706 Amendments of László TŐKÉS
Amendment 55 #
2018/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas new areas of tension between the EU and Russia have arisen since 2015, including: Russian intervention in Syria; large-scale military exercises (Zapad 2017); russian interference aimed at influencing elections and stoking tensions in European societies; restrictions on fundamental freedoms and extensive human rights violations in Russia, including the systemic targeting of human rights defenders and civil society in Russia, discrimination against the Tatar minority in occupied Crimea, and the politically motivated persecution of Alexei Navalny and many others; cyber attacks and assassinations on European soil carried out by Russian intelligence agents using chemical weapons; the intimidation, arrest and imprisonment of foreign citizens in Russia in breach of international law, including Oleg Sentsov and many others; the organisation of illegal and illegitimate elections in the Donbas; flawed presidential elections lacking any real choice and with restrictions on fundamental freedoms; violations of arms control agreements;
Amendment 133 #
2018/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Believes therefore that the EU- Russia relationship requires a new framework of cooperation only in those areas that are necessary and in a common interest, and with a view to guaranteeing security in the EU’s neighbourhood and a European peace order; is of the view that the PCA should be discontinued;
Amendment 162 #
2018/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Amendment 198 #
2018/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
Amendment 207 #
2018/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Reiterates that while the EU's stance is firm, coherent and concerted with respect to EU sanctions on Russia, further coordination and coherence is required in its foreign and security policy approach to Russia; calls, in this context, on Member States to end 'golden visa/passport' programmes;
Amendment 251 #
2018/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Reiterates its support for the five principles guiding the EU's policy towards Russia, and calls for further definition of the selective engagement principle; recommends that the focus be placed inter alia on issues relating to the MENA region, terrorism, non-proliferation, arms control and climate change; calls for a high-level dialogue between EU, EEU and AA/DCFTA countries; reiterates that while consultations between the EU and Russia on cyber terrorism and organised crime need to continue, Russia’s systematic hybrid threats require strong deterrence; calls, in this context, for the initiation of a high-level EU-EEU-China-Central Asia dialogue on Belt and Road Initiative and connectivity;
Amendment 269 #
2018/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Underlines that Russia and the EU will remain key economic partners in the foreseeable future, but Nord Stream 2 reinforces EU dependency on Russian gas supplies, threatens the EU internal market and is not in line with EU energy policy, and therefore needs to be stopped;
Amendment 317 #
2018/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
Amendment 338 #
2018/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
Amendment 365 #
2018/2158(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Supports increased funding for the the work of European Endowment for Democracy and other instruments to advance democracy and human rights;
Amendment 7 #
2018/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 10 a (new)
Citation 10 a (new)
- having regard to the International Covenant on Civiland Political Rights,
Amendment 8 #
2018/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 10 b (new)
Citation 10 b (new)
- having regard to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights,
Amendment 40 #
2018/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. whereas it is important to identify attacks on academic freedom as part of global phenomena, and to encourage the recognition of academics and students being targeted not only as individuals whose rights are being violated, but also as human rights defenders who are being attacked;
Amendment 45 #
2018/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J
Recital J
J. whereas many at-risk academics and students are not able to obtain access to the opportunities provided by EU programmes for academic mobility as a result of not meeting the application criteria or of having great difficulty in following the general application procedures, requirements and schedules;
Amendment 48 #
2018/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K
Recital K
K. whereas funding limitations in EU programmes restrict the actions of universities in the EU that already support students and scholars who flee their countries as a result of the threat of persecution for their academic engagement;
Amendment 55 #
2018/2117(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point a
Paragraph 1 – point a
(a) explicitly recognise the importance of the defence of academic freedom in the EU’s external action in public statements, policies and actions, including recognition of the principles that ideas are not crimes and that critical discourse is not disloyalty;
Amendment 9 #
2018/2107(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the acknowledgement of the need to enhance transparency and accountability by the participation of civil society in monitoring the effective implementation of human rights commitments set out in international conventions; calls on the Commission to consider establishing joint oversight commissions or domestic advisory groups with the participation of local civil society and trade union representativesstresses the need to strengthen local civil society organisations, because problems can be addressed most effectively on the spot, and calls on the Commission to support the creation of domestic advisory groups with the participation of local civil society and trade union representatives; considers it important that local civil society organisations which play a role in defending the interests of marginalised communities, including people with disabilities, should be supported;
Amendment 30 #
2018/2107(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Calls on the Commission to addressStresses that the local involvement of civil society organisations is essential in order to assert interests effectively, and calls on the Commission to examine objectively, and in a comparable manner, the shrinking space for civil society, and address threats to independent trade unions and obstacles to EU funding to NGOs in scorecards and GSP+ dialogues, as these issues are directly related to legal obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and relevant provisions of the International Labour Organisation core conventions;
Amendment 46 #
2018/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas respect for and the promotion, indivisibility and safeguarding of the universality of human rights, as well as the promotion of democratic principles and values are the cornerstones of the EU’s ethical and legal acquis and its common security and defenceforeign and security policy (CFSP); whereas the EU should continue to strive to be a leading player in the universal promotion and protection of human rights, including at via multilateral levelcooperation, in particular through an active and constructive role in diverse UN bodies;
Amendment 83 #
2018/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Stresses the vital and central role played by human rights defenders and NGOs in promoting and supporting the application of the fundamental rights enshrined in the core international human rights treaties; underlines, in this respect, the importance of the EU’s capacity to maintain support, through the European Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights (EIDHR), and European Endowment for Democracy (EED) for human rights defenders and NGOs in situations where they are most at risk, while devoting special attention to the ProtectDefenders.eu mechanism;
Amendment 91 #
2018/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Praises the work done by the EU’s Special Representative for Human Rights (EUSR), Stavros Lambrinidis, in increasing the effectiveness, cohesion and visibility of human rights in EU foreign policy and recalls its request for this mandate to be made permanent; welcomes the recent approach on the EU’s Good Human Rights Stories initiative, which focuses on the best practices employed by various countries; calls once more for a revision of the mandate, so as to grant the EUSR own-initiative powers, adequate resources and the ability to speak publicly in order to report on achievements of visits to third countries and to communicate the EU's positions on human rights topics;
Amendment 165 #
2018/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Acknowledges that the open internet and technological advances have enabled human rights abuses to be reported more swiftly; criticises the attempts by some governments to control mass communication tools; is concerned at the prevalence of fake news and disinformation generated by state and non- state actors in 2017, which may have contributed to the spreading of anti-human rights narratives, limited access to free, accurate and impartial information, incited violence, hatred or discrimination against certain groups or individuals, and affected the outcomes of elections;
Amendment 169 #
2018/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Reaffirms that freedom of thought, conscience, religion and belief, and the rights to apostasy and to espouse atheistic views, must be enhanced unconditionally through interreligious and intercultural dialogue; condemns the persecution of and attacks against ethnic and religious groups in 2017; deplores the attempts by state and non-state actors to limit freedom of religion and belief and freedom of expression by adopting and implementing blasphemy laws, among other means; requests that further action be taken to protect religious minorities, non-believers and atheists, including the victims of blasphemy laws, and calls for the EU and its Member States to increase their engagement in political discussions to repeal such laws; supports the EU’s efforts torequests concrete action towards the effective implementation of the EU Guidelines on the promotion and protection of freedom of religion or belief, including by ensuring the systematic and consistent training of EU staff at headquarters and in delegations; supports fully the EU practice of taking the lead on thematic resolutions on freedom of religion and belief at the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) and the UN General Assembly (UNGA); supports fully the work of the EU Special Envoy for the Promotion of Freedom of Religion or Belief outside the EU, Mr Ján Figel;
Amendment 188 #
2018/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Strongly condemns all heinous crimes and human rights violations committed by state and non-state actors, such as Boko Haram in Nigeria and ISIS/Daesh in Syria and Iraq; is horrified at the vast range of crimes committed, including murder, torture, rape, enslavement and sexual slavery, the recruitment of child soldiers, forced religious conversions and the systematic killing of religious minorities, including Christians, Yazidis and others; urges the EU and its Member States to fight crimes of genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes, and to ensure that their perpetrators are brought to justice; calls for the EU to provide support for organisations that collect, keep and protect evidence – digital or otherwise – of the crimes committed by any parties to these conflicts, in order to facilitate their prosecution at an international level; supports the key role played by the International Criminal Court (ICC) in cases where the states concerned are unable or unwilling to exercise their jurisdiction; calls on all the signatories of the Rome Statute to coordinate and cooperate with the ICC; reiterates its call for the VP/HR to appoint an EUSR on International Humanitarian Law and International Justice with a mandate to promote, mainstream and represent the EU’s commitment to the fight against impunity;
Amendment 205 #
2018/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Deeply regrets the lack of respect for international humanitarian law (IHL) and expresses its strong condemnation of the deadly attacks that were carried out with such alarming frequency against hospitals, schools and other civilian targets in armed conflicts around the world in 2017; believes that the international condemnation of attacks must be backed up by independent investigations and genuine accountability; commends the work done by aid workers when delivering humanitarian aid; calls on the Member States, the EU institutions and the VP/HR to ensure that EU policies and actions relating to IHL are developed coherently and effectively and to use all the instruments at their disposal to address this matter; concludes that more detailed reporting by the EU and its Member States on the implementation of the Guidelines on Promoting Compliance with International Humanitarian Law in specific conflict situations should have been made available, not least the EU Annual Report on Human Rights and Democracy; calls on the international community to set up instruments to minimise the warning- response gap in order to prevent the emergence, re-emergence and escalation of violent conflict, such as the EU’s early warning system;
Amendment 227 #
2018/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 b (new)
Paragraph 21 b (new)
21 b. Recalls that the experience gained and lessons learned from transitions to democracy within the framework of enlargement and neighbourhood policy could contribute positively to the identification of best practices that could be used to support and consolidate other democratisation processes worldwide; expresses its conviction that the revised European neighbourhood policy should continue to have the promotion of human rights and democratic principles at its core; reiterates the fact that the promotion of human rights and democracy are in the interest of both partner countries and the EU;
Amendment 228 #
2018/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 c (new)
Paragraph 21 c (new)
21 c. Considers that development cooperation and the promotion of human rights and democratic principles should go hand in hand;recalls, in this context, that the UN has stated that without a human rights-based approach, development goals cannot be fully achieved; recalls, in addition, that the EU has committed to supporting partner countries, taking into account their development situation and their progress as regards human rights and democracy;
Amendment 265 #
2018/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 a (new)
Paragraph 23 a (new)
23 a. Welcomes the ratification of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities; reiterates the importance of its efficient implementation by both the Member States and the EU institutions; stresses, in particular, the need to mainstream credibly the principle of universal accessibility and the rights of persons with disabilities in all relevant EU policies, including in the area of development cooperation, and underlines the prescriptive and horizontal nature of this issue; calls for the EU to incorporate the fight against discrimination on grounds of disability in its external action and development aid policies;
Amendment 326 #
2018/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27
Paragraph 27
27. Considers GSP+ trade schemes to be one of the main EU trade policy instruments for promoting democracy, human rights and environmental standards with third countries; calls on the Commission to review and better monitor GSP+ schemes in order to ensure that human rights standards are upheld by beneficiary countries;
Amendment 337 #
2018/2098(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29
Paragraph 29
29. Strongly condemns all forms of discrimination, including that carried out on the grounds of race, gender, sexual orientation, disability or any other status; is alarmed by the many manifestations of racism, xenophobia and other forms of intolerance and a lack of political representation for the most vulnerable groups, such as ethnic, linguistic and religious minorities, people with disabilities, the LGBTI community, women and children; calls for the EU to enhance its efforts to eradicate, without distinction, all forms of discrimination and to promote awareness, a culture of tolerance and inclusion, and special protection for the most vulnerable groups by means of human rights and political dialogues, the work of EU delegations and public diplomacy; welcomes in this regard that the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Resolution on “Rights of Indigenous Peoples” (Ref.: A/RES/71/178, Para 13, adopted in December 2016) proclaimed 2019 as the International Year of Indigenous Languages and invites all states, including the EU and its Member States, to contribute to the implementation and realization of this; calls on all countries to ensure that their respective institutions provide effective legal protection within their jurisdictions;
Amendment 9 #
2018/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas the EU’s security environment is now more volatile, unpredictable, complex, dangerous and ambiguous than at any time since the end of the Cold War; whereas current EU policies and resources may no longer suffice to promote a stable and prosperous neighbourhood and to leverage its power of attraction effectively while defending its interests and values;
Amendment 19 #
2018/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas by 2050, China, the US and India are expected to be the world’s leading economic powers, with even greater political clout, while in a long-term redistribution of economic and political weight away from the Atlantic to the Pacific none of the world’s largest economies will be an EU Member State;
Amendment 22 #
2018/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E a (new)
Recital E a (new)
Ea. whereas, notwithstanding their limitations, the emergence of new global actors, in particular China, suggests a shift in the existing dynamics of global governance which requires renewed efforts to enhance the legitimacy of existing global governance institutions;
Amendment 47 #
2018/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. whereas the EU’s aspirational global leadership, influence and global appeal hasve been undermined as a result of the 2008 global financial crisis, an unprecedented and still ongoing global migration, rising Euroscepticism, the proliferation of crises on our doorstep and rising scepticism of European public opinion on the projection of force abroad, which has given rise to a tendency to respond to events rather than to shape them;
Amendment 57 #
2018/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J
Recital J
J. whereas Western democracies have become more protectionist and inward- looking, and are swinging to the extremes at a time when multilateral cooperation is the only way to respond to global challenges effectively; whereas this power vacuum is being filled by other poweglobal actors such as China or Russia seeking to challenge, rather than embrace, the existing global governance based on international law, including principles of the UN Charter which ensure world peace, human rights and sustainable development significantly shaping the international strategic landscape in the years to come;
Amendment 78 #
2018/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Stresses that the time has come for the European Union to take its destiny into its own hands as a global power on the world stage; takes the view that the EU should embrace its role as a fully-fledged, sovereign political power in international relations that helps to resolve conflicts worldwide and shapes global governance willing and able to make a positive difference globally, while at the same time promoting our common interests as well as our principles and values;
Amendment 105 #
2018/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Regrets the fact that the Member States all too often prioritise their national interests, regardless of the possible consequences at a European level, thereby undermining the EU’s effectiveness. and as a result its credibility as a global player; calls for a greater division of responsibilities and enhanced coordination between the EU and its Member States; believes that good cooperation among the Member States is essential to safeguard our democracy, our freedom, and our social and environmental standards;
Amendment 139 #
2018/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Stresses that the EU should stay true to its principles of democracy, human rights and the rule of law as enshrined in our Treaties; emphasises the importance of assessing whether the promotion of these principles in third countries has been successful;
Amendment 153 #
2018/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Calls on the European External Action Service (EEAS), the Commission and the Member States to act strategically by using all the means at their disposal, including trade, development, humanitarian assistance and diplomatic and military tools, to strengthen the EU’s geopolitical influence and protect its interestas well as strategic communication and public diplomacy in order to strengthen the EU’s geopolitical influence and overall image in the world and protect its interests while pursuing its principles;
Amendment 183 #
2018/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 a (new)
Paragraph 9 a (new)
9a. Reminds that the changing balance of power of the 21st century requires a European strategy capable to adequately address the emergence of other global actors and to tackle challenges to its own ability to project influence on the international stage;
Amendment 233 #
2018/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Stresses that investing in the stability and prosperity of the Western Balkans means investing in the security and future of our Union; reiterates the European perspective for the countries in the Western Balkans; highlights that the enlargement process is merit-based, grounded on strict and fair conditionality and must depend on nothing other than the concrete results achieved by each individual country; reiterates the importance, throughout this process, of the rule of law, respect of human rights, in particular minority rights, reconciliation and good neighbourly relations, security and migration, socio-economic and sustainable development, transport and energy connectivity, environment protection and the digital agenda;
Amendment 245 #
2018/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Calls on the Commission and the EEAS to continue using the EU’s transformative power at its Eastern borders, using trade agreements and access to the single market as incentives to foster democratic reforms and the adoption of European rules and standards; reminds that a credible enlargement policy represents a strategic investment in Europe's security and prosperity and has already contributed to peace as well as the EU's power of attraction; further urges deepening of people-to-people contacts and better communication on EU support and cooperation;
Amendment 284 #
2018/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 e (new)
Paragraph 17 e (new)
17e. Emphasises that strengthening regional security in the Indo-Pacific is of critical importance to the interests of the EU and its Member States; stresses that all disputes should be settled through peaceful means based on international laws; takes note that official dialogue between China and Taiwan has been frozen over the past two years; encourages a quick resumption of bilateral talks to de-escalate tensions between the two sides and maintain peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait; reiterates its firm support for Taiwan's meaningful participation in international organisations, mechanisms and activities;
Amendment 293 #
2018/2097(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Believes that, despite their importance, soft power and institution building alone are not sufficient to exert influence in a world where power politics and hard power are increasingly significant; believes that the effectiveness of the EU’s foreign policy will ultimately depend, to a large extent, on the resources and capabilities that support it as well as its ability to lead by example;
Amendment 152 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16
Recital 16
(16) The Programme should be more inclusive by improving its outreach to those with fewer opportunities, including through more flexible learning mobility formats, and by fostering participation ofmobility formats, simplified administrative procedures, targeting of beneficiary organisations working with groups under-represented in Erasmus+, youth-friendly and clear information and communication about the programme and by fostering and supporting the participation of local organisations and small organisations, in particular newcomers, youth organisations, volunteer-based and community-based grassroots organisations that work directly with disadvantaged learners of all ages. Virtual formats, such as virtual cooperation, blended and virtual mobility, should be promoted to reach more participants, in particular those with fewer opportunities and those for whom moving physically to a country other than their country of residence would be an obstacllearners with fewer opportunities of all ages, and organisations working with and supporting people from marginalised groups, such as people with an ethnic minority background, people with disabilities and LGBTI people. Virtual formats, such as virtual cooperation, blended and virtual mobility, should be promoted to reach more participants and complement the mobility experience.
Amendment 223 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 23
Recital 23
(23) The Programme should also enhance the learning of languages, including minority and unofficial languages, as well as national sign languages, in particular through widened use of accessible online tools, as e-learning offers additional advantages for language learning in terms of access and flexibility. The online tools and portals must be fully accessible in line with Directive (EU) 2016/2102 on the accessibility of the websites and mobile applications of public sector bodies.
Amendment 429 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point e
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point e
(e) language learning opportunities, including those supporting mobility activities., and including minority and unofficial languages, as well as national sign languages;
Amendment 629 #
2018/0191(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 22 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Article 22 – paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. All Programme documents shall be available in all the official and co- official languages of the European Union in order to ensure equal opportunities.
Amendment 16 #
2017/2283(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas Ukraine deserves particular praiseacknowledgement for reforms in the areas of energy, health, pensions, education and decentralisation;
Amendment 56 #
2017/2283(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Emphasises that the effectiveness of reform implementation is directly linked to the preliminary stages of policymaking and legislation; notes, however, that the policymaking cycle is lacking the essential instrument of public consultation and research-informed decision-making; stresses the need to avoid any influence of election campaign on reforms;
Amendment 87 #
2017/2283(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Recalls that the government has committed to further amending the constitution in line with the recommendations of the Venice Commission; urges the speedy adoption of the new electoral code and the law on party financingduring the amending process of legislation take care of respecting the existing minority rights (for example in formulating the draft text of ethno-national policy of Ukraine) and take fully into account the non- discrimination act adopted by Ukraine; urges the speedy adoption of the law on party financing and the new electoral code which has to secure equal possibilities for representation and running for a mandate of candidates of all nationalities living in Ukraine by recreation of constituencies that enable the candidates of national minorities to gain mandate;
Amendment 114 #
2017/2283(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 a (new)
Paragraph 20 a (new)
20a. Underlines the need for independent media and media pluralism to ensure the security of media workers and journalists, and calls on not to limit the opportunities of minority language media sources in order to have equal access of citizens of all ethnics to information;
Amendment 118 #
2017/2283(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. WelcomUrges Ukraine’s intention to amend the law on education in line with the recommendations of the Venice Commission to amend the law on education to ensure the respect for rights already exercised of persons belonging to national minorities as enshrined in UN and Council of Europe Conventions and related protocols, non-discrimination of persons belonging to minorities and respect for diversity, in line with the recommendations of the Venice Commission, which has to be fully implemented on the basis of a substantive dialogue with the representatives of persons belonging to national minorities, including legislation to extend the transition period until 2023 and which regulates exemption for private schools;
Amendment 132 #
2017/2283(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Welcomes Ukraine’s economic stabilisation and the progress achieved in implementing the DCFTA; encourages the Commission to support Ukraine in identifying areas that could further foster economic diversification and in prioritising them in the process of implementing the DCFTA; and calls on Ukraine not to take legislation incompatible with DCFTA;
Amendment 149 #
2017/2283(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
25. Praises Ukraine for good cooperation in the energy sector, not least the progress it has made in energy efficiency; points out the need for continued reforms, in particular to complete reform of the gas and electricity market, and to end existing monopolies, which will bring long-term economic benefits to industry and consumers, moreover encourages the Commission to ensure that all of the pipeline projects comply with EU regulation and all projects are examined on the basis of the same conditions;
Amendment 162 #
2017/2283(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
26. Welcomes the immense effortsteps undertaken to modernise Ukraine’s army, while encouraging, nonetheless, reform of the defence industry;
Amendment 1 #
2017/2280(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 33 a (new)
Citation 33 a (new)
- having regard to the Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions of 6 February 2018 entitled ‘A credible enlargement perspective for and enhanced EU engagement with the Western Balkans' (COM(2018)65),
Amendment 18 #
2017/2280(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1 a. Stresses that these financing instruments are essential for effective EU external action, in particular in the ENI and IPA II recipient countries;
Amendment 120 #
2017/2280(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Recommends a stronger emphasis on democratisation, strengthening the rule of law and improving respect for universal humanstrengthening democratic institutions, fight against corruption and building administrative capacities, thereby strengthening the rule of law, legal security and improving consistent implementation of human and minority rights;
Amendment 227 #
2017/2280(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 40
Paragraph 40
40. Notes that this could be achieved through a simplification of the current architecture while finding it important for the current IPA II and the ENI to continue as separate instruments;
Amendment 241 #
2017/2280(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 41
Paragraph 41
41. Stresses that a single instrument cannot exist without the inclusion of clear and dedicated envelopes for the various goals, objectives and priorities of EU external action, including democracy, human rights, the rule of law, support to civil society, conflict resolution, fragile states, development policy, economic and social development, and support to countries in various stages of EU accession; underlines that a supplementary and progressively increasing financial support is needed for candidate countries, especially frontrunners such as Montenegro and Serbia, in order to ensure their successful preparation for full membership; stresses that the result-oriented approach of IPA II for candidate and potential candidate countries should be reinforced in the post- 2020 pre-accession assistance framework;
Amendment 17 #
2017/2274(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas the 19th EU-China Summit in 2017 advanced a bilateral strategic partnership, which has a global impact, and highlighted joint commitments to addressing global challenges, such as climate change, common security threats and the promotingon of multilateralism, peacekeeping and peace-building;
Amendment 21 #
2017/2274(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas, largely unnoticignored in Europe, China has been rapidly and systematically increasing itsthe Chinese leadership has gradually and systematically increased efforts to translate its economic weight into political influence through strategic infrastructure investments and transport links, ands well as strategic communication aimed at influencing European political and economic decision- makers, media, academics and the wider publicuniversities and academic publishers and the wider public in order to shape perceptions about China and build up a positive image for the country, by building up ‘networks’ of supportive European individuals across societies;
Amendment 30 #
2017/2274(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas the so called 16+1 format between China andon one hand and eleven Central and Eastern European Countries (CEE) and five Balkans countries on the other hand was established in 2012 in the aftermath of the financial crisis and as part of Chinese sub-regional diplomacy; whereas Chinese investments in those countries are wide-ranging to develop large- scale infrastructure projects and strengthen economic and trade cooperation; whereas Chinese investments in those countries, as well as overall in the EU, are wide-ranging and have become a critical feature of EU-China relations;
Amendment 39 #
2017/2274(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is the most ambitious foreign policy initiative the country has ever adoptedannounced by President Xi Jinping in 2013 as the "One Belt One Road" and elevated to constitutional rank within the Chinese Communist Party in 2017 is the most ambitious foreign policy initiative the country has ever adopted covering two-thirds of global population and three-fourth of global energy resources; where BRI was further strengthened with the establishment of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) in 2015; whereas at the 16+1 summit held in late December 2017, China pledged to invest USD 3 billion in infrastructure in the 16 CEE countries as part of the BRI; whereas the Chinese infrastructure projects will create large debts for the European governments to Chinese state-owned banks and few jobs in Europe, and are often awarded without transparent tenders;
Amendment 80 #
2017/2274(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J a (new)
Recital J a (new)
Ja. whereas the situation in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, home to ten million Muslim Uygurs, has rapidly deteriorated in recent years, in particular under the rule and tightened security measures of the current president with the establishment of an extrajudicial detention program holding tens of thousands of people who are forced to receive political 're-education', as well as the development of a sophisticated network of invasive digital surveillance, mass deployment of police, strict restrictions on religious practices, the Uyghur language and customs;
Amendment 106 #
2017/2274(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Reminds that the EU-China Comprehensive Strategic Partnership is founded on a shared commitment to openness and working together as part of a rules-based international system; stresses that both sides committed to establishing a transparent, just and equitable system of global governance with a central role for the UN in international affairs, sharing the responsibility for promoting peace, prosperity and sustainable development;
Amendment 112 #
2017/2274(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 b (new)
Paragraph 1 b (new)
1b. Is concerned that the increase in China’s global economic and political weight over the past decade has put the shared commitments at the core of EU- China relations at test; calls therefore on the EU to reassess and reaffirm the principles underlying EU-China relations, as well as to reassert the principles at the core of its own external action which have inspired its creation, including democracy, the rule of law, human rights and respect for the principles of the UN Charter and international law; reminds that the EU’s engagement with China should be principled, practical and pragmatic, staying true to its interests and values;
Amendment 116 #
2017/2274(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 c (new)
Paragraph 1 c (new)
1c. Stresses that addressing global challenges, such as security, disarmament, non-proliferation, counter- terrorism and cyberspace, cooperation on peace in Africa, climate change, energy, oceans and resource efficiency, global health and development all require genuine partnership between the EU and China; urges that the EU capitalise on China’s commitment to tackling global problems such as climate change and further extend successful cooperation in peacekeeping with China, as one of the biggest contributors to the UN budget and an increasing contributor of troops to UN peacekeeping operations, to other areas of joint interest while promoting multilateralism and a global governance based on respect for international law, including international humanitarian and human rights law;
Amendment 133 #
2017/2274(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Reminds that as it continues to grow and integrate into the global economy along its ‘going out’ policy as announced in 2001, China seeks to increase its access to the European market for Chinese goods and services and to technology and know-how in order to support plans such as “Made in China 2025”, and to strengthen its political and diplomatic influence in Europe; stresses that these ambitions have intensified in particular in the aftermath of the 2008 global financial crisis shaping new dynamics in EU-China relations;
Amendment 136 #
2017/2274(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 b (new)
Paragraph 2 b (new)
2b. Is worried about the increase of Chinese investment activity in recent years overall in the EU with several high- profile deals and acquisitions in particular in the west in high-tech industries and advanced manufacturing, such as industrial machinery and equipment, automotive industry and electronics; calls therefore on all EU member states receiving such investment to protect European interests, in particular in strategic industries and critical or security-sensitive technologies;
Amendment 140 #
2017/2274(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 c (new)
Paragraph 2 c (new)
2c. Is concerned about the lack of reciprocity and fair competition on issues such as trade and investment in EU- China relations, leading to a highly restricted Chinese market and a much more open European economy; calls therefore on China to open more sectors in its market, such as telecommunications, energy, healthcare and finance, in line with commitments articulated by the Chinese leadership;
Amendment 253 #
2017/2274(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
12a. Reminds that as North Korea’s biggest trade partner and main source of food and energy, China remains of instrumental role in addressing North Korea’s globally threatening provocations together with the international community; welcomes therefore China’s recent inclination to uphold some of the international sanctions against Pyongyang, including suspending coal imports from North Korea and restricting financial activities of North Korean individuals and businesses and trade restrictions in textiles and seafood and welcomes Beijing’s efforts to establish dialogue with Pyongyang; urges the EU to speak with unity on China to play a constructive role on supporting the upcoming Inter-Korean summit as well as the North Korea-US summit with a view to actively assisting with the verifiable denuclearization of North Korea and establishment of permanent peace on the Korean Peninsula;
Amendment 8 #
2017/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A (new)
Recital A (new)
A. whereas the current framework for relations between Armenia and the European Union is the 1996 Partnership and Cooperation Agreement which entered into force in 1999 and which is to be replaced by this Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement;
Amendment 9 #
2017/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B (new)
Recital B (new)
B. whereas, through the Eastern Partnership, the EU and Armenia have based their relations on a shared commitment to international law and fundamental values, including democracy, the rule of law and good governance, respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms;
Amendment 10 #
2017/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C (new)
Recital C (new)
C. whereas there remain concerns about Armenia’s full respect for some of the above-mentioned core values, notably as regards democracy and the rule of law which are undermined by corruption, vote-buying, organised crime and abusive oligarchic control;
Amendment 11 #
2017/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D (new)
Recital D (new)
D. whereas the geographic location of Armenia between Europe, Central Asia and the Middle East and neighbouring regional powers, notably Russia, Iran and Turkey, is both strategic and challenging; whereas the non-recognition by some of past tragedies - notably the Armenian genocide, the presence of foreign troops in Armenia as well as the protracted conflicts in the South Caucasus, affecting also Azerbaijan and Georgia, pose a major threat to all partners’ security and regional stability; whereas the Nagorno- Karabakh conflict can only be solved peacefully in line with the OSCE 2009 Basic Principles, notably through the efforts and proposals of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs;
Amendment 12 #
2017/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E (new)
Recital E (new)
E. whereas the EU is Armenia’s main trading partner and first donor, whereas Armenia is also a member of the Eurasian Economic Union thus demonstrating that the European Union does not hold as a prerequisite for partners to choose a deepening of relations with the EU at the expense of their relations with third parties, even if some opportunities - such as a Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area (DCFTA) with the EU - were not attainable in this context;
Amendment 13 #
2017/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F (new)
Recital F (new)
F. whereas the new agreement sets a new legal basis to reinvigorate the political dialogue and broaden the scope of economic cooperation as well as cooperation in sectors such as energy, transport, infrastructure and the environment; whereas these provisions are expected to have a positive impact on Armenia in terms of promoting democratic standards, economic growth and sustainable development; whereby such prospects are particularly important for Armenia’s youth including through improved education and more job opportunities; whereas both EU and Armenian citizens stand to benefit from increased cooperation;
Amendment 23 #
2017/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Recalls that significant progress in terms of upholding core values such as the rule of law, defending the independence of the judiciary and delivering results in the fight against corruption, is key to unlocking further prospects, notably that of a possible visa libera; in this respect, looks forward to the EU considering in due course the opening of visa liberalisation dialogue with Armenia, provided that conditions for well-managed and secure mobility are in place, including the effective implementation of visa facilistation dialogue; and readmission agreements between the Parties;
Amendment 26 #
2017/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Notes that the territorial application of the Agreement covers on the internationally recognised territory of Armenia and that of the European Unionone hand, the territories in which the Treaty of the European Union, the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union and the Treaty establishing the European Atomic Energy Community are applied and under the condition laid down in those Treaties and, on the other hand, to the territory of Republic of Armenia;
Amendment 77 #
2017/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Welcomes the adoption of anti- domestic violence legislation in the Armenian Parliament in December 2017, on 8 December 2017, of the Law on the Prevention of Violence within the Family, Protection of Victims of Violence within the Family and Restoration of Peace (Cohesion) in the Family by the National Assembly; commends Armenia on the signature, on 18 January 2018, of the Council of Europe’s Istanbul Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence and encourages Armenia to swiftly ratify and thoroughly implement this Convention to effectively meet its commitments to international standards in this field;
Amendment 82 #
2017/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)
Paragraph 16 a (new)
16a. Calls on Armenia to adopt a comprehensive standalone law on anti- discrimination, prepared with the support of civil society organisations, that would include, as a minimum, a definition of the concept of discrimination, a list of grounds on which discrimination is prohibited in the spirit of Article 21 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, a provision for the defence of rights against all types of discrimination, a provision regarding the burden of proof;
Amendment 83 #
2017/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 b (new)
Paragraph 16 b (new)
16b. Urges the Armenian authorities to put a high priority on ending gender based sex-selection taking place through selective abortions which, together with that in Azerbaijan, remains one of the most widespread in the world after China;
Amendment 88 #
2017/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 g (new)
Paragraph 16 g (new)
16g. Calls on Armenia to eradicate child labour and to ensure labour rights in accordance with ILO standards, including contracts, vacation, compensation for extra hours and establishing a fully-fledged labour inspection system;
Amendment 104 #
2017/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
Amendment 108 #
2017/2269(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26 a (new)
Paragraph 26 a (new)
26a. Emphasizes the importance of the provisions on dialogue and cooperation on employment policy in order to provide better jobs with improved working conditions, notably for young Armenians;
Amendment 24 #
2017/2206(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas human rights treaties recognise the right of indigenous peoples to their ancestral lands and resources and provide that states must consult indigenous peoples in good faith in order to obtain their free, prior and informed consent pertaining to projects that can have a negativen impact on their ways of life or that can lead to the displacement of their populations;
Amendment 43 #
2017/2206(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas increasing demand and growing competition over natural resources is driving a ‘global land rush’ that in several countries is putting the territories traditionally inhabited and used by indigenous peoples and local communities under unsustainable pressure; whereas the exploitation of those natural resources by the agribusiness, energy, timber and mining sectors, among other extractive industries, as well as by illegal logging and large infrastructure and development projects as well as governments and the local population, constitutes one of the main causes of enduring conflict over land tenure and the main cause for water and soil contamination;
Amendment 107 #
2017/2206(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Urges the EU and its Member States to redoublestrengthen their efforts in order to ensure the physical integrity and the legal assistance of indigenous, environmental and land rights defenders, taking particular account of the protection of women, children and people with disabilities;
Amendment 116 #
2017/2206(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Calls on all states, including the EU and its Member States, to ensure that their environmental conservation policpolitical strategies fully respect the rights of indigenous peoples and rural communities so that when protected areas are created or extended, compliance with these rights has already been established;
Amendment 135 #
2017/2206(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Urges the EU and its Member Sall states to monitor and publicly report the land acquisitions, particularly those involving EU-based corporations and actors or EU-funded development projects, in countries where such deals could result in the violation of human rights, instructing and capacitating EU Delegations and embassies for that purpose ;
Amendment 158 #
2017/2206(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Calls on the EU to set up a grievance mechanism whereby indigenous and local communities can lodge complaints regarding violations and abuses of their rights resulting from EU-based business activities or EU development or investment projects, regardless of the country where the violations and abuses occurred, in order to ensure that the victims have effective access to justice, as well as to technical and legal assistance; calls on the EU and the Member States to engage in the negotiations to adopt a legally binding international human rights instrument for transnational corporations and other companies;
Amendment 170 #
2017/2206(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading 4
Subheading 4
Sustainable and economic development tofor indigenous people
Amendment 181 #
2017/2206(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Calls on all states to commit themselves to ensuring that indigenous peoples have genuine access to health and, education and economic opportunities, to promoting intercultural public policies, to incorporating indigenous languages and cultures into their school programs and to developing initiatives to raise awareness among civil society of the rights of indigenous peoples and the importance of respecting their beliefs and values in order to tackle prejudice and misinformation;
Amendment 190 #
2017/2206(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Recommends that greater prominence be given to this issuee situation of indigenous peoples in the EU’s foreign policy, including in its human rights dialogues with third countries, EU policy documents as well as in trade, cooperation and development agreements negotiated or concluded with other countries; calls on the EU and its Member States to take into account the result of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) in the annual monitoring report in order to ascertain the conformity of their policies with the rights of indigenous peoples;
Amendment 201 #
2017/2206(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Calls on the EU to ensure that all EU-funded development projects that could in any way negatively affect the livelihoods, lands and resources of indigenous peoples rigorously comply with the principle of free, prior and informed consent;
Amendment 24 #
2017/2130(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas significant progress has been made since the last Summit, notably with the conclusion and entry into force of three Association Agreements including a Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area (DCFTA) with Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine, as well as visa-free regimes with Georgia and Ukraine since 2017 (and with Moldova since 2014), the conclusion of negotiations on a Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement with Armenia, the launching of negotiations on a new comprehensive agreement with Azerbaijan, the establishment of dialogue with Belarus and the adoption of major reforms in a number of these countries with the political, technical and financial support of the European Union;
Amendment 61 #
2017/2130(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – point c
Paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – point c
(c) to strengthen civil society in the partner countries and its vital role within the Eastern Partnership both as an indispensable actor in the process of democracy consolidation and as a platform for regional cooperation by uncompromisingly opposing all legislation that seeks to curtail its legitimate activities and by encouraging its deeper involvement in scrutinising and monitoring the implementation of reforms related to the Partnership as well as by promoting the transparency and accountability of public institutions;
Amendment 91 #
2017/2130(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – point k
Paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – point k
(k) to ensure that the outcomes of the November 2017 Summit will also provide a renewed impetus to boost sustainable economic growth, trade and investment opportunities, including intra-regional opportunities and cross-border cooperation, and with a particular emphasis on Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs);
Amendment 198 #
2017/2130(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2 – point x
Paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2 – point x
(x) to underline that the Eastern Partnership aims to create the necessary conditions for close political association and economic integration, including participation in EU programmes; points out that, pursuant to Article 49 of the TEU, any European state may apply to become a member of the European Union, provided it adheres to the Copenhagen criteria and the principles of democracy, that it respects fundamental freedoms and human and minority rights and that it upholds the rule of lawrights including the rights of persons belonging to minorities and that it upholds the rule of law, which are values at the core of the EU;
Amendment 203 #
2017/2130(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2 – point y
Paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2 – point y
(y) to invite Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine to focus on the implementation of the Association agendas in order to unlock all the opportunities available through the Association Agreements, engaging also in the joint discussions on the progress, opportunities and challenges relating to the AA/DCFTA-related reforms; reiterates the importance of genuine implementation of the abovementioned reforms for the future stability and development of the countries and the wellbeing of their societies; to reaffirm that the prospect of EU membership requires significant progress in terms of the implementation of these reforms, notably as regards the rule of law, respect for human rights, including minority rights, and good governance;
Amendment 211 #
2017/2130(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2 – point aa
Paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2 – point aa
(aa) to support the multilateral dimension of the Eastern Partnership as a means of increasing multilateral confidence-building, creating opportunities for regional cooperation, including through transnational civil society platforms to help exchange, mutual learning and understanding, crucial for the sustainable development of the region, and providing additional added-value, including in the sectoral policies;
Amendment 88 #
2017/2122(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Expresses profound concern that human rights, the rule of law and democratic values continue to be under threat worldwide; recalls that the EU has committed to promoting the universality and indivisibility of human rights and fundamental freedoms as well as to advancing democratic principles; considers that, given the current challenging times, the EU, together with its Member States, should double their efforts in promoting these values worldwide;
Amendment 96 #
2017/2122(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Reiterates its firm belief that the EU and its Member States must actively pursue the principle of mainstreaming human rights and democracy in all EU policies as mutually reinforcing and fundamental principles at the core of the EU; reiterates, in this regard, the crucial importance of ensuring increased coherence between the EU’s internal and external policies;
Amendment 100 #
2017/2122(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2 a. Recalls that the EU’s objective to increase its international influence as a credible and legitimate international actor is greatly shaped by its ability to pursue human rights and democracy externally, in line with its commitments enshrined in its founding treaties;
Amendment 101 #
2017/2122(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Emphasises the importance of enhanced cooperation between the Commission, the Council, the European External Action Service (EEAS), Parliament and the EU delegations to ensure a consistent and united voice in favour of human rights and democratic principles; underlines, moreover, the importance of a strong engagement for promoting those values in multilateral fora, including through timely coordination at the EU level and an active approach during negotiations; encourages, in this context, the EU to initiate and co-sponsor resolutions and to intensify the practice of cross-regional initiatives in all UN human rights mechanisms;
Amendment 144 #
2017/2122(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10 a. Recalls the European Union's strong opposition to the death penalty;takes note that in 2016 there was a decrease in the number of executions carried out globally compared to the previous year and expresses its grave concern that, nevertheless, the overall number of executions remains higher than the average recorded for the previous decade;underlines in this context the importance for the EU and its Member States to continue their efforts towards a global abolition of the death penalty;
Amendment 259 #
2017/2122(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Is of the opinion thatUrges the EU shouldto step up its efforts to promote the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary at multilateral and bilateral levels as a fundamental principle for the consolidations of democracy; encourages the EU to support the fair administration of justice worldwide by assisting legislative and institutional reform processes in third countries; encourages, in addition, the EU delegations and Member States’ embassies to monitor trials systematically with a view to promoting the independence of the judiciary;
Amendment 282 #
2017/2122(INI)
24. Considers that development cooperation and the promotion of human rights, and democratic principles including the rule of law and good governance, should go hand in hand; recalls, in this context, that the UN has stated that without a human rights-based approach, development goals cannot be fully achieved; recalls, in addition, that the EU has committed to supporting partner countries, taking into account their development situation and their progress as regards human rights and democracy;
Amendment 310 #
2017/2122(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29 a (new)
Paragraph 29 a (new)
29a. Stresses that enlargement policy is one of the strongest tools for reinforcing respect for democratic principles and human rights in the light of current political developments in candidate and potential candidate countries; calls on the Commission to strengthen its efforts to support the reinforcement of democratic political cultures, the respect of the rule of law, the independence of media, as well as of the judiciary, and the fight against corruption in those countries;
Amendment 311 #
2017/2122(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29 b (new)
Paragraph 29 b (new)
29b. Reiterates, in this context, its call on the Commission to develop EU guidelines for democracy support;
Amendment 324 #
2017/2122(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 35
Paragraph 35
35. Welcomes the adoption of the EU Annual Report on Human Rights and Democracy in the World 2015; considers that the Annual Report is an indispensable tool for scrutiny, communication and debate on the EU’s policy on human rights and democracy in the world; and a valuable instrument providing a comprehensive overview on the EU’s priorities, efforts and also challenges in this field and to identify further effective ways to address them;
Amendment 327 #
2017/2122(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 36
Paragraph 36
36. Reiterates its invitation to the VP/HR to take part in a debate with MEPs in two plenary sessions per year, once when the Annual Report is presented and once in response to its own report; recalls that written answers also play an important role in interinstitutional relations, as they allow for a systematic and in-depth follow- up to all the points raised by Parliament and thus contribute to the strengthening of effective coordination;
Amendment 338 #
2017/2122(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 41
Paragraph 41
41. Supports fully the human rights country strategies (HRCSs), which tailor EU action to each country’s specific situation and needs; reiterates its call for MEPs to be given access to strategy content; underlines strongly the importance of taking into account the HRCSs at all levels of policy-making vis-à-vis individual third countries; reiterates that HRCSs should correspond to EU actions to be implemented in each country depending on specific situations, and should contain measurable progress indicators and the possibility to adjust them if necessary;
Amendment 343 #
2017/2122(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 44
Paragraph 44
44. Recalls the EU’s commitment to placing human rights and democracy at the centre of its relations with third countries; stresses, therefore, that the advancement of human rights and democratic principles needs to be supported through all EU policies with an external dimension, such as enlargement and neighbourhood policy, the CSDP, and environment, development, trade, justice and home affairs policies;
Amendment 351 #
2017/2122(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 46 a (new)
Paragraph 46 a (new)
46a. Stresses that in order to fulfil the ambitious objectives set out in the new Action Plan, the EU must set aside sufficient resources and expertise, both in terms of dedicated human resources in delegations and in headquarters and in terms of funds available;
Amendment 4 #
2017/2121(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 7 a (new)
Citation 7 a (new)
– having regard to the 2011 Commission Communication on Human rights and democracy at the heart of EU external action – towards a more effective approach;
Amendment 33 #
2017/2121(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Reminds that the pursuit of rule of law, human rights and democracy, as mutually reinforcing principles, are at the heart of the EU’s foreign policy; recalls therefore that for the EU to be able to increase its international diplomatic and political clout and shape the evolving world order as a credible and legitimate international actor on the global scene, it must continue conducting its foreign policy upholding these principles;
Amendment 148 #
2017/2121(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Acknowledges that further efforts should be made to make legal migration and mobility possible, including at bilateral level, by fostering well-managed mobility between and within continents, as well as encouraging policies that promote in order to ensure that migration can occur only through regular channels for migration;
Amendment 219 #
2017/2121(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Calls for stronger support for the neighbours of our neighbours, in particular in Africa, where close cooperation between European and local small and medium- sized enterprises, in partnership with civil society, and support for African countries in building democratic, transparent and effective institutions are needed; considers international cooperation and development policies to be fundamental instruments for achieving such objectives and urges the need for improved, efficient and effective allocation and use of EU funding and for greater synergies with other international organisations; emphasises the need to address the major security threats in the Sahel, Sahara, Lake Chad, Great Lakes and Horn of Africa regions with a view to eradicating the terrorist threat posed by ISIL/Daesh, al-Qaeda and Boko Haram, or any other affiliated terrorist groups;
Amendment 260 #
2017/2121(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Urges the Commission, the EEAS and the Member States to adopt an EU comprehensive approach at every relevant opportunity, and believes that coherent, coordinated action across EU polices, in particular in the areas of humanitarian aid, development, trade, energy, climate and science, should be applied in the EU’s external action in a consistent and structured manner in order to harness the EU’s collective weight; believes that energy security and climate diplomacy remain important aspects of the EU’s common foreign and security policy to be addressed as part of the comprehensive approach, and that the Energy Union should be further advanced;
Amendment 275 #
2017/2121(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Takes the view that the EU institutions must improve their capacity to anticipate conflicts and crises liable to entail human rights violations; believes that the EU needs to be able to react more swiftly and effectively to developing crises and should place a greater emphasis on preventing conflicts at an early stage; stresses therefore the need to deepen its cooperation with partner countries and international organisations to adapt to changing circumstances;
Amendment 292 #
2017/2121(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Is of the view that Europe’s power lies in its ability to build a community of values and culture that binds together all Europeans; believes in that context that the EU plays a major role as a promoter of democracy, rule of law and human rights and should continue to promote its values outside the EU in line with its commitments to pursue these values in all areas of its external action; highlights that cultural diplomacy should become a substantial part of the EU’s external action and urges the Commission to foster the development of ambitious science diplomacy;
Amendment 376 #
2017/2121(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Calls on the VP/HR to ensure that future annual reports will be more concise and forward-looking, focusing on the most important priorities for the year ahead and an evaluation of the measures launched in the previous year, including their financial implications, providing a comprehensive overview on the EU’s performance in this regard;
Amendment 7 #
2017/2069(INI)
Draft opinion
Citation 4 (new)
Citation 4 (new)
– having regard to the Copenhagen criteria, and the body of Union rules that a candidate country must fulfil if it wishes to join the Union (the acquis),
Amendment 14 #
2017/2069(INI)
Draft opinion
Citation 11 (new)
Citation 11 (new)
– having regard to the Council of Europe’s Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities and the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages,
Amendment 15 #
2017/2069(INI)
Draft opinion
Citation 12 (new)
Citation 12 (new)
– having regard to the study commissioned by the Policy Department C of the European Parliament at the request of the LIBE committees in 2016 entitled “Towards a Comprehensive EU Protection System for Minorities”,
Amendment 47 #
2017/2069(INI)
Ea. whereas experience shows that, pre-accession countries are more willing to respect the Copenhagen criteria on democracy, rule of law and fundamental rights and to advance the situation of minorities; whereas at present there is no adequate framework to guarantee the fulfilment of these criteria after accession and thus to protect EU citizens from the effects breaches of the Copenhagen criteria would entail;
Amendment 49 #
2017/2069(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital E b (new)
Recital E b (new)
Eb. whereas, when laying down the citizenship of the Union, article 9 of the TEU expressly mentions that the Union shall observe the principle of the equality of its citizens, who shall receive equal attention from its institutions, bodies, offices and agencies; whereas, despite the fact that equality and non-discrimination are key principles of the European legal framework, European citizens belonging to minority groups can be treated differently, depending on which EU Member State they live in and contingent on their country’s history, on national and international political contexts etc.;
Amendment 51 #
2017/2069(INI)
Ec. whereas at present, except for infringement procedures, the EU has only tools of limited efficacy to respond to systematic and institutional manifestations of discrimination, racism and xenophobia against minorities across the EU Member States; whereas infringement proceedings do not cover threats falling outside the scope of EU secondary law;
Amendment 52 #
2017/2069(INI)
Draft opinion
Recital E d (new)
Recital E d (new)
Ed. whereas the Roma citizens of the EU make up the largest and most vulnerable minority group in the EU; whereas the Roma face multi-layered discrimination and social exclusion in Europe; Whereas EU soft law tools, such as the EU Framework for National Roma Integration Strategies (NRIS), have played only a limited role in ensuring that Member States respect their obligations to comply with fundamental human rights standards on minority protection and addressing institutional manifestations of discrimination;
Amendment 101 #
2017/2069(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Is of the opinion that, in order to fill with substance the reference made to minorities in article 2 of the TEU, and to the equality of all EU citizens in article 9 TEU, the aim of the EU should be to lay down high standards of minority protection, starting from those codified in international law instruments, such as those of the Council of Europe. Such standards should be strongly embedded in a legal framework guaranteeing democracy, rule of law and fundamental rights across the EU;
Amendment 104 #
2017/2069(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 b (new)
Paragraph 6 b (new)
6b. Believes that observation by the EU of the TEU requirement to respect, safeguard and enhance Europe’s cultural and linguistic diversity in the EU both among and within Member States would greatly reinforce the links between citizens and the European project;
Amendment 109 #
2017/2069(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 d (new)
Paragraph 6 d (new)
6d. Believes that the systematic discrimination of Roma citizens in their home countries, as well as their evictions and expulsions when they exercise their right to free movement to and residence in another member state are in contradiction with the fundamental right of non- discrimination on the basis of ethnic origin and the right move to and reside in another member state and put the foundations of EU citizenship rights to the test;
Amendment 113 #
2017/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Recognises the efforts made by Cuba to incorporate the United Nations fundamental principles on human and labour rights into its national legislation, and calls onurges Cuba to ratify the United Nations human rights conventions still pending, specifically the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women;
Amendment 116 #
2017/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7a. Expresses its concern that government control over freedom of expression has continued, whereby access to outside information is restricted, independent journalists are subject to arbitrary arrests, websites critical of the government are filtered and blocked and human rights defenders face harassment; calls on the government to ensure space for legitimate civil society action within a proper legal framework, as a free civil society is one of the foundations for the protection and support for human rights and democratic values in society;
Amendment 35 #
2017/2035(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. AcknowledgWelcomes that the EPCA introduced the possibility of negotiating a visa facilitation agreement between the EU and Kazakhstan;
Amendment 39 #
2017/2035(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. AcknowledgWelcomes some recent positive developments in the field of constitutional and administrative reforms as well as the establishment of a civil society consultative platform; is, however, concerned about the restrictive effects of the Criminal and Administrative Codes that entered into force in 2015 on civil society organisations and their activities;
Amendment 74 #
2017/2035(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Takes note of theWelcomes current administrative reforms and recommends further reforms guaranteeing a genuinely independent and impartial judiciary and more efficient efforts in fighting corruption at all levels;
Amendment 91 #
2017/2035(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Notes the existence of civil society dialogue platforms; reiterates its concern about the legislation on NGOs, undermining their independence and ability to operate; urges the authorities to ensure that NGOs are able to carry out their legitimate activities and thus contribute to the sustainable development of society and the strengthening of democracy; recalls the importance of a vibrant and robust civil society for the sustainable future of Kazakhstan;
Amendment 117 #
2017/2035(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 33
Paragraph 33
33. VAcknowledges Kazakhstan's geostrategic importance and voices understanding for the country’s multi- vector foreign policy, including building and balancing good neighbourly relations with Russia and China and other partners, including the US and the EU;
Amendment 132 #
2017/2035(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 36
Paragraph 36
36. Welcomes the enhanced chapter on raw materials and energy cooperation, which holds great potential for contributing to EU energy security and looks forward to strengthening dialogue on energy issues;
Amendment 140 #
2017/2035(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 38
Paragraph 38
38. Recalls that the EU is the country’s first trade and investment partner and Kazakhstan is the EU's main trade partner in Central Asia;
Amendment 24 #
2017/2026(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas the integration processes of the EU and ASEAN each follow their own logic and face their own challenges but are, however, comparable, as both organisations have been fostering peaceful co-existence and development of their members for many decadeand have aimed at building trust among their members for many decades in an effort to gradually increase their stature as international players;
Amendment 44 #
2017/2026(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas the EU experience's expertise and experience in regional economic and political integration has in the past served as a source of inspiration for other regional integration processes; whereas the ASEAN countries, however, have been waiting to see whether the EU will be able to overcome its problems and divisions;
Amendment 78 #
2017/2026(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Highlights the political value of strong trade and investment relations between ASEAN and the EU and exhorts both partners to strengthen economic relations; highlights that the EU is the top foreign investor in ASEAN; highlights also the opportunities for cooperation on implementing the SDGs and on addressing global challenges, including climate change, organized crime and terrorism; emphasises the pursuit of a high level of EU-ASEAN cooperation in multilateral institutions such as the UN;
Amendment 25 #
2017/2012(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Asks all institutions and political actors involved in the development of EU external action to prioritise compliance with the Convention on the Rights of the Child, its Protocols and the relevant international treaties in order to guarantee special protection and care for children; also compliance with the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the additional protocol thereto, in order to safeguard the rights of women and girls with disabilities; and asks that the empowerment and human rights of girls be promoted, in the knowledge that empowerment requires the active participation of girls in decision- making processes; underlines that these points should be considered essential elements in the implementation of GAP II;
Amendment 206 #
2017/0293(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 4
Article 1 – paragraph 4
Amendment 374 #
2017/0293(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 4 a (new)
Article 10 – paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. A target which is a reduction specified in Article 1(5)(a) on the average specific emissions of CO2 in 2021 or, where a single application is made in respect of a number of connected undertakings, a reduction specified in Article 1(5)(a) on the average of those undertakings’ average specific emissions of CO2 in 2021.
Amendment 539 #
2017/0293(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex I – part A a (new)
Annex I – part A a (new)
Aa For a manufacturer that has been granted a derogation with regard to a specific emissions target from 2030 onwards, the derogation target shall be calculated as follows: Derogation target from 2030 = WLTPCO2 ・(1-[reduction factor2030]) Where: WLTPCO2: Is the average specific emissions of CO2 in 2021 determined in accordance with Annex XXI to Regulation 2017/1151 without including CO2 saving resulting from the application of Articles 5 and 11 of this Regulation. Reduction factor 2030: Is the reduction specified in Article 1(5)(a).
Amendment 172 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
Article 8 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
All statements of support shall be collected within a period not exceeding 12 months from a date chosen by the group of organisers (the 'collection period'), without prejudice to Article 11(6). That date must be not later than threesix months from the registration of the initiative in accordance with Article 6.
Amendment 182 #
2017/0220(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 12 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2
Article 12 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2
The group of organisers shall submit the statements of support to the competent authorities only where the minimum numbers of signatories laid down in Article 3(1)(a) have been reached by the initiative, having regard to the minimum number laid down in Annex I to the statements of support.
Amendment 4 #
2016/2324(INI)
1. Deplores the fact that in certain states often limit or restrictdeveloping countries the freedom of expression is often limited in order to silence dissent or criticism; recalls that the long-term stability and resilience of a society can only be achieved and maintained by ensuring openness of the civic space and the rights to freedom of expression, opinion, peaceful assembly and association; notes that NGOs representing people with disabilities often face even stronger challenges;
Amendment 16 #
2016/2324(INI)
2. Considers that the EU should use its foreign policy instruments, including human rights and development instruments, to deal with the structural roots of the shrinking space problem and to design a multifaceted approach, since some regimes are now using not only draconian NGO laws but also a wide range of direct and indirect tactics to limit the operation or financing of civil society organisations (CSOs),in developing countries are using restrictions such as arbitrary registration and reporting requirements, distorted criminal charges, raids and audits, and counterterrorism measures;
Amendment 28 #
2016/2324(INI)
3. Calls on the Commission, the European External Action Service (EEAS), the Member States and the EU Special Representative for Human Rights to be more vocal, consistent and timely in expressing objections to restrictive CSO laws and to exert effective and tailored pressure on the host governments in question and raise this issue systematically in political and human rights dialogues; considers that EU actors could exert more positive conditionality by allocating additional funds to those governments allowing a wider space for civil societyraise this issue systematically in political and human rights dialogues;
Amendment 46 #
2016/2324(INI)
5. Requests the establishment of a ‘Shrinking Space Early Warning’' mechanism, with the involvement of the relevant EU institutions, capable of issuing an alert when a given governmentdeveloping country is preparing serious new restrictions against civil society so that the EU is able to respond begin negotiations with the government in question to better understand the problem and to find a solution together with the government in timelier, coordinated and tangible and democratic manner;
Amendment 55 #
2016/2324(INI)
6. Calls on the Commission to increase the European Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights (EIDHR) funds relevant to the shrinking space, since the annual sums per country are at an extremely low level; calls on the Commission to identify new forms of activism to be funded by the EIDHR and to put in place a more flexible and simplified procedure for accessing EIDHR funding, including more significant exceptions for those CSOs in particular danger and support for unregistered groups; considers that greater emphasis should be put on local groups and actors, since human rights issues are often experienced in a more real and acute way at local level;
Amendment 207 #
2016/2314(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 a (new)
Paragraph 17 a (new)
17 a. While commending the establishment of the Inter-Ministerial Coordination Group for Human Rights in May 2016, highlights that strong political will is needed in order for the Group to deliver its mandate; at the same time expresses concern that legislation regarding minorities are not being properly implemented, and not enough resources are dedicated to ensure protection of minorities;
Amendment 209 #
2016/2314(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 b (new)
Paragraph 17 b (new)
17 b. Reiterates the fact that the draft law on freedom of religion needs to be adopted and should include the Venice Commission's recommendations on the matter; expresses concern at the local resistance to the implementation of the ruling on the return of its property to the Kosovo Serbian Orthodox church, and calls on actors to implement the ruling; condemns the fact that explosive materials were placed at the mosque in Drenas/Glogovac, and reiterates the fact that all citizens of Kosovo need to respect the rights of religious groups;
Amendment 178 #
2016/2313(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Calls for boosting efforts to combat radicalisation and further measures to identify, prevent and disrupt the flow of foreign fighters, including by close cooperation with relevant services of the Member States and countries in the region; calls for the introduction of programmes on de-radicalisation and preventing youth radicalisationzation in cooperation with civil society, through comprehensive human rights education to help deconstruct narratives on radicalisation, and encourage youth participation in the democratic political process; further calls for the need to address the different stages of radicalisation and provide tools for reintegration and rehabilitation of individuals back into society;
Amendment 205 #
2016/2313(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Underlines the need for a substantial improvement in the strategic, legal, institutional and policy frameworks on the observance of human rights; calls for the adoption of a countrywide strategy on human rights and non-discrimination and for further measures to ensure the effective implementation of the international human rights instruments BiH has signed and ratified; is concerned about continued discrimination against persons with disabilities in the fields of employment, education and access to health care; calls for the adoption of a single national action plan on the rights of persons with disabilities; calls for developing a comprehensive and integrated approach to the social inclusion of Roma; welcomes the fact that some governments and parliaments have begun discussing LGBTI rights and drawing up specific measures for their protection; welcomes changes to the BiH anti-discrimination law extending the listed grounds for discrimination to age, disability, sexual orientation and gender identity;
Amendment 217 #
2016/2313(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Calls for further efforts to increase the participation of women in political and public life and employment, to improve their socio- economic situation and to strengthen women’s rights on the whole; further urges the government to strengthen the enforcement of laws prohibiting discrimination and combating violence against women so that women can use the protections available to them under the law, in accordance with the international conventions dealing with the prevention of and protection from domestic violence that BiH has signed and ratified;
Amendment 237 #
2016/2313(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Is concerned about cases of political pressure and intimidation against journalists, including physical and verbal attacks, as well as by the lack of transparency in media ownership; calls for steps to ensure that such cases are fully investigated and those responsible brought to justice; calls for further necessary measures to guarantee full respect for freedom of expression, of the press and of access to information both online and offline; emphasises the need to investigate attacks against journalists and ensure proper judicial follow-up; calls on the competent authorities to ensure the independence and financial stability of the three public service broadcasters as well as the political, operational and financial independence of the Communications Regulatory Authority; calls for the digital switchover to be finalised and for a broadband strategy to be drawn up;
Amendment 251 #
2016/2313(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Remains concerned by the continued fragmentation, inefficiency and complexity of the education system; calls for countrywide common core curricula, inclusive and non- discriminatory common core curricula that promotes tolerance and intercultural understanding among the different ethnic groups and better coordination between the different levels of education governance; continues to be concerned about the persistently high school-drop-out rates of Roma pupils; regrets the slow progress in addressing and resolving the issue of ‘two schools under one roof’ and other forms of segregation and discrimination in schools;
Amendment 166 #
2016/2312(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Commends religious tolerance and good cooperation among religious communities; encourages the competent authorities and religious communities to cooperate in preserving and fostering religious harmony; considers it essential to prevent Islamic radicalisation, including through disengagement and reintegration of returning foreign fighters, to counter violent extremism in cooperation with CSOs and religious communities, and to intensify regional and international cooperation in this area; stresses the crucial importance of special education programmes in the process of prevention of radicalisation as well as in providing tools for reintegration and rehabilitation of individuals back into society;
Amendment 187 #
2016/2312(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Calls for the process of property registration, restitution and compensation to be completed, and for the 2012-2020 strategy on property rights to be implemented effectively; further urges the authorities to develop a road map with clear responsibilities and deadlines in this regard and to conduct a public information campaign in order to inform former owners about their rights and duties concerning property restitution;
Amendment 193 #
2016/2312(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)
Paragraph 16 a (new)
16 a. Stresses the importance of research in the process of revealing crimes committed by the former communist regime and stresses the moral, political and legal responsibility of state institutions in this process; calls on the authorities to elaborate adequate legislative measures to help the rehabilitation of victims, including the compensation of individuals and their families and to revoke all politically- motivated court decisions that are still in force; urges state institutions to investigate and bring to justice perpetrators who committed crimes against humanity during the communist dictatorship;
Amendment 14 #
2016/2311(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 16 a (new)
Citation 16 a (new)
- having regards to the address of ICTY President Carmel Agius to the United Nations Security Council in June 2016,
Amendment 15 #
2016/2311(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 16 b (new)
Citation 16 b (new)
- having regards to the Agreement on Normalization of Relations between the then-Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, consisting of Serbia and Montenegro, and the Republic of Croatia, signed in 1996,
Amendment 16 #
2016/2311(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 16 c (new)
Citation 16 c (new)
- having regard to the European Parliament's resolution on Serbia: the case of accused war criminal Šešelj of 27 November 2014,
Amendment 31 #
2016/2311(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C b (new)
Recital C b (new)
C b. whereas the implementation of the legal framework on the protection of minorities needs to be fully ensured, notably in the areas of education, use of language, access to media and religious services in minority language, and adequate political representation of national minorities at local, regional and national levels;
Amendment 33 #
2016/2311(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C d (new)
Recital C d (new)
C d. whereas since January 2016 Serbia refuses to extradite three wanted Serbian Radical Party members to the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY) for trial on witness intimidation charges;
Amendment 34 #
2016/2311(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C e (new)
Recital C e (new)
C e. whereas the ICTY President Carmel Agius stressed that Serbia is violating cooperation agreements and undermining justice efforts by not arresting three Serbian Radical Party members accused of interfering with witnesses and expressed the view that this development is a grave step backwards in matters of cooperation with the Tribunal and an unacceptable disregard of the primacy of Tribunal law over the domestic law;
Amendment 43 #
2016/2311(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the opening of negotiations on Chapters 23 (Judiciary and Fundamental Rights) and 24 (Justice, Freedom and Security) as the key chapters in the EU approach to enlargement based on the rule of law; welcomes the opening of Chapters 32 (Financial Control) and 35 (Other Issues), the opening of negotiations on Chapter 5 (Public Procurement) and the opening and provisional closure of Chapter 25 (Science and Research); calls on the Council to open Chapter 26 (Education and Culture) and all other negotiating chapters which have been technically prepared;
Amendment 53 #
2016/2311(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Welcomes the continued engagement of Serbia on the path of integration into the EU and its constructive and well-prepared approach to the negotiations, which is a clear sign of determination and political will; calls on Serbia to actively promote this strategic decision among the Serbian population; calls on the European Commission and the Serbian government to take coordinated steps in order to intensify visibility of investments and funding from the EU budget so that increase the awareness of citizens of the EU funds directed to Serbia;
Amendment 68 #
2016/2311(INI)
3. Underlines that the thorough implementation of reforms and policies remains a key indicator of a successful integration process; commends the adoption of Revised National Programme for the Adoption of Aquis (NPAA); calls on Serbia to improve the planning, coordination and monitoring of the implementation of new legislation and policies;
Amendment 78 #
2016/2311(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Welcomes the progress made by Serbia in developing a functioning market economy and the improvement of the overall economic situation in the country; stresses that Serbia has made good progress in addressing some of its policy weaknesses, in particular with regard to the budget deficit; highlights that growth prospects have improved and domestic and external imbalances have been reduced; underlinin view of harmonization with aquis communautaire welcomes that the restructuring of publicly owned enterprises has advanced; notes the paramount importance of smal, particularly in the field of energy and railway transportation and underlines the importance of their professional mand medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to Serbia'sagement in order to make them more effective, competitive and economyic;
Amendment 82 #
2016/2311(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4 a. Underlines the paramount role of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) for Serbia's economy; calls the Serbian government and the EU institutions to expand their funding opportunities for SMEs, especially in the field of IT and digital economy; commends its efforts concerning dual and vocational education in order to address youth unemployment and encourages it to promote entrepreneurship, particularly among young people;
Amendment 110 #
2016/2311(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Calls on Serbia to progressively align its foreign and security policy with that of the EU, including its policy on Russia; welcomes Serbia’s important contribution to and continued participation in international peacekeeping operations;
Amendment 156 #
2016/2311(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Welcomes Serbia's active role in police and judicial cooperation on international and regional level and the progress made in the fight against organised crime and the adoption of Serbia’s first national serious and organise crime threat assessment (SOCTA); calls on Serbia to step up efforts to investigate wider criminal networks, improve financial investigations and intelligence-led policing and develop a solid track record of final convictions; has taken note of the controversial events in Belgrade’s Savamala district and calls for their swift resolution;
Amendment 159 #
2016/2311(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10 a. Notes that the application of the Law on Organization and Competences of State Authorities in War Crimes Proceedings violates the generally accepted principles of criminal and international law - the principle of legal certainty and the principle of non- intervention in the internal affairs of other states, and hinders the process of reconciliation in South Eastern Europe; calls on the Serbian authorities to immediately repeal the relevant articles and abandon a concept of quasi-universal jurisdiction for war crimes in neighbouring countries; in this regards, calls on the European Commission and Member States to invest additional efforts in addressing this issue in the process of EU-Serbia negotiations, particularly within the scope of Chapter 23;
Amendment 184 #
2016/2311(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Reiterates the importance of all independent regulatory bodies, including the Ombudsman, in ensuring oversight and accountability of the executive; calls on the authorities to provide the Ombudsmanindependent regulatory bodies with full political and administrative support for histheir work;
Amendment 231 #
2016/2311(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. WUnderlines the importance of consistent legal framework on the rights of national minorities and the clarification of legal status and jurisdiction of national minority councils, hence commends the progress made in the drafting of the Law on rights and freedoms of national minorities and that a working group was appointed to draft the amendments of the Law on national councils of national minorities; welcomes the adoption of an action plan for the realisation of the rights of national minorities, and the adoption of a decree establishing a fund for national minorities; calls for the full and timely implementation of the action plan; reiterates its call on Serbia to ensure consistent and effective implementation of legislation on protection of minorities, including in relation to education, use of languages, adequate representation in judiciary and public administration and access to media and religious services in minority languages; calls for the swift implementation of the new Law on police which enables a recruitment of citizens with dual- citizenship as a police officers, thus contributing to adequate representation of national minorities as well;
Amendment 239 #
2016/2311(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 a (new)
Paragraph 17 a (new)
17 a. Welcomes the adoption of new educational standards for the subject Serbian as non-mother tongue and calls the authorities to swiftly adopt a new curriculum accordingly, thus enabling national minorities to acquire the language of majority on the appropriate level helping their inclusion and participation in the Serbian society and public life;
Amendment 255 #
2016/2311(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 a (new)
Paragraph 19 a (new)
19 a. Stresses that the progress in the field of ensuring rights of national minorities is not satisfactory and reiterates that the promotion and protection of human rights, including rights of national minorities is the basic precondition for joining the EU;
Amendment 267 #
2016/2311(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Welcomes the fact that Serbia remains constructively committed to bilateral relations with other enlargement countries and neighbouring EU Member States; has taken positive note of the fact that Serbia has shown an increasingly constructive engagement in regional cooperation initiatives such as the South- East Europe Cooperation Process, the Regional Cooperation Council, the Central European Free Trade Agreement, the Adriatic-Ionian Initiative, the Brdo process, the Western Balkan Six initiative and its connectivity agenda and the Berlin process; calls on Serbia to implement the connectivity reform measures associated with the connectivity agenda; commends the role of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia in promoting regional cooperation by taking a lead in setting up and developing the Western Balkan Chamber Investment Forum which plays important role in the framework of the Berlin Process and calls upon the Commission and other regional organizations to support the efforts of the Forum and facilitate its capacity building; underlines that outstanding bilateral disputes should not have a detrimental effect on the accession process; welcomes the adoption of a national strategy for the investigation and prosecution of war crimes; notes that the mandate of the former War Crimes Prosecutor expired in December 2015; stresses that the appointment of his successor is a matter of serious concern; calls for the implementation of this strategy and the adoption of an operational prosecutorial strategy; calls for full cooperation with the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY); urges the authorities to continue working on the issue of the fate of missing persons;
Amendment 276 #
2016/2311(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 a (new)
Paragraph 20 a (new)
20 a. Reiterates its call on the authorities to continue their efforts to eliminate the legacy of the former Communist secret services by making its files open to the public, as a step towards the democratisation of Serbia; calls on Serbia to intensify the process of succession and implementation of obligations relating to the division of the common archive of the former Yugoslavia; reiterates, in this connection, that full access to all archival materials, especially those of the former Yugoslav Secret Services (UDBA) and the Yugoslav People's Army Security Service (KOS) is of vital significance; reiterates its call to the authorities to facilitate access to those archives that concern the former republics of Yugoslavia and to return them to their respective governments if they so request;
Amendment 304 #
2016/2311(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Welcomes Serbia’s continued engagement in the normalisation process with Kosovo, and its commitment to the implementation of the agreements reached in the EU- facilitated dialogue; reiterates its call to move forward with the full implementation, in good faith and in a timely manner, of all the agreements already reached and to determinedly continue the normalisation process; urges the establishment of the Community of Serbian Municipalities; encourages Serbia and Kosovo to identify new areas of discussion for the dialogue, with the aim of improving the lives of people and comprehensively normalising relations; reiterates its call on the EEAS to carry out an evaluation of the performance of the sides in fulfilling their obligations;
Amendment 310 #
2016/2311(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 a (new)
Paragraph 22 a (new)
22 a. calls on Serbia to intensify efforts in implementing all bilateral agreements with neighbouring countries, including the Agreement on Normalization of Relations between the then-Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, consisting of Serbia and Montenegro, and the Republic of Croatia, signed in 1996;
Amendment 320 #
2016/2311(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Calls on Serbia to fully implement the connectivity reform measures in the energy sector; encourages Serbia to develop competition in the gas market and to take measures to improve alignment with the acquis in the fields of energy efficiency and renewable energy, and calls on Serbia to focus more strongly on green energy and to decrease the country's dependency on energy imports;
Amendment 41 #
2016/2310(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas a serious commitment by all political forces is required for the country to return tocontinue its EU integration pathrocess; whereas a new government needs to adopt and implement robust reforms;
Amendment 74 #
2016/2310(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the respect for fundamental freedoms shown at the elections of 11 December 2016; urges all political parties to accept its resultat the early elections of 11 December 2016 were held in a transparent and inclusive manner and that its results were accepted by all political parties, which is in the interest of domestic stability and underlines their responsibility to ensure that there is no backsliding into political crisis; calls for a swift formation of a new government in order to make use of the mandate to carry on with necessary reforms; considers cross- party cooperation essential for addressing pressing domestic and EU-related challenges;
Amendment 91 #
2016/2310(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Notes that the electoral process has improved, including the legal framework, voters’ lists and the media environment; hopes that the alleged irregularities and shortcomings, including voter intimidation, vote buying, abuse of public resources, will also be addressed effectively by the competent authorities in view of the local elections in May 2017; stresses the need for a de-politicisation of the electoral administration in order to increase the public’s trust in future elections;
Amendment 106 #
2016/2310(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Urges once again that the political will be shown to fusubstantially implement the Urgent Reform Priorities and the Przhino Agreement; calls on the Commission to assess, at its earliest convenience but before the end of 2017, the country’s progress on implementation and to report back to Parliament; while recalling that long overdue reforms need to be launched and implemented, supports the continuation of the High Level Accession Dialogue (HLAD) for systematically assisting the country in this endeavour; draws attention to the potential negative consequences of further delays in the country’s accession process;
Amendment 114 #
2016/2310(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Underlines the strategic importance of supporting further progress in the process of EU integration and urges once again that the political will be shown to fully implement the Urgent Reform Priorities and the Przhino Agreement; calls on the Commission to assess, at its earliest convenience but before the end of 2017, the country’s progress on implementation and to report back to Parliament; while recalling that long overdue reforms need to be launched and implemented, supports the continuation of the High Level Accession Dialogue (HLAD) for systematically assisting the country in this endeavour; draws attention to the potential negative consequences of further delays in the country’s accession process;
Amendment 117 #
2016/2310(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4 a. Takes note of the recommendation by the Commission to open accession negotiations with Macedonia and calls on the Council to address the issue at the earliest convenience after the early parliamentary elections have been held;
Amendment 118 #
2016/2310(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 b (new)
Paragraph 4 b (new)
4 b. Underlines the significant progress country has made in the process of EU integration and emphasizes the negative consequences of further delaying the process of integration, including the threat to the credibility of the EU enlargement policy and the risk of instability in the region;
Amendment 119 #
2016/2310(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 c (new)
Paragraph 4 c (new)
4 c. Points out that the current challenges the European Union is facing (BREXIT, migration, radicalism, etc.) should not hinder the enlargement process, rather these challenges have demonstrated the necessity to fully integrate the Western Balkans into EU structures in order to enhance and deepen partnership to overcome international crises;
Amendment 120 #
2016/2310(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 d (new)
Paragraph 4 d (new)
4 d. Welcomes the high level of legislative alignment with the acquis communautaire and acknowledges the priority given to the effective implementation and enforcement of existing legal and policy frameworks, as in the case of countries already engaged in the accession negotiations;
Amendment 121 #
2016/2310(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 e (new)
Paragraph 4 e (new)
4 e. Congratulates Macedonia for its continuous fulfilment of its commitments under the Stabilization and Association Agreement (SAA); calls on the Council to adopt the Commission's 2009 proposal to move to the second stage of the SAA, in line with the relevant provisions;
Amendment 134 #
2016/2310(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Notes some progress in reforming public administration including the steps to implement the new legal framework on human resources management; remains concerned about the alleged politicisation of public administration and that civil servants are allegedly subject to political pressure; urges the new government to enhance professionalism, neutrality and independence at all levels; stresses the need to complete the 2017- 2022 public administration reform strategy, including by making sufficient budget allocations for its implementation, and to strengthen relevant administrative capacity;
Amendment 145 #
2016/2310(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Notes that the Special Prosecutor has raised the first criminal indictments concerning wrongdoings arising from the wiretaps; is concerned about attacks and obstruction against her work and the lack of cooperation from other institutions; considers it essential for the democratic process to enable the Special Prosecutor’s Office to carry out thorough investigafulfill all its functions in full autonomy;
Amendment 172 #
2016/2310(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Appreciates the continued efforts to fight Islamic radicalisation; welcomes the adoption of the 2013-2019 strategy to fight terrorism, which also defines the concepts of violent extremism, radicalisation, prevention and reintegration; calls for more cooperation between security agencies and civil society organisations (CSOs) and local communities in addressing the different stages of radicalisation and in elaborating tools for reintegration and rehabilitation; further calls for continued monitoring of returning foreign fighters by security services;
Amendment 188 #
2016/2310(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Welcomes the adoption of the national strategy for equality and non- discrimination 2016-2020; is concerned about impartiality and the independence of the Commission for Protection from Discrimination; reiterates its condemnation of hate speech against discriminated groups; is concerned that intolerance against lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) people persists; reiterates its call for the Anti- Discrimination Law to be aligned with the acquis as regards discrimination on grounds of sexual orientation; underlines again the need to combat discrimination against the Roma, and to facilitate their integration and their access to the education system and the labour market; is concerned about the inhumane physical conditions in prisons, despite a significant increase in the prison budget;
Amendment 201 #
2016/2310(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Is concerned about the lack of implementation of the Law on Equal Opportunities and the limited effectiveness of institutional mechanisms to advance gender equality; urges the competent authorities to make sufficient budget allocations for its implementation and to improve support services to victims offurther strengthen efforts to increase the participation of women in the political and public sectors, in particular in decision-making positions; furthermore, urges to improve support services to victims of domestic violence, including to provide an adequate number of shelters; furthermore, urges to ensure that cases of domestic violence are thoroughly investigated and perpetrators prosecuted and to continue carrying out awareness- raising campaigns to sensitize the population on the prevention and protection against domestic violence;
Amendment 267 #
2016/2310(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Urges the authorities to strengthen the administrative and financing capacities in order to procure and implement EU funds properly and in a timely manner; notes with concern that the Commission has yet again reduced the IPA financial assistance by approximately EUR 27 million as a consequence of lack of political commitment to deliver on reforms in public financial management;
Amendment 282 #
2016/2310(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Commends the country for constructive cooperation and tremendous efforts in addressing the migration crisis; recommends further actions to ensure capacities to combat human trafficking and migrant smuggling;
Amendment 284 #
2016/2310(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 a (new)
Paragraph 21 a (new)
21 a. Emphasizes the importance of regional cooperation as a tool to drive the process of EU integration forward and commends country's constructive efforts and proactive contributions in promoting bilateral relations with all countries from the region;
Amendment 293 #
2016/2310(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Welcomes Macedonia’s continued constructive role in regional and international cooperation; commends the increased alignment with EU foreign policy (73 %); reiterates the importance of finalising the negotiations on a bilateral treaty withcommends also the positive focus on bilateral projects in areas of infrastructure, economy and interconnectivity and country's efforts to hold European standards and values at the heart of bilateral relations; encourages the continuation and finalization of the talks on the Treaty of Friendship, Good-Neighbourliness and Cooperation; emphasizes the necessity to respect the history, sovereignty and national and linguistic identity of both Macedonia and Bulgaria;
Amendment 314 #
2016/2310(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 a (new)
Paragraph 23 a (new)
23 a. Welcomes the efforts of the Berlin Process, which demonstrated strong political support for the European perspective of the Western Balkans and that will continue to encourage further reforms in key areas and promote economic developments through core connectivity investments, providing concrete results for the citizens and the entire region; welcomes the establishment of the RYCO (Regional Youth Cooperation Office) and the Western Balkans Fund and requests the EU to take into account the initiatives and projects which have been proposed by Macedonia;
Amendment 318 #
2016/2310(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 b (new)
Paragraph 23 b (new)
23 b. Commends the country on its chairmanship of the CEI, focusing on economic cooperation and business opportunities, infrastructure and general economic development, including rural development and tourism, as well as on bridging macro-regions throughout 2015;
Amendment 11 #
2016/2309(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas further progress has been made in the accession negotiations; whereas Montenegro is currently considered to be the most advanced in its accession process; whereas the legal framework in the area of the rule of law is largely complete and the institutional set- up is in place;
Amendment 37 #
2016/2309(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Welcomes the continued steady progress in the accession negotiations, noting that so far 26 chapters have been opened for negotiations and 2 chapters have been provisionally closed; encourages Montenegro to work on meeting all benchmarks and to continue focusing on the fundamentals of the accession process; recalls that it is essential to deliver concrete results with a strong implementation record; looks forward to opening and closing further chapters in the accession negotiations in 2017;
Amendment 39 #
2016/2309(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Commends the competent authorities for holding free and fair parliamentary elections on 16 October 2016 in an orderly manner in which fundamental freedoms were generally respected; welcomes the revised legal framework under which the elections took place, but notes the persistence of some administrative deficiencies, including on the part of the State Election Commission (SEC), as well as concerns about the accuracy of the electoral register and politicisation; expects that the alleged procedural irregularities, including alleged abuses of state funds and abuse of office, and an and which overall allowed the election preparations to be conducted in a more participatory and transparent manner; calls on Montenegro's authorities to address shortcomings reported by other reported shortcomings, will be investigated fully and addressed effectively by the competent autho international observers and to investigate alleged irregularities; notes with regret that part of the opposition has not recognised the results of the elections; recognises the attempts by external actors to discredit the electoral process and the difficulties this has caused;
Amendment 124 #
2016/2309(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Notes some progress in improving the situation of minorities by completing several legislative reforms to further align with the EU and international human rights standards and ensure that adequate mechanisms are in place to protect vulnerable groups from discrimination; welcomes the adoption of a 2016-2020 strategy and action plan for the social inclusion of Roma and Egyptians; calls for an appropriate budget to be allocated so that the action plan may be implemented properly; encourages the competent authorities to continue to strengthen efforts to safeguard the rights of LGBTI people, notwithstanding the difficulties in acceptance of sexual diversity within Montenegrin society; remains concerned that most public buildings, including medical centres and university faculties, are still not accessible to people with disabilities;
Amendment 143 #
2016/2309(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Remains concerned about the state of media freedom in Montenegro; urges again the competent authorities to resolve the long-pending cases of violence against, intimidation of and threats made to journalists, to take measures to protect media professionals and to create a safe environment for free journalism; insists on transparent state advertising in private media, on the amendment of the Montenegrin criminal code and on the introduction of new criminal offenses aimed at preventing and punishing attacks on journalists discharging their professional duties; acknowledges the legal measures taken to provide greater financial independence and sustainability for the public service broadcaster RTCG, and calls for further steps to ensure its independence, including editorial independence; stresses that the revised Code of Ethics for Journalists must be effectively and uniformly applied across the media community;
Amendment 191 #
2016/2309(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Welcomes Montenegro’s proactive participation and continued constructive role in regional and international cooperation; and in good neighborly relations; strongly commends Montenegro for continuing fully to align its foreign policy with the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy; encourages it to continue to address, in a constructive and neighbourly spirit, outstanding bilateral issues with its neighbours, including the unresolved border demarcation issues with Serbia and Croatia;
Amendment 108 #
2016/2308(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
Amendment 242 #
2016/2308(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Believes that strengthening trade relations could bring concrete benefits to citizens in Turkey and the EU, and therefore supports the Commission’s proposal to start negotiations on the upgrading of the Customs Union; reiterates that the EU is Turkey’s main trading partner and that two thirds of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in Turkey comes from EU Member States; considers the involvement of social partners in negotiations as crucial; calls on the Commission to include political benchmarks on human rights and fundamental freedoms in the upgraded Customs Union;
Amendment 281 #
2016/2308(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Calls on the Commission to take into account the latest developments in Turkey when conducting the mid-term review of the Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance (IPA) funds in 2017, and to suspend all pre-accession funds if Turkey no longer sufficiently complies with the EU’s Copenhagen criteria; calls on the Commission to use those funds to support Turkish civil society and to invest more in people-to-people exchange programmes, such as Erasmus+ for students;
Amendment 48 #
2016/2301(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Calls on the Commission to swiftly submit a legislative proposal with the aim of setting up accessible and comprehensive labelling measures in order to guarantee enhanced consumer information on the content and origin of products sold on the EU market throughout their supply chain;
Amendment 1 #
2016/2239(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 3 a (new)
Citation 3 a (new)
– having regard to Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, to Article 18 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the Declaration on the Elimination of All Forms of Intolerance and of Discrimination Based on Religion or Belief and the EU Guidelines on the promotion and protection of freedom of religion or belief;
Amendment 161 #
2016/2239(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Reaffirms, in this context, its strong condemnation of the heinous crimes and human rights violations committed by ‘'ISIS/Daesh’' in Syria and Iraq, including killings, torture, rape, sexual slavery, forced religious conversions and the systematic murder of religious minoritieattacks against and murder of religious and ethnic minorities, especially of Christians; reiterates that under international law each individual has the right to live according to his or her conscience and to freely hold and change religious and non-religious beliefs; believes that the prosecution of the perpetrators should be a priority for the international community;
Amendment 182 #
2016/2239(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 a (new)
Paragraph 21 a (new)
21a. Urges all the countries of the international community, including the EU Members States, to work actively on preventing and fighting radicalisation and to improve their legal and jurisdictional systems in order to avoid their nationals and citizens joining 'ISIS/Daesh';
Amendment 478 #
2016/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28 b (new)
Paragraph 28 b (new)
28b. Recognises the successful conclusion of the free and open general elections in Taiwan in January 2016, fully expressing their people's support for democracy, rule of law and respect for human rights; acknowledges the continued good will and flexibility shown by the government of Taiwan in maintaining cross-Strait peace and stability, which will be significantly conducive to regional security; recognizes the EU commitment to continuing to develop its relations with Taiwan, to supporting the shared values underpinning its system of governance, to supporting the constructive development of cross-Strait relations, and also to supporting Taiwan's meaningful participation in international organizations, such as WHO, ICAO, UNFCCC, and INTERPOL in particular, which is of such paramount importance to preventing and combating cross-border crime and terrorism that all members of the world community should be included therein;
Amendment 28 #
2016/2009(INI)
Considers that a genuine reform of the European Citizens’ Initiative and effective operation of the institution could do much to improve the Union’s image;
Amendment 57 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Stresses the importance of protection by the European Union and the Member States of indigenous ethnic, national, linguistic and religious communities and endangered languages;
Amendment 65 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Deplores instances of discrimination against indigenous and other minorities, immigrants and asylum seekers, as well as restrictions on the freedom of the media regularly reflected in petitions; calls on the Member States to pay particular attention to these issues; welcomes the unblocking of the anti- discrimination directive in the European Council;
Amendment 70 #
2016/2009(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Calls on the Member States to guarantee the fundamental rights of citizens from non-EU countries, particularly asylum seekers, living in an EU country as laid down in the Charter of Fundamental Rights, while stressing that such guarantees must not jeopardise the properly understood interests and security of citizens of the European Union ;
Amendment 29 #
2016/0284(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) The development of digital technologies and internet has transformed the distribution of and access to television and radio programmes. Users increasingly expect to have access to television and radio programmes both live and on- demand, using traditional channels such as satellite or cable and also through online services. Broadcasting organisations are therefore increasingly offering, in addition to their own broadcasts of television and radio programmes, online services ancillary to their broadcast, such as simulcasting and catch-up services. Retransmission services operators, which aggregate broadcasts of television and radio programmes into packages and provide them to users simultaneously to the initial transmission of the broadcast, unaltered and unabridged, use various techniques of retransmission such as cable, satellite, digital terrestrial, closed circuit IP-based or mobile networks as well as the open internet. On the part of users, there is a growing demand and need for access to broadcasts of television and radio programmes, including catch-up services, not only originating in their Member State but also in other Member States of the Union, includingespecially from members of linguistic minorities of the Union as well as from, persons who live in another Member State than their Member State of origin as well as persons who study other languages than their mother tongue.
Amendment 40 #
2016/0284(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) A number of barriers hinder the provision of online services which are ancillary to broadcasts and the provision of retransmission services and thereby the free circulation of television and radio programmes within the Union. Broadcasting organisations transmit daily many hours of news, cultural, political, documentary or entertainment programmes. These programmes incorporate a variety of content such as audiovisual, musical, literary or graphic works, which is protected by copyright and/or related rights under Union law. That results in a complex process to clear rights from a multitude of right holders and for different categories of works and other protected subject matter. Often the rights need to be cleared in a short time-frame, in particular when preparing programmes such as news or current affairs. In order to make their online services available across borders, broadcasting organisations need to have the required rights to works and other protected subject matter for all the relevant territories which further increases the complexity of the rights' clearance.
Amendment 61 #
2016/0284(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) Council Directive 93/83/EEC17 facilitates cross-border satellite broadcasting and retransmission by cable of television and radio programmes from other Member States of the Union. However, the provisions of that Directive on transmissions of broadcasting organisations are limited to satellite transmissions and therefore do not apply to online services ancillary to broadcast while the provisions concerning retransmissions of television and radio programmes from other Member States are limited to simultaneous, unaltered and unabridged retransmission by cable or microwave systems and do not extend to such retransmissions by means of other technologies. _________________ 17 Council Directive 93/83/EEC of 27 September 1993 on the coordination of certain rules concerning copyright and rights related to copyright applicable to satellite broadcasting and cable retransmission OJ L 248, 6.10.1993, p. 15– 21.
Amendment 70 #
2016/0284(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) Therefore, cross-border provision of online services ancillary tof broadcasters and retransmissions of television and radio programmes originating in other Member States should be facilitated by adapting the legal framework on the exercise of copyright and related rights relevant for those activities.
Amendment 78 #
2016/0284(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) The ancillary online services covered by this Regulation are those services offered by broadcasting organisations which have a clear and subordinate relationship to the broadcast. They include services giving access to television and radio programmes in a linear manner simultaneously to the broadcast and services giving access, within a defined time period after the broadcast, to television and radio programmes which have been previously broadcast by the broadcasting organisation (so-called catch- up services). In addition, ancillary online services include services which give access to material which enriches or otherwise expands television and radio programmes broadcast by the broadcasting organisation, including by way of previewing, extending, supplementing or reviewing the relevant programme's content. The provision of access to individual works or other protected subject matter that have been incorporated in a television or radio programme should not be regarded as an ancillary online service. Similarly, the provision of access to works or other protected subject matter independently of broadcast, such as services giving access to individual musical or audiovisual works, music albums or videos, do not fall under the definition of ancillary online service.
Amendment 164 #
2016/0284(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 15
Recital 15
(15) In order to prevent circumvention of the application of the country of origin principle through the extension of the duration of existing agreements concerning the exercise of copyright and related rights relevant for the provision of an ancillary online service as well as the access to or the use of an ancillary online service, it is necessary to apply the principle of country of origin also to existing agreements but with a transitional period.
Amendment 203 #
2016/0284(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point a
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point a
(a) "ancillary online service" means an online service consisting in the provision to the public, by or under the control and responsibility of a broadcasting organisation, of linear and non-linear radio or television programmes before, simultaneously with or for a defined period of time after their broadcast by the broadcasting organisation as well as of any material produced by or for the broadcasting organisation which is ancillary to such broadcast;
Amendment 236 #
2016/0284(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – title
Article 2 – title
Application of the principle of ‘country of origin’ to ancillary online services
Amendment 247 #
2016/0284(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1
Article 2 – paragraph 1
(1) The acts of communication to the public and of making available occurring when providing an ancillary online service by or under the control and responsibility of a broadcasting organisation as well as the acts of reproduction which are necessary for the provision of, the access to or the use of the ancillary online service shall, for the purposes of exercising copyright and related rights relevant for these acts, be deemed to occur solely in the Member State in which the broadcasting organisation has its principal establishment.
Amendment 272 #
2016/0284(COD)
Exercise of the rights in retransmission and in re-use of broadcasting organisations' on-demand services by right holders other than broadcasting organisations
Amendment 300 #
2016/0284(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 5 a (new)
Article 3 – paragraph 5 a (new)
(5 a) The principles of paragraphs 1 to 5 shall apply also to the integral re-use of the broadcasting organisation’s on- demand services by a party other than the broadcasting organisation under whose control and responsibility such services were primarily made available.
Amendment 281 #
2016/0152(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 3
Article 1 – paragraph 3
3. This Regulation does not apply to the activities referred to in Article 2(2) of Directive 2006/123/EC with the exception of point (g) in Article 2(2) of Directive 2006/123/EC.
Amendment 362 #
2016/0152(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point b a (new)
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – point b a (new)
(ba) receive electronically supplied services, the main feature of which is the provision of access to and use of copyright-protected works or other protected subject matter, in respect of which the trader has the requisite rights for the territory from which the consumer seeks to receive such services;
Amendment 16 #
2016/0070(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Citation 1
Citation 1
Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Articles 53(1)4, 56 and 62 thereof,
Amendment 18 #
2016/0070(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) The free movement of workers, freedom of establishment and freedom to provide services are fundamental principles of the internal market in the Union enshrined in the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU). The implementation of those principles is further developed by the Union aimed at guaranteeing a level playing field for businesses and respect for the rights of workersfighting unfair competition while ensuring the respect for the rights of workers. Neither the difference in wages or salaries nor the access to capital alone can be considered as unfair competition.
Amendment 21 #
2016/0070(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) The freedom to provide services includes the right of undertakings to provide services in another Member State, to which they may post their own workers temporarily in order to provide those services there. The temporary nature of providing services is to be determined on a case by case basis by the duration, the regularity, the periodicity and the continuity of the service.
Amendment 26 #
2016/0070(COD)
Draft legislative resolution
Citation 2
Citation 2
– having regard to Article 294(2) and Articles 53(1)4, 56 and 62 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, pursuant to which the Commission submitted the proposal to Parliament (C8- 0114-2016),
Amendment 26 #
2016/0070(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 4
Recital 4
Amendment 30 #
2016/0070(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) The principle of equal treatment and the prohibition of any discrimination based on nationality are enshrined in EU law since the founding Treaties. The principle of equal pay has been implemented through secondary law not only between women and men, but also between employees with fix term contracts and comparable permanent workers, between part-time and full-time workers or between temporary agency workers and comparable workers of the user undertaking. While applying these principles the related case-law of the Court of Justice of the European Union must be respected and taken into consideration.
Amendment 31 #
2016/0070(COD)
(5a) It is also necessary to take account of the reasoned opinions issued by the national parliaments of 11 Member States objecting the Commission's proposal based on the ground of the principle of subsidiarity,
Amendment 35 #
2016/0070(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 8
Recital 8
Amendment 44 #
2016/0070(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Citation 4 a (new)
Citation 4 a (new)
Having regard to the reasoned opinions issued by national parliaments from 11 Member States objecting the Commission proposal on the grounds of subsidiarity;
Amendment 44 #
2016/0070(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 10
Recital 10
Amendment 47 #
2016/0070(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) The free movement of workers, freedom of establishment and freedom to provide services are fundamental principles of the internal market in the Union enshrined in the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU). The implementation of those principles is further developed by the Union aimed at enhancing social cohesion among Member States and guaranteeing a level playing field for businesses and respect for the rights of workers. Neither wages or salaries nor the access to capital alone can be considered as unfair competition.
Amendment 47 #
2016/0070(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 11
Recital 11
(11) In a competitive internal market, service providers compete not only on the basis of a labour costs but also on factors such as productivity and efficiency, orand wages are always based on a series of parameters, including experience, profile, level of responsibilities, labour market conditions or on the quality and innovation of their goods and services.
Amendment 49 #
2016/0070(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 12
Recital 12
(12) It is within Member States' competence to set rules on remunerationminimum rates of pay, bonuses and allowances in accordance with their law and practicenational law. However, national rules on remuneration applied to posted workers must be proportionate and justified by the need to protect posted workers and must not disproportionately restrict the cross-border provision of services. Hence the Member States should ensure that workers posted to their territory are entitled to minimum rates of pay as well as specific categories of bonuses and allowances as specified in point (c) of Article 3(1).
Amendment 57 #
2016/0070(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 13
Recital 13
(13) The elements of remuneration under national law or universally applicable collective agreementsminimum rate of pay, bonuses and other allowances under national law should be clear and transparent to all service providers. It is therefore justified to impose on Member States the obligation to publish the constituent elements of remunerationminimum rates of pay, bonuses and other allowances on the single website provided for by Article 5 of the Enforcement Directive.
Amendment 58 #
2016/0070(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 1 a (new)
Recital 1 a (new)
(1a) When calculating the duration of posting, the same posting within the same contract concluded by the undertaking referred to in Article 1 (1) should be identified as posting.
Amendment 60 #
2016/0070(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 1 b (new)
Recital 1 b (new)
(1b) When assessing working place for the purpose of calculating the duration of posting in the context of replacement, the working place should be viewed as the very same working place where the worker is posted to the same working position to perform the same task(s).
Amendment 62 #
2016/0070(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 14
Recital 14
(14) Laws, reguVia their national legislations, administrative provisions or collective agreements applicable in Member States may ensure that subcontracting does not confer on undertakings the possibilMember States have the freedom to establish on their territory appropriate measures applicable to local and foreign service providers in order to ensure compliance wityh to avoid rules guaranteeing certain terms and conditions of employment covering remuneration. Where such rules on remunerationhe applicable rules concerning posting in case of subcontracting chains. Where such rules on pays, bonuses and allowances exist at national level, the Member State may apply them in a non- discriminatory manner to undertakings posting workers to its territory provided that they do not disproportionately restrict the cross-border provision of services.
Amendment 64 #
2016/0070(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) The freedom to provide services includes the right of undertakings to provide services in another Member State, to which they may post their own workers temporarily in order to provide those services there and the difference of wages has never been considered as "unfair competition" in the EU and in the case law of the ECJ. The Treaty provides that restrictions on the freedom to provide services are prohibited.
Amendment 70 #
2016/0070(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Directive 96/71/EC
Article 2 a
Article 2 a
Amendment 72 #
2016/0070(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) Almost twenty years after its adoption, it is necessary to assess whetherindeed enforce the rules and confirm that the Posting of Workers Directive still strikes the right balance between the need to promote the freedom to provide services and the need to protect the rights of posted workers, as well as the to explore that whether there is a possibility of reintroduction of custom duties for a temporarily but limited period in some regions or areas suffering high unemployment level based on public interest in terms of the social protection of workers due to unfair competitiveness of imported products and services, which were previously produced or provided locally within the framework of the revision of the current legislation relevant to posted workers.
Amendment 90 #
2016/0070(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) The principle of equal treatment and the prohibition of any discrimination based on nationality are enshrined in EU law since the founding Treaties. The principle of equal pay has been implemented through secondary law not only between women and men, but also between employees with fix term contracts and comparable permanent workers, between part-time and full-time workers or between temporary agency workers and comparable workers of the user undertaking. By doing so the related jurisprudence of the Court of Justice of the European Union must be respected and taken into consideration.
Amendment 91 #
2016/0070(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2 – point a Directive 96/71/EC
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2 – point a Directive 96/71/EC
(c) remuneration,minimum rates of pay, bonuses and allowances including overtime rates; this point does not apply to supplementary occupational retirement pension schemes;
Amendment 96 #
2016/0070(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2 – point a
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2 – point a
Directive 96/71/EC
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
Amendment 100 #
2016/0070(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) The Rome I Regulation clarifies also the situation of posted workers as it provides that the country where the work is habitually carried out shall not be deemed to have changed if he is temporarily employed in another country.
Amendment 110 #
2016/0070(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) In view of the long duration of certain posting assignments, it is necessary to provide that, in case of posting lasting for periods higher than 24 months, the host Member State is deemed to be the country in which the work is carried out. In accordance with the principle of Rome I Regulation, the law of the host Member Sates therefore applies to the employment contr in line with Recital (2), it is necessary to state that posting is clearly covered by Article 8 (2) of Rome I. Regulation. The temporary nature of posting (as provision of service), which is a crucial element in the determination of habitual placte of such posted workers if no other choice of law was made by the parties. In case a different choice was made, it cannot, however, have the result of depriving the employee of the protection afforded to him by provisions that cannot be derogated from by agreement under the law of the host Member State. This should apply from the start of the posting assignment whenever it is envisaged for more than 24 months and from the first day subsequent to the 24 monwork can only be determined on a case by case basis and it is not only determined by the length of time but also by other factors and facts of the individual worker's life. In addition to this, Article 2 of this when it effectively exceeds this duration. This rule does not affect the right of undertakings posting workers to the territory of another Member State to invoke the freedom to provide serviceDirective defines the nature of posting as having a temporary character therefore temporary character is ian circumstances also where the posting exceeds 24 months. The purpose is merely to create legal certainty in the application of the Rome I Regulation to a specific situation, without amending that Regulation in any way. The employee will in particular enjoy the protection and benefits pursuant to the Rome I Regulationindispensable feature of genuine posting. Moreover, the case law provides explanation of the notion of temporary nature of the provision of services, which is to be determined by its duration, regularity, periodicity and continuity.
Amendment 112 #
2016/0070(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2 – point b
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2 – point b
Directive 96/71/EC
Article 3 – paragraph 1 a
Article 3 – paragraph 1 a
Amendment 140 #
2016/0070(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 9 a (new)
Recital 9 a (new)
(9a) Directive 2014/67/EC on the enforcement of Directive 96/71/EC provides a number of provisions to make sure that rules on posting of workers are enforced and are obeyed by all service providers. Article 4 of the enforcement Directive provides a clear list of elements that should be assessed in order to identify the genuine posting and prevent abuse as well as circumvention.
Amendment 164 #
2016/0070(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 10 a (new)
Recital 10 a (new)
(10a) During the implementation of the current posting of workers directive must be enforced fully and at the same time the unlawful practice of undeclared work shall be eliminated by strengthened efforts by the European Commission in all relevant areas in order to defend the rights and opportunities of the posted workers.
Amendment 172 #
2016/0070(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 11
Recital 11
(11) In a competitive internal market, service providers compete not only on the basis of a labour costs but also on factors such as productivity and efficiency, oras well as and rates of pay, bonuses and allowances are always based on a series of parameters, including experience, profile, level of responsibilities, labour market conditions, or on the quality and innovation of their goods and services.
Amendment 191 #
2016/0070(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 12
Recital 12
(12) It is within Member States' competence to set rules on remunerationminimum rates of pay and bonuses and allowances in accordance with their law and practice. However, these national rules on remuneration applied to posted workers must be proportionate and justified by the need to protect posted workers and must not disproportionately restrict the cross-border provision of services. Hence the Member States should ensure that workers posted to their territory are entitled to minimum rates of pay as well as specific categories of bonuses and allowances as specified in Article 3.1.(c).
Amendment 208 #
2016/0070(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 13
Recital 13
(13) The elements of remunerationminimum pay, bonus and allowance under national law or universally applicable collective agreements should be clear and transparent to all service providers. It is therefore justified to impose on Member States the obligation to publish the constituent elements of remunerationminimum rates of pays, bonuses and allowances on the single website provided for by Article 5 of the Enforcement Directive.
Amendment 232 #
2016/0070(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 14
Recital 14
(14) Laws, reguVia their national legislations, administrative provisions or collective agreements applicable in Member States may ensure that subcontracting does not confer on undertakings the possibilMember States have the freedom to establish on their territory appropriate measures applicable to local and foreign service providers in order to ensure compliance wityh to avoid rules guaranteeing certain terms and conditions of employment covering remuneration. Where such rules on remunerationhe applicable rules concerning posting in case of subcontracting chains. Where such rules on pays, bonuses and allowances exist at national level, the Member State may apply them in a non- discriminatory manner to undertakings posting workers to its territory provided that they do not disproportionately restrict the cross-border provision of services.
Amendment 257 #
2016/0070(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point -1 (new)
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point -1 (new)
Directive 96/71/EC
Article 1 – paragraph 1
Article 1 – paragraph 1
(–1) In Article 1, paragraph 1 is amended as follows: 1. This Directive shall not apply to undertakings established in a Member State which, in the framework of the transnational proviswhich post workers, if the periond of services, post workers, in accordance with paragraph 3, to the territory of a Member Stateposting does not exceed three days within one month reference period.
Amendment 277 #
2016/0070(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Directive 96/71/EC
Article 2a
Article 2a
Amendment 280 #
2016/0070(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 1
Amendment 373 #
2016/0070(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2 – point a
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2 – point a
Directive 96/71/EC
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – indent 2 – point c
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – indent 2 – point c
(c) remunerationminimum rates of pay, bonuses and allowances, including overtime rates; this point does not apply to supplementary occupational retirement pension schemes;
Amendment 378 #
2016/0070(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2 – point a
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2 – point a
Directive 96/71/EC
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – indent 2 – point d
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – indent 2 – point d
(d) the conditions of hiring-out of workers, in particular the supply of workers by temporary employment undertakings, except the conditions of collective accommodation for workers;
Amendment 401 #
2016/0070(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2 – point a
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2 – point a
Directive 96/71/EC
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2
For the purpose of this Directive, remuneration means all the elements of remuneration rendered mandatory by national law, regulation or administrative provision, collective agreements or arbitration awards which have been declared universally applicable and/or, in the absence of a system for declaring collective agreements or arbitration awards to be of universal application, other collective agreements or arbite clear and unambiguous application of this Directive, pay, bonuses and allowances mean all the elements rendered mandatory by national law and/or praction awards within the meaning of paragraph 8 second subparagraph, ince of the Member State to whose territory the worker is posted.
Amendment 433 #
2016/0070(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2 – point a
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2 – point a
Directive 96/71/EC
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 3
Article 3 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 3
Member States shall publish in the single and registered official national website referred to in Article 5 of Directive 2014/67/EU the constituent elements of remunerates of pay, the method of calculation in accordance with point (c).
Amendment 454 #
2016/0070(COD)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2 – point b
Article 1 – paragraph 1 – point 2 – point b
Directive 96/71/EC
Article 3 – paragraph 1 a
Article 3 – paragraph 1 a
Amendment 79 #
2015/2342(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
Amendment 83 #
2015/2342(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas the increase in human mobility, if managed in a safe, orderly, regular and responsible manner, can provide significant benefits, as recognised by the 2030 Agenda, but these are often largely underestimated; whereas the ageing of the European population requires, among other measures, relying on foreign workers in order to guarantee an adequate balance between active and retired people;
Amendment 120 #
2015/2342(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Underlines the fact that we are witnessing in today’s world an unprecedented level of human mobility, and stresses that one of the most urgent actions the international community must undertake is the strengthening of a common response to address the challenges and opportunities that this phenomenon represents; stresses that this response must be guided by the full protection of the rights and dignity of, and the provision of assistance in their home country, for everyone forced by any circumstance to flee their homes in search of a better life; underlines that, though their treatment is governed by separate legal frameworks, refugees and migrants have the same universal human rights and fundamental freedoms, which need to be safeguarded regardless of their status; recalls that the EU must abide by its values and principles in all common policies and promote them in its external relations;
Amendment 121 #
2015/2342(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Underlines the fact that we are witnessing in today’s world an unprecedented level of human mobility, and stresses that one of the most urgent actions the international community must undertake is the strengthening of a common response to address the challenges and opportunities that this phenomenon represents; stresses that this response must be guided by the full protection of the rights and dignity of, and the provision of assistance in their home country, for everyone forced by any circumstance to flee their homes in search of a better life; underlines that, though their treatment is governed by separate legal frameworks, refugees and migrants have the same universal human rights and fundamental freedoms, which need to be safeguarded regardless of their status; recalls that the EU must abide by its values and principles in all common policies and promote them in its external relations;
Amendment 147 #
2015/2342(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Stresses that well-managed international migration represents an importcant contributione to socioeconomic development, as it has done historically, and that it is necessary to encourage this by changinge the current narrative and developing a positive one one based on solidarity, countering xenophobic, populist and nationalistic discourses and adopting policies focused on the medium and long term and not exclusively guided by immediate political pressures, while also addressing legitimate concerns regarding border management, social protection for vulnerable groups and integration of refugees and migrants;
Amendment 148 #
2015/2342(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Stresses that well-managed international migration represents an importcant contributione to socioeconomic development, as it has done historically, and that it is necessary to encourage this by changinge the current narrative and developing a positive one one based on solidarity, countering xenophobic, populist and nationalistic discourses and adopting policies focused on the medium and long term and not exclusively guided by immediate political pressures, while also addressing legitimate concerns regarding border management, social protection for vulnerable groups and integration of refugees and migrants;
Amendment 161 #
2015/2342(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Recognises that the humanitarian aid system is dangerously overstretched and that it will never be sufficient to respond to forced displacement crises, in particular given the protracted nature of a majority of them; welcomes therefore the new policy framework outlined in the Commission communication on ‘Forced Displacement and Development’ of April 2016; notes the importance of promoting closer humanitarian-development links and the need to engage with different partners – governments, local authorities, civil society, including refugees themselves, local religious organisations and NGOs, and the private sector – to develop targeted evidence-based strategies to tackle this challenge;
Amendment 162 #
2015/2342(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Recognises that the humanitarian aid system is dangerously overstretched and that it will never be sufficient to respond to forced displacement crises, in particular given the protracted nature of a majority of them; welcomes therefore the new policy framework outlined in the Commission communication on ‘Forced Displacement and Development’ of April 2016; notes the importance of promoting closer humanitarian-development links and the need to engage with different partners – governments, local authorities, civil society, including refugees themselves, local religious organisations and NGOs, and the private sector – to develop targeted evidence-based strategies to tackle this challenge;
Amendment 180 #
2015/2342(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Stresses that EU development cooperation should continue to address the root causes of forced displacement by promoting peace, democracy and security, reducing poverty and inequality, strengthening basic services, addressing state fragility and promoting human rights and good governance, in line with Sustainable Development Goal 16 in the new 2030 Agenda, and establishing closer cooperation with the leaders of local religious organisations and NGOs;
Amendment 181 #
2015/2342(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Stresses that EU development cooperation should continue to address the root causes of forced displacement by promoting peace, democracy and security, reducing poverty and inequality, strengthening basic services, addressing state fragility and promoting human rights and good governance, in line with Sustainable Development Goal 16 in the new 2030 Agenda, and establishing closer cooperation with the leaders of local religious organisations and NGOs;
Amendment 265 #
2015/2342(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Underlines that the international community may regard the resettlement of forcibly displaced persons is aas its own responsibility of the international community; considers it crucial to implement as a matter of urgency a coordinated response in third countries to grant asylum for people in need of international protection, instead of leaving the burden on the front-line states or countries neighbouring conflict zones; highlights the fact that financial support is outpaced by the scope and scale of displacement, compounded by the lack of solutions to address the root causes of this forced displacement;
Amendment 266 #
2015/2342(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Underlines that the international community may regard the resettlement of forcibly displaced persons is aas its own responsibility of the international community; considers it crucial to implement as a matter of urgency a coordinated response in third countries to grant asylum for people in need of international protection, instead of leaving the burden on the front-line states or countries neighbouring conflict zones; highlights the fact that financial support is outpaced by the scope and scale of displacement, compounded by the lack of solutions to address the root causes of this forced displacement;
Amendment 267 #
2015/2342(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Underlines that the resettlementassistance of forcibly displaced persons in their home country is a responsibility of the international community; considers it crucial to implement as a matter of urgency a coordinated response in third countries to grant asylum for people in need of international protection, instead of leaving the burden on the front-line states or countries neighbouring conflict zones; highlights the fact that financial support is outpaced by the scope and scale of displacement, compounded by the lack of solutions to address the root causes of this forced displacement;
Amendment 285 #
2015/2342(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Stresses nonetheless the need to find political solutions to violent conflicts and to invest in early-warning and conflict- prevention mechanisms so as to reduce them in the future; calls for the EU to take a more active and effective role in the field of prevention and mediation; stresses that the response to forced displacement needs to be rights-based and take account of the population’s vulnerabilities – in particular as regards women and minors – and not be limited to humanitarian assistance but also involve development actors; and local religious organisations and NGOs;
Amendment 286 #
2015/2342(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Stresses nonetheless the need to find political solutions to violent conflicts and to invest in early-warning and conflict- prevention mechanisms so as to reduce them in the future; calls for the EU to take a more active and effective role in the field of prevention and mediation; stresses that the response to forced displacement needs to be rights-based and take account of the population’s vulnerabilities – in particular as regards women and minors – and not be limited to humanitarian assistance but also involve development actors and local religious organisations and NGOs;
Amendment 526 #
2015/2342(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Welcomes the use of common security and defence policy (CSDP) missions such as EUCAP Sahel Niger and EUNAVFOR MED, cooperation with NATO, and EU initiatives such as Europol’s Joint Operational Team (JOT) Mare to gather intelligence and fight smugglers, while underlining that global mobility should not be considered a threat; recommends the use of CSDP tools for early warning (forecasting), mediation and conflict resolution, while stressing the importance of starting to plan for durable solutions as early as possible in conflict situations;
Amendment 527 #
2015/2342(INI)
20. Welcomes the use of common security and defence policy (CSDP) missions such as EUCAP Sahel Niger and EUNAVFOR MED, cooperation with NATO, and EU initiatives such as Europol’s Joint Operational Team (JOT) Mare to gather intelligence and fight smugglers, while underlining that global mobility should not be considered a threat; recommends the use of CSDP tools for early warning (forecasting), mediation and conflict resolution, while stressing the importance of starting to plan for durable solutions as early as possible in conflict situations;
Amendment 293 #
2015/2229(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 60
Paragraph 60
60. Recalls that freedom of thought, conscience, religion and belief is a fundamental human right, as recognised in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, as well as guaranteed by Article 18 of the UN International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights; expresses its concern that a large number of UN countries still fail to abide by UN standards and use state repression, which may include physical punishment, prison terms, exorbitant fines and even the death penalty in violation of freedom of religion or belief;
Amendment 302 #
2015/2229(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 61
Paragraph 61
61. Calls on the EU and the Member States to step up their efforts to enhance respect for freedom of thought, conscience, religion and belief and to promote inter- religious dialogue when engaging with third countries; fully supports the EU practice of taking the lead on thematic resolutions at the UNHRC and at the UNGA on freedom of religion and belief; requests concrete action and measures towards the effective implementation of the EU Guidelines on the promotion and protection of freedom of religion or belief, including by ensuring systematic and consistent training of EU staff at Headquarters and in Delegations;
Amendment 391 #
2015/2229(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 78
Paragraph 78
78. Is deeply concerned that civil society is increasingly under assault worldwide with an increasing number of countries passing harsh laws to stifle their activities, restricting NGO access to foreign funding, introducing burdensome reporting requirements and severe penalties for non-compliance setting dangerous trends globally to other countries; recalls that independent civil society plays an essential role in the defence and advancement of human rights and in the functioning of democratic societies;
Amendment 398 #
2015/2229(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 79
Paragraph 79
79. Positively notes that in the new Action Plan the VP/HR reiterated the EU’s commitment to empowering local actors and civil society organisations, and stresses that, given the significant shrinking of its space, civil society, and in particular human rights defenders, requires increased attention and efforts from the EU; urges the EU and its Member States, therefore, to elaborate a coherent and comprehensive response to the major challenges that civil society, including human rights defenders, faces worldwide, keeping in mind that human rights defenders are key players for the consolidation of democratic principles, often at the risk of their own lives;
Amendment 47 #
2015/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas 2015 marks the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the EU and China; whereas the EU-China Strategic Partnership is of key importance to relations between the EU and the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and, to finding mutual answers to a range of global concerns and identifying common interests in order to strengthen cooperation and genuinely deepen mutual understanding and increase trust;
Amendment 73 #
2015/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas President Xi Jinping launched the ‘Chinese Dream’, which iswas put forward as a concept and vision aimed at revitaliszing the Chinese nation inside and outside the PRC by strengthening the power monopoly of the CPC, re- ideologising the party, the state and society and increasing the authority of the party leadernational rejuvenation and building a moderately prosperous society across a broad spectrum of economic, social, cultural and political dimensions;
Amendment 82 #
2015/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas President Xi Jinping’s popular anti-corruption campaign, launched in 2012 and claimed to address to address governance issues by targeting Party, government, military and state-owned company officials suspected of corruption, has claimed one high-profile victim after another, exposing not only graft, but also the vast fortunes amassed by Chinese leaders and also revealing the infiltration of powerful criminal networks into the political system;
Amendment 93 #
2015/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas environmental degradation in China has taken dramatic proportions and requires powerfulurgent, strong and targeted government action;
Amendment 99 #
2015/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H
Recital H
H. whereas in 2013 and 2014 Beijing, Kunming and Urumqi were the targets of major and violent terrorist attacks, leaving 72 people dead and 356 injured; whereas China is preparing an anti counter-terror law, which underlines the fact that the government gives the fight against terrorism the highest priority;
Amendment 121 #
2015/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital M
Recital M
M. whereas China is North Korea’s main political supporter, largest investor, aid donor, food and energy supplier and trade partner; whereas Chinese experts recently revealed that North Korea may already have 20 nuclear warheads;
Amendment 128 #
2015/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital O
Recital O
Amendment 139 #
2015/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital O a (new)
Recital O a (new)
Oa. whereas China has officially and nominally accepted the universality of human rights and in the past three decades opted into the international human rights framework by signing a wide range of human rights treaties thus joining the international arena of international legal institutional framework of human rights;
Amendment 192 #
2015/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Stresses the need for EU Member States to speak with one voice to the Chinese Government, particularly in view of Beijing’s present diplomatic dynamism; deploregrets the lack of profound debate and close coordination at EU level regarding Member States’ membership of the AIIB;
Amendment 246 #
2015/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Notes that President Xi Jinping is trying to give a new attractive face toimprove the image of Chinese politics through an attitude of openness and to impress world leaders by projecting both accessibility and powerful self-confidence; points out with concern, however, that President Xi is not the new attractive face of Chinese politics for the country's civil rights activists, lawyers, journalists, bloggers and academics, who find their freedom curbed in a way not seen sincefor decades;
Amendment 254 #
2015/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Notes that a new law, the Overseas NGO Management Law, was proposed recently, claiming "to regulate the activities of overseas NGOs in China, protect their legal rights and interests and promote exchanges and cooperation between Chinese and foreigners"; underlines with concern that such a law should not be used to enable the government to further increase control over NGOs and civil society by arbitrarily blocking their activities and urges the Chinese authorities to design a registration and oversight system that guarantees freedom of expression and association as enshrined in the Chinese Constitution and consistent with international law;
Amendment 270 #
2015/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Observes that, although the targets of the anti-corruption campaign extend from low level officials to the highest political level, in official discourse referred to as "killing tigers and swatting flies", these seem to be limited to the allies of President Xi's main rivals in the CPC; considers that this fierce ongoing anti-corruption campaign is, at the same time, serving to win back popular trust in the CPC and re-establish the CPC's authority, to discipline the bureaucracy and to eliminate rivals inside the CPC as challenges to its legitimacy in the midst of a slowing economy;
Amendment 277 #
2015/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Notes the increasing number of peaceful mass environmental protests in different parts of the country, as seen this year following the chemical explosion in Tianjin on 12 August that killed over one hundred people and displaced thousands of residents, bringing China's working and middle class together about a common grievance to demonstrate against projects deemed detrimental to the environment and human health, reflecting growing awareness and concern among Chinese citizens about pollution, but also a high level of public distrust of the government exposing the leadership's weakness in enforcing the rule of law and its failures in implementing environmental protection laws;
Amendment 282 #
2015/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Notes that the rapid ageing of the Chinese population poses significant risks to the country's prosperity and social stability; notes that should the declining working-age population no longer be able to support the increasingly older population; welcomes the government's policy measures to tackle the issue (with gradual relaxation of the one-child policy), but notes with concern that these measures have not yet led to a significant rise in the birth rate, mainly for economic reasons; therefore urges the CPC to genuinely address the country's demographic imbalances with less birth regulation and control over the population, and instead rethink and introduce effective family planning policies and incentives that stress education, encourage changes to public attitudes and mentality thus far shaped by decades of propaganda on family-planning and respect the freedom to make personal decisions;
Amendment 303 #
2015/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. ObservUnderlines that in recent years China's anti-terrorism policy has evolved rapidly from a somewhat reactive ‘defence against terror' approach to a proactive ‘war on terror', along with permanent ‘crisis management' enaddressing current global security challenges China needs a specific comprehensive and transparent counter-terrorism law in line with international standards in order to adequately respond to terrorist threats; however observes that in recent years China's anti-terrorism policy has evolved with increasing surveillance methods introduced to "maintain stabiling action to an unprecedented extent in affected regions and in society; ty" that in fact allow arbitrary applications and abuse and may lead to human rights violations;
Amendment 311 #
2015/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8a. Is concerned about the newly drafted law on counter-terrorism in China, published shortly after the Party's proclamation of "comprehensively advancing the rule of law", which may be used to severely restrict the fundamental rights of people in the name of security; calls on China to review the vague language of the draft regarding the definition of terrorism and terrorist activities, which would give excessive discretionary powers to state organs working on counter-terrorism and security forces;
Amendment 335 #
2015/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Notes that since its launch President Xi Jinping's Chinese Dream of national rejuvenation, which foresees a stronger and more pro- active role for China in the world, has been widely perceived outside the PRC as strengthening the power monopoly of the CPC, re-ideologising the party, the state and society and increasing the authority of the party leader; therefore calls for a commensurate EU strategy towards Asia within a transatlantic context; stresses that China's rise as a global power requires a reconsideration of Europe's strategic priorities in its relations with China as a matter of urgency;
Amendment 362 #
2015/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 a (new)
Paragraph 14 a (new)
14a. Take notes of Taiwan's "South China Sea Peace Initiative" with a view of reaching a consensus on a code of conduct and the establishment of a mechanism allowing all sides to cooperate in the joint exploitation of natural and marine resources in the region; supports all actions that enable the South China Sea to become a "Sea of Peace and Cooperation";
Amendment 366 #
2015/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Urges the Chinese Government to use all its levers of influence to induce North Korea to return to credible denuclearisation talks and to take concrete steps to denuclearise; reminds that China remains North Korea's most important ally, therefore encourages the Chinese government that together with the international community they could play a constructive role in urgently addressing the dire human rights situation in North Korea, including dealing with the thousands of North Korea refugees who cross the border into China fleeing appalling conditions at home; urges the Chinese government that in accordance with its obligations as a state party to the UN Refugee Convention not to deny them their right to seek asylum and not to forcibly return them to North Korea but protect their fundamental human rights;
Amendment 390 #
2015/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
Amendment 408 #
2015/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 a (new)
Paragraph 17 a (new)
17a. Reminds that the universality of human rights has always been at the heart of EU-China human rights dialogues; notes with concern that in the official Chinese view universality is questioned on grounds of cultural differences which has been an important source of their conceptual differences leading to lack of understanding and distrust in EU-China relations and which has limited progress in the EU-China human rights dialogues; calls therefore on the Chinese leadership to reconsider how they approach the question and to respect the universality of human rights consistent with the Declaration of Human Rights; urges further that EU institutions work together with the Chinese authorities in their dialogues to advance the respect for universality;
Amendment 414 #
2015/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 b (new)
Paragraph 17 b (new)
17b. Notes that certain commitments were put forward by President Xi Jinping to "comprehensively advance ruling the country according to the law", along with combating corruption; is however deeply concerned about the recent round up of over 200 lawyers, particularly those who focus on human rights cases, accusing many of "disrupting public order" and of seeking to undermine the Party, where the authorities have claimed that such drastic measures are in fact a defence of China's legal system; stresses that these measures contradict the authorities' claim to advance the rule of law and undermine any effort undertaken for political reform;
Amendment 415 #
2015/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 c (new)
Paragraph 17 c (new)
17c. Reminds that in the official Chinese view socio-economic rights continue being prioritized over individual civil and political rights, whereas these rights in European understanding are considered fundamental and equally important and that economic development and human rights go together, reflecting differences in European and Chinese perceptions of human rights visible in official positions; further stresses that a comprehensive protection of human rights is essential for continued economic growth in China and therefore urges the Chinese authorities to ensure the respect of both socio-economic and civil and political rights;
Amendment 423 #
2015/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Criticises the fact that while in China freedom of religion is not a right, but a matter for the state, which sets the limits of what is permissible nominally guaranteed by the Constitution, in practice the government restricts religious practices to officially approved and recognized religious organizations; supports the resistance of Chinese churches against the government's renewed strategy of ‘sinicisation' of Christianity; condemns, in particular, the ongoing anti-Christian campaign in the province of Zhejiang, during which dozens of churches were demolished and more than 400 crosses removed in 2014; shares the concerns of churches about other provinces where there is a strong Christian presence;
Amendment 450 #
2015/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 a (new)
Paragraph 19 a (new)
19a. Is deeply concerned about the on- going transfer of members of the Han Chinese population into Tibetan inhabited areas as well as about China's large-scale programs to relocate entire Tibetan communities and the majority of the rural population of the Tibet Autonomous Region as well as of nomadic herders in the eastern part of the Tibetan plateau without adequate access to education, health and economic prospect, part of the government's effort to "build a new socialist countryside" in Tibetan areas, radically transforming their traditional way of living and endangering their cultural identity and heritage;
Amendment 460 #
2015/2003(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 b (new)
Paragraph 19 b (new)
19b. Condemns the Chinese government for conducting extensive resource extraction and unsustainable development on the Tibetan plateau as a result of which the plateau's ecosystem and biodiversity are now endangered; urges therefore the Chinese government to allow participation by Tibetan communities in the development process, as indigenous knowledge is indispensable to policies on the sustainable development of the plateau, home to Asia's greatest rivers, that provide water critical to the survival of millions of people downstream; further stresses the urgent need for the Chinese authorities to develop government policies to conserve the environment of the Tibetan plateau with the collaboration of all people who have a stake in the future of Tibet;
Amendment 110 #
2015/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Stresses the importance and timeliness of the review of the ENP; emphasises that the revised ENP should be able to provide a quick and adequate response to the situation on the ground, while also putting forward a long-term vision for developing relations with the neighbouring countries in line with its commitment to promote the core values on which it is based;
Amendment 150 #
2015/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Stresses that respect for the universal fundamental values of human rights, rule of law and democracy on which the EU is founded must remain at the core of the revised policy and guide the EU's relations with its neighbours;
Amendment 171 #
2015/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Stresses that the renewed policy must be more strategic, with a real political vision, and politically driven and reflect a clear analysis and comprehensive understanding of the EU's interest; calls for special envoys to be appointed for the East and the South, with the task of politically coordinating the revised policy and adequately pursuing the EU's interests as well as promoting its core values as articulated in the ENP;
Amendment 192 #
2015/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Urges that short-, medium- and long- term priorities and strategic objectives be defined, bearing in mind that the ENP should aim to create different levels of cooperation in different areas among and with the ENP countries; stresses that in defining its approach the EU should look at its priorities and those of the individual countries concerned, together with their level of development, considering in particular the interests of society on the whole and not only those of the political elite;
Amendment 202 #
2015/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Emphasises that local ownership and inclusiveness should be key aspects of the new approach so as to ensure that the benefits of the ENP reach all levels of society throughout the country, via improved communication of ENP objectives in society, with special focus on the inclusion of women, as well as young people as key actors in shaping the future;
Amendment 228 #
2015/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Calls onUrges the EU to improve its coordination with other donors and international financial institutions in line with its commitment to become a more responsible, respected and effective global actor in the region, and calls for joint programming with its Member States; considers that better coordination with and among the Member States is necessary in order to achievndispensable to achieve and pursue a common approach to the short- and medium-term goals of the EU's cooperation with neighbouring countries;
Amendment 304 #
2015/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Considers support for democracy, the rule of law and human rights to be central to the ENP; stresses that the EU shouldand its member states must be willing and ready to offer incentives and know-how and expertise to help overcome the social challenges and economic costs of undertaking democratic reforms;
Amendment 321 #
2015/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Underlines the continuous need to focus on strengthening and consolidating democracy, the rule of law, the independence of the justice system, respect for minorities and diversity;cultural diversity as well as the need to combat discrimination against vulnerable groups and ethnic and religious minorities, highlights that capacity-building in national institutions, including their national assemblies, together with support for civil society, pro- democracy groups and political parties, will enhance political dialogue and pluralism and encourage a climate inspired by the respect of fundamental freedoms and universal human rights and foster levels of social trust;
Amendment 339 #
2015/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Stresses the importance oft role the ENP should play in contributing to the developingment of a thriving and active civil society in the processes of transformation and democratisation, which includes social partners and the business community; further stresses the significant role civil society can play in efficiently and effectively addressing key social issues and meeting local needs with the inclusion of young people, underlines the importance of European companies and their role in the promotion and dissemination of international standards for business;
Amendment 434 #
2015/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Underlines the need for an overarching political strategy to restore the European political order while ensuring full compliance with international law and commitments, as laid down in the Helsinki Final Act of 1975, based on respect for human rights, minority rights and fundamental freedoms, independence, sovereignty and the territorial integrity of states, equal rights and self-determination of peoples and peaceful resolution of conflicts; notes that the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), as the biggest regional organisation responsible for security, can play an important role in this regard;
Amendment 465 #
2015/2002(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Stresses the need to actively promote and assist in the peaceful settlement of conflicts in the region, using different tools and instruments, on the basis of the added value they may provide – such measures include its EU Special Representatives, confidence-building programmes and CSDP missions; urges the Commission to develop and implement more ambitious confidence-building programmes in conflict areas with a view of restoring dialogue and facilitating people-to-people exchange; calls on the VP/HR and the EEAS to develop innovative measures and approaches, including public communication strategies and informal consultations in order to support dialogue and reconciliation;
Amendment 203 #
2015/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Stresses that at this point, Russia, because of its actions, can no longer be treated as, or considered, a ‘strategic partner’; points out that strategic partnerships are only conceivable with countries that do not jeopardise the international order, which is based on democracy, state sovereignty (including the choice of internal constitutional order and foreign policy orientation), the inviolability of state borders, respect for the rule of law and the principles of international trade, and mutual trust; further stresses that a strategic partnership with Russia will be possible only if based on shared values, common long-term goals and interests, allowing the two sides to re-engage in dialogue and rebuild trust;
Amendment 231 #
2015/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Is deeply concerned by the fact that Russia now openly positions itself, and acts, not as a partner of, but as a rival to the international democratic community, seeking to challenge and undermine the current international order, and is in the process of redrawing borders within Europe; is extremely worried by the tendency of the Russian authorities to systematically denigrate liberal democracy and to consider democratic neighbouring countries as a threat to their own rule;
Amendment 282 #
2015/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Commends the solidarity and the unity demonstrated by the Member States in the context of Russia’s undeclared war against Ukraine, allowing the adoption and further extension of responsive measures; calls on the Member States to consider as an absolute priority the preservation of this unity; reiterates that unity and solidarity amongst the Member States, as well as between the EU and the Eastern Partnership countries, is essential for ensuring the effectiveness, the credibility and legitimacy of the EU’s policies and its ability to withstand external challenges and pressures and effectively address them;
Amendment 299 #
2015/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Underlines, in this regard, that the strengthening of internal policies, notably through closer integration, is the keystone of an efficient, coherent and successful EU external policyies, whereby human rights are anchored at the heart of all external policies and mainstreamed in line with the commitments undertaken via the Lisbon Treaty, necessary for the EU to become a more responsible and respected global actor; calls, therefore, on the Member States to carry on with, and intensify their efforts towards, the effective elimination of decision-making bottlenecks and the consolidation of common policies, with the aim of minimising the vulnerabilities of these policies and maximising their resilience, in particular in the areas of trade, financial services and transactions, migration, energy, external borders management, information and cyber security;
Amendment 427 #
2015/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Expresses its deep concern for the deteriorating state of human rights and the rule of law in Russia, and strongly condemns the crackdown ongovernment's continued crackdown on dissent, by targeting independent civil society and the persistent and multiform repression of activists, political opponents and critics of the regime, which has in some cases led to their murder (Anna Politkovskaya, Natalya Estemirova, Boris Nemtsov, Sergey Magnitsky, Alexander Litvinenko, and others); demands that all assassinations of political activists, journalists and whistle blowers be investigated properly and independently and those responsible be brought to justice in order to fight against the climate of impunity present in the country; reiterates its call on the Council to deliver on its commitment to defend these principles, and to adopt restrictive measures for the officials involved in the well-documented Magnitsky case;
Amendment 451 #
2015/2001(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Stresses the importance of continued political and financial support to independent civil society activists, media and NGOshuman rights defenders, bloggers, independent media, outspoken academics and public figures and NGOs who face increasing pressure, intimidation, often torture, harassment and life-threatening prison conditions at the hands of the authorities who want to discredit them, and further stifle freedom of expression, assembly and association in the country ; encourages the EU to reach out to Russian officials and civil society organisations that are inclined to develop an alternative vision of political and diplomatic relations with the EU;
Amendment 37 #
2014/2817(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Emphasises that the Agreement covers the entire territory of the Republic of Moldova, including Gagauzia and Transnistria, and is for the benefit of the whole population; calls on Moldova to ensure that the reforms are anchored and deeply rooted in the institutional framework;
Amendment 54 #
2014/2817(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Calls on Moldova to tackle with renewed strength the reform of the judiciary and the law enforcement systems and ensure constitutional provisions for an independent judiciary, equality before the law and basic civil rights; stresses the need to intensify the fight against corruption at all levels, inter alia by fully implementing the legislative package adopted in 2013; calls on the Moldovan authorities to ensure that the mechanisms belonging to the anti-corruption system, particularly the National Anti-Corruption Centre and the National Integrity Centre, are properly financed and staffed and free from undue influence; is worried that corruption can hamper the government's performance and progress achieved so far and therefore put European integration in jeopardy;
Amendment 60 #
2014/2817(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Stresses the need to investigate properly and fully all allegations of violations of human rights, and in particular to tackle impunity for ill- treatment and torture; urges therefore the Commission to provide assistance for government bodies to adequately address such violations with the necessary legal tools and social mechanisms aimed at the prevention of such crimes, as well as to work closely together with civil society to help them assume an enhanced role in the protection of human rights;
Amendment 65 #
2014/2817(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)
Paragraph 13 a (new)
13 a. Calls on the government to provide the adequate monitoring mechanisms and necessary resources for the implementation of the legal guarantees for all national minorities; further stresses the importance for the government to conduct dialogue with representatives of all ethnic minorities, including the Ukrainian, Russian, Gagauz and Bulgarian minorities;
Amendment 67 #
2014/2817(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Reiterates the need to strengthen and promote media freedom and plurality and to ensure transparency of media ownership and neutrality of publicly-owned media, while also supporting independent media; urges therefore the authorities to encourage and enable a more competitive media market to provide a greater selection of information sources and opinions, enhanced level of reliability and less politically biased reporting at local and national levels, necessary to enhance confidence in mass media;
Amendment 87 #
2014/2817(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Calls on Chisinau and Tiraspol to continue to engage constructively in order to find an effective solution to the Transnistria conflict and to take concrete steps to improve the lives of the region’s population, in particular the Romanian speaking community; stresses that the so- called ‘5+2’ framework for negotiations has so far failed to ensure a solution, and calls on the HR/VP and the EEAS to proactively seek an improved process for solving this conflict with a greater role for the EU; notes the need to ensure that the Transnistrian region, as an integral part of Moldova with special autonomous status, is covered by the reach and effects of the Agreement;
Amendment 91 #
2014/2817(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Calls on the Commission to step up the provision of assistance and expertise to civil society organisations in Moldova in order to enable them to provide internal monitoring of, and accountability for, the reforms and commitments that the government has undertaken in the process of drafting and implementing legislation, as well as to help civil society enhance its organizational and advocacy capacity, its role in watching antidiscrimination and anticorruption activities, and in general its role in fostering civic participation and volunteerism;
Amendment 139 #
2014/2254(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G a (new)
Recital G a (new)
Ga. whereas article 22 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union obliges the Union to "respect cultural, religious and linguistic diversity",
Amendment 148 #
2014/2254(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G b (new)
Recital G b (new)
Gb. whereas fundamental freedoms, human rights and equal opportunities shall be provided for all citizens of the European Union including persons belonging to national and linguistic minorities;
Amendment 402 #
2014/2254(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Deplores the fact that even today people belonging to minorities are still victims of discrimination; calls for more consistency of the European Union in the field of minority protection; strongly believes that all Member States as well as candidate countries shall be bound by the same principles and criteria in order to avoid the application of double standards; Calls therefore, as a part of resolving the so- called Copenhagen dilemma, for the establishment of an effective mechanism to monitor and ensure fundamental and acquired rights of national and linguistic minorities both in candidate countries and in countries already admitted to the European Union;
Amendment 266 #
2014/2229(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading 2
Subheading 2
Stepping up the global strategy for democracy and human rights
Amendment 324 #
2014/2229(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 a (new)
Paragraph 20 a (new)
20a. Expresses deep concern about the human rights violations, especially against vulnerable groups in the MENA countries facing conflicts; considers children to be one of the most vulnerable groups and therefore reiterates the need to step up efforts to implement the revised implementation strategy for the EU Guidelines on Children and Armed Conflict; encourages the EU to further deepen its cooperation with the UN Special Representative for Children affected by Armed Conflicts, supporting the associated action plans and monitoring and reporting mechanisms;
Amendment 325 #
2014/2229(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 b (new)
Paragraph 20 b (new)
20b. Condemns the continued violations of the right to freedom of religion or belief in the region and reiterates the importance which EU places on this issue; restates once again that freedom of thought, conscience and religion is a fundamental human right; stresses therefore the need to effectively combat all forms of discrimination against religious minorities, in particular Christians who are being persecuted and facing the danger of extinction in their motherlands;
Amendment 326 #
2014/2229(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 c (new)
Paragraph 20 c (new)
20c. Welcomes the adoption during the 2013 reporting year of the EU Guidelines on the Promotion and Protection of Freedom of Religion or Belief, and calls on the EU institutions and the Member States to pay particular attention to the implementation of these guidelines, both in international and regional forums and in bilateral relations with third countries; commends the new VP/HR for stating that freedom of religion or belief is one of the human rights priorities; encourages the VP/HR and the EEAS to engage in a permanent dialogue with NGOs, religious or belief groups and religious leaders;
Amendment 327 #
2014/2229(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 d (new)
Paragraph 20 d (new)
20d. Stresses the importance of new prodemocracy tools enhancing long term stability in MENA region such as European Endowment for Democracy (EED); calls on the Member States, in a spirit of solidarity and commitment, to provide the Endowment's budget with sufficient funding to ensure the most flexible and effective support for local actors of democratic change in the region;
Amendment 138 #
2014/2216(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Reiterates its support for dedicated human rights dialogues as a tool of EU human rights policy; recognises the value of engagement in human rights-specific dialogue alsoin particular with countries with serious human rights problems; underlines, however, the need for the EU to draw clear political conclusions when the human rights dialogue does not lead to positive outcomes, and in such cases to place more emphasis on public diplomacy with a view to ensuring that the public credibility of the EU’s human rights policy is not endangered; warns, furthermore, against diverting human rights discussions away from high-level political dialogues;
Amendment 141 #
2014/2216(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 a (new)
Paragraph 17 a (new)
17a. Urges the EEAS to continue further engaging with all countries that it currently has human rights dialogues in place by requesting concrete commitments from the respective authorities and by regularly following up on their demands raised during consultations
Amendment 142 #
2014/2216(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 b (new)
Paragraph 17 b (new)
17b. Urges the EEAS to develop a comprehensive review mechanism to help evaluate the dialogues in light of failure in achieving significant and tangible results in certain countries such as China, further urges the EU to strengthen its mechanism of benchmarks in order to help measure success and make the dialogues more effective, which would contribute to bringing countries with serious human rights problems closer to international standards of human rights
Amendment 197 #
2014/2216(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27 a (new)
Paragraph 27 a (new)
27a. Notes with regret that while certain countries, such as China, subscribe to the universality of human rights, at the same time they state that human rights must be considered in the national context bearing in mind the local economic, cultural, historical and religious backgrounds, which allows a relative application of human rights that contradicts their universal, indivisible and interdependent nature; while initiatives promoting human rights as universal, such as the 2012 ASEAN Human Rights Declaration are commendable, they equally advocate the relativist approach and undermine the promotion of human rights as universal; urges the EU to continue further engaging with these countries in all possible international fora and strengthen the UN human rights system, key to the advancement of universal rights;
Amendment 251 #
2014/2216(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 41
Paragraph 41
41. Reiterates its call for the systematic inclusion of human rights clauses in the EU’s international agreements, including trade and investment agreements, concluded with third countries, and calls for effective monitoring of their application as well as for reporting back to the relevant committee of Parliament on the agreements’ human rights aspects;
Amendment 321 #
2014/2216(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 54
Paragraph 54
54. Condemns all violence and discrimination on the basis of religion or belief, as Article 5 of the Lisbon Treaty prescribes; expresses its serious concern over the continued reports of violence and discrimination against religious minorities around the world; stresses that the right to freedom of thought, conscience, religion or belief, is a fundamental human right, interrelated with other human rights and fundamental freedoms, encompassing the right to believe or not to believe, the freedom to practise theistic, non-theistic or atheistic belief alike, and the right to adopt, change and abandon or return to a belief of one’s choice, as enshrined in Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights;
Amendment 327 #
2014/2216(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 54 a (new)
Paragraph 54 a (new)
54a. Strongly condemns attacks against Christians in several countries around the world and expresses solidarity with the families of the victims; is deeply concerned about the growing number of episodes of repression, discrimination, intolerance and violent attacks against Christian communities, in particular in Africa, Asia and Middle-East; further calls on governments to bring all those responsible to justice; is deeply concerned about the current situation of Christians in North Korea, Somalia, Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Uzbekistan, Yemen, Nigeria and many other countries, where Christians live in fear of being killed, face torture, rape and abduction and see their churches damaged or destroyed;
Amendment 457 #
2014/2216(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 76
Paragraph 76
76. Calls for concerted EU action to address the problem of land-grabbing; notes that the denial of access to land and natural resources to the rural and urban poor is one of the key causes of hunger and poverty in the world, thereby having an impact on the local communities’ enjoyment of their human rights, and particularly on their right to adequate food; welcomes the EU’s involvement in the development of the voluntary global guidelines on tenure of land, fisheries and forests, adopted under the aegis of the UN; emphasises, nevertheless, the urgent need to mainstream human rights and poverty reduction considerations in decision- making regarding the acquisition or long- term lease of large areas of land by investors; considers the EU’s response to this issue to be an important test of its commitment to move toward a rights-based approach in its development cooperation policy, as envisioned in the Lisbon Treaty through which the EU's development policy would further contribute to the sustainable economic, social and environmental development of developing countries with the primary aim of eradicating poverty in the world;
Amendment 459 #
2014/2216(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 76 a (new)
Paragraph 76 a (new)
76a. Calls on the EU and Member States to better coordinate their development agendas in the spirit of the Lisbon Treaty placing development policy at the forefront of the Union's external relations, so that national priorities and European agendas on human rights promotion are better coordinated via development, considering the complexities embedded in EU development policy;
Amendment 460 #
2014/2216(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 76 b (new)
Paragraph 76 b (new)
76b. Calls on the EEAS, under the coordination of the High Representative/Vice-President of the Commission, to better link foreign and security policy with development policy in order to build synergies and ensure a coherent approach aimed at the universal application of human rights via EU development policy; it further calls on the EU to better coordinate externally with emerging economies, such as the BRICS, in multilateral fora to address global governance issues and to promote human rights via the coordination of their different development agendas;
Amendment 8 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 11 a (new)
Citation 11 a (new)
- having regard to the European Union's Guidelines on the promotion and protection of freedom of religion or belief,
Amendment 33 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas the uprisings in the Arab world prompted the European Union to acknowledge the failure of past policies and to commit to a ‘'more for more’' approach in the Review of the Neighbourhood Policy, based on a commitment to ‘'adapt levels of EU support to partners according to progress on political reforms and building deep democracy’', including free and fair elections, freedom of association, expression and assembly, freedom of thought, conscience and religion or belief, a free press and media, and the rule of law administered by an independent judiciary;
Amendment 52 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Recognises the crucial role played by civil society in the protection and promotion of democracy and human rights; calls on the VP/HR to ensure close cooperation and partnership with civil society; considers also that the EU should throw its full weight behind all advocates of liberty, democracy, and human rights throughout the world, including human rights defenders as key players for the consolidation of democratic principles in their country and for the protection of human rights, often at the risk of their own lives;
Amendment 78 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Recognises the importance of the mandate given to the first EU Special Representative (SR) for Human Rights; encourages the EU SR to enhance the visibility, mainstreaming, coherence, consistency and effectiveness of EU human rights policy and to strike the right balance between silent and public diplomacy in carrying out his mandate; repeats its recommendation that the EU SR provide Parliament with a regular report on his activities and follow up on concerns raised by the Members;
Amendment 113 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Supports the practice of including legally binding human rights clauses in the EU's international agreements and promote human rights in all areas of its external action without exception, and considers that these clauses should also be included in all sectoral trade agreements;
Amendment 146 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27
Paragraph 27
27. Emphasises that the EU should give its full support to countries that have dislodged authoritarian regimes and are undergoing a transition to democracy by supporting civil society as a crucial actor in advocating rule of law, accountability and transparency and in promoting social movements for political change and participation; recalls that the police, the military and the judiciary are often used as mechanisms to perform systematic violations of human rights; stresses therefore that institutional reform of these bodies needs to provide for greater accountability and transparency in transition processes;
Amendment 207 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 41
Paragraph 41
41. Supports all steps leading to political dialogue, which is essential to move the transition in Egypt forward; expresses its deep concern about recent crises and, including the street battles between the army and Muslim Brotherhood supporters, terrorism and violent clashes in the Sinai and the extremist violence against Coptic Christian communities; calls on all political leaders in the country to find a way to break the dangerous stalemate and agree on implementing tangible confidence-building measures to avoid the risk of more bloodshed and polarisation in the country; urges the Egyptian authorities to advance the work on an inclusive constitution with equal rights for all;
Amendment 251 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 51
Paragraph 51
51. Stresses the need for international monitoring of the human rights situation in China and calls on EU Member States to actively engage in establishing this monitoring in light of the failure of the EU- China dialogue on human rights to achieve significant and tangible results; furthermore remains concerned about the lack of progress in human rights in the country, in particular about the increasing restrictions targeting human rights defenders, lawyers, civil society activists, journalists and bloggers; however observes with great interest and supports the internal demand of the Chinese people of their basic freedoms and rights to which they are entitled to, signalling a gradually but firmly expanding independent civil society in spite of continuous repression, to be considered a positive development in the political and civil rights movement in China;
Amendment 259 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 52
Paragraph 52
52. Expresses grave concern regarding the steadily deteriorating human rights situation in Iran, the continued repression of reformists, the growing number of political prisoners and prisoners of conscience and faith, the discrimination and persecution of the Baha'i community, the consistently high number of executions, including of minors, the widespread torture, the unfair trials and exorbitant sums demanded for bail, and the heavy restrictions on the freedom of information, expression, assembly, religion, education and movement;
Amendment 314 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading 20 a (new)
Subheading 20 a (new)
Freedom of thought, conscience, religion or belief (This subheading should be place between paragraph 72 and paragraph 73)
Amendment 315 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 73
Paragraph 73
73. Stresses that the right to freedom of thought, conscience, religion or belief, as encapsulated in Article 18 of the Universal Declaration on Human Rights and other international human rights instruments, is a fundamental human right, encompassing the right to believe or not to believe, and the right to adopt, change and abandon a belief of one's choiceinterrelated with other human rights and fundamental freedoms, encompassing the right to believe or not to believe, and the freedom to practise theistic, non-theistic or atheistic belief alike, either in private or public, alone or in a community with others and the right to adopt, change and abandon a belief of one's choice; calls on the EU to promote the right of freedom of religion or belief within international and regional fora and in bilateral relations with third countries;
Amendment 321 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 74
Paragraph 74
74. Condemns in the strongest terms discrimination, intolerance, violence and killings on grounds of religion or belief, wherever and to whomever they occur; is particularly concerned about the threat of increasing sectarianism along religious lines in countries such as Egypt and Syria as an impediment to long-lasting peace and reconciliation; furthermore, is concerned about increasing government and social hostility in many Islamic countries, Central Asia and the deplorable situation in North Korea, countries which continue to deny minority religious or belief groups the freedom to worship or publicly express their religion or belief; social hostility and attacks against religious or belief groups, which have resulted in many deaths and injuries, are on the increase; and impunity and the lack of protection for minority religious or belief communities remains a concern;
Amendment 324 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 74 a (new)
Paragraph 74 a (new)
74a. Opposes any legislation that penalises individuals for changing their religion or belief; expresses deep concern that as a result of such legislation individuals in certain countries face imprisonment or even the death penalty; is also concerned that those who have left or changed their religion are subjected to social hostility such as violence and intimidation; opposes laws that penalise expressions deemed blasphemous, defamatory, or insulting to religion or religious symbols, figures, or feelings; states that these laws do not comply with accepted international human rights standards; condemns Blasphemy law provisions in Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Egypt, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia which allow imprisonment and the death penalty;
Amendment 327 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 74 b (new)
Paragraph 74 b (new)
74b. Welcomes the EU's commitment to promoting the right to freedom of religion or belief within international and regional fora including the UN, the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), the Council of Europe (CoE) and other regional mechanisms; encourages the EU to continue tabling its yearly resolution on freedom of religion or belief at the UN General Assembly and supporting the mandate of the UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief
Amendment 329 #
2013/2152(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 74 c (new)
Paragraph 74 c (new)
74c. Welcomes recent EIDHR calls for proposals prioritising and supporting civil society actions combating discrimination on the basis of religion or belief; encourages the EU to support inclusive efforts of intercultural and interfaith dialogue and cooperation at various levels, involving community leaders, women, youth and ethnic minority representatives, and with the aim to promote peace building and societal cohesion calls on the EU and EU member states to develop small grant schemes for the protection and promotion of freedom of religion or belief in countries where this right is most at risk;
Amendment 2 #
2013/2129(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2 a (new)
Citation 2 a (new)
– having regard to the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union,
Amendment 3 #
2013/2129(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4 a (new)
Citation 4 a (new)
Amendment 4 #
2013/2129(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4 b (new)
Citation 4 b (new)
– having regard to the Council conclusions of 8 June 2011 on the memory of the crimes committed by totalitarian regimes in Europe,
Amendment 5 #
2013/2129(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4 c (new)
Citation 4 c (new)
– having regard to its many previous resolutions on democracy and respect for fundamental rights and freedoms, including that of 13 January 1983 on the situation in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania, of 27 January 2005 resolution on remembrance of the Holocaust, anti- semitism and racism, of 12 May 2005 on the 60th anniversary of the end of the Second World War in Europe on 8 May 1945, of 28 September 2005 on the 25th Anniversary of Solidarity and its message for Europe, of 26 October 2006 on the 50th anniversary of the 1956 Hungarian Uprising and its historical meaning for Europe, of 23 October 2008 on the commemoration of the Holodomor, and that of 15 January 2009 on Srebrenica,
Amendment 25 #
2013/2129(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A a (new)
Recital A a (new)
Aa. whereas to this day the victims of dictatorships have not been fully and genuinely rehabilitated and compensated;
Amendment 47 #
2013/2129(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
Ba. whereas the ‘Nuremberg trial’ of Communism has still not been held;
Amendment 58 #
2013/2129(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas for many European countries the end of the Second World War marked the inception of a fresh dictatorship and hence did not lead to full freedom; whereas for many years after the war Europe was divided, and its central and eastern parts not fully liberated until after 1989, when the opportunity presented itself for genuine integration across the entire continent;
Amendment 60 #
2013/2129(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas for many European countries the end of the Second World War did not lead to full freedom; whereas Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia and part of Romania were forcefully incorporated into the Soviet Union in 1940; whereas many eastern and central European countries were held captive by Soviet imposed communist dictatorships; whereas democracy was stifled in parts of Southern Europe until the late 1970s; whereas for many years after the war Europe was divided, and its central and eastern parts not fully liberated until after 1989, when the opportunity presented itself for genuine integration across the entire continent;
Amendment 103 #
2013/2129(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E a (new)
Recital E a (new)
Ea. whereas the process of mastering democracy is far more effective if information is provided about the heinous crimes of the dictatorships;
Amendment 143 #
2013/2129(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. whereas the presentation and teaching of history should be based not on political interpretation but on solid research work; whereas the full opening up of historical archives, including those of the former internal security services, secret police and intelligence agencies, will make it possible to carry out diligent research and to verify ‘historical lies’;
Amendment 149 #
2013/2129(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I a (new)
Recital I a (new)
Ia. whereas there is still no comprehensive EU programme for research into the dictatorships of the 20th century and the revelation of the heinous crimes committed;
Amendment 154 #
2013/2129(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J
Recital J
J. whereas the creation of athe Platform of European Memory and Conscience is an essential step on the road to genuine reconciliation among European nations, and whereas EU financial support is essential for this project to achieve its mission;
Amendment 162 #
2013/2129(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K a (new)
Recital K a (new)
Ka. whereas the 20th century dictatorships not only drastically restricted universal human freedom but were in every case also directed against one or more minorities;
Amendment 163 #
2013/2129(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K a (new)
Recital K a (new)
Ka. whereas activities related to the awareness and education and research of the crimes committed by totalitarian communist regimes are only in place in the Member States which experienced such crimes, while in other Member States there is insufficient awareness of these crimes;
Amendment 168 #
2013/2129(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K b (new)
Recital K b (new)
Kb. whereas legislation on the denial of the Holocaust exists in 10 Member States, only four Member States have national legislation on the denial of crimes committed by totalitarian regimes which explicitly includes crimes committed by totalitarian communist regimes;
Amendment 170 #
2013/2129(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K c (new)
Recital K c (new)
Kc. whereas all Member States have commemoration days of the Holocaust, while 9 Member States commemorate European Day of Remembrance for the Victims of Stalinism and Nazism, as called upon by the declaration of the European Parliament adopted on 23 September 2008;
Amendment 171 #
2013/2129(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K d (new)
Recital K d (new)
Kd. whereas the dominant historical experience of Western Europe was Nazism, and whereas Central and Eastern European countries have experienced both Communism and Nazism; whereas understanding has to be promoted in relation to the double legacy of dictatorship borne by these countries;
Amendment 172 #
2013/2129(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K e (new)
Recital K e (new)
Ke. whereas Europe will not be united unless it is able to form a common consciousness, recognises Nazism, Stalinism and fascist and Communist regimes as a common legacy and brings about an honest and thorough debate on their crimes in the past century;
Amendment 173 #
2013/2129(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K f (new)
Recital K f (new)
Kf. whereas there can be no reconciliation without truth and remembrance;
Amendment 200 #
2013/2129(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Acknowledges the sovereign right of the Member States to rehabilitate and compensate the victims of dictatorships in a complete and equitable manner; calls on the Member States to organise the legal, moral and material rehabilitation of the victims on the basis of the principles of justice, democracy and equity;
Amendment 204 #
2013/2129(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 b (new)
Paragraph 2 b (new)
2b. Calls on the Member States to investigate whether the instigators and political leaders of violent organisations run by the dictatorships are enjoying privileges; if this is the case in comparison with former victims, calls on Member States to put an end to these privileges;
Amendment 227 #
2013/2129(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Points out that it is unacceptable to apply double standards when assessing and critically analysing Communism and National Socialism and that the two dictatorships and their consequences must be assessed by the same criteria;
Amendment 236 #
2013/2129(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Notes that all countries implement their own history policy, which helps to build a sense of national identity, but which, in combination with ignorance and selective memory, can sometimes lead to falsifications of history that are dangerous and hurtful to victims and their families, as is the case when referring to Auschwitz- Birkenau, the Nazi German concentration camp in occupied Poland, as a ‘Polish death camp’; calls on Member States, precisely for this reason, to set up a joint committee of historians to research and clarify any issues which may remain controversial;
Amendment 254 #
2013/2129(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Considers that historical truth and memory, nurtured among other things by educational activities and cultural events, will reinforce genuine reconciliation between nations and authentic European integration based on truth and therefore recommends that greater efforts should be made to teach the history of Eastern Europe in Western Europe and vice versa;
Amendment 261 #
2013/2129(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Calls, if this has not yet happened, for the appropriate bodies of the Member States to expose without delay the crimes against humanity of the 20th century;
Amendment 272 #
2013/2129(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Supports the proposal for a Platform of European Memory and Conscience, the aim of which is to establish an international judicial body to deal with the most serious crimes of the Communist dictators; considers that. without a ‘Nuremberg trial’ of Communism, Europe cannot draw the curtain on its past;
Amendment 276 #
2013/2129(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Supports the proposal for aof the Platform of European Memory and Conscience, the aim of which is to establish an international judicial body to deal with the most serious crimes of the Communist dictatorships;
Amendment 279 #
2013/2129(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7a. Calls on Member States, if this has not yet fully happened, to rehabilitate and compensate individuals and communities that were persecuted, repressed or physically destroyed by dictatorships;
Amendment 285 #
2013/2129(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Calls on Member States to support ambitious history teaching programmes which do not gloss over the most difficult episodes; recognises that while Member States have complete autonomy as regards the content of their teaching syllabuses, they have to be based on common European values;
Amendment 294 #
2013/2129(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8a. Calls on the governments of the Member States to scrutinise their systems of law in detail and, if it is found to be still in force, repeal completely any legal provision which enshrines the principle of collective guilt;
Amendment 303 #
2013/2129(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Notes that modern media can play a vital role in promoting historical truth, both by accurately portraying historical events and by granting appropriate funding to historical productions and educational history programmes; considers that people living to the west of the former Iron Curtain should be more fully informed about the crimes of Communism;
Amendment 306 #
2013/2129(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Notes that modern media can play a vital role in promoting historical truth, both by accurately portraying historical events and by granting appropriate funding to historical productions and educational history programmes, such as the EUROCLIO project of Historiana, and, in this context, commends the level of awareness of the Holocaust and crimes of the Nazi regime and calls upon similar efforts to raise awareness of the crimes of other totalitarian regimes;
Amendment 310 #
2013/2129(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Stresses the importance of EU funds in promoting historical memory; notes that such funds should be used for projects linked to history education, promotion, research, revelation of heinous crimes, archiving and digitisation;
Amendment 321 #
2013/2129(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Deplores the planned reduction in funds for the ‘Europe for Citizens’ programme, and calls on the Commission to guarantee funding for national and transnational educational and cultural projects which raise awareness of the darker episodes in Europe’s history; calls on the Commission to avoid double standards when supporting projects concerning the 20th century dictatorships;
Amendment 333 #
2013/2129(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Stresses that the European Union should support cooperation between institutes and organisations which foster historical memory, and in this context calls on the Commission to ensure financial support for professional historical research to form the basis for future educational and cultural projects; calls for historical archives to be fully opened up to research historians; recommends, at the same time, that in the field of relations with third countries, the European External Action Service should, in addition to respect for human rights, also call for the documents of dictatorships to be accessible;
Amendment 335 #
2013/2129(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Stresses that the European Union should support cooperation between institutes and organisations which foster historical memory, and in this context calls on the Commission to ensure financial support for professional historical research to form the basis for future educational and cultural projects; calls for historical archives, particularly archives of repressive forces of the totalitarian dictatorships, to be fully opened up to research historians;
Amendment 351 #
2013/2129(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)
Paragraph 13 a (new)
13a. Calls for efforts to make education on totalitarianism in Europe more comprehensive, including education, research and remembrance on crimes committed by the totalitarian Communist regimes, which could not have been adequately addressed during the post-war decades;
Amendment 352 #
2013/2129(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 b (new)
Paragraph 13 b (new)
13b. Condemns the trivialization of totalitarianism through the public use of its symbols by the media, advertising and others;
Amendment 353 #
2013/2129(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 c (new)
Paragraph 13 c (new)
13c. Stresses that archives are essential for research and in turn research for the promotion of education and knowledge, therefore calls for a Statute of European Heritage for historical archives, including those of the former internal security services, secret police and intelligence agencies, which would provide a safeguard for the common history of the European Union;
Amendment 10 #
2013/2082(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas the right to freedom of religion or belief is a fundamental freedom of each human being, interrelated with other human rights and fundamental freedoms, as enshrined in Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights;
Amendment 12 #
2013/2082(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas the European Parliament has repeatedly called for an ambitious toolkit to advance the right to freedom of religion or belief as part of an efficient EU external policy, that recognizes that ensuring freedom of religion or belief and promoting tolerance and understanding are indispensable elements in reaching its overall external action goals;
Amendment 16 #
2013/2082(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas according to the standards of international law, countries have the duty to provide effective protection to all their citizens and all other inhabitants; whereas discrimination based on religion or belief still existsis on the rise in all regions of the world, and persons belonging to particular religious communities, including religious minorities, or non-believers, continue to be denied their human rights in many countries;
Amendment 26 #
2013/2082(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point b
Paragraph 1 – point b
(b) Violence against religious communities, with political, socio- economic or ideological roots, persists in many parts of the world; clear and prompt condemnation by the European Union of all forms of violence and discrimination should be a basic element of EU policy in the area of freedom of religion or belief.
Amendment 35 #
2013/2082(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point c
Paragraph 1 – point c
(c) The purpose and scope of the EU Guidelines should be to promote and protect freedom of religion or belief in third countries, to mainstream freedom of religion or belief in all the EU's external actions and human rights policies and to develop clear benchmarks, criteria, standards and a practical orientation in order to enhance the promotion of freedom of religion or belief in the work of civil servants and EU officials, and thus contribute to more coherence, effectiveness and visibility in the EU's external relations.
Amendment 161 #
2013/2041(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16 a (new)
Paragraph 16 a (new)
16 a. Highlights the need to further decrease the volume of factual knowledge taught in schools and to rather use learners' capacities to further increase the quality of their basic skills and transversal skills;
Amendment 181 #
2013/2041(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 a (new)
Paragraph 18 a (new)
18 a. Underlines the possibilities offered by the MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses) in terms of accessibility to high quality education for everyone, allowing more flexible and creative ways of learning, promoting equality of all learners and in terms of cutting costs of education on the side of learners as well as on the side of universities;
Amendment 190 #
2013/2041(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 a (new)
Paragraph 20 a (new)
20 a. Urges the Member States to further implement the existing European tools such as Europass, EQF, ECTS and ECVET to reinforce the common European Higher Education Area and in this way continue the Bologna reform; calls on the Commission to link the existing tools to the new mechanisms it proposes in this area;
Amendment 1 #
2013/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4
Citation 4
– having regard to the Preamble and to Articles 2, 12, and 24 of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, adopted in 1989, which refer to non- discrimination, the right of the child to be heard, and the protection of maternal, infant and child health, in addition to developing family planning education and services,
Amendment 2 #
2013/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4 a (new)
Citation 4 a (new)
- having regard to the Declaration of the Right of the Child1 which states that the child, by reason of his physical and mental immaturity, needs special safeguards and care, including appropriate legal protection, before as well as after birth, __________________ 1 Adopted by UN General Assembly Resolution 1386 (XIV) of 10 December 1959
Amendment 8 #
2013/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 18 c (new)
Citation 18 c (new)
- having regard to Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe (PACE) motion for resolution of 11 May 2010 on 'Sex-selective abortion – 'Gendercide'', inviting its Member States to 'condemn sex-selective abortion, wherever and whenever it occurs',
Amendment 9 #
2013/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 20 a (new)
Citation 20 a (new)
- having regard to Art. 168 (7) of the Treaty of the Functioning of the European Union stating that Union action shall respect the responsibilities of the Member States for the definition of their health policy and for the organisation and delivery of health services and medical care;
Amendment 10 #
2013/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 21
Citation 21
– having regard to the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, especially Article 10 (Freedom of thought, conscience and religion) recognizing the right to conscientious objection;
Amendment 12 #
2013/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 22 a (new)
Citation 22 a (new)
- having regard to ECJ ruling C-34/10 stating that as a matter of scientific fact a new human life begins at conception, and that the human embryo constitutes a precise stage in the development of the human body;
Amendment 13 #
2013/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 26
Citation 26
– having regard to its resolutions of 29 September 19944 on the outcome of the Cairo International Conference on Population and Development, and 4 July 19965 on the follow-up to that Conference, and the numerous reservations expressed by States especially on the issue of SRHR and abortion,
Amendment 15 #
2013/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 32 a (new)
Citation 32 a (new)
- having regard to its recommendation to the Council of 13 June 2013 on the draft EU Guidelines on the Promotion and Protection of Freedom of Religion or Belief (P7_TA(2013)027);
Amendment 22 #
2013/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A b (new)
Recital A b (new)
A b. whereas the Preamble of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights states: "Whereas recognition of the inherent dignity and of the equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family is the foundation of freedom, justice and peace in the world," and UDHR Article 3 states, "Everyone has the right to life, liberty and security of person.";
Amendment 73 #
2013/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Amendment 94 #
2013/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Notes that even though it is a competence of Member States to formulate and implement policies on SRHR, the EU can exercise policy-making competence in the area of public health and of non- discrimination, and support better implementation of sexual and reproductive rights;
Amendment 98 #
2013/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4 a. Asserts that, when implementing the specific clauses on the prohibition on coercion or compulsion in sexual and reproductive health matters agreed on at the Cairo International Conference on Population and Development, as well as the legally binding international human rights instruments, the EU acquis communautaire and the Union policy competencies in these matters, Union assistance should not be provided to any authority, organisation or programme which promotes, supports or participates in the management of any action which involves such human rights abuses as coercive abortion, forced sterilisation of women and men, determining foetal sex resulting in prenatal sex selection or infanticide;
Amendment 117 #
2013/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6 a. recalls that there exists no "human right to abortion" under international law, either by way of treaty obligation or under customary international law, and recalls that no international legally binding United Nations treaty can accurately be cited as establishing or recognizing a right to abortion;
Amendment 123 #
2013/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8 a. Urges the Member States to include the promotion of natural family planning methods in their public health policy;
Amendment 126 #
2013/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Underlines that in no case must abortion be promoted as a family planning method; and recalls that following internationally legally binding obligations every child regardless of sex has the right to appropriate legal protection before as well after birth;
Amendment 131 #
2013/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
Amendment 135 #
2013/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
10 a. recalls that abortion is not mentioned in any internationally binding UN human rights treaty;
Amendment 167 #
2013/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Stresses that sexuality education mustay include the teaching of natural family planning methods, the fight against stereotypes and prejudices, shed light on gender and sexual orientation discrimination, based on sex and structural barriers to substantive equality, as well as emphasise mutual respect and shared responsibility;
Amendment 173 #
2013/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading 4
Subheading 4
As regards STI prevention and treatment of STI and Post Abortion Stress Syndrome (PASS)
Amendment 209 #
2013/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 a (new)
Paragraph 23 a (new)
23 a. calls on EU delegations in developing countries to work with the governments of those countries to ensure that girl children enjoy their rights without discrimination based on their sex, inter alia by ending the unethical and discriminatory practices of prenatal sex selection, abortion of female foetuses, female infanticide, early forced marriage, female genital mutilation;
Amendment 212 #
2013/2040(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 b (new)
Paragraph 23 b (new)
23 b. Invites the Commission to maintain in its development priorities the access to quality, affordable, acceptable and accessible prenatal and maternal health care services, relational, affective and sexual education for boys and girls under the prior responsibility of their parents1, voluntary family planning including natural family planning methods, while combating sex based discrimination leading to sex-selective and involuntary abortions, forced sterilization and sexual violence, as well as ensuring the provision of prenatal and maternal health care supplies, including HIV prevention, treatment, care and support without discrimination; __________________ 1 "Parents have a prior right to choose the kind of education that shall be given to their children." Art 26.3 of UNGASS Resolution 217 A (III) of 10 December 1948 (Universal Declaration of Human Rights)
Amendment 2 #
2013/2007(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1
Citation 1
– having regard to Articles 2 and 3(3) of the Treaty on European Union,
Amendment 3 #
2013/2007(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
– having regard to Articles 21(1) and 22 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights,
Amendment 7 #
2013/2007(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 5 a (new)
Citation 5 a (new)
– having regard to Report 12423/2010, Resolution 1769/2010 and Recommendation 1944/2010 of the Council of Europe,
Amendment 33 #
2013/2007(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F a (new)
Recital F a (new)
Fa. whereas therefore in some countries and regions minority or regional languages exist which are endangered or dying out but which in other, neighbouring, countries are official, majority, languages;
Amendment 42 #
2013/2007(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H
Recital H
H. whereas linguistic diversity and respect for it makes a positive contribution to social cohesion by boosting self-esteem, and whereas linguistic diversity fosters access to culture and contributes to creativity and to the acquisition of intercultural skills, especially in border areas, as well as promoting cooperation between peoples and countries;
Amendment 43 #
2013/2007(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H a (new)
Recital H a (new)
Ha. whereas every integration process entails uniformisation, and this may have a particularly adverse impact on minority or endangered communities;
Amendment 50 #
2013/2007(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I a (new)
Recital I a (new)
Ia. whereas the official languages of the Member States may also be endangered languages in certain areas of the Union;
Amendment 53 #
2013/2007(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J a (new)
Recital J a (new)
Ja. whereas communities that speak endangered languages are still subject to a good deal of prejudice and suspicion in society;
Amendment 54 #
2013/2007(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J b (new)
Recital J b (new)
Jb. whereas linguistic, cultural and ethnic assimilation bears much of the blame for causing endangered languages to die out;
Amendment 55 #
2013/2007(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J c (new)
Recital J c (new)
Jc. whereas teaching in people’s mother tongue is the most effective;
Amendment 56 #
2013/2007(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J d (new)
Recital J d (new)
Jd. whereas endangered languages can only be saved from extinction by systematically ensuring the institutional opportunity to gain a mastery of the language as a mother tongue and to provide fully-fledged education in it;
Amendment 57 #
2013/2007(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K
Recital K
K. whereas if children who are biliare taught their mother tonguale from the start, and in parallel therewith learn an official language, they have a natural skill that they can use to learn more languages later on, and whereas linguistic pluralism is an advantage for young Europeans;
Amendment 75 #
2013/2007(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 (new)
Paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 (new)
Calls on the governments of the Member States to condemn practices which, by means of linguistic discrimination or enforced or concealed assimilation, have in the past been – or are now – directed against the identity and language use of endangered linguistic communities or their cultural institutions;
Amendment 85 #
2013/2007(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Calls on the Commission and the governments and regional authorities of the Member States to establish programmes to promote tolerance of endangered linguistic or ethnic communities, respect for their linguistic and cultural values and respect for those communities in society;
Amendment 86 #
2013/2007(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 b (new)
Paragraph 1 b (new)
1b. Draws the attention of the governments and regional authorities of the Member States to the fact that the survival of an endangered language is tantamount to the survival and development of the community which uses it and that, accordingly, for the purpose of formulating policies to protect it, account should be taken not only of cultural and educational aspects but also of the economic and social dimensions;
Amendment 100 #
2013/2007(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Takes the view that the European Union should support a language policyies that enables children to acquire two mother tongues, in addition to their mother tongue, to acquire a similar command of a second language from the very earliest age; points out that such a programme would, as all linguists maintainics demonstrates, help children learn additional languages later on, and that it would offer speakers of traditional languages practical support in revitalising intergenerational language transmission in areas in which it is dwindling; considers that it should also be made possible for users of the dominant majority language to attain a perfect command of a second language;
Amendment 119 #
2013/2007(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Notes the Commission’s multilingualism programmes; takes the view that promoters of projects connected with minority languages must be able to take advantage of the opportunities they offer, and, given that language communities fighting for the survival of endangered languages often consist of small groups of people, urges the Commission not to deem programmes involving these communities ineligible for funding on the grounds of low levels of financial commitment and considers that, in order to protect these languages better, the Commission should also apply positive discrimination from the material point of view;
Amendment 122 #
2013/2007(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Takes the view that a language revitalisation policy is a long-term effort that must be based on a diverse, coordinated schedule of activities in various fields such as the media, the arts, education (including pre-school education) and higher education), research and cultural life and in all areas of public life; takes the view that effective support should be provided for the drawing-up of such schedules, for exchanges of good practice among language communities, and for the introduction of assessment procedures;
Amendment 129 #
2013/2007(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Considers that, in order to revitalise languages, it is likewise important that languages which have become peripheral and whose use is largely confined to family circles should have the right to be used publicly in society;
Amendment 138 #
2013/2007(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Calls on the Commission to provide constant support, via its various programmes, for transnational networks and European-level initiatives and activities that are designed to promote endangered languages, and emphasises that active participation is needed in order to ensure that UNESCO’s Atlas of the World’s Languages in Danger is rendered more complete and remains a permanent fixture;
Amendment 145 #
2013/2007(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Calls on the Commission to establish a monitoring service of its own to observe, as it unfolds, the language rights situation in the European Union Member States, which is an aspect of human rights, the state of endangered languages, the number of speakers that they have, their rootedness in society and their educational and cultural institutions that help to preserve such languages;
Amendment 146 #
2013/2007(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 b (new)
Paragraph 6 b (new)
6b. Calls on the Commission to take measures to secure the signature and ratification of the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages (1992) and the Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities (1995) by those Member States which have not yet taken this action;
Amendment 147 #
2013/2007(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 c (new)
Paragraph 6 c (new)
6c. Calls on the Commission to continue the research which began with the Euromosaic study, to survey positive examples and best practices in Europe and to recommend them to the governments of the Member States for the purpose of application;
Amendment 148 #
2013/2007(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 d (new)
Paragraph 6 d (new)
6d. Calls on the Commission to draft a legally binding directive concerning the protection of endangered languages in the Union;
Amendment 150 #
2013/2007(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Calls on the Commission to support both pilot projects that help promote the use of endangered languages and action plans drawn up by the individual language communities themselves;
Amendment 12 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 13 a (new)
Citation 13 a (new)
- having regard to the Foreign Affairs Council Conclusions on the European Neighbourhood Policy adopted on June 20th, 2011 at its 3101st meeting
Amendment 14 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 13 b (new)
Citation 13 b (new)
- having regard to the Foreign Affairs Council Conclusions on the European Endowment for Democracy adopted on December 1st 2011, at its 3130th meeting and the Declaration on the establishment of a European Endowment for Democracy agreed in COREPER on 15th of December 2011
Amendment 25 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 28 a (new)
Citation 28 a (new)
- having regard to the European Parliament resolution of 20 January 2011 on the situation of Christians in the context of freedom of religion1; __________________ 1 Texts adopted, P7_TA(2011)0021
Amendment 28 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 29 a (new)
Citation 29 a (new)
- having regard to the Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions from 25 October 2011 entitled "A renewed EU strategy 2011-14 for Corporate Social Responsibility";
Amendment 29 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 29 b (new)
Citation 29 b (new)
- having regard to the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights
Amendment 96 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Regrets that selective justice frequently manifests itself in new and transitional democracies under the guise of the rule of law and war on corruption; regrets that selective justice has become little more than a means to seek political revenge and to settle accounts with political dissenters by intimidating and marginalising opposition, especially in the run-up to elections; remains concerned about the crime allegations and politically motivated charges against members of the opposition in Ukraine, and urges the Ukrainian authorities to put an end to the ongoing harassment of the opposition which is a serious obstacle in the country's efforts to guarantee rule of law and democratic values;
Amendment 104 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Reiterates its strong support for the International Criminal Court (ICC) in the fight against impunity for the most serious crimes of international concern; calls on the EU and its Member States to continue their political, diplomatic, logistical and financial backing of the ICC and other international criminal tribunals, including the ad hoc international tribunals for the former Yugoslavia and Rwanda, the Special Court for Sierra Leone, the Extraordinary Chambers in the Courts of Cambodia, and the Special Tribunal for Lebanon; regrets that without UN Security Council agreement, a referral of Syria to ICC is impossible
Amendment 180 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 35
Paragraph 35
35. Emphasises the mutually reinforcing nature of human rights and democracy, as it is through respect for human rights that societies create the free political space needed for peaceful democratic contestation; welcomes the decision to create European Endowment for Democracy expressed in: 2011 in Foreign Affairs Council Conclusions on the European Neighbourhood Policy adopted on June 20th, 2011, the Foreign Affairs Council Conclusions on the European Endowment for Democracy adopted on December 1st 2011 and the Declaration on the establishment of a European Endowment for Democracy agreed in COREPER on 15th of December 2011, which with the support and input expressed in European Parliament recommendation of 29 March 2012 to the Council on the modalities for the possible establishment of a European Endowment for Democracy (EED) (2011/2245(INI)), led to the establishment of European Endowment for Democracy in following year 2012, to support pro-democratic agents of change in pre-transition and in democratic transition countries
Amendment 194 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 38 a (new)
Paragraph 38 a (new)
38a. welcomes measures undertaken and plans developed in 2011 by UE institutions and Member States aimed at creation of a more coherent and coordinated policy supporting Corporate Social Responsibility among others for human rights in the world and implementation of 2011 UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights
Amendment 202 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 40
Paragraph 40
40. Reiterates its concern, however, with the persistently disappointing lack of progress in a number of human rights dialogues, and the lack of transparent benchmarks to genuinely assess improvements or deterioration in human rights; notes the continued EU difficulties to negotiate improved modalities for the dialogueits human rights dialogues in particular with China and Russia; calls on the newly appointed EUSR on Human Rights to inject new momentum into these and other dialogues;
Amendment 209 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 41
Paragraph 41
41. Remains disappointed that there has been no systematic involvement of Parliament in the assessments of the human rights dialogue, including for Russia and China; calls for Parliament's access to these assessments to be formalised, and recalls that the EU Guidelines on Human Rights Dialogues state that ‘civil society will be involved in this assessment exercise’;
Amendment 231 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 46
Paragraph 46
46. Recommends, in order to enhance the credibility of the human rights clause and the predictability of EU action, that the clause be further developed to include political and legal procedural mechanisms to be used in the event of a request for the suspension of bilateral cooperation on the grounds of repeated and/or systematic human rights violations in breach of international law;
Amendment 232 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 47
Paragraph 47
47. Notes that the EU is developing a human rights monitoring mechanism to be included as part of new partnership and cooperation agreements, and other trade agreements, with a number of countries; is concerned that these monitoring mechanisms are not ambitious enough and not clearly defined, compromising the EU's treaty commitment to the promotion of human rights and democracy in the world;
Amendment 235 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 48
Paragraph 48
48. Reiterates its recommendation that the EU adopt a more systematic policy on EU sanctionconsistent and efficient policy on EU sanctions and restrictive measures, providing clear criteria for when restrictive measuresthese are to be applied and what type of sanctions should be applied, and including transparent benchmarks for their lifting of sanction; calls on the Council to ensure that there are no double standards when deciding on restrictive measures or sanctions and that these are applied regardless of political, economic and security interests;
Amendment 263 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 57
Paragraph 57
57. Regrets that persecution and marginalisation of human rights defenders remain a widespread tendency in China, Russparticular China, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan, Vietnam, North Korea, Russia, Saudi Arabia and all other countries that still mistake high human rights standards for an imposition of the EU, the UN and global human rights organisations; regrets that disbarred lawyers in China and politically persecuted journalists and media workers are regarded as an internal affair;
Amendment 275 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 64
Paragraph 64
64. Welcomes the assessment by human rights organisations that the use of the death penalty in 2011 broadly confirms the global trend towards abolition; regrets, however, that there was a significant increase in executions in Iran, Iraq and Saudi Arabia; expresses serious disappointment at the refusal of China to disclose credible information about its use of death penalty and executions that, according to Amnesty International, number in the thousands; welcomes the abolition of the death penalty in the US state of Illinois but regrets that the United States continues to execute people despite being the only G8 country to do so in 2011; recalls with concern that Belarus is the only European country to continue use the death penalty; urges the EU and its Member States consistently to bring this issue up in their dialogues with these countrieswelcomes the abolition of the death penalty in the US state of Illinois but regrets that the United States continues to execute people despite being the only G8 country to do so in 2011;
Amendment 280 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 64 a (new)
Paragraph 64 a (new)
Amendment 305 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 72 a (new)
Paragraph 72 a (new)
72a. Emphasises that traditional national minority communities have specific needs different from other minority groups and there is a need to safeguard equal treatment of these minorities with regard to education, healthcare, social services and other public services, furthermore to promote in all areas of economic, social, political and cultural life full and effective equality between persons belonging to a national minority and those belonging to the majority;
Amendment 356 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 81
Paragraph 81
81. Remains deeply concerned that discrimination based on religion or belief continues and has increased in many regions of the world, and that persons belonging to particular religious communities, including religious minorities, continue to be denied their human rights; is particularly concerned by the situation in China where individuals who practise their religion outside officially sanctioned channels, including Christians, Muslims, Buddhists and Falun Gong practitioners, often face persecution; urges China to ratify the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) as it has promised; urges the Chinese authorities to suspend and subsequently amend, through genuinely consultative processes with Tibetans, the policies that most negatively impact Tibetan Buddhism, culture and tradition;
Amendment 364 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 81 a (new)
Paragraph 81 a (new)
Amendment 368 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 81 b (new)
Paragraph 81 b (new)
81b. Is particularly concerned by the situation in China where individuals who practise their religion outside officially sanctioned channels, including Christians, Muslims, Buddhists systematically face persecution, despite the constitutional guarantee for freedom of religion in China; further calls on the Chinese governments to put an end to its campaign of ill-treatment and harassment directed at Falun Gong practitioners who face long prison terms and re-education through labour facilities for exercising their right to freedom of religion and belief, aimed at forcing them to renounce their spiritual beliefs, despite China's ratification of the UN Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment;
Amendment 369 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 81 c (new)
Paragraph 81 c (new)
81c. Urges China to ratify the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) as it has promised, as well as to respect all its human rights related international obligations and constitutional provisions for religious freedom for all its citizens;
Amendment 370 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 81 d (new)
Paragraph 81 d (new)
81d. Urges the Chinese authorities to suspend and subsequently amend, through genuinely consultative processes with Tibetans, the policies that are destructive to Tibetan Buddhism, culture and tradition and instead allow Tibetans to preserve, practice and develop their religious traditions; it further urges the authorities to stop imposing restrictions on religious education, training of clergy, day-to-day management of monasteries and nunneries, and on the conduct of religious practice and festivals, as methods part of official systematic efforts to eradicate religious belief;
Amendment 392 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 83
Paragraph 83
83. Stresses that international human rights law recognises freedom of religion or belief regardless of registration status, so registration should not be a mandatory precondition for practising one's religion; points out with concern, furthermore, that in China monks and nunsall individuals wishing to practice a religion, including the five official religions - Buddhist, Taoist, Muslim, Roman Catholic and Protestant - are required to register with the Government, and must operate under Government-controlled management boards, and that this interferes with their religious autonomy and restricts their activity; further notes with concern that unregistered religious groups, including house churches and Falun Gong practitioners, face different degrees of ill- treatment, restricting their activities and gatherings, confiscating their property and even facing detention and imprisonment;
Amendment 396 #
2012/2145(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 83 a (new)
Paragraph 83 a (new)
83a. Notes with concern the low level of respect for religious freedom in many countries, and in some cases increasing restrictions of religious freedom leading to societal intolerance in countries such as Nigeria, Eritrea, Iran, Iraq, North Korea; further urges governments to stop using blasphemy laws to restrict the rights of religious minorities, as in the case of Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, and to stop the use of extremism charges to target minority religions as in Russia
Amendment 68 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital I
Recital I
I. wWhereas the vasTibet aAutonomous provinces of TibetRegion and the Xinjiang are vital for the PRC from the viewpoint of ‘unity of the countUyghur Autonomous Region have become increasingly important for China's regional, military’ and because of their great strategic, military and economic importanceonomic ambitions and therefore are seen as core issues of 'territorial integrity' by the current Chinese Government;
Amendment 118 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital O a (new)
Recital O a (new)
Oa. Whereas the rising tensions over the disputed islands and overlapping and conflicting claims exist in the East Asia's maritime areas;
Amendment 189 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
Amendment 210 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
(a) Acknowledges that through its opening to the world and increased engagement with the international community in the past three decades, China's human rights stance has moved closer to internationally accepted standards, seen through the country's signing of several international human rights agreements, such as the International Covenant on Social, Economic and Cultural Rights (ICSECR), but also apparent in official statements of Chinese leaders as well as in increasing scholarly interest and analysis on China's approach to human rights; deplores however the fact that China's embracing of international norms has been selective, and urgently calls for further and increased effort to bring genuine progress in human rights in practice, furthermore it urges the Chinese government to respect its international obligations as well as to ratify the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR).
Amendment 230 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
Amendment 243 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 a (new)
Paragraph 10 a (new)
(a) Recognizes the significant efforts made by the Chinese Government for the socio-economic development of Tibet and Xinjiang aimed at reducing unemployment and increasing the quality of living of the people; however remains deeply concerned about the devastating impact such efforts have had on the everyday lives, the traditional livelihoods of the nomad communities and the environment of the region; urges the Chinese Government to act in a politically responsible way by meaningfully engaging the Tibetan and Uyghur peoples in governance issues, including resource management and economic development priorities, by including their valuable local knowledge into the drafting and implementation of development policies working in partnership, considering that such local knowledge is indispensable for the sustainable development of the region, it further calls on the Chinese authorities to respect rather than dilute the rich cultural heritage of the Tibetan and Uyghur people, including their language and religion; strongly asserts that the Chinese Government will not achieve lasting stability in Tibet or Xinjiang among Chinese, Tibetan and Uyghur peoples through forcible assimilation, cultural destruction or repressive police and security methods;
Amendment 247 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Stresses that, notwithstanding a harsh policy of repression, a religious revival is taking place in China which is demonstrated by the reopening or reconstruction of countless places of worship; urges the Chinese authorities to replafrain from policies and practices their ineffective policy of controlling religion with one offering real freedom of reat curtail any citizen's fundamental right to freedom of religion and belief in accordance with its own Constitution as well as its international obligations;
Amendment 258 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. WishCalls on the Chinese authorities to seegrant the flourishing Protestant house churches and underground Catholic churches granted official recognition by the Chinese State as well; strongly condemns all attempts by the authorities to deprive these non-registered churches of their fundamental right of freedom of religion; ; reminds therefore that international human rights law recognizes freedom of religion or belief regardless of registration status, so registration should not be a mandatory precondition for practicing one's religion, strongly condemns all attempts by the authorities to deprive these non-registered churches of their fundamental right of freedom of religion, by imposing the requirement to operate under government-controlled management boards and by confiscating their property, and even using detention and imprisonment in efforts to silence them, which interferes with their religious autonomy and seriously restricts their activity;
Amendment 265 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 c (new)
Paragraph 12 c (new)
(c) Acknowledges efforts made in the area of controlling and carefully applying the death penalty in China, but remains concerned that the Chinese government still maintains its policy of not releasing details on the prisoners reportedly executed annually, keeping information on the death penalty a state secret, further urges the Chinese authorities to stop the politicized use of the death penalty and to ensure procedural safeguards in its legal system guaranteeing the protection of those sentenced to death, including the right to a fair trial conform to international standards;
Amendment 268 #
Amendment 270 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12 h (new)
Paragraph 12 h (new)
(h) Welcomes the increasing contacts between the PRC and Taiwan; stresses that the improvement in Cross-Strait relations is still seriously undermined by PRC's missiles aimed at Taiwan and China's international isolation of Taiwan; calls on China and the EU to respect Taiwan's right to meaningful participation in international organisations, as endorsed by the Council's declaration 9486/09 of 8 May 2009;
Amendment 298 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 d (new)
Paragraph 15 d (new)
(d) Due to the European Union's significant interests in the security and stability of East Asia, calls upon all parties concerned (China, Japan and Taiwan) to demonstrate restraint and to take steps to calm the situation; urges all parties concerned to settle disputes peacefully in a spirit of cooperation and in respect of international law, in particular the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea;
Amendment 321 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Appreciates the Chinese leadership's acknowledgement of the serious criticism of its imbalanced, raw-material-centred African policy during the Forum of Chinese-African Cooperation (FOCAC), held on 20 July 2012 in Beijing, which is shown by its current open promotion of a diversification of its activities on the continent; points to the obvious ethical and strategic flaws of China's non-intervention principle in Africa's domestic policies in cases of popular resistance against repressive regimes (e.g., Sudan), or in cases of regime change (e.g., Libya); notesis concerned that the increasing Chinese presence in Africa has led to grave social tensions, but welcomes the fact that Chinese companies have expressed their willingness to place greater emphasis on social responsibility in their African activities;
Amendment 37 #
2012/2130(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H
Recital H
H. whereas the scope of Article 2 TEU is not restricted by the limCharter does not apply to every situation of Article 51(1) of the Charter and the scope of Article 7 TEU is not limited to the policy areas covered byan alleged violation of fundamental rights as according to Article 51(1) it applies to Member States only when they are implementing EU law, and whereas as a consequence the EU can also act in the event of a breach of, or a clears repeatedly stated by Vice-President Viviane Reding in the former replies to MEPs when raisk of a breach of, the common values in areas falling under Member State's competencing concrete breaches of fundamental rights in Member States;
Amendment 160 #
2012/2130(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital BS a (new)
Recital BS a (new)
BSa. whereas the Hungarian government adopted the Act CCIII of 2011 (currently Act XXXVI of 2013) on the elections of the Members of Parliament of Hungary, which allows minority representatives for the first time to gain a seat in the Parliament, thus finally assures the political representation of minorities, requested over almost for two decades; and whereas the adopted Act CLXXIX of 2011 on the Rights of Minorities recognises and guarantees rights to its thirteen recognised nationalities and their members in the main areas of interest for the protection of their identity - education, culture, private and public use of the mother tongue, access to media and participation - and aims to improve and strengthen the available institutional arrangements for nationality self- government in these areas; and whereas in its Opinion CDL-AD(2012)011 the Venice Commission confirms that "Hungary has continued to pay particular attention to the promotion and protection of minority rights and to make specific efforts to ensure protection and preservation of the ethnic, cultural and linguistic identity, traditions and cultural heritage of its nationalities";
Amendment 11 #
2012/2088(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point e
Paragraph 1 – point e
(e) in order to achieve these objectives, the EUSR, while acting under the authority of the High Representative, should be granted a strong, independent and flexible mandate not defined by narrow and specific thematic responsibilities but rather allowing the EUSR to act swiftly and effectively; in line with the actions and priorities set out in the Action Plan, the EUSR for HR should also address different horizontal issues contributing to more effective and coherent action in EU external policies; the scope of the EUSR's mandate should be fully in line with the principles of universality and indivisibility of human rights and fundamental freedoms, and towith the policy objectives laid down in Article 21 of TEU and should cover, inter alia, strengthening democracy and institution building, international justice, international humanitarian law, including, inter alia, abolition of the death penalty, human rights defenders, freedom of religion or belief, freedom of expressionassembly and expression, traditional minority and indigenous rights, women's rights, child protection, gender issues, as well as persons with disabilities, as well as women, peace and security;
Amendment 26 #
2012/2088(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point k
Paragraph 1 – point k
(k) the EUSR for HR, while implementing his/her mandate, should cooperate with NGOs, expertsrepresentatives of the local, regional and national civil society, NGOs, experts, as well as regional and international organisations acting in the field of protection of human rights and democracy;
Amendment 2 #
2012/2062(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4 a (new)
Citation 4 a (new)
- having regard to the Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions from 25 October 2011 entitled 'A renewed EU strategy 2011-14 for Corporate Social Responsibility' (COM(2011) 681),
Amendment 4 #
2012/2062(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4 b (new)
Citation 4 b (new)
- having regard to the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights,
Amendment 5 #
2012/2062(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4 c (new)
Citation 4 c (new)
Amendment 6 #
2012/2062(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 4 d (new)
Citation 4 d (new)
- having regard to its resolution of 20 January 2011 on the situation of Christians in the context of freedom of religion1, __________________ 1 Texts adopted, P7_TA(2011)0021
Amendment 8 #
2012/2062(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 12 a (new)
Citation 12 a (new)
- having regard to the Foreign Affairs Council Conclusions on the European Endowment for Democracy adopted on 1 December 2011, at its 3130th meeting and the Declaration on the establishment of a European Endowment for Democracy agreed in COREPER on 15 December 2011,
Amendment 9 #
2012/2062(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 12 b (new)
Citation 12 b (new)
- having regard to the European Parliament recommendation of 29 March 2012 to the Council on the modalities for the possible establishment of a European Endowment for Democracy (EED),
Amendment 10 #
2012/2062(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 12 c (new)
Citation 12 c (new)
- having regard to the recent establishment of the European Endowment for Democracy (EED),
Amendment 15 #
2012/2062(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas the EU has developed an extensive toolbox of instruments as a policy framework to support this obligation, including human rights guidelines, a global financial instrument on human rights and democracy (the European Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights (EIDHR)), a requirement for all external financial instruments – such as the Development Cooperation Instrument (DCI), the Instrument for Stability (IfS), the European Neighbourhood Instrument (ENI), the Pre-Accession Instrument (IPA) and the Partnership Instrument (PI) – to promote human rights and democracy within their remit, establishment of the European Endowment for Democracy (EED) and appointment of the new EU Special Representative for Human Rights, Council declarations and conclusions, statements by the High Representative, EU démarches, EU sanctions in the event of severe human rights violations and, more recently, human rights country strategies;
Amendment 25 #
2012/2062(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas the events of the ‘Arab Spring’ as well as experience gained with countries of the Eastern Partnership both during and in pre-transition period have demonstrated the need to reshape the Neighbourhood Policy in order to give higher priority to dialogue with societies, which is indispensable to democratisation and transition processes; whereas this renewed policy should aim at further engaging partner countries in deeper democratic reforms and respect for fundamental rights on the basis of the ‘more for more’ approach and of mutual accountability between partner countries, the EU and its Member States;
Amendment 68 #
2012/2062(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11 a (new)
Paragraph 11 a (new)
11 a. Underlines the role of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in the field of Human Rights as epressed in the EC communication on renewed EU strategy 2011-14 for Corporate Social Responsibility referring among others to the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights; stresses the need of inclusion of CSR to EU human rights strategies;
Amendment 105 #
2012/2062(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Stresses that human rights and democracy objectives necessarily require specific, measurable, achievable, time- bound criteria aimed at assessing the level of respect for fundamental freedoms, human rights and rule of law; considers, in this connection, that the EU should make full use of the relevant instruments and expertise of the UN and of the Council of Europe including implementation of the European Convention on Human Rights as a viable element of such HR and Democracy single benchmark catalogue for the member countries of Council of Europe, and should clearly differentiate its political conclusions from a legal and technical evaluation;
Amendment 112 #
2012/2062(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Recalls the policy lessons learned from the Arab Spring as well as experience gained with countries of the Eastern Partnership both during and in pre- transition period , including the need to reverse previous policies focused mainly on relations with authorities and to establish an effective partnership between the EU and the governments and civil societies of partner countries, in this regard underlines the important role of the newly established EED both in EU neighbourhood countries and in other regions; stresses the importance of creating programmes and supporting projects that allow for contact between civil societies in the EU and in third countries; calls on the Commission and the EEAS to use the model of an institutionalised civil society consultation mechanism set out in the EU- South Korea Free Trade Agreement as a starting-point for the development of even more inclusive mechanisms for all agreements; understands the core of the EU's new approach as strengthening societies by means of active domestic accountability so as to support their capacity to take part in public decision- making and democratic governance processes; believes that this domestic accountability should become a central pillar of the external financial instruments currently under review;
Amendment 114 #
2012/2062(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 a (new)
Paragraph 23 a (new)
23 a. Notes that although the events of the Arab Spring were expected to bring pro- democratic transformation, in many cases they resulted in the deterioration of the freedoms and rights of religious minorities; therefore strongly condemns all acts of violence against Christian, Jewish, Muslim and other religious communities, as well as all kinds of discrimination and intolerance based on religion and belief against religious people, apostates and non believers; stresses once again, in line with its earlier resolutions, that the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion is a fundamental human right;
Amendment 119 #
2012/2062(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Stresses that these events have demonstrated wilful blindness on the part of the EU to the realities of Arab Spring societies, including the situation of young people in those countries, which suggests the need to create exchange programmes or open up European programmes to Arab Spring youth, and for civil-society-based reflection on the causes and consequences of the lack of awareness in relation to these societies; points out that such reflection could be enhanced by the establishment of a Euro-Arab Youth Convention; underlines that strong bonds with civil society in the countries of the Eastern Partnership fostered among others by the exchange programmes, traineeships in EU's and EU Member State's institutions and scholarships at European universities are indispensable for future development and consolidation of democracy in those countries;
Amendment 122 #
2012/2062(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24 a (new)
Paragraph 24 a (new)
24 a. Stresses a crucial role of the National Human Rights Institutions and cooperation of those bodies in EU and Neighbourhood Countries; encourages initiatives aimed at transferring of good practices, coordinating and animating cooperation between UE and Neighbourhood NHRI such as the programme for cooperation between Ombudsmen from Eastern Partnership countries 2009-2013 that was jointly set up by the Polish and French Ombudsmen with a view to enhancing the ability of Ombudsmen's offices, government bodies and non-governmental organisations in Eastern Partnership countries to protect individual rights and build democratic states based on the rule of law; stresses the need for such action to be coordinated within the EU and for the EU institutions to draw on the experience gained in connection therewith; underlines the need of encouraging creation of NHRI in the Neighbourhood Countries that do not have them in their legal systems;
Amendment 142 #
2012/2062(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30
Paragraph 30
30. Recommends that Parliament improve its own procedures in relation to human rights issues, including through the revision of its Guidelines for EP Interparliamentary Delegations on promoting human rights and democracy; is of the opinion that each standing delegation of Parliament should have a Member, selected among its Chair and Vice-Chairs, specifically tasked with monitoring the human rights portfolio on the region or country concerned, and that the persons designated should report regularly to Parliament's Subcommittee on Human Rights; stresses the need for a revision of the model for the plenary debates on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law in order to allow for more frequent debates with broader participation by Members, a greater degree of responsiveness to human rights violations and other unforeseen events on the ground, and greater potential for follow-up to past debates and resolutions; stresses the need for better utilisation of the potential of the Sakharov Prize Network by the EP and other EU institutions;
Amendment 48 #
2011/2294(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Underlines the complementary role of state, private and religious forms of higher education across Europe;
Amendment 60 #
2011/2294(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Endorses the Commission's initiative to launch a multi-dimensional tool for the classification and ranking of higher education institutions based on characteristics such as the quality of teaching, regional engagement and knowledge transfer;
Amendment 80 #
2011/2294(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7a. Emphasises the role of promoting democratic values, stressing the importance of acquiring a solid knowledge of European integration, and understanding former totalitarian regimes of Europe as common history;
Amendment 83 #
2011/2294(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Points out that public funding is of primary importance for higher education; emphasises that increased investment in higher education in Europe is crucial to overcoming the current economic crisis and fostering smart, sustainable and inclusive growth; calls on the Member States and higher education institutions to develop innovative funding mechanisms to complement public funding without increasing the pressure on households, as the latter could lead for example to lower participation, to undesirable shifts in the social make-up of the student population and to the creation or exacerbation of imbalances in mobility flows between Member States or regions;
Amendment 97 #
2011/2294(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Reiterates that higher education has the potential to promote social inclusion and upward social mobility; calls on Member States and higher education institutions to widen access and foster study success for students from all social backgrounds, persons living with disabilities, students belonging to national, ethnic or linguistic minorities and to recognise multiculturalism and multilingualism as a fundamental value of the EU that needs to be fostered;
Amendment 101 #
2011/2294(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 a (new)
Paragraph 9 a (new)
9a. Calls on the Member States to pay increased attention and to support higher education and institutions serving traditional national, ethnic or linguistic minorities with special focus on endangered cultures and languages;
Amendment 125 #
2011/2294(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Encourages higher education institutions to engage more intensively with their regions and establish collaborative actions with local councilregional governments, local councils, public bodies, non-governmental organisations and small and medium-sized enterprises to enhance regional development;
Amendment 128 #
2011/2294(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 a (new)
Paragraph 14 a (new)
14a. Calls on the Member States, their central and regional authorities, to include and to support in cross-border cooperation higher education institutions;
Amendment 132 #
2011/2294(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Welcomes the Commission's support for ‘Knowledge Alliances’ and ‘Sector Skills Alliances’ in which higher education institutions and businesses jointly develop curricula to address skills shortages; calls upon businesses and entrepreneurs, including small and medium-sized enterprises, actively to develop partnerships with higher education institutions, by providing high-quality internships for students and lecturers, by capitalising on the general transferable skills of lecturers;
Amendment 136 #
2011/2294(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Emphasises the need to develop mechanisms and management strategies that facilitate the transfer of innovative ideas and research results into business and allow business to provide input to higher education regarding current and expected needs for skills and innovations, taking into account best practices from all over the world;
Amendment 149 #
2011/2294(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 a (new)
Paragraph 18 a (new)
18a. Underlines the importance of sport in the education process; calls on Member States to support and encourage sport activity among students and to increase support for grass-root sport programmes;
Amendment 153 #
2011/2294(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. ERecalls the target that by the year 2020, 20% of Europe's graduates should be mobile and emphasises the importance of language skills as a prerequisite for increased mobility within the EHEA and employability; supports the development of language teaching;
Amendment 168 #
2011/2294(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Welcomes the Commission's proposal to create a financial instrument to help students secure funding for a Masters degree outside their home Member State, regardless of their social background and financial possibilities; demands fair and transparent access to the scheme throughout the Member States;
Amendment 172 #
2011/2294(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 a (new)
Paragraph 22 a (new)
22a. Calls on the Commission to elaborate a professional and financial action plan to diminish these disparities;
Amendment 174 #
2011/2294(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Reiterates that higher education is a common European public good and that Member States, regional governments and local authorities and the EU share a common responsibility in developing and strengthening the EHEA and the Bologna Process;
Amendment 178 #
2011/2294(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Endorses the Commission's proposal to increase the EU budget available for education, training and research in the next multiannual financial framework, given the fact that investment in education, training and research is key to reaching the EU 2020 targets and achieving smart, sustainable and inclusive growth in Europe;
Amendment 3 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 7 a (new)
Citation 7 a (new)
- having regard to the Council Conclusions on intolerance, discrimination and violence on the basis of religion or belief in its 3069th Foreign Affairs Council meeting in Brussels, 21 February 2011,
Amendment 7 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 12 a (new)
Citation 12 a (new)
- having regard to the Partnership agreement between the members of the African, Caribbean and Pacific Group of States of the one part, and the European Community and its Member States, of the other part, signed in Cotonou on 23 June 2000 and its latter revisions in February 2005 and June 2010,
Amendment 10 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 13 a (new)
Citation 13 a (new)
- having regard to the Foreign Affairs Council Conclusions on the European Neighbourhood Policy adopted on 20 June 2011 at its 3101st meeting,
Amendment 11 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 13 b (new)
Citation 13 b (new)
- having regard to its resolution of 26 October 2011 on Tibet, in particular self- immolation by nuns and monks1, _______________ 1 Texts adopted, P7_TA_PROV(2011)0474.
Amendment 12 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 14 a (new)
Citation 14 a (new)
- having regard to the Foreign Affairs Council Conclusions on the European Endowment for Democracy adopted on 1 December 2011 at its 3130th meeting and the Declaration on the establishment of a European Endowment for Democracy agreed in COREPER on 15 December 2011,
Amendment 27 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F
Recital F
F. whereas lessons must be learned from the European Union's past failures in promoting transition in countries with authoritarian regimes in particular where stability and security concerns have compromised a principled policy of promoting democracy and human rights, showing the need to redefine current EU instruments on the matter and establishing new tools like the European Endowment for Democracy - an expert, proactive, lightly structured and thus cost- , decision- and response-effective tool at EU arm's length, capable of utilising in- depth knowledge and insights on the local situation in the countries of impact, through direct cooperation with local partners and twinning European and local partners, utilising directly or through re-granting resources of the EU, Member States and beyond, to support civil society capacity for democratic opposition and political actors striving for democratic change in non-democratic countries and countries in transition, in a mutually safe, deniable if necessary, manner;
Amendment 34 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Stresses that for the European Union (EU) to be a credible actor in external relations, it must act consistently, in accordance with Treaty and acquis obligations and avoid double standards between its human rights policy and other external policies, between internal and external policies, and in the conduct of its relations with third countries combining this approach with the challenge of developing the human rights Country Strategy Papers and implementing action plans, which must also cover democratisation, reflecting the specificity of each country as regards impact, and making full use of the EU's relevant instruments;
Amendment 55 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Welcomes the development of Country Strategy Papers on human rights and stresses that these should also cover democratisation; calls for their prompt implementation through action plans to complement these strategies, based on analyses of the situation and needs in each country and making full use of the EU's relevant instruments; reiterates its call for the Country Strategy Papers to be made available to Parliament; stresses the need for consistency and avoidance of double standards;
Amendment 59 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Emphasises the crucial role played by civil society in the protection and promotion of democracy and human rights; welcomes the establishment of the European Endowment for Democracy as a means to effectively support development of civil society and its capacity for democratic opposition in non- democratic and in-transition countries; encourages the EEAS and the EED Working Group established under its auspices in cooperation with Member States and EU institutions, to intensify efforts to finalize a legal framework for the EED during the 2012 Danish presidency and to develop its operational readiness; stresses that EU contacts with civil society should be built on a genuine partnership, including systematic and regular dialogue on an equal footing;
Amendment 60 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Emphasises the crucial role played by civil society in the protection and promotion of democracy and human rights; stresses that EU contacts with civil society should be built on a genuine partnership, including systematic and regular dialogue on an equal footing; in this respect welcomes initiatives such as, for example, the Eastern Partnership-Civil Society Forum set up to promote contacts among civil society organisations and facilitate their dialogue with public authorities, and encourages EU institutions to take greater advantage of the recommendations and declarations developed during the first 2009 EP-CSF in Brussels, Belgium, 2010 in Berlin, Germany and 2011 in Poznań, Poland;
Amendment 64 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6 a. Stresses the need for consistency and avoidance of double standards, combining this approach with the challenge of developing the human rights Country Strategy Papers and implementing action plans, which must also cover democratisation, reflecting the specificity of each country as regards the impact and making full use of the EU's relevant instruments;
Amendment 67 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Stresses the importance of the EU Annual Report on Human Rights and Democracy in the analysis and evaluation of the EU's policy on the matter; notes with regret that the High Representative/Vice- President of the Commission (HR/VP) and/or the European External Action Service (EEAS) for the first time since the presentation of Annual Reports on Human Rights in the World did not present the report to the plenary at all this year, unlike the previous year, and very strongly encourages the HR/VP to present future such reports to Parliament and in timely fashion;
Amendment 69 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Regrets the largely descriptive nature of the Annual Report and the excessive focus on one-off actions; reiterates its request that a more systematic approach be provided, including the development of a single catalogue of Human Rights and Democracy benchmarks shared throughout all EU institutions to be used as a point of reference on the matter not only in Annual Reports but in all EU documents and agreements, use of indices and benchmarks for individual countries, and that performance against these targets be analysed in the Annual Report, in order to facilitate a substantiated assessment of performance;
Amendment 70 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Regrets the largely descriptive nature of the Annual Report and the excessive focus on one-off actions; reiterates its request that a more systematic approach be provided, including the use of indices and benchmarks for individual countries, and that performance against these targets be analysed in the Annual Report, in order to facilitate a substantiated assessment of performance; suggests that the implementation of the European Convention of Human Rights could constitute a viable element of such a HR and Democracy EU single benchmark catalogue in reference to the Eastern Partnership countries;
Amendment 74 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Invites the HR/VP in her drafting of future Annual Reports to consult actively and systematically within a timely way and comprehensively with human rights NGOs, publicly inviting all interested organizations to provide their input, enhancing the use of social networks and media to consult as many organizations as possible; further invites the HR/VP to systematically consult with the Parliament, and to report on the way that Parliament's resolutions have been taken into account;
Amendment 80 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Warmly welcomes the HR/VP's statement to Parliament on 13 December 2011 following up on Parliament's long- standing call for the creation of an EU Special Representative on Human Rights; endorses her view that this would ‘act as a catalyst and raise our profile internationally’, and urges the creation of this function forthwith; calls for the post- holder to be an expert inwith European and worldwide authority to ensure that the transfer of HR issues into the newly created portfolio of the EU Special Representative on Human Rights does not create the risk of diminishing the importance given to HR issues by the EU but quite the contrary, and represent the HR/VP in relation to, international humanitarian law and international justice;
Amendment 98 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Stresses that the mainstreaming of international justice must include systematically taking account of the fight against impunity in the broader context of trade, development and rule-of-law assistance; stresses that victims must be the central concern; highlights the importance of establishing constitutional structures, including an efficient legal system, the separation of powers and a recognized and independent judiciary in order to strengthen the promotion of human rights in any country; recommends that the Rome Statute of the ICC be added to the package of international treaties on good governance and the rule of law to be ratified by third countries admitted to the System of Generalised Preferences Plus (GSP+); recommends the consistent inclusion of ICC clauses in EU agreements with third countries;
Amendment 126 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Reiterates its conviction that all EU external actions must combine a development dimension which focuses on socio-economic progress for all based on sustainable development, including the basic need for food, and a political dimension which supports pluralism, democracy rule of law and respect for human rights;
Amendment 130 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Reiterates its conviction that all EU external actions must combine a development dimension which focuses on socio-economic progress for all based on sustainable development, and a political dimension which supports pluralism, democracy and respect for human rights; reiterates that the European Endowment for Democracy as referred to in the European Parliament's documents will be particularly effective in this matter and a viable complement to the current EU and Member State instruments;
Amendment 136 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
25. Takes note of the plans to establish a European Endowment for Democracy (EED); underlines the Endowment's potential function as a flexible and expert tool to support actors striving for democratic change in non-democratic countries and countries in transitionWelcomes the political decision to establish a European Endowment for Democracy (EED) expressed in the Joint Communication of HR/VP and Commission, Council Conclusions of 3101st and 3130th meeting, leading to the Declaration On The Establishment of A European Endowment For Democracy agreed in COREPER on 15 December 2011, together with the efforts undertaken by an European Endowment for Democracy Working Group established under the auspices of the EEAS in cooperation with Member States and EU institutions, hoping it will be able to finalise a legal framework for the EED during the 2012 Danish presidency and develop its operational readiness; underlines the Endowment's potential function as a flexible, expert, proactive, lightly structured and thus cost-, decision- and response-effective tool at EU arm's length, capable of utilising in-depth knowledge and insights on the local situation in the countries of impact, through direct cooperation with local partners and twinning European and local partners, utilising directly or through re-granting resources of the EU, Member States and beyond, to support actors striving for democratic change in non-democratic countries and countries in transition, in a mutually safe, deniable if necessary, manner; focusing on organized groups with a well-conceived political agenda; urges the Council to ensure that any such tool among its other external actions complements the activities of existing instruments, in particular the EIDHR; stresses that the EU's contribution to the EED budget must be genuinely additionalreflect the involvement of other donors and must be delivered in full conformity with financial rules, respecting the right of the budgetary authority to monitor and scrutinise, respecting the sensitivity of data and the security of beneficiaries;
Amendment 144 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
26. Stresses the importance of a political support process not simply focussed on the period immediately before and after elections, but based on continuity; welcomes the HR/VP's attention to ‘deep democracy’, which links democratic processes with human rights, freedom of expression and association, the rule of law and good governance; expects that the European Endowment for Democracy, the new tool at arm's length of the EU, to effectively support the development of civil society and its capacity for democratic opposition in non-democratic and in-transition countries;
Amendment 147 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27
Paragraph 27
27. Stresses again the importance of choosing priority countries for election observation missions on the basis of a mission's potential for impact on the promotion of genuine long-term democratisation, such as Sudan, Ukraine and Kyrgyzstan in 2010;
Amendment 152 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29
Paragraph 29
29. Stresses the importance, at the end of each election observation mission, of drawing up realistic and achievable recommendations in cooperation with other international actors, with the dissemination and monitoring of these recommendations to be carried out by EU Delegations; considers that Parliament's standing delegations and the joint parliamentary assemblies should play an enhanced role in following up these recommendations and analysing progress with regard to human rights and democracy; supports therefore the promotion of a sustainable and regular dialogue with these third country parliaments;
Amendment 157 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32 a (new)
Paragraph 32 a (new)
32 a. Stresses the importance and urgency of improving the modalities and substance of these dialogues in consultation with civil society; reiterates that dialogues can be constructive and can have real impact on the ground only if followed up with concrete steps taking account of the EU's objectives and the EU Guidelines on human rights dialogues with third countries, as well as if corrective measures are put in place;
Amendment 158 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32 b (new)
Paragraph 32 b (new)
32 b. Recalls that the EU should use these dialogues as an instrument to raise individual cases of human rights violations in third countries, such as cases of political prisoners and detainees as for example in Vietnam and China, imprisoned for the peaceful exercise of basic rights, such as freedom of expression, assembly, association and religion; furthermore calls on the EU to make regular use of this opportunity and follow up responses to individual cases it has raised, monitor these cases, and closely coordinate with human rights organisations involved as well as other countries having human rights dialogues with the country in question;
Amendment 162 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34
Paragraph 34
34. Calls for all contractual relationships with third countries, both industrialised and developing, and including sectoral agreements, trade and technical or financial aid agreements, to include clearly worded clauses on human rights and democracy, without exception; in order to give an unambiguous point of reference for the clauses, reiterates the need to develop a single catalogue of Human Rights and Democracy benchmarks shared throughout all EU institutions, to be used in a descriptive manner but also for evaluation purposes and to programme future expectations in all EU documents and agreements with third countries;
Amendment 163 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34
Paragraph 34
34. Calls for all contractual relationships with third countries, both industrialised and developing, and including sectoral agreements, trade and technical or financial aid agreements, to include clearly worded clauses on human rights and democracy, without exception; suggests that the implementation of the European Convention of Human Rights could constitute a viable element of such a HR and Democracy EU single benchmark catalogue;
Amendment 176 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 38
Paragraph 38
38. Considers that the ‘Arab Spring’ has served to demonstrate the inadequacy of the EU's policies hitherto to effectively support people's strong desire for accountable and representative government in countries where this is denied; welcomes therefore the Joint Communications by the Commission and the HR/VP on ‘A new response to a changing Neighbourhood’, expressing among other points, the need for the establishment of the European Endowment for Democracy, and ‘A partnership for democracy and shared prosperity with the Southern Mediterranean’, and the approach taken of shared commitments and mutual accountability, stronger conditionality, differentiation of policies, the advancing of multilateral and sub-regional cooperation and the principle of further involving civil society;
Amendment 177 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 38
Paragraph 38
38. Considers that the ‘Arab Spring’ has served to demonstrate the inadequacy of the EU's policies hitherto to effectively support people's strong desire for accountable and representative government in countries where this is denied; welcomes therefore the Joint Communications by the Commission and the HR/VP on ‘A new response to a changing Neighbourhood’ and ‘A partnership for democracy and shared prosperity with the Southern Mediterranean’, and the approach taken of shared commitments and mutual accountability, stronger as regards the universal values of human rights, democracy and the rule of law, stronger incentive-based conditionality, differentiation of policies, the advancing of multilateral and sub- regional cooperation and the principle of further involving civil society; at the same time reiterates the fact that the EU's partnership in democratization processes and economic prosperity in the South needs to run in parallel with its engagements in the Eastern neighbourhood;
Amendment 183 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 38 a (new)
Paragraph 38 a (new)
38 a. Welcomes the new approach to the ENP aiming for greater support for partners engaged in building deep and sustainable democracy, support for inclusive economic development, and strengthening the two regional dimensions of the European Neighbourhood Policy;
Amendment 184 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 39
Paragraph 39
39. Reiterates its view thatSupports a performance- based ‘more for more’ approach also implies ‘less for less’in line with the new vision of the ENP; insists that differentiation should be based on clearly defined criteria and regularly monitored benchmarks and proposes that the benchmarks laid down in the Communications be considered as objectives, to be complemented by more specific, measurable, achievable, time- bound benchmarks; calls on the EEAS and the Commission to provide a clear and adequate methodology to assess the record of the ENP countries concerning respect for and promotion of democracy and human rights, to deliver regular reports to form the basis for the allocation of funds under the ‘more for more’ approach, and to include these evaluations in the annual progress reports; stresses that the funds that are not able to be allocated or transferred due to a negative evaluation, should be redistributed to other projects undertaken in European Neighbourhood partner countries, both in the Southern and Eastern dimension;
Amendment 188 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 40
Paragraph 40
40. Emphasises the crucial importance of active civil society participation considering all parts of society, in and contribution to processes of governance, and insists that, in future, civil society must be engaged so as to contribute directly through an institutionalised ‘civil society monitoring mechanism’;
Amendment 193 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 43
Paragraph 43
43. Welcomes the Commission's Communication on an Agenda for Change and its emphasis on the intertwined nature of the objectives of development, democracy, human rights, good governance and security; welcomes the enhanced focus on partner countries' commitments in determining the mix of instruments and modalities at country level; simultaneously stresses the need to eliminate current and avoid future double standards; welcomes the translation of this policy into the Commission's Communication on The Future Approach to Budget Support to Third Countries, which states that general budget support will only be provided when partner countries commit to meeting international human rights and democracy standards; calls on the Commission and the EEAS to translate this policy framework into concrete, operational, time-bound and measurable activities, mainstreamed throughout the different areas of cooperation and accompanied by the necessary strengthening of institutional frameworks and administrative capacities;
Amendment 194 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 44
Paragraph 44
44. Notes that, in order to maximise coherence and effectiveness, a strategic approach is needed to combining different geographic and thematic instruments to protect and promote human rights, based on a solid analysis of the local context eliminating current and avoiding future double standards; welcomes, in this respect, the commitment given in the 12 December 2011 Joint Communication on Human Rights and Democracy at the Heart of EU External Action: Towards a More Effective Approach to take the human rights country strategies into account in the programming and implementing cycles of the EU's assistance, and invites the HR/VP to draw up a more detailed methodology to implement this commitment;
Amendment 195 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 44
Paragraph 44
44. Notes that, in order to maximise coherence and effectiveness, a strategic bottom-up approach is needed to combining different geographic and thematic instruments to protect and promote human rights, highlighting that one of the basic conditions for any political engagement is guaranteed food security ideally through local food production, based on a solid analysis of the local context; welcomes, in this respect, the commitment given in the 12 December 2011 Joint Communication on Human Rights and Democracy at the Heart of EU External Action: Towards a More Effective Approach to take the human rights country strategies into account in the programming and implementing cycles of the EU's assistance, and invites the HR/VP to draw up a more detailed methodology to implement this commitment;
Amendment 200 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 48
Paragraph 48
48. Welcomes the successful result of UN General Assembly resolution 65/206 of 21 December 2010 on a moratorium on the use of the death penalty and, indicating the strengthening of global support towards abolition, and a growing awareness among activists, judges, politicians and people in general; further welcomes the important role played by the EU in securing this victory; looks forward to a strong partnership with Member States and the EEAS on the 2012 General Assembly resolution;
Amendment 202 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 48 a (new)
Paragraph 48 a (new)
48 a. Calls on the EU to continue using cooperation and diplomacy towards the abolition of the death penalty in all possible forums worldwide in line with the EU Guidelines on the death penalty; concerning countries where the death penalty still exists, further calls on the EU to do its outmost for a progressive restriction leading to abolition, as well as for executions to be carried out according to international minimum standards, and also to ensure that the right to a fair trial is fully respected for each and every person facing execution, without the use of torture and other ill-treatment used to extract confessions;
Amendment 203 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 48 b (new)
Paragraph 48 b (new)
48 b. Stresses the importance for the EU to continue monitoring the conditions under which executions are carried out in those countries that still retain the death penalty, and to support legal and constitutional reform towards full and total abolition;
Amendment 218 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 53
Paragraph 53
53. Welcomes the EU's political commitment to supporting human rights defenders, as a long-established component of the EU's human rights external relations policy, and the many positive examples of demarches, trial observations, prison visits, and other concrete actions undertaken by EU missions and delegations, but remains concerned at the lack of implementation of the EU Guidelines on Human Rights Defenders in some third countries; considers that the HR/VP should make recommendations for enhanced action to those missions where implementation has been noticeably weak;
Amendment 220 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 53 a (new)
Paragraph 53 a (new)
53 a. Urges the EU and its Member States to encourage EU missions and delegations to show their support and solidarity for the work undertaken by HRDs and their organizations, by regularly meeting and proactively engaging with them and incorporating their contributions into the development of the specific country strategies on human rights and democracy, and regularly engaging with the European Parliament;
Amendment 221 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 53 b (new)
Paragraph 53 b (new)
53 b. Reiterates its call on the EU to systematically raise individual cases of HRDs in the on-going human rights dialogues it has with those third countries where human rights defenders continue to suffer harassment and attacks;
Amendment 223 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 55
Paragraph 55
55. Reiterates its call for greater inter- institutional cooperation on human rights defenders; considers that the EU's response capacity and the coherence between the actions of the different institutions on urgent crises for human rights defenders would be well served by a shared alert system based on focal points, and encourages the Council and Commission to explore this avenue further; stresses the important role of the Sakharov Prize Network in this and other areas; welcomes the initiative to move the idea of the Network further through, among other activities, the Sakharov Network Conference organised in the European Parliament on 23 November 2011; calls on all EU institutions to exercise greater involvement and cooperation;
Amendment 234 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 59
Paragraph 59
59. Calls on the HR/VP to promote equal geographically and gender-balanced opportunities in the EEAS, as set out in the Staff Regulations; urges the HR/VP and the Member States to propose high-level women candidates for leadership functions in the EEAS and Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) missions; welcomes the progress made in the context of CSDP missions in the appointment of Gender Advisors in almost all missions and in providing in-mission training; calls on the Council to include a reference to UNSCR 1325 in Council decisions establishing mission mandates; recommends that Member States provide all military and seconded civilian staff with standardised gender training modules prior to the missions;
Amendment 252 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 63
Paragraph 63
63. UCondemns severely any persecution based on religion or belief, paying special attention to the situation of Christians in the world; urges the Council and Commission to develop a toolkit on the advancement of the right to freedom of religion or belief in the EU's external policy, including mechanisms to identify infringements, and to involve civil society organisations in its preparation; welcomes the EU's action in various UN forums against intolerance and discrimination based on religion or belief and its unwavering and principled stance against the resolutions on combating defamation of religions; highlights the fact that freedom of religion as a universal human right applies to all kinds of faith and this freedom implies that everyone can publicly profess and promote their faith, possibly change it and confess to having no faith; stresses in particular the importance of engaging in a constructive dialogue with the Organisation of the Islamic Conference (OIC) on this issue;
Amendment 261 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 63 a (new)
Paragraph 63 a (new)
63 a. Is convinced that the right to freedom of religion or belief is one of the fundamental principles of all modern democracies and contributes to creating the conditions required for peace, democratisation and development and for the promotion of other human rights; in this light remains deeply concerned that discrimination based on religion or belief still exists in all regions of the world, and that persons belonging to particular religious communities, including religious minorities, continue to be denied their human rights in many countries such as North Korea, Iran, Afghanistan, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, the Maldives, Yemen, Iraq, Uzbekistan, Laos, Pakistan, Eritrea, Egypt, and Nigeria; remains deeply concerned about legislation on defamation of religion and blasphemy laws that limits freedom of expression and are particularly used against religious minorities; in this respect welcomes the increased attention given to the fundamental right to freedom of religion or belief, the Council's confirmation of its conclusions on freedom of Religion or Belief in 2009, and the EU's promise to enhance action to promote and protect this right in its external policy;
Amendment 264 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 63 b (new)
Paragraph 63 b (new)
63 b. Urges the EEAS to develop a permanent capacity within the Global and Multilateral Directorate General to mainstream the issue of freedom of religion or belief across the geographical directorates and units as well as linking the issue into general human rights promotion within the same DG and advancing the issue in international and multilateral organisations; encourages the EEAS to report on an annual basis on progress on freedom of religion or belief in the world;
Amendment 267 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 63 c (new)
Paragraph 63 c (new)
63 c. Calls on the EU Fundamental Rights Agency to provide Parliament with accurate and reliable data on infringements of freedom of religion or belief in the European Union, and to advise as to how these could be tackled;
Amendment 271 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 64
Paragraph 64
64. Commends the Council, the EEAS, the HR/VP, the Commission and Member States on their engagement in favour of LGBT people's human rights in bilateral relations with third countries, in multilateral fora, and through the EIDHR; welcomes the reintroduction of sexual orientation as a ground for protection from extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions by the UNGA, and welcomes EU efforts to this end; calls on the Commission to advocate the withdrawal of gender identity from the list of mental and behavioural disorders in the negotiations on the 11th version of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) and to seek a non-pathologising reclassification; reasserts that the principle of non- discrimination, including on grounds of sex and sexual orientation, must not be compromised in the ACP-EU partnership; reiterates its request that the Commission produce a comprehensive roadmap against homophobia, transphobia and discrimination on grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity, also addressing human rights violations on these grounds in the world; calls on EU Member States to grant asylum to people fleeing persecution in countries where LGBT people are criminalised, taking into consideration applicants' well-founded fears of persecution and relying on their self-identification as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender;
Amendment 275 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 66
Paragraph 66
66. Calls on the EU to encourage governments of developing countries to commit to land reform where relevant in order to secure the land titles of indigenous people, nomadic populations especially women, and to prevent land-grabbing practices by corporations; stresses that it is necessary to protect the land, tenancy and land use rights of small local farmers and the access of local communities to natural resources, in order to prevent further land takeovers; highlights in this regard the importance of securing income for small farmers in order to empower them to contribute to the socio-economic and democratic development of these countries; urges the EU to assert the right of access to natural resources, in particular for native and indigenous peoples, in the negotiation of trade agreements;
Amendment 289 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 69
Paragraph 69
69. Notes that the Internet has become one of the most important vehicles through which individuals exercise their right to freedom of opinion and expression, and that it has played a crucial role in promoting human rights, democratic participation, accountability, transparency and economic development; bearing in mind that not all parts of society, in particular the elderly and rural population, have access to the Internet;
Amendment 325 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 84
Paragraph 84
84. Acknowledges, in the wake of the Arab Spring, the focus on ‘bottom up’ tailor- made approaches and the need to move respect for human rights to the centre of EU foreign policy; therefore stresses that the EU needs to support and involve the governments, parliaments and civil society in the process of respecting and monitoring human rights; considers that the EU must learn from past mistakes epitomised by the fact that right up to the outbreak of civil war in Libya, negotiations were underway on a framework agreement with Libya, despite evidence of the murder of 1 200 prisoners over a decade before and a litany of torture, enforced disappearances and extrajudicial executions;
Amendment 326 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 84
Paragraph 84
84. Acknowledges, in the wake of the Arab Spring, the focus on ‘bottom up’ tailor- made approaches and the need to move respect for human rights to the centre of EU foreign policy; considers that the EU must learn from past mistakes epitomised by the fact that right up to the outbreak of civil war in Libya, negotiations were underway on a framework agreement with Libya, despite evidence of the murder of 1 200 prisoners over a decade before and a litany of torture, enforced disappearances and extrajudicial executions; at the same time reiterates the fact that the EU's partnership in democratization processes and economic prosperity in the South needs to run in parallel with its engagements in the Eastern neighbourhood;
Amendment 327 #
2011/2185(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 84
Paragraph 84
84. Acknowledges, in the wake of the Arab Spring, the focus on ‘bottom up’ tailor- made approaches and the need to move respect for human rights to the centre of EU foreign policy; considers that the EU must learn from past mistakes epitomised by the fact that right up to the outbreak of civil war in Libya, negotiations were underway on a framework agreement with Libya, despite evidence of the murder of 1 200 prisoners over a decade before and a litany of torture, enforced disappearances and extrajudicial executions; stresses that the funds that could not be allocated or transferred to the European Neighbourhood countries due to a negative evaluation, should be redistributed to other projects taking place in European Neighbourhood partner countries both in Southern and Eastern dimension;
Amendment 64 #
2011/2180(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Highlights the fact that the priorities set up within the Bologna process represent the conditions necessary to guarantee that every student enrolled in a European university has the right to graduate and to see his qualification recognised in any EU country, with the goal of creating a genuine sense of European University Citizenship;
Amendment 79 #
2011/2180(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Calls for a commitment on the part of universities to new teaching and training strategies aimed at a learning-centred university system and to the continuous professional and methodological development of their academic staff;
Amendment 113 #
2011/2180(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Asks the EU, in order to guarantee mutual trust, to consolidate a system of quality assurance at both European and Member State level; asks thecalls on Member States to implement their national qualification assurance systems; calls on Member States to sign up to the European Quality Asign up to the European Quality Assurance Register and – in line with this – to implement their national qualification assurance Regisysterms;
Amendment 145 #
2011/2180(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Draws attention to the particular needs of the Bachelor's degree, its curricula, its access paths to Masters programmes, and its employability, stresses in this respect the need for specific actions and for more effective cooperation between universities and the labour market with a view to developing more relevant curricula and enhancing employability;
Amendment 164 #
2011/2180(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 a (new)
Paragraph 14 a (new)
14a. Welcomes the Commission's proposal with reference to an Erasmus Masters Degree Mobility Scheme;
Amendment 167 #
2011/2180(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Regards academic PhD degrees, including those carried out in enterprises, as a key link between higher education and research, and recalls their potential as a key component in the creation of knowledge- based innovation and economic growth; welcomes the Commission's commitment to developing a European Industrial PhD Scheme within the Marie Curie actions;
Amendment 170 #
2011/2180(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Calls for an effective strategy to be set up to support lifelong learning programmes and sustainable initiatives that are fully integrated into the institution and promote a lifelong learning culture;
Amendment 217 #
2011/2180(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Points out that the Bologna Process 2012 Biannual Ministerial Meeting in Bucharest must take into account the fact that the creation of EHEA has laid down the conditions for joint competence of the EU and the Member States on the issue of higher education, and should call for a more harmonious implementation of the Process throughout the Member States;
Amendment 15 #
2011/2178(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Calls for special programmes and eGovernment platforms to be developed with the aim of protecting and promoting local, regional, ethnic and linguistic diversity;
Amendment 20 #
2011/2178(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Calls on the Commission and Member States to actively involve citizens, businesses and educational institutions in developing user-driven eGovernment platforms, using open source software and interoperable standards, thus promoting participatory democracy and building trust in democratic government forms;
Amendment 27 #
2011/2178(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Calls on Member States and the Commission to publish publicly funded data in machine-readable form (and in real time) under open licences, to enable innovative re-use of public sector information by academia and for research, business development and the general public, thus also enhancing transparency;
Amendment 46 #
2011/2178(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Calls on the Member States to integrate digital literacy and transversal skills into education systems; to promote possibilities offered by EU programmes (such as the Lifelong Learning Programme – Grundtvig) in disseminating digital literacy and skills among all age groups (including the older generation) and all social groups.
Amendment 46 #
2011/2157(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Emphasizes the need to initiate, run and support cultural and educational programs aimed at disseminating and promoting basic values of participative democracy, including the respect of human rights and minority rights, accessible to citizens as well as cultural and educational institutions from ENP countries.
Amendment 73 #
2011/2087(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Underlines the importance of encouraging participation in sports activities in schools and universitiesat all levels of education, including kindergarten;
Amendment 100 #
2011/2087(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Calls on sports organisations to pay attention to the needs of disabled sportspeople; to promote the inclusion into sports activities of underprivileged and under-represented communities and individuals;
Amendment 157 #
2011/2087(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Points out that sports at all ages is beneficial to society through its great health enhancing effect, and therefore calls on the Member States to promote the active participation of all age groups in sports activities;
Amendment 199 #
2011/2087(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 a (new)
Paragraph 9 a (new)
9a. Underlines the importance of sports tourism for local and national economies and calls on the Member States to aid the development of this branch of economic and commercial activities;
Amendment 236 #
2011/2087(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Recalls that good governance in sport is a condition for the autonomy and self- regulation of sports organisations, in compliance with the principles of transparency and democracy; underlines the need for appropriate representation of all stakeholders in sports institutions, with special attention to the appropriate representation of women at the organisational level and in decision- making positions;
Amendment 250 #
2011/2087(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Underlines that training for players at local level is needed for the sustainable development of European sport; emphasizes the need for the equivalence and recognition of diploma and qualifications in sports;
Amendment 305 #
2011/2087(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23 a (new)
Paragraph 23 a (new)
23a. Calls on the Commission and the Member States to promote in all cooperation with non-member states the global respect of Olympic rules and regulations;
Amendment 320 #
2011/2087(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25 – indent 3
Paragraph 25 – indent 3
– to draw up a European map of local, traditional sports and support its dissemination; calls on the Commission and the Member States to support the protection and promotion of traditional sports as part of our European heritage;
Amendment 36 #
2011/2067(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Considers that measures should be implemented for setting up a system of informal and at-the-workplace training, e.g. a system of apprenticeship, also within traditional crafts and professions, in order to make acquiring new skills and jobs more accessible as well as to promote the diversification of the labour market.
Amendment 37 #
2011/2067(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 b (new)
Paragraph 5 b (new)
5b. Emphasises the need to raise the profile and attractiveness of professions and jobs where there exists a deficit of workforce on the labour market.
Amendment 45 #
2011/2067(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Points out that the ability to communicate in foreign languages is considered important for all EU citizens and regarded as a useful skill by employers assessing applicants; therefore encourages this literacy requirement and supports the development of language teaching, including acquiring communication skills in languages of lower international circulation and usage;
Amendment 55 #
2011/2067(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8a. Calls for exchange of experience and presentation and promotion of best practice in the area of raising employability and education for the actual labour market demand.
Amendment 6 #
2011/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Advises the Commission and the Member States to make a greater effort to reduce school drop-out rates, also for disabled people, in addition to promoting the integration of education and work, in order to eliminate economic, social, or any other kind of marginalization;
Amendment 15 #
2011/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Calls on the Member States to implement lifelong, informal and distance training programmes and to step up the implementation of the EQF (European Qualifications Framework), in accordance with the flagship initiative ‘An agenda for new skills and jobs’;
Amendment 17 #
2011/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Calls for education, including sport and education in the arts, to be provided from the pre-school age, to prevent poverty from being passed on from one generation to the next; emphasises the role of sports and cultural activities in promoting inclusion, non-discrimination and volunteering, and calls on the Member States to make a greater effort in the funding, organisation and promotion of such programmes;
Amendment 25 #
2011/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Calls for an intercultural, multilingual approach to be endorsed, to facilitate the educational and formative integration of migrants; calls for training courses and workshops for teachers, institutional staff, social workers and NGOs active in this field in order to sensitize them and focus the attention in their work on the elimination of exclusion and/or marginalization;
Amendment 38 #
2011/2052(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Supports the promotion of second- chance education and training projects, also with NGOs, through the use of the Structural Funds; reiterates the crucial role of youth organizations in motivating the young to partake in programmes aiming social inclusion and equality;
Amendment 47 #
2011/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Regrets that the European Schools are often wrongly considered to be elitist schools, a luxury rather than a necessity, when their mission is to provide mother- tongue education for students whose parents may be required to change their place of work or return to their country of origin;
Amendment 55 #
2011/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Considers that the European Schools should serve as an example and best practice in the dissemination of European culture, values and languages, and that exporting this model to the national education systems would assist professional mobility;
Amendment 59 #
2011/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Considers that the European Schools should also function as promoters of multiculturalism and multilingualism, and as models in the protection and promotion of languages of lower international usage; believes that the small number of pupils requiring education in a certain language should not lead to ceasing education in that particular language, emphasizing the fact that mother-tongue education constitutes the founding principle of the European Schools;
Amendment 63 #
2011/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Considers that the budget restrictions that the Schools will have to accept must be accompanied by a real increase in their management autonomy, also that the organisational reform to be implemented will not affect negatively the founding principles of the European Schools;
Amendment 80 #
2011/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Invites the Member States to develop syllabuses for use in all EU countries, including European Schools, so that compatibility among national systems and the European Schools’ system may be achieved;
Amendment 137 #
2011/2036(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 a (new)
Paragraph 21 a (new)
21a. Considers that special training programmes and professional workshops for teachers coming from the different national systems should be organised in order to prepare them — according to common standards and criteria — for the work within the European Schools’ system;
Amendment 302 #
2011/0371(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 30
Recital 30
(30) The European Commission and the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security policy, in their joint Communication on a new response to a changing Neighbourhood outlined, inter alia, the aim tof further facilitate Ning neighbourhood countries' participation in Union mobility and capacity building actions in higher education and the opening of the future education programme to Nneighbouringhood countries. The same aim should be achieved in the case of candidate or potential candidate countries.
Amendment 416 #
2011/0371(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – point e – introductory part
Article 5 – point e – introductory part
(e) To improve the teaching and learning of languages, including traditional minority and sign languages, and promote linguistic diversity;
Amendment 484 #
2011/0371(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 a (new) - title (new)
Article 5 a (new) - title (new)
Article 5a Specific objectives in the field of education and training
Amendment 485 #
2011/0371(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 a (new) - paragraph 1 (new) - introductory wording (new)
Article 5 a (new) - paragraph 1 (new) - introductory wording (new)
1. In the field of Grundtvig (adult learning), the programme shall aim to:
Amendment 486 #
2011/0371(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 a (new) - paragraph 1 (new) - point a (new)
Article 5 a (new) - paragraph 1 (new) - point a (new)
(a) address the learning needs of disadvantaged groups, including traditional national and ethnic minorities, people with disabilities, early school leavers, low qualified adults and older adults.
Amendment 526 #
2011/0371(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 1 – point b – introductory part
Article 8 – paragraph 1 – point b – introductory part
(b) transnational partnerships between enterprises and education institutions in the form of: Knowledge Alliances between, in particular, higher education institutions and enterprises promoting creativity, innovation, experience based education and entrepreneurship by offering relevant learning opportunities, including developing new curricula;
Amendment 739 #
2011/0371(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2 – point c
Article 13 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 2 – point c
c) EUR 238 827 000 for actions relating to S[2,4%] for the sport, activities referred to in Chapter IIIArticle 12.
Amendment 32 #
2011/0135(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) The constant rise of infringements of intellectual property rights constitutes a genuine threat not only to the Union economy, but also to the health and safety of Union consumers, as well as to European cultural and linguistic diversity and heritage and their sustainable protection and promotion. Therefore, effective, immediate and coordinated actions at European and global levels are needed to successfully combat this phenomenon.
Amendment 37 #
2011/0135(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) The Communication set out that the Observatory should become the central resource for gathering, monitoring and reporting information and data related to all intellectual property rights infringements. It should be used as a platform for cooperation between representatives from national authorities and all public and private stakeholders to exchange ideas and expertise on best practices, to develop joint enforcement strategies and to make recommendations to policy-makers. The Communication specified that the Observatory would be hosted and managed by the services of the Commission.
Amendment 88 #
2011/0135(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – point d
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – point d
(d) collecting, analysing and disseminating relevant objective, comparable and reliable data regarding the economic value of intellectual property and its contribution to economic growth, welfare, innovation, creativity, cultural and linguistic diversity, the creation of high quality jobs and the development of high quality products and services within the Union;
Amendment 97 #
2011/0135(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – point k
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – point k
(k) working with national authorities to develop an on-line network to exchange informationharmonise existing national databases related to the protection of intellectual property rights and to develop an online network in this field for exchanges of information, including real- time alerts and information on infringements of intellectual property rights between administrations, bodies and organisations in the Member States dealing with the protection of intellectual property rights;
Amendment 8 #
2010/2276(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Calls on national ministries of education as well as the Commission to establish innovative and flexible grants for talent nurturing and to increase support for existing grants and programmes;
Amendment 20 #
2010/2276(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Amendment 21 #
2010/2276(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 b (new)
Paragraph 2 b (new)
2b. Considers that a new type of scholarship programme should be developed to ensure the highest quality instruction for Roma students in order to educate a new generation of Roma leaders;
Amendment 22 #
2010/2276(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 c (new)
Paragraph 2 c (new)
2c. Believes that educational institutions whose underprivileged students win places in higher level institutions or whose graduating percentage is above the average should be rewarded and calls on the Commission to develop projects in this respect;
Amendment 30 #
2010/2276(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Believes that local governments must take care of the reintegration of students falling out of the school system up to the maximum age of compulsory education. To this end, educational institutions must inform local governments about school- leavers;
Amendment 33 #
2010/2276(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Believes that kindergartens and/or alternative forms of pre-school care and education should be established in communities where none exist, and expanded where there is a lack of places;
Amendment 55 #
2010/2276(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7a. Believes that the system of training within workplaces must be expanded and enabled to provide the acquisition of necessary skills and abilities on a large scale;
Amendment 56 #
2010/2276(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 b (new)
Paragraph 7 b (new)
7b. Believes that it is necessary to harmonize the training supply with the labour-market demand, and therefore calls for middle-term national and regional forecasts on expected labour- demand;
Amendment 57 #
2010/2276(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7 c (new)
Paragraph 7 c (new)
7c. Calls on the Commission to develop and implement joint monitoring systems of EU institutions, member states and Roma community leaders for the programmes and projects put into practice within the member states;
Amendment 64 #
2010/2276(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8a. Calls on the Commission to promote best practices and positive models and experiences with implemented programmes and Roma self-initiatives in order to improve the perception and image of Roma within non-Roma communities as well as to boost active participation and creative collaboration on the part of the Roma communities with EU, member state and local programmes.
Amendment 29 #
2010/2234(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Recommends boosting creativityactive participation of all stakeholders and taking initiative at all levels of education including vocational, non-formal and informal learning; also with respect to projects sustaining the transmission of knowledge and skills from generation to generation;
Amendment 52 #
2010/2234(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Considers that the challenges posed by the 2020 strategy create a need to provide adequate financial resources as well as increasing VET prestige through the promotion of new models and methods of training; considers, in this respect, that giving visibility to student success stories and sharing European best practices in the labour market would be of great value.
Amendment 55 #
2010/2234(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8a. Recalls that VET programs should be extended to comply with the principles of life-long learning, initial and continued training.
Amendment 56 #
2010/2234(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 8 b (new)
Paragraph 8 b (new)
8b. Considers that a better harmonization among the different educational systems of Member States, bridging these differences and the recognition of certificates and diplomas among member states should be emphasised in order to heighten cross-border collaboration and aid mobility.
Amendment 181 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 37
Paragraph 37
37. Urges the Iranian leaders to enact a law unequivocally banning stoning as a legal punishment; condemns the fact that the Iranian regime still sentences to death and executes juvenile offenders; condemns the Iranian regime’s use of the death penalty, which places Iran in second position, just after China, in the league table of countries with the highest number of executions; strongly condemns the increased number of executions following the peaceful demonstrations after presidential elections in Iran in June 2009; is concerned that China still carries out the greatest number of executions worldwide; welcomes the positive action of the Belarusian authorities in setting up a Working Group to draft proposals on imposing a moratorium on the death penalty; remains concerned that executions are still carried out in Belarus, which is the only country in Europe that continues to use the death penalty, leaving the families of those executed without information on the date of the execution or where the body is buried;
Amendment 197 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 41a (new)
Paragraph 41a (new)
Amendment 237 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 53
Paragraph 53
53. Urges the Council, the Commission and the Member States to implement the measures proposed by Parliament in its resolution on EU policies in favour of human rights defenders, adopted in June 2010; with a gender perspective in the implementation of the guidelines in favour of women human rights defenders and other particularly vulnerable groups, such as defenders working to promote economic, social and cultural rights and those working with minorities' rights and indigenous people;
Amendment 247 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 55
Paragraph 55
55. Acknowledges conclusions in many human rights reports that human rights defenders, while bringing an invaluable contribution to the protection and promotion of human rights at the risk of their own personal security, have been suffering from increasingly strong attacks in various forms, such as attacks on freedom of expression or association, arbitrary arrests, unfair trials and closure of the offices of civil society organisations;
Amendment 264 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 58
Paragraph 58
58. NotesDeeply deplores the fact that the Cuban government refuses to recognize human rights monitoring as a legitimate activity denying legal status to local human rights groups; notes with concern that the detention, as well as the release and subsequent deportation, of local human rights defenders in Cubathe country without the right of return is also a grave human rights violation; condemns the fact that in several countries attacks and anonymous threats against human rights defenders are commonplace, journalists, in particular those covering corruption and drug trafficking face threats and attacks for their work;
Amendment 322 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 68a (new)
Paragraph 68a (new)
68a (new). Stresses that international human rights law recognizes freedom of religion or belief regardless of registration status, so registration should not be a mandatory precondition for practicing one's religion; furthermore points out with concern that in Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and Vietnam religious groups need to register with the government and operate under government-controlled management boards, that interfere with their religious autonomy, and restrict their activity;
Amendment 323 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 68b (new)
Paragraph 68b (new)
68b (new). Calls on Russia to put a moratorium on the implementation of the 2002 Law on Fighting Extremist Activity as it is used and abused to restrict religious freedom, to repress and attempt to ban non-violent religious groups; notes furthermore with great concern that 265 religious and faith-based organizations are on a black list of so-called extremist organizations;
Amendment 324 #
2010/2202(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 68c (new)
Paragraph 68c (new)
68c (new). Urges furthermore the following countries to stop restrictions on freedom of association and assembly of religious groups and respect freedom of religion and belief: Saudi Arabia, Egypt , Eritrea, Iran, Somalia, Yemen, Belarus, North Korea, Laos;
Amendment 8 #
2010/2013(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital C
Recital C
C. whereas education and training policies should enable all citizens, irrespective of their age, gender, linguistic, ethnic, national, religious and socio-economic background, to acquire, update and develop their skills and competences
Amendment 60 #
2010/2013(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8a. Draws attention to the importance of education in mother tongue especially in case of traditional minorities;
Amendment 66 #
2010/2013(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Underlines the need to continue to develop and confirm language acquisition at primary and secondary school and the importance to be taught in their mother tongue in the case of traditional minorities;
Amendment 96 #
2010/2013(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17 a (new)
Paragraph 17 a (new)
17a. Considers that higher education institutions should become more diverse, the complementary character of the state, private and denominational institutions should be respected and sustained;
Amendment 106 #
2010/2013(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 a (new)
Paragraph 18 a (new)
18a. Calls on the Member States to support by legislative, administrative and financial means education in their mother tongue in case of traditional minorities;
Amendment 54 #
2010/0074(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 3
Article 2 – paragraph 3
3. "Organiser" means a natural or legal person or organisation responsible for the preparation and submission of a citizens' initiative to the Commission.ing committee" means a group of at least seven citizens of the Union, each from a different Member State, which is responsible for the preparation and submission of a citizens' initiative to the Commission. (This amendment applies throughout the text. Adopting it will necessitate corresponding changes throughout.)
Amendment 66 #
2010/0074(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 2
Article 3 – paragraph 2
2. In order to be eligible to support a proposed citizens' initiative, signatories shall be citizens of the Union and shall be of the age to be entitled to vote in the European electionsaged 16 or above.
Amendment 84 #
2010/0074(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 1
Article 7 – paragraph 1
1. The signatories of a citizens' initiative shall come from at least one thirdquarter of Member States.
Amendment 88 #
2010/0074(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 2
Article 7 – paragraph 2
2. In one thirdquarter of Member States, signatories shall comprise at least the minimum number of citizens set out in Annex I. These minimum numbers represent a threshold below 0.2 % of the population of a given Member State, based on a multiple of the number of the Members of the European Parliament for that Member State. The multiple proposed is 500.
Amendment 7 #
2009/2241(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Points out thatRecalls that promotion of respect of human rights, a core value of the EU as embedded in its founding treaty, constitutes common ground for its relations with third countries; therefore accession will further enhance the European Union’'s credibility in talks on human rights with non-Members States;
Amendment 17 #
2009/2219(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3a (new)
Paragraph 3a (new)
3a. Reminds the Commission that in the framework of article 207 of the Lisbon Treaty, EU legislation concerning external trade will be adopted jointly by the EP and the Council; therefore, the EP should make best use of its enhanced powers, either on its own initiative or at the request of a Member State, to influence the Commission to suspend temporarily trade advantages, including those stemming from free trade agreements with third countries whenever it detects human rights or labour rights violations;
Amendment 30 #
2009/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Regrets that despitCalls on the EU to prioritize a more effective implementation of the existing tools and mechanisms, within the European Union no for a coherent and systematic protection ofor human rights defenders has been achievedwithin the European Union, recommends the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy to actively look into developing a more result-oriented methodology in this regard.;
Amendment 35 #
2009/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2a (new)
Paragraph 2a (new)
2a. Reminds that support for human rights defenders is a long-established component of the EU's human rights external relations policy, as reflected through the conception of the EU Guidelines on Human Rights and the Guidelines on Human Rights Defenders;
Amendment 37 #
2009/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Considers that the EU needs to expressUrges the EU and its Member States to strengthen its political will to support to the action of human rights defenders and thus, to usemake better use of all existing tools and develop new complementary mechanisms to support and promote their work of human rights defenders through athrough a genuinely participative strategy, which should contribute to an enabling environment for defenders; underlines that this must be combined with a policy aimed at prevention and protection from hostilities, through both urgent and long term measures;
Amendment 41 #
2009/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Recalls that the Treaty of Lisbon, as outlined in its article 3 and 21articles 3 and 21 of the TEU as amended by the Treaty of Lisbon, puts the promotion and protection of human rights at the centre of the Union's external action; underlines that priority must be given to ensure that the promotion of human rights as both a basic value and an objective of the Union's foreign policy is duly mirrored in the creation and structure of the European External Action Service, including through the designation of sufficient human resources; calls therefore for the appointment of a central focal point with a specific responsibility on human rights defenders within the EEAS;
Amendment 46 #
2009/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. RemUnderlindes that implementation by the EU missions of the guidelines on human rights defenders haneeds sto far been unsatisfactory, butbe further improved, through the Lisbon Treaty, Commission delegations in third countries will now have a rarthe opportunity to, but also further challenges and responsibilities to better address this issue as they become Union delegations, with an increasingly important role in terms of representation of the EU and the implementation of the human rights policy; reiterates therefore its call to systematically appoint a highly qualified political official with a specific responsibility on human rights and democracy, and to integrate guidelines on human rights and their implementation in EU mission staff training programmes, job descriptions and appraisal processes, thus encouraging the staff of EU Missions to adopt a pro-active role towards human rights defenders;
Amendment 57 #
2009/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Calls on the Council, the Commission and the CommEU Missions to actively involve human rights defenders and their organizations into the drafting, monitoring and review processes of local strategies, as this will condition the effective value of these strategies
Amendment 58 #
2009/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Considers that the annual meetingsmeetings at least once a year, aiming for meetings on a more regular basis, between human rights defenders and diplomats as requested in the EU guidelines can clearly contribute to the setting-up of such process
Amendment 70 #
2009/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Reiterates its request that through the Lisbon Treaty the promotion and protection of human rights defenders have to be better integrated at all levels and in all aspects and instruments of the Union's Foreign policy in order to increase coherence, effectiveness and credibility of the EU support for human rights defenders; considers that the development of specific country strategies on human rights and democracy could substantially contribute to this targeting approach
Amendment 71 #
2009/2199(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
14. Considers that human rights defenders in third countries canwill be better protected only by making the EU human rights dialogues more effective; stresses the need to influence third countries by systematically raiseing the situation of human rights defenders in all political and human rights dialogues with third countries, reminding of the responsibility of States to ensure that all the obligations and rights embodied in the UN Declaration on Human Rights Defenders are included in national law, including the right to freedom of association and the right to receive domestic and foreign funding, as well as freedom of expression, which is a right essential to the work of human rights defenders; underlines that partner states should also be reminded of the obligation and the responsibility to protect and promote respect of human rights defenders and their work, by creating conditions that fully enable the exercise of advocacy, monitoring and reporting on human rights;
Amendment 16 #
2008/2226(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Draws the attention of the Council and the Member States to the role of European culture and its diversity as a factor in integration, and the importance of artistic and cultural education at European level, including the safeguarding of traditional cultural values in different regions;
Amendment 21 #
2008/2226(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 – indent 1 a (new)
Paragraph 4 – indent 1 a (new)
- formulating value criteria for the visual arts in order to ensure uniform Europe-wide assessment of the contemporary arts,
Amendment 23 #
2008/2226(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 – indent 4
Paragraph 4 – indent 4
Amendment 24 #
2008/2226(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 – indent 5
Paragraph 4 – indent 5
the training of specialised teachers; the training of ‘artist engineers’ of the new medium alongside that of traditional specialised teachers,
Amendment 30 #
2008/2225(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Recalls that the importance of multilingualism is not confined to the economic and social aspects and that attention must also be paid to those related to cultural and scientific creation and transmission and to the importance of translation, both literary and technical, in the lives of the citizens and for the EU's long-term development; and last but not least, the role played by languages in shaping and strengthening identity;
Amendment 49 #
2008/2225(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 c (new)
Paragraph 9 c (new)
9c. Considers the broadest possible adoption and application of the provisions of the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages by Member States to be of vital importance;
Amendment 53 #
2008/2225(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Emphasises the vital need for a thorough groundteaching in one's mother tongue, not only for educational success in general but also for the acquisition of acceptable levels of competence in other languages;
Amendment 56 #
2008/2225(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Stresses, further, the importance of a full knowledge of the host country's language for the full integration of immigrants and their families; calls on Member States to act responsibly vis-à-vis immigrants, providing immigrants with the necessary means to learn the language and culture of the host country, while allowing and encouraging them to maintain their own language;
Amendment 78 #
2008/2225(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15 b (new)
Paragraph 15 b (new)
15b. Stresses that Member States must ensure mother-tongue teaching for indigenous minority communities, and encourages and supports the introduction of such languages as options for the majority co-nation(s);
Amendment 91 #
2008/2225(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Suggests that an adequate degree of multilingualism should also be ensured in the media and in Internet content; urges, with regard to indigenous minority languages, that multilingualism be displayed in public and official buildings and public squares;