthening dialogue, partnerships and cooperation on security and defence
Amendment 559 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 41
Paragraph 41
41. Stresses that the Union should adopt a strategic approach to its partnerships based, in particular, on shared values, the defence of its interests and strategic autonomy;
Amendment 561 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 41
Paragraph 41
41. Stresses that the Union should adopt a strategic approach to its partnerships based, in particular, on the defence of its interests and, strategic autonomy and values;
Amendment 579 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 42 a (new)
Paragraph 42 a (new)
42a. Regrets the little consultation and information of EU Allies on the Afghanistan withdrawal and on the AUKUS trilateral security pact; underlines these remind the EU once more of the urgent need to deliver on EU defence in order to ensure the EU ability to be a global player for peace;
Amendment 594 #
2021/2183(INI)
43. Calls for a stronger NATO supported by a stronger European Union, and wishes to see very tangible development in the EU-NATO partnership; calls, in this context, for NATO’s new strategic concept to be coherent with the EU’s Strategic Compass; expects the new EU-NATO Joint Declaration by the end of 2021;
Amendment 597 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 43
Paragraph 43
43. Calls for a stronger NATO supported by a stronger European Union, and wishes to see very tangible development in the EU-NATO partnership; calls, in this context, for coherence between NATO’s new strategic concept to be coherent withand the EU’s Strategic Compass;
Amendment 607 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 44
Paragraph 44
44. Calls for even deeper cooperation with international organisations and in particular with the UN, including between CSDP missions and peacekeeping operations, especially on joint theatres; stresses the importance of cooperation with the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) in the area of security;
Amendment 613 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 45
Paragraph 45
45. Calls for closer relations with non- traditional partners in the Indo-Pacific region (India, Japan, Australia), and in specific policy sectors (cybersecurity, hybrid, maritime, arms control, etc.), and with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and with Latin American countries;
Amendment 619 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 45 a (new)
Paragraph 45 a (new)
45a. Notes with serious concern the recent display of force and escalating tensions in the regional hotspots such as South and East China Sea and Taiwan Strait; underlines that the peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific regions is of great importance for the EU and its Member States; expresses grave concern over China’s continued military manoeuvers in the Taiwan Strait, including those aimed at Taiwan or taking place in Taiwan’s Air Defence Identification Zone; calls on the PRC to stop such military sabre-rattling that pose serious threats to the peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and the Indo- Pacific region; reiterates that the relationship between China and Taiwan should be developed constructively through dialogues, without coercion or destabilizing tactics by either side; stresses the opposition to any unilateral action that may undermine the status quo of the Taiwan Strait and that any change to cross-strait relations must not be made against the will of Taiwan’s citizens;
Amendment 625 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 45 b (new)
Paragraph 45 b (new)
45b. Recalls that China, together with other non-democratic countries, also remains a major threat to democracies in Europe through disinformation campaigns, in which they exploit the openness and freedom of expression to propose an authoritarian alternative to the democratic system; note that cooperation in the fight against disinformation is therefore in the interest of both the EU and Taiwan;
Amendment 627 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 45 c (new)
Paragraph 45 c (new)
45c. Encourages the EU and the Member States to deepen cooperation with Taiwan in confronting disinformation from malign third countries, including the sharing of best practices, joint approaches to fostering media freedom and journalism, deepening cooperation on cybersecurity and cyber-threats, raising citizens’ awareness and improving overall digital literacy among the population in order to strengthen the resilience of our democratic systems; support intensified cooperation between relevant European and Taiwanese government agencies, NGOs and think tanks in this field;
Amendment 635 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 46
Paragraph 46
46. Laments the absence of a security and defence cooperation partnership between the UK and the EU on account of the British Government’s lack of interest, despite the assurances given in the political declaration; calls for a stronger partnership to be built with relevant African organisations, such as the African Union, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and G5 SahelSouthern African Development Committee (SADC) and G5 Sahel also promoting a strengthened Parliamentary role in Africa through the Pan-African Parliament;
Amendment 645 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 47
Paragraph 47
47. Calls for cooperation on training and capacity building with third countries weakened by conflicts or regional threats or targeted by malicious foreign interferences, especially in the Western Balkans and Eastern Partnership regions;
Amendment 652 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 47 a (new)
Paragraph 47 a (new)
47a. urges the EU to enhance its institutional capacities for conflict prevention and mediation;
Amendment 653 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 47 b (new)
Paragraph 47 b (new)
47b. Recognises the role of increased flow of illicit finances in tax havens and the risk they pose on increased militarisation and financing terrorist activities, worsening global instability; calls for more actions in curbing money laundering, and capacitating partners, especially in Africa and Latin America, with mechanisms to curb murky financial transactions including engagement of authorities in tax havens;
Amendment 661 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 48
Paragraph 48
48. Calls on citizens to express their expectations as regards the CSDP architecture, peace, defence, security agenda and the role of the EU in the World in the course of the Conference on the Future of Europe; calls for the establishment of a fully-fledged Security and Defence Committee in the European Parliament and for the formalisation of an EU Council of Defence Ministers;
Amendment 668 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 49
Paragraph 49
49. Points out that Parliament should be consulted in advance and duly informed on the planning, modification and possibility of ending CSDP missions; is determined to play its full role in scrutinising the Global Europe instrument, in particular its peace and security dimension, and in the implementation of the EDF;
Amendment 675 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 51 a (new)
Paragraph 51 a (new)
51a. Stresses the need to develop ever- closer cooperation on CSDP matters with national parliaments in order to reinforce accountability and scrutiny and defence diplomacy;
Amendment 676 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 51 b (new)
Paragraph 51 b (new)
51b. Underlines the importance of improving the tools available to civil society in order to ensure its meaningful involvement in the formulation and oversight of defence policy;
Amendment 677 #
2021/2183(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 51 c (new)
Paragraph 51 c (new)
51c. Commends the vision and proposals the HR/VP put forward for EU defence and demands EU Member States to show the necessary political will to deliver on our joint level of ambition;
Amendment 468 #
2021/2182(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32 a (new)
Paragraph 32 a (new)
32 a. Notes with serious concern the recent display of force and escalating tensions in the regional hotspots such as South and East China Sea and Taiwan Strait; underlines that the peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific regions is of great importance for the EU and its Member States; expresses grave concern over China’s continued military manoeuvers in the Taiwan Strait, including those aimed at Taiwan or taking place in Taiwan’s Air Defence Identification Zone; calls on the PRC to stop such military sabre-rattling that pose serious threats to the peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and the Indo- Pacific region; reiterates that the relationship between China and Taiwan should be developed constructively through dialogues, without coercion or destabilizing tactics by either side; stresses the opposition to any unilateral action that may undermine the status quo of the Taiwan Strait and that any change to cross-strait relations must not be made against the will of Taiwan’s citizens;
Amendment 4 #
2021/2178(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1 a. Recalls that the EU-African trade relations and initiatives, like the one one cocoa, must rely on transparent and reliable monitoring and accountability, civil society particpation securing a bottom-up approach;
Amendment 6 #
2021/2178(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 b (new)
Paragraph 1 b (new)
1 b. Calls for the EU to take into account the conclusions of the Task Force for Rural Africa on the need for investment in African food chains, with the focus on value-added commodities; and calls on the EU and the Member States to actively work together with African partners to create synergies between the EU-Africa strategy and Green Deal policies, in particular the external dimension of the farm to fork strategy;
Amendment 9 #
2021/2178(INI)
2. Points out that most African countries, in particular LDCs (least developed countries) and African signatories to EPAs (Economic Partnership Agreements), enjoy duty-free and quota- free access to EU markets; emphasises that Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) need to support the various regional trade communities in Africa and the further development of the AfCFTA and contribute to the building of resilient and sustainable regional value chains, boosting and diversifying intra-African trade, and calls for the consistent inclusion and implementation of chapters ensuring coherence with development needs and policies and the SDGs;
Amendment 23 #
2021/2178(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4 a. Underlines the importance of research and innovation in encouraging sustainable agricultural practices and productive dryland agro-ecosystems and food systems; calls, in this regard, for a stronger reliance on the contributions of African traditional knowledge in the just transition, especially regarding agricultural practices, fisheries and forest protection, thereby empowering the African people and local communities;
Amendment 37 #
2021/2178(INI)
5. Stresses that the EU-Africa relationship must move beyond the donor- recipient relationship; believes that the EU and Africa should cooperate as equals, empowering African nations to attain the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs); recalls that resetting the partnership would mean the African Union and the EU could begin to address difficult issues derailed by the COVID pandemic, such as governance and civic space;
Amendment 45 #
2021/2178(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6 a. Emphasises that the AfCFTA should make for integration that benefits all African populations, including the most marginalised; recalls that there are developmental differences between African countries which must be taken into account in order not to increase inequalities; takes the view that EU support to the AfCFTA should focus on the development of regulatory frameworks to prevent a ‘race to bottom’ of social and environmental norms;
Amendment 56 #
2021/2178(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7 a. Recalls that hunger and food insecurity are again increasing across the world and that they will continue to increase unless prompt action is taken, and that Africa is significantly off track to achieve the zero hunger target (SDG 2) in 2030; recalls that the end of malnutrition in all its forms and SDG 2 should be considered as priorities in the new partnership, with particular attention to people in the most vulnerable situations;
Amendment 57 #
2021/2178(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 b (new)
Paragraph 7 b (new)
7 b. Calls on the EU and its member states to make a commitment to support African countries to implement ambitious and just climate action; calls on the EU that financing under the new NDICI instrument must champion a human rights-based approach that makes local communities and indigenous peoples central to climate, environmental and development efforts, starting with civil society and community consultation;
Amendment 59 #
2021/2178(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Recalls that Africa is home to exceptional biodiversity; expresses its deep concern about the overexploitation of natural resources and itsthe impact onf reduced biodiversity, and in particular the increasing pace of deforestation in Africa. on resilience levels; is particularly concerned at the fact that the pace of deforestation is increasing in Africa; points out that the destruction of the African rainforests leads to an irreversible loss of biodiversity and of carbon sinks, as well as of the homes and ways of life of indigenous communities living in the forests; recalls that forests contribute significantly to reaching climate targets, protecting biodiversity and preventing desertification and extreme soil erosion;
Amendment 62 #
2021/2178(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8 a. Calls for the link between public health and biodiversity in line with the ‘one health’ approach to be taken into account; welcomes the announcement of the NaturAfrica initiative, which aims to protect wildlife and ecosystems, and the review of the action plan against wildlife trafficking; stresses that the NaturAfrica initiative should be developed in consultation with all stakeholders, with particular attention to the rights of local communities, indigenous peoples, and women; underlines that it should support African governments and local populations in tackling major drivers of biodiversity loss and environmental degradation in a holistic and systematic way, including by offering support for well managed protected area networks; urges the EU and Africa to recognise and protect indigenous people’s rights to customary ownership and control of their lands and natural resources as set out in the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People and International Labour Organization Convention 169, and to comply with the principle of free, prior and informed consent;
Amendment 65 #
2021/2178(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 b (new)
Paragraph 8 b (new)
8 b. Welcomes the fact that the new EU-Africa partnership advocates for the development of environmentally friendly agricultural practices; recalls the fact that agroecology’s capacity to reconcile the economic, environmental and social dimensions of sustainability has been recognised in landmark reports from the IPCC and IPBES, as well as the World Bank and FAO-led global agricultural assessment (IAASTD); stresses the importance of promoting agroecology, agroforestry, local production and sustainable food systems which focus on the development of short supply chains in both national policies and international forums, in order to ensure food and nutritional security for all as well as increasing the sustainable productivity of the agricultural sector and its resilience to climate change;
Amendment 67 #
2021/2178(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 c (new)
Paragraph 8 c (new)
8 c. Considers that conservation efforts centred on, for example, forests, wildlife and marine and coastal ecosystems need to be stepped up by making use of regulatory frameworks, sufficient resources and scientific data and accompanied by ecosystem restoration and management actions; calls on the EU and Africa to play a leading role in the conclusion of an ambitious global agreement at the 15th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity;
Amendment 69 #
2021/2178(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 d (new)
Paragraph 8 d (new)
8 d. Underlines that the use of pesticides in intensive agriculture in Africa can impact the health of workers who have very little access to training on plant protection and healthcare, in addition to causing environmental damage; calls for education and training in sustainable plant protection approaches and alternatives to pesticides and for the minimisation of exposure to hazardous substances; denounces the double standards applied by the EU regarding pesticides by allowing the export of hazardous substances that are banned in the EU to African countries and other third countries; asks, therefore, for the modification of the current EU rules in order to eliminate this legal incoherence, in line with the Rotterdam Convention of 1998 and the Green Deal;
Amendment 70 #
2021/2178(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 e (new)
Paragraph 8 e (new)
8 e. Points out the central importance of the agricultural and food sectors in the economy and in providing decent and sustainable job opportunities in rural areas; underlines that this in most cases concerns smallholdings and family farms; notes the importance of promoting and enhancing measures and tools to support increasing product quality, diversification of products, sustainable modernisation of agricultural practices, safe working conditions and measures to strengthen the resilience of farmers; considers that the development of a sustainable agricultural sector and of rural areas should be at the centre of EU-Africa relations;
Amendment 71 #
2021/2178(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 f (new)
Paragraph 8 f (new)
8 f. Emphasises the importance of supporting small farms and pastoralism and other traditional/local food systems in order to strengthen their resilience and boost their contribution to food security, sustainable resource management and biodiversity conservation;
Amendment 72 #
2021/2178(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 g (new)
Paragraph 8 g (new)
8 g. Stresses the importance of the inclusion in the EU-Africa partnership of the protection and promotion of the right of local communities to access and control natural resources such as land and water; deplores the fact that land grabbing is rife in Africa; points out that it is a brutal practice that undermines food sovereignty and endangers rural African communities; stresses the importance of launching an inclusive process with the aim of guaranteeing the effective participation of civil society organisations and local communities in the development, implementation and monitoring of policies and actions related to land grabbing; calls for the Voluntary Guidelines on the Responsible Governance of Tenure (VGGT) to be observed in all projects that promote the protection of land rights, including in trade, and also for measures to ensure that projects do not endanger the land rights of small-scale farmers;
Amendment 73 #
2021/2178(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 h (new)
Paragraph 8 h (new)
8 h. Regrets the lack of recognition of the strategic importance of rangelands, which cover about 43 % of the African land surface and are therefore important carbon sinks; calls on the Commission to develop, together with local communities and local stakeholders, a strategy to optimise this potential through sustainable grazing management such as that practiced by pastoralists;
Amendment 74 #
2021/2178(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 i (new)
Paragraph 8 i (new)
8 i. Notes that, for example, grazing rights and community pastures are traditional land use rights based on common law and not on securitised property rights; emphasises, however, the fundamental importance of protecting these common rights for rural populations;
Amendment 75 #
2021/2178(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 j (new)
Paragraph 8 j (new)
8 j. Calls for the social tensions between settled agricultural populations and nomadic pastoral communities to be addressed, notably in regions with overlapping ethnoreligious conflicts;
Amendment 76 #
2021/2178(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 k (new)
Paragraph 8 k (new)
8 k. Is deeply concerned about the high dependence of African states on food imports, especially from the European Union, particularly when these imports are made up of subsidised products whose low price represents harmful competition for small-scale agriculture in Africa;
Amendment 78 #
2021/2178(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 m (new)
Paragraph 8 m (new)
8 m. Stresses that COVID-19 and the ensuing economic crisis and closure of borders, locust infestations and desertification have deteriorated the already difficult food security situation in Africa and shone a spotlight on the vulnerabilities of the global food system; stresses the potential of local and regional markets to address current food system failures;
Amendment 79 #
2021/2178(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 n (new)
Paragraph 8 n (new)
8 n. Calls for the EU-Africa partnership to focus its efforts in the area of agriculture on safeguarding African countries’ right to food sovereignty and on increasing their food security as a priority, as well as enhancing their capacity to meet the nutritional requirements of their populations;
Amendment 80 #
2021/2178(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 o (new)
Paragraph 8 o (new)
Amendment 81 #
2021/2178(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 p (new)
Paragraph 8 p (new)
8 p. Considers that the EU-African partnership should especially support female and youth entrepreneurship in rural and urban areas, and that to do so it is essential to support equal access to economic and productive resources such as financial services and land rights; calls for the development of exchanges between African and European female entrepreneurs by means of platforms that enable networking, experience-sharing and the production of common projects;
Amendment 82 #
2021/2178(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 q (new)
Paragraph 8 q (new)
8 q. Stresses that women who work in subsistence agriculture face additional hurdles in maintaining food sovereignty due to the strong protection of new plant varieties by the International Convention for the Protection of New Varieties of Plants (UPOV) in trade agreements;
Amendment 83 #
2021/2178(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 r (new)
Paragraph 8 r (new)
8 r. Emphasises the importance of rural transformation and strengthening local, regional and transparent value chains in order to create sustainable jobs, avoid human rights violations and mitigate climate change; stresses the need to support young people and women, in particular through training, access to credit and access to markets; calls for their involvement in formulating agricultural policies and for support for collective action through small producer organisations;
Amendment 84 #
2021/2178(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 s (new)
Paragraph 8 s (new)
8 s. Welcomes the proposal of the Task Force for Rural Africa for the establishment of a Europe-Africa twinning programme linking agricultural bodies of EU Member States and partner countries in Africa with the aim of sharing sustainable best practices and fostering relationships between strongly engaged and similar partners;
Amendment 4 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 8 a (new)
Citation 8 a (new)
— having regard to the Council conclusions of 10 December 2018 on women, peace and security,
Amendment 7 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 10 a (new)
Citation 10 a (new)
— having regard to the Council conclusions of 10 May 2021 on security and defence,
Amendment 8 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 10 b (new)
Citation 10 b (new)
— having regard to the Commission's Joint Communication of 7 June 2017 titled "A Strategic Approach to Resilience in the EU's external action",
Amendment 9 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 11 a (new)
Citation 11 a (new)
— having regard to the Commission's communication of 24 February 2021 titled "Forging a climate-resilient Europe - the new EU Strategy on Adaptation to Climate Change",
Amendment 10 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 17 a (new)
Citation 17 a (new)
— having regard to the UN Sustainable Development Goals,
Amendment 11 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 19 a (new)
Citation 19 a (new)
— having regard to the European Parliament resolution of 7 July 2021 on EU-NATO cooperation in the context of transatlantic relations,
Amendment 12 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 19 b (new)
Citation 19 b (new)
— having regard to the European Parliament resolution of 26 June 2018 on climate diplomacy,
Amendment 14 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas environmental factors can influence human and state security in various direct and indirect ways, while particularly affecting economically disadvantaged populations and having socio-economic effects; whereas climate change has negative effects on cultural and natural heritage of the areas affected;
Amendment 20 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas climate change and climate-related impacts, including environmental degradation, loss of biodiversity, deforestation, desertification, extreme weather, water and food scarcity, air pollution and natural disasters are already threatening local, regional and international security, stability and peace; whereas climate change, which is predicted to accelerate in the medium and long term, has become an increasingly dominant risk multiplier and must be viewed as a new security challenge that requires adequate resources, together with hybrid and cyber threats;
Amendment 21 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas climate change and climate-related impacts, including environmental degradation, loss of biodiversity, deforestation and natural disasters are already threatening local, regional and international security, stability and peace; whereas climate change, which isthe consequences of which are already evident and are predicted to accelerate in the medium and long term, has become an increasingly dominant risk multiplier and must be viewed as a new security challenge, together with hybrid and cyber threats;
Amendment 24 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
B a. whereas climate change remains at the heart of the peace and security agenda as the ultimate ‘threat multiplier’, worsening existing social, economic and environmental risks that can fuel unrest and potentially result in violent conflict;
Amendment 29 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C a (new)
Recital C a (new)
C a. whereas the impact of climate change on food price is undermining livelihoods, and prompting displacement, disease and famine, resulting in migration on an unprecedented scale in areas of already high tension;
Amendment 31 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C b (new)
Recital C b (new)
C b. whereas according to the World Bank’s updated 2021 Groundswell report, climate change could force 216 million people to move within their countries by 2050; whereas the report also states that immediate and concrete action can significantly reduce the scale of climate migration;
Amendment 32 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C c (new)
Recital C c (new)
C c. whereas rising sea levels have already caused flooding and salinization, posing a major security and existential risk to low-lying coastal areas and islands;
Amendment 33 #
2021/2102(INI)
C d. whereas water scarcity has a multifaceted impact on human security and socio-political stability; whereas, due to climate change, water supplies will be affected, especially in development countries, while global water demand will rise; whereas climate change is increasing risks of droughts and floods;
Amendment 34 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C e (new)
Recital C e (new)
C e. whereas environmental crime is a very frequent criminal activity in the world and a significant security concern; calls for stronger cooperation on this issue between the EU and partner countries, by supporting states developing their capabilities to tackle environmental crime;
Amendment 35 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C f (new)
Recital C f (new)
Amendment 38 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas the US armed forces have lost more military hardware and infrastructure due to natural disasters than due to the armed conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq combined; whereas the Biden administration has made positive efforts to combat climate change, including by re-joining the Paris Agreement and incorporating climate change in its Interim National Security Strategic Guidance;
Amendment 56 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H a (new)
Recital H a (new)
H a. whereas climate change issues are being exploited by malign actors in order to increase their leverage or to encourage hostilities;
Amendment 70 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2 a. Reminds that in the European Defence Fund (EDF) Regulation, research and development actions can be directed at solutions to improve efficiency, reduce carbon footprint and bring sustainable best practices;
Amendment 71 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 b (new)
Paragraph 2 b (new)
2 b. Underlines the need to invest in smart, integrated, "whole of society” solutions as an urgency to achieve significant emissions reduction, to avoid the worst effects of climate change and also to invest heavily in the climate resilience of nations that need it in order to avoid instability, conflict and major humanitarian disasters;
Amendment 72 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. CWelcomes the EEAS intention that civilian and military CSDP missions and operations will develop and incorporate a set of actions to effectively implement environmental aspects into its work; calls on the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy (VP/HR) to make sure that climate change is mainstreamed in the Union’s external action; calls for climate-specific strategies, policies, procedures, measures and capabilities to be developedhat aim to address all aspects of EU common security and defence policy; calls on the VP/HR to make sure that the development of a Union policy on climate security and defence entails the implementation of a human security approach; supports strengthening member state capabilities by incorporating environmental aspects into civilian and military missions' training programmes, by exchanging best practices and expertise;
Amendment 82 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4 a. Calls for an unprecedented, globally coordinated action to both rapidly reduce the scale and scope of climate change by dramatically reducing emissions, to avoid significant, severe or catastrophic global security consequences in the future, highlights the need to climate-proof all elements of security – including infrastructure, institutions and policies, and to rapidly adapt to its effects;
Amendment 87 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6 a. Calls for increased support for efforts aiming to tackle climate change and enhancing climate-neutral alternatives in the immediate EU neighbourhood, namely Western Balkans, Eastern Partnership and Southern Neighbourhood, in order to prevent possible security challenges;
Amendment 93 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Welcomes the light-touch reporting process based on indicators of progress related to the environmental footprint, including energy, water, waste management, etc., of CSDP missions and operations; stresses the necessity to generate more detailed assessments by 2022; acknowledges that many CSDP missions are conducted in areas which are severely affected by climate change, which multiplies challenges to these missions;
Amendment 122 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)
Paragraph 13 a (new)
13 a. Calls for international cooperation to address challenges related to environmental migration, in order to develop common solutions; reminds that areas and regions strongly affected by climate change have a large percentage of young population, due to which a special focus needs to be put on children and youth;
Amendment 135 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)
Paragraph 16 a (new)
16 a. Welcomes the increased focus on climate-security nexus, participation of NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg at the 26th UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties in Glasgow, and calls for concrete EU- NATO cooperation in this regard;
Amendment 141 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 a (new)
Paragraph 17 a (new)
17 a. Stresses that the effects of climate change in the Arctic are creating a geopolitical challenge for the EU; stresses that the Arctic must remain an area of peaceful cooperation and calls for measures to avoid steps leading towards increased militarisation; reminds that EU countries Finland, Sweden and Denmark are members of the Arctic Council;
Amendment 168 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 a (new)
Paragraph 21 a (new)
21 a. Calls for a securitization agenda of climate change by recognizing climate change as a critical factor that militaries will have to deal with, not only because of its impacts on military operations, but also anticipating increasing climate-induced internal displacement which is already higher than conflict displacement; notes however, the under preparedness of armed forces for the security implications of the world’s changing climate;
Amendment 175 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Underlines that an increase in defence expenditure should not lead to an increase in emissions, and that part of defence spending should be dedicated to investments in instruments that significantly reduce emissions; recalls that EU and NATO military strategists and planners have been working on the question of how armed forces can reduce their carbon footprint for more than a decade; welcomes, in this respect, the EDA’s activities, in particular the Go Green policy it launched in 2012, its Military Green concept and, the Consultation Forum for Sustainable Energy, its working group on the circular economy, and calls for an acceleration and broadening of such projects and for an independent external evaluation thereof;
Amendment 203 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29 a (new)
Paragraph 29 a (new)
29 a. Highlights the important role of parliamentary diplomacy in strengthening international ties to combat climate change, including through the work of EP committees and delegations, and calls for increased focus on the climate-security nexus;
Amendment 204 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29 b (new)
Paragraph 29 b (new)
Amendment 206 #
2021/2102(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29 c (new)
Paragraph 29 c (new)
29 c. Highlights that climate security policies must not only focus on adapting to turbulence, resource constraints, and higher levels of unpredictability, but also on fostering the deeper change needed to restore ecological stability and balance at a global level;
Amendment 5 #
2021/2043(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Stresses that the proper functioning of the single market is key to safeguarding sufficient, affordable and high quality agri-food supplies across the EU and is the best tool to ensure recovery for allcompetitiveness, vibrant rural areas, decent incomes, a fair standard of living and a prompt recovery for the European agricultural community; notes that in some Member States the COVID-19 pandemic has led to certain types of local restrictions; recalls that national measures cannot undermine the fundamental principles of the single market;
Amendment 23 #
2021/2043(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Notes the recent increase in national labelling requirements for food and drink products; underlines that these requirements must be justified and, proportional and in line with EU harmonized food and drink regulatory framework, especially with regard to safety issues, and should not create obstacles to the smooth movement of food products across the EU;
Amendment 25 #
2021/2043(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4 a. Highlights the importance of improving transparency in the EU Single Market, and of better traceability of all production and distribution processes in accordance with the right of European consumers to have more information on the origin and production methods of the foodstuffs they consume; notes that an appropriate EU mandatory labelling on the origin of food products have the potential to significantly increase transparency and traceability, as well as avoid disruptions of the internal market;
Amendment 11 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 5 d (new)
Citation 5 d (new)
Amendment 13 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 5 a (new)
Citation 5 a (new)
— having regard to the Council regulation (EU 2020/1998 and to the Council Decision (CFSP 2020/1999 of 7 December 2020 concerning restrictive measures against serious human rights violations and abuses;
Amendment 17 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 5 b (new)
Citation 5 b (new)
— having regard to the European Parliament report with recommendations to the Commission on corporate due diligence and corporate accountability (2020/2129 (INL));
Amendment 22 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 5 c (new)
Citation 5 c (new)
— having regard to the European Parliament resolution on 17 December 2020 on forced labour and the situation of the Uyghurs in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (2020/2913 RSP);
Amendment 27 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 5 e (new)
Citation 5 e (new)
— having regard to the Council conclusions of 21 April2021 on an EU Strategy for cooperation in the Indo- Pacific;
Amendment 29 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 5 f (new)
Citation 5 f (new)
— having regard to the joint communication from the European Commission to the European Parliament, the European Council, TheCouncil, The European Economic and Social Committee of the Regions - Tackling Covid-19 disinformation - Getting the facts right (JOIN/2020/8 final);
Amendment 36 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas through its strong economic growth and ambitious foreign policy agenda, China is asserting a stronger global role both as an economic power and as foreign policy actor, which poses serious political, economic, security and technological challenges to the EU, has significant consequences for the world order and poses serious threats to liberal democracy;
Amendment 41 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A a (new)
Recital A a (new)
A a. whereas the promotion and protection of human rights, democracy and the rule of law should remain at the centre of the relationship between the EU and China, in line with the EU’s commitment to upholding these fundamental principles in all areas of its external action;
Amendment 44 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A b (new)
Recital A b (new)
A b. whereas since the launch of the Chinese government’s “Strike hard against violent terrorism” campaign in 2014, the situation of Uyghur and other primarily Muslim ethnic minorities in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous region have rapidly deteriorated and whereas more than one million people are imprisoned in detention camps, called ‘political re-education’ or ‘training’ centres, which constitutes the largest mass incarceration system in the world; whereas the Chinese government has developed a massive coercive labour training and transfer scheme, in which Uyghur workers are enrolled and subject to systemic forced and prison labour;
Amendment 48 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A c (new)
Recital A c (new)
A c. whereas the Uyghur population is victim of the Chinese government’s efforts to eradicate their unique identity and existence as a population through torture, enforced disappearance, mass surveillance, cultural and religious erasure, forced sterilization of women, sexual violence and violations of reproductive rights and family separation; whereas credible legal analysis has concluded that these offences knowingly committed as part of a widespread and systemic attack against the civilian population are assessed as crimes against humanity within the international legal framework;
Amendment 53 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A d (new)
Recital A d (new)
Amendment 56 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
Amendment 63 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
B a. whereas the EU Global Human Rights sanctions regime enables the EU to impose restrictive measures on targeted individuals, entities and bodies, including states and non-states actors responsible for, involved in or associated with serious human rights violations and abuses, including slavery; whereas on 22nd March 2021 four Chinese individuals and one entity directly responsible for serious human rights violations in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region have been included in the list of natural persons and entities subject to these restrictive measures;
Amendment 67 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B b (new)
Recital B b (new)
B b. whereas in response to these measures addressing human rights violations and abuses, China imposed counter-sanctions on ten European individuals and four entities, including five Members of the European Parliament and two EU institutional bodies, the Subcommittee on Human Rights of the European Parliament and the Political and Security Committee of the Council of the European Union; whereas Chinese sanctions lack legal justifications and legal basis and directly target not only individuals and entities concerned but the European Union as a whole;
Amendment 69 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas the existing EU China Strategy has revealed its limitations in the light of recent developments and the challenges posed by China; whereas China can no longer be considered, equally and at the same time, as a partner, a competitor and a rival;
Amendment 82 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point a
Paragraph 1 – point a
(a) elaborate a more assertive EU- China strategy that unites all Member States and shapes relations with Beijing in the interest of the EU as a whole, whilith the defendingce of our values at its core and promoting a rules-based multilateral order;
Amendment 87 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point b – point 1
Paragraph 1 – point b – point 1
1) Open principled and interests- based dialogue on global challenges;
Amendment 92 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point b – point 2
Paragraph 1 – point b – point 2
2) Enhanced engagement on human rights issues through economic leverage;
Amendment 106 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading 1
Subheading 1
Open principled and interests-based dialogue on global challenges
Amendment 107 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Calls on the VP/HR to ensure that the new EU-China strategy involves China in an open dialogue on global challenges, such as climate change and the fight against global pandemics; Acknowledges the de facto necessity to engage with China on various global issues such as the fight against climate change, environmental issues, peace and security, sustainable development and space; Calls on the VP/HR to ensure that the new EU-China strategy involves China on global challenges in a dialogue driven by EU fundamental principles and interests and pursuing the core objectives of EU external engagement,
Amendment 117 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
Amendment 131 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Underscores the importance of capitalising onencouraging China’s commitment to tackling climate change and other environmental issues by reinforcing a balanced partnership in this field and emphasises the need to ensure that China commits to peak its emissions before 2030, in line with the Paris Agreement by implementing a carbon border adjustment mechanism; Stresses the need to ensure coherence between China’s announced global ambitions in the fight against climate change and the environmental impacts of its investment strategies at home and overseas;
Amendment 140 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Calls for Human Rights Dialogues to be held regularly and calls for a solid benchmarkingthe EU to rethink its approach to Human Rights Dialogues with China in order to ensure that these exchanges produce genuine positive outcomes for human rights and human rights defenders in China; insists ofn the progress made in bilateral dialogues more generallynecessity to complement these EU-China Human Rights Dialogues with systematic human rights discussions at other high- level EU-China summits and bilateral meetings;
Amendment 166 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading 2
Subheading 2
Enhanced engagement on human rights issues through economic leverage
Amendment 169 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6 a. Urges the Commission and the EEAS to jointly develop an ambitious, holistic and results-oriented EU strategy for Human Rights in China articulating the use of all areas and instruments of EU external actions and setting concrete goals such as the closure of detention camps in Xinjiang, the end of the persecution of ethnic and religious minorities and human rights defenders and the abolition of death penalty;
Amendment 175 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Calls on the Commission to use the suspension of the ratification process of the EU-China Comprehensive Agreement on Investment (CAI) as a leverage instrument to improve the protection of human rights and support for civil society in China;
Amendment 189 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 – introductory part
Paragraph 8 – introductory part
8. Underlines the inevitable conditions and pre- ratification commitments that must be met before Parliament can give its consent to the EU- China CAI, notably:
Amendment 192 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 – point a
Paragraph 8 – point a
(a) having a timetable for China’s ratification and full implementation of key International Labour Organisation (ILO) conventions on labour rights and a robust monitoring mechanism, as well as concrete measures or steps towards putting an end to other human rights violations against the Uyghur minority in China; (C029 - Forced Labour Convention, 1930; C087 -Freedom of Association and Protection of the Right to Organise Convention,1948; C098 - Right to Organise and Collective Bargaining Convention, 1949; C105- Abolition of Forced Labour Convention, 1957) and a robust monitoring mechanism with unhindered access to workplaces enabling proper verification of standards implementation;
Amendment 202 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 – point a a (new)
Paragraph 8 – point a a (new)
(a a) a “Human rights” clause must be integrated as an essential element of the agreement. This clause should stipulating clearly that respect and protection of human rights, as defined my customary law and international conventions, are binding obligations on the parties and allowing the parties to require appropriate measures from the partner to comply, or to partly or fully suspend the agreement in case of violations;
Amendment 206 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 – point a b (new)
Paragraph 8 – point a b (new)
(a b) Ensure that the violation of the revised Investment and Sustainable Development Section of the agreement can lead to sanctions;
Amendment 207 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 – point a c (new)
Paragraph 8 – point a c (new)
(a c) the creation of an independent Domestic Advisory Group (DAG), composed of civil society organisations and human rights defenders, provided with the task of monitoring the implementation of all provisions on the agreement and its impact on human, labour and environmental rights. It should be provided with adequate competences and resources to investigate specific issues and cases;
Amendment 208 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 – point a d (new)
Paragraph 8 – point a d (new)
(a d) reliable evidence of sustainable termination of human rights violations against the Uyghur population and other minorities in China;
Amendment 210 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 – point b
Paragraph 8 – point b
(b) the repeal by China of the National Security Law imposed on Hong- Kong in June 2020, the release of pro- democracy legislators and activists and a recommitment by China to uphold its international commitments to Hong Kong under the Sino-British Joint Declaration and Hong Kong’s Basic Law;
Amendment 232 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. SReiterates its call on China to allow un hindered access to an independent investigation mission in Xinjiang and states its support for UN to carry out legal investigations into alleged genocide and crimes against humanity taking place in the Xinjiang region;
Amendment 240 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Calls for the introduction of a unilateral ban on the import of products from forced labour and child labour or any other form of modern slavery, including cotton from the Xinjiang region in the EU market;
Amendment 249 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Calls on the Commission to put forward the proposed EU legislation for Mandatory Human Rights Due Diligence Framework as a matter of urgency; recalls that in order to be effective against human rights violations and environmental degradations in China, due diligence obligations must be imposed on both EU companies and non-EU companies operating in the EU market and must cover the entire global value chains of these companies; they must be carefully enforced and monitored;
Amendment 254 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 a (new)
Paragraph 11 a (new)
11 a. Calls on the EU and its Member States to ensure protection of EU and Chinese citizens and EU residents members of the Uyghur Diaspora communities harassed and persecuted in the EU by Chinese authorities, and to investigate the reports of threats and reprisals as a matter of urgency; Calls on the EU Member States to reassess and abolish their extradition agreements with China in the light of the Chinese Government’s severe violations against its population and citizens abroad and in light of the recent sanctions, which could criminalize any Chinese citizen in Europe for interacting with individuals and entities sanctioned;
Amendment 279 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Calls on the Commission to commission an EU-wide audit of the EU dependency on China in certain strategically important and critical sectors, setting out plans to reduce dependency, while maintaining overall trade relations with China, which should be as openbalanced as possible;
Amendment 287 #
Amendment 338 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 a (new)
Paragraph 17 a (new)
17 a. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to counter China’s influence strategy in the EU’s neighbourhood, in particular through investment;
Amendment 340 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 b (new)
Paragraph 17 b (new)
17 b. calls on the Commission and Member States to equip themselves with the necessary resources and tools to analyse and counter China State and non- state actors’ hybrid threats and multiple interferences in our democratic systems, including in the cyberspace;
Amendment 341 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 c (new)
Paragraph 17 c (new)
17 c. calls on the Commission to encourage and coordinate actions aimed to counter China’s foreign financing of our democratic processes, including the strategy of elite capture and the technique of co-opting top-level civil servants and former European politicians;
Amendment 366 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 a (new)
Paragraph 19 a (new)
19 a. Expresses grave concern over China’s expansionist policies in the South China Sea, East China Sea and Taiwan Strait, especially China’s continued military provocation aimed at Taiwan, with Chinese military aircraft intruding Taiwan’s Air Defence Identification Zone on regular basis; underlines that the status quo across Taiwan Strait, freedom of navigation in the Indo-Pacific region are of critical importance to the EU and its Member States; reiterates strong opposition to any unilateral actions that could escalate tensions and undermine the status quo; encourages that cross- strait relations should be developed constructively, without destabilising initiatives or coercion by either side, and that any change to cross-strait relations must not be made against the will of Taiwan’s citizens;
Amendment 369 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 b (new)
Paragraph 19 b (new)
19 b. Urges the Commission to come up with concrete proposals and action to facilitate Taiwan’s full participation as an observer in the meetings, mechanism and activities of the World Health Organization, the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC);
Amendment 430 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29
Paragraph 29
29. Calls on the Commission to propose a strategy to deal with trade imbalances more broadly, going beyond the current trade defensive instruments, if necessary, so as to tackle the large structural trade deficit, China’s use of large-scale export credits and loans, the opaque financing of strategic Chinese companies, China’s policy of indigenous innovation connected to efforts to promote Chinese standards while allowing its companies not to pay a fair price for the use of standard essential patents, and its endeavour to become a leading export nation of advanced technological goods;
Amendment 436 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30
Paragraph 30
30. Considers it necessary to conclude a Bilateral Investment Agreement with Taiwan in parallel with the CAI and in line with the EU's One China policy, which would ensure that stability is safeguarded in the region and the right to Taiwan’s democratic existence is reaffirmed;
Amendment 439 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30 a (new)
Paragraph 30 a (new)
30 a. urges the Commission to move forward with the Bilateral Investment Agreement with Taiwan and start the impact assessment, public consultation and scoping exercise with Taiwan before the end of 2021;
Amendment 493 #
2021/2037(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 36
Paragraph 36
36. Calls for defence cooperation among the Member States to be strengthened and for the Member States to invest in stronger cooperation with other democratic players such as Japan, India, South Korea, Australia and, New Zealand and Taiwan;
Amendment 11 #
2021/2006(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Regrets the lack of a comprehensive EU monitoring framework for methane emissions, especially in the agriculture sector, where the sources of methane emissions are often diffuse and make measurement, reporting and verification challenging; welcomes the European Commission's initiative to develop, in cooperation with international partners, an international emissions observatory; calls on the Commission, therefore, to improve the measurement, reporting and verification of methane emissions in the agricultural sector;
Amendment 34 #
2021/2006(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 c (new)
Paragraph 1 c (new)
1 c. Calls on the European Commission to clarify the share contribution of EU agriculture to the EU's anthropogenic methane emissions, to differentiate this share to the world’s agriculture one and to estimate the contribution of the imported agri-food products to the EU anthropogenic methane emissions, through the EDGAR- FOOD database;
Amendment 39 #
2021/2006(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 d (new)
Paragraph 1 d (new)
1 d. Emphasises that a significant share of global methane emissions in the agri-food sector originates outside of the EU; emphasizes the need for the EU to take the lead in exchanges of best practices with its third countries' trading partners with the aim to reduce methane emissions from agriculture, including, for example, through forestry-based initiatives;
Amendment 44 #
2021/2006(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 e (new)
Paragraph 1 e (new)
1 e. Calls for the definition of policies and measures to encourage and support improved climatic performance of agricultural and livestock production through reductions in methane emissions, in line with the principle of ensuring access for all population groups in Europe to healthy, safe and sufficient food;
Amendment 47 #
2021/2006(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 f (new)
Paragraph 1 f (new)
1 f. Calls for regulatory measures based on national and regional specificities and production systems for emissions from agriculture and related land use as part of the “Fit for 55” package to ensure ambitious reductions in all GHG emissions in these sectors in the EU and also to address embedded land use emissions from imported feed and food; calls for harmonized calculation methods for methane and then a regulatory framework that incentivizes progressive reductions in methane emissions to deliver on climate objectives; reiterates that especially the methane reduction calculation should consider innovative feed additives and nutrition management plans, as well as innovative husbandry practices;
Amendment 53 #
2021/2006(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Urges the Commission to ensure positive synergies between climate regulation and the Industrial Emissions Directive in order to avoid double regulation; welcomes the announcement of the European Commission to revise the Effort Sharing Regulation (ESR) in order to reflect the increased carbon reduction target through increased incentives to reduce methane emissions, for example through specific dedicated eco-schemes and carbon farming initiatives under the new CAP;
Amendment 84 #
2021/2006(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Amendment 95 #
2021/2006(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 c (new)
Paragraph 3 c (new)
3 c. Emphasizes the importance of new animal feed strategies able, inter alia, through the supplementary feeding of red algae (Asparagopsis), to reduce methane emissions in the livestock sector; underlines the need for new scientific research and innovation in anaerobic digestion and composting as an effective solution to recycle organic waste materials (production of biomass and organic fertilizers) and prevent methane emissions;
Amendment 120 #
2021/2006(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4 a. Highlights the active engagement of the agricultural sector in climate action and recognizes the full potential of woodlands and grasslands; calls for the development of nutrient management systems and innovative dietary solutions to reduce methane emissions in the livestock sector and for methods to calculate the true impact of methane on the environment to be developed in light of more recent research on the lifecycle of methane;
Amendment 140 #
2021/2006(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. CWelcomes the announcement of the European Commission to set up an expert group with the aim of analysing the life-cycle methane emissions matrix; considers that farm level certification schemes for climate effective farming, including common measurement and verification data for methane reductions, will be an important tool for monitoring and incentivising methane reductions at farm level; highlights the need to assess not just the impact on methane emissions of specific livestock management and animal welfare choices, imported or domestic feeds and intensive or pastoral farming choices, but also of the impact of supplementing the animal diet with feed additives on animal health, pest resilience, food safety(toxicity), productivity, product quality, environmental impact;
Amendment 167 #
2021/2006(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6 a. Calls on the Commission to include in its forthcoming Long Term Vision for Rural Areas cross-sector cooperative approaches with and amongst farmers and local communities in order to develop and promote circularity also in the field of sustainable biogas production, aiming at reducing methane emissions;
Amendment 1 #
2020/2273(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph -1 (new)
Paragraph -1 (new)
-1. Whereas agricultural biodiversity includes all components of biological diversity of relevance to food and agriculture; whereas it includes the variety and variability of ecosystems, animals, plants and micro-organisms, at the genetic, species and ecosystem levels which are necessary to sustain key functions of the ecosystems;
Amendment 2 #
2020/2273(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph -1 a (new)
Paragraph -1 a (new)
-1a. Whereas the major direct drivers of biodiversity loss are changes in land and sea use; natural resource extraction; climate change; pollution; and invasion of alien species; whereas those drivers result from adverse set of underlying causes related notably with production and consumption patterns, human population dynamics and trends, trade and technological innovations1a; _________________ 1aIPBES, “Global assessment report on biodiversity and ecosystem services”, 2019
Amendment 3 #
2020/2273(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph -1 b (new)
Paragraph -1 b (new)
-1b. Whereas the long term trends in farmland and forest common bird and grassland butterfly populations demonstrate that Europe has experienced a major decline in farmland biodiversity; whereas this is primarily due to loss, fragmentation and degradation of natural ecosystems, mainly caused by agricultural intensification, intensive forest management, land abandonment and urban sprawl 1b; _________________ 1bEEA, “The European environment – state and outlook 2020”, 2019.
Amendment 4 #
2020/2273(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph -1 c (new)
Paragraph -1 c (new)
Amendment 5 #
2020/2273(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph -1 d (new)
Paragraph -1 d (new)
-1d. Whereas agriculture and forestry are key components of the European economy and society, providing safe, quality and affordable food and representing a major component of the viability of rural areas, in terms of preserving employment and economic opportunities, quality of life and the environment;
Amendment 6 #
2020/2273(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph -1 e (new)
Paragraph -1 e (new)
-1e. Whereas the specific nature and structural features of the EU agricultural sector, mainly composed by small farms based on family labour, two-thirds of which with less than 5 ha in size, and where around one third of the managers are 65 years old or over, poses specific challenges that need to be taken into consideration by policy makers in designing measures and policies involving the sector;
Amendment 17 #
2020/2273(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Recalls that agricultural productivity and resilience depend on biodiversity to guarantee the long-term sustainability of our food systems; underlines, furthermore, that much of the biodiversity across Europe has been created by farming and its survival is dependent on the continued active and sustainable management of farmland;
Amendment 86 #
2020/2273(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Emphasises the strong link with the Farm to Fork strategy and the need for a holistic approach to the food system; calls on the Commission to establish an evidence-based evaluation of the implementation of the strategy’s measures and targets, in particular of the individual and cumulative impacts on the social and economic sustainability of agriculture and forestry in the EU, on food security and prices, and on the potential risks of displacing biodiversity losses abroad by the replacement of local agricultural and forestry production with imports;
Amendment 112 #
2020/2273(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Considers that biodiversity conservation is a key societal goal, requiring a broad and inclusive debate, and the effective participation of everyone in society, in particular those more affected by the measures, such as the farming community and forest-based sector, while at the same benefiting from their knowledge and experience, and creating a sense of ownership and increased commitment with biodiversity protection, vital for the successful implementation of the strategy;
Amendment 123 #
2020/2273(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Considers that more focus should be put at all policy levels in developing win-win solutions for biodiversity protection where the three dimensions of sustainability, economic, social and environmental are promoted;
Amendment 240 #
2020/2273(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8a. Highlights the importance of enhancing biodiversity in agro-systems at all levels, from fields to landscapes; considers fundamental to reinforce scientific research on the relations between agriculture practices, ecological processes and ecosystems services, promoting the development of innovative practical solutions and the site-specific knowledge necessary to promote ecosystem services in a wide range of ecological contexts;
Amendment 296 #
2020/2273(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9 b (new)
Paragraph 9 b (new)
9b. Highlights that the excessive use of fertilisers is a source of air, soil and water pollution and climate impacts, with negative effects on biodiversity; recalls that nutrients are essential for agricultural production and for keeping healthy soils; urges Member States to put forward in their Strategic Plans measures promoting the efficient management and circularity of nutrients, as well strongly support education of farm advisors and farmers; stresses that improved management of nutrients presents both economic and environmental benefits;
Amendment 313 #
2020/2273(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Regrets the fact that agricultural production is being increasingly concentrated in a limited range of agricultural crops, varieties and genotypes; underlines that preserving genetic variability in all its components is crucial to promoting the diversity and richness of agricultural ecosystems and to the preservation of local genetic resources, in particular as a repository of solutions to help in facing the environmental and climatic challenges that lie ahead.
Amendment 317 #
2020/2273(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10 a. Draws attention to the fact that in perennial crops, such as the traditional European wine grape varieties of Vitis vinifera, the loss of diversity occurs also by loss of genetic diversity within the varieties themselves; regrets that the UE vegetative propagation systems are designed in a way that does not promote the conservation of intra-variety biodiversity; calls on the Commission to promote regulatory changes to the EU vegetative propagation regulations, encouraging “on farm” conservation of genetic variability of the traditional European varieties.
Amendment 325 #
2020/2273(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10 b (new)
Paragraph 10 b (new)
10b. Underlines that the abandonment of agricultural fields affects between 10 and 50% of the agricultural land of the EU, which causes the loss of traditional landscapes, increases the risk of soil erosion and deteriorates habitats for numerous farmland species; recalls the fundamental role of the measures for Areas Facing Natural Constraints in avoiding land abandonment and maintaining human occupation in these areas, but also in forest fire prevention and in protecting specific ecosystems and natural resources, such as High Nature Value farmland areas.
Amendment 327 #
2020/2273(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10 c (new)
Paragraph 10 c (new)
10c. Highlights the fundamental role of farm advisory systems in disseminating innovation and knowledge, stimulating the exchange of experiences, promoting practical demonstrations, in particular by working at local level to better adapt to the specific realities on the ground; calls on Member States to provide comprehensive advice to farmers on adopting production systems and management practices promoting biodiversity on farmland.
Amendment 331 #
2020/2273(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10 d (new)
Paragraph 10 d (new)
10d. Underlines that research and innovation are key drivers in accelerating the transition to sustainable food systems notably by providing advanced knowledge enabling farmers to produce food with fewer inputs and to increase the delivery of the ecosystem services, while supporting a social and economic sustainable development; stresses that particular efforts are needed in the dissemination and exchange of knowledge to ensure broader and inclusive uptake by farmers.
Amendment 334 #
2020/2273(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10 e (new)
Paragraph 10 e (new)
10e. Considers that digital technologies can help European farmers to provide safe and quality food while helping preserving biodiversity and minimising the environmental impact of agriculture; stresses that work is needed to ensure that everyone benefits from the digitalization opportunities, by improving network connectivity in rural areas and by facilitating the implementation of digital agriculture in an inclusive manner, through training and rural extension that considers the farmers' culture and specific conditions.
Amendment 25 #
2020/2260(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 5 a (new)
Citation 5 a (new)
- having regard to the European Pillar of Social Rights,
Amendment 32 #
2020/2260(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 5 b (new)
Citation 5 b (new)
- having regard to its resolution on European protection of cross-border and seasonal workers in the context of the COVID-19 crisis adopted on 19 June,
Amendment 355 #
2020/2260(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C d (new)
Recital C d (new)
Cd. whereas the uptake of smart and digital farming technologies to continuously monitor animal health and welfare has the potential to ensure effective disease prevention and the implementation of animal welfare standards;
Amendment 356 #
2020/2260(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C e (new)
Recital C e (new)
Ce. whereas it is necessary to ensure consistency and coherence amongst the measures envisaged by the farm to fork strategy and the CAP and CFP, the Trade Policy, the EU biodiversity strategy , as well as other related EU policies and strategies;
Amendment 378 #
2020/2260(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas it is important that consumers are trained, informed and enabled to take responsibility for the consequences of their choice of food stuffs, including the price, on the whole food system, from production to processing and distribution; whereas this requires a healthy and sound food environment which ensures that the healthy and sustainable choice is also the easy and affordable choice, and fosters and encourages consumption patterns, available for all consumers, that support human health while ensuring the sustainable use of natural and human resources and animal welfare;
Amendment 412 #
2020/2260(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas the European food system has played a crucial role during the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrating its resilience with farmers and their cooperatives or producers organisations, workers employed along the food value chain, processors and retailers working together under difficult conditions and sanitary risks, including lockdowns, to ensure that European consumers continue to have access to safe, affordable, and high quality products without impediment;
Amendment 491 #
2020/2260(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the farm to fork strategy as an important step in ensuring a sustainable, fair and resilient food system, which is central to achieving the goals set out in the European Green Deal, the European Pillar of Social Rights and in the SDGs; emphasises the inextricable links between healthy people, decent working conditions, healthy societies and a healthy planet, encourages the Commission to translate the strategy into concrete legislative and non-legislative action as soon as possible, involving not only farmers but all actors in the food chain, including consumers;
Amendment 548 #
2020/2260(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 c (new)
Paragraph 1 c (new)
1c. Urges the Commission to integrate food aid issues in the farm to fork strategy since 33 millions of Europeans suffer from lack of food, especially single parent families and students, and the social and economic consequences of the pandemic will increase that figure; recognises the unique role of the food aid associations across the European Union that need to be more supported because of the growing number of people who need help; considers that the resilience of our food system need to increase the connections between food policies and agricultural policies at every level from the local to the European level;
Amendment 666 #
2020/2260(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 b (new)
Paragraph 2 b (new)
2b. Recalls that the social dimension must be fully integrated in all future initiatives of the farm to fork strategy along with the economic and environmental dimensions to achieve a much-needed policy coherence for sustainable development; insists that improvement of working conditions, in line with the 8 ILO core Convention, collective bargaining, social protection, investment in public services, inclusive governance and fair taxation should be included as sustainability criteria;
Amendment 668 #
2020/2260(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 b (new)
Paragraph 2 b (new)
2b. Recalls that for the FAO, agroecology is a fundamental part of the global response to climate change and for the creation of sustainable food and agricultural systems, the new legislative framework for sustainable food systems, to be proposed until 2023, must be based on the principles and elements defined by the FAO as agroecology in order to trigger a true agroecological transition;
Amendment 689 #
2020/2260(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading 2
Subheading 2
Building the food chain that works for consumers, workers, producers, climate and the environment
Amendment 857 #
2020/2260(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 c (new)
Paragraph 3 c (new)
3c. Calls on the Commission to establish the appropriate regulatory framework to speed up the adoption of new plant health solutions, including plant protection products with a lower impact, such as low-risk substances or biosolutions;
Amendment 872 #
2020/2260(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 e (new)
Paragraph 3 e (new)
3e. Emphasises the need to improve policy coordination between agricultural legislation, particularly legislation on plant protection products, biocides and fertilisers, and, inter alia, water legislation, in order to ensure the protection of our water resources, particularly those used for drinking water supply , from overexploitation and agricultural pollution;
Amendment 963 #
2020/2260(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Takes note of the opportunities of manure management in promoting organic fertilisers, improving soil carbon content and, thus, contributing to carbon sequestration; further encourages EU waste legislation to look at agricultural residues as possible sources of fertilisers, bedding material and bioenergy;
Amendment 1074 #
2020/2260(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Welcomes the notion of rewarding carbon sequestration in soils; stresses, however, that intensive and industrial agriculture and farming models with negative impacts on biodiversity should not receive climate funding or be incentivised; calls for the proposals to be in line with the environmental objectives and the ‘do no harm’ principle of the Green Deal; calls on the European Commission together with the Member States to define what kind of production models are considered as intensive and industrial and to provide instruments to bring about change on those farms to become consistent with the principles and objectives defined in the Green Deal;
Amendment 1247 #
2020/2260(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Calls for CAP National Strategic Plans to ensure adequate financial support and incentives to promote new ecological ‘green’ business models for agriculture and artisanal food production, notably through fostering short supply chains and quality food production, such models should support farmers in the transition towards climate neutrality;
Amendment 1281 #
2020/2260(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8a. Welcomes the explicit recognition of a safeguard of the social rights of workers in the food chain; recalls that this has been endorsed by the European Parliament with the introduction of the social conditionality for the CAP basic payment in its position on the national strategic plans Regulation;
Amendment 1286 #
2020/2260(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 b (new)
Paragraph 8 b (new)
Amendment 1287 #
2020/2260(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 b (new)
Paragraph 8 b (new)
8b. Underlines that the COVID 19 pandemic presents the EU with the unique opportunity to rethink the European agriculture and food systems with a more sustainable and socially just vision;
Amendment 1298 #
2020/2260(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Recalls that the European food system delivers a sufficient and varied supply of safe, nutritious, affordable and sustainable food to people at all times and underlines that increasing the economic, environmental and social sustainability of food producers will ultimately increase their resilience; encourages the Commission and Member States to consider the food supply chain and its workers as a strategic asset for the safety and well-being of all Europeans; and to ensure that working and social protection conditions throughout the EU food supply chain meet national, EU and international standards for all workers;
Amendment 1407 #
2020/2260(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 a (new)
Paragraph 11 a (new)
11a. Acknowledges the importance of plant health for sustainable food production systems, and points to the need of raising public awareness and providing adequate training emphasising preventive approaches to dealing with pests and diseases;
Amendment 1457 #
2020/2260(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
12a. Urges the Commission to propose mechanisms that support cooperation between the various links in the chain, for example, by prioritizing stable market- oriented trade relations; considers that collaboration between the different segments of the food chain will be essential in the future, as it has been during the worst months of the covid-19 crisis;
Amendment 1480 #
2020/2260(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Urges the Commission to follow up on Directive (EU) 2019/633 on unfair trading practices22 and the EU code of conduct on responsible business and marketing practices by producing a monitoring framework for the food and retail sectors and providing for legal action if progress in integrating economic, environmental and social sustainability into corporate strategies is insufficient, and in so doing promoting and rewarding the efforts of sustainable agricultural producers while increasing the availability and affordability of healthy, sustainable food options and reducing the overall environmental footprint of the food system; stresses the importance of halting and addressing consolidation and concentration in the grocery retail sector in order to ensure fair prices for farmers; recalls the importance of making farmers more resilient in the market by getting more value out of the food chain, which is achieved by encouraging their participation in producer organisations or cooperatives; _________________ 22 OJ L 111, 25.4.2019, p. 59.
Amendment 1513 #
2020/2260(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)
Paragraph 13 a (new)
13a. Calls on the Commission to bring forward proposals for better cooperation between farmers, already allowed under competition rules, and to support investment in improving production and marketing structures to make them more robust, stable, secure and profitable for farmers as means of helping strengthen their position in the chain;
Amendment 1650 #
2020/2260(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Calls for measures toat European level to encourage product reformulation of products not covered by EU quality schemes and reduce the burden that highly processed foods with high salt, sugar and fat content place on public health; regrets that the introduction of nutrient profiles is greatly delayed and stresses that a robust set of nutrient profiles must be developed to restrict or prohibit the use of false nutritional claims on foods high in fats, sugars and/or salt; calls for a mandatory EU-wide front-of-pack nutrition labelling system based on independent science and urges Member States to support the implementation of the upcoming EU system and refrain from unilateral actions that could hinder the harmonization work of the European Commission;
Amendment 1703 #
2020/2260(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)
Paragraph 16 a (new)
16a. Calls on the European Commission to consider digital consumer information as a key element in making information on healthy and sustainable diets available to consumers in the EU;
Amendment 1710 #
2020/2260(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 b (new)
Paragraph 16 b (new)
16b. Calls on the Commission to strengthen the EU single market and provide clarity and simplicity for all players in the food sector, offering a more harmonised and science-based approach, which is currently lacking, in areas such as front-of-pack labelling, origin labelling, waste management, food donations, to name but a few, so that Europe can uphold sustainability standards in the food chain at the international level;
Amendment 1719 #
2020/2260(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 c (new)
Paragraph 16 c (new)
16c. Recalls the growing importance attached by producers and consumers to origin labelling; insists that such labelling should be established at EU level, should not undermine the smooth functioning of the internal market, be fully verifiable and traceable, and should be compatible with the EU's international obligations;
Amendment 1773 #
2020/2260(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Welcomes the fact that the strategy rightly recognises the role and influence of the food environment in shaping consumption patterns and the need to make it easier for consumers to choose healthy and sustainable diets; reiterates the importance of promoting sustainable diets by raising consumer awareness of the impacts of consumption patterns and providing information on diets that are better for human health and have a lower environmental footprint and alerting consumer on the proliferation of ultra- processed products that are presented as healthy copies; underlines that food prices must send the right signal to consumers; welcomes, therefore, the strategy’s objective that the healthy and sustainable choice should become the most affordable one;
Amendment 2035 #
2020/2260(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Reiterates its call to take the measures required to achieve a Union food waste reduction target of 30 % by 2025 and 50 % by 2030 compared to the 2014 baseline; underlines that binding targets and common criteria for measuring food waste in the different links of the food chain are needed to achieve this;
Amendment 2079 #
2020/2260(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24 a (new)
Paragraph 24 a (new)
24a. Expresses its concern on the dynamics resulting from the process of concentration and the increasing dominant power of financial investors in the food supply chain, which lead to lower food quality and worsening of working conditions;
Amendment 2119 #
2020/2260(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
25. Underlines the importance EU funding for research and innovation as a key driver in accelerating the transition to a more sustainable, healthy and inclusive European food system while facilitating investments needed to encourage agro- ecological practices in both social and technological innovation, and the crucial role of farm advisory services in ensuring the transfer of knowledge to the farming community, drawing on the existing specialised training systems for farmers in Member States; stresses the strategic importance of collective approaches through producer organisations and cooperatives to bring farmers together in achieving their goals;
Amendment 2262 #
2020/2260(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26 a (new)
Paragraph 26 a (new)
26a. Welcomes the explicit reference to the risk of asymmetries between the new requirements for European producers and those for imported products and calls once again on the European Commission to demand effective reciprocity in the negotiation of agreements with third countries;
Amendment 2278 #
2020/2260(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26 b (new)
Paragraph 26 b (new)
26b. Calls on the Commission and Member States to strengthen control mechanisms both at origin and at the border in trade with third countries to safeguard the animal and plant health of European agriculture and prevent the entry of pests and diseases from outside the EU;
Amendment 10 #
2020/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 16 a (new)
Citation 16 a (new)
— having regard to the Council conclusions of 16 April 2021 on EU Strategy for cooperation in the Indo- Pacific,
Amendment 26 #
2020/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 28 a (new)
Citation 28 a (new)
— having regard to the EEAS Climate Change and Defence Roadmap,
Amendment 27 #
2020/2257(INI)
— having regard to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, in particular to SDG 16, aiming at the promotion of peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development,
Amendment 28 #
2020/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 28 c (new)
Citation 28 c (new)
— having regard to the UN Agenda for Disarmament - Securing our Common Future,
Amendment 31 #
2020/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 32
Citation 32
— having regard to the visit by the NATO Secretary-General to the College of Commissioners of 15 December 2020, as well as his participation on the EU Council on 26 February 2021,
Amendment 34 #
2020/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 35 a (new)
Citation 35 a (new)
— having regard to the ECA Review No 09/2019 on European Defence,
Amendment 43 #
2020/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A a (new)
Recital A a (new)
Aa. whereas EU policy respects the obligations of Member States which see their common defence realised in NATO; whereas the EU and NATO share common security challenges, common defence interests and the same increasingly challenging security environment;
Amendment 47 #
2020/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A b (new)
Recital A b (new)
Ab. whereas the commitment to collective self-defence, embodied in NATO Treaty Article 5 and Article 42(7) TEU, is the guarantee of solidarity between Allies and between Member States;
Amendment 82 #
2020/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Commends the achievements of the Alliance and underlines its continued relevance; underlines that NATO needs to step up its efforts to adapt to the changing nature and increased level of threats, in order to remain a credible and sustainable global actor for collective security and peace in the world;
Amendment 84 #
2020/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 b (new)
Paragraph 1 b (new)
1b. Recalls that for EU Member States which are also NATO Allies, NATO is the primary framework for collective defence; underlines its will for the EU to keep deepening the transatlantic bond and its essential partnership with NATO; stresses the need, given the increasing multi- faceted threats the EU is facing in a highly multipolar world with unreliable superpowers, to also connect to other like- minded actors and explore new formats of cooperation;
Amendment 101 #
2020/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Underscores that the EU-NATO partnership and transatlantic cooperation as a whole are built on a common history and common support for the coshared values of democracy, freedom, respect for human rights, the rule of law and the promotion of peace and international cooperation;
Amendment 109 #
2020/2257(INI)
4. Underlines that NATO is a valued partner also to EU Member States which are not members of the alliance; recalls that NATO cooperation with non-NATO EU Member States is an integral part of EU- NATO cooperation, and encourages the fullest possiblewelcomes involvement of the non- NATO EU Member States in the alliance’s initiatives; reminds that EU-NATO cooperation shall not prejudice the security and defence policy of the non-NATO EU Member States;
Amendment 125 #
2020/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Highlights that the transatlantic community is faced with a broad array of unprecedented common challenges, ranging from the fight against terrorism to hybrid threats, climate change, disinformation, cyber attacks, emerging and disruptive technologies (EDTs), and a shifting global power balance, as well asstresses that, in view of the resulting challenge to the international rules-based order, stronger EU-NATO cooperation contributes to effective global governance and multilateralism;
Amendment 142 #
2020/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Commends the key suggestions made byWelcomes the appointment by NATO Secretary General of the 2030 NATO independent group of experts, and in particular their call for stronger EU- NATO cooperation; endorses the proposals of December 2020 by the Commission President and the VP/HR for an EU-US Security and Defence Dialogue; welcomes the intention of the Biden administration to engage with EU and NATO partners; underlines both the key relevance of the US forces stationedsecurity presence in Europe for Europe’s security and its full commitment to their continued presenceransatlantic security cooperation;
Amendment 173 #
2020/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Believes that the upcoming NATO Summit is an important opportunity to advance EU-NATO cooperation; underlines that the EU is a partner of NATO and that EU-NATO cooperation is mutually reinforcing and based on the agreed guiding principles of transparency, reciprocity, inclusiveness, the decision- making autonomy of both organisations and the principle of the single set of forces; reiteratacknowledges that a European military capability to act is essential to contribute to the fulfilment of NATO’'s core tasks, as well as to enhance deterrence;
Amendment 185 #
2020/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Welcomes the requests by the United States, Canada, and Norway to participate in the PESCO project on military mobility; underlines that this marks an important step towards increased coRecalls that the participation of third countries, which would meet an agreed set of political, substantive and legal conditions, in individual PESCO projects can be in the strategic interest of the European Union, when it comes to providing technical expertise or additional capabilities, particularly in case of strategic partners such as NATO Allies, Western Balkans or EaP partners; in this regard welcomes the rence between the common EU and NATO capability development efforts, and illustrates the revitalisation of the transatlantic partnershipquests by the United States, Canada and Norway to participate in the PESCO project on military mobility, which illustrates the revitalisation of the transatlantic partnership, reminds that possible third country participation to PESCO projects should not undermine the objective to foster the EU CSDP;
Amendment 194 #
2020/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Recalls the crucial importance of closedeepening transatlantic cooperation in the areas of arms control, disarmament and non- proliferation; furthermore, sees potentialges the EU and NATO to strive towards an ambitious agenda for the preservation of effective international arms control, disarmament and non-proliferation regimes as a cornerstone of global, transatlantic and European security, and to pursue policies designed to move forward the reduction and elimination of all nuclear arsenals and to achieve a world without nuclear weapons; furthermore, stresses the need for further transatlantic cooperation on a range of international issues, such as maritime security, pandemic response and in the areas of outer space and the fight against terrorism;
Amendment 205 #
2020/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 a (new)
Paragraph 11 a (new)
Amendment 206 #
2020/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 b (new)
Paragraph 11 b (new)
11b. Urges the EU and NATO to work together for a more systematic implementation of UNSCR 1325 on Women, Peace and Security (WPS) and for foreseeing the development of joint education and training activities;
Amendment 207 #
2020/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 c (new)
Paragraph 11 c (new)
11c. Notes that the Alliance declared space an operational domain; calls on the EU and NATO to strengthen their cooperation on their respective space policies, ensuring mutual benefits in the areas of communication, navigation and intelligence; underlines the need for the EU and NATO to strive to prevent the weaponisation of space;
Amendment 211 #
2020/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Recognises the important cooperation between the EU and NATO in the Western Balkans, notably through the EUFOR Althea mission, which operation HQ is located at SHAPE thanks to the Berlin Plus Arrangement, as well as through cooperation between EULEX and KFOR in Kosovo; recalls Operation Concordia as the first EU operation with NATO assets; welcomes NATO’s continued Open Door Policy and reminds that Montenegro and the Republic of North Macedonia have in recent years joined NATO;
Amendment 221 #
2020/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
12a. Calls on the EU, NATO and the UN to further explore opportunities for closer cooperation in crisis management, humanitarian actions, peacekeeping and partners’ capacity-building especially on joint areas of operation;
Amendment 237 #
2020/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Expresses its utmost concern regarding the continuous revisionist policies pursued by Russia under President Putin; underscores the need for both NATO and the EU to remain vigilant and to adequatelyhave a consistent proactive strategy and to respond to acts of aggression and provocation by Russia, such as, in particular, its illegitimate and illegal annexation of Crimea in 2014, with unity, determination, coherence and full respect to international law; regrets President Putin’s evident rejection of dialogue, and considers Russia’s continued aggressive actions and increased military assertiveness as a threat to Euro- Atlantic security and stability; stresses the urgency for the EU and for NATO to engage with Russia in arms control negotiations and risk reduction measures; expresses deep concern for the build-up of Russian troops on the border with Ukraine and in illegally annexed Crimea;
Amendment 264 #
2020/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Recognises that the growing influence, assertiveness and military rise of China, including its increased presence in third countries, need to be met with a coordinated transatlantic strategy; expresses its serious concern regarding the policies pursued by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) authorities when it comes to, among other things, the suppression of democracy in Hong Kong, the treatment of the Uyghurs in Xinjiang, threats towards Taiwan or aggressive policies and actions in the South China Sea; further points to the relevance of the fact that China, as a non-democratic regime, has entered into systemic competition with the transatlantic partnership by undermining the rules-based international order, and in turn is attempting to reshape it according to the CCP’s own values and interestsgrowing tensions in the Indo-Pacific region, which represent a threat to the regional and global stability;
Amendment 277 #
2020/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Expresses serious concern that adversaries and competitors of the transatlantic partnership and other unreliable actors are not only using military but also political and economic tools to undermine our societies and democracies; points to the significant security and economic challenges posed by hybrid threats, cyber attacks, foreign interferences and disinformation campaigns, which in some cases constitute an attack against the very nature of our democracies and societies; condemns recent increased cases of cyber attacks and espionage of state and non-state actors against EU and NATO members in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, including targeting the healthcare sector;
Amendment 286 #
2020/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Emphasises that both the EU and NATO should further strengthen their capabilities to prevent, deter and respond to hybrid and cyber attacks; suggests the creation of a joint cyber threat information hub, as well as a joint task force for cyber security; calls for strong coordination among the European Union Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA) and the NATO Cooperative Cyber Defence Centre of Excellence in this respect; calls for increased EU-NATO coordination as regards establishing collective attribution for malicious cyber incidents;
Amendment 295 #
2020/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)
Paragraph 16 a (new)
16a. Calls on the EU and NATO to take the lead in global efforts to set up a comprehensive regulatory framework for the development and ethical use of AI- enabled weapons; insists that the EU and NATO should actively take part in international negotiations on a legally binding instrument that would prohibit fully autonomous weapons;
Amendment 313 #
2020/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Recognises the unprecedented challenge to global peace, prosperity, security and stability posed by climate change as a ‘threat and crisis multiplier’; calls for enhanced EU- NATO dialogue onset of actions and cooperation to counter climate change and its multifaceted consequences for international security; stresses that the Arctic shall remain an area of peaceful cooperation and warns against increased militarisation;
Amendment 333 #
2020/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Is convinced that the Member States must increase their efforts to meet the EU level of ambition and improve the EU’s ability to act with a more capable, deployable, interoperable and sustainable set of military capabilities and forces, which would give the EU the capacity to contribute more equitabdecisively to transatlantic security, while enableing it to achievedvance towards strategic autonomy, and further pave the way to progressively frame a European Defence Union (EDU) in line with Article 42 of the TEU; stresses that strategic autonomy strengthens transatlantic security, and by no means aims to decouple from or weaken NATO; underlines at the same time that EU strategic autonomy not only entails defence capability development but also the institutional capacity enabling the EU to act, where possible with partners, and independently if necessary; believes that these increased European militarycapability development efforts will allow the EU to take greater responsibility for European security and global stability, and to better promote common EU-NATO interests and values, in particular in the European neighbourhood;
Amendment 360 #
2020/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Believes that as a long-term objective, the European allies in NATO, supported where possible by non-NATO European partners, as appropriate, should aim to account for half of the forces and capabilities derived under the NDPP in orderin the need to ensure adequate long- term burden-sharing inside the alliance; underlines that the transatlantic partnership can only be successful if all Member States fulfil their commitments and engage in mutual support; underlinerecalls NATO’s 2 % goal, set at the 2014 NATO Summit in Wales;
Amendment 398 #
2020/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Welcomes the extension of the New START Treaty, which gives both signatories additional time to pursue negotiations with a view to agreeing on a new arms control instrument; calls on the EU and NATO to strive for the involvement of other states; recalls the need to increase cooperation and investment in the key area of air and missile defence; regrets the recent withdrawals from the Treaty on Open Skies;
Amendment 417 #
2020/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25 a (new)
Paragraph 25 a (new)
25a. Notes that NATO remains a unique forum for defence cooperation between the EU and its former Member the UK; underlines the need to use NATO as a platform to ensure strong security and defence cooperation with the UK;
Amendment 445 #
2020/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29 a (new)
Paragraph 29 a (new)
29a. Underlines the need to reinforce Allies' unity, solidarity and cohesion; acknowledges serious disputes between Allies in the Eastern Mediterranean; welcomes the establishment of NATO's de-escalation mechanism; stresses the importance of further trust-building measures based on dialogue and mutual respect; regrets that Turkey, despite being a strategically important neighbour and a NATO member, acted inconsistent with international law, relevant UN resolutions and NATO Treaty; calls on Turkey to avoid aggressive acts, destabilising attitude and provocative discourse, while assuming more coherency and full alignment with its foreign, security and other policy obligations as EU candidate country and NATO member;
Amendment 458 #
2020/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30 a (new)
Paragraph 30 a (new)
30a. Takes note of the announced decision to withdraw troops from the Resolute Support Mission in Afghanistan; calls to continue closely monitoring the situation in the country and reiterates the importance of peace, stability and security with a wider impact on the region;
Amendment 464 #
2020/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 31
Paragraph 31
31. Recalls the importance of proactive, effective and clear communication, both in the EU and externally, and calls for closer cooperation between the respective staff of NATO and the EU on strategic communication, especially with regard to countering disinformation and foreign interferences from third country state and non-state actors; calls for strong cooperation against disinformation campaigns which target EU and NATO in strategically important areas such as the Western Balkans and Eastern Partnership countries;
Amendment 472 #
2020/2257(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32
Paragraph 32
32. Underlines the importance of parliamentary diplomacy and reiterates its previous calls for an enhanced role for the NATO Parliamentary Assembly (PA); recommendsquests the NATO PA Standing Committee that the status of the European Parliament’s delegation in the NATO PA be upgraded to full status, reflecting the importance of EU-NATO cooperation;
Amendment 2 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 18 a (new)
Citation 18 a (new)
— having regard to the Council conclusions on the EU’s Cybersecurity Strategy for the Digital Decade of 9 March 2021,
Amendment 5 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 18 b (new)
Citation 18 b (new)
— having regard to the UN Agenda for Disarmament - Securing our Common Future,
Amendment 6 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 18 c (new)
Citation 18 c (new)
— having regards to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, in particular to SDG 16, aiming at the promotion of peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development,
Amendment 7 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 18 d (new)
Citation 18 d (new)
— having regard to the European Court of Auditors Review No 09/2019 on European Defence,
Amendment 10 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital -A (new)
Recital -A (new)
-A. whereas the European Union is committed to the application of existing international law in cyberspace, in particular the UN Charter which calls on states to settle international disputes by peaceful means and to refrain in their international relations from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state, or in any other manner inconsistent with the Purposes of the United Nations”;
Amendment 12 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas the EU and its Member States must further strengthen cyber resilience and develop common and robust cyber security and defence capabilities and cooperation in order to respond to lasting security challenges;
Amendment 13 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas in recent years, we have seen continuous growth in malicious cyber operations conducted by state and non-state actoragainst the EU and its Member States, conducted by state and non-state actors, including attacks to disrupt critical infrastructure such as energy, transportation or healthcare; as well as numerous cyber-enabled foreign interferences, which have blurred the limit between peace and hostilities;
Amendment 20 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas conflicts can take place in all physical (land, air, sea and space) and virtual (cyber) domains, and may be amplified throughyberspace is now recognized as a domain of operation; whereas the European Union’s security environment becomes more complex due to the use of elements of hybrid warfare, proxy wars, offensive and defensive use of cyber capabilities and strategic attacks to disrupt critical infrastructure;
Amendment 25 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas the European External Action Service (EEAS), the European Commission and European Defence Agency (EDA) should support Member States in coordinating and stepping up their efforts to deliver cyber defence capabilities and technologies, addressing all aspects of capability development, including doctrine, leadership, organisation, personnel, training, industry, technology, infrastructure, logistics and, interoperability and resources;
Amendment 33 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas the increasing integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into defence forces’ offensive cyber capabilities (cyber- physical systems, including the communication and data links between vehicles in a networked system) may lead to vulnerabilities to electronic warfare attacks such as jamming, spoofing or hacking;
Amendment 34 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F a (new)
Recital F a (new)
F a. whereas the European Court of Auditors pointed to capability gaps in the area of ICT technologies, cyber warfare and AI;
Amendment 39 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas raising the level of cyber security withinand cyber defence of the EU is a necessary corollary to the success of Europe’s digital and geopolitical ambitions;
Amendment 42 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G a (new)
Recital G a (new)
G a. whereas the June 2017 Council Conclusions establishing a Framework for a Joint EU Diplomatic Response to Malicious Cyber Activities (“Cyber Diplomacy Toolbox”) showed the added value of a joint EU diplomatic response to malicious cyber activities;
Amendment 46 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H
Recital H
H. whereas the Council decided for the first time on 30 July 2020 to impose restrictive measures against individuals and, entities and bodies responsible for or involved in various cyber-attacks in order to better prevent, discourage, deter and respond to malicious behavior in cyberspace; whereas the legal framework for targeted restrictive measures against cyber-attackhe EU cyber sanctions regimes was adopted in May 2019;
Amendment 48 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. whereas EU-NATO cooperation has increased across multiple fields, including cyber defencesecurity and defence, inline with the 2016 EU-NATO Joint Declaration has increased over the past years;
Amendment 59 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Underlines that a common cyber defence policy and a substantial cyber defence capabilityies are core elements for the development of the European Defence Union; stresses the urgent need to strengthen EU and the Member State cyber defence capabilities;
Amendment 68 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Recalls that the borderless nature of cyber space ands well as the substantial number of cyber-attacks make them a threat requiring intensified EU-NATO cooperation andand increasing complexity of cyber-attacks require a coordinated Union- level response, including common Member States support capabilities, as well as intensified international cooperation, among them between the EU and NATO;
Amendment 72 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Welcomes the CDPF as a tool to support the development of EU Member States cyber defence capabilities; Stresses that the review of the Cyber Defence Policy Framework (CDPF) should enhance coordination between EU actors, notably the EEAS, the EU Military Staff, the European Commission, the European Defence Agency (EDA)institutions, agencies and bodies, between and with Member States, as well as with the European Parliament, in order to ensure the updated CDPF achieves the EU’s cyber defence objectives;
Amendment 76 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Calls on the EEAS and the European Commission, in cooperation with the Member States, to further develop a coherent IT security policy to strengthen cyber defence coordination; urges a cooperation strategy withnotes that the EU’s Computer Emergency Response Teams (CERT-EU) tois responsible for the protection of networks used by all EU institutions, bodies and agencies, in close cooperation with CIOs in the respective entities; calls on the European Parliament to ensure its participation in CERT-EU results to ensured, which would guarantee a level of IT security that will allow it to receive all the necessary classified and non-classified information to carry out its responsibilities under the Treaties, including as a result of the current process to replace the 2002 Inter-Institutional Agreement on access to information in the area of security and defence; calls on the EEAS to ensure the adequate levels of cybersecurity for the EEAS assets, premises and activities, including the headquarters, EU delegations and CSDP missions and operations;
Amendment 83 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Notes the 2018 CDPF’s objective to setup an EU Military CERT-Network; calls on the EU Member States to significantly increase classified information sharing, to develop a European rapid and secure network to counter cyber-attacks; acknowledges the launch of the information sharing and situational awareness platform - Cyber Crises Liaison Organisation Network (CyCLONe) on 29 September 2020;
Amendment 90 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Recalls that the 2018 EU Capability Development Priorities (CDP) made cyber defence a key priorityreflected on the need to develop full-spectrum capabilities and made cyber defence capabilities as a key priority; reminds that the CDP underlined that cyber situational awareness technologies and defensive cyber technologies are essential to counter security threats to the EU and Member States’ command and control structures; welcomes the EDA’s projects to improve overall EU Member States efforts in this field; takes note of the EDA’s CyDRE project, which should develop an enterprise architecture for cyberspace operations, including scope, functionalities and requirements, based upon national and EU legislation;
Amendment 97 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. NReminds that the EDIDP included intelligence, secured communication and cyber-defence in its work programmes; particularly welcomes the call for Easily deployable and interconnected cyber toolbox for defence; notes that the European Defence Fund (EDF), will also support strengthening resilience, and improve preparedness, responsiveness and cooperation in the cyber domain;
Amendment 105 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Welcomes the progress achieved byincreased cooperation among Member States in the domain of cyber defence and C4ISR in the framework of the Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO), including Cyber Rapid Response Teams and Mutual Assistance in Cybersecurity project; recalls that PESCO offers excellent ways to speed up cyber security initiatives, such as through the Cyber Threats and Incident Response Information Sharing Platform and Cyber and Information Domain Coordination Centre;
Amendment 108 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 a (new)
Paragraph 9 a (new)
9 a. Recalls that the successful implementation of EU missions and operations is increasingly dependent on uninterrupted access to a secure cyberspace, and thus requires robust and resilient cyber operational capabilities, as well as adequate responses to attacks against military installations, missions and operations;
Amendment 112 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Emphasises that in line with the Civilian CSDP Compact, civilian CSDP must be cyber resilient and support third countries,’ cyber capacity-building including through Monitoring, Mentoring, and Advice; recommends to explore options to foster the cyber capability- building of our partners such as extending the mandate of EU Training Missions to also comprise cyber defence aspects or to launch Civilian cyber missions;
Amendment 118 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Welcomes the Council’s June 2019 framework, which allows targeted restrictive measures to deter and respond to cyber-attacks that constitute a threat to the EU or its Member States, including cyber- attacks against third countries or international organisations; welcomes the imposition of such restrictive measures in July 2020 and October 2020 as a credible step in strengthenimplementing the EU’s cyber diplomacy toolbox and strengthening EU’s cyber deterrence posture;
Amendment 121 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 a (new)
Paragraph 11 a (new)
11 a. Welcomes the plans to establish EU cyber intelligence working group within EU intelligence and Situation Centre (INTCEN) to advance strategic intelligence cooperation on cyber threats;
Amendment 124 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. WRecalls that given the dual nature of cybertechnologies, secured civilian products and services are key to the military and thus contributes to better cyber defence; therefore welcomes the work led by ENISA involving the Member States and interested stakeholders to provide the EU with certification schemes for ICT products, services and processes in order to raise the overall level of cybersecurity within the digital single market; stresses the EU’s pivotal pioneering role in developing standards that shape the cybersecurity landscape, contribute to fair competition within the EU and on the global stage, and react to extraterritorial measures and security risks from third countries;
Amendment 127 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
12 a. Welcomes the progress made by some EU Members States in establishing cyber commands within their military;
Amendment 135 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Insists that the Strategic Compass, should deepen thecontribute to creating a common strategic culture in the cyber domain and remove any duplication of capabilities and mandates; stresses that it is essential to overcome the current fragmentation and complexity of the overall cyber architecture within the EU;
Amendment 151 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Stresses that fragmentation is accompanied by serious concerns over resources and staff at the EU level; urges the VP/HR and/or the Member Statesthe need to increase financial and personnel resources, in particular cyber intelligence analysts and experts in cyber forensics; calls for further funding for CERT-EU and the creation of an EU so support Member States in establishing and strengthening Security oOperations centre Centres (SOCs) in order to build a network of SOCs across the EU;
Amendment 154 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 a (new)
Paragraph 15 a (new)
15 a. Notes the important training work undertaken by the European Security and Defence College in the cyber defence field, and welcomes in this respect the establishment of the Cyber Education, Training, Evaluation and Exercise (ETEE) Platform, aiming at addressing cyber security and defence training among the civilian and military personnel as well as establishing the necessary harmonization and standardization in cyber related training; stresses that ESDC should benefit from structural Union funding to be able to enhance its contribution to foster the EU cyber defence skills, especially given the increased need for top level cyber experts;
Amendment 156 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 b (new)
Paragraph 15 b (new)
15 b. Underlines the need for EU cyber defence policies to incorporate gender considerations and to be ambitious in filling the gender gap among cyber defence professionals, notably through active gender-inclusive policies and tailored training programmes for women;
Amendment 158 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Recalls that cyber defence has bothrequires strong military and civilian dimensions; calls on the VP/HR, therefore,cooperation, synergies and coherence of instruments; therefore calls on the EU Commission to develop an integrated policy approach and close cooperation between the Military CEComputer Security Incident Response Teams CSIRT-s Network and CERT-EUthe foreseen Military CERT-Network;
Amendment 162 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)
Paragraph 16 a (new)
16 a. Stresses that cyber defence capabilities are crucial for ensuring secure and resilient information exchange and protection between intelligence EU and MS entities and SatCen in both security from space (GEOINT)and in space (SST) in order to preserve and enhance the required strategic autonomy on situational awareness at EU level.
Amendment 176 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Recalls that improving cyber defence capabilities also requires, given their often dual-use nature, civilian network and information security expertise; notes the importance of promoting civil-military cooperation; welcomes the proposed revision of the Directive on security of network and information systems (NIS) and of current EU law, seeking to protect critical infrastructures, enhance supply chain security and the inclusion of regulated actors in the digital ecosystem;
Amendment 181 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Welcomes the Commission’s Action Plan Oon Synergies between civil, defence and space industries, and recalls the close interdependence of these three sectors infor cyber defence; notes that, differently from other military domains, cyber space is mainly owned by commercial entities based mostly outside the EU, which leads to industrial and technological dependencies on third parties; notes the important work conducted by EU SatCen and underlines that the Union must have adequate resources in the fields of space imagery and intelligence-gathering, stressesthat EU SatCen should benefit from structural Union funding to be able to maintain its contributions to the Union’s actions; underlines the need fort he EU to strive to prevent the weaponization of space; strongly believes that the EU needs to increase its technological sovereignty and innovation, supporting research and technology investing in the ethical use of new technologies in security and defence such as alike Artificial iIntelligence (AI) and quantum computing; stresses however that the military use of AI must respect international Human Rights law and international humanitarian law, and that the EU shall take the lead in promoting a global AI regulatory framework rooted in democratic values and a human-in-the- loop approach;
Amendment 208 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Considers thate EU-NATO cyber cooperation is crucial, as itwhich could enables and stroengthen formal collective attribution and thus the imposition of restrictive sanctions; notes that functioningof cyber malicious incidents and consequently the imposition of restrictive sanctions and measures; notes that effective cyber deterrence would be achieved if adversaries weperpetrators are aware of the catalogue of possible countermeasures (based on the severity, /scale, and /target of the cyber- attacks); calls on Member States to fully share evidence and intelligence in order to feed into the establishment of cyber sanction lists;
Amendment 231 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Calls for further synchronisation of EU-NATO cooperation, notably on cyber defence interoperability requirements, by looking for possible complementarities, avoiding duplication and acknowledging their respective responsibilities; welcomes the progress made in the EU-NATO cooperation in the cyber defence field, notably on the exchanges of concepts and doctrines, on cross participation in cyber exercices and on cross-briefings notably on the cyber dimension of crisis managements;
Amendment 236 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24 a (new)
Paragraph 24 a (new)
24 a. Underlines the important to develop effective international cooperation tools to support the strengthening of partners’ cyber capacity building, as well as to develop and promote confidence-building measures;
Amendment 238 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24 b (new)
Paragraph 24 b (new)
24 b. Encourages the further promotion of the OSCE confidence-building measures for cyberspace;
Amendment 242 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
25. Calls for closer coordination on cyber defence between Member States, the EU institutions, NATO, the United States and other strategic partnN, OSCE, other strategic partners and partnership countries, and for inclusive cooperation with civil society and stakeholders; underlines the urgent need for implementing the widely- recognised international normative framework for responsible state behaviour in cyberspace;
Amendment 248 #
2020/2256(INI)
26. CEmphasizes the need to ensure peace and stability in the cyberspace; calls on all Member States and the EU to show leadership during discussions and initiatives under the auspices of the UN to help truly promotenited Nations (UN) to help truly advance accountability, adherence to emerging norms, prevention of the misuse of digital technologies and responsible state behaviour in cyber space, building on the consensus reports of the UN GGEroup of Governmental Experts endorsed by the UN General Assembly; encourages the UN to foster dialogue among States, researchers, academics, civil society organisations, humanitarian actors and the private sector so as to have inclusive policymaking processes on new international provisions; calls for all existing multilateral efforts to be accelerated so that normative and regulatory frameworks are not outpaced by technological development and new methods of warfare. calls for global negotiations to put in place an AI arms control regime; calls for UN peacekeeping missions to be reinforced with cyber defence capacities in line with the effective implementation of their mandates;
Amendment 253 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26 a (new)
Paragraph 26 a (new)
26 a. Recalls its position on a ban on development, production and use of fully autonomous weapons enabling strikes to be carried out without meaningful human intervention; calls on the HR/VP, the Member States and the European Council to adopt a common position on autonomous weapons system, that ensures meaningful human control over the critical functions of weapons systems; demands the start of international negotiations on a legally binding instrument that would prohibits fully autonomous weapons;
Amendment 256 #
2020/2256(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26 b (new)
Paragraph 26 b (new)
26 b. Underlines the importance of cooperation with National Parliaments in order to exchange best practices of the area of cyber defence;
Amendment 9 #
2020/2126(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Welcomes the CONT study entitled ‘The Largest 50 Beneficiaries in each EU Member State of CAP and Cohesion Funds’ and emphasises the importance of consolidating and harmonising EU reporting systems and create interoperability among them; stresses also that reporting systems for CAP and cohesion policy funds should contain information on final beneficiaries;
Amendment 14 #
2020/2126(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes the EU-wide definition of active farmers in the new CAP; emphasises, however, the lack of progress in the fight against oligarch structures; such as the lack of information and transparency on ultimate beneficiaries and keeping up the voluntary nature of capping which hinders the fairer distribution of agricultural funds;
Amendment 24 #
2020/2126(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. ERegrets that in one of the main aims of the CAP namely to benefit and support those working the land there is still significant room for improvement, therefore in order to utilise fully the current limited opportunities encourages the Member States to use the different redistributive tools for a fairer distribution of funds and to apply the capping provisions on direct payments;
Amendment 35 #
2020/2126(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Calls for the mandatoNotes the voluntary use of t he ARACHNE system by Member States, but underlines that this is not yet sufficient, calls for the preparation by the Commission and the mandatory use by Member States of a data mining system in order to achieve more transparency on the beneficiaries of CAP funds and where such funds end up, as well as the mandatory use of the Early Detection and Exclusion System for CAP funds in an effort to enhance transparency on the use of taxpayers’ money and to reinforce the protection of the Union’s financial interest; underlines the importance the data mining approach for the 1st pillar as well;
Amendment 49 #
2020/2126(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6 a. Recognises the work of OLAF and calls for increased efforts and vigilance in relation to the cases of conflict of interest and against oligarch structures, especially in certain Member States where these cases are more often identified; emphasises that these kind of misuses are to the detriment of the taxpayers’ money and EU’s financial interest;
Amendment 68 #
2020/2126(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Expresses its concern at the cases of high-level conflicts of interest and land- grabbing by oligarchs, which are possibly being facilitated by governments and public authorities; calls for extra scrutiny towards Member States by the Commission to this end; urges the Commission and Member states to immediately step up measures against land-grabbing, irregular tenders or other allocation procedures and misconduct of EU-money especially when national authorities and governments are involved;
Amendment 72 #
2020/2126(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. EUrges the Commission to swiftly address the severe violations of the principle of rule of law in some member states that are seriously jeopardising the fair, legal and impartial distribution of EU funds, emphasises the clear link between respecting the rule of law and the sound implementation of CAP funds; urges the Commission to be extra vigilant on rule of law matters and to activate its proportionate sanction system if needed with regard to EU funds;
Amendment 77 #
2020/2126(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Encourages the harmonisation of cadastral systems at EU level and support interoperability with the Land Parcel Identification System (LPIS) in order to achieve transparency on ultimate beneficial users and often hidden parent- companies.
Amendment 11 #
2020/2117(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Stresses that, against the background of a sharp economic downturn, EU agri-food trade has remarkably remained broadly stable over the course of 2020, for both exports and imports, thanks in large part to the best efforts of farmers and SMEs in the agri-food sector; highlights that the Union’s yearly agri-food trade surplus exceeded EUR 60 billion; recalls in this context that agriculture and agri-food are key drivers for EU exports and economic recovery;
Amendment 18 #
2020/2117(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Emphasises the remarkablenoteworthy resilience of European agriculture; underlines its socio-economic importance as well as the high number of companies and jobs involved; stresses the importance of Europe’s agri-food production for the vitality and development of its rural areas; underlines that the success of European agriculture is strictly connected with the Common Agriculture Policy, that through the years has been the instrument to improve farmers' condition and guarantee food security in the EU;
Amendment 37 #
2020/2117(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Recalls, however, that some European agri-food markets are in a highly vulnerable situation after a significant loss in sales, threatening their long-term sustainability; notes that the pandemic has had a significant impact on the wine, spirit and liqueur sectors, among others, given the drop in exports in terms of both volume and value; calls for further support, including, in particular, the extension of the extraordinary measures for the wine sector, to reactivate these exports and regain market share;
Amendment 64 #
2020/2117(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Stresses that any EU economic stimulus plans and export support measures need to consider agriculture in view of the importance and diversity of the sector; also stresses that the review and overhaul of EU trade policy, as well as the announced reform of the World Trade Organization, must be an opportunity to better defend the European agricultural model and farmers’ interests; reiterates firmly that agriculture and agri-food products entering the European market must fully comply with EU rules and standards and to this extent frequent and thorough controls should be put in place to guarantee this compliance from products from third countries;
Amendment 74 #
2020/2117(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4 a. underlines that the crisis following the Covid-19 pandemic should be an opportunity to rethink the EU trade policy especially for what concerns its environmental impact and to put EU agriculture concerns, especially of the most vulnerable sectors, as high priorities in the trading negotiations with third partners; is convinced that the EU should use its position as a major global player to set the benchmark and direct international standards for sustainable food systems, based on respect for human and labour rights, fair competition, the precautionary principle, environmental protection and animal welfare in accordance with World Trade Organization (WTO) rules;
Amendment 83 #
2020/2117(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 b (new)
Paragraph 4 b (new)
4 b. Stresses that the EU, in line with its Green Deal principles, should not import products coming from deforested areas or with lower environmental standards; recalls therefore the need to have a full transparent supply chain to guarantee the respect of EU standards as well as a high level information for the consumers;
Amendment 86 #
2020/2117(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 c (new)
Paragraph 4 c (new)
Amendment 9 #
2020/2113(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas the broader Middle East region referred to in this report encompasses the area between the Mediterranean Sea and the Persian Gulf; whereas this region is strategic for the European Union given its geographical position and common ties; whereas the stability and security of Europe and the broader Middle East region are interdependent, and whereas the situation in the region is currently characterised by ongoing conflicts with a strong regional and extra-regional dimensions;
Amendment 45 #
2020/2113(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas the summit of 27 to 28 March 2022 between Israel, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Egypt and Morocco aiming to create a security alliance, which was also attended by the US Secretary of State, paved the way for a new regional approach to security and confirmed these countries’ intention to divide the regforge a closer relationship based on shared threat perceptions into blocks the region;
Amendment 58 #
2020/2113(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas EU Member States continue to export of arms to countries in the region despite ongoing conflicts and reports of internal repressiono not always follow the EU Common Position 2008/944/CFSP, which defines common rules governing control of exports of military technology and equipment;
Amendment 62 #
2020/2113(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas countries in the region are key trading partners for the EU and there are important economic ties between the two sides; whereas the ongoing global energy crisis, exacerbated by the Russian aggression in Ukraine, has led to increased contact with Qatarthe Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and other countries in the region on the import of energy resources into the EU; whereas there is potential for stronger cooperation in other areas such as the green transition, better governance and human rights; whereas the Joint Communication on Strategic Partnership with the Gulf outlined multiple areas of common interests between the EU, GCC and other Gulf countries;
Amendment 75 #
2020/2113(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas problems associated with governance and breaches of the rule of law in the region are a significant source of instability; whereas the imprisonment or torture of political opposition figures and social activists across the region is paving the way for further conflict; whereas the use of death penalty remains prolific in the region, particularly in countries like Saudi Arabia and Iran;
Amendment 85 #
2020/2113(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H a (new)
Recital H a (new)
H a. whereas the financial situation of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) is worsening, and where is an overwhelming political support for the Agency, it is not adequately matched by sufficient funding from the international community;
Amendment 101 #
2020/2113(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Highlights that the current situation in the broader Middle East region is characterised by ongoing conflicts with a regional dimension; stresses that the presence of foreign forces in these conflicts is contributing to maintaining them and to further regional inany involvement of the EU Member State or other external parties must be aimed at resolving the conflicts and increasing security and stability; notes that as well as ongoing conflicts, there are latent ones which the EU must take into consideration when defining its long-term strategy to tackle the underlying causes of instability in the region;
Amendment 112 #
2020/2113(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Underlines that the EU has its own interests in the region, as; highlights that EU security is interdependent with security in the Middle East; highlights that and EU funding instruments directed at the region should make an important contribution to stability and prosperity;
Amendment 125 #
2020/2113(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Highlights the important role the EU could play in facilitating dialogue between regional stakeholders, which is key to fostering stability; commends, in this sense, the efforts of regional actors, such as Iraq, Kuwait, Oman and Qatar, to promote constructive intra-regional diplomatic engagement, including through such initiatives as Baghdad Conference for Cooperation and Partnership of 2021 and normalization talks between Iran and Saudi Arabia facilitated by Iraq; calls for deepened engagement with Qatar particularly on the situation in Afghanistan, leveraging the contacts it forged with the de-facto Taliban authorities in Afghanistan, notably with the aim to reverse some of the draconian restrictions imposed by the Taliban on women, such as denial of their right to education and introduction of highly restrictive compulsory dress code; calls, therefore, for cooperation with the regional supranational organisations to be enhanced;
Amendment 135 #
2020/2113(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4 a. Welcomes the ambition of the Joint Communication on Strategic Partnership with the Gulf to promote wide-ranging cooperation with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries in green transition, digitalization, regional security, gender equality, trade, human rights, people-to-people contacts and other areas; regrets, however, that the scope of the Communication was limited to the GCC countries, excluding Iran and Iraq, and thus failing to develop policies aimed at overcoming the existing lack of trust between different stakeholders in the Gulf; considers that the EU should support the issue-oriented cooperation between regional actors on common challenges, such as climate change, natural disasters, trade, Sustainable Development Goals, among others, as means of confidence-building in the region;
Amendment 159 #
2020/2113(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5 a. Recognizes the essential and stabilizing role played by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) in a difficult context of growing humanitarian and development needs; asks to increase and promote worldwide support towards the Agency in order to ensure the fulfilment of its mandate;
Amendment 164 #
2020/2113(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Calls on the Member States to align their arms export policies with the provisions of Council Common Position 2008/944/CFSP and to adopt a strict application of all criteria, , including by halting arms exports when these criteria are not met;
Amendment 179 #
2020/2113(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Calls on the countries in the region to refrain from exporting arms or combatants or intervening militarily in other countries, as such interventions are some of the main causes of regional destabilisation; firmly opposes the use of drones inexpress serious concern over extrajudicial and extraterritorial killings of terror suspects and demands a ban on the use of drones for this purpose; highlights in particular the dangers associated with the use of autonomous and remotely operated systems for such operations;
Amendment 185 #
2020/2113(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7 a. Takes note of an UN-mediated truce announcement in Yemen between the Saudi Arabia-led coalition and Houthi rebels; insists that the truce should be the first step to prepare the ground for credible peace talks between the Yemeni parties that should lead to an end of the war and one of the world’s greatest humanitarian disasters through an inclusive, Yemeni-led political settlement; stresses that the conflict cannot be truly solved without the accountability for the alleged war crimes committed by Saudi Arabia, UAE and their allies, and Houthi rebels;
Amendment 191 #
2020/2113(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. EWelcomes the EU’s commitment establishing a WMD-free zone in the Middle East, in accordance with the resolution on the Middle East of the 1995 Review and Extension Conference of the Parties to the Treaty on the Non- Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, and the EU’s promotion of confidence- building measures in support of this process in a complete, verifiable and irreversible manner; expresses deep concern about a potential nuclear race in the region and calls on the EU to activate all diplomatic efforts to avoid it; calls on Israel to ratifynotes that Israel, as a non-party to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, has long maintained ambiguity regarding its nuclear status;
Amendment 202 #
2020/2113(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Welcomes the negotiations on the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action as a necessary step towards achieving regional stability and creating conditions for further talks on a new, inclusive regional security architecture; calls on the US and Iran to pursue meaningful negotiations with a view to returning to compliance with the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action as the only viable way of solving the remaining safeguards issues related to Iran’s nuclear activities; stresses that the restoration of the JCPOA would provide a foundation for the EU’s renewed engagement with Iran, to complement the existing EU’s partnerships and relations in the region;
Amendment 217 #
2020/2113(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Underlines the need to diversify the EU’s sources of energy and calls foron the EEAS and the Commission to conduct an assessment of the security implications of any agreement to import oil, gas or hydrogen into the EU;
Amendment 223 #
2020/2113(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Highlights the need to combat the funding of terrorist organisations and activities; stresses that the EU must help to stop money laundering and stem illicit financial flows by adopting a clear strategy to address the shortcomings in controlling these kind of funds by several states in the region; notes that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) were recently added to the list of countries under increased monitoring (grey list) of the Financial Action Task Force, as a "jurisdiction with strategic deficiencies" in preventing money laundering and financing of terrorism; highlights that, in line with previous practice and the Commission's methodology, all countries that are under this list are subsequently listed by the EU through a delegated act under Article 9 of the Anti-Money Laundering Directive; notes with concern that, as reported by the press, several Russian oligarchs have flocked to the UAE following the targeted sanctions in the EU; calls on the Commission to propose a delegated act to list the UAE as a high risk third country without further delay;
Amendment 234 #
2020/2113(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Highlights that people-to-people contacts and cooperation in fields such as education, science or culture play an important role in the region and can make a key contribution to regional stability and the bridging of divides both with the EU and among the different states; welcomes, in this context, the proposal presented by the Commission for the visa exemption for the citizens of Kuwait and Qatar; calls on the Commission to swiftly engage in technical discussions to ensure fulfilment of relevant criteria in view of ultimately achieving visa exemption for the citizens of Kuwait, Qatar and Oman;
Amendment 255 #
2020/2113(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 a (new)
Paragraph 14 a (new)
14 a. Is deeply concerned about the steady deterioration of the human rights situation in Saudi Arabia, expressing itself in the execution of 81 men in March 2022, the largest mass execution in years, apparent war crimes in Yemen, continued imprisonment of peaceful dissidents and human rights activists, persistence of the male guardianship over women and discriminatory laws and policies against women, lack of meaningful accountability for the murder of the Washington Post journalist Jamal Khashoggi in which a U.S. intelligence report released in 2021 implicated the Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman personally; reiterates its call to use the EU Global Human Rights Sanctions Regime to introduce targeted sanctions against the Saudi officials involved in grave human rights violations;
Amendment 265 #
2020/2113(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Calls on the authorities in the region to uphold the ban on torture as enshrined in particular in the UN Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, which most of them have signed and ratified; calls for the abolition of the death penalty throughout the region; regrets that the Joint Communication on a Strategic Partnership with the Gulf failed to introduce any human rights safeguards to counter-terrorist cooperation with the Gulf states and insists that any cooperation in this field with the Gulf and Middle East countries be submitted to strict application of such safeguards; notes with deep concern the persistent pattern in the countries of the region to adopt vaguely drafted “anti- terrorism” laws the implementation of which in practice leads to criminalization of legitimate, peaceful dissent;
Amendment 12 #
2020/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 5 a (new)
Citation 5 a (new)
— having regard the Commission guidelines to protect critical European assets and technology in current crisis of 25 March 2020;
Amendment 20 #
2020/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 9 a (new)
Citation 9 a (new)
— having regard to its resolution of 11 December 2018 with recommendations to the Commission on Humanitarian Visas (2018/2271 (INL));
Amendment 21 #
2020/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 10 a (new)
Citation 10 a (new)
— having regard to the European Council, ‘Conclusions of the President of the European Council following the video conference of the members of the European Council’, 23 April 2020,
Amendment 22 #
2020/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 10 b (new)
Citation 10 b (new)
— having regard to the Council of Europe Convention of 2011 on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence (Istanbul Convention);
Amendment 23 #
2020/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 11 a (new)
Citation 11 a (new)
— having regard to the EU guidelines of 8 December 2008 on violence against women and girls and combating all forms of discrimination against them,
Amendment 24 #
2020/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 11 b (new)
Citation 11 b (new)
— having regard to the Venice Commission Code of Good Practice in Electoral Matters;
Amendment 57 #
2020/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
Ba. whereas the global economic decline has had a particularly severe impact on the most vulnerable economies, which rely heavily on commodity exports, external support, tourism and in a longer consequence on foreign policies;
Amendment 64 #
2020/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B b (new)
Recital B b (new)
Bb. whereas the crisis has shown the importance of boosting investment in public services and particularly in health care and social protection, especially the need fora higher degree of self-sufficiency in crucial healthcare and protective equipment; whereas the COVID-19 outbreak has exacerbated the persistent problem of medicine shortages globally, with acute consequences in developing countries;
Amendment 68 #
2020/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B c (new)
Recital B c (new)
Bc. whereas women around the world in violent relationships were forced to be at home, exposed to their abuser for longer periods of time; while domestic violence helplines and shelters across the world are reporting rising calls for help, in a number of countries, domestic violence reports and emergency calls have surged upwards of 25% since social distancing measures were enacted;;
Amendment 71 #
2020/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B d (new)
Recital B d (new)
Bd. whereas narratives stressing geography rather than medical terminology to refer to COVID-19 are stigmatizing, and encourage racist or xenophobic attitudes, including against persons and groups who are forcibly displaced and state less who may be at greater risk during the pandemic;
Amendment 76 #
2020/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Affirms that the global outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic is a game changer in the international environment and a catalyst of change in the global order; stresses the fundamental importance of strengthening the EU internal resilience for an effective global projection of its multilateralist vision, in line with its values and long-term objectives as enshrined in its Global Strategy;
Amendment 82 #
2020/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Calls on the third countries and the EU Member States to mitigate the social effects of the pandemic by revising their national social spending, and to adopt expansionary measures to protect and strengthen their healthcare systems;
Amendment 102 #
2020/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Is concerned about the practice that certain political leaders used the Covid-19 pandemic as a pretext to furnish themselves with excessive powers, and to apply severe and disproportionate measures to restrict human rights and to impede the freedom of expression and the free movement; stresses that responsible political leaders should refrain from such practices and should respect democratic values, the rule of law, human rights and fundamental freedoms;
Amendment 103 #
2020/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Is concerned about rallies protesting against coronavirus restrictions which are taking place in various cities around the world with demonstrators calling the virus a hoax (for example: Melbourne, London, Vancouver, Buenos Aires etc.), as well as, in some cities within the EU; Calls on the local authorities from third countries to launch a proper information and prevention campaign educating its citizens on COVID-19;
Amendment 109 #
2020/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 b (new)
Paragraph 2 b (new)
2b. Is concerned about the growing number of domestic violence against women cases during the pandemic; calls on the remaining CoE countries to ratify the Istanbul Convention and incorporate its provisions in the domestic law systems as soon as possible, in order to prevent further increase of cases;
Amendment 110 #
2020/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 c (new)
Paragraph 2 c (new)
2c. Condemns the abuse by many authoritarian regimes of the measures introduced to fight the COVID-19 in order to consolidate power, further undermine human rights, crack down on opposition and civil society, incite hatred campaigns against minority groups, introduce further measures to curtain their citizens´ rights and freedoms and seek geopolitical advantage abroad;
Amendment 118 #
2020/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Highlights the core aims of the EU, among others, human rights promotion and environmental protection; Calls on the Commission to ensure that the consequences of the COVID-19 do not undermine the implementation of commitments on human rights, environment and climate change already established in the EU Action Plan on Human Rights and Democracy 2020- 2024;
Amendment 123 #
2020/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 b (new)
Paragraph 3 b (new)
3b. Regrets the fact that consequences of the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic disproportionately affect the poorest and persons in the most disadvantaged, marginalised and unprotected social categories, including persons with physical and intellectual disabilities and persons with chronic medical conditions, who already have limited or no access to basic hygiene and treatment for their healthcare needs, and have become even more vulnerable due to the pandemic; whereas the lockdown has had a particularly severe impact on persons with physical and intellectual disabilities; Calls on the third country authorities to ensure sufficient social help to the most venerable;
Amendment 127 #
2020/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 c (new)
Paragraph 3 c (new)
3c. Acknowledges the situation of minorities due to the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic long-standing systemic health and social inequities have put many people from racial and ethnic minority groups at increased risk of getting sick and dying from COVID-19;
Amendment 129 #
2020/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 d (new)
Paragraph 3 d (new)
3d. Condemns all forms of exclusion and discrimination against those infected with COVID-19;
Amendment 130 #
2020/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 e (new)
Paragraph 3 e (new)
3e. Notes that refugees and displaced persons are more vulnerable to the consequences of the crisis, as they are often faced with more precarious living conditions and tend to face greater obstacles in accessing basic health services than local populations; calls, therefore, on authorities of third countries and EU countries to enhance health care access and provide targeted support to refugees and displaced populations, in particular women and children;
Amendment 147 #
2020/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Acknowledges that the pandemic negatively affected global trade mostly by delays in production, as well as the collapse of air traffic - calls on the Member States to uphold the most vital supply channels for the Union as well as to seek for a new perception of supply chains and critical goods;
Amendment 176 #
2020/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Condemns the introduction, with the excuse of COVID-19, of travel restrictions from the EU Schengen area to the United States without previous consultations with the EU; considers this to be another unfriendly gesture of the Trump administration undermining the trans-Atlantic cooperation.
Amendment 179 #
2020/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 b (new)
Paragraph 5 b (new)
5b. Encourages the authorities to incorporate good practices from the Venice Commission Code of Good Practice in Electoral Matters, which also contains the guidelines for organising the elections during the pandemic period;
Amendment 196 #
2020/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Is worried aboutCondemns the decision of the US to withdraw funding from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the general tendency of its President to withdraw the US from the multilateral organisations that were created to establish a rules-based world order;
Amendment 225 #
2020/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Notes the strengthening of the People’s Republic of China’s worldwide diplomatic efforts following the COVID- 19 outbreak, seeking to position itself as the dominant global player; is therefore concerned about the possible shift of power in the global politics related to change of China’s leadership;
Amendment 251 #
2020/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Is concerned about the lack of transparency related to the Chinese reaction to the global outbreak, involving the withholding of information, its poor communication with the World Health Organisation censorship, the suppression of whistle-blowers and human rights activists, and the projection of power in the region;
Amendment 258 #
2020/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10a. Is concerned about the disinformation campaigns launched by Chinese officials in March 2020 campaigns diverting attention from China in relation with COVID-19; therefore welcomes the Commission guidelines on the screening of foreign direct investment;
Amendment 291 #
2020/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Calls on the VP/HR to recognise these concerns and simultaneously create an atmosphere of dialogue, engagement and genuine cooperation, (especially regarding the medical supply chains) based on a new, more assertive strategy in which the EU pushes back when necessary to defend European values; is of the view that, as part of this new strategy, the EU should seek closer collaboration with countries in the region and other democracies;
Amendment 326 #
2020/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 a (new)
Paragraph 14 a (new)
14a. Is concerned about the Constitutional Referendum which took place in Russia allowing Putin to stay in power until 2036 and possible manipulations during the voting due to COVID-19 measures;
Amendment 332 #
Amendment 333 #
2020/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 b (new)
Paragraph 14 b (new)
14b. Is concerned about the latest political situation in Belarus which has an indirect connection with COVID-19 pandemic; Condemns Alexander Lukashenko narrative that has only worsen the pandemic situation in the country by dismiss missing the threat of COVID-19; Calls on the authorities to recognise the virus as a global threat to public health and therefore launch a proper plan to prevent the spread of the virus among the country and to strengthen the healthcare system and provide Belarusian citizens with all relevant and life-saving information about the pandemic in a transparent and inclusive manner;
Amendment 334 #
2020/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 c (new)
Paragraph 14 c (new)
14c. Encourages Member States to facilitate and accelerate the establishment of a humanitarian corridor and procedure for obtaining visas for those who flee Belarus for political reasons or require medical treatment due to incurred violence and COVID-19 pandemic;
Amendment 335 #
2020/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 d (new)
Paragraph 14 d (new)
14d. Welcomes the EU fast reaction and response to the urgent needs of countries in the Eastern Partnership during the COVID-19pandemic mobilising an ambitious support package totalling over 980 million EUR to help tackle the immediate health needs; Reiterates, that a tailor-made COVID-19 response package for Belarus worth over 60mln EUR is being mobilised; nonetheless, calls on the Commission to mobilise even greater resources to support civil society and victims of repression in Belarus.
Amendment 336 #
Amendment 337 #
2020/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 e (new)
Paragraph 14 e (new)
14e. Calls on the President Jair Bolsonaro, to stop the fake narrative about the virus and admit its treat to the public health;
Amendment 338 #
Amendment 339 #
2020/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 f (new)
Paragraph 14 f (new)
14f. Stresses how the pandemic is severely impacting the fragile economies of countries in the Middle East, possibly triggering more instability in an already volatile region; calls for continued EU’s support and funding to improve access to healthcare and alleviate the effects of the pandemic, particularly on vulnerable populations and refugees;
Amendment 340 #
Amendment 341 #
2020/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 g (new)
Paragraph 14 g (new)
14g. Condemns the Egyptian authorities for abusing the restrictions introduced to fight COVID-19 only to widen their crackdown on opposition, civil society and human rights defenders and further increase control over the population.
Amendment 344 #
2020/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Recognises the global security, socio-economic and political risks that could be caused by the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, and is worried about the fact that the EU’s main international counterparts were prepared to use the crisis to unravel the rules-based world order underpinned by multilateral organisations; Underlines that the disinformation conducted by some foreign countries are aimed at undermining the trust to the processes within the EU; Highlights the importance of the flagship project of the European External Action Service’s East StratCom Task Force - EU vs. Disinfo in the fight with disinformation, propaganda and foreign influence on our geopolitical scene; Calls on the appropriate funding for this body during and after the pandemic.
Amendment 362 #
2020/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Stresses that the multilateral rules- based world order is vital for global peace, the rule of law and democracy; believes that a geopolitical EU must play a firmer role in defending it and seek ways to de- escalate tensions between powers; Calls on the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy (VP/HR) to draft the “EU road map on multilateralism” which will be a comprehensive plan for the Union to maintain multilateral relations;
Amendment 415 #
2020/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Underlines the important role of the armed forces during the COVID-19 pandemic and bwelcomes military assistance to civil support operations, notably for the deployment of field hospitals, patient transport, equipment delivery and distribution; Believes that a more in-depth joint operation and coordination of member states’ armed forces within existing frameworks - such as the European Medical Command - or within new frameworks - such as military hospital trains - could lead to greater efficiency and contribute to the EU’s preparedness to fight pandemics; recencourages the setting up of European mechanisms aimed at facilitating the cross-border use of military lognises the need to review the EU’s security and defence strategies to developtical capabilities to face such emergencies, in order to allow for greater coordination, synergy, solidarity and support; supports the EU’s security and defence new initiatives, aiming inter alia at developing the Union’s strategic autonomy, to become better prepared and more resilient to the new and hybrid threats and technologies that have made the nature of warfare less conventional and challenge the traditional role of the military, as well as for a future in which Russia and China and other players, are becoming more assertive; stresses that the future Strategic Compass on security and defence which will present a joint threat assessment should reflect these developments and take account of the broader potential geopolitical implications of COVID-19; believes that, given the new political balance and a potential worsening of the int the budget allocated to EU defence initiatives, notably military mobility, which focus on increasing interoperability would be of great added value in case of future crisis, and the European Defence Fund must meet the EU ambition in the defence area; stresses the need to increase the EU CBRN preparedness ; commands the continuity of the CSDP missions and opernational security environment following COVID-19, the EU defence budgets must not be cus despite the very challenging environment ; suggests to assess the budget, planning and equipment of EU CSDP missions and operations in the light of the COVID-19 lessons learnt;
Amendment 440 #
2020/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 a (new)
Paragraph 19 a (new)
19a. Underlines that closer cooperation in preventing and countering cyberattacks is also essential in these particularly vulnerable times; calls for strong coordination with and support from the European Union Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA) in this respect;
Amendment 452 #
2020/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Calls for the expansion and modernisation of EU strategic communication strategies, based on the promotion of facts about the EU responses and scientific evidence, so that EU action is sufficiently visible both within and beyond the EU; urges the European External Action Service (EEAS) to further strengthen its capacities to proactively counter disinformation, including the creation of a dedicated far- East Strat Com Task Force focused on the disinformation emanating from China, and imposing costs on countries that deliberately spread disinformation to divide and harm the EU and its Member States;
Amendment 509 #
2020/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Underlines the strategic importance of EU engagement and support in its neighbourhood, both in the East and in the South; stresses that the EU must give Western Balkan countries that are not yet part of the EU a fair chance to join the EU, and that the EU must continue its efforts to invest in the region; recalls that EU accession must be conditional on reform commitments and especially on respecting principles of democracy, the rule of law, human rights and fundamental freedoms;
Amendment 581 #
2020/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27
Paragraph 27
27. Is of the opinion that the COVID- 19 crisis has highlighted certain weaknesses of our Union and has shown the urgent need for an effective and efficient Union; believes that the Conference on the Future of Europe will provide a good platform to move forward in constructing more efficient decision making in EU external policies; is therefore determined to start the Conference as soon as possible; Welcomes therefore the President Charles Michel conclusion that ‘it is of utmost importance to increase the strategic autonomy of the Union’;
Amendment 4 #
2020/2085(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 7 a (new)
Citation 7 a (new)
— having regard to the European Commission's Study to support the evaluation of the European Union Strategy for the Protection and Welfare of Animals 2012-2015,
Amendment 7 #
2020/2085(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 7 b (new)
Citation 7 b (new)
— having regard to the Council's conclusions on animal welfare - an integral part of sustainable animal production, adopted on 16th of December, 2019,
Amendment 8 #
2020/2085(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 7 c (new)
Citation 7 c (new)
— having regard to the Council's conclusions on an EU wide animal welfare label, adopted on 7th of December, 2020,
Amendment 35 #
2020/2085(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A a (new)
Recital A a (new)
Aa. whereas consumer's interest in the quality of food purchased is higher than ever;
Amendment 69 #
2020/2085(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E c (new)
Recital E c (new)
Ec. whereas animal health and welfare are key to enabling food safety and security, public health and contributing to high quality standards in the EU;
Amendment 70 #
2020/2085(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E d (new)
Recital E d (new)
Ed. whereas healthy livestock is a key component of achieving sustainable, lower-carbon farming;
Amendment 71 #
2020/2085(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E e (new)
Recital E e (new)
Ee. whereas animal health and welfare are essential elements of any sustainable food system and impacts on animal health and welfare have direct effect on the sustainability of the food system;
Amendment 135 #
2020/2085(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital T a (new)
Recital T a (new)
Ta. whereas consumer interest in the quality of food purchased is higher than ever, and whereas food quality in relation to animal welfare and animal health has an important part to play in achieving the goals of the Farm-to-Fork Strategy;
Amendment 146 #
2020/2085(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital U a (new)
Recital U a (new)
Ua. whereas the uptake of smart farming technologies to continuously monitor animal health and welfare has the potential to ensure effective disease prevention and the implementation of animal welfare standards;
Amendment 207 #
2020/2085(INI)
3a. Is aware of the fact that EFSA produced several opinions on the use of animal-based measures for species not covered by specific legislation (dairy cows and beef cattle) in response to the European Commission mandates; regrets the fact that these animal-based measures issued by EFSA have not been implemented so far; calls therefore on the European Commission to make sure these animal-based measures are updated with the latest scientific knowledge and integrated in the existing specific legislation;
Amendment 208 #
2020/2085(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 b (new)
Paragraph 3 b (new)
3b. Acknowledges that, as noted by scientific bodies, animal-based measures, though desirable, are not always enforceable and objectively verifiable; calls therefore on the European Commission, in the context of the revision of the European animal welfare legislation, to formulate very specific verifiable requirements in light of the latest scientific opinions and of the various production systems across Member States;
Amendment 209 #
2020/2085(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 c (new)
Paragraph 3 c (new)
3c. Welcomes the six objectives set out in the European Union Strategy for the Protection and Welfare of Animals 2012- 2015 and acknowledges that these objectives are still relevant3a; regrets though that the impact of the Strategy was very limited due to the lack of outcome indicators or quantifiable plans for tracking the progress of the Strategy actions, which contributed to a reduced level of accountability for the Strategy’s success; encourages, therefore, the European Commission to prepare a new strategy, with an output-oriented approach, as a proper environment to gather Member States’ representatives, scientific bodies, stakeholders, farmers and NGOs and exchange views and best practices in view of a more uniformed implementation of the animal welfare legislation across Member States, in line with the Green Deal objectives; _________________ 3ahttps://op.europa.eu/en/publication- detail/-/publication/1e912399-3905-11eb- b27b-01aa75ed71a1/language-en/format- PDF/source-178300128
Amendment 215 #
2020/2085(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Amendment 220 #
2020/2085(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 b (new)
Paragraph 4 b (new)
4b. Notes that the current EU legislation on animal welfare is not all inclusive and invites the European Commission to assess the need and impact for specific animal welfare legislation, in light of the latest scientific knowledge, for species not covered, in particular for goats, sheep, pullets, dairy and beef cattle, rabbits, turkeys, broiler and laying hen breeders and farmed fish;
Amendment 283 #
2020/2085(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Proposes enhancing affordable training for farmers and operators in the sector handling animals by adding a specific module for initial and ongoing training with a view to honing skills; takes note of the scientific opinion on the welfare of pigs at slaughter, issued by EFSA in 2020, stating that the majority of the identified hazards originated from actions and behaviours of animal handlers and owners; encourages though Member States to incentivize trainings for farmers and handlers in their National Strategic Plans;
Amendment 325 #
2020/2085(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Applauds the Commission for publishing, on 12 May 2021, strategic guidelines for a more sustainable and competitive EU aquaculture, which pay particular attention to animal welfare, and welcomes the fact that Parliament’s Committee on Fisheries is drafting an own- initiative report on these guidelines; draws the attention to the limited synergy between 2014-2020 Common Fishery Policy and the farmed fish welfare; calls on the European Commission to put forward specific scientifically-sound provisions for farmed fish welfare;
Amendment 347 #
2020/2085(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 a (new)
Paragraph 21 a (new)
21a. Underlines that the rate of non- compliance with the animal welfare legislation is limited and has many limitation, amongst which unenforceable and unquantifiable animal-based indicators; notes that the frequency of inspections across Member States ranges from a minimum of 1% to a maximum of 30%; is concerned that this high variation of the frequency of inspections leads to either non-compliance with the Control Regulation, or to high pressure on farmers; calls therefore on the European Commission and on the Member States to standardise the implementation of the Control Regulation to reduce the variation of the frequency of inspections between Member States and livestock sectors;
Amendment 351 #
2020/2085(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 b (new)
Paragraph 21 b (new)
21b. Takes note of the lack of animal- based welfare indicators for the Council Directive 98/58/EC (general directive), as well as for the Council Directive 2008/120/EC (pigs), the Council Directive 2007/43/ EC (broilers) and the Council Directive 1999/74/EC (laying hens); acknowledges as well the lack of quantifiable requirements for the implementation and monitoring of environmental conditions such as air quality (nitrogen, CO2, dust), lighting (duration, brightness) and minimal noise, which not only affects the animal welfare, but also distorts competition because of the margins of interpretations; calls for the European Commission to set up enforceable and quantifiable such indicators, which should be species- specific and up to date from a scientific point of view;
Amendment 355 #
2020/2085(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 a (new)
Paragraph 22 a (new)
22a. Emphasises the importance of precision livestock farming technologies, including the potential of on-farm animal health and welfare monitoring tools, which help to prevent and better control disease outbreaks on farms;
Amendment 357 #
2020/2085(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 b (new)
Paragraph 22 b (new)
22b. Calls for improved management of veterinary prevention and promotion of high animal health and welfare standards, notably on vaccination and preventing the unnecessary use of antimicrobials, to prevent the spread of zoonotic diseases;
Amendment 367 #
2020/2085(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24 a (new)
Paragraph 24 a (new)
24a. Emphasis the lack of coherence between trade policy and animal welfare policy, which led to an unfair competitive environment for EU producers; calls for reciprocity in bilateral and multilateral trade agreements;
Amendment 3 #
2020/2081(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4
Citation 4
— having regard to the Joint Declarations of the Eastern Partnership Summits of 2009 in Prague, 2011 in Warsaw, 2013 in Vilnius, 2015 in Riga and, 2017 in Brussels and Eastern Partnership leaders' video conference in 2020,
Amendment 118 #
2020/2081(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G a (new)
Recital G a (new)
Ga. whereas it is unacceptable if a Member State does not condemn unambiguously the election falsification, violence and repression and reckons Lukashenko's Belarus as partner state, since the situation in Belarus requires to adopt a firm and principled position and agree on common EU action;
Amendment 141 #
2020/2081(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point -a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point -a (new)
(-a) call on all Member States to condemn the election fraud, suppression of opposition and civil society, restrictions on human rights, freedom of expression and media freedom, and breaching core democratic values and the rule of law;
Amendment 8 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas according to Article 42(2) of the TEU, the common security and defence policy (CSDP) includes the progressive framing of a common EU defence policy, which could lead to a common defence being put in place; whereas PESCO constitutes an important step towards achieving this objective;
Amendment 22 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas the three-fold level of ambition under the EU Global Strategy in the field of security and defence covers securing external borders, countering hybrid threats and fighting against terrorismthe protection of Europe and its citizens, crisis management and capacity-building of partners; whereas no Member State can protect itself alone, since security and defence threats faced by the EU, and which are targeted against its citizens and, territory, are a jointies and infrastructures, are common multi- faceted threats and cannot be addressed by one single Member State on its own; whereas an effective EU system for addressing burden-sharingefficient, coherent and strategic used of resources would be advantageous for the EU’s overall level of security and defence and is more than ever necessary in a fast deteriorating security environment;
Amendment 32 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas PESCO’s long-term vision is to achieve a coherent full-spectrum force package available to the Member Statesprovide the Union with operational capacity drawing on civil and military assets in order for the Union to perform its tasks referred to in Article 43 TEU; whereas PESCO should enhance the EU’s capacity to act as a global actor and an international security provider in orderand to protect EU citizens an; whereas PESCO would maximise the effectiveness of defence spending; whereas the cost of non- Europe in security and defence is estimated to be more than EUR 100 billion per year;
Amendment 48 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas the COVID-19 pandemic has shown the consequences of the EU not having enough competence when it comes to health care; whereas, by the same analogy, it would make sense to establish an EU common defence strategy in order to be able to respond to an attack on the EU’s borders and territories; whereas PESCO constitutes an important step towards achieving the objective of a common defence and the need for a European Health Union;
Amendment 61 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G a (new)
Recital G a (new)
Ga. whereas, the establishment of an EU common defence strategy is more than ever needed in the context of growing multiple threats;
Amendment 69 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H
Recital H
H. whereas according to Council decision 2017/2315, establishing PESCO enhanced defence capabilities of the Member States will also benefit NATO, following the single set-of-forces principle, while strengthening the European pillar within the alliance and responding to repeated calls for stronger transatlantic burden-sharing;
Amendment 88 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J
Recital J
J. whereas the pMS do not pay enough attentionmust show full political engagement to the 20 binding commitments to which they have subscribed, and not enough progress has been achieved with regard to significantly embedding PESCO into national defence planning processes;
Amendment 90 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K
Recital K
K. whereas PESCO was originally conceived as an avant-garde, comprising the Member States willing and able to upgrade their cooperation in defence to a new level of ambition; whereas the fact thwe welcome that 25 Member States have decided to participate there are 25 pMSo PESCO; whereas this high number of pMS should not means that PESCO is at risk of being constrained by the ‘lowest common denominator’ approach; whereas meaningful participation of smaller Member States shall be ensured;
Amendment 95 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital L
Recital L
L. whereas work on the first three waves of PESCO projects has led to the pMS proposing 47establishing 47 projects; whereas we consider that this high number of proposals shows that PESCO was much needed; whereas pMS shall now translate this initial enthusiasm into political will and ensure the swift and effective implementation of these projects; whereas the current list of projects lackscould benefit from more mutual coherence, strategic ambition and does not adequately address priority shortfalls as identified by the pMS; whereas one of these projects has been stopped in order to avoid unnecessary duplication; whereas other projects did not make sufficient progress or are at risk of being stopped, and around 30 projects are still in the ideation and preparatory phase;
Amendment 114 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital M
Recital M
M. whereas only the most strategic PESCO projects, such as EUFOR Crisis Response Operation Core (EUFOR CROC) have the potential to decisively contribute to the creation of a coherent full spectrum force package;
Amendment 127 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital P
Recital P
P. whereas only some of the current PESCO projects do sufficiently address the most obvious capability gapcapability shortcomings or already sufficiently take into account High Impact Capacity Goals (HICG) deriving from the Capability Development Plan (CDP), and should be considered as a priority;
Amendment 130 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Q
Recital Q
Q. whereas the consistency, coherence and mutual reinforcement between PESCO, CARD, national implementation plans (NIPs) and the CDP has to be further improved;
Amendment 133 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital R
Recital R
R. whereas the NATO Defence Planning Process (NDPP) drives defence national planning processes in most cases in Member States which are Members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization;
Amendment 145 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital S
Recital S
S. whereas interactions between Member States’ national priorities, EU priorities and NATO priorities should be synchronisedtake place at the earliest possible convenience; whereas PESCO can be an effective tool in order to achieve EU and NATO targets simultaneouslyddress the capability development priorities identified in the EU and by NATO;
Amendment 155 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital U
Recital U
U. whereas currently, PESCO projects are dependent on the 25 participating Member States’ financial contributions; whereas it is expected that, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, national defence budgets will suffer reductions; whereas paradoxically, several of the currently 47 PESCO projects, if funded accordingly, could strengthen Member States’ preparedness, should another massive public health crisis occur: military mobility – a flagship PESCO project –, the European Medical Command and many other projects in areas related to logistics and transportation, health care, disaster relief CBRN preparedness and the fight against malicious cyber activities; whereas cutting funding for the strategic capabilities that the EU and its Member States currently lack would also weaken their ability to jointly act against future pandemics;
Amendment 163 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital V
Recital V
V. whereas the prospect of co- financing certain PESCO projects via the future European Defence Fund (EDF) has led pMS to multiply their proposals, and despite the fact that this has encouraged exchanges and cooperation, notwhereas all proposals shall necessarily have the EU’s best strategic interest in mind;
Amendment 166 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital W
Recital W
W. whereas the participation of third countries, which would meet an agreed set of political substantive and legal conditions, in individual PESCO projects might be in the strategic interest of the European Union, particularly in case of the United Kingdomwhen it comes to providing technical expertise or additional capabilities, particularly in case of strategic partners such as the United Kingdom, countries from the Western Balkans and the Eastern Partnership; whereas possible third country participation to PESCO projects should not undermine the objective to foster the EU CSDP;
Amendment 188 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital AB
Recital AB
AB. whereas the Parliament regrets the fact thatcalls for the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy did noto forward his annual report on the implementation of the PESCO;
Amendment 189 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital AB a (new)
Recital AB a (new)
ABa. whereas the combined Research and Development efforts of pMS under PESCO will give way to significant technological breakthroughs, in turn providing the Union with a competitive edge in the areas of modern defence capabilities;
Amendment 194 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point a
Paragraph 1 – point a
(a) inform and consult Parliament on the review of PESCO, and to ensure that Parliament’s views are duly taken into consideration, in line with Article 36 TEU especially in the context of the current strategic review of the first PESCO phase, which ends in 2020, in order to ensure; reinforced accountability, transparency, and scrutiny;
Amendment 203 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point c
Paragraph 1 – point c
(c) prepare as soon as possible, on the basis of the results of the discussion on the Strategic Compass, a fully-fledged EU Security and Defence White Book;
Amendment 209 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point d
Paragraph 1 – point d
(d) encourage the pMS to switch from a strictly national focus on defence to a European one and to undertake structured efforts to increase the use of European collaborative approach as a priority, as no individual pMS alone has the potential to address identified capacity shortfalls; urges the European Council to move from unanimity to qualified majority voting in the fields of the CSDP and CFSP where the Treaty on European Union allows it;
Amendment 229 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point f
Paragraph 1 – point f
(f) ensure that PESCO is effectively used as an instrument to reachwards EU defence integration as a common goal, especially in terms of availability, interoperability, flexibility and deployability of forces in line with the ambition for greater EU Sstrategic Autonomyautonomy; highlights the need to secure European defence autonomy by building and developing its own capabilities, resources and reserves;
Amendment 287 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point m
Paragraph 1 – point m
(m) group PESCO projects into capability clusters and make a distinction betweenassess their strategically relevant and other projectsce;
Amendment 290 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point n
Paragraph 1 – point n
(n) promote compliance with the 20 PESCO commitments by establishing clearer definition of compliance benchmarks, and by ensuring that future project proposals must address a specific CDP priority; ensure that any reviews of project progress should be based on clear and transparent criteria; ensure that such criteria serve as benchmark for all Member States participating in PESCO projects; whereas PESCO can in this respect contribute to greater coherence, coordination and interoperability in security and defence, and to consolidating solidarity, cohesion and the resilience of the Union;
Amendment 297 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point o
Paragraph 1 – point o
(o) use the synergies between the PESCO project cycle and other defence capability processes such as CARD, HLG and EDF in order to enable more mature and well-documented projects to be submitted; allow projects to be submitted outside the cycle in order toenhance the coherence of EU defence planning and development tools and initiatives in order to enable more focused, mature, better developed and structured PESCO projects proposals to be submitted; make sure the submission cycle enables the synchronised implementation of several European initiatives, including the EDF;
Amendment 309 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point q
Paragraph 1 – point q
(q) define an effective and strong project steering committee, reaffirm the central role of the PESCO secretariat as a single point of contact for all projects and invite the secretariat to carry out regular situation points on the progress of projects to the Parliament as well as for the benefit of all the stakeholders, including Parliament, via information collected from the Member State(s) in charge of project coordination;
Amendment 312 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point q a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point q a (new)
(qa) call on the pMS to ensure tangible progress in the achievement of the current PESCO projects;
Amendment 330 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point w
Paragraph 1 – point w
(w) clarify the rules governing third- party participation in PESCO, taking into consideration the importance of EU decision-making autonomy and full reciprocity, with a case-by-case approach considered to be most beneficial for the EU; underlines the need to prepare and adopt a comprehensive and fundamental document, which regulates future cooperation with third-party participation in PESCO projects;
Amendment 335 #
2020/2080(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point w a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point w a (new)
(wa) ensure that PESCO projects further develop and increase the industrial capacity of pMS in the fields of nano-technologies, super-computers, AI, drone technology, robotics and others, in turn securing European self-reliance from foreign importers in these areas, as well as facilitate the creation of new jobs;
Amendment 57 #
2020/2074(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Stresses that Cohesion policy should be in line with the aims of the European Green Deal, and its Farm to Fork and Biodiversity strategies;
Amendment 58 #
2020/2074(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 b (new)
Paragraph 3 b (new)
3b. Highlights that developing the circular economy should be a key priority within Cohesion policy, as it has a major role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and pollution, optimize material usage and waste management, longer lifecycle etc.; also underlines the significant role of bioeconomy and blue bioeconomy in the fight against climate change;
Amendment 79 #
2020/2074(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Considers that Cohesion policy funds can also support biogas production investments which can help reduce methane emissions in a sustainable way by using agricultural waste and residues to contribute to achieving circular economy;
Amendment 83 #
2020/2074(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 b (new)
Paragraph 4 b (new)
4b. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to support new recycling technologies in agricultural waste management; and encourage the use of bio-based plastics as replacement of plastic, though aiming to reduce plastic use overall; calls on the Commission to consider the possibility of a uniform labelling scheme for bio-based plastics;
Amendment 95 #
2020/2074(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Emphasises the importance of supporting short supply chains whose role has been also highlighted by border closures as a consequence of COVID 19, underlines that short supply chains can play a significance role in reducing the carbon footprint; also highlights the positive impact of short food chains which help to reduce food waste; and stresses the need to avoid over-packaging, whilst ensuring that food packaging is important for both hygiene and consumer information reasons;
Amendment 98 #
2020/2074(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 b (new)
Paragraph 5 b (new)
5b. Stresses the importance of keeping and attracting back young people to rural areas in order to use their contemporary knowledge and perspective on environment protection and climate change and to turn the demographically challenged rural areas into blooming, lively, sustainable communities. Therefore it is important to have adequate support from Cohesion policy programmes for young people;
Amendment 130 #
2020/2074(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Highlights the possibilities of brownfield developments and rehabilitation, which can create new industrial parks and incubator centres, with soil decontamination and environmental improvement of old industrial sites, to reducing the need for further greenfield site building, and attract companies and regional investments, thereby also creating jobs.
Amendment 137 #
2020/2074(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 b (new)
Paragraph 6 b (new)
6b. Believes that digitalisation and AI technologies can lead toward a more sustainable, resilient and resource- efficient agriculture and also create new types of jobs, but they require appropriate training and education, to which everybody should have access.
Amendment 141 #
2020/2074(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 c (new)
Paragraph 6 c (new)
6c. Emphasises the need for improving all types of connectivity (broadband, transport etc.) of rural areas in an affordable, sustainable and environment friendly way.
Amendment 4 #
2020/2058(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Expects that under the future multiannual financial framework (MFF), the contribution to the agricultural and rural development domain will be maintained, in real terms, at least at current levels; insists that any additional measures relating to the green transition be financed with fresh money and additional EU own resources that will go beyond the MFF proposal;
Amendment 21 #
2020/2058(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Welcomes the Commission’s proposals on the MFF and the Next Generation EU, including the additional resources of EUR 32.5 billion for the Just Transition Fund and EUR 1 billion for the European Fund for Sustainable Development, to facilitate the European Investment Fund to provide support to a wide range of small and medium-sized enterprises;
Amendment 27 #
2020/2058(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 b (new)
Paragraph 2 b (new)
2b. Calls on the European Commission and the Member States to utilise the Recovery and Resilience Facility, where appropriate, to provide complementary support to European farmers and cooperative businesses to coherently cope with the challenges deriving from the need to ensure compliance with new rules and to adapt to the adverse impacts of climate change in a manner that does not threaten food production and respects the principle of sustainability;
Amendment 33 #
2020/2058(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Recalls that a significant percentage of the common agricultural policy (CAP) envelope, which represents the larges a significant share of the EU budget, will be set aside to support climate-related objectives; recalls that the reform of the CAP is still ongoing and that no decision has yet been made on the exact contribution to environmental and climate-related objectives and requirements; recalls also that the Commission evaluation deemed the CAP to be the appropriate framework to develop the targets in the European Green Deal and for this reason it must be adequately funded;
Amendment 52 #
2020/2058(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Points out that the recent COVID- 19 outbreak has revealed the strategic role that agriculture plays in providing safe and high-quality food at affordable prices; insists that efforts made by EU farmers to produce food more sustainably must not be undermined by the import of products from third countries that do not meet the EU’s food safety, environmental protection, animal welfare and social standards.EU’s food safety, environmental conditionality, animal welfare and social standards apply fully to the import of products from third countries, completing the efforts made by EU farmers to produce food more sustainably;
Amendment 1 #
2020/2041(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Underlines that Europe and Africa are in close geographical proximity, have strong, historical and, cultural ties andand socio- economic ties, which are being brought ever closer by the increase in strade and shared challengestegic interests, such as climate change, sustainable development, and good governance, and that the prosperity of the two continents are intimately linked, which call for an holistic continental- African approach and result-oriented use of EU resourcfor increased coherence between EU policies and the use of the related resources, while at the same time respecting the independence and sovereignty of African countries;
Amendment 11 #
2020/2041(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Reiterates the importance to respect human rights and fundamental freedoms and the principles of Article 21 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU); calls for the African Union, the European Union and their member states, for a more robust cooperation in the fields of the promotion and protection of human rights, and human rights defenders, and to deliver full political and financial support to their respective human rights mechanisms;
Amendment 15 #
2020/2041(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 b (new)
Paragraph 1 b (new)
1b. Underlines that it is important to step up synergies and coherence between all the legal and political frameworks on which EU-Africa relations are based on in order to make the partnership more effective and sustainable; welcomes the proposal for a pan-African programme in the context of the new Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument (NDICI) aimed at addressing the challenges of the African continent as a whole;
Amendment 20 #
2020/2041(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Underlines that the process of sustainable development on the African continent is of key importance for the prosperity, stability and human security of both the EU and Africa; in this context recalls that the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the respect of human rights have to remain the main objectives of EU-African relations;
Amendment 57 #
2020/2041(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Notes that Africa is still undergomaking steps forward ing the process of integration at regional, continental and international level and that as yet 54 African; therefore stresses the need for a countries remain divided and diversified in areas of key strategic importance to the EU, such as meeting internationally recognised standardinent-to-continent partnership between the European Union and the African Union; stresses that the partnership should be based on common interests and praobjecticves in trade, human rights, sustainable development and positioning in international organisations; ; recalls that developing this EU-AU partnership would enable further regionalisation and should be considered as an option for ACP relations post-Cotonou;
Amendment 77 #
2020/2041(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Welcomes the joint communication from the Commission and the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy of 9 March 2020 entitled ‘Towards a comprehensive strategy with Africa’ (JOIN(2020)0004); which underlines the universality, indivisibility, interdependence and interrelated nature of all human rights and affirms EU and African commitments to promote and protect them; calls for strong and constant EU engagement in thehuman security, stability and sustainable development of Africa; stresses the importance of including the principles of transparency and good governance in the EU-Africa Strategy and its planning, implementation and evaluation;
Amendment 87 #
2020/2041(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Stresses the importance of a true inclusion of international and local civil society organisations, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), parliamentary assemblies, the diaspora, trade unions, youth organisations, the private sector and local authorities in consolidating the political dialogue between the EU and Africa; calls on the AU and the EU to ensure unfettered civil society access to African and European institutions and their human rights mechanisms; further insists on the importance of creating an enabling environment for civil society and addressing an increasing crackdown on human rights defenders;
Amendment 94 #
2020/2041(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 b (new)
Paragraph 5 b (new)
5b. Recalls the AU and the EU’s joint commitment to collaborate on the global human rights agenda; calls on AU and EU institutions to prioritise cooperation at multilateral human rights fora and to act robustly in defence of crucial human rights gains at multilateral level; to this end, calls them to develop concrete strategies to counter the recent pushback on existing human rights norms at multilateral fora, including the universality and indivisibility of human rights; reminds EU and AU member states that they must deliver full political and financial support to their respective human rights mechanisms and ensure these, together with a strong and independent civil society, can guarantee delivery and further progress on human rights for all in Africa and Europe;
Amendment 144 #
2020/2041(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Shares the opinion that the matter of the security of Africa should be transferred into the handsAfrican states and regional institutions must have the leading role in matters relating to the security of Africans and that the EU should assissupport its African partners in the successful accomplishment of this ultimate goal., by tackling the root causes of human insecurity, as well as including by implementing a conflict prevention, do no harm and policy coherence approach in all aspects of its relationship with Africa, and by supporting the role of civil society actors in peacekeeping and peace- building efforts;
Amendment 161 #
2020/2041(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7a. Calls, in the context of counter- terrorism policies, on the establishment of more transparent decision-making processes, increased general awareness about a human rights-based approach and more engagement with communities affected by these measures;
Amendment 1 #
2020/2039(INI)
Draft opinion
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
- having regard to the European Parliament resolution of 14 November 2017 on the deployment of cohesion policy instruments by regions to address demographic change,
Amendment 10 #
2020/2039(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
B a. whereas the demographic changes and depopulation issues are severely burdening rural, peripheral, sparsely populated areas and islands, as well as impacting the challenge of ageing, generational renewal and agriculture development;
Amendment 13 #
2020/2039(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital B b (new)
Recital B b (new)
B b. whereas one of the main issues affecting rural economies is the declining share of agriculture; whereas data has shown that only 10,7% of EU farmers are below 40 years old and the farming population is ageing, which will have an impact on the agricultural sector;
Amendment 28 #
2020/2039(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Stresses that the ongoing depopulation of rural areas is not only having serious economic and social consequences but also hampering our chanccreating challenges ofin achieving the Green Deal’s ambitious objectives;
Amendment 38 #
2020/2039(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3 a. Calls the Commission to ensure that priority is given to creating opportunities for the labour market, supporting energy transition and developing transport and broadband infrastructure, in order to address structural challenges that are the main causes for migration from rural areas;
Amendment 42 #
2020/2039(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 b (new)
Paragraph 3 b (new)
3 b. Stresses the need to foster and develop projects to promote the return of young people to rural areas by supporting youth employment, digital connectivity and entrepreneurship using best practices from member states;
Amendment 69 #
2020/2039(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Deplores the fact that the agreement on the multiannual financial framework is not ambitious enough to meet the challenges of demographic change; criticiseregrets the cuts to the EU’s two main instruments designed to promote sustainable development in rural areas: cohesion policy and the CAP.
Amendment 16 #
2020/2023(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas as a third country, the UK cannot have the same rights and enjoy the same benefits and does not comply with the same obligations as a member and the situation in both the EU and the UK will therefore change significantly as of January 2021;
Amendment 59 #
2020/2023(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 – point i
Paragraph 4 – point i
(i) a third country must not have the same rights and benefits and does not comply with the same obligations as a Member State of the EU, or a member of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) or European Economic Area (EEA);
Amendment 103 #
2020/2023(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Amendment 113 #
2020/2023(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 b (new)
Paragraph 6 b (new)
6 b. Believes, in particular, that UK participation in cross-border, cultural, development, education and research programmes such as Erasmus+, Creative Europe, Horizon, the European Research Council, the LIFE Programme, TEN-T, CEF, SES, Interreg, joint technology initiatives such as Clean Sky I and II, SESAR, ERICs, Galileo, Copernicus, the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS), Space, Surveillance and Tracking (SST) Support Framework, and public-private partnerships, is important; encourages therefore the participation of the UK in EU programmes while respecting all relevant rules and mechanisms and conditions of participation as a third country;
Amendment 4 #
2020/2013(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Highlights that the security and defence policies of the European Union and its Member States are guided by the principles enshrined in the European Charter of Fundamental Rights and of those of the UN Charter, and by a common understanding of the universal values of the inviolable and inalienable rights of the human person, of freedom, of democracy, of equality and of the rule of law; highlights that all defence-related efforts within the Union framework must respect these universal values while promoting peace, security and progress in Europe and in the world;
Amendment 8 #
2020/2013(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Calls on the UN and the wider international community to undertake all necessary regulatory efforts to ensure that the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in military affairs and in the law enforcement civil capacities, such as police and border control forces, and the use of AI-enabled systems by the military stay within the strict limits set by international law and, including international humanitarian law (IHL) and Human Rights law;
Amendment 14 #
2020/2013(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Considers in particular that the development and use of AI- enabled systems must abide by the principles ofin armed conflicts must abide by the Martens Clause, and must never breach or be permitted to breach the dictates of the public conscience and humanity; considers that this is the ultimate testeir ability to be used in compliance with international humanitarian law is the minimum standard for the admissibility of an AI- enabled system in warfare; calls on the AI research community to integrate this principle in all AI-enabled systems intended to be used in warfare; considers that no authority can issue a derogation from those principles or certify an AI- enabled system breaching them;
Amendment 17 #
2020/2013(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Calls on the HR/VP to push for an AI international regulatory framework, aligning major powers on common norms, based on democratic values, adequately framed so as to prevent their use for espionage, mass, targeted and political surveillance, disinformation and data manipulation, and a cyber-arms race;
Amendment 18 #
2020/2013(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 b (new)
Paragraph 3 b (new)
3b. Welcomes the creation of a UN Group of Governmental Experts (GGE) on Advancing responsible State behaviour in cyber space in the context of international security and calls on the EU to fully take part in its work;
Amendment 19 #
2020/2013(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 c (new)
Paragraph 3 c (new)
3c. Calls on the HR/VP to pave the way for global negotiations with a view to put in place an AI arms control regime, and to update all existing Treaty instruments dedicated to arms control, disarmament and non-proliferation so as to take AI-enabled systems in warfare into account; calls on the Common position on arms export to fully take into account and cover AI-enabled weapons systems;
Amendment 20 #
2020/2013(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 d (new)
Paragraph 3 d (new)
3d. Reaffirms support to the work of the UN GGE on Lethal Autonomous Weapons Systems (LAWS), which remains the relevant international forum for discussions and negotiations on the legal challenges posed by autonomous weapons systems; encourages the UN to foster dialogue among Member States, researchers, academics, civil society humanitarian actors and the private sector so as to have inclusive policymaking processes on new international provisions preventing the development, use and proliferation of lethal autonomous weapons systems ; calls for all existing multilateral efforts to be accelerated so that normative and regulatory frameworks are not outpaced by technological development and new methods of warfare;
Amendment 27 #
2020/2013(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Stresses that states, parties to a conflict and individuals, when employing AI-enabled systems in warfare, must at all times adhere to their obligations and liability under the applicable international law and remain accountable for actions resulting from the use of such systems; recalls that AI machines can under no circumstances be heldhumans remain accountable for intended, unintended or undesirable effects caused by AI- enabled systems on the battlefield;
Amendment 29 #
2020/2013(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Highlights the need to take duly into account, during the design, development, testing and deployment phases of an AI-enabled system, potential risks as regards to incidental civilian casualties and injury, accidental loss of life, and damage to civilian infrastructure, but also risks related to unintended engagement, manipulation, proliferation, cyber-attack or interference and acquisition by organised crime and terrorist groups;
Amendment 35 #
2020/2013(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Stresses the need for robust testing and, evaluation, certification and monitoring systems based on democratic norms to ensure that during the entire lifecycle of AI-enabled systems in the military domain, in particular during the phases of human- machine interaction, machine learning and adjusting and adapting to new circumstances, the systems and their effect do not go beyond the intended limits and that users will at all times be able to comply with the applicable international law;
Amendment 40 #
2020/2013(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Highlights that any AI-enabled system used in the military domain must, as a minimum set of requirements, be able to distinguish between combatants and non-combatants on the battlefield, not have indiscriminate effects, notbetween military and civilian targets, recognize when a combatant surrenders or is hors de combat; not have indiscriminate effects, individuate the use of force and not target a certain category of people, not be of a nature to cause unnecessary suffering to persons, nor cruel or degrading treatments, not be biased or be trained on biased data, and be used in compliance with the IHL principles of military necessity, proportionality in the use of forcedistinction, proportionality and precaution prior to engagement and in attack;
Amendment 46 #
2020/2013(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Stresses that in the use of AI- enabled systems in security and defence, full situational understanding of the operator, predictability and reliability of the AI-enabled system ability to detect possible changes in circumstances and ability tooperational environment and ability to intervene in or discontinue an attack are needed to ensure that IHL principles, in particular distinction, proportionality and precaution in attack, are fully applied across the entire chain of command and control; stresses that AI- enabled systems must allow the military leadership to assume its full control and responsibility and be accountable at all times;
Amendment 54 #
2020/2013(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Calls on states to carry out an assessment of hown whether autonomous military devices shave contributed to their national security and what their national security canould gain from AI-enabled weapon systems, in particular as regards the potential of such technologies to reduce human error, thus enhancing the implementation of IHL principlessupport and enhance human decision- making in compliance with IHL;
Amendment 56 #
2020/2013(INI)
9a. Calls for the establishment of a European Agency for Artificial Intelligence, which mandate would cover common standards, certification and monitoring frameworks, as well as strong bilateral cooperation with NATO when it comes to the deployment, development and us of AI in the military field;
Amendment 57 #
2020/2013(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. CRecalls the European Parliament position on autonomous weapons systems enabling strikes to be carried out without meaningful human intervention; calls on the HR/VP, the Member States and the European Council to adopt a common position on autonomous weapons system, that ensures meaningful human control over the critical functions of weapons systems, including during deployment; calls on the HR/VP, in the framework of the ongoing discussions on the international regulation of lethal autonomous weapon systems by states parties to the Convention on Prohibitions or Restrictions on the Use of Certain Conventional Weapons (CCW), to help streamline the global debate on core issues and definitions where consensus has not been reached, in particular as regardsadvance the effort to develop a new global normative framework and a legally binding instrument, focused on definitions, concepts and characteristics of AI- enabled lethal autonomous weapons and theirsystems, specifically their critical functions in the identification, selection and engagement of a target, application of the concept of human responsibility in the use of AI- enabled systems in defence, and theto consider the necessary degree of human/machine interaction, including the concept of human control and judgment, to ensure compliance with international humanitarian and Human Rights law as well as with ethical concerns, during the different stages of the lifecycle of an AI- enabled weapon.
Amendment 2 #
2020/2012(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Highlights that the security and defence policies of the European Union and its Member States are guided by the principles enshrined in the European Charter of Fundamental Rights and those of the United Nations Charter, and by a common understanding of the universal values of the inviolable and inalienable rights of the human person, of freedom, of democracy, of equality and of the rule of law; highlights that all defence- related efforts within the Union framework must respect these universal values whilst promoting peace, security and progress in Europe and in the world;
Amendment 7 #
2020/2012(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Stresses that a Union framework regulating the use of artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled systems in defence must respect all applicable legal regimes, in particular the international humanitarian law and the international human rights law, and be in compliance with Union law, principles and values; stresses that the EU should play a global role in leading the way towards a credible and binding AI regulatory agenda rooted in democratic values; calls on the Union to assess the inherent AI-related risks with regard to the application of Union law, and foresee necessary adjustment and enforcement where needed; underlines that emerging technologies not covered by international law should be judged by the principle of humanity and the dictates of public conscience; underlines that the ethics of AI-enabled systems in defence must be assessed from the point of view of Human rights, and notably human safety, health and security, freedom, privacy, integrity and dignity;
Amendment 14 #
2020/2012(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Emphasises that the geographical scope of such a framework should cover all the components of artificial intelligence, robotics and related technologies developed, deployed or used in the Union, including in cases where part of the technologies might be located outside the Union or not have a specific location;
Amendment 36 #
2020/2012(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Highlights that, based on a human- centric approach, the Unionwhereby technology fully respects Human Rights and humans retain authority over automated decision- making systems, the Union needs a robust AI regulatory framework focused on security and defence, followsing a path of responsibility, of protecting our citizens, and of defending our values, that its policies aim at preserving peace, preventing conflicts and strengthening international security, whilst seizing the opportunities that those technologies offer;
Amendment 47 #
2020/2012(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Underlines that the Union must be at the forefront of mastering those technologies by establishing well defined processes for their use, for understanding the related ethical aspects and for fostering an effective international regulatory framework that contains the inherent risks of these technologies and prevents use for malicious purposes; the Union working together with the Member States must determine the appropriate liability regimes applicable to innovations in AI and other immersive technologies in the field of security and defence thus establishing a legal basis for accountability and traceability mechanisms, those include in particular unintended harm to persons, be it material or immaterial, such as breach of fundamental rights;
Amendment 57 #
2020/2012(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Stresses that for any defence application of AI enabled systems, the Union should set technical and organisational standards to ensure their resilience against cyber-attacks and digital influence, as well as their compliance with the highest possible trustworthiness standards as regards the collection and exploitation of operational datareliability standards, active monitoring and supervision as regards the collection and exploitation of operational data; AI systems and applications intended to extract and synthesise data, and extrapolate results therefrom to inform decisions for matters relating to defence and national security, must be specific in scope and comply with the provisions set out in the current regulatory framework in terms of gathering and processing data; stresses that AI applications designed to process data for intelligence purposes in defence related activities should comply with data processing standards to avoid risks of unintended surveillance or infringement of individual rights; believes that for high-risk applications of AI-enabled technologies like facial recognition which lack a definitive regulatory framework at the EU level, the Union must ensure that their development and deployment is rightful, proportional and respects the rights of individuals; stresses the importance of monitoring competent national law enforcement authorities which develop and deploy AI-enabled systems and technologies to maintain public order so as to mitigate the disproportional risks of predictive policing;
Amendment 68 #
2020/2012(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Highlights the need to adopt clear safety and security provisions and requirements, with proper certifications, for AI-systems in defence, and carry ourt constant monitoring, regular tests and verifications across the entire life cycle; underlines the necessity of ensuring compliance with applicable standards and obtained certifications where AI modifies e.g. through machine learning the functionality and behaviour of systems in which it is integrated, in order to ensure full traceability of decisions made with involvement of AI;
Amendment 81 #
2020/2012(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Stresseds that all AI-systems in defence must have a concrete and well- defined domain of use and must be endowed withwhereby humans retain the abilitgency to detect and, disengage or diseactivate deployed systems should they move from their domain of use or engage in any escalatory or unintended action;
Amendment 85 #
2020/2012(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Underlines that the entire responsibility for the decision to design, develop, deploy and use AI-systems must rest on human operators and, as there must be meaningful human control over any weapons system and human intent in the decision to use force; underlines that the human-in- the-loop principle must also be applied to the command and control of AI- enabled systems; stresses that AI-enabled systems must allow the military leadership to assume its full responsibility and exercise the necessary level of judgmentaccountability for the use of lethal force and exercise the necessary level of judgment, which cannot be endowed to machines as it must be based on distinction, proportionality and precaution, for taking lethal or large-scale destructive action bey means of such systems; recalls in this respect its position on a ban on the development, production and use of fully autonomous weapons systems enabling strikes to be carried out without meaningful human intervention;
Amendment 94 #
2020/2012(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9 a (new)
Paragraph 9 a (new)
9a. Stresses that the EU must take the lead in promoting the establishment of international norms regarding the ethical and legal parameters of the development and use of fully autonomous, semi- autonomous and remotely operated lethal weapons systems; Member States should develop national strategies for the definition, status and use of lethal autonomous weapons (LAWs) towards a comprehensive strategy on the EU level;
Amendment 103 #
2020/2012(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Underlines that the Union must promote understanding of the military implications of AI, of robotics and of autonomy; considers that the Union needs to promote the acquisition of the necessary skills and knowledge on technology development processes and operational methods throughout the supply chain and over the full lifecycle of AI-enabled military capabilities;
Amendment 116 #
2020/2012(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Stresses the need to overcome the current fragmentation within the Union as regards national AI-related law, research, innovation and expertise in the area of AI, which puts in jeopardyendangers the functioning of the internal market and the objective to ensure trustworthyreliable and secure development of AI in Europe; in this respect welcomes the inclusion of AI- related projects under the European Industrial Development Programme (EDIDP); believes that the future European Defence Fund (EDF) and the Permanent structured cooperation (PESCO) also offer well adapted frameworks for future AI- related projects that would help to better streamline Union efforts in this field; stresses that AI-related projects should be synchronized with the wider EU civilian programmes devoted to AI; notes that in line with the European Commission’s White Paper on AI (COM2020/65final) excellence and testing centres concentrating on research and development of AI in the field of security and defence should be established with vigorous specifications underpinning the participation of and investment from private stakeholders;
Amendment 121 #
2020/2012(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 11 a (new)
Paragraph 11 a (new)
11a. Emphasises that the development of AI that respects fundamental rights and supports the public interest requires the strategic pooling and sharing of data in the EU between private and public entities, as well as the strengthening of an EU AI ecosystem, which involves public, private, and civil society stakeholders; calls on the European Commission to foster dialogue among Member States, researchers, academics, civil society actors and the private sector so as to have inclusive policymaking processes when it comes to defence-related AI regulations;
Amendment 133 #
2020/2012(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Calls on the European Commission and on the VP/HR to present, also as part of an overall approach, a sectoral AI strategy for defence-related activities within the Union framework, that ensures both respect for citizens’ rights and EU’s strategic interests that should propose a consistent regulatory approach spanning from the inception of AI-enabled systems to their military uses; calls on these regulatory efforts to be supported by meaningful monitoring schemes, so that normative frameworks are not outplaced by technological development and new methods of warfare; calls on the Council, the European Commission and on the VP/HR to enter in a structured dialogue with the European Parliament to that end.
Amendment 4 #
2020/2008(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital A a (new)
Recital A a (new)
A a. whereas the demographic old-age developments have different impacts in the European regions, affecting more severely rural and remote areas, areas which are also experiencing a decline in their population; whereas population decline may have a negative impact in the social, economic and territorial cohesion of the EU;
Amendment 8 #
2020/2008(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital A b (new)
Recital A b (new)
A b. whereas employed workers, in the 55-64 age group, represented 59,1% of the labour force in the EU in 20191a; whereas, in 2016, around one third of the managers of family farms were aged 65 or over and the majority (57%) were at least 55years old or more; whereas only one in ten farm managers were under the age of 40; _________________ 1a https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/tgm/table.dot ab=table∈it=1⟨uage=en&pcode=tesem050 &plugin=1
Amendment 14 #
2020/2008(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas the current situation of older people on the labour market and more broadly in society shows that vast and decisive investment is needed in areas such as equal opportunities, lifelong learning and health, and more generally, employment assistance and health provision, in order to tackle the growing economic and social inequalities within the EU;
Amendment 18 #
2020/2008(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
B a. whereas older people in rural or remote areas, may face higher risks of age-related risks, including poverty, poorer access to quality health care and services, less social support or opportunity for social interaction, and lack of access to public transport services;
Amendment 34 #
2020/2008(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Considers that the currenta political approach, based on a limited and damaging vision (‘any job at any cost’), should be phased out so that is essential based on a vision of employment and work can be seen inas a longer-term perspectivecomponent of the individual’s working life;
Amendment 36 #
2020/2008(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1 a. Considers that creating opportunities for intergenerational dialogue is important to enrich the social life of rural older people, counteracting the risk of social isolation, and, at the same time, helping younger generations through the knowledge of the past and traditional practices to contributing for cultural and heritage preservation as well as a more cohesive society;
Amendment 40 #
2020/2008(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Considers that sustained efforts will still be required from the social partners and the European and national institutions and the society in general, to create a truly positive ‘culture’ of active ageing and non- discriminatory recruitment;
Amendment 66 #
2020/2008(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Considers that family workers still represent the vast majority of agricultural labour in Europe, but notes that this type of labour has been steadily declining for years and is expected to decline further in the near future, due to ageing and out- migration of young people from rural areas;;
Amendment 71 #
2020/2008(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Stresses the importance of supporting the rural areas in their diversity, encouraging investments in projects that support local economies, including better transport accessibility and digital connectivity; Considers it important to recall that maintaining agricultural employment has direct implications for keeping rural economies alive; believes in addition that the challenge faced by all farmers, in understanding the role of, and engaging with, modern technology and innovation in agriculture should not be underestimated; stresses therefore stresses the importance of lifelong vocational training, advisory services and knowledge exchange, both within and outside the framework of the CAP.
Amendment 76 #
2020/2008(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5 a. Notes that an ageing population, in particularly in agricultural and rural areas, is an unavoidable trend that must be taken into account when designing economic and social policies; considers that the issue of an ageing population requires a multidimensional approach, and stresses the importance of promoting a wider complementarity and synergy between policy areas and support instruments; reminds that adequate resources and services are essential to provide older people with an age-friendly environment;
Amendment 87 #
2020/2008(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 b (new)
Paragraph 5 b (new)
5 b. Highlights the role of the European structural and investment funds, in combination with other EU funds, in addressing the demographic challenges in rural areas, namely through the promotion of economic development and social inclusion;
Amendment 91 #
2020/2008(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 c (new)
Paragraph 5 c (new)
5 c. Highlights the role and importance of the CAP in encouraging generation renewal in the agricultural sector; Calls on Member States to favour actions to increase numbers of young farmers in their Strategic Plans and to promote the articulation with other instruments available at national and EU level;
Amendment 6 #
2020/2007(INI)
- having regard to the Communication of the European Commission of 23 March 2020 on the implementation of the Green Lanes under the Guidelines for border management measures to protect health and ensure the availability of goods and essential services,
Amendment 9 #
2020/2007(INI)
Draft opinion
Citation 2 b (new)
Citation 2 b (new)
- having regard to the Communication of the European Commission of 30 March 2020 ‘Guidelines concerning the exercise of the free movement of workers during COVID- 19 outbreak’,
Amendment 11 #
2020/2007(INI)
Draft opinion
Citation 2 c (new)
Citation 2 c (new)
- having regard to the Communication of the European Commission of 16 July 2020 ‘Guidelines on Seasonal Workers in the EU in the Context of the Covid-19 Outbreak’,
Amendment 29 #
2020/2007(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the Commission’s legislative proposal of March 2018 for establishing a European Labour Authority to ensure that EU rules on labour mobility are enforced in a fair, simple and effective way and prevents limitations to such mobility within the European internal market, which some Member States apply with bureaucratic hurdles or additional measures, hampering access to work;
Amendment 43 #
2020/2007(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2 a. Calls for a swift implementation of the European Pillar of Social Rights and in particular of Directive (EU) 2019/1152 on transparent and predictable working conditions, in order to guarantee - among others - the right to fair and equal treatment regarding working conditions, access to social protection and training for workers;
Amendment 46 #
2020/2007(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 b (new)
Paragraph 2 b (new)
2 b. Condemns the exploitation of workers in the agri-food sectors, which is a serious phenomenon affecting in particular seasonal and women workers; underlines that vulnerable workers, such as women and migrants, are at a particular risk of being subject to physical and psychological violence; calls therefore on the Commission and on Member States to strengthen the actions to prevent, suppress and punish exploitation and any other form of abuse;
Amendment 62 #
2020/2007(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Considers that family workers still represent the vast majority of agricultural labour in Europe, and that insufficient generational renewal, aggravated by the lack of profitability of many agricultural holdings, which makes this activity unattractive for the incorporation of young people, is one of the major challenges faced by the farming sector across the EU, resulting in fewer farmers in the sector year after year;
Amendment 67 #
2020/2007(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4 a. Stresses the necessity to guarantee agri-food supply chains and food security, especially during the current COVID-19 crisis; notes that seasonal workers are crucial to the smooth and proper functioning of the agricultural sectors, in particular for the fruit, vegetable and wine sectors; points out that it is fundamental to protect and guarantee the rights, health and safety of workers in the agri-food sectors, especially during the current COVID-19 crisis;
Amendment 71 #
2020/2007(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4 a. Stresses the importance of ensuring that rural areas are equipped with the necessary basic public service facilities in order to enable a proper and permanent incorporation of women into any labour activity in these territories;
Amendment 80 #
2020/2007(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Points out that technological innovation is, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital technologies are a driver of structural change within farms and agricultural labour markets, and that many holdings across Europe are not sufficiently prepared for taking up technologicalsuch innovation owing to the low level of agricultural training of their farm managers and workers, a level which differs significantly among Member States; calls therefore for the promotion of digital training and upskilling as well as for support and advice for both workers and employers in the agricultural sector;
Amendment 86 #
2020/2007(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5 a. Underlines that the new CAP should have a social dimension and a conditionality on social and labour requirements and standards, protecting the rights, wages and social security of all workers, including seasonal ones who are the most vulnerable on the market;
Amendment 91 #
2020/2007(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Recalls that maintaining farming employment plays a key roleand adequate profitability of agricultural holdings are essential in keeping rural economies alive and isare therefore of significant importance which shows an urgent need for measures beyond the CAP reform;
Amendment 96 #
2020/2007(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
Amendment 99 #
2020/2007(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7 a. Considers it vital to make progress on these issues in the European Union, to adopt measures at European level as a European minimum wage that can protect all workers, regardless of where they come from;
Amendment 10 #
2020/2006(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Notes that sustainable forest management is essential not only from environmental but also from the social and economic points of view, as the sector employs at least 500 000 people directly1a and 2,6 million indirectly1b in the Union, and respectively 13 million and 41 million people worldwide1c; _________________ 1aEurostat database on forestry https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/web/forestry/ data/database 1bEuropean Parliament fact sheet of May 2019 on the European Union and forests 1chttp://www.fao.org/rural- employment/agricultural-sub- sectors/forestry/en
Amendment 50 #
2020/2006(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Amendment 55 #
2020/2006(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Considers that improving traceability and transparency can help to ensure that only sustainably sourced goods are consumed; but only in combination with common and widely recognised labelling and certification systems, and calls for due diligence obligations to be part of public procurement rules;
Amendment 61 #
2020/2006(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Encourages forest planting and re- planting activities and projects, especially planting of native and wildlife friendly species, as efficient afforestation and protection and restoration of forests help to increase carbon sequestration, reduce the risk and extent of forest fires, complement organic farming and agroforestry and promote biodiversity; stresses the important role of riverside forests in stabilising riverbanks, thereby reducing flood risk, maintaining water temperatures which protect biodiversity, and improving water quality by filtering run-offs from adjacent agricultural land; notes that newly planted forests cannot replace primary forests which are essential in biodiversity and environmental terms;
Amendment 70 #
2020/2006(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Calls for binding and enforceable environmental and social provisions to be included in free trade agreements (FTAs)with respect to the application of food safety, environmental and animal welfare standards so as to protect forests, natural ecosystems and human rights, particularly community tenure rights; calls foron the reopening of FTAs which do not contain such provisions, for example EU-Mercosur FTACommission to continue to closely monitor and enforce ongoing free trade agreements against those standards;
Amendment 78 #
2020/2006(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Notes the continuing import into the Union of palm oil and its use in a range of industries, including the food industry; expresses its concern that palm oil is being used in some products as a milk substitute, which is liable to mislead consumers; notes with concern that the demand for products such as palm oil puts pressure on forest areas in sensitive regions and on the communities that live there;
Amendment 98 #
2020/2006(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7a. Calls for a more holistic approach in which the Union provides direct support to local authorities for greening, afforestation and sustainable forest management practices; believes, in particular, that poverty-induced use of forest wood as heating fuel must be addressed, including by financing clean alternatives;
Amendment 111 #
2020/2006(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Notes the unsustainable level of consumption in the EUnion, and that, for example, the Renewable Energy Directive (RED II) contains insufficient sustainability criteria, which both causes and intensifies land-use change; stresses that the Union funding mechanism should promote sustainable forest management and land-use;
Amendment 118 #
2020/2006(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8a. Stresses the importance of an observatory system for deforestation, forest degradation and changes in the world’s forest cover; encourages the increased use of the Copernicus satellite system to monitor forests;
Amendment 119 #
2020/2006(INL)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 b (new)
Paragraph 8 b (new)
8b. Calls for a stronger role of the Union in helping local authority enforcement of forest protection regulations in force;
Amendment 11 #
2020/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 18 a (new)
Citation 18 a (new)
- having regard to the UN Sustainable Development Goal 16, aiming at the promotion of peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development 14a _________________ 14a https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/sdg 16
Amendment 22 #
2020/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A a (new)
Recital A a (new)
Aa. whereas a new arms race in the world is growing and the major military powers no longer rely on arms control and disarmament to reduce international tensions and improve the global security environment;
Amendment 39 #
2020/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph -1 (new)
Paragraph -1 (new)
-1. Underlines that maintaining a defence industry serves as part of the self- defence of the Union and is a component of its strategic autonomy; notes that it is only possible if Member States give priority to European products in their equipment programs; stresses that a viable European market would reduce dependency on arms exports to third countries;
Amendment 65 #
2020/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Deplores the fact that Member States use very different information in order to generate data on the value of licences, which renders the annual report considerably less consistent and usable as a comparative data set and serves to diminish its transparency and accountability before citizens and parliaments; urges France, in particular, to refrain from submitting data on the value of licences at pre-contract stage and broad values for global licences, which undermines the comparability of the report;
Amendment 82 #
2020/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Welcomes the renewed extension of the moratorium on arms exports towards Saudi Arabia by Germany until the end of 2020 as well as the decisions by several Member States to enforce full restrictions when it comes to arms exports towards Saudi Arabia; reiterates its call of 13 September 2017 regarding the urgent need to impose an arms embargo on Saudi Arabia;
Amendment 86 #
2020/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 b (new)
Paragraph 5 b (new)
5b. Condemns the increasing arms race in the world and calls on the world major military powers, largest producers and exporters of weapons to foster dialogue, multilateralism and disarmament of conventional and nuclear weapons;
Amendment 88 #
2020/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 c (new)
Paragraph 5 c (new)
Amendment 127 #
2020/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10a. Stresses that the ambition to increase the competitiveness of the European defence sector must not undermine the application of the Common Position’s eight criteria as they take precedence over any economic social, commercial or industrial interests of Member States;
Amendment 141 #
2020/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
12a. Welcomes the EU activities aiming at supporting the universalisation of the Arms Trade Treaty(ATT), in particular the assistance to third countries in improving and implementing effective arms control systems in line with the Common Position; calls the major arms exporting countries, such as the USA, China and Russia, to sign and ratify the Treaty;
Amendment 260 #
2020/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Believes that the EU institutions should organise peer reviews with a view to encouraging authorities to share best practices on the collection and processing of data, fostering a better understanding of different national approaches, identifying differences as regards the interpretation of the eight criteria, and discussing ways to improve harmonisation and consistency;
Amendment 266 #
2020/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Strongly believes that a more consistent implementation of the EU Common Position is essential for the EU credibility as a value-based global actor and that much higher level of convergence as regards the strict application of the criteria will strengthen human rights, international law and the CFSP, and bolster the EU’s strategic security interests and strategic autonomy;
Amendment 298 #
2020/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
26. Considers that regular consultations with the European Parliament, national parliaments, arms export control authorities, industry associations and civil society are central to meaningful transparency; calls on national parliaments to exchange best reporting and oversight practices in order to enhance the scrutinising role of all national parliaments in the decisions on arms control exports; calls on COARM to enhance dialogue with civil society and consultations with Parliament and arms export control authorities; encourages civil society and academia to exercise independent scrutiny of the arms trade and calls on the Member States and the EEAS to support such activities, including by financial means;
Amendment 13 #
2020/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 6 a (new)
Citation 6 a (new)
- having regard to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and with special attention to SDG 16, aiming at the promotion of peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development,
Amendment 16 #
2020/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 6 b (new)
Citation 6 b (new)
- having regard to the United Nations Secretary General’s appeal for a global ceasefire in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic,
Amendment 35 #
2020/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas security is a precondition for development; whereas human security is a precondition for lasting peace and stability; whereas a strong nexus between security, development, and humanitarian intervention is essential for the sustainable development of the Sahel, West Africa and Horn of Africa regions; whereas without development and poverty eradication, there will be no sustainable peace; whereas in order to ensure its security and sustainable development, each country must have or acquire adequate capacities in all essentialkey sectors, including security and defence and whereas this will not only stabilise that country, but will also enable it to contribute constructively to peace, stability and crisis prevention in its region;
Amendment 52 #
2020/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas from the Atlantic Ocean in the west to the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean in the east, Africa is struggling to contend with challenges, such as historical underdevelopment compounded by the destrucabilisation of the traditional agro- pastoral economy as a result of climate change, population growth and pressure on the natural and environmental resources such as deforestation; whereas another major challenge is the emergence of new forms of mafia economy, including human and drug trafficking and the uncontrolled export of gold deposits, which, combined with the abandonment, inefficiency and corruption of theweak governance, rising inequalities and lack of trust in governments and public administration, is producing a hybridisation between terrorist groups, traffickers and traditional community and regional conflicts, with the phenomenon of jihadist religious extremism appearing as a false response for the societies concerned;
Amendment 70 #
2020/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas poverty and insecurity feed off each other and push young people to migrate to Europe in search of a better life, impoverishing states by depriving them of their best human resourcescombined with other factors such as bad governance, corruption and lack of employment opportunities, particularly affect young people and the possibilities given to them, thus pushing many to migrate;
Amendment 100 #
2020/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas the EU is also supporting the establishment and operationalisation of the G5 Sahel Joint Force;
Amendment 109 #
2020/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas after years of training, the above-mentioned EU missions have been hampered in their sustainability and effectiveness due to restrictions on their mandate, training programmes, and a lack of basic equipment, including weapons, ammunition and vehiclessustainability plans and local ownership;
Amendment 118 #
2020/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H
Recital H
H. whereas these restrictions have allowed third countries, notably Russia, China and Turkey, to fill the void left by the European Union by supplying such equipment have increased their supply of weapons and ammunitions to countries of the region;
Amendment 128 #
2020/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. whereas neither the Somali army, nor the Malian army norand the Central African Armed Forces (FACA) have been able to contribute effectively to the fight against jihadistare struggling to fight effectively against terrorists and armed groups or hold and secure the ground cleared with the aid of friendly international forces, the result being that the local populations feel abandoned and fear being accused of collaborating with the government by the jihadists or the armed groups in the CAR once they return and reoccupy the space from which they were expelled;
Amendment 138 #
2020/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J
Recital J
J. whereas after years of involvement in the above-mentioned civil and military missions, the general situation has become worse and worsenot improved significantly and a new and comprehensive strategy therefore needs to be implemented;
Amendment 171 #
2020/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Considers that the European Union must coordinate the development and, security and humanitarian initiatives in which it is involved as part of an integrated strategy; considers that the African Union and African States from the region are key partners with which the EU is meaningfully engaged in order to jointly achieve sustainable development and human security; considers that the EU- Africa security cooperation must be based on human rights and humanitarian law and must respect the do-no-harm principle; considers that a security strategy for the Sahel, West Africa and Horn of Africa regions must first and foremost lie on addressing the root causes of the conflicts in the region, and notably the deep inequalities;
Amendment 201 #
2020/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Calls for the revision of Article 3a(4)(b) and (c) of Regulation (EU) No 230/2014 in the light of the grave and profound degradation in the security conditions in the region and in order to fill any gaps in EU missions and projects with a view to supporting the capacity- building of partners in the security sector, including through funding for military spending and the provision of weapons, ammunition or lethal equipment, transport and training essential for improving the combat capability of African armed forces fighting against jihadism; supports the Joint Communication of the Commission and the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy of 28 April 2015 entitled ‘Capacity building in support of security and development – Enabling partners to prevent and manage crises’4 ; _________________ 4 JOIN(2015)0017.Welcomes the proposal for a new Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument;
Amendment 218 #
2020/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Calls on the VP/HR to propose a Council decision on the establishment of a specific service to oversee the supply and use of such equipment and training; calls for funding from the EU budget to be provided for the administrative expenditure arising from that Council decision, including for personnel; calls on the Council to charge the Member States for the expenditure arising from the supply and use of such equipment and training; calls on the Member States that do not participate in funding the supply and use of such material to abstain from the vote in the Council;
Amendment 227 #
2020/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 – introductory part
Paragraph 5 – introductory part
5. Considers that the sustainability and effectiveness of EU civilian and military missions in Africa have been hampered by the lack of of local ownership, sustainability plans and basic equipment in the countries affected and that it is therefore necessary:
Amendment 236 #
2020/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 – point a
Paragraph 5 – point a
a) for the EU budget be large enough to effectively address the current challenges relating to training and military equipment (including weapons, munitions and transport)equipment;
Amendment 243 #
2020/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 – point b
Paragraph 5 – point b
b) to adapt the APF in order to overcome the current limitations on the acquisition of arms and munitionsput in place the proposed European Peace Facility, with full respect for the Common Position, for Human rights and humanitarian law, and with effective transparency provisions such as the publication of a detailed list of military equipment provided to partner countries under the Facility;
Amendment 260 #
2020/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Recommends that the EU considers contributing to the operational and logistical costs of the operations against jihadist terrorism conducted by the national armed forces of Mauritania, Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger and Chad, within the framework of peacekeeping operations in the Sahel- Saharan area and by taking a similar approach to the one it takes to financing the G5 Joint Forces and the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISON);
Amendment 270 #
2020/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Recommends that any financing of capacity-building operations for African countries is conditional on an action plan, which includes training on security sector reform, human rights, international humanitarian law, and the rule of law, with reasonable deadlines with the possibility of further adjustments depending on the evolution of the situation;
Amendment 275 #
2020/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 – introductory part
Paragraph 10 – introductory part
10. Calls for the format of the EUTM Mali, EUTM CAR and EUTM Somalia training missions to be redefined to better adapt them to the real needs of the armed forces and those of the populations of the beneficiary countries by:
Amendment 288 #
2020/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 – point b
Paragraph 10 – point b
b) ensuring that instructors are able, in coordination with the local military authorities, to select soldiers from among those proposed by the local governments, to train them to be capable fighters, and to supervise and accompany themmentor local soldiers on the ground once they have finished their training in order to assess them and prevent units from disbanding and soldiers from dispersing;
Amendment 300 #
2020/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 – point d a (new)
Paragraph 10 – point d a (new)
d a) putting in place a Human Rights monitoring mechanism to prevent Human Rights violations;
Amendment 307 #
2020/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Believes that the EU must conduct a comprehensive evaluation, and put in place proper monitoring systems and oversight, of the EUCAP Sahel Mali, EUCAP Sahel Niger, EUCAP Somalia and EUAM CAR civilian missions, adapting them to real needs in order to make them fully operational and effective;
Amendment 313 #
2020/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Considers that the Government of Somalia is unable to perform its duties and that the Somali army is also unable to counter al-Shabab’s terrorist activities and is not yet ready to take over from AMISOM; recalls that the Somali army waRecalls that the Somali army is supposed to take over from AMISOM in December 2021; underlines that the achievement of that objective requires a new and comprehensive assistance programme to the government and the army of Somalia;
Amendment 324 #
2020/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Calls for the EU to help the joint forces of the G5 Sahel to become operational through the direct provision of financial assistance for the acquisition of adequate weapons and military equipment; calls on the partners who made pledges at the Brussels Donors’ Conference on 22 February 2018 to implement them expeditiously;
Amendment 331 #
2020/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Believes that the African states have to take responsibility for fulfilling their sovereign duties in all areas cleared of jihadterrorists, traffickers and banditcriminal and armed groups by providing basic services (administration, water and power supply, health, justice, education), even if some of these services should be temporarily provided by the army or security forces, until such time as the civil administration takes overwith the proper security environment provided by the army or security forces;
Amendment 336 #
2020/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Supports the African Union request to the United Nations Security Council for the G5 Sahel joint force and AMISON to be placed under Chapter VII of the UN Charter in order to benefit from sustainable funding;
Amendment 342 #
2020/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Stresses that coordination with the countries of North Africa is desirable as well as an effective contribution to peace and reconciliation in Libya in order to prevent it from becoming a hotspot for the spread of jihadismterrorist, criminal and armed groups, arms and human trafficking;
Amendment 358 #
2020/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Welcomes the efforts of Mauritania to take a social and development approach to its military and security response; expresses its solidarity with Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso, countries that are deeply affected by terrorism; compliments the efforts and sacrifices of the international community, the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali, the Multinational Joint Task Force, the G5 and the French Armed Forces (Operation Barkhane), and EUTM Mali and the Chadian Army, which is the essential force in the central and east sectors of the G5 requiring special support for its battalions;
Amendment 381 #
Amendment 386 #
2020/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. States that there can be no security strategy without joint developmentsustainable development and humanitarian action;
Amendment 390 #
2020/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Believes that the European Union should ensure that sustainable development plans are multi-sectoral and provide a global solution to the challenges of the region concerned; stresses that an integrated approach to peace, security and sustainable development requires the meaningful involvement of local civil society actors, and especially of women and young people; is of the opinion that these plans must be adopted by the administration in agreement with the local beneficiary communities and implemented with the participation of humanitarian organisations and local civil society organisations to ensure effective coordination and ownership;
Amendment 402 #
2020/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25 – introductory part
Paragraph 25 – introductory part
25. Considers that the development of Africa should bea meaningful security cooperation between the EU and Africa must be built upon sustainable development, and especially focused on:
Amendment 407 #
2020/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25 – point a
Paragraph 25 – point a
a) consolidating democracy by ensuring a real parliamentary system, its institutions and the rule of law, guaranteeing all civil society liberties;
Amendment 410 #
2020/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25 – point a a (new)
Paragraph 25 – point a a (new)
a a) ending conflicts and preventing their recurrence while addressing their root causes in order to achieve long lasting peace and security;
Amendment 415 #
2020/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25 – point b
Paragraph 25 – point b
b) empowering women by recognising them as agents of change and their role as the centre of gravity ofin African families andhouseholds and communities, promoting their participation in local and national institutions; and decision-making, and fostering their role in peace-building, conflict prevention and mediation;
Amendment 428 #
2020/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25 – point c
Paragraph 25 – point c
c) providing basic services such as food security, health, and education to increase people’s confidence in the stateccess to basic hygiene, social protection and education;
Amendment 434 #
2020/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25 – point d
Paragraph 25 – point d
d) ensuring administrative and legal stability and fighting poverty and corruption;
Amendment 439 #
2020/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25 – point d b (new)
Paragraph 25 – point d b (new)
d a) fighting poverty and corruption;
Amendment 449 #
2020/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
26. Expresses its deep concern that the current security crisis in Africa could lead to a massive displacement of the population, undermining North African states and affecting Europe;
Amendment 470 #
2020/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27
Paragraph 27
27. Considers it essential to provide extraordinary assistance to the regions concerned in view of the extraordinary challenge presented by the COVID-19 pandemic and to adapt current programmes and projects to this new challenge by demonstrating flexibility and adaptability to the situation;
Amendment 475 #
2020/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28
Paragraph 28
28. Recommends that the EU, together with the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank, intervenes on a financial level to help control debt and the payment of interest; calls for all possibilities to be explored, in view of the COVID-19 pandemic and its consequences, for debt relief, debt suspension and debt sustainability for African countries;
Amendment 12 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 19 a (new)
Citation 19 a (new)
— having regard to the Joint Comprehensive Planof Action (JCPOA),
Amendment 13 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 19 b (new)
Citation 19 b (new)
— having regard to the E3 statement on the JCPOA of 19 August 2021,
Amendment 20 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas in the current tense geopolitical context, key arms control treaties that came into force at the end of the Cold War have recently been dismantled; whereas in a world of global interdependence, the EU's security cannot be achieved without renewed global arms control and disarmament efforts;
Amendment 23 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas the EU aims to be a global actor for peace and supports the rules-based international order; whereas arms control and nuclear non- proliferation were at the very root of the start of the EU project, notably with EURATOM; whereas the EU, through its Strategy against Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD), is proactively contributing to the prevention of the use and proliferation of WMDs;
Amendment 27 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas in more than fifty years of its existence, the Treaty on the Non- Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) with its three mutually reinforcing pillars has proven to be a cornerstone of global nuclear arms control architecture and an effective tool to uphold international peace and security, by ensuring the compliance by the vast majority of signatory states with their non-proliferation obligations through implementation of stringent safeguards and norms against the acquisition of nuclear weapons;
Amendment 29 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has been playing an instrumental role in the implementation of the NPT; whereas the Additional Protocol (AP), substantially expands the IAEA’s ability to check for clandestine nuclear facilities;
Amendment 30 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas tensions and dislack of trust among NPT parties have been increasing in the recent years; , exacerbated by growing deterioration of bilateral US-Russian relations and subsequent steps taken to reassess the nuclear factor in military doctrines; whereas the NPT Review Conference has been postpones due to the COVID-19 pandemic; whereas the US and the Russian Federation committed to an integrated Strategic Stability Dialogue on 16 June 2021;
Amendment 41 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H
Recital H
H. whereas the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) washad been an achievement of multilateral diplomacy led by the EU; whereas the US and Iran have begun indirect negotiations with a view tof their return to the JCPOA, which have been interrupted by Iran; whereas Iran has ceased the application of the aAdditional pProtocol;
Amendment 42 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. whereas the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) has not yet been universally ratified; whereas the EU has been consistently promoting the contribution of the CTBT Treaty to peace, security, disarmament and non- proliferation;
Amendment 46 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K
Recital K
K. whereas following the collapse of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty, the US and Russia are now no longer prohibited from building and deploying this category of weapons and from engaging in a new arms race; whereas Russia recently moved several nuclear-capable, ballistic missile systems believed to be capable of exceeding the range of 500 km;
Amendment 50 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital L a (new)
Recital L a (new)
L a. whereas the voluntary unilateral measures, the Presidential Nuclear Initiatives (PNIs), have led to substantial reductions of both the US and Russian deployed arsenal;
Amendment 51 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital L b (new)
Recital L b (new)
Amendment 57 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital N
Recital N
N. whereas since the withdrawal of the UK from the EU, France is now the only nuclear Member StateFrance and the UK both share the view that minimum, credible nuclear deterrence is essential to Europe’s and NATO's collective security; whereas since the withdrawal of the UK from the EU, France is now the only Member State being a nuclear State; whereas France offered to launch a strategic dialogue with willing EU partners on the role played by France’s nuclear deterrence in the EU collective security and to associate those Member States to French exercises;
Amendment 63 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital O
Recital O
O. whereas a number of middle powers have acquired the scientific, technological and industrial capabilities required to produce ballistic and cruise missiles; whereas India and Pakistan, states outside the NPT framework, have declared themselves to be in possession of nuclear weapons;
Amendment 67 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital Q
Recital Q
Q. whereas the Open Skies Treaty, in force since 2002, was intended to build trust, confidence and mutual understanding between Russia and the US and its European allies; whereas Russia has failed for many years to comply with its obligations under the Open Skies Treaty; whereas the US and Russia have successively withdrawn from the treaty;
Amendment 70 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital R
Recital R
R. whereas the Chemical Weapons Convention is the world’s first multilateral disarmament agreement to provide for the elimination of an entire category of weapons of mass destruction; whereas in the past decade, the ethical norm against the use of chemical weapons has begun to show alarming signs of erosion; whereas the CWC needs to adapt to the new industrial production processes, innovative chemical industry and the emergency of new actors;
Amendment 73 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital S
Recital S
S. whereas the EU has been fully engaged in international efforts to improve bio-safety and bio-diversity through the implementation of the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention; whereas 13 countries are not yet parties to the Convention; whereas the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC) was agreed without on- site verification mechanisms to ensure compliance;
Amendment 79 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital T a (new)
Recital T a (new)
T a. whereas the emergence of humanitarian disarmament has positively challenged the traditional disarmament practices inherited from the Cold War;
Amendment 80 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital T b (new)
Recital T b (new)
T b. whereas the number of women involved in efforts aimed at eliminating WMD remains alarmingly low, including in the areas of non-proliferation and disarmament (NPD) diplomacy;
Amendment 82 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital U
Recital U
U. whereas climate-related risks could negatively affect our strategic security environment; whereas WMD disarmament and non-proliferation efforts can contribute to sustainable development; and to the protection of livelihoods and of the environment;
Amendment 86 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital V
Recital V
V. whereas the COVID-19 pandemic has shown the need to increase EU chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear defence (CBRN) preparedness, to build a CBRN pool of expertise and to foster the link between health and security;
Amendment 97 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2 a. Is deeply concerned about the decision taken by several states amid ongoing growing tensions among major powers to reassess the nuclear factor in their national doctrines and modernise and diversify their arsenal; welcomes the intention of the US to assess, in the framework of the ongoing Nuclear Posture Review, possible ways to reduce the salience of nuclear weapons in its national security strategy;
Amendment 98 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Reaffirms its full support to the NPT; expects nuclear-weapon states to take steps to demonstrate their genuine commitment to nuclear disarmament; exhorts States Parties to do their utmost to contribute to a successful and ambitious outcome of the upcoming 10th Review Conference; and its three mutually reinforcing pillars as one of the most universally accepted legally binding instruments and a cornerstone of nuclear non- proliferation regime; recalls that the Treaty contributed to uphold a broad set of norms related to disarmament and peaceful use of nuclear energy, while enforcing the nuclear non-proliferation norm; expects nuclear-weapon states to take steps to demonstrate their genuine commitment to nuclear disarmament, including via setting realistic goals under the Art. VI of the Treaty, and well as by strengthening the non-proliferation norm and expanding the IAEA’s safeguards capacity; warns that the future of the NPT should not be taken for granted and exhorts States Parties to do their utmost to contribute to a successful and ambitious outcome of the upcoming 10th Review Conference by agreeing on a substantive final declaration that would contribute to further strengthening the Treaty and would be a key element in preserving strategic stability and containing a new arms race; calls on all States to sign, accede to and remain committed to the NPT;
Amendment 104 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Insists on the need to ensure that the EU plays a strong and constructive role in developing and reinforcing the global rules-based non-proliferation efforts and arms control and disarmament architecture; welcomes the work of the Special Envoy for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation in this respect; calls on the Council to strive towards the EU speaking with one voice in international disarmament, non- proliferation and arms control forums; underlines the need to use the work undertaken in the framework of the Strategic Compass to fully take the questions of WMD proliferation into the joint understanding of threats and achieve a common strategic culture on this issue;
Amendment 109 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Amendment 111 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. CUnderlines the crucial importance of training and awareness raising, therefore calls for the available expertise in non-proliferation and arms control in the EU to be strengthened and the training of EU and Member State personnel to be improved; welcomes continued financial support to the European Nuclear Education Network (ENEN), the EU non- proliferation and disarmament consortium and the European Nuclear Security Training Centre (EUSECTRA); underlines the potential for synergies in training and education projects with the European Security and Defence College; calls on further investing in disarmament education and on facilitating youth engagement;
Amendment 116 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Calls on EU Delegations to put the question of disarmament, non- proliferation and arms control high on the agenda of Political Dialogue with third countries, in order for the EU to assist efforts to universalise existing treaties and instruments; asks the European External Action Service to also work on strengthening the training and capacity- building of our partnersclosest partners, notably the Neighbourhood and Enlargement countries, in the areas of disarmament, non proliferation and arms control; praises the EU CBRN risk mitigation Centres of Excellence initiative, funded under the NDICI, in this respect;
Amendment 121 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. UWelcomes NATO’s commitment to the goal of creating the conditions for a world without nuclear weapons, and its support and facilitation of dialogue among Allies and partners to implement their non-proliferation obligations; underlines that NATO Allies remain committed to creating the conditions for the further reduction of the nuclear arsenal on the basis of reciprocity and calls for constructive and trustworthy dialogue in this respect in the relevant international and bilateral forums;
Amendment 124 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Stresses its full support for the work of the UN Office for Disarmament Affairs, for the UN Secretary-General’s ambitious Agenda for Disarmament and for the multilateral deliberative processes and negotiations under the auspices of the UN; underlines the need to ensure the involvement of all stakeholders, civil society and academia and the meaningful and diverse participation of citizens in disarmament and non-proliferation debates; supports the confidence-building measures set out by the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe as important contributions to limiting misunderstanding or miscalculation and ensuring greater openness and transparency;
Amendment 128 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Welcomes the EU’s commitment to establishing a WMD-free zone in the Middle East, and the promotion of confidence-building measures in support of this process;
Amendment 139 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Recalls the central role played by the IAEA as a guarantor of the compliance by the participating States with the provisions of the NPT Treaty; highlights that the Agency’s verification activities are instrumental in preventing the spread of nuclear weapons; calls on the states that have not yet done so to ratify the IAEA additional protocol without delay;
Amendment 142 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 a (new)
Paragraph 11 a (new)
11 a. Highlights the IAEA’s crucial role in monitoring and verifying Iran’s compliance with the safeguard agreement, and praises in particular the key role it has been playing since 23 February 2021, by implementing a temporary bilateral technical understanding reached with Iran, allowing for the IEAE to continue with its necessary verification and monitoring activities;
Amendment 143 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Reaffirms its full support for the JCPOA as a key element of the global nuclear non-proliferation architecture, stressing that a full implementation of the agreement is crucial for European security, as well as for the stability and security in the Middle East and worldwide; welcomes the EU’s continued engagement with Iran on issues related to civil nuclear cooperation, and the measures taken to implement projects to improve nuclear safety under the Annex III of the JOPOA; exhorts Iran to immediately cease its nuclear activities violating the JCPOA, which should go hand-in-hand with the lifting of all nuclear-related sanctions; calls on all parties to return to the negotiations with a view to returning to full and effective compliance with the agreement;
Amendment 146 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Confirms that the entry into force and ratification of the CTBT as a strong trust and confidence-building instrument continues to be an important objective of the EU’s Strategy against Proliferation of WMD; welcomes EU’s diplomatic efforts to reach out to non-signatory countries in view of soliciting their commitment for the ratification of the Treaty and universal adherence to it; welcomes the Union’s support, including via financial contribution, for the activities of the Preparatory Commission for the CTBT Organisation aimed at strengthening its verification and monitoring capabilities;
Amendment 150 #
2020/2001(INI)
14. Reiterates its longstanding support for the launch of negotiations on the FMCT, and calls on all nuclear-weapon states that have not yet done so to adopt an immediate moratorium on the production of fissile material for nuclear weapons and other nuclear explosive devices; welcomes the financial support provided by the EU to the UN Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) to facilitate the participation of African, Asian and Latin American and Caribbean countries to the FMCT related activities;
Amendment 152 #
2020/2001(INI)
15. Reiterates its deep regret at the withdrawal from the INF Treaty by the US and the Russian Federation following Russia’s persistent failure to comply with the treaty, which led to its termination; is particularly concerned about possible re- emergence of ground-based intermediate- range missiles in the European theatre of operations in the post-INF context; underlines its strong opposition to a new arms race and re-militarisation on European soil; welcomes the commitment made by the US and Russia to continue working towards the achievement of their stated common goal of ensuring predictability in the strategic domain and reducing the risks of armed conflict and the threat of nuclear war; urges both sides to use this momentum to set realistic basis for re-launching negotiations about new arms control architecture and risk reduction measures that would take into account the changing geo-political context and emergence of new powers; calls on all other countries, notably China, in possession or in the process of the development of missile systems to engage in efforts to multilateralise and universalise the successor treaty to the INF;
Amendment 160 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Warmly welcomes the decision taken by the US and the Russian Federation to extend the New START Treaty; as an important contribution to the upcoming 10th NPT review conference, and to the implementation of the Article VI of the Treaty; highlights that the extension of the New START might provide a foundation for a negotiation of a new arms control agreement that would encompass both deployed and non- deployed, as well as strategic and non- strategic weapons; invites both signatories to thoroughly assess all options in relation with the scope, deployment and category of weapons to be covered, and advocates the involvement of other nuclear-armed countries, notably China, in negotiations on any new arms control agreement;
Amendment 166 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. NHighlights the importance of the Presidential Nuclear Initiatives (PNIs) with the aim of reducing deployed short- range “tactical” nuclear weapons; notes with concern the ongoing Russian modernisation programmes which raise questions about Russian compliance with the objectives of the Presidential Nuclear Initiatives; recalls that the PNI’s, despite their non-binding nature, have played an instrumental role in arms control architecture and calls on both the US and the Russian Federation to stick to their commitments in relation to non-strategic nuclear weapons and to ensure transparency on arsenals, deployments and the status of their respective weapons;
Amendment 176 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Highlights that the international community must work on active measures to counter the adverse strategic implications of cruise-missile proliferation; calls on states possessing significant numbers of cruise missiles to focus, as a first step, on confidence and transparency measures, including i.a. negotiation and adoption of codes of conduct for deployment and use of cruise missiles; calls on the VP/HR to engage in dialogue with exporting states in view of fully adhering to and coordinating efforts through the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR), the only existing multilateral arrangement that covers the transfer of missiles and missile-related equipment;
Amendment 180 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Welcomes the efforts made by the Vice President of the European Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy to promote the universalisation of the HCoC, the only multilateral transparency and confidence-building instrument in the area of proliferation of ballistic missiles, in view of further contributing to efforts to contain the proliferation of ballistic missiles capable of delivering weapons of mass destruction; calls on VP/HR to lead efforts towards greater cooperation between the HCoC and other arms control instruments;
Amendment 183 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Stresses the crucial role played by the Open Skies Treaty in transatlantic relations and its valuable contribution to global arms control architecture, trust- building and transparency about military activities carried out by signatory states; highlights that the US withdrawal has hindered smaller European states’ capacity to monitor their neighbours and hold them accountable for their military activities; regrets the recent adoption, by the Russian State Duma, of a bill of withdrawal from the Open Skies Treaty; calls on the remaining signatories to continue implementing the treaty; urges the US and the Russian Federation to resume talks with a view to returning to the treaty and to its full, effective and verifiable implementation;
Amendment 186 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Is alarmed at the threat posed by chemical warfare following the most significant and sustained use of chemical weapons in decades is particularly worried by the increased capability of some State and non-State actors to produce forbidden chemical agent more rapidly, and with limited indicators for detection; insists on the need to uphold the global ethical norm against chemical weapons by preventing impunity for their use; calls to make effective use of the newly adopted EU Global Human Rights sanction regime in this respect; welcomes the adoption by the Council of a horizontal sanctions regime to address the growing use and proliferation of chemical weapons; reiterates its grave concern at the attempted assassination of Alexei Navalny using a banned nerve agent, considered as use of a chemical weapons under the CWC; welcomes the sanctions imposed on Russian officials on 14 October 2020 in response to this blatant violation of international norms;
Amendment 193 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Praises the instrumental role the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons has been playing in the verified destruction of chemical agents; strongly condemns the use of chemical weapons by the Syrian Arab Republic; welcomes the decision taken at the twenty- Fifth Session of the Conference of the States Parties to the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) to suspend certain rights and privileges of Syria under the OPCW;
Amendment 198 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Reiterates its full support for the BWC; welcomes the financial contribution provided by the EU directly to the BTWC and in support of strengthening bio-safety outside the EU; calls on the VP/HR to continue his efforts to promote the universalisation of the convention; points to the need to step up efforts to put in place a legally binding mechanism to verify compliance with the BWC;
Amendment 200 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 a (new)
Paragraph 23 a (new)
23 a. Underlines the important work carried out by EU SatCen in using space assets, satellite imagery and geospatial intelligence to monitor compliance to WMD disarmament and non-proliferation commitments;
Amendment 201 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. RIs concerned about DPRK’s continued nuclear and ballistic activities in violation of numerous UNSC Resolutions, and DPKR’s development of new capabilities; reiterates its will to work towards achieving a complete, irreversible and verifiable denuclearisation of the Korean peninsula; urges the DPRK to immediately abandon its nuclear and missile activities, fully comply with all relevant UNSC Resolutions, swiftly sign and ratify the CTBT and return to compliance with the NPT;
Amendment 205 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
25. Points to the rapid advances in the development of artificial intelligence- enabled systems in the military domain; reiterates therefore its call on the EU to take the lead on international regulatory efforts to ensure that the development and application of AI for military uses stay within the strict limits set by international law, including international humanitarian law (IHL) and human rights law, and to pave the way to global negotiations with a view to updating all existing arms control, disarmament and non-proliferation instruments so as to take AI-enabled systems used in warfare into account; underlines that emerging technologies not covered by international law should be judged by the principle of humanity and the dictates of public conscience; calls on the VP/HR, the Member States and the European Council to adopt a joint position on autonomous weapons systems that ensures meaningful human control over the critical functions of weapons systems; insists on the launch of international negotiations on a legally binding instrument that would prohibit fully autonomous weapons;
Amendment 209 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
26. Calls for the equal, full and meaningful participation of women in NPT forums to be ensured, including disarmament diplomacy and in all decision-making processes related to disarmament;
Amendment 213 #
2020/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27
Paragraph 27
27. Points to the need to take additional measures to fight the financing of the proliferation of WMD to disrupt technological and knowledge transfer to non-State hostile actors, as well as to the threat that CBRN terrorism could represent for our collective security; points to the need for the EU to foster responsible science, in order to prevent misuse of scientific research and experiment ;underlines the need to combat CBRN material smuggling and illicit trafficking and to prevent diversion risks; invites the EEAS and the Commission to tackle this issue in the expected Joint communication on a strategic approach to support the disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration of ex-combatants (DDR);
Amendment 83 #
2020/0300(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) Environment action programmes have successfully guided the development of EU environment policy since the early 1970s. The 7th EAP will expire on 31 December 2020 and its Article 4 (3) requires the Commission, if appropriate, to present a proposal for an Eighth Environment Action Programme (8th EAP) in a timely manner with a view to avoiding a gap between the 7th and the 8th EAP. The European Green Deal announced the adoption of a new environment action programme.
Amendment 85 #
2020/0300(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) The 8th EAP should support the environment and climate action objectives of the European Green Deal in line with the long-term objective to “live well, within the planetary boundaries” by 2050, which is already established in the 7th EAP. It should contribute to achieving the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development Goals, while also making sure the shift towards more sustainable farming practices and food systems leaves no-one behind.
Amendment 93 #
2020/0300(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 9
Recital 9
(9) The 8th EAP should accelerate the transition to a regenerative economy that gives back to the planet more than it takes. A regenerative growth model recognises that the wellbeing and prosperity of our societies depend on a stable climate, a healthy environment and thriving ecosystems, which provide a safe operating space for our economies. As the global population and the demand for natural resources continues to grow, economic activity should develop in a way that does no harm but, on the contrary, reverses climate change and environmental degradation, minimises pollution and results in maintaining and enriching natural capital, therefore ensuring the abundance of renewable and non-renewable resources. Through continuous and stopping the loss of biodiversity. Through continuous technological and social innovation, adaptation to new challenges and co-creation, the regenerative economy strengthens resilience and protects present and future generations’ wellbeing.
Amendment 97 #
2020/0300(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) The 8th EAP should set out thematic priority objectives in areas of climate neutrality, adaption to climate change, protecting and restoring biodiversity, circular economy, the zero pollution ambition and reducing environmental pressures from production and consumption. It should furthermore identify the enabling conditions to achieve the long-term and the thematic priority objectives for all actors involved, while also taking into account the achievements of EU in recent decades, which include already significant reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
Amendment 106 #
2020/0300(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 11
Recital 11
(11) Environment policy being highly decentralised, action to achieve the priority objectives of the 8th EAP should be taken at different levels of governance, i.e. at the European, the national, the regional and the local level, with a collaborative approach to multi-level governance. The integrated approach to policy development and implementation should be strengthened with a view to maximising the synergies between economic, environmental and social objectives, while paying careful attention to potential trade-offs and to the needs of vulnerable groups. Moreover, transparent engagement with local and regional governments, as well as non- governmental actors is important for ensuring the success of the 8th EAP and the achievement of its priority objectives.
Amendment 110 #
2020/0300(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 12
Recital 12
(12) Enhanced cooperation with partner countries, trade policy based on sustainability and high standards of production, particularly in the food and feed sector, good global environmental governance as well as synergies between internal and external Union policies are key to reach the Union’s environmental and climate objectives.
Amendment 126 #
2020/0300(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 1 – paragraph 2
Article 1 – paragraph 2
2. The 8th EAP aims at accelerating the transition to a climate-neutral, resource-efficient, clean and circular economy in a just and inclusive way, and endorsesbuilds upon the environmental and climate objectives of the European Green Deal and its initiatives, while recognising the effects of previous and current EU efforts for a more sustainable, climate and environmentally friendly economy.
Amendment 132 #
2020/0300(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 1 – paragraph 3
Article 1 – paragraph 3
3. The 8th EAP forms the basis for achieving the environmental and climate objectives defined under the United Nations 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development Goals and its monitoring framework constitutes the environment and climate part of the EU’s efforts to measure progress towards greater sustainability, including climate neutrality and resource efficiency, wellbeing and resilience, maintaining food security and strengthening economic viability for communities most affected by the transition to a more sustainable economy.
Amendment 141 #
2020/0300(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 2 – paragraph 1
Article 2 – paragraph 1
1. The 8th EAP has the long-term priority objective for 2050 that citizens live well, within the planetary boundaries in a regenerative economy where nothing is wasted, no net emissions of greenhouse gases are produced and economic growth is decoupled from resource use and environmental degradation. A healthy environment underpins the well-being of citizens, ensures that biodiversity thrives and natural capital is protected, restored and valued in ways that enhance resilience to climate change and other environmental risks. The Union sets the pace for ensuring the prosperity of present and future generations globally.
Amendment 145 #
2020/0300(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – point a
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – point a
(a) irreversible, continuous and gradual reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and enhancement of removals by natural and other sinks in the Union to attain the 2030 greenhouse gas emission reduction target and achieve climate neutrality by 2050 as laid down in Regulation (EU) …/…32 ; _________________ 32 COM/2020/80 final.
Amendment 147 #
2020/0300(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – point b
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – point b
(b) continuous progress in enhancing adaptive capacity, strengthening resilience and reducing vulnerability to climate changeof agriculture and food systems to climate change, while putting sufficient emphasis on the social dimension of the transition;
Amendment 150 #
2020/0300(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – point c
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – point c
(c) advancing towards a regenerative growth model that gives back to the planet more than it takes, decoupling economic growth from resource use and environmental degradation, and accelerating the transition to a circular economy, while also promoting recovery of materials, improved and increased recycling of secondary raw materials, reduction of landfills, improvement of waste management infrastructure, and introduction of low-waste technologies;
Amendment 162 #
2020/0300(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – point f
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – point f
(f) promoting environmental sustainability and reducing key environmental and climate pressures related to production and consumption, in particular in the areas of energy, industrial development, buildings and infrastructure, mobility and the food system, including all parts of the food supply chain.
Amendment 174 #
2020/0300(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point b – indent 3
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point b – indent 3
— paying careful attention to synergies and potential trade-offs between economic, environmental and social objectives so as to ensure that citizens’ needs for affordable and quality nutrition, housing and mobility are met in a sustainable way that leaves no- one behind;
Amendment 179 #
2020/0300(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point b – indent 4
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point b – indent 4
— regularly evaluating existing policies and preparing impact assessments for new initiatives, which are based on wide consultations, particularly with all governance levels and social partners, following procedures that are accountable, inclusive, informed and simple to implement, and which pay due regard to projected impacts on environment and climate;
Amendment 184 #
2020/0300(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point d
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point d
(d) mobilising sustainable investments from public and private sources, including of funds and instruments available under the Union budget, via the European Investment Bank and at national level, while ensuring wide accessibility of financial instruments, especially to SMEs, small and medium farms and young farmers;
Amendment 193 #
2020/0300(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point f
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point f
(f) ensuring that environmental policies and action are based on the best available scientific knowledge and strengthening the environmental knowledge base and its uptake, including by research, innovation, fostering green skills, and further building up environmental and ecosystem accounting, assessing any current barriers for the use of innovative agricultural techniques and increasing access to scientific innovation;
Amendment 202 #
2020/0300(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point g
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point g
(g) harnessing the potential of digital and data technologies to support environment policy while minimising their environmental footprint, ensuring access to digital and data technologies;
Amendment 204 #
2020/0300(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point h
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – point h
(h) making full use of nature based solutions and social innovation, encouraging different types of cooperation in agriculture;
Amendment 216 #
2020/0300(COD)
— ensuring that the Union and the Member States’ financial assistance to third countries promotes the Sustainable Development Goals in the UN 2030 Agenda.
Amendment 220 #
2020/0300(COD)
Proposal for a decision
Article 4 – paragraph 1
Article 4 – paragraph 1
1. The Commission, supported by the European Environment Agency and the European Chemicals Agency, shall regularly assess and report on the progress of the Union and the Member States with regard to achieving the priority objectives laid down in Article 2 on a regular basis, taking into consideration the enabling conditions laid down in Article 3.
Amendment 17 #
2020/0006(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) The regulatory framework governing the Union’s cohesion policy for the period from 2021 to 2027, in the context of the next multi-annual financial framework, contributes to the fulfilment of the Union’s commitments to implement the Paris Agreement and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by concentrating Union funding on green objectives as well as the European Pillar of Social Rights. This Regulation implements one of the priorities set out in the Communication on the European Green Deal (‘the European Green Deal’)11 and is part of the Sustainable Europe Investment Plan12 providing dedicated financing under the Just Transition Mechanism in the context of cohesion policy to address the economic and social costs of the transition to a climate-neutral and circular economy, where any remaining greenhouse gas emissions are compensated by equivalent absorptions. _________________ 11 COM(2019) 640 final, 11.12.2019. 12 COM(2020) 21, 14.1.2020.
Amendment 34 #
2020/0006(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) In order to be successful, the transition has to be fair, inclusive and socially acceptable for all. Therefore, both the Union and the Member States must take into account its economic and social implications from the outset, and deploy all possible instruments to mitigate adverse consequences. The Union budget has an important role in that regard.
Amendment 54 #
2020/0006(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6 a (new)
Recital 6 a (new)
(6 a) The transition to a climate neutral and sustainable society is one of the most important common objectives of the Union, where the shared efforts by all are essential to its achievement. As such, access to the JTF should be conditional to the acceptance of a national objective of climate neutrality by 2050, as well as of the intermediate targets for 2030.
Amendment 112 #
2020/0006(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 15 a (new)
Recital 15 a (new)
(15 a) Member States should favour the adoption of bottom-up strategies in the preparation and implementation of the territorial just transition plans, ensuring the active participation of the relevant public authorities, economic and social partners from all sectors of activity, and other relevant civil society stakeholders, including from the agricultural sector. For an effective action at local level, the stakeholders at the level of the territories affected should, where feasible, be actively involved in the preparation of the territorial just transition plans.
Amendment 148 #
2020/0006(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point a
Article 4 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point a
(a) productive investments in SMEs, including start-ups, leading to job creation, economic diversification and reconversion;
Amendment 204 #
2020/0006(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point j a (new)
Article 4 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point j a (new)
(j a) the creation and development of social services of general interest;
Amendment 208 #
2020/0006(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point k a (new)
Article 4 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1 – point k a (new)
(k a) capacity building to collect, harmonise and disseminate data on labour.
Amendment 253 #
2020/0006(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 2 – point a
Article 7 – paragraph 2 – point a
(a) a description of the transition process at national level towards a climate- neutral economy, including a timeline for key transition steps which are consistent with the latest version of the National Energy and Climate Plan (‘NECP’). The transition process at national level shall be aligned with the net zero emissions target for 2050 and intermediate targets for 2030;
Amendment 259 #
2020/0006(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 2 – point c
Article 7 – paragraph 2 – point c
(c) an assessment of the transition challenges faced by the most negatively affected territories, including the social, economic, and environmental impact of the transition to a climate-neutral economy, identifying the potential number of affected jobs and job losses, the development needs and objectives, to be reached by 2030 linked to the transformation or closure of greenhouse gas-intensive activities in those territories and the challenges regarding energy poverty;
Amendment 5 #
2019/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4 a (new)
Citation 4 a (new)
- having regard to Euronest Parliamentary Assembly resolution of 9 December 2019 on the future of the Trio Plus Strategy 2030: building a future of Eastern Partnership,
Amendment 13 #
2019/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 8
Citation 8
– having regard to its resolutions of 18 September 2014 on the situation in Ukraine and state of play of EU-Russia relations3a, of 15 January 2015 on the situation in Ukraine3b, of 15 April 2015 on the centenary of the Armenian Genocide4 , of 9 July 2015 on the review of the European Neighbourhood Policy5 , of 21 January 2016 on Association Agreements / Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Areas with Georgia, the Republic of Moldova and Ukraine6 , of 23 November 2016 on EU strategic communication to counteract propaganda against it by third parties7 , of 13 December 2016 on rights of women in the Eastern Partnership States8 , of 16 March 2017 on Ukrainian political prisoners in Russia and situation in Crimea3c, of 19 April 2018 on Belarus9 , of 14 June 2018 on Georgian occupied territories 10 years after the Russian invasion10 , of 4 July 2018 on the draft Council decision on the conclusion, on behalf of the Union, of the Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement between the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community and their Member States, of the one part, and the Republic of Armenia, of the other part11 , of 4 October 2018 on the deterioration of media freedom in Belarus, notably the case of Charter 9712 , of 14 November 2018 on the implementation of the EU Association Agreement with Moldova13 , of 14 November 2018 on the implementation of the EU Association Agreement with Georgia14 and of 12 December 2018 on the implementation of the EU Association Agreement with Ukraine15 , __________________ 3a Texts adopted, P8_TA(2014)0025. 3b Texts adopted, P8_TA(2015)0011. 3c Texts adopted, P8_TA(2017)0087. 4 OJ C 328, 6.9.2016, p. 2. 5 OJ C 265, 11.8.2017, p. 110. 6 OJ C 11, 12.1.2018, p. 82. 7 OJ C 224, 27.6.2018, p. 58. 8 OJ C 238, 6.7.2018, p. 42. 9 OJ C 390, 18.11.2019, p. 100. 10 OJ C 28, 27.1.2020, p. 97. 11 Texts adopted, P8_TA(2018)0284. 12 Texts adopted, P8_TA(2018)0375. 13 Texts adopted, P8_TA(2018)0458. 14 Texts adopted, P8_TA(2018)0457. 15 Texts adopted, P8_TA(2018)0518.
Amendment 20 #
2019/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital -A (new)
Recital -A (new)
-A. whereas for the foreseeable future the EU remains the dominant political and economic power of Europe, and this generates responsibility towards its neighbours;
Amendment 32 #
2019/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas cooperation between the EU and allthe EaP countries is not a linear process by all means, and cooperation can be achieved and maintained only in so far as those core values and principles are respected, moreover, in serious cases it can be reversed;
Amendment 39 #
2019/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
Ba. whereas to improve economic and political stabilization of the region the EU should strengthen the political and economic cooperation with the EaP countries, moreover the EU should verify whether the principles of democracy and the rule of law are adhered to;
Amendment 51 #
2019/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C a (new)
Recital C a (new)
Ca. whereas a "more for more" and "less for less" approach in the bilateral relations between the EU and the EaP countries is welcome, now it is time to provide the EaP countries that signed an Association Agreement with DCFTA with the EU with clearer guidance on specific reform priorities, alignment criteria and on the next steps in the EU integration process;
Amendment 59 #
2019/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas there is a necessity to encourage the development of closer relations with the EU and to set out a tailor made strategy for the most advanced EaP countries to support and sustain an ambitious pace of implementation of European integration reforms and that even more advanced forms of cooperation and integration are possible, provided that comprehensive reforms are implemented in a timely and sustainable manner;
Amendment 66 #
2019/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D a (new)
Recital D a (new)
Da. whereas on the occasion of the 10th anniversary of the EaP the European Council emphasized the importance of the strategic partnership with the EaP countries and called upon the Commission and the Vice President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy to make long-term policy proposals in order to prepare the June 2020 Summit;
Amendment 71 #
2019/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of the EU’s Eastern European Partners are still imperilled by unresolved regional conflicts, the Eastern Partnership pursues the common goals of good neighbourly relations and regional cooperation as well as peaceful resolution of all ongoing conflicts within existing agreed negotiating formats and principles based on the norms and principles of international law, the UN Charter and the Helsinki Final Act;
Amendment 90 #
2019/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F a (new)
Recital F a (new)
Fa. whereas the European Parliament backs the EU’s continued support of the efforts of the OSCE Minsk Group Co- Chairs to achieve progress in the search for a political, equitable and lasting settlement of the conflict in Nagorno- Karabakh; whereas this process continues to be based on the principles of territorial integrity, non-use of force, and equal rights and self-determination as enshrined in the Helsinki Final Act;
Amendment 97 #
2019/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F a (new)
Recital F a (new)
Fa. whereas the success of transformation in the EaP countries, in particular of the three associated partner countries, can yield positive example for other countries;
Amendment 113 #
2019/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point a
Paragraph 1 – point a
(a) acknowledge and strive for a continuous impetus to effective cooperation, intense dialogue and close partnership within the EaP, enhanced by transformational impact of EaP policy in order towhich supports reforms that bring about political, social, economic and legal change in the three associated partnerall EaP countries;
Amendment 125 #
2019/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point a a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point a a (new)
(aa) consider that the EaP process must be based on the principle of differentiation and that the scope and depth of cooperation between the EU and the EaP countries must be determined by the ambitions of the parties, as well as by the implementation of reforms, notably regarding respect for democracy, human rights, fundamental freedoms, the rule of law and good governance;
Amendment 131 #
2019/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point a b (new)
Paragraph 1 – point a b (new)
(ab) reiterate that the Eastern Partnership is based on shared fundamental values such as democracy, human rights, rule of law and good governance, common principles as well as joint commitments taken at previous Eastern Partnership summits which should be carried forward;
Amendment 140 #
2019/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point b
Paragraph 1 – point b
(b) acknowledge that those countries that are undertaking comprehensive reforms and taking action to meet the criteria of Article 49 of the TEU may be eligible for EU membership, through a process of gradual integration; consider that for an eventual accession process both the EU and the partner country must be well prepared;
Amendment 150 #
2019/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point b a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point b a (new)
(ba) emphasize the importance of unity in the adherence of all Member States to the EU’s common position on the fundamental values, principles and commitments of the EaP policy;
Amendment 154 #
2019/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point c
Paragraph 1 – point c
(c) embrace an enhanced and future- oriented vision for the next decade of the EaP with the aim of ensuring lasting and irreversible achievements and deepening EU-EaP cooperation; encourage the accession of the EaP countries to the EU, which should be in line with criteria of Article 49 of the TEU, and the accession to the NATO;
Amendment 155 #
2019/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point c
Paragraph 1 – point c
(c) embrace an enhanced and future- oriented vision for the next decade of the EaP with the aim of ensuring lasting and irreversible achievements and deepening EU-EaP cooperation; invite institutions to lead the creation of ever closer relations with the most advanced EaP countries;
Amendment 179 #
2019/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point e
Paragraph 1 – point e
(e) embark on a process to create a common economic space that facilitates deeper political and economic integration with the EU and closer economic and trade relations among the EaP countries;
Amendment 198 #
2019/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point g
Paragraph 1 – point g
(g) provide greater financial assistance, including in the context of the external financial instruments that are currently under legislative negotiation; such assistance should be tailored to the specific needs of the individual partners and used to implement activities under the EaP programme; consider that EU’s financial assistance is also an investment into the future, since it supports reforms that increase the economic and social stability of partner states, and lays down the basis for a successful future cooperation;
Amendment 239 #
2019/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point j
Paragraph 1 – point j
(j) engage further in State building and in strengthening institutions, by making instruments similar to the Support Group for Ukraine available to all EaP countries, with the associated partners first and foremosttaking priority; strong, independent and efficient institutions at a central and local level are key to democratic accountability, rule of law, deoligarchisation, and the fight against corruption and State capture;
Amendment 263 #
2019/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point k
Paragraph 1 – point k
(k) acknowledge and encourage initiatives by the governments of associated countries to boost their mutual cooperation; a similar approach should be applied to cooperation amongst all the Eastern European Partners on various issues; open a visa liberalization dialogue with Armenia;
Amendment 275 #
2019/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point l a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point l a (new)
(la) propose targeted sanctions against individuals involved in grave human rights violations in Azerbaijan, particularly arrests, kidnappings and beatings of civil society and opposition activists and journalists, and violent repression of the peaceful protests following the parliamentary elections on 9th of February 2020, which were not recognized as genuine, free and fair by the OSCE ODIHR;
Amendment 282 #
2019/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point l b (new)
Paragraph 1 – point l b (new)
(lb) express strong concern about the rushed procedure in Armenia to initiate changes in the constitution that might jeopardise the independence of the country’s constitutional court and call on the Armenian authorities to request and consider the opinion of the Venice Commission on this matter;
Amendment 298 #
2019/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point m
Paragraph 1 – point m
(m) acknowledge that the implementation of the DCFTAs has been sufficiently successful that it may gradually lead to theencourage continuous and effective implementation of the DCFTAs in order to gradually create the conditions for opening up of the EU single market in line with the implemented EU standards and requirements;
Amendment 331 #
2019/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point q
Paragraph 1 – point q
(q) extend to other associated partners the approach employed by the EU in its efforts to support the recovery of the Ukrainian economy, including by means of tailored and flexible macro-financial assistance and instruments and engagement and coordination of international financial institutions and donors, and by improving the environment for foreign direct investment (FDI); in the proposed single Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument (FNDI)CI) stress the importance of differentiation within the EaP in assisting associated partners in line with the principal "more for more" and "less for less";
Amendment 382 #
2019/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point t
Paragraph 1 – point t
(t) strengthen intra-EaP academic cooperation by launching an EaP university and targeted EaP programmes focused on good governance and public administration;
Amendment 411 #
2019/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point v
Paragraph 1 – point v
(v) acknowledge the importance of security and stability for the future development of EaP members by boosting cooperation in security and defence and devoting particular attention to regional conflicts under the agreed negotiating formats and processes;
Amendment 416 #
2019/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point v a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point v a (new)
(va) reaffirm support to the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs’ efforts to solve the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict and to their 2009 Basic Principles which reflect a compromise based on the Helsinki Final Act principles of non-use of force, territorial integrity, and the equal rights and self-determination of peoples; call on Armenia and Azerbaijan to continue negotiations in good faith with a view to implementing these principles to solve the conflict, which cannot be solved using military force; call on the Governments of Armenia and Azerbaijan to continue high-level talks and commit to genuine confidence-building measures and dialogue between Armenian and Azerbaijani civil society;
Amendment 432 #
2019/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point w
Paragraph 1 – point w
(w) acknowledge the unique experience and expertise of EaP countries; recognise the contribution of the associated partners to common security and defence policy (CSDP) missions and operations; continue supporting Security Sector Reform (SSR); deepen cooperation in EU- related defence policies, including building resilience to hybrid threats, supporting capabilities development in cyber security and fighting disinformation;
Amendment 469 #
2019/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point x
Paragraph 1 – point x
(x) acknowledge the contribution of EaP civil society actors and organisations to democratisation and reform processes in their countries and the whole EaP region; continue supporting their activities and safeguarding their working environment; moreover continue a wide-ranging dialogue with them;
Amendment 490 #
2019/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point y a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point y a (new)
(ya) establish an EaP European municipalities Twining program to support Twining Partnerships between municipalities in EaP countries and the EU Member States;
Amendment 505 #
2019/2209(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point z
Paragraph 1 – point z
(z) increase the visibility of the support provided by the EU in the recipient EaP countries and boost EU citizens’ awareness about the EaP, moreover to effectively counteract anti-EU propaganda;
Amendment 7 #
2019/2201(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 12 a (new)
Citation 12 a (new)
— having regard to the Council Conclusions of 11 May 2020 on the Eastern Partnership policy beyond 2020,
Amendment 9 #
2019/2201(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 15
Citation 15
— having regard to the 20189 Transparency International corruption perception list that awards Moldova the 11720th place out of 180 countries and territories assessed (first place being the best), while on the 2018 Transparency International corruption perception list Moldova held the 117th place,
Amendment 18 #
2019/2201(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 18
Citation 18
— having regard to the conclusions of the European Parliament election observation mission to the Moldova parliamentary elections of 24 February 2019 integrated in the international election observation mission led by the OSCE/ODIHROSCE/ODIHR recommendations following the Moldova parliamentary elections of 24 February 2019,
Amendment 29 #
2019/2201(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas through the AA/DCFTA the EU and Moldova committed to promote political association and achieve economic integration and Moldova committed to incorporating the EU acquis into its own laws and practices in a large number of areas; whereas, in order to support these efforts, the EU committed to provide substantial financial and budgetary assistance to Moldova;
Amendment 32 #
2019/2201(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A a (new)
Recital A a (new)
Aa. whereas the AA/DCFTA is based on the common values on which the EU is built — namely democracy, respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, and the rule of law — and these values lie also at the heart of political association and economic integration as envisaged in AA/DCFTA Agreement;
Amendment 48 #
2019/2201(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F a (new)
Recital F a (new)
Fa. whereas on 7 May 2020 the Constitutional Court of the Republic of Moldova declared unconstitutional a loan agreement signed with Russia in April 2020;
Amendment 64 #
2019/2201(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes that the AA/DCFTA remains of primary importance, especially in current exceptional times, and commends the progress in its implementation achieved by Moldova to date; recalls, however, that further progress must be achieved, notably in the crucial areas of justice reform and fight against corruption;
Amendment 88 #
2019/2201(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Calls on the European Commission to develop a mechanism to monitor the concrete implementation of reforms, including clear benchmarks and, using the experience of the Support Group for Ukraine, to create a similar structure for Moldova, increasing the effectiveness and visibility of the EU’s support;
Amendment 101 #
2019/2201(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Calls on the Moldovan authorities to ensure free and fair presidential elections scheduled on 1 November 2020;
Amendment 108 #
2019/2201(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Acknowledges the adoption by the Moldovan Parliament of numerous legislative acts in line with the country’s commitments enshrined in the AA, namely related to public administration, public financial management and justice system reforms; underlines the importance of a full implementation of these acts, including by adopting secondary legislation;
Amendment 118 #
2019/2201(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Welcomes the progress achieved on the reform of public administration and public financial management, but encourages further steps to increase transparency; calls on the Moldovan authorities to accelerate the implementation of other AA/DCFTA reforms;
Amendment 127 #
2019/2201(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Is concerned by the high level of concentration and politicisation of the media and advertising sectors, leading to a low level of public confidence in the media; calls to review the audio-visual code and liberalise the advertising market; urges the Moldovan authorities to refrain from exploiting the COVID-19 pandemic to adopt measures curtailing freedom of speech and limiting the media’s ability to report facts in an independent and unbiased way; calls on the European Commission to increase support to the independent media, including in the regions;
Amendment 178 #
2019/2201(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Reiterates the EU’s support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Moldova, and for the efforts in the 5+2 negotiation process to reach a peaceful solution to the Transnistrian issueconflict;
Amendment 197 #
2019/2201(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Urges the Moldovan Government to complete without delay judicial reforms so as to ensure the independence, impartiality and effectiveness of the judiciary and specialised anti-corruption institutions;
Amendment 203 #
2019/2201(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Is concerned by the very highlow level of disapprovaltrust in the integrity and effectiveness of the judiciary, and therefore calls on the Moldovan authorities to ensure that the Prosecutor General, his staff, and public prosecutors in general, work independently and abide by the highest standards of professionalism and integrity;
Amendment 216 #
2019/2201(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Is concerned by the very high level of perceived corruption in Moldova, and therefore urges the Government to step up the fight against it, as well as money laundering, arms smuggling and organised crime; calls on the Moldovan Government to adopt concrete measures to reinforce the independence and, integrity and effectiveness of the National Anticorruption Centre’s Office and the Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office, including for high- level cases;
Amendment 225 #
2019/2201(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Reiterates its concern at the persistent failure to bring transparent prosecution of all those responsible for the bank fraud exposed in 2014, as well as the slow recovery of stolen assets; calls on the Moldovan institutions to speed up the prosecution process and to bring the responsible persons to justice;
Amendment 239 #
2019/2201(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Calls on the authorities to significantly increase efforts to uphold human rights and fundamental freedoms, in particular for minorities and vulnerable groups;
Amendment 272 #
2019/2201(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Welcomes the diversification of the Moldovan economy and significant increase in Moldovan imports into the EU, as well as the fact that the EU is the largest investor in Moldova; welcomes the Moldovan Parliament’s adoption of the European LEADER approach as the basis for its national rural policy;
Amendment 280 #
2019/2201(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Praises the regulatory approximation with the EU acquis, and encourages the Commission to provide technical and financial help for this endeavour ton the Moldovan institutions and public administration; calls on Moldovan institutions to accelerate the approximation process;
Amendment 296 #
2019/2201(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 a (new)
Paragraph 23 a (new)
23a. Stresses the importance of the diversification of Moldova’s electricity system; urges the Moldovan authorities to ensure the timely implementation of the project for interconnection of Moldova- Romania electricity systems by providing necessary support and recourses;
Amendment 318 #
2019/2201(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
25. Encourages the Moldovan authorities to request the establishmentmake use of the possibility of a Jean Monnet Dialogue to support inter- party dialogue and parliamentary capacity building;
Amendment 2 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1
Citation 1
- having regard to its previous resolutions on Turkey, in particular those of 13 March 2019 on the 2018 Commission Report on Turkey1 , of 19 September 2019 on the situation in Turkey, notably the removal of elected mayors2 , of 24 October 2019 on the Turkish military operation in northeast Syria and its consequences3 , and of 17 September 2020 on the preparation of the special European Council summit focusing on the dangerous escalation and the role of Turkey in the Eastern Mediterranean4 and of 26 November 2020 on escalating tensions in Varosha following the illegal actions by Turkey and the urgent need for the resumption of talks4a, _________________ 1 Texts adopted, P8_TA(2019)0200. 2 Texts adopted, P9_TA(2019)0017. 3 Texts adopted, P9_TA(2019)0049. 4 Texts adopted, P9_TA(2020)0230. 4a Texts adopted, P9_TA(2020)0332
Amendment 19 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 6
Citation 6
- having regard to the Council conclusions of 18 June 2019 on the standstill of Turkey's accession process, 15 July and 14 October 2019 on Turkey’s illegal drilling activities in the Eastern Mediterranean, to the European Council conclusions of 12 December 2019 on the illegal Memorandum of Understanding between Turkey and Libya, of 1 October 2020, to the statements of the EU Foreign Ministers of 15 May 2020 and 14 August 2020 on the situation in the Eastern Mediterranean, to the outcome of the informal meeting of EU Foreign Ministers (Gymnich) of 28 August 2020, and to all previous relevant Council and European Council conclusions,
Amendment 42 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas being a candidate country presumes aquires the willingness together with concrete actions to progressively approach, in all aspects, the values, interests, standards and policies of the EU;
Amendment 53 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A a (new)
Recital A a (new)
Aa. Whereas, under the Negotiating Framework, Turkey is expected to unequivocally commit to good neighbourly relations, and the peaceful settlement of disputes having recourse, if necessary, to the International Court of Justice,
Amendment 70 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas, in spite of this principled stance by Parliament and all of the current circumstances, the destabilising actions of Turkey in Libya, Syria and South Caucasus and its illegal actions in Eastern Mediterranean, the European Council, in its conclusions of 1 October 2020, offered Turkey a renewed and broad positive agenda, provided that constructive efforts are sustainedTurkey would stop its illegal activities, in a further attempt to restore our relations;
Amendment 131 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Is deeply concerned that, over the years, the lack of progress in Turkey’s convergence has now transformed into a full withdrawal, marked by a stark regression in three main areas: backsliding on the rule of law and fundamental rights, adopting regressive institutional reforms and pursuing a confrontational and destabilised foreign policy; is further concerned by the fact that this regression has increasingly been accompanied by an explicit anti-EU narrative by government officials; calls, in this context, on Turkey to reassess the sincerity of its commitment to the EU path, as an indispensable component of the viability of the entire accession process;
Amendment 142 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Acknowledges the persistent strategy of openness and good will adopted by the EU and lately materialized in the renewed positive agenda offered by the European Council in October 2020; Stresses that no incentive that the EU could offer can ever replace the much- needed political will to build a mature democracy and, in turn, become a reliable ally and ultimately a member of the EU; Notes that ever since the last European Council conclusions, no efforts were attempted by Turkish authorities to advance towards benchmarks laid down in this broad agenda and that Turkey's confrontational attitude and rhetoric has even deteriorated;
Amendment 143 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Stresses that no incentive that the EU could offer can ever replace the much- needed political will to build a mature democracy and, in turn, become a member of the EU; Recalls that accession process is and will remain a merit-based process fully dependent on the objective progress achieved by each country, including Turkey;
Amendment 169 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Recalls that the allocation of EU funds is conditional on the respect for the rule of law, democratic values, human rights, European and international law; due to the backsliding in all these areas in Turkey, reiterates its position that all the funds allocated under the Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance (IPA III) to be directly managed by the EU in order to support Turkey's civil society, human rights defenders and journalists, and to increase opportunities for people-to- people contacts, academic dialogue and media platforms for journalists with the objective of protecting and promoting democratic values and principles, human rights and the rule of law and that no actions organised by the Turkish state should get financed by the EU budget as long as the situation does not significantly improve;
Amendment 182 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Regrets the current lack of understanding between the EU andcommitment from the side of Turkey, but reaffirms its firm conviction that Turkey is a strategic neighbour and allyn important neighbouring country, with which the EU wishes to have the best possible relations based on international law and mutual respect;
Amendment 253 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Regrets that the current overly broad anti-terrorism provisions and the abuse of the anti-terror measures have become the backbone of this state policy; reiterates its firm condemnation of the violence by the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), which has been on the EU list of terrorist organisations since 2002;notes with great concern the continued mass incarceration of people convicted or held in pre-trial detention on terrorism- related charges based on scant evidence; reiterates its firm condemnation of any violence against civilians from all state and non-state actors.
Amendment 257 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
12a. Deeply regrets the discriminatory Covid-19 early release law which disregarded the right to life of those imprisoned on political grounds and failed to address the situation of those held in pre-trial detention; expresses concern about the unsanitary and overcrowded prison facilities.
Amendment 263 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Considers that the erosion of the rule of law and the systemic lack of independence of the judiciary continues to be one of the most pressing and worrying issues; condemns the increased surveillance by the executive and the political pressure affecting the work of judges, prosecutors, lawyers and bar associations; is appalled by the mass arrest and prosecution of lawyers for representing their clients; is concerned about the legislative amendment allowing for the division of bar associations along political lines in a way to diminish their role as human rights watchdogs.
Amendment 290 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Expresses serious concern about the disproportionate and arbitrary measures curtailing freedom of expression, media freedom and access to information; condemns the imprisonment of journalists, media employees as well as social media users; notes with deep concern the increasing restrictions and censorship imposed on social media platforms; urges Turkey to guarantee media freedom as a matter of priority;
Amendment 315 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Notes with great concern the way that the People’s Democratic Party (HDP) has been specifically and continuously targeted by the Turkish authorities; strongly condemns the continued detention of former HDP co-chairs Selahattin Demirtaş; and Figen Yüksekdağ, members of parliament, elected mayors, administrators and members.
Amendment 326 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Calls on Turkey to release all imprisoned human rights defenders, journalists, lawyers, academics and others who have been detained on unsubstantiated charges and to enable them to carry out their work without threat or impediment in all circumstances; strongly condemns the re-arrest and continued detention of Osman Kavala, a prominent civil society figure; and other prominent Journalists like Ahmet Altan and Hanim Büsra Erdal.
Amendment 382 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Urges Turkey to protect the rights of minorities and vulnerable groups, including women, refugees, LGBTI people and ethnic and religious minorities; is appalled by the rise in hate crimes.
Amendment 388 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 a (new)
Paragraph 21 a (new)
21a. Deplores the fact that the Venice Commission recommendations on the status of religious communities in Turkey have yet to be implemented; reiterates its call on Turkey to respect the importance of the Ecumenical Patriarchate for Orthodox Christians all over the world, to recognise its legal personality and the public use of the ecclesiastical title of the Ecumenical Patriarch; stresses the need to eliminate restrictions on the training, appointment and succession of clergy, to allow the reopening of the Halki Seminary and lift all obstacles for its proper functioning;
Amendment 392 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 a (new)
Paragraph 21 a (new)
21a. Reiterate its call on the Council to establish a comprehensive and effective EU-wide human rights sanction regime, which would allow for targeting any individual, state- and non-state actor, responsible for or involved in human rights violations, breaches of fundamental freedoms and the rule of law in Turkey;
Amendment 401 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 a (new)
Paragraph 21 a (new)
21a. Expresses concern about the reported deportation of Uighurs by way of third countries to China, where they are likely to face grave persecution.
Amendment 406 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 b (new)
Paragraph 21 b (new)
21b. Strongly condemns the decision by the Turkish authorities to convert Hagia Sophia a World Heritage Monument into mosque, in violation of the UNCESCO Convention concerning the protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage, to which Turkey is signatory member; Deplores that Moni tis Choras/Chora Church was also converted from museum into a mosque during the last months; Urges the Turkish government to reverse its decisions and protect the multicultural character of the country; believes these actions undermine the trust between the Turkish government and the religious communities in the country;
Amendment 414 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 c (new)
Paragraph 21 c (new)
21c. Regrets the fact that the Treasury has appealed favourable decisions for the restitution of properties according to the Law on Foundations and most of the appeals against rejected claims are pending either before local courts or at ECHR; calls for the publication of the new electoral regulation for non Muslim foundations, following its annulment in 2013, which has created serious problems to proper administration of these foundations as no elections can take place; recalls the need for Turkey to fully implement all recommendations of the Council of Europe Resolution 1625(2008) with particular emphasis on the restitution property rights of the Greek Orthodox population and its foundations on the islands of Imvros and Tenedos, as well as inheritance rights and adopt all necessary positive discrimination measures for assisting the repatriation of all minority families who wish to return to the islands; underlines the need to preserve the bicultural character of the islands;
Amendment 474 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
25. Recalls the laudable role played by Turkey in responding to the migration crisis resultinghosting refugees from the war in Syria; takes the view that the EU should continue to give the necessary support to Syrian refugees and host communities in Turkey; supports an objective assessment of the EU-Turkey Statement and underlines the importance of both parties’ compliance with their respective commitments; however at the same time criticises the resettlement of Syrian refugees to Turkish-occupied regions in the North of Syria, from which the local Syrian population was previously displaced and is now prevented from returning; refugees must not be brought back to Syria against their will, nor must they be used to carry out demographic engineering against the Kurdish and Christian population in the North of Syria.
Amendment 482 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
25. Recalls the laudable role played by Turkey in responding to the migration crisis resulting from the war in Syria; takes the view that the EU should continue to givfinance the necessary direct support to Syrian refugees and host communities in Turkey; supports an objective assessment of the EU-Turkey StatementCalls for the adoption of an EU- Turkey agreement instead of the current Declaration, with parliamentary scrutiny and underlines the importance of both parties’ compliance wrefraining from using ith their respective commitmentso pressure or blackmail the other party;
Amendment 499 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25 a (new)
Paragraph 25 a (new)
25a. Deplores the negative role of Turkey, threatening regional peace and stability in the Eastern Mediterranean, Middle East and South Caucasus and its role in conflicts in Syria, Iraq, Libya and in Nagorno-Karabakh;
Amendment 506 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
26. Stresses that a modernisation of the Customs Union could be beneficial for both parties and would keep Turkey economically and normatively anchored to the EU; reiterates that this would need to be based on strong conditionality related to human rights and, fundamental freedoms, respect of the international law and good neighbourly relations; highlights that it seems unrealistic to envisage any modernisation of the Customs Union given the current circumstancsituation in human rights inside the country and its destabilising foreign policy; deplore the continuous violations of the current framework and the calls to boycott on EU Member States; recalls that the current Customs Union will not achieve its full potential until Turkey fully implements the Additional Protocol in relation to all Member States, which should be a precondition for the opening of the negotiations for the modernisation;
Amendment 520 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
26. Stresses that a modernisation of the Customs Union could be beneficial for both parties and would keep Turkey economically and normatively anchored to the EU; reiterates that this would need to be based on strong conditionality related to human rights and fundamental freedoms; highlights that it seems unrealistic to envisagestresses that given the current circumstances, any modernisation of the Customs Union given the current circumstancescan't be envisaged; recalls that the current Customs Union will not achieve its full potential until Turkey fully implements the Additional Protocol in relation to all Member States;
Amendment 537 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27
Paragraph 27
27. Is deeply concerned by the ongoing dispute in themultiple NAVTEXs issued by Turkey for exploration in Eastern Mediterranean and, in the relatedcontinental shelf off the Greek island of Kastelorizo, increasing the risk of a military escalation; condemns Turkey’s illegal activities in Greek and Cypriot waters, which violate both the sovereign rights of EU Member States and international law; Strongly condemns the repeated violations of the Greek territorial waters and national airspace, including the overflights of inhabited islands in the Aegean sea and over the region of Evros; expresses its full solidarity with Greece and the Republic of Cyprus; urges Turkey to engage in the peaceful settlement of disputes and to refrain from any unilateral and illegal action or threat; reiterates its regret that the casus belli threat declared by the Grand National Assembly of Turkey in 1995 against Greece, in case has not yet been withdrawn and it is repeated in relation to the possible extension of the Greek territorial waters in the Aegean Sea;
Amendment 548 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27 a (new)
Paragraph 27 a (new)
27a. Reiterates that the European Council of 1 and 2 October 2020 recalled to Turkey that the EU will use all the instruments and the options at its disposal, including of imposing a sanctions’ regime on Turkey , in accordance with Article 29 TEU and Article 215 TFEU, in order to defend its interests and those of its Member State; recalls the Council Conclusions of 14 October 2019 calling the Member States to take strong national positions regarding their arms export policy to Turkey on the basis of the provisions of Common position 2008/944/CFSP, including the strict application of criterion 4 on regional stability and calls to consider introducing an initiative in the Council for all EU Member States to halt arms export licensing to Turkey in accordance with this Common Position; reiterates its call on the VP/HR for as long as Turkey continues with its current illegal, unilateral actions in the Eastern Mediterranean that run counter to the sovereignty of any EU Member State and international law, and does not engage in dialogue based on international law, to introduce an initiative in the Council for all EU Member States to halt arms export for all types of military equipment, including weapons, weapons for dual-use goods and know-how, to Turkey in accordance with the Common Position;; Calls on the NATO leadership to communicate in the strongest terms to Turkey that it will not tolerate the country’s aggressive acts against fellow NATO members;
Amendment 552 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27 b (new)
Paragraph 27 b (new)
27b. Reiterates its call on the Turkish government to sign and ratify the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which is part of the European acquis and recalls that even though Turkey is not a signatory, customary law provides for Exclusive Economic Zone for both inhabited and uninhabited islands; Calls on Turkey to proceed to the negotiating table in good faith in order to solve the issue of the delimitation of maritime zones with Greece and the Republic of Cyprus and to accept the referral of the dispute to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague, in the event a settlement cannot be reach through negotiations;
Amendment 568 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28
Paragraph 28
28. Condemns the partial reopening of Varosha beach, which undermines mutual trust and therefore the prospect of the resumption of direct talks on the comprehensive resolution of the Cyprus issue; calls on Turkey to reverse this action and to refrain from provoking nationalist sentiments; reiterates its support for a fair, comprehensive and viable settlement on the basis of a bi-communal, bi-zonal federation with political equality;
Amendment 573 #
2019/2176(INI)
28a. Stresses that, in spite of reiterated calls for de-escalations and peaceful conflict resolution through dialogue, Turkey did not refrained itself from further violating international law and the sovereignty and territorial integrity of EU Member States through unilateral and illegal actions; Calls therefore on the Council to impose restrictive sectoral and targeted measures against Turkey, which should have no adverse impact on the Turkish society;
Amendment 595 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29
Paragraph 29
29. Strongly condemns the Turkish military interventions in Syria, especially in the northeast and Idlib, Afrin, Ras al- Ayn/Sere Kaniye and Tal Abyad which constitute grave violations of international law;
Amendment 599 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29 a (new)
Paragraph 29 a (new)
Amendment 601 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30
Paragraph 30
30. Calls on Turkey to remain committed to the peaceful resolution of the conflict in Libya under the auspices of the UN, and to fully adhere to the arms embargo imposed by the UN Security Council; regrets that in at least two instances Turkey has denied the personnel of EUNAVFOR MED Irini to inspect ships travelling from Turkey to Libya; recalls that all candidate countries should align their foreign policy with the EU’s foreign and security policy and not to actively work against it; Strongly condemns the signature of the two Memorandums of Understanding between Turkey and Libya on the delimitation of maritime zones and on comprehensive security and military cooperation, which are interconnected and are in clear violation of both international law and the UN Security Council resolution imposing an arms embargo on Libya;
Amendment 631 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 31
Paragraph 31
31. Regrets that, rather than calling for an end to the violence and for a resumption of peaceful negotiations supporting the efforts of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) Minsk Group, Turkey instead decided to unconditionally sustain the military actions of oAzerbaïdjani forces and to directly and militarily intervene ofn their sides in the recent conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh;
Amendment 669 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32 a (new)
Paragraph 32 a (new)
32a. calls on Turkey to stop the attempts to influence European policy through a targeted diaspora policy and to mobilise Turkish- and Islamic communities against the secular understanding of freedom of religion and expression;
Amendment 671 #
2019/2176(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32 b (new)
Paragraph 32 b (new)
32b. Recalls that Turkey has to stop in particular the attempt of the Turkish government to spy and put pressure on opposition members and politicians of Turkish origin in Europe and condemns in the strongest possible terms all attempts to use violence and intimidation against intellectuals, activists or politicians in Europe.
Amendment 16 #
2019/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 16 a (new)
Citation 16 a (new)
— having regard to the responsibilities of the EU States under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCC) and the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD),
Amendment 26 #
2019/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union makes no reference to a common EU forest policy, and responsibility for forests lies with the Member States, but whereas the EU has a long history of contributing, through its policies, some of which already have implications on the Member States' forestry policies, to sustainable forest management (SFM) and the Member States’ decisions on forests;
Amendment 34 #
2019/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
Ba. whereas approximately 40% of EU's forests are publicly owned, Member States are obliged to set an example for sustainable forest management in their publicly owned forests for the public good;
Amendment 36 #
2019/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B b (new)
Recital B b (new)
Bb. whereas European forests absorb and store approximately 10% of EU carbon emissions, contributing thus to climate change mitigation efforts;
Amendment 41 #
2019/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas forests and the entire forest-based value chain are fundamental to the further development of the circular bioeconomy as they provide jobs, ensure economic welfare in rural and urban areas, deliver climate change mitigation and adaptation services, offer health-related benefits, and protect the biodiversity and prospects of mountainous and rural areas and combat desertification;
Amendment 46 #
2019/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C a (new)
Recital C a (new)
Ca. whereas riverside forests have a very important role to play being natural protection against increase of water level during floods, but also in terms of preserving humidity in a situation of rising global temperature; whereas they play a key role in preserving biodiversity, but also tend to absorb among others agricultural mineral residues through the groundwater, thus limiting the expose of rivers to polluting factors; whereas in some member states there have been some regional projects of replanting riverside forests at least several meters from the river shore;
Amendment 55 #
2019/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C a (new)
Recital C a (new)
Ca. whereas sustainably managed forests are enormously important in guaranteeing jobs in rural areas, representing a benefit for human health, while at the same time making a vital contribution to the environment and biodiversity;
Amendment 67 #
2019/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C b (new)
Recital C b (new)
Cb. whereas almost 23% of European forests are to be found in Natura 2000 sites, with the share in some Member States exceeding 50%, and almost half of the natural habitats in Natura 2000 areas are forests;
Amendment 70 #
2019/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C c (new)
Recital C c (new)
Cc. whereas High Conservation Value Forests (HCV Forests) have a crucial role to play in preserving vulnerable habitats, but also in enhancing science; whereas some EU member states have adopted targeted policies towards HCVF, which is commendable; whereas the added value from these forests cannot be compared or measured in economic terms, which makes it difficult at times to be understood by forest owners, which is why some sort of compensatory mechanism could be further designed, if and where applicable;
Amendment 73 #
2019/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C c (new)
Recital C c (new)
Cc. whereas according to the latest estimations, only 26% of forest species and 15% of the forest habitats were found to be in favourable conservation status1a; _________________ 1a https://www.eea.europa.eu/themes/biodive rsity/forests/forest-dynamics-in-europe- and
Amendment 75 #
2019/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C d (new)
Recital C d (new)
Cd. whereas forests can be sources of both primary forest products such as wood, they provide for valuable secondary products such as mushrooms, truffles, herbs, honey and berries, which are very important for the economic activities in some regions of the Union;
Amendment 77 #
2019/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C d (new)
Recital C d (new)
Cd. whereas it is clear that old growth forests, mixed stand forests and agroforestry offer climate, biodiversity and resilience benefits that exceed those of plantation forestry;
Amendment 87 #
2019/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C f (new)
Recital C f (new)
Cf. whereas forests play a crucial role in the fight against soil erosion, but also desertification of land masses; whereas studies show that trees in parks and city- environment have positive effect on keeping lower temperatures as compared to treeless areas;
Amendment 113 #
2019/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Takes note of the fact that forests fulfil several, often-conflicting objectives (including regulating water quality, biodiversity protection and providing raw materials for paper, construction and energy), which is why, as a result, many of these forests fall consequently under distinct domains where the EU is competent, such as energy, agriculture, environment, climate and water, and many European Commission Directorates General are engaged in forest related issues1a although forests per se remain outside the realm of EU competences; calls, therefore, on the Commission and the Directorates Generals with forest- related competences to work strategically to ensure coherence in any forestry- related work and enhance the sustainable management of forests; as well as to review its organisational structures relevant to forest, agroforestry and the forest-based sector to ensure effective implementation of the strategy; _________________ 1ahttps://www.mdpi.com/1999- 4907/9/3/125/htm#
Amendment 139 #
2019/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Emphasises that the EU’s forests are multifunctional and characterised by great diversity, including differences in ownership patterns, size, structure, biodiversity, resilience and challenges; points out, in addition, that forests offer society a wide variety of ecosystem services including raw materials, improved air quality, absorbing and storing around 10% of EU carbon emissions thereby significantly contributing to climate change mitigation efforts, clean water, erosion control, and protection from droughts, floods and avalanches;
Amendment 157 #
2019/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Notes that forests and other wooded areas cover at least 43 % of the surface of the EU and that the sector employs at least 500 000 people directly3 and 2.6 million indirectly in the EU4 ; stresses that this workforce is dependent on a well- preserved and sustainably managed forest ecosystem in the long term; _________________ 3 Eurostat database on forestry, available at: https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/web/forestry/d ata/database 4European Parliament fact sheet of May 2019 on the European Union and forests.
Amendment 190 #
2019/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Acknowledges the crucial climate benefits of forests and the forest-based sector; highlights the need to increase CO2 sequestration in forests and agroforests, and their soils, carbon storage in wood- based products and the substitution of fossil-based materials and energy;
Amendment 201 #
2019/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 a (new)
Paragraph 9 a (new)
9a. Reminds that there are several tree species in the List of invasive alien species of Union concern; notes that other invasive alien plants can also be met in forests; calls on all state, regional or local authorities as well as to any other stakeholder from the public, private or non-governmental sector, to include only local varieties of trees suitable for the given regions, while implementing various forest (re)planting projects and activities; calls also to the national responsible authorities to exchange information and best practicing with their partners from other member states on how to overcome the spread of invasive alien species in the forests and if possible how to reduce their presence with the aim of replacing them fully with local varieties;
Amendment 210 #
2019/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 b (new)
Paragraph 9 b (new)
9b. Calls on the Member States to give the necessary provisions for breeders of autochthonous breeds of animals, which are dependent on access to forests, to get such smoothly so that jobs can be preserved in rural areas, which also preserves traditional knowledge and biodiversity, while at the same time providing quality products to the EU consumer;
Amendment 212 #
2019/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 c (new)
Paragraph 9 c (new)
9c. Encourages the Member States to intensify their respective forestry stakeholders to reach to a broader segment of the population through educational tools and programmes both for pupils, but also for people of the other age groups, stressing the importance of forests both for human-led activities, but also for preserving biodiversity and various ecosystems;
Amendment 237 #
2019/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Emphasises the crucial role of forests, agroforests, the forest-based sector and the bioeconomy in achieving the goals of the European Green Deal; stresses that achieving the EU’s environmental and climate goals will never be possible without multifunctional, healthy and sustainably managed forests and viable industries; encourages, in addition, actions tocalls on the Commission, in addition, to consider creating a special budget, outside the Common Agricultural Policy budget, to incentivise Member States to comply with EU-wide targets for increaseing forest cover, especially in areas not suitable for food production and those in proximity to urban areas, in order to mitigate adverse heat effects and pollution, while curbing deforestation;
Amendment 264 #
2019/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
Amendment 281 #
2019/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Takes the view that the EU Forest Strategy should act as a bridge between national forest and agroforest policies and EU objectives relating to forests and agroforests, recognising both the need to respect national competence and the need to contribute to wider EU objectives, while coherently addressing the specificities of both private forests and publicly owned ones;
Amendment 288 #
2019/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 a (new)
Paragraph 14 a (new)
14a. Calls on the Member States to improve national legislation to put in place, or strengthen where necessary, protection against illegal logging and loss of biodiversity;
Amendment 289 #
2019/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 b (new)
Paragraph 14 b (new)
14b. Calls on the European Commission to encourage the commercialization of felled wood and trimmed wood/roundwood, instead of living trees from publicly-owned forests, as a method to prevent illegal logging and overexploitation, which would give state authorities more control over the volume of cut and commercialized wood, thereby discouraging illegal practices by privately contracted firms;
Amendment 302 #
2019/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 a (new)
Paragraph 15 a (new)
15a. Calls on the European Commission to invest supplementary funds - additional to the budget already allocated to the CAP scheme - in an EU- wide action on reforestation, afforestation and to implement specific subsidies for forestry management and environmental protection, to contribute to the Green Deal 2050 climate change mitigation efforts;
Amendment 308 #
2019/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Highlights the need to take into consideration the links between the forest- based sector and other sectors as well as the importance of digitalisation and investing in research and innovation, which can positively contribute to further solutions for climate change mitigation and job creation; stresses the crucial role of wood-based materials in substituting fossil-based alternatives in industries such as the construction industry, the textile industry, the chemical industry and the packaging industry;
Amendment 322 #
2019/2157(INI)
16b. Considers that the EU should encourage the use of locally-sourced timber, harvested wood products or forest biomass in order to minimise the carbon footprint created by transport of imports from third countries and to stimulate sustainable local production and jobs;
Amendment 332 #
2019/2157(INI)
17. Stresses that due to climate change, natural disturbances such as droughts, floods, storms, pest infestations, erosion and fires will occur more frequently, causing damage to forests in the EU; emphasises, in this context, the need to better prevent such events by making forests more resilient, for example by encouraging forest grazing and the conversion of at-risk forests to agroforests, through more research and innovation and by offering better support mechanisms for affected areas and properties sto they can beprotect and restored them;
Amendment 342 #
2019/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 a (new)
Paragraph 17 a (new)
17a. Calls on the state or regional actors, which responsible for forests, to support either with adequate resources or expertise and knowledge the repopulation of riverside forests, where relevant, with local and/or specialised stakeholders, with the aim of creating biodiverse habitats, after the creation of which ecological services, such as absorption of harmful substances, which circulate through groundwaters, will be achieved;
Amendment 345 #
2019/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 a (new)
Paragraph 17 a (new)
17a. Given the worrying increased risk of forest fires in Europe, calls on the European Commission to include support for silvopasture (forest grazing) within the agroforestry measure and to encourage Member States to implement it in the next Rural Development programme;
Amendment 348 #
2019/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 b (new)
Paragraph 17 b (new)
17b. Calls on the members states where secondary forest products play an important socio-economic role to develop and enhance guidelines, or where necessary also national legislation with regard to practicing these activities;
Amendment 349 #
2019/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 c (new)
Paragraph 17 c (new)
17c. Calls on the member states to design initiatives for preserving and where necessary establishing HCV Forests with necessary mechanisms and instruments for incentivising and compensating, where applicable, forest owners, so that knowledge and science can advance vis-à-vis these forests, alongside preserving natural habitats;
Amendment 355 #
2019/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Recognises the role of biodiversity in ensuring that forest ecosystems remain healthy and resilient; highlights the importance of the Natura 2000 sites; notes, however, that sufficientencourages further research into the relationship between biodiversity and resilience; notes, however, that technical advice and fresh financial resources are needed to manage such areas;
Amendment 376 #
2019/2157(INI)
21. Stresses the crucial importance of the CAP and forestry measures in implementing the EU Forest Strategy; encourages the continuity of forestry measures under the 2021-2027 CAP with the possibility of adding forestry activities to more measures than currently; highlights the need for other easily accessible, well-coordinated and relevant EU funding mechanisms; is worried at the same time that horizontal RDP measures such as “Young farmer” do not include forestry activities at least in some member states, which is illogical since investments in forestry often need intensive investment with return on investment coming back only in a few years’ time;
Amendment 388 #
2019/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Stresses the crucial importance of the CAP, forestry and agroforestry measures in implementing the EU Forest Strategy; encourages the continuity of forestry and agroforestry measures under the 2021-2027 CAP; highlights the need for other easily accessible, well- coordinated and relevant EU funding mechanisms;
Amendment 394 #
2019/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 a (new)
Paragraph 21 a (new)
21a. Takes note of the challenge for both farmers and administrators in identifying and monitoring the preservation of landscape features, in particular those aiming to protect scarce woody vegetation; calls on the European Commission to reduce and simplify the administrative requirements, in order to boost woody vegetation promotion and preservation linked to landscape features policies associated with Pillar I and Pillar II payments;
Amendment 398 #
2019/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 a (new)
Paragraph 21 a (new)
21a. Calls on the member states to align the various strategies and plans for forestry management so that the respective targets can be followed and corrected accordingly in due course, instead of creating administrative mosaics, which then threatens achieving the goals set in these strategic documents;
Amendment 402 #
2019/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 b (new)
Paragraph 21 b (new)
21b. Takes note of the low uptake of the numerous measures within the 2014-2020 Rural Development Regulations designed to support the deliberate integration of woody vegetation with farming; therefore calls on the European Commission to bundle various agroforestry promotion initiatives in the post 2020 Common Agricultural Policy Reform into a unique “agroforestry” measure, which will promote the use of woody component in agrarian and forestry systems;
Amendment 404 #
2019/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 b (new)
Paragraph 21 b (new)
21b. Calls on the European commission together with its respective agencies and centers, where necessary to invest in and where necessary intensify the research on finding a solution to the spread of the Cryphonectria parasitica on chestnut trees and forests;
Amendment 412 #
2019/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 e (new)
Paragraph 21 e (new)
21e. Acknowledges the lack of knowledge about agroforestry among many farmers; calls, therefore, on the European Commission to promote EU- wide specialised training programmes, in order to make farmers and female farmers aware of the benefits and the practice of integrating woody vegetation with agriculture at local, regional and global scales;
Amendment 416 #
2019/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 h (new)
Paragraph 21 h (new)
21h. Calls on the European Commission to consider the implementation of EU-wide binding graduated forestry techniques from non- intervention in strictly protected areas, to limited interventions such as ecological and hygienic clearing in buffer zones; regrets the unsustainable practices and illegal logging taking place in such areas in some Member States; further calls on the Member States to consider stringent penalties for flagrant violations and a more efficient and rapid implementation of such penalties;
Amendment 446 #
2019/2157(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Stresses the need to develop an EU- wide Forest Information and Monitoring System for Europe under the shared responsibility of all of the relevant Commission Directorates-General, that is able to provide real-time information on forest resources, monitor whether natural reserves and protected trees are well preserved and forecast and measure the impact of natural disasters and disturbances on forest condition and health; stresses the importance of science- based, balanced information with socio- economic indicators for the development of any forest-related EU policy;
Amendment 459 #
2019/2157(INI)
24a. Welcomes the trend toward digitalization in the sector and calls on the European Commission to consider the implementation of an EU-wide digital wood-traceability mechanism for data gathering, consistent transparency, ensuring a level playing field, reducing uncompetitive behaviour and deliberate wrongful action in the wood trade, within and outside the EU, through a verification system; further takes the view that such a verification system would improve compliance, limiting and combating financial fraud, while hampering cartel practices and dismantling illegal logging logistical operations and movement; would further encourage exchanges of good practices with Member States which have already implemented such reforms at national level;
Amendment 6 #
2019/2156(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Emphasises the important role played by farmers in food production and how this is dependent on natural resources such as soil, water and forests; recognises the multifunctionality of forests, and stresses the need for a holistic and coherent approach for the protection, restoration and management of forests;
Amendment 7 #
2019/2156(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Emphasises the important role played by farmers in agricultural and food production and how this is dependent on natural resources such as soil, water and forests; recognises the multifunctionality of forests and their interdependence from other ecosystems and their elements;
Amendment 26 #
2019/2156(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Notes that the rolsocial and economic importance of agriculture is expanding as the growing world population requires increased food production of food and agricultural commodities; considers, therefore, that all further actions must address issues such as preventing unsustainable land use and management practices, coping with natural disturbances and mitigating climate change;
Amendment 39 #
2019/2156(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Stresses the need to promote the consumptionuse of sustainably sourced goods by introducing and promoting the use of a labelling and certification system for deforestation-free products imported into the EU and incorporating the deforestation- free aspect into EU trade deals and other multilateral agreements; notes that some labelling schemes (such as FSC) exist in some countries; is of the opinion that however a ubiquitous system would help both increase awareness and have a quantitative view of the trends globally;
Amendment 61 #
2019/2156(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Underlines the need for further significant progress in developing and implementing an EU protein plant strategy and ensuring robust protein plant production within the EU, in order to reduce the dependence on imports, and reduce the pressure on forests due to land use change;
Amendment 75 #
2019/2156(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Takes the view that the drivers of deforestation should be addressed in a EU policy framework, thereby ensuring the coherence of forest-related policies, reducing the pressure on forests by developing more innovative and efficient farming within and outside the EU, and reducing food losses throughout the food chain and the production of agricultural commodities through new technologies; considers that the high demand for food should be addressed through technical assistance, cooperation among agricultural organisations and knowledge transfer;
Amendment 94 #
2019/2156(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Emphasises the importance of sustainable forest management within the EU and in third countries as an essential factor in ensuring the income of forest owners and farmers practicing agroforestry and in improving the resilience of forests, as well as enhancing carbon sequestration within forests.
Amendment 2 #
2019/2136(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 3
Citation 3
– having regard to the Charter of the United Nations and the Helsinki Final Act of 1975 of the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe,
Amendment 8 #
2019/2136(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 7 a (new)
Citation 7 a (new)
– having regard to its recommendation of 15 November 2017 to the Council, the Commission and the EEAS on the Eastern Partnership, in the run-up to the November 2017 Summit,
Amendment 239 #
2019/2136(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Encourages the EU to further prioritise conflict prevention and mediation; underlines that this approach delivers a high degree of EU added value in political, social, economic and security terms; recalls that conflict prevention and mediation activities help to assert the presence and credibility of the EU on the international scene; highlights Parliament’s valuable contribution in the field of mediation and dialogue, especially in the Western Balkan and Eastern Partnership countries, and calls for the further development of interinstitutional cooperation on mediation; welcomes the EU's increased role in conflict resolution and confidence building in the framework or in support of existing agreed negotiating formats and principles, and calls for the further development of interinstitutional cooperation on mediation, based on the norms and principles of international law, UN Charter and OSCE 1975 Helsinki Final Act;
Amendment 25 #
2019/2135(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Notes the lasting deterioration in the Union’s strategic environment in the face of multiple challenges directly or indirectly affecting the security of its Member States and citizens: armed conflicts immediately to the east and south of the European continent, jihadist terrorism, cyber attacks, uncontrolled migrationdisinformation campaigns, increasing threats to natural resources, climate change, etc.;
Amendment 55 #
2019/2135(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Deplores the fact that, in this context, some of these actors are deliberately circumventing or attempting to destroy the multilateral mechanisms essential to maintaining peace; and they might become a direct threat to our security;
Amendment 60 #
2019/2135(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4 a. Continues to condemn Russia’s military intervention and illegal annexation of Crimean peninsula; ensures support for Ukraine's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity;
Amendment 62 #
2019/2135(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 b (new)
Paragraph 4 b (new)
4 b. Notes that targeted restrictive measures can be effective tools, but stresses that they should not affect innocent people and should be in line with the principles of UN Charter and of the CFSP;
Amendment 63 #
2019/2135(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 c (new)
Paragraph 4 c (new)
4 c. Reiterates its support for Commission President Juncker’s call in his State of the Union Address on 12 September 2018 to move from unanimity to QMV in specific areas of the CFSP, including decisions on sanctions;
Amendment 69 #
2019/2135(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Notes that the Union has been slow to react and adapt – politically, diplomatically and militarily – to new crises and to this new international context; considers that, in the specific area of defence, insufficient investment, differences in capabilities and a lack of interoperability, but also, and above all, a political reluctance to implement the robust provisions provided for in the European treaties and the numerous cooperation arrangements between Member States have weakened the Union’s ability to play a decisive role in external crises; therefore urges the European Council to move from unanimity to qualified majority voting in the field of CFSP and CSDP where the Treaty on European Union allows it; including on decisions on EU civilian missions; recognises, further, that no country is able by itself to address the security challenges on the European continent and in its immediate environment;
Amendment 85 #
2019/2135(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Is convinced that the response to the Union’s security challenges lies primarily in strengthening its strategic autonomy; therefore, supports moving ahead on security and defence integration, including, in the long term, the creation of a common European Army;
Amendment 96 #
2019/2135(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7 a. Welcomes the achievements of the last five years regarding the strengthening of the Common Security and Defence Policy and calls on the Council and the Commission to develop further the Union’s capacities to act as a global partner, representing the interests of European citizens and acting as a positive force in international relations;
Amendment 129 #
2019/2135(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Considers, therefore, that European strategic autonomy is based, above all, on the ability of the Union to assess a crisis situation and take a decision autonomously, which necessarily entails an independent and efficient decision-making process, the availability of means of assessment and a freedom to analyse and take action; considers, also, that European strategic autonomy is based on the ability of the Union to act alone when its interests are at stake (theatres of operations not considered as priorities by its European partners) or within the framework of existing cooperation arrangements; considers, lastly, that European strategic autonomy is part of a multilateral framework which respects commitments within the UN and complements the (NATO) alliances and partnerships to which most Member States are signed up; stresses that strategic autonomy does not mean that the Union will systematically act alone, everywhere and always;
Amendment 138 #
2019/2135(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Considers that the affirmation of European strategic autonomy depends on the establishment of European defence coopeintegration in the technological, capability, industrial and operational fields; considers that only practical and flexible cooperation based on pragmatic initiatives will make it possible to gradually overcome the difficulties, forge a genuine common strategic culture and shape common responses tailored to the continent’s main security and defence issues;
Amendment 228 #
2019/2135(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 a (new)
Paragraph 23 a (new)
23 a. Welcomes the recognition that there is no security without women and stresses the importance of the participation of women in negotiations and missions;
Amendment 231 #
2019/2135(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
25. Stresses the need to assess missions and operations on a regular basis in order to make them more effective; calls on the EEAS and the Commission to draw up mandates and budgets which are appropriate to the operations concerned and to provide for an exit strategy; calls, in that connection, for more regular information sharing and consultations with the relevant parliamentary committees prior, during and after the missions and operations, and calls on the latter to focus their missions and delegations on areas where CSDP missions and operations are deployed; demands that the European Parliament - alongside national parliaments has a strengthened role in CSDP respect, so as to guarantee the parliamentary oversight of the EU Common Security and Defence Policy and its budget;
Amendment 282 #
2019/2135(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34 a (new)
Paragraph 34 a (new)
34 a. Recalls that the solidarity clause (Article 222 TFEU) also provides the Union and the Member States with the possibility of providing assistance to a Member State that is the object of a terrorist attack or the victim of a natural or man-made disaster; recalls that the 2013 Cybersecurity Strategy of the European Union states that “a particularly serious cyber incident or attack could constitute sufficient ground for a Member State to invoke the EU Solidarity Clause (article 222 TFEU); reminds that the Council Decision 2014/415/EU ‘on the arrangements for the implementation by the Union of the solidarity clause’, establishes that the solidarity clause calls for the Union to mobilise all the instruments at its disposal, including the structures developed in the framework of the CSDP; calls on Member States to consider the activation of the solidarity clause in the future;
Amendment 307 #
2019/2135(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 38
Paragraph 38
Amendment 370 #
2019/2135(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 46
Paragraph 46
46. Stresses the still virtual nature of the European Defence Fund; points out that that this instrument has not yet been finally approved, with only partial and political agreement having been given in April 2019; stresses the importance of maintaining Parliament’s position concerning the amount of the EDF, the involvement of third countries and the establishment of an appropriate intellectual property policy in relation to security and defence in order to protect research results; draws attention, in that connection, to the highly sensitive and strategic nature of defence research, both for industrial competitiveness and for the strategic autonomy of the Union; calls for the initial lessons learned from the implementation of the EDIDP (in particular concerning the application of derogations for eligible entities), the pilot project and the preparatory action on defence research to be properly taken into account; calls on the Member States to be fully involved in the decision-making process in order to avoid bureaucratic excesses and to ensure that the programmes included address the strategic needs of the CSDP and the Member States; considers that the success of the EDF will depend on its ability to cater for the specific defence needs of the participating states and to guarantee the availability of sufficient budgetary resources, whilst ensuring that industrial know-how is not duplicated, national defence investment is not crowded out and cooperation does not become over- complicated; considers that developing the European defence industry by regulating access for entities controlled by non-EU third parties to projects financed by the Fund is fully consistent with the European ambition of strategic autonomy;
Amendment 404 #
2019/2135(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 50
Paragraph 50
50. Believes that the Union and its Member States face an unprecedented threat in the form of cyber attacks as well as cyber crime, disinformation campaigns and terrorism; believes that the nature of cyber attacks makes them a threat that requires a Union-level response; encourages the Member States to provide mutual assistance in the event of a cyber attack against any one of them;
Amendment 455 #
2019/2135(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 59
Paragraph 59
59. Stresses the importance of cooperation between the Union and other international institutions, in particular the African Union and the OSCE; considers that the Union should also strengthen dialogue and cooperation with third countries in the region and with regional and sub-regional organisations; also believes that a stable and peaceful environment in the Union’s neighbourhood countries are essential in order to stabilize the region, protect the residents, keep the peace and prevent conflicts. Notes with regret that the European Council failed to move forward concerning the enlargement of the Union towards the Western Balkans, in particular with respect to the opening of membership negotiations with North Macedonia and Albania. Urges the Member States, the Council and the European Commission to maintain a strong relationship with the countries of the Western Balkans, acting on earlier commitments of the EU as regards their European perspective, supporting their reforms aiming at the fulfilment of the Copenhagen Criteria for EU Membership; ensuring that each country is judged according to their real progress towards these requirements; maintaining a credible framework for enlargement; and further deepening the region’s integration in order to ensure the stable and peaceful development of the Western Balkans as a strategic partner of the European Union;
Amendment 465 #
2019/2135(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 60 a (new)
Paragraph 60 a (new)
60a. In order to tackle the threat of nuclear proliferation stresses the importance of multilateral negotiations among the European Union and the involved parties; urges to respect the nuclear treaties, to support closing new treaty which replace the INF (Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces)Treaty and to renewing the Non- Proliferation Treaty (NPT) in 2020;
Amendment 473 #
2019/2135(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 61
Paragraph 61
61. Considers that progress in European defence will pave the way for major structural changes; notes the announcement of the creation of a Directorate-General for Defence and Space at the Commission under the responsibility of the Commissioner- designate for the Internal Market; notes that this new DG should be responsible for supporting, coordinating or complementing the Member States’ actions in the area of European defence and would thus contribute to strengthening European strategic autonomy; notes the definition of its five main tasks (implementation and oversight of the EDF, creation of an open and competitive European defence equipment market, implementation of the action plan on military mobility, enhancement of a strong and innovative space industry, implementation of the future space programme), but calls on the Commission to provide further details on the role and responsibilities of the new DG; Wonders how it will coordinate its work with that of other defence policy structures which have other responsibilities (EDA, EEAS, etc.)including the establishment of a common defence in a near future, as foreseen by article 42.2 TEU; is of the opinion that the Conference on the future of Europe will have to reflect on European defence, adequately responding to developments in the EU’s strategic environment, including by considering amendments to the Treaties;
Amendment 482 #
2019/2135(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 61 a (new)
Paragraph 61 a (new)
61a. Notes the announcement of the creation of a Directorate-General for Defence and Space at the Commission under the responsibility of the Commissioner-designate for the Internal Market; notes that this new DG should be responsible for supporting, coordinating or complementing the Member States’ actions in the area of European defence and would thus contribute to strengthening European strategic autonomy; notes the definition of its five main tasks (implementation and oversight of the EDF, creation of an open and competitive European defence equipment market, implementation of the action plan on military mobility, enhancement of a strong and innovative space industry, implementation of the future space programme), but calls on the Commission to provide further details on the role and responsibilities of the new DG; wonders how it will coordinate its work with that of other defence policy structures which have other responsibilities (EDA, EEAS, etc.);
Amendment 6 #
2019/2064(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2 a. Calls on the EEAS to implement gender budgeting in all public expenditure;
Amendment 7 #
2019/2064(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 b (new)
Paragraph 2 b (new)
2 b. Recalls that gender mainstreaming is the (re)organisation, improvement, development and evaluation of policy processes, so that a gender equality perspective is incorporated in all policies at all levels and at all stages, by the actors involved in policy-making;
Amendment 11 #
2019/2064(DEC)
3. Notes the remaining gender and geographical imbalances within the EEAS staff, despite positive trends in recent years; reiterates the importance of ensuring a balanced distribution of staff in terms of gender and geographical origin within different categories and grades, particularly at middle and senior management levels; highlights the fact that only the improvement of the geopolitical and gender balance in the EEAS can assure our European ownership of foreign action; points also to the overrepresentation of Member States’ diplomats among Heads of Delegation; calls for further efforts to address these imbalances;
Amendment 13 #
2019/2064(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4 a. Highlights the importance of the flagship project of the European External Action Service’s East StratCom Task Force - EU vs. Disinfo in the fight against disinformation, propaganda and foreign influence on our geopolitical scene.
Amendment 3 #
2019/2055(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the findings of the Court of Auditors concerning the financial year 2018; takes note of its remarks regarding the regularity of transactions unde, in which 77 % of the transaction examined were error free with an overall error rate for ‘Natural Resources’ of 2,4 %; highlights that transactiondirect payments under the EAGF were free from material errors and that most of the other errors were generated by complex eligibility rules; notes, furthermore, that the risk implied by errors is adequately covered under the corrective capacity of the Commission;
Amendment 9 #
2019/2055(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Notes that most rural development actions which were audited produced the expected results; asks the Commission and Member States to improve their performance framework where needed and to introduce further simplification measures, such as simplified cost options; regrets that the Court of Auditors identified weaknesses in the use of result indicators; however notes as well that the Commission has taken steps that should address those weaknesses in its proposal for the future CAP;
Amendment 14 #
2019/2055(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Is satisfied with the overall execution rate of the budget (96,92 % for commitment appropriations and 97,21 % for payments appropriations); welcomes the fact that DG AGRI’s findings on error rate is consistent with the conclusion of the Court of Auditors, however asks the Commission and Member States to improve its execution rate for rural development (93,97 % in 2018) and to do its utmost to facilitate the absorption of the EAFRD;
Amendment 28 #
2019/2055(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Is concerned by alleged cases of high-level conflicts of interest and land- grabbing by oligarchs with possible facilitation by governments and public authorities; calls on the Commission to increase efforts to prevent and detect fraud; urges the Commission to be extra vigilant on rule of law matters;
Amendment 32 #
2019/2055(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5 a. Urges the Commission to be extra vigilant on rule of law matters; suggests that CAP payments must benefit those working the land; stresses that Union agriculture is best served when funding encourages ownership for those active in agricultural production;
Amendment 33 #
2019/2055(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 b (new)
Paragraph 5 b (new)
5 b. Calls on the Court of Auditors to draft a special report on land-grabbing and its potential impact on the CAP;
Amendment 49 #
2019/2055(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Stresses that support to young farmers from the CAP is essential; encourages the Commission to move towards a greener CAP in line with the Paris Agreementunderlines that digitalisation of agriculture can be an adequate tool for the revitalisation of rural services making rural areas more attractive to young farmers.
Amendment 54 #
2019/2055(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7 a. Encourages the Commission to move towards a greener CAP in line with the Paris Agreement.
Amendment 55 #
2019/2055(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 b (new)
Paragraph 7 b (new)
7 b. Points out the importance of social fairness and stresses that fair distribution of funds within and among Member States is essential.