Activities of Nadezhda NEYNSKY
Plenary speeches (30)
EU-Russia summit (debate)
Respect for the fundamental right of free movement in the EU (debate)
2013 progress report on Serbia - European integration process of Kosovo (debate)
Outcome of the Vilnius Summit and the future of the Eastern Partnership, in particular as regards Ukraine (debate)
Common rules and procedures for the implementation of the Union's instruments for external action - Instrument for stability - Financing instrument for the promotion of democracy and human rights worldwide - Partnership instrument for cooperation with third countries - Establishing a financing instrument for development cooperation - European neighbourhood instrument - Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance (debate)
One-minute speeches (Rule 150)
Main aspects and basic choices of the common foreign and security policy and the common security and defence policy (Article 36 TEU) - Annual report from the Council to the European Parliament on the common foreign and security policy in 2012 (debate)
EU and Member State measures to tackle the flow of refugees as a result of the conflict in Syria (debate)
2013 review of the organisation and functioning of the EEAS (debate)
2012 progress report on Serbia (debate)
European integration process of Kosovo (debate)
Rule of law and freedom in Bulgaria (debate)
Enlargement: policies, criteria and the EU’s strategic interests (debate)
Implementation of the Common Security and Defence Policy - EU mutual defence and solidarity clauses: political and operational dimensions - Cyber security and defence - Role of the Common Security and Defence Policy in cases of climate-driven crises and natural disasters (debate)
Main aspects and basic choices of the common foreign and security policy and the common security and defence policy (Article 36 TEU) - Annual report from the Council to the European Parliament on the common foreign and security policy (debate)
General provisions for macro-financial assistance to third countries (debate)
Common consolidated corporate tax base (debate)
Outcome of the presidential elections in Russia (debate)
Situation in the Arab world and North Africa - Situation in Yemen - Situation in Syria (continuation of debate)
Question Time (Commission)
5th cohesion report and strategy for the post-2013 cohesion policy - Implementation of cohesion policy programmes for 2007-2013 - European urban agenda and its future in cohesion policy - Objective 3: future agenda for cross-border, transnational and interregional cooperation - Increased effectiveness between ERDF and other structural funds (debate)
Application of Schengen acquis in Bulgaria and Romania (debate)
Southern Neighbourhood, and Libya in particular, including humanitarian aspects (debate)
Eavesdropping scandal in Bulgaria (debate)
One-minute speeches on matters of political importance
Financial Regulation applicable to the general budget of the European Communities as regards the European External Action Service - Draft amending budget No 6/2010: Section II - European Council and Council; Section III - Commission; Section X - European External Action Service - Amendment of the Staff Regulations of Officials of the European Communities and the Conditions of Employment of Other Servants of those Communities (debate)
Question Time (Commission)
2008 annual report on the CFSP - The implementation of the European Security Strategy and the Common Security and Defence Policy - Non-proliferation Treaty (debate)
European Strategy for the Danube Region (debate)
New regulations on visas for Western Balkan countries (Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia) (debate)
Reports (2)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 28 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 17 May 2006 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline and sound financial management (application EGF/2013/003 DE/First Solar from Germany) PDF (191 KB) DOC (82 KB)
REPORT on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council on mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, in accordance with point 28 of the Interinstitutional Agreement of 17 May 2006 between the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission on budgetary discipline and sound financial management (application EGF/2011/014 RO/Nokia from Romania) PDF (188 KB) DOC (107 KB)
Shadow reports (3)
REPORT on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance (IPA II) PDF (648 KB) DOC (797 KB)
REPORT with a proposal for a European Parliament recommendation to the Council on the UN principle of the ‘Responsibility to Protect’ (‘R2P’) PDF (192 KB) DOC (127 KB)
REPORT on the role of the Common Security and Defence Policy in case of climate-driven crises and natural disasters PDF (184 KB) DOC (115 KB)
Opinions (11)
OPINION on the proposal for a decision of the European Parliament and of the Council providing macro-financial assistance to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan
OPINION on the Annual Report from the Council to the European Parliament on the Common Foreign and Security Policy in 2012
OPINION on Recommendation to the EEAS and to the Council on the 2013 review of the organisation and the functioning of the EEAS
OPINION concerning Special Report No 6/2012 of the Court of Auditors entitled 'European Union Assistance to the Turkish Cypriot Community'
OPINION on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing common rules and procedures for the implementation of the Union's instruments for external action
OPINION on the proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance (IPA II)
OPINION on the Annual Report from the Council to the European Parliament on the Common Foreign and Security Policy
OPINION on Enlargement: policies, criteria and the EU’s strategic interests
OPINION on the Annual report on the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP) 2009, presented to the European Parliament in application of Part II, Section G, paragraph 43 of the Inter-institutional Agreement of 17 May 2006
OPINION Proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council amending the Staff Regulations of Officials of the European Communities and the Conditions of Employment of Other Servants of those Communities
OPINION 2008 annual report on the CFSP
Shadow opinions (1)
OPINION Proposal for a Council Regulation on Community financial assistance with respect to the decommissioning of Units 1 to 4 of the Kozloduy Nuclear Power Plant in Bulgaria “Kozloduy Programme”
Amendments (382)
Amendment 239 #
2013/2149(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas the European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP), in particular the Eastern Partnership (EaP), aims to extend the values and ideas of the founders of the EU and further supports Eastern European countries’ sustainable reform processes with a view to accelerating their political association and economic integration with the EU;
Amendment 241 #
2013/2149(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B
Recital B
B. whereas the EaP is directed at European countries and; whereas it is a response to the European aspirations of the societies of the partner countries and is based on a community of values and principles of liberty, democracy, respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms and the rule of law;
Amendment 245 #
2013/2149(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital F a (new)
Recital F a (new)
F a. whereas every country has the sovereign right to join any international organisation or alliance and to define its own future without any external influence;
Amendment 250 #
2013/2149(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Highlights that more progress can be made on the establishment of the visa-free regime; notes, in this connection, that visa liberalization is only one of a number of processes aimed at bringing the societies closer together, and that more efforts are required in this area, particularly with regard to advancing cooperation in the field of education and culture; stresses the increased role of mobility in facilitating people-to-people contacts, including learning mobility, cultural exchanges, research activities, youth networking and volunteering; considers that greater emphasis should be placed on the fact that the EaP project is directed at societies rather than authorities;
Amendment 252 #
2013/2149(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3 a. Highlights that in view of ensuring the prominence of democratic governance and rule of law, a developed and empowered civil society is paramount to the irreversibility of the pursued reforms in the area of human rights and fundamental values and it is therefore crucial to ensure a favourable environment for a pluralistic and independent civil society;
Amendment 264 #
2013/2149(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9 a (new)
Paragraph 9 a (new)
9a. Stresses the importance of finding peaceful and negotiated settlements to the conflicts in the region, in particular in Ukraine, and calls for a commitment by all concerned parties in this regard, as regional stability and security are essential for a full realization of the EaP’s full potential;
Amendment 269 #
2013/2149(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
16. Encourages the development of closer relations between partner countries andwith the promotion of stability and multilateral confidence buildingobjective of building a common area of democracy, prosperity, stability and increased interactions and exchanges;
Amendment 272 #
2013/2149(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Stresses that reform of judicial systems the respect for the rule of law, including the partner countries, ensuring the independence of the judiciary, should be a priorityestablishment of an independent and efficient judiciary, and deterrence of corruption in both private and public sectors is essential for the protection of democratic values;
Amendment 89 #
2013/2010(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Recalls, in this regard, that the EU 2020 strategy should be at the heart of the next MFF (2014-2020) and invites the Commission to clearly prioritise it already in 2014 and to place emphasis on spending for entrepreneurship and self- employment, SMEs, research, development and innovation, renewable energy, sustainable development, and skills; highlights, in this regard, the importance of sufficient financial resources for the programs Horizon and COSME, which are essential to the EU 2020 strategy;
Amendment 94 #
2013/2010(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 a (new)
Paragraph 21 a (new)
21a. Recalls that the biggest economic potential in the EU lies in small and medium enterprises (SMEs) which create most of the new jobs; therefore the promotion of entrepreneurial mindsets and business start-ups through concrete actions, such as the Erasmus for Young Entrepreneurs, is of utmost importance and should be provided with adequate resources;
Amendment 97 #
2013/2010(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21 b (new)
Paragraph 21 b (new)
21b. At times of crisis and European scepticism, today's youth should especially benefit from education programmes fostering the knowledge about the European Union and the European Institutions, including courses on media pluralism; stresses further the valuable role that can be played by the newly established Centre for Media Pluralism and Media Freedom
Amendment 76 #
2012/2870(RSP)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Commends the Commission and Turkey for the implementation of the positive agenda, which proves how, in a context of mutual engagement and clear objectives, Turkey and the EU could advance their dialogue, achieve common understanding and produce positive change; believes that a renewed mutual engagement in the context of the negotiation process is needed to maintain a constructive relationship, and, in this regard, expresses its support for the intention of the Irish Presidency of the European Union to open new negotiation chapters; stresses the importance of creating the conditions for a constructive dialogue and the foundations for a common understanding; is concerned by rhetoric in the public domain in Turkey that the country might abandon its path to the EU;
Amendment 277 #
2012/2870(RSP)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21a (new)
Paragraph 21a (new)
21a. Welcomes the improvement of the overall business environment in Turkey especially by the entry into force of the new Turkish Commercial Code and by the consistent support for small and medium enterprises provided by the SME Development Organisation (KOSGEB); calls for greater partnership between Turkish and EU's businesses;
Amendment 74 #
2012/2287(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Reiterates its determination to continue the fight against terrorism and organised crime and, at the same time, to respect and uphold human rights and fundamental liberties; welcomes the fact that the Passenger Name Records Agreement and the Terrorist Finance Tracking Programme Agreement (SWIFT Agreement), approved by the European Parliament, are already in force; urges the partners to promptly conclude the negotiations on the Data Protection Exchange Agreement; urges the Commissioninsists that the USA has to resolmove the issue of a visa requirement for the citizens of four EU Member States;
Amendment 94 #
2012/2287(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Calls on both partners to study fields and frameworks through which broader transatlantic cooperation could be carried out in a pragmatic way, and to explore with other Atlantic countries the usefulness of this extended cooperation; underlines that possible fields are economic issues, global governance, the process of democratization, development cooperation, climate change, security and energy; calls on the partners to analyse the possibility of making use, for the purpose of these triangular dialogues, of the structures created in Latin America which the EU has traditionally encouraged;
Amendment 2 #
2012/2143(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1
Citation 1
Amendment 10 #
2012/2143(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 3 a (new)
Citation 3 a (new)
– having regard to the report 'The Responsibility to Protect' (2001) by the International Commission on Intervention and State Sovereignty, the report 'A more secure world: our shared responsibility'1 (2004) by the High-Level Panel on Threats, Challenges and Change, and the report 'In larger freedom: towards development, security and human rights for all'2 (2005) by the UN Secretary General, __________________ 1 http://www.un.org/secureworld/report3. pdf. 2 A/59/2005.
Amendment 12 #
2012/2143(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 5
Citation 5
– having regard to the regular informal interactive dialogues of the UN General Assembly (UNGA) which are anticipated by reports of the UN Secretary-General, notably on ‘Implementing the Responsibility to Protect’ of 20091 , ’Early warning, assessment and the responsibility to protect' of 20102 , and ‘The role of regional and subregional arrangements in implementing the responsibility to protect’ of 20113 ,and the 'Responsibility to protect: timely and decisive response' of 20124, __________________ 4 A/66/874/-S/2012/578.
Amendment 18 #
2012/2143(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 9
Citation 9
Amendment 19 #
2012/2143(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 10
Citation 10
Amendment 20 #
2012/2143(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 11 a (new)
Citation 11 a (new)
– having regard to the EU priorities for the 65th United Nations General Assembly of 25 May 201011, __________________ 1 10170/10.
Amendment 21 #
2012/2143(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 12
Citation 12
– having regard to its recommendation to the Council of 8 June 2011 on the 66th session of the UNGA1 and of 13 June 2012 on the 67th session of the UNGA12 , __________________ 1 Texts adopted, P7_TA(2011)0255.
Amendment 22 #
2012/2143(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 12 a (new)
Citation 12 a (new)
– having regard to its resolution of 16 February 2012 on the 19th Session of the UN Human Rights Council1, __________________ 1 Texts adopted, P7_TA(2012)0058.
Amendment 24 #
2012/2143(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 12 b (new)
Citation 12 b (new)
– having regard to the 'European Consensus on Development'1 and the 'European Consensus on Humanitarian Aid'2, __________________ 1 OJ C 46, 24.2.2006, p. 1. 2 OJ C 25, 30.1.2008, p. 1.
Amendment 31 #
2012/2143(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital A
Recital A
A. whereas the principle of R2P, embedded in paragraphs 138 and 139 of the UN World Summit Outcome Document establish at the same time, represents an important step forward towards a more peaceful world by establishing the obligation of states to protect their citizens against genocide, war crimes, ethnic cleansing and crimes against humanity ands well as the obligation of the international community to react should states fail to protect their citizens against these four specified crimes and violations;
Amendment 42 #
2012/2143(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas the emergence of the principle of R2P represents an important step forward towards a more peaceful world, to which effect it is crucially important that early warning and assessment be conducted fairly, prudently and professionally and that the use of force remains the measure of last resort;
Amendment 51 #
2012/2143(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas the most effective form of prevention lies in the promotion of good governance, the rule of law, economic development, poverty reduction, inclusiveness, respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, gender equality, and democratic values and practices;
Amendment 55 #
2012/2143(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E a (new)
Recital E a (new)
Ea. whereas the 2011 military intervention in Libya has shown the need to clarify the role of regional and sub- regional organizations when applying the R2P; whereas these organizations can be both legitimizers and operational agents for the implementation of the R2P but they often lack capacities and resources;
Amendment 78 #
2012/2143(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K
Recital K
K. whereas a narrow but deep approach to implementing R2P should restrict its application to the four crimes and violations specified and should exclude the use of the principle to obtain humanitarian access; whereas humanitarian action; whereas R2P should not be used as a substitute for political action, and whereas humanitarian space needs to be respected by all actors involved;
Amendment 81 #
2012/2143(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K a (new)
Recital K a (new)
Ka. whereas comprehensive assistance has to be offered for post-conflict situations; whereas more efforts are needed in order to ensure accountability for serious violations of human rights and international humanitarian law and the fight against impunity;
Amendment 84 #
2012/2143(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point a
Paragraph 1 – point a
(a) to agree to the establishment of an inter-institutional working group charged with preparing the basis forreconfirm the EU's commitment to R2P by adopting an inter- institutional ‘'Consensus on R2P’ to be adopted' jointly by the Council, the EEAS, the Commission and the European Parliament;
Amendment 91 #
2012/2143(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point c
Paragraph 1 – point c
(c) to institutionalise the practice of producing an annual reportclude a chapter onf the EU's successes and failures in conflict prevention and mitigation in applying the principle of R2P, to be prepared jointly by the EEAS and the Commission in the Annual Report from the High Representative to the European Parliament on the Common Foreign and Security Policy, to be prepared in cooperation with the EU Special Representative for Human Rights;
Amendment 94 #
2012/2143(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point c a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point c a (new)
(ca) to integrate the principle of the Responsibility to Protect in the EU's development assistance; to further professionalise and strengthen preventive diplomacy, mediation, crisis prevention and response capacities of the EU, especially information gathering and exchange as well as early warning systems; to improve the coordination between the various Commission, Council and EEAS structures dealing with all the aspects of R2P, and to inform the European Parliament on regular basis of initiatives taken in support of R2P;
Amendment 103 #
2012/2143(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point e
Paragraph 1 – point e
(e) to train EU and Member States' delegation and embassy staff, as well as civilian and military missions, in international human rights and humanitarian law and further professionalise and strthe principle of R2P; to ensure that EU Special Representatives uphold R2P whenever necessary; to broadeng then mandate of the EU Special Reprevsentative diplomacy and mediationon Human Rights to include R2P issues; to establish national focal points for R2P in EU Member States;
Amendment 107 #
2012/2143(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point f
Paragraph 1 – point f
Amendment 113 #
2012/2143(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point f a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point f a (new)
(fa) to strengthen cooperation with regional and sub-regional organisations, including by improving their prevention, capacity-building and response measures in relation to R2P;
Amendment 123 #
2012/2143(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 – point a a (new)
Paragraph 2 – point a a (new)
(aa) to engage with the EU's regional partners in order to spell out more clearly the role of regional and sub-regional organizations when applying the R2P;
Amendment 131 #
2012/2143(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 – point b
Paragraph 2 – point b
(b) to help strengthen the framework and capacities at UN level for mediation, double-track diplomacy and, exchange of best practices on peace and de-escalation and early warning systems, such as those of the Mediation Support Unit of the Department of Political Affairs; to strengthen the Office of the Special Advisor on the Prevention of Genocide and the Special Advisor on the Responsibility to Protect; to engage the Human Rights Council in the debate on R2P;
Amendment 279 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)
Paragraph 13 a (new)
(a) Calls on China to cooperate with the international community on important global security concerns; to that end, urges for greater Chinese involvement in the resolution of the Syrian crisis with view of ending the conflict in the country;
Amendment 328 #
Amendment 330 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 g (new)
Paragraph 18 g (new)
(g) Welcomes the agreements reached during the EU-China Summit on 20 September 2012; urges for their swift operationalisation and implementation which will strengthen the relations between the Union and China;
Amendment 331 #
2012/2137(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 h (new)
Paragraph 18 h (new)
(h) Notes with great concern the existing difficulties for effective economic and business relations between China and the EU; more specifically, expresses concern that market distortions and lack of protection of Intellectual Property Rights represent considerable impediments for European businesses to operate in China; calls for the promotion and establishment of stronger ties between European and Chinese small and medium enterprises;
Amendment 4 #
2012/2103(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Reminds the Commission thatInsists on the immediate alignment of the EU's energy policy must be in line with other priority policies of the Union, including its security, foreign and neighbourhood, trade, and development policies, to ensure the effectiveness of its energy policy as well as the coherence and credibility of its foreign policy;
Amendment 20 #
2012/2103(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 e (new)
Paragraph 3 e (new)
3e. Insists on the diversification of energy resources as the only way to ensure the energy security of the Union; to that end, urges the Commission to strengthen the energy relations with the countries of the European Neighbourhood and Central Asia; at the same time, calls for the strict application and compliance with the Third Energy Package by all current and future energy sector undertakings operating on the territory of the Union;
Amendment 25 #
2012/2103(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Recalls that the Union's strategic partnerships with producer and transit countries, in particular countries covered by the European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP), require adequate tools, predictability, stability and long-term investment; emphasises, to that end, that the Union's climate objectives must be in accord with EU infrastructure investment projects oriented at diversifying supply rout require adequate tools, predictability, stability and long-term investment; therefore, recalls the importance of the swift completion of the energy interconnections with neighbouring countries as a way to strengthen the relations with those countries, and increasing the Union'ss well as the energy security of the Union;
Amendment 43 #
2012/2103(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Calls for closer cooperation between the European Parliament, the Council, the Commission and the EEAS so that they may speak and act jointly on issues concerning external energy policy.
Amendment 1 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
- having regard to Article 196 of the Treaty of the Functioning of the European Union on civil protection and Article 214 on humanitarian aid,
Amendment 3 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 5
Citation 5
– having regard to the Commission's annual report entitled ‘For a European civil protection force: Europe aAid’ of May 2006,
Amendment 4 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 5 a (new)
Citation 5 a (new)
- having regard to Council Decision 2007/779/EC, Euratom establishing a Community Civil Protection Mechanism of 8 November 20071, __________________ 1 OJ L 314 of 1.12.2007
Amendment 6 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 5 b (new)
Citation 5 b (new)
- having regard to the Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament and the Council "Towards a stronger European disaster response: the role of civil protection and humanitarian assistance" of 26 October 2010 and the Proposal for a Decision of the European Parliament and the Council on a Union Civil Protection Mechanism of 20 December 2011,
Amendment 7 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 5 c (new)
Citation 5 c (new)
- having regard to its resolution of 27 September 20111 on the Commission's Communication "Towards a stronger European disaster response: the role of civil protection and humanitarian assistance" of 26 October 2010, 1 P7_TA-PROV(2011)0404
Amendment 10 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 10 a (new)
Citation 10 a (new)
Amendment 12 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 10 b (new)
Citation 10 b (new)
Amendment 13 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 11
Citation 11
Amendment 14 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 11 – footnote 9
Citation 11 – footnote 9
Amendment 16 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Stresses that climate change is widely recognised as being an essential driver and threat multiplier for global security, peace and stability and that climate change is thus relevant to Articles 42 and 43 of the Lisbon TreaNotes the impact of climate change on global security, peace and stability;
Amendment 23 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
Amendment 26 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Considers that these event increase in extreme weather events in recent years represents an escalating cost to the global economy, not only for developing countries but also for the world economy, both as a direct cost in terms of rebuilding and aid but also as an indirect cost in terms of increases in insurance, prices of products and services; although the cost of the potential aggravation of certain existing or future threats to international peace and security cannot be measured in exact terms, it is certainly very high;
Amendment 29 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Points out that natural disasters, exacerbated by climate change, are highly destabilising, particularly for the states most vulnerable to adverse weather events and for failing states, most of which are in developing regions of the tropics and subtropics; stresses that populations with deteriorating access to freshwater and foodstuffs caused by natural catastrophes exacerbated by climate change are forced tooften migrate, thus overstretching the economic, social and administrative capabilities of states, especially of already fragile regions or failing states, and consequentpotentially creating conflict and having a negative impact on security; recallnotes that these events might create competition between communities and countries for scarce resources, exacerbating old security dilemmas and creating new ones;
Amendment 34 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
Amendment 37 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Recognises that complex crises must be predicted andshould be prevented by applying a comprehensive approach including policy areas covering the entire range from the Common Security and Defence Policy to humanitarian and development aid;
Amendment 44 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
Amendment 47 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Points out the urgent need to adapt EUat in its external action strategies, policies and instruments in such a way that they respond to the security challenges thrown up by climate change, regardless of future emissions limitations agreed in any new convention under the UNFCCC or other international efforts to mitigate the effects of climate change; recognises equally that conflict prevention is an integral component of making a future climate regime functional in practicethe EU should take into consideration the effects of natural disasters and climate change on international security;
Amendment 49 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8a. In this regard, recalls the Commission's mandate for humanitarian aid and civil protection and emphasises the need to further develop and strengthen existing instruments;
Amendment 52 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Stresses, therefore, that it is essential to integrateNotes that the analysis of the impact of natural disasters could also be integrated into Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) strategies and operational plans with a focus on the countries and regions concerned before, during and after anyhen those concern potential natural or humanitarian crises that might emerge;
Amendment 58 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Recalls that the Lisbon Treaty requires the EUnion to develop civilian and military capabilities for international crisis management across the entire range of tasks outlined in its Article 43, in particular conflict prevention, humanitarian and rescue tasks, military advice and assistance tasks, peace-keeping and post-conflict stabilisation; at the same time, is of the opinion that duplication of instruments should be avoided and that a clear distinction should be made between instruments within and outside the scope of the Common Security and Defence Policy, in accordance with Articles 196 and 214 TFEU;
Amendment 62 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. Points out that the Lisbon Treaty has introduced new provisions (Articles 21-23, 27, 39, 41(3), 43-46), notably those related to the start-up fund in Article 41(3), and that these still need to be implemented urgently so that the EU is ready to respond to climate-driven as well as all other natural and humanitarian crises as they arise;
Amendment 67 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 – introductory part
Paragraph 13 – introductory part
13. Calls on the Vice-President of the Commission/High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, as the principal coordinator of EU civilian and military instrumentsbeing responsible for the conduct of the Union's Common Foreign and Security Policy, to:
Amendment 69 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 – point a
Paragraph 13 – point a
(a) put climate change and its futurewhenever deemed appropriate, take into account climate change and natural disasters and their security and defence ramifications at the core of twhen analysis of the risks of future crises and the threat of futureng crises and threats to conflicts;
Amendment 71 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 – point b
Paragraph 13 – point b
(b) focus priorities on thoseassess which countries and/or regions are potentially at greatest risk of conflict and instability, notably as a result of climate change and the more general environmental degradation that resultnatural disasters; make a list of such countries/regions; as part of the annual CFSP reports, provide information on the implementation of EU policies and instruments that aim at addressing these challenges in the listed countries/regions;
Amendment 75 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 – point d
Paragraph 13 – point d
(d) in close cooperation with the Commission, adapt the EU's long-term planning of civilian and military capacities and capabilities accordingly;
Amendment 78 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14
Paragraph 14
Amendment 82 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 a (new)
Paragraph 14 a (new)
14a. Stresses the importance of continuing and enhancing EU's development and humanitarian aid that aims at adaptation, mitigation, response, resilience, relief and post-crisis development in relation to climate-driven crises and natural disasters; notes the importance of initiatives such as disaster risk reduction and linking relief, reconstruction and development and calls on the Commission to mainstream these programmes and actions in its humanitarian and especially development aid; welcomes the proposed greater role of the EU's Civil Protection Mechanism, especially outside of the European Union;
Amendment 86 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
Amendment 88 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 16
Paragraph 16
Amendment 95 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
Amendment 97 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Welcomes ´the recent attempts to strengthen coordination between NATO and EU in the field of capability development; recognises the strong need to identify the mutual advantages of cooperation while respecting the specific responsibilities of both organisations; stresses the need to find and create synergies when it comes to ‘pooling and sharing’ projects and ‘smart defence’ projects (NATO) that address climate- specific needcould be implemented in response to natural disasters;
Amendment 99 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Calls on the HR/VP, as a matter of the utmost urgency, to use the full potential of the Lisbon Treaty and to put forward proposals for the implementation of the start-up fund (Article 41(3) TEU) with regard to possible future pooling and sharing projects and joint capabilities, such as the European Engineer Corps, which respond to climate-driven crisis and natural disasters;
Amendment 102 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Stresses the need to integrNotes thate the negative impact of climate change and natural disasters on peace, security and stability could be integrated in all strategic CFSP/CSDP documents which serve as guidelines for the planning and conduct of individual policies and missions;
Amendment 105 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Considers that early warning and early preventive action with regard to the negative consequences of climate change and natural disasters depend on adequate human resources and methodology with regard to data collection and analysis; calls on the HR/VP to make surenotes that the relevant EEAS units which deal with security and defence policies such as CMPD, CPCC, EUMS, EUMC, the bodies in charge of Conflict Prevention and Security Policy, the Commission's Foreign Policy Instruments Sthe relevant Commission's services and the geographical desks of the countries and regions most affected by climate change take into account the most recent assessment reports of the Intergovernmental panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and oshould integrate analysis of the impact of natural disasters on international security and political stability in their mworek; recent assessments and reports, i.e. the relevant EU space-based programmes and systems (GMES); stresses the need to enhanceommends training of EEAS and Commission staff in monitoring the caimpacities of EU delegations in the countries most vulnerable to destabilisation where problems might be exacerbated by climate change to include monitoring crisis development and assigning climate experts to all relevant EEAS bodies which have a particular role with regard to situation analysis and early warning, such as the Situation Centret of natural disasters on crisis development and political stability and security; calls for the development of common criteria for analysis, risk assessment and the setting-up of a joint alert system;
Amendment 109 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Encourages these bodies to establish permanent structures for systematic relevant EEAS and Commission bodies to enhance their information exchange and coordination on issues related to climate change and natural disasters, with regard to analysis of the security situation and consequent policy planning; urges the relevant EEAS bodies to establish permanent channels of communication and exchange of information with the relevant Commission bodies, notably ECHO, but also with UN agencies and programmes such as UNEP as well as with NATO; points out that the civilian- military structures tasked with responding to climate change-driven crisis and natural disasters need to allow direct and transparent access to allcalls for such enhanced cooperation to be implemented with international partners such as the UN and NATO; notes that civil society and, humanitarian organisations and non- governmental organisations; stresses, therefore, that cooperation and coordination between both the EU and third parties must not be blocked or hinder could also be consulted;
Amendment 111 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22 a (new)
Paragraph 22 a (new)
22a. Urges the Commission to develop contingency plans for the EU's response to the effects of natural disasters and climate-driven crises occurring outside the Union that have direct or indirect security implications on the Union (e.g. climate-driven migration);
Amendment 112 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading 4
Subheading 4
Amendment 113 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
Amendment 116 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Considers that there is an urgent need to main CSDP policy documents could be adapted and modify the main CSDP policy documentsied with regard to climate change and natural disasters implications, such as the EU Concept for Military Planning at the Political and Strategic level11 , the EU Concept for Military Command and Control12 , the EU Concept for Force Generation13 and the EU Military Rapid Response Concept14 , as well as those documents which are relevant for civilian CSDP missions such as the EU concept for comprehensive planning, the EU Concept for Police Planning and Guidelines for Command and Control Structure for EU Civilian Operations in Crisis Management15 ;
Amendment 119 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 25
Paragraph 25
25. Stresses the need to bring in line with specific climate change and natural disasters requirements the relevant policy planning and capabilityIs of the opinion that civilian and military capabilities should be developed in such a way as to allow their deveplopyment documents with regard to military and civilian capabilitiein response to natural disasters; believes that special attention should be paid to the development of military capabilities and in particular the process of pooling and sharing, which started in 2010 and which let to a decision on eleven pooling and sharing projects in November 2011; calls for a greater role of the European Defence Agency in the matter;
Amendment 121 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
Amendment 124 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27
Paragraph 27
27. Stresses the need to elaborate a specific list of military and civilian capabilities which have special relevance for responding to climate change and natural disasters; these include, in particular, air and sea transpor and are especially relevant to CSDP missions; when elaborating this list, particular attention should be paid to the work of the Consultative Group on the Use of Military and Civil Defence Assets; such assets include, inter alia, air and sea operational management, mobile hospitals including intensive care, communication infrastructure, and water purification and engineering capacities; invites the Council and the European Defence Agency (EDA), as part of the 2013 review of the capabilities development programme, to reconcile the current catalogues of civilian and military capabilities with those required in order to meet the challenges of climate change and to put forward the necessary proposals to remedy any existing deficiencies in those catalogues;
Amendment 127 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28
Paragraph 28
28. Stresses the need to explore, on the basis of already existing capacities such as the EU Battle Groups and the European Air Transport Command, the possibility of creating further joint capabilities that are relevant for operations which respond to the impact of climate change or natural disasters; invites the Council, the HR/VP and the EDA to explore the possibility of creating a European Engineer Corps and ways of linking equipment and infrastructure which can be used in such a capacity, in particular, to the ongoing pooling and sharing process;
Amendment 137 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30
Paragraph 30
30. Underlines the urgent need for the EU to use all the instruments at its disposal; calls on the HR/VP and the Commission to use the current legislatmaintaining and further strengthening a comprehensive approcedure ahead of the next multiannual financial perspective 2014-2020 in order to mainstream climate security through all the financial instruments for external assistanceach to mitigating and responding to natural disasters and climate-driven crises through the use of all relevant instruments at the Union's disposal; welcomes the Commission proposal for a renewed Instrument for Stability, which already takes into account the negative impact of climate changenatural disasters on security, peace and political stability;
Amendment 140 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 31
Paragraph 31
Amendment 144 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 32
Paragraph 32
32. Welcomes the idea of creating a post for a UN special envoy for climate security and invites the HR/VP to replicate this idea within the EU, at both Union and national levels, with the appointment of official envoys on climate and security, as the UK Government has already done;
Amendment 149 #
2012/2095(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 33 a (new)
Paragraph 33 a (new)
33a. Is of the opinion that studies on the impact of natural disasters and climate- driven crises on international and European security should be included in the curriculum of the European Security and Defence College;
Amendment 25 #
2012/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas parliamentary scrutiny of EU foreign policy exercised by the European Parliament and national parliaments is essential if European external action is to be understood and supported by EU citizens; whereas parliamentary scrutiny enhances the legitimacy of this action;
Amendment 72 #
2012/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 a (new)
Paragraph 14 a (new)
14 a. Welcomes the agreement on the establishment of the Inter-Parliamentary Conference for the Common Foreign and Security Policy and the Common Security and Defence Policy; is of the opinion that the Inter-Parliamentary Conference will contribute to the development and oversight of the Union's foreign policy, and thus will strengthen the democratic control over it; also believes that the Conference will foster relations and cooperation between the European Parliament and national parliaments;
Amendment 73 #
2012/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Recalls that the revision of the 2006 IIA on budgetary discipline and sound financial management should mark a further step forward in greater transparency and provision of information to the budgetary authority in the area of CFSP and the HR/VP's Declaration on Political Accountability; believes, in this regard, that full transparency and democratic scrutiny require separate budget lines for each and every CSDP missions and operations, including and for each and every EUSRs, accompanied by streamlined but transparent procedures for the transfer of funds from one item to another if circumstances so require; at the same time, is convinced that the necessary flexibility and reactivity required for the CFSP should not be infringed;
Amendment 85 #
2012/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20 a (new)
Paragraph 20 a (new)
20 a. Urges the Commission to start producing annual reports that consolidate information on all external funding in the broad remit (such that is covered by Heading IV and such that may not be confided only to Heading IV) and that offers a breakdown of spending by inter alia beneficiary country, general area of application of the funds, use of financial instruments, commitments and payments, level of participation of partners;
Amendment 109 #
2012/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27
Paragraph 27
27. Reiterates its support for improving the accession process of the Western Balkans by making it more benchmark-driven, transparent and mutually accountable and by introducing clear, specific and transparent quantitative and qualitative indicators measuring the progress of the countries; calls on the EU to continue to prioritise in its enlargement policy conditions such as constructive political dialogue, consolidation of the rule of law, including ensuring the freedom of expression, the effective fight against corruption and organised crime, enhancing the effectiveness and independence of the judiciary, improving administrative capacities and track records in enforcing acquis-related legislation, tackling inter- ethnic and inter-religious tensions, and addressing of the situation of refugees and displaced persons as well as resolution of open bilateral issues;
Amendment 127 #
2012/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29
Paragraph 29
29. Calls for the principles underlying the new European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP) approach, as set out in the HR/VP and Commission Joint Communication of 25 May 2011, and for the ‘more-for-more’ principle and the ‘partnership with society’ in particular, to be fully operational and for Union assistance to be fully aligned to this new approach; recalls that the Joint Communication 'Delivering on a new European Neighbourhood Policy' of 15 May 2012 lists the following challenges faced by the countries of the region: sustainable democracy, inclusive economic development and growth, mobility, sector cooperation, regional cooperation;
Amendment 142 #
2012/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30
Paragraph 30
30. Recalls that the Southern Neighbourhood is of vital importance to the European Union and urges that a better balance be struck between pursuing market-oriented, on the one hand, and human and social approaches on the other in the EU's response to the Arab Spring; calls, therefore, for a greater focus on employment (especially youth unemployment), education, training and regional development in order to help alleviate the current social and economic crisis in these countries, and to provide adequathe assistance needed to support the ongoing political reforms and social and economic development; underlines the importance of supporting institutional capacity-building, including for the parliaments of these countries, an independent judicial system, the strengthening of civil-society organisations and the formation of pluralist political parties within a secular system;
Amendment 176 #
2012/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 34
Paragraph 34
34. Calls for greater efforts towards achieving the objectives of the Eastern Partnership, as stated in the Prague Declaration and the Warsaw Summit Conclusions, and recalled in the Joint Communication 'Eastern Partnership: A Roadmap to the Autumn 2013 Summit' of 15 May 2012, namely political association and economic integration, enhanced mobility of citizens in a secure and well- managed environment, strengthened sector cooperation; is of the opinion that the Union should particularly by pursuinge the negotiations on, and conclusions of, Association Agreements with the Eastern Partners, by promotinge mobility through mobility partnerships and visa dialogues, by ensuringe continued progress in adoption and implementation of reforms, in close association with the EURONEST Parliamentary Assembly;
Amendment 206 #
2012/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 38
Paragraph 38
38. Considers Russia as an important strategic partner, but continues to have concerns regarding Russia's commitment to the rule of law, pluralist democracy and human rights; urges Russia to pursue constructive and positive relations with the EU through the various established fora of cooperation; is critical of the use of energy supplies as a bargaining tool in the relations between the EU and Russia;
Amendment 232 #
2012/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 41
Paragraph 41
41. Notes that the overall situation in human rights, labour rights, especially forced child labour in the sphere of agriculture, lack of support for civil society and the status of the rule of law remain worrying; calls for the human rights dialogues to be strengthened and made more effective and result-oriented, with the close cooperation and involvement of civil society organisations in the preparation, monitoring and implementation of such dialogues; calls on the EU and HR/VP to raise publicly the cases of political prisoners and imprisoned human rights defenders and journalists and to call for their immediate release; calls for the Rule of Law Initiative to improve transparency towards civil-society organisations and to include clear objectives to make possible a transparent assessment of its implementation and results; calls on the Commission and the EEAS to continue supporting public sector reform in the region as well as their engagement with the governments of the countries to encourage the free operation of opposition parties;
Amendment 241 #
2012/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 43
Paragraph 43
43. Is concerned at the resurgence in violence following the breakdown in peace negotiations; highlights the importance of a sub-regional Central Asian approach to tackling cross-border trafficking in people and goods and to fighting organised crime and terrorism; calls for stepped-up support for building the capacity of the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and the National Security Forces as well as for helping the wider population with agricultural and socio- economic development in order for the country to assume full responsibility for security after completion of the transfer of internal security to the Afghan forces by the end of 2014; is of the opinion that the EU should also provide particular support in the sphere of education, especially professional training, which will contribute to the establishment of a more viable economy;
Amendment 289 #
2012/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 54
Paragraph 54
54. Calls for the EU to be morehave greater and stronger presentce in the Asia-Pacific region, in particular by contributing its experience and expertise to the multilateral initiatives in and around ASEAN and to the progressive emergence of increased Trans- Pacific initiatives; stresses that economic and cultural cross- fertilisation should be given higher priority, in particular by fostering direct investment opportunities and making access for students and researchers easier and more attractive; notes that this implies a strategic coordination of Member States and EU efforts, as opposed to parallel and competing national policies; notes that in the tense regional context, with territorial disputes around the South China Sea, the EU as a neutral partner should be an active proponent of a stable, peaceful solution based on multilateral institutions;
Amendment 297 #
2012/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 55
Paragraph 55
55. Calls for the EU to be more active in South Asia in support of democratic developments and improvementreforms in the area of governance and the rule of law; welcomes, therefore, the commitment to a democratic and secular Pakistan; calls on the EU to seek closer cooperation with India, free from reciprocal post-colonial prejudices and aiming at the promotion of common values in the region and in multilateral fora;
Amendment 323 #
2012/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 59
Paragraph 59
59. Considering that effective multilateralism is a cornerstone of EU foreign policy, calls for the EU to take a leading role in international cooperation and to advance global action by the international community; encourages the EU to further promote synergies within the UN system, to act as a bridge-builder at the UN and to engage globally with regional organisations and strategic partners; expresses its support for the continuation of the UN reform; calls for the EU to contribute to sound financial management and budgetary discipline with regard to UN resources;
Amendment 338 #
2012/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 63
Paragraph 63
63. Notes that the current global and European economic crisis has spurred efforts to seek more cost-effective and urgently required operational capabilities in both the EU and NATO; calls, therefore, for the HR/VP to be more proactive in promoting further concrete proposals for organisation-to-organisation improvementcooperation, including through the European Defence Agency (with smart defence, pooling and sharing and a comprehensive approach as guiding principles); calls on Turkey for an urgent solution to the blockage on cooperation under the ‘Berlin Plus’ arrangements, which are damaging the prospects for the two organisations to cooperate effectively, including on the ground, where the lives of European citizens may be endangered;
Amendment 346 #
2012/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 64
Paragraph 64
64. Underlines the importance of the monitoring procedures of the Council of Europe as a major contribution to assessing progress by neighbouring countries in achieving democratic reforms; calls on the Commission and the EEAS to consider using CoE monitoring and assessment reports in conducting their own assessments and policy developments when applicable;
Amendment 354 #
2012/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 67
Paragraph 67
67. AcknowledgWelcomes the increasingly important role of the Arab League in regional matters, recognises the crucial role played by the organisation in Libya and Syria, and calls on the EU to strengthen cooperation, especially on questions related to transition processes and crisis management in the Southern Neighbourhood; welcomes EU efforts tourges the EU to continue assisting the Arab League in its integration process;
Amendment 362 #
2012/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 69
Paragraph 69
69. Reiterates its call for the HR/VP, the Council and the Member States to overcome the imbalance between civilian and military planning capabilities in the EEAS and the general difficulty in achieving staffing requirements for CSDP missions and operations, in particular for staff in the fields of justice, civilian administration, customs and mediation, so as to ensure that adequate and sufficient expertise can be provided for CSDP missions; calls for the HR/VP to come forward with specific proposals for making up these staffing shortages, in particular in the area of civilian crisis management and the sectors described above; is of the opinion that any reduction of funding of CSDP missions should be conducted only after a careful impact assessment of such a reduction;
Amendment 387 #
2012/2050(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 74
Paragraph 74
74. Notes that Article 194 of the Lisbon Treaty specifies that the EU is entitled to take measures at European level to ensure security of energy supply; believes that diversification of supply sources and transit routes is urgent and essential for the EU, which is highly dependent on external sources of energy; notes that the main directions for diversification are North Africa and the Southern Corridor from Turkey to Central Asia, and calls on the Commission to prioritise such projects; believes that it should be ensured that the current main source of imports – Russia – complies with internal market rules, regulations under the Third Energy package and the Energy Charter Treaty.;
Amendment 1 #
2012/2025(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Recalls that a streamlined, forward- looking enlargement policy could be a valuable strategic tool for the EU's and the region's economic development, and should aim to create budgetary synergies with national and European measures andbetween measures of the EU, Member States and international financial institutions, as well as with existing instruments by avoiding any potential overlap, especially in a constrained budgetary environment;
Amendment 6 #
2012/2025(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Urges the Commission to plan a non- decrease in real terms of overall funding for each beneficiary; notes that this calculation should be made while taking into consideration that: first of all, cumulative real GDP growth for the period 2007-2013 of each beneficiary country, except Croatia, would range between 10 and 30%1; second of all, the number of countries with access to funding of the future Instrument decreases with the accession of Croatia which potentially changes the comparative distribution within the pool of funding; third of all, with suggested changes to the new Instrument to remove differentiation between countries based on their candidacy status, more countries would have access to funding in policy areas focusing on socio-economic development previously inaccessible for countries without a candidate status; in that context, recommends that no beneficiary is precluded from sufficient and fair access to funding due to limited EU resources, especially in the policy area of institution-building; __________________ 1 Own estimates, based on DG-Budget figures and forecasts for candidate countries; in addition, forecasts for real growth of potential candidates based on reports from an independent forecasting entity
Amendment 10 #
2012/2025(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Highlights the systemic importance of national fiscal stability and the increased EU focus on economic governance within the realms of European legislation; thus, recommends that the pre-accession dialogue addresses the role of sound public finances; also recommends that the goals of the enlargement policy are carefully aligned to reflect the growth-oriented EU agenda to modernise the economy, boost competitiveness, improve conditions for SMEs and tackle youth unemployment;
Amendment 12 #
2012/2025(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Insists that candidate countries should make full use of the learning curve and period of exposure to the instrument for pre-accession assistance in order to improve their administrative capacity and ensure a successful absorption of EU funds;
Amendment 14 #
2012/2025(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4 b (new)
Paragraph 4 b (new)
4b. Underlines the importance of providing a sufficient level of resources for both pre- and post-accession assistance, highlighting that adequate allocations of funds early in the process should create the necessary institutional and economic conditions for a lesser involvement at a later stage;
Amendment 30 #
2012/2025(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas the 1993 Copenhagen summit affirmed the prospects for membership of the countries in Central and Eastern Europe and set the criteria for accession; whereas the 2002 Copenhagen summit confirmed the European perspective of the countries of the Western Balkans; whereas the 2003 Thessaloniki summit set an agenda for the Western Balkans; whereas 20 years after the 1993 Copenhagen summit the moment has come for a general re-evaluation of the accession criteria, of the established procedures and of enlargement policy as a whole; whereas Parliament contributes to improving the transparency and accountability of enlargement and thereby increasing public support for this process;
Amendment 41 #
2012/2025(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital E
Recital E
E. whereas the prospect of accession has a significantpositive impact on the socio-political, economic and cultural landscape of the countries wishing to join, and acts as a powerful incentive and catalyst for pursuing the necessary political, economic and legislative reforms and the strengthening of peace, stability and reconciliation based on good neighbourly relations; whereas this makes enlargement the essence of the EU's soft power and an important element of its external action;
Amendment 55 #
2012/2025(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas, in line with the renewed consensus on enlargement of 2006, this process should be based on consolidation, conditionality and communication, combined with the EU's capacity to integrate new members; whereas the integration capacity of the EU is a major consideration and a prerequisite for the sustainability of enlargement policy and the overall integration process; whereas this consideration has been a positive incentive for institutional deepening, as demonstrated by the consecutive treaty revisions that have accompanied the different waves of enlargement, extending the functions and activities of the Union;
Amendment 76 #
2012/2025(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Considers that the Copenhagen criteria continue to represent a valuable basis and should remain at the heart of enlargement policy; underlinehighlights, however, the need to keep the economic subcriteria up to date in line wisystematic importance of national fiscal stability and the increased EU focus on economic governance; thus, recommends that the pre-accession dialogue addresses the recent developole of sound public finances; recommentds in the sphere of economic governance, while taking due account of their social implications for the candidate and potential candidate countriesfurther that the goals of the enlargement policy are carefully aligned to reflect a growth-oriented EU agenda to modernise the economy, boost competitiveness, improve conditions for SMEs and tackle youth unemployment; recommends that progress on the flagship initiatives of Europe 2020 is included in the pre- accession dialogue, since the programme is built around universal principles that are a strong driver for economic well- being;
Amendment 92 #
2012/2025(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Points out that the EU continues to be attractive, also because of its unique combination of economic dynamism with a social model, and regretnotes that this social dimension has been largely neglected in the enlargement process; invites the Commission to reflect on possible options, including developing a set of social criteria, to address this deficiency and foster positive social transformation in the future EU Member States; stresses that failure to comply with the EU's common basic social standards constitutes a form of social dumping which is detrimental to European enterprises and workers;
Amendment 118 #
2012/2025(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Takes the view that strict conditionality requires that the progress of a country is effectively assessed at every stage of the process, and that countries wishing to join the EU should proceed from one stage to the next only once all the conditions have been met at each stage; notes, however, certain tendencies to exaggeration, and recommends avoiding requiring of candidate and potential candidate countries higher standards than those applying in the EU; stresses the importance of setting transparent and fair benchmarks to measure whether the abovementioned conditions have been met throughout the process;
Amendment 129 #
2012/2025(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Believes that, in order to maintain the credibility of the enlargement process, the EU's integration capacity should be evaluated at an early stage and should be properly considered during the Commission's ‘opinion’ for each potential candidate state, outlining the major concerns in this regardnegotiation process, taking into account ongoing socio- economic developments in the Union; is of the viewopinion that a comprehensive impact assessment should then followof the accession of each 'potential candidate' country should be conducted when status is upgraded to a 'candidate' country;
Amendment 146 #
2012/2025(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8
Paragraph 8
8. Considers it important to give adequate priority within enlargement policy to the building of an efficient, independent and impartial judicial system that can strengthen the citizens' confidence in the rule of law; underlines, at the same time, the need to ensure freedom of the media in law and in practice, as well as to effectively fight corruption and organised crime;
Amendment 184 #
2012/2025(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10
Paragraph 10
10. Strongly believes in the need to promote a climate of tolerance, good neighbourly relations and regional and cross-border cooperation, as prerequisites for stability and as means of facilitating reconciliation; considers that the prosecution of war crimes and the reintegration of refugees and displaced persons must be fundamental elements of the accession process in regions with a recent history of conflict;
Amendment 222 #
2012/2025(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13
Paragraph 13
13. Takes note of initiatives such as the positive agenda on Turkey and, the high- level accession dialogue with the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia and the structured dialogue on the rule of law with Kosovo1; welcomes the aim of creating a fresh dynamic in the reform process, but stresses that these initiatives must in no way replace the formal negotiation procedures; __________________ 1 Without prejudice to positions on status and in line with UNSCR No 1244/1999 and the Opinion of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on the Kosovo Declaration of Independence.
Amendment 240 #
2012/2025(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Supports the Commission's commitment to improving the quality of the accession process by making it more benchmark-driven and transparent; takes the view that this will make the process fairer and more objectively measurable, thus further enhancing its credibility; in this context, recommends that the progress reports should be more assertive and clearer in their demands; stresses that the benchmarks should not set additional conditions for the candidate and potential candidate countries, but should translate the general membership criteria and the objectives of the EU's pre-accession assistance into concrete steps and results towards accession;
Amendment 258 #
2012/2025(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18
Paragraph 18
18. Strongly believes that the EU can still attain great strategic benefits through enlargement policy; emphasises that EU membership represents a stable anchor in the swiftly changing international environment, and that ‘belonging to the club’ continues to offer hope forguarantee stability and prosperity, despite the ongoing economic crisis; is of the opinion that enlargement is a long-term strategic concept, which cannot necessarily be measured in terms of short-term balance sheets; considers it important to take due account of its value aspolicy that representings soft but nevertheless essential power for the EU;
Amendment 269 #
2012/2025(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
19. Remains fully committed to the prospect of enlargement, and calls on the Member States to maintain the momentum of the enlargement process by reconfirming the European perspective of every candidate and potential candidate country, notwithstanding the requirement of strict compliance with the Copenhagen criteria; stresses its conviction that with the Lisbon Treaty the EU can both pursue its enlargement agenda and maintain the impetus of deeper integration;
Amendment 278 #
2012/2025(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Recalls that the process is not concluded with the simple transposition of the acquis, and stresses the importance of their effective implementation and respect in the long term; considers that in order to maintain the credibility of the accession conditions, existing Member States should also be assessed for their continued compliance with the EU's fundamental values and the fulfilment of their commitments concerning the functioning of democratic institutions and the rule of law; calls on the Commission to work out a detailed proposal for a monitoring mechanism, building on the provisions of Article 7 TEU and Article 258 TFEU;
Amendment 11 #
2012/2016(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Notes the proposal to contain increases for appropriations under the European Neighbourhood Instrument, addressing the needs of countries facing major political and economical changes; welcomes the focus on the Eastern Partnership but considers the Commission’s reporting on the application of the ‘more for more’ principle to be insufficient; notes the EUR 80 million allocated for the SPRING programme but considers that allocations to this programme should be increased further in order to intensify EU-Southern Mediterranean relations; is critical of the 3.2% reduction of commitment appropriations to the Mediterranean countries in 2013;
Amendment 20 #
2012/2016(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Stresses that further efforts should be made to provide sensible and user-friendly information on the Union’s programmes and actions; in this regard, is of the opinion that the Commission should start producing annual reports that consolidate information on all external funding in the broad remit (such that is covered by Heading IV and such that may not be confined only to Heading IV) and that offers a breakdown of spending by inter alia beneficiary country, general area of application of the funds, use of financial instruments, commitments and payments, level of participation of partners;
Amendment 23 #
2012/2016(BUD)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Reiterates its concerns regarding the parliamentary scrutiny and transparency of the CFSP budget; firmly believes that a clear breakdown should be made of all items financed within the CFSP budget, including for each CSDP operations, for each EU special representatives and for each other attendant policiesy, convinced that this will not infringe on the necessary flexibility and reactivity required for the CFSP; calls on the Commission to provide, without delay, the rationale for using allocations from the CFSP budget, rather than from the budget of the External Action Service, to finance the outlays for EU Special Representatives; is of the conviction that any reduction of funding of CSDP missions should be conducted only after a careful impact assessment of such a reduction;
Amendment 135 #
2012/2016(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 52
Paragraph 52
52. Considers that a sufficient level of EU financial assistance to the Palestinian Authority and UNRWA is still needed in order to adequately and comprehensively respond to the political and humanitarian situation in the Middle East and the Peace Process; notes that the net effect of the increase in commitments for ENPI is mainly due to continued support to the occupied Palestinian territory at the level of the 2012 Draft Budget;
Amendment 139 #
2012/2016(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 54
Paragraph 54
54. Calls on the Commission to update the multi-annual indicative financial framework (MIFF) accordingly to reflect the inclusion of Serbia as a candidate country under IPA; reminds that the change in candidacy status is seen as a significant amendment to the MIFF and should normally be revised before its annual revision in the autumn; Acknowledges the fact that with the accession of Croatia to the Union, a reduction of EUR 67,6 million will be made to IPA allocations; is nevertheless concerned that the Commission proposes a significantlarger cut in support for institutional capacity building for candidate countries than expected with the reduction of IPA allocations for Croatia (- 29,14 million EUR in total as compared to 2012), while the same line for potential candidates is reinforced (+10,5 million EUR compared to 2012); reminds that institutional capacity is of utmost importance for the rightful use of Union funding and is equally important for candidates and potential candidates; notes the proposed increase in CA for IPA rural development of 10,2% compared to Budget 2012;
Amendment 141 #
2012/2016(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 55
Paragraph 55
55. Reiterates that especially in times of austerity commitment appropriations should be carefully planned for each CFSP budgetary line in order to guarantee that EU money is streamlined towards the measures where it is mostly needed, as much as possible taking into consideration the flexibility and unpredictability of CFSP operations; in this context, welcomes calls for greater synergies by inter alia pooling, sharing and integration of capabilities and through improved performance, planning and conducting of missions and operations; welcomes efforts for a transparent and complete overview of all CFSP missions; will carefully analyse the increase of 9,2% in CA for CFSP in 2013;
Amendment 1 #
2012/2015(DEC)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. SNotes the delays in the implementation of pre-accession assistance; welcomes the progress achieved in addressing the issue, and urges the Commission and Croatia's authorities to continue improving the speed of implementing assistance, especially by strengthening capacity- building; stresses that capacity-building in the framework of pre-accession assistance should target central institutions as well as regional and local structures; is concerned that, in the case of Croatia, insufficient attention to the latter may result in them lacking adequate administrative capacity and experience to implement EU assistance;
Amendment 45 #
2012/2001(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 14 a (new)
Paragraph 14 a (new)
14 a. Recognises the short period of time for an effective and fully functional roll- out of EEAS; however, calls on the Service to explore opportunities for creating budgetary synergies such as co- location, joint procurement and pooling and sharing of resources with Member States, where applicable.
Amendment 82 #
2012/2000(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Expects, in view of the upcoming accession of Croatia on 1 July 2013, that the revision of the MFF will be adopted swiftly, in line with Point 29 of the IIA (‘Adjustment of the financial framework to cater for enlargement’) and asks the Commission to present its proposal for the corresponding additional appropriations as soon as the Act of Accession has been ratified by all Member Statesplanned for early 2012; repeats that the enlargement to include Croatia should be accompanied by appropriate additional funding with fresh money rather than redeployments for the second part of 2013;
Amendment 4 #
2011/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 10 a (new)
Citation 10 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 5 #
2011/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 11 a (new)
Citation 11 a (new)
– having regard to the Foreign Affairs Council Conclusions on the European Endowment for Democracy adopted on December 1st 2011, at its 3130th meeting,
Amendment 6 #
2011/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 12 a (new)
Citation 12 a (new)
– having regard to the letter of support to the establishment of the EED to EP President Jerzy Buzek and HR/VP Catherine Ashton dated November 25, 2011,
Amendment 11 #
2011/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
Ba. whereas the European Parliament welcomed the initiative of establishment of the European Endowment for Democracy in the report by Véronique De Keyser, on behalf of the Committee on Foreign Affairs, on EU external policies in favour of democratisation (2011/2032(INI));
Amendment 12 #
2011/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B b (new)
Recital B b (new)
Bb. whereas the establishment of the EED was supported in the letter to EP President Jerzy Buzek and HR/VP Catherine Ashton by several high profile human rights defenders including Sakharov Prize laureates Aung San Suu Kyi and Alaksandr Milinkievic;
Amendment 15 #
2011/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas the events of the ‘Arab Spring’ demonstrated the need for a more informed and strategic engagement on the part of the EU with countries striving for democratic reforms, based on a new approach designed to restore credibility; whereas setting up the European Endowment for Democracy could be one of the most tangible responses of the EU to the challenges of democratisation in our neighbourhood and beyond;
Amendment 29 #
2011/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G a (new)
Recital G a (new)
Ga. whereas the Foreign Affairs Council has endorsed the initiative of creating an European Endowment for Democracy (EED); whereas work is proceeding swiftly towards its establishment and there is urgent need to reach agreement on the detailed operational questions;
Amendment 41 #
2011/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point b
Paragraph 1 – point b
(b) ensure that the EED fosters andwhile encouragesing ‘deep and sustainable democracy’ in pre- transition, transition and post- transition countries, with a primary, although not exclusive, focus on the European Neighbourhoodll receive a focused mandate allowing it to complement democracy support measures of other instruments and underlining the added- value of the new entity;
Amendment 49 #
2011/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point b a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point b a (new)
(ba) gain valuable experiences by a initial, although not exclusive, focus on the European Neighbourhood;
Amendment 51 #
2011/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point b b (new)
Paragraph 1 – point b b (new)
(bb) enable the EED to develop effective ways to deal with pre-transition, transition, and post transition countries;
Amendment 55 #
2011/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point d
Paragraph 1 – point d
(d) ensure that the EED plays a role which complements and does not overlap with or curtail the activities of existing funding instruments, particularly the EIDHR; where appropriate, the EED should launch projects which can later be continued by the EIDHR, creating an interface with the EIDHR so as to or geographic instruments, creating a programming interface that will ensure coherence and sustainability in the longer term;
Amendment 63 #
2011/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point e
Paragraph 1 – point e
(e) enable the EED to act in the early stages ofree stages: pre-transition, transition and post transition, to kick-start projects which thus far could not be supported by the EU owing to bureaucratic restrictions; and model the EED in such a way that it is less risk-averse while respecting the financial regulations and legal restrictions of its donors;
Amendment 71 #
2011/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point f
Paragraph 1 – point f
(f) address, in the early stages of funding in a specific country, a wide group of potential beneficiaries, including key political players (emerging political actors, fledgling political parties, grassroots movements and non-registered NGOs, trade unions), watchdogs, whistleblowers, individual dissidents, politically involved artists, media outlets and think tanks, etc., in order to enable the EED to support a wide variety of actors striving for democratic reforms; provide support to the above-mentioned in a pluralist manner, while at the same time avoiding any direct political party funding;
Amendment 79 #
2011/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point f a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point f a (new)
(fa) To ensure that enough focus is placed, at all stages of operation of the EED, to the engagement of women and youth, as well as to innovative ways to use and render available social media;
Amendment 83 #
2011/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point g
Paragraph 1 – point g
(g) enable the EED to award grants directly to the intended beneficiaries and re-grant financial resources through non-profit entities, such as foundations and NGOs; particularly at the beginning, re-granting will be an effective mechanism to enable the EED to work with partners on the ground that have the requisite knowledge and local infrastructure and enjoy the trust of local people; re-granting would also limit the administrative burden of the EED and potential risks;
Amendment 98 #
2011/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point j
Paragraph 1 – point j
(j) ensure that the EED has robust links and consults regularly with beneficiary groups, but without having regional offices, relying instead on local organisations or independent experts and practitioners;
Amendment 104 #
2011/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point k a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point k a (new)
(ka) respect responsibilities towards individual donors and common accounting standards when public funds are channelled via an administratively flexible structure;
Amendment 113 #
2011/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point m
Paragraph 1 – point m
(m) endow the European Parliament with a broad political oversight role over EED activities, inter alia by ensuring that Parliament is kept informed through the presentation of the EED’s annual reportsthe full democratic right of budgetary control for the entire EED budget and assure that the implementation of measures by the EED is thoroughly and independently monitored and evaluated;
Amendment 120 #
2011/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point m a (new)
Paragraph 1 – point m a (new)
(ma) allow for sufficient space of the European Parliament to share its creative power and transnational experience from European Member States in support to democratisation processes beyond Europe's borders;
Amendment 130 #
2011/2245(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 – point o
Paragraph 1 – point o
(o) review after one year of activities the impact and performance of the EED and its complementary and added-value to EU instruments and their new set-up in the forthcoming financial period;
Amendment 4 #
2011/2191(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3 a (new)
Paragraph 3 a (new)
3a. Endorses the Commission's conclusions presented in the Progress Report on Croatia; welcomes the good overall progress that Croatia has made, particularly in the fields of judiciary and fundamental rights, competition as well as justice, freedom and security;
Amendment 6 #
2011/2191(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Remains, nevertheless, concerned about Croatia'Encourages Croatia to further develop its administrative and absorption capacitiesy in the face of the prospect oflight of the upcoming full membership and the ensuing implementation of structural and agricultural policies; recalls that the substantial increase in funds to be implemented can only be monitored and managed on the basis of an improvement in those capacities at both theaccess to the funds of the EU abides by strict financial regulations which calls for a sustainable improvement of monitoring and management at central, and the regional and local, levels;
Amendment 8 #
2011/2191(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Points out that Croatia has not yet recovered from the economic recession affecting the country; notes that despite the 2010 economic stimulus programme unemployment, and in particular youth unemployment, continued to rise; calls on the Commission to press for a Croatian labour-market solution;
Amendment 9 #
2011/2191(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Welcomes the growing effectiveness of the fight against corruption, including actions taken against a number of former leading politicians and officials; notes, however, that corruption is still regarded by the Commission as prevalent in some areas and that there is further progress to be made in the fight against corruption; supports, as well as introduction of new improved laws regarding access to information, conflict of interests and the financing of political activities; encourages further consolidation of the efforts in this area including all the necessary commitments and legal, administrative and auditing measures that the Croatian authorities will take to that end, including inespecially with regards to the protection of the EU's financial interests and control of EU funding;
Amendment 12 #
2011/2191(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Calls for improvements in the quality of internal auditing in the area of public financial control and further progress in combating the forging of euro banknotes, with a view to achieving the objective of the systematic detection and notification of cases of fraud;
Amendment 16 #
2011/2191(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Takes note of the position of the European Union on the financial and budgetary provisions, as defined in the Conference on the Accession of Croatia, and based on an accession date of 1 July 2013; notes that the required financial envelopes for Croatia's accession, by heading and sub-heading of the budget, for the last semester of the last financial year of the current MFF, would substantially increase theincrease the expenditure in the EU budget; notes that the allocation for Croatia reserved under IPA will be reduced from the amounts originally foreseen for 2013 which, to a certain exptenditure it, offsets the net impact on the EU budget;
Amendment 19 #
2011/2191(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 12
Paragraph 12
12. Regards such potential redeployments of appropriations from existing instruments and priorities not only as detrimental to the EU's capacity to implement its policies properly, but also as an act of political and moral disregard for Croatia process which would not fully correspond to Croatia's future status as a member of the EU;
Amendment 20 #
2011/2191(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 12 a (new)
Paragraph 12 a (new)
12a. Calls for increased use of the financial instruments that support SMEs, infrastructure development and the business environment as part of the multi- beneficiary programmes across the Western Balkans; notes that regional cooperation is of utmost importance for the economic development of and fruitful cooperation with Croatia's neighbouring countries;
Amendment 38 #
2011/2191(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Calls on the Government of Croatia to continue to implement the recommendations of the Commission and to regularly evaluate the progress of reforms before and after the accession of the country to the European Union;
Amendment 42 #
2011/2191(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
6. Encourages Croatia to continue to implement judiciary reforms because an efficient, independent and impartial judicial system is an important element for economic development and sustainable democracy and strengthens citizens’ confidence in the rule of law;
Amendment 47 #
2011/2191(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7
Paragraph 7
7. Considers it one of the highest priorities to combat corruption, particularly high- level corruption, corruption at every level of the judiciary, law-enforcement agencies and the public administration, as well as large-scale corruption and corruption in state-owned companies, which must be pursued with determination at all levels, by rigorous enforcement of the law and a track record of successful prosecutions; calls on the Croatian authorities to further strengthen the administrative capacities of anti- corruption bodies and foster a culture of political, public sector and judicial accountability;
Amendment 53 #
2011/2191(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7a. Invites the Government of Croatia to continue reforms that increase the transparency of party financing as an important element of political accountability;
Amendment 54 #
2011/2191(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 b (new)
Paragraph 7 b (new)
7b. Invites the Government of Croatia to increase its efforts in the fight against organized crime and to strengthen legislation that forbids companies, related to criminal organizations, to participate in public procurement;
Amendment 55 #
2011/2191(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 c (new)
Paragraph 7 c (new)
7c. Urges the Government of Croatia to continue reforming law-enforcement agencies with the goal of making them efficient, effective, depoliticised and respectful of civil rights and freedoms;
Amendment 62 #
2011/2191(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8a. Calls on the Government of Croatia to actively provide support for impartial domestic prosecutions and trials for war crimes as an important step in the fight against impunity;
Amendment 83 #
2011/2191(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 11
Paragraph 11
11. As the Croatian economy is still vulnerable and exposed to risks, calls on Croatia’s Government to address the structural weaknesses of the economy, to stimulate employment by reviving the labour market, which is rigid, and to pursue fiscal consolidation in order to boost competitiveness, to enable Croatia to catch up with EU Member States and to fully benefit from EU accession; urges the Government to pay particular attention to small and medium-sized enterprises and to support them by providing better access to long-term financing, improving the regulatory framework and overcoming inefficiency in the public administration; encourages the Government to improve the overall business environment, including by decreasing the administrative burden;
Amendment 19 #
2011/2184(INI)
Draft Agreement
Part I - paragraph 10 - subparagraph 2
Part I - paragraph 10 - subparagraph 2
The annual amount of the Reserve is fixed at EUR 350 million (2011 prices) and can be used up to year n+1 in accordance with the Financial Regulation. The portion of the annual amount from year n which is not used may be used throughout the entire duration of the Multiannual Financial Framework. The Reserve is entered in the general budget of the European Union as a provision. The portion of the annual amount stemming from previous years shall be drawn on first, in order of age. The portion of the annual amount from year n which is not used in year n+1 shall lapse.
Amendment 24 #
2011/2184(INI)
Draft Agreement
Part II - paragraph 21 - subparagraph 1 - indent 2 a (new)
Part II - paragraph 21 - subparagraph 1 - indent 2 a (new)
- for the Commission, if needed, the Director-General or Director of relevant Directorates-General.
Amendment 25 #
2011/2184(INI)
Draft Agreement
Part II - paragraph 21 - subparagraph 2
Part II - paragraph 21 - subparagraph 2
Amendment 26 #
2011/2184(INI)
The Council shall seek the views of the European Parliament on the main aspects and basic choices of the CFSP, including by ensuring that it receives sufficient information prior to significant CFSP decisions with financial implications for it to make informed recommendations. The European Parliament may provide political guidance for decisions leading to the launch of CSDP missions, the revision of their mandate and their termination.
Amendment 131 #
2011/2177(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 26
Paragraph 26
26. Takes note of the ‘Smart Defence’ initiative within NATO and highlights the importance of continuous coordination and deconfliction between the EU and NATO at all levels to avoid unnecessary duplication; calls on EU defence ministers to fulfil their obligations to the development of EU policies and capabilities despite their countries' membership in NATO;
Amendment 160 #
2011/2177(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 37
Paragraph 37
37. Recognises that the likely consequence of restructuring will be the abandonment of some non-viable national industrial capacities, which may lead to employment concerns; calls for a better use of EU funding, such as the European Social Fund and European Globalisation Adjustment Fund, to support anticipation and adaptation to change; is of the opinion that such restructuring should be presented and explained to the defence business, including SMEs that are involved in the development of EU military capabilities;
Amendment 67 #
2011/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Believes that the interdependence between, on the one hand, the emerged powers and, on the other, the BRICS and other emerging powers maintains a relevant economic dimension, but is essentially political, as both the emerged and the emerging powers share an interest in ensuring an effective system of global governance and in tackling together those global stability and security risks which may curb the global growth potential; calls for enhanced cooperation between the European Union and the BRICS on matters of international concern, such as, but not limited to, economic policy, trade relations, climate change, sustainable development, crises management;
Amendment 80 #
2011/2111(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Strongly rejects the contention that, in view of the emergence of new economic and foreign policy powers and potential rivals, the West should agree to relinquish its leadership and focus on managing its decline; contends, rather, that the West and, in particular, the EU should focus on achieving the necessary economies of scale and develop concerted efforts to enable it to interact with the emerging powers constructively and effectively; calls on the European Union and its Member States to encourage and facilitate partnerships between EU SMEs and SMEs from the BRICS; points out to the need to develop an inclusive system of global governance based on cooperation and coordination with the BRICS and other emerging countries, as appropriate; points further to the key role of the West and, particularly, the EU in promoting an inclusive system of global governance such as this;
Amendment 1 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 2
Citation 2
– having regard to the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide that entered into force on 12 January 1951,
Amendment 3 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 5
Citation 5
– having regard to the Council Common Position 2003/444/CFSP of 16 June 2003 on the International Criminal Court7 ,
Amendment 5 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 7 a (new)
Citation 7 a (new)
- having regard to the Agreement between the International Criminal Court and the European Union on cooperation and assistance1, __________________ 1 OJ L 115, 28.4.2006, p.50
Amendment 6 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 9
Citation 9
– having regard to the Stockholm Programme 2010-2014 entitled ‘An Open and Secure Europe Serving and Protecting Citizens’ (December 2009)10 and the Action Plan implementing the Stockholm Programme (April 2010)11, __________________ 10 OJ C 115, 4.5.2010, p. 4. 11 COM (2010) 171 final
Amendment 9 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 9 a (new)
Citation 9 a (new)
- having regard to Council Decision 2002/494/JHA of 13 June 2002 setting up a European network of contact points in respect of persons responsible for genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes,2 and Council Decision 2003/335/JHA of 8 May 2003 on the investigation and prosecution of genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes3, __________________ 2 OJ 167 of 26.6.2002, p. 1 3 OJ L 118 of 14.5.2003, p.12
Amendment 10 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 10
Citation 10
– having regard to the relevant UN Security Council rResolutions, in particular the Sudan/Darfur 1593 (2005) and Libya 1593 (2005) on Sudan/Darfur and Resolution 1970 (2011) referralson Libya,
Amendment 15 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital -A a (new)
Recital -A a (new)
-Aa. whereas as of September 2011 117 states have ratified the Rome Statute; nevertheless achieving its universal ratification should remain a primary objective,
Amendment 21 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital D
Recital D
D. whereas the Rome Statute of the ICC makesICC is the first permanent international judicial body capable of trying individuals for genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes and the crime of aggression, thus making a decisive contribution to the upholding of human rights, to international law and to the fight against impunity, and playing a crucial deterrent role and sending a clear signal that impunity for crimes against humanity, genocide and warthese crimes will not be tolerated,
Amendment 37 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital G
Recital G
G. whereas the ICC is currently conducting investigations in seven countries (Uganda, Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Darfur region of Sudan, Central African Republic, Kenya and Libya), and the ICC prosecutor has recently requested the opening of an eighth investigation in Côte d'Ivoire, and has publicly announced that he is analyzing information regarding alleged crimes committed in several other situations,
Amendment 47 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital H
Recital H
H. whereas a large number of the 18 ICC arrest warrants are still pending, including those against the Sudanese President al- Bashir and the Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi,
Amendment 51 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J
Recital J
J. whereas the Court's aim is to deliver justice for victims and affected communities in a comprehensive manner, including through participation, protection, legal representation and outreach activities,
Amendment 54 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J a (new)
Recital J a (new)
Ja. whereas the system of reparations for the victims of the crimes within the competences of the Court makes the ICC a unique judicial institution on the international level,
Amendment 55 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J b (new)
Recital J b (new)
Jb. whereas the success of the reparation proceedings starting in 2011 depends on the voluntary contributions by donors, as well as on the collection of fines and forfeiture from the convicted persons,
Amendment 56 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K
Recital K
K. whereas the Court is currently forced to deal with a rapidly increasing number of investigations, cases and preliminary examinations, while the annual budget is incommensurate with needs, remains unchanged and may even be decreased, and the Court is increasingly subjected to unfair, politically motivated attacks,
Amendment 58 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital K a (new)
Recital K a (new)
Ka. whereas the ICC is a judicial, not a political, institution but is unfortunately increasingly subjected to unfair, politically motivated attacks,
Amendment 61 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital L a (new)
Recital L a (new)
La. whereas the fight against impunity can only succeed when all state-parties cooperate fully with the ICC, and when non-parties also provide assistance to the judicial institution,
Amendment 62 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Subheading 1
Subheading 1
Amendment 66 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 a (new)
Paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. Urges parties and non-parties to the Rome Statute to refrain from exercising political pressure on the Court in order to preserve and guarantee its impartiality and to allow for justice based on law, not political consideration, to take place;
Amendment 73 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 b (new)
Paragraph 1 b (new)
1b. Follow-up on the Kampala conference (New heading)
Amendment 74 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 1 c (new)
Paragraph 1 c (new)
Amendment 75 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. RecommendsWelcomes the fact that the EU and itsmost Member States fulfil allmade specific pledges made at the Kampala Review Cconference of 31 May-11 June 2010, and recommends that the fulfilment of these pledges is in a timely manner and is reported back on the implementation of the pledges at the next Assembly of States Parties, scheduled to take place on 12-21 December 2011 in New York;
Amendment 77 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 a (new)
Paragraph 2 a (new)
2a. Welcomes the adoption of amendments to the Rome Statute, including on the crime of aggression, and calls on all EU Member States to ratify them and integrate them into their national legislation;
Amendment 79 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 2 b (new)
Paragraph 2 b (new)
2b. Cooperation between the European Union and its Member States and the International Criminal Court (New heading)
Amendment 86 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 a (new)
Paragraph 4 a (new)
4a. Stresses that full and prompt cooperation between state-parties, including EU Member States, and the Court remains essential to the effectiveness and success of the international criminal justice system;
Amendment 87 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4 b (new)
Paragraph 4 b (new)
4b. Calls on the EU and its Member States to comply with all requests by the Court to provide assistance and cooperation in a timely manner to ensure, inter alia, the execution of pending arrest warrants and the provision of information, including requests aimed at helping to identify, freeze and seize the financial assets of suspects;
Amendment 90 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5
Paragraph 5
5. Calls additionally on all the EU Member States to sign framework agreements with the ICC in order to facilitate adequate and timely cooperation with the Court (as regards replying to information requests, asset tracking, freezing and seizing requests and executing arrest warrants, as well as in the areas of witness protection, relocation and the enforcement of sentences) and fully integrate the Rome Statute into national legislationprovide full support and cooperation with the ICC on, inter alia, matters of investigation, collecting evidence, finding, protecting and re- allocating witnesses, arresting, extraditing, holding in custody and hosting indicted persons when released on bail, imprisoning sentenced persons; calls on Member States to mutually cooperate through their police, judicial and other relevant mechanisms to ensure adequate support for the ICC;
Amendment 91 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Encourages EU Member States to amend Article 83 of the Treaty of the Functioning of the European Union to include the crimes under the jurisdiction of the ICC to the list of crimes for which the EU has competences; more specifically, urges EU Member States to transfer competences to the EU in the area of identification and confiscation of assets of indicted by the ICC persons, notwithstanding the fact that judicial proceedings are initiated by the ICC; calls on EU Member States to cooperate in exchanging relevant information through the existing Asset Recovery Offices as well as through the Camden Asset Recovery Inter-Agency Network (CARIN);
Amendment 93 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 b (new)
Paragraph 5 b (new)
5b. Urges EU Member States to fully integrate the provisions of the Rome Statute and the Agreement on Privileges and Immunities of the Court into their national legislation;
Amendment 94 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6
Paragraph 6
Amendment 104 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7a. Urges the European Union and its Member States to ensure the existence of training programmes for, but not limited to, police investigators, prosecutors, judges, army officials that focus, first, on the provisions of the Rome Statute and the relevant international law and, second, on the prevention, detection, investigation and prosecution of violations of these principles;
Amendment 108 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 9
Paragraph 9
9. Strongly encourages the EU and its Member States, with the help of the EEAS, to put in place a set of internal guidelines, modelled on existing UN and ICC guidelines, outlining a code of conduct for contact between EU and Member State officials and persons wanted by the ICC, in particular when the latter still occupy official posts;
Amendment 127 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 a (new)
Paragraph 13 a (new)
13a. Urges the EU and its Member States to mainstream the work of the ICC and the provisions of the Rome Statute in its rule of law development programmes; calls on the EU and its Member States to provide the necessary technical, logistical and financial assistance and expertise to developing countries that have limited resources to adapt their national legislation to the principles of the Rome Statute and to cooperate with the ICC, no matter whether these countries have ratified or not the Statute; further encourages the EU and its Member States to support training programmes for the police, judicial, military and administrative authorities of developing countries introducing them to the provisions of the Rome Statute;
Amendment 131 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 13 b (new)
Paragraph 13 b (new)
13b. The universality of the Rome Statute (New heading)
Amendment 139 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 15
Paragraph 15
15. Recognises the role of the EU in promoting the universality of the Rome Statute and of the Agreement on Privileges and Immunities of the Court (APIC) and welcomes the recent accessions to/ratifications of the Rome Statute by the Philippines, Tunisia, Granada, Moldova, St Lucia and the Seychelles, which brought the total number of States Parties to 1167; calls on more Asian, North African, Middle Eastern and Sub-Saharan countries to become parties to the Rome Statute;
Amendment 151 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 17
Paragraph 17
17. Calls on the EU leaders to liaise with the key states that have not yet become party to the Rome Statute, particularly those that are permanent members of the UN Security Council (i.e. Russia, China and the United States), to encourage them to do so;
Amendment 158 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19
Paragraph 19
Amendment 162 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 20
Paragraph 20
20. Encourages Turkey, the only official EU candidate who has not yet done so, to become a State Party to the Rome Statute and to the Agreement on Privileges and Immunities (APIC) as soon as possible, stressing the need for any future candidate countries and the partner countries covered by the European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP) to do the same;
Amendment 170 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 21
Paragraph 21
21. Reaffirms the need for the EU and its Member States to enhance their diplomatic efforts among non-parties to the Rome Statute and regional organizations (e.g. AU, ASEAN, and the Arab League) to promote a better understanding of the mandate of the ICC, i.e. the pursuit of perpetrators of war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide, including through the development of a special communication strategy for that matter;
Amendment 173 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 22
Paragraph 22
22. Affirms the crucial role of the EU Member States' diplomatic support for the ICC's mandate and for its activities in UN fora, including in the UN General Assembly and the UN Security Council;
Amendment 175 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 23
Paragraph 23
23. Stresses the need for continued diplomatic efforts to encourage UN Security Council members to ensure the timely referral of cases, as postulated in Article 13 (b) of the Rome Statute and as most recently illustrated by the unanimous referral of the situation in Libya to the ICC by the UN Security Council; also expressed its hope that the UN Security Council will refrain from deferring investigations or prosecutions of the Court as postulated in Article 16 of the Rome Statute;
Amendment 176 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 24
Paragraph 24
24. Calls on the UN Security Council's members to find a way for the UN to provide the Court with financial resources, in particular to cover costs related to the opening of investigations into situations referred by the UN Security Council; in accordance with Article 115 of the Rome Statute;
Amendment 188 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 27 a (new)
Paragraph 27 a (new)
27a. Elections of judges and a Chief Prosecutor (New heading)
Amendment 192 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 28 a (new)
Paragraph 28 a (new)
28a. Welcomes the establishment of an advisory committee to receive and review all nominations of new judges as well as the establishment of a search committee for the ICC Prosecutor, and expresses its opinion that the work of the two committees should not be influenced by political considerations;
Amendment 196 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29
Paragraph 29
29. Welcomes the EU's and Member States' financial and logistical support for the ICC thus far and recommends that current forms of support (including the visiting professionals and internship programmes)11 are continued and expanded further, either through the regular budget of the ICC funded by state-parties contributions or through the European Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights (EIDHR) funded by the EU budget, are continued, especially in the following fields: outreach activities aimed at helping victims and affected communities; legal representation; witness relocation; the participation and protection of victims/witnesses, with special consideration for the needs of women and juvenile/child victims; the provision of support enabling the Court to cover urgent operational needs stemming from new investigations; maintaining the visiting professionals and internship programmes in the Court; further developing and supporting the legal tools computer products; keeping the funding for an annual seminar and training session for ICC defence lawyers; assisting NGOs, including the Coalition for the ICC, Parliamentarians for Global Action and others, particularly those from ICC situation countries;
Amendment 200 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29 – footnote
Paragraph 29 – footnote
Amendment 210 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 30
Paragraph 30
30. Recommends that the EU and itsEU Member States increascontinue their contributionsfinancial support to the ICC Trust Fund for the Victims and to the Witness Relocation Fund;
Amendment 212 #
2011/2109(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 31
Paragraph 31
31. Encourages the EU to secure adequate and stable funding for civil society actors working on ICC-related issues within the European Instrument for Democracy and Human Rights (EIDHR), and encourages the EU Member States and existing European foundations to increaspreserve their fundingsupport for such actors;
Amendment 8 #
2011/2033(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Calls for a track-record of unbiased and successful prosecutions and court rulings in combating corruption, including in high- profile cases, in order to enhance citizens' trust in the rule of law and public institutions; invites the relevant authorities to improve interinstitutional cooperation, especially with law-enforcement structures, raise public awareness and develop capacities for planning, enforcing and monitoring anti-corruption rules and activities, as well as to cooperate closely with the Group of States against Corruption (GRECO) and to engage closely with state independent bodies, such as anti-corruption agencies;
Amendment 10 #
2011/2033(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Regrets the fact that IPA-I funding levels still appear limited when set against the importance of these areas; considers it essential in the future financing of these areas under IPA-II that progress in meeting specific objectives on an independent and efficient judiciary, the rule of law and combating corruption, including their implementation, should be monitored and assessed on the basis of measurablquantitative and qualitative indicators.
Amendment 1 #
2011/2032(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 a (new)
Citation 1 a (new)
– having regard to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child,
Amendment 2 #
2011/2032(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 1 b (new)
Citation 1 b (new)
– having regard to the UN Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women,
Amendment 12 #
2011/2032(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 22 a (new)
Citation 22 a (new)
– having regard to the financial instruments of the European Commission concerning democratisation, human rights and human trafficking (AENEAS, its successor the Thematic Program for Migration and Asylum, MIEUX, EIDHR, ENPI and TAIEX),
Amendment 13 #
2011/2032(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Citation 23
Citation 23
– having regard to the report of 15 February21 March 200511 by the United Nations High Commissioner on HSpecial Representative of the Secretary-General on the issue of human Rrights on the responsibilities ofand transnational corporations and relatedother business enterprises with regard to human rights14 1,
Amendment 58 #
2011/2032(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J a (new)
Recital J a (new)
Ja. whereas the work of UN Women is crucial for supporting women in their contribution to and participation in the process of democratisation,
Amendment 60 #
2011/2032(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital J b (new)
Recital J b (new)
Jb. whereas inside states undergoing democratisation, women and young children are particularly vulnerable to human trafficking, including for the purposes of prostitution,
Amendment 116 #
2011/2032(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Reaffirms the continuous support of the European Union for the work of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, UN Women and UNICEF; urges the Union and Member States to collaborate closely with the Human Rights Council;
Amendment 129 #
2011/2032(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 7 a (new)
Paragraph 7 a (new)
7a. Calls on the European Union and Member States, whenever necessary, to put pressure on the governments of states known for their negative human rights track records in order to improve the human rights situation in these states and thus to accelerate the process of democratisation;
Amendment 156 #
2011/2032(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 8 a (new)
Paragraph 8 a (new)
8a. Calls on the European Union and Member States to continue upholding the apolitical nature of humanitarian aid that is provided during the democratisation process;
Amendment 233 #
2011/2032(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 a (new)
Paragraph 18 a (new)
18a. Stresses the importance of protecting the rights of girls and women, including the rights to equal treatment and to education, for the democratisation of any society;
Amendment 235 #
2011/2032(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 18 b (new)
Paragraph 18 b (new)
18b. Reaffirms the commitment of the European Union to combating human trafficking and calls on the Commission to pay special attention to states undergoing democratisation, since their population is especially vulnerable to being subjected to human trafficking; asks for close cooperation between DG DEVCO, DG ENLAR, DG HOME and the EU Anti-Trafficking Coordinator on the matter;
Amendment 4 #
2011/2014(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 1
Paragraph 1
1. Stresses that the overall objectives of EU development assistance to Afghanistan should be to assist in the long term sustainable development of the country, including improvement of socio-economic standards and, facilitating job creation and proliferation of SMEs, strengthening the educational sector and ensuring gender equality; underlines that the aid should further facilitate capacity building in public administration, strengthen the rule of law and reduce corruption, thus facilitating the transfer of security to the GIRoA;
Amendment 12 #
2011/2014(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 2
Paragraph 2
2. Reiterates the urgent need to increase efficiency of aid, as many development indicators still show no significant improvement, and corruption remains a major obstacle to the provision of essential services to the people; calls on the European Union and Member States to use all available financial instruments to achieve this goal, including the future EU Trust Funds when established;
Amendment 16 #
2011/2014(INI)
Draft opinion
Paragraph 3
Paragraph 3
3. Points out the need to makeat the EU should have a leading role in improving donor coordination work better and toin provideing for detailed evaluations of aid efficiency in order to improve the accountability of the aid;
Amendment 13 #
2011/2008(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Recital B a (new)
Recital B a (new)
Ba. whereas SMEs are an embodiment of entrepreneurship and the free-market spirit, and are a powerful force in the establishment of democracies,
Amendment 38 #
2011/2008(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 4
Paragraph 4
4. Supports the opening of fully-fledged EU delegations in all the countries of Central Asia as a means of increasing the presence and visibility of the EU in the region and long-term cooperation and engagement with all sectors of society and fostering progress towards better understanding and the emergence of the rule of law and respect for human rights; insists on proper staffing of these missions in order to achieve maximum results and provide effective assistance;
Amendment 46 #
2011/2008(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 5 a (new)
Paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. Stresses the importance of freely operating opposition parties in the region and urges the governments of all the countries of Central Asia to guarantee political freedom;
Amendment 53 #
2011/2008(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 6 a (new)
Paragraph 6 a (new)
6a. Calls on the European Union to continue supporting public sector reform in the countries of Central Asia through adequate technical and financial assistance in order to achieve stable, reformed and modernised administrative structures in all the countries concerned;
Amendment 78 #
2011/2008(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10, subheading 2 a (new)
Paragraph 10, subheading 2 a (new)
Economic integration and sustainable growth
Amendment 81 #
2011/2008(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 c (new)
Paragraph 10 c (new)
10c. Emphasises that democratic and economic progress is interconnected; reaffirms its support for the economic diversification of the countries of Central Asia as a way to achieve economic development and a steady GDP growth; in this regard, calls on the governments of the countries of Central Asia to develop, implement and monitor policies that facilitate foreign investments, foster innovation and improve the environment for true private entrepreneurship, including microcredits especially for projects of independent women;
Amendment 84 #
2011/2008(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 10 e (new)
Paragraph 10 e (new)
10e. Stresses the need for the governments of the countries of Central Asia to promote and support the proliferation of SMEs and calls on the EU to facilitate cooperation between SMEs from the EU and SMEs from Central Asia;
Amendment 127 #
2011/2008(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 19 d (new)
Paragraph 19 d (new)
19d. Stresses the need for the OSCE and UN missions to operate freely in the territories of the countries concerned, because these organizations are crucial for the provision of the much necessary assistance in security-sector reform;
Amendment 191 #
2011/2008(INI)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 29 a (new)
Paragraph 29 a (new)
29a. Is concerned by the use of forced child labour, especially in the sphere of agriculture, and urges the Government of Uzbekistan to develop, implement and monitor effective policies to eliminate permanently forced child labour; calls on the European Union to support the Government of Uzbekistan in its efforts in the area;
Amendment 17 #
2011/0432(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) Where unrepresented citizens need protection in third countries efficient cooperation and coordination is required. The assisting Member State present in a third country, the Union delegation in that third country and the Member State of origin of the citizen may need to cooperate closely. Local consular cooperation may be more complex for unrepresented citizens, as it requires coordination with authorities not represented on the ground. To fill the gap caused by the absence of an embassy or consulate of the citizen's own Member State, a stable framework should be ensured.
Amendment 18 #
2011/0432(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 21
Recital 21
(21) In the event of crisis adequate preparation and a clear division of responsibilities are essential. Crisis contingency planning should therefore fully include unrepresented citizens and national contingency plans should be coordinated. The concept of the Lead State should be further developed in that context.
Amendment 19 #
2011/0432(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Recital 23
Recital 23
(23) In third countries the Union is represented by the Union delegations, which together with the diplomatic and consular missions of the Member States contribute to the implementation of the right of citizens of the Union regarding consular protection as specified further in Article 35 of the Treaty on European Union. In line with the Vienna Convention on consular relations Member States may provide consular protection on behalf of another Member State unless the third country concerned objects. Member States should undertake the necessary measures in relation to third countries to ensure that consular protection on behalf of other Member States can be provided. The Union delegations should ensure the necessary coordination among Member States and be entrusted with consular tasks wherever and whenever relevant, especially in times of distress. To be able to fulfil this role, the Union should be provided with the necessary financial means.
Amendment 20 #
2011/0432(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Article 1 – paragraph 1
Article 1 – paragraph 1
This Directive lays down the cooperation and coordination measures necessary to facilitate the exercise of the right of citizens of the Union, in the territory of a third country in which the Member State of which they are nationals is not represented, to protection by the diplomatic or consular authorities of another Member State on the same conditions as the nationals of that Member State, or by the Union delegation in that third country.
Amendment 22 #
2011/0432(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Article 2 – paragraph 1
Article 2 – paragraph 1
1. Every citizen holding the nationality of a Member State of the Union which is not represented by a diplomatic or consular authority in a third country, hereafter ‘unrepresented citizen’, shall be entitled to protection by the diplomatic or consular authorities of any other Member State under the same conditions as its nationals, or by the Union delegation.
Amendment 23 #
2011/0432(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Article 2 – paragraph 3
Article 2 – paragraph 3
3. Family members of unrepresented citizens who themselves are not citizens of the Union are entitled to consular protection under the same conditions as the family members of nationals of the assisting Member State who themselves are not nationals, or to consular protection by a Union delegation.
Amendment 25 #
2011/0432(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Article 4 – paragraph 1
Article 4 – paragraph 1
1. Unrepresented citizens may choose the Member State embassy or consulate from which they seek consular protection, or may seek such protection from a Union delegation under the conditions set out in Article 4(1a).
Amendment 26 #
2011/0432(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Article 4 – paragraph 1 a (new)
Article 4 – paragraph 1 a (new)
1a. The Union delegations shall primarily be responsible for ensuring cooperation and coordination among Member States for the provision of consular protection to unrepresented citizens of the Union. The Union delegations may, whenever and wherever necessary and relevant, and especially in situations of distress, also be entrusted with consular tasks for unrepresented citizens.
Amendment 27 #
2011/0432(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Article 4 – paragraph 2
Article 4 – paragraph 2
2. A Member State may represent another Member State on a permanent basis and Member States' embassies or consulates in a third country may conclude arrangements on burden-sharing, provided that effective treatment of applications is ensured. Member StatesUnion delegations shall coordinate, in third countries, the efforts to set up those arrangements, and shall inform the European Commission in due time of any such arrangement in view of publication on itsthe dedicated internet site.
Amendment 28 #
2011/0432(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Article 13 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
Article 13 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1
In crisis situations the assisting embassy or consulate or Union delegation shall coordinate any evacuation or other necessary support provided for an unrepresented citizen with the citizen's Member State of nationality.
Amendment 29 #
2011/0432(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Article 14 – paragraph 1
Article 14 – paragraph 1
Local cooperation meetings shall include a regular exchange of information on unrepresented citizens, on matters such as safety of citizens, prison conditions or consular access. Unless otherwise agreed by the Ministries of Foreign Affairs centrally, the Chair shall be a representative of a Member State or the Union delegation decided locally. The Chair shall collect and regularly update contact details, in particular regarding the contact points of unrepresented Member States, and share them with the local embassies and consulates and the Union delegation. If possible, the Chair shall also collect contact information of unrepresented Union citizens and share such information with local embassies and consulates.
Amendment 31 #
2011/0432(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Article 16
Article 16
Amendment 32 #
2011/0432(CNS)
Proposal for a directive
Article 20 – paragraph 1
Article 20 – paragraph 1
Member States shall provide the Commission with all the relevant information regarding the implementation of the right of unrepresented citizens and the practical implementation of this Directive, including a yearly overview of statistics and relevant cases. The Commission shall submit a report to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions on the implementation of this Directive by […]...*. ______________ * OJ please insert the date three years from the date of entry into force of this Directive.
Amendment 29 #
2011/0415(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4
Recital 4
(4) Taking into account the policy programming or financial execution nature of those implementing acts, in particular their budgetary implications, the examination procedure should in general be used for their adoption, except for measures of a small financial scale. However, the Commission should adopt immediately applicable implementing acts where, in duly justified cases relating to the need for a swift response from the Union, imperative grounds of urgency so requires. The European Parliament should be duly and promptly informed thereof. All measures adopted should also take into account the relevant provisions of Regulation (EU) No [...] of the European Parliament and of the Council on the financial rules applicable to the annual budget of the Union1 (hereinafter "the Financial Regulation"). ____________ 1 COM(2010)0815.
Amendment 31 #
2011/0415(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 6
Recital 6
(6) For the implementation of financial instruments, when the management of the operation is entrusted to a financial intermediary, the Commission decision should cover in particular provisions concerning risk-sharing, the remuneration of the intermediary responsible for implementation, the use and re-use of the funds and the possible profits, taking into account the relevant provisions of the Financial Regulation. When financial instruments are no longer deemed to be needed, they may be terminated in accordance with the conditions laid down in this Regulation.
Amendment 32 #
2011/0415(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) While financing needs of the Union's external assistance are increasing, the economic and budgetary situation of the Union limits the resoThe Commission should aim to create budgetary synergies between national, Union, multilateral and international measurces available for such assistance. The Commissionnd existing instruments by avoiding any potential overlap, and must therefore seek the most efficient use of available resources without compromising the just and fair use of the Union's resources, in particular by using financial instruments that have a leverage effect. Such leverage effect is increased by, allowing funds invested and generated by the financial instruments to be used and re- used in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Financial Regulation.
Amendment 39 #
2011/0415(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 3
Article 1 – paragraph 3
3. In applying this Regulation, the Commission shall, where possible and appropriate in light of the nature of the action, favour the use of the most flexible procedures in order to ensure an effective and efficient implementation without compromising the rightful use of Union funds and without prejudice to the powers of the budgetary authority.
Amendment 51 #
2011/0415(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point a
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point a
(a) studies, meetings, information, awareness-raising, training, preparation and exchange of lessons learned and best practices, publication activities and any other administrative or technical assistance expenditure necessary for the management of the actions,
Amendment 53 #
2011/0415(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point c
Article 3 – paragraph 2 – point c
(c) expenditures related to the provision of information and communication actions, including the development of communication strategies and corporate communication of the political priorities of the Union.
Amendment 61 #
2011/0415(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – point f
Article 4 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 1 – point f
(f) shareholdings or equity participations in international financial institutions, including regional development banks but excluding national banks of Member States.
Amendment 92 #
Amendment 93 #
2011/0415(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 – paragraph 2
Article 13 – paragraph 2
2. The biennial report shall contain information relating to the two previous years on the measures financed, the results of monitoring and evaluation exercises, the involvement of the relevant partners, and the implementation of budgetary commitments and of payments appropriations. It shall assess the results of the Union's financial assistance, using as far as possible, specific and measurable indicators of its role in meeting the objectives of the Instruments, including economic development and human rights.
Amendment 94 #
2011/0415(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 – paragraph 2
Article 13 – paragraph 2
2. The biennial report shall contain information relating to the previous year on the measures financed, the results of monitoring and evaluation exercises, the involvement of the relevant partners, and the implementation of budgetary commitments and of payments appropriations. It shall assess the results of the Union's financial assistance, using as far as possible, specific and measurable indicators of its role in meeting the objectives of the Instruments.
Amendment 100 #
2011/0415(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 16 – paragraph 5 a (new)
Article 16 – paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. By no later than 31 December 2017, the Commission shall produce a document that consolidates information on all funding governed by this Regulation and all external funding within the broad remit, which may not be confined only to funding under Heading 4, and that offers a breakdown of spending by, inter alia, beneficiary country, general area of application of the funds, use of financial instruments, commitments and payments, and level of participation of partners.
Amendment 23 #
2011/0414(CNS)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 3
Article 2 – paragraph 3
3. Strategy papers will aim at providing a coherent framework for cooperation between the Union and the partner countries or regions concerned, consistent with the overall purpose and scope, objectives, principles and external and internal policyies of the Union.
Amendment 24 #
2011/0414(CNS)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 2
Article 3 – paragraph 2
2. Multiannual indicative programmes shall set out the priority areas selected for financing, the specific objectives, the expected results, theclear, specific and transparent performance indicators and the indicative financial allocations, both overall and per priority area, broken down by year, and including a reasonable reserve of unallocated funds; this may be given in the form of a range, with a variation of not more than 10% of the lower amount of the Programme, or a minimum, where appropriate.
Amendment 25 #
2011/0414(CNS)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 5
Article 3 – paragraph 5
5. The multi annual indicative programmes shall be revised as necessary, taking into account any review of the relevant strategy papers, in accordance with the same procedure. However, the examination procedure shall not be required for modifications to multiannual indicative programmes, which make technical adjustments, reassign funds within the allocations per priority area, or increase or decrease the size of the initial indicative allocation by less than 20%, provided that these modifications do not affect the initial priority areas and objectives set out in the document. Any such technical adjustments shall be communicated within one month to the European Parliament and to the Council. If the total amount of non-substantial amendments or their budgetary impact exceeds the thresholds for small-scale financing, as stipulated in Article 2(2) of the Common Implementing Regulation, the procedure referred to in Article 15(3) of the same Regulation shall apply
Amendment 12 #
2011/0413(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) While Union external assistance has increasing financing needs, the economic and budgetary situation of the Union limits the resources available for such assistance. The Commission must therefore seek the most efficient use of available resources through, in particular, the use of financial instruments with leverage effect, but without compromising the just and fair use of the Union's resources. Such leverage effect is increased by allowing the possibility to use and re-use the funds invested and generated by the financial instruments. in accordance with the relevant provisions of Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 1605/2002 of 25 June 2002 on the Financial Regulation applicable to the general budget of the European Communities1. _________ 1 OJ L 248, 16.9.2002, p. 1.
Amendment 13 #
2011/0413(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 2
Article 7 – paragraph 2
2. The Commission may adopt Exceptional Assistance Measures in accordance with the urgency procedure referred to in Article 15(4) of the Common Implementing Regulation in a situation of crisis as referred to in Article 3(1), as well as in exceptional and unforeseen situations as referred to in Article 3(3), where the effectiveness of the measures is dependent on rapid or flexible implementation. Such measures may have duration of up to 18 months. Measures may be extended twice in duration by a further six months (up to maximum of 30 months) in the case of objective and unforeseen obstacles to their implementation, provided that the financial amount of the measure does not increase. In cases of protracted crisis and conflict, the Commission may adopt a second Exceptional Assistance Measure. If the budgetary impact from prolongation of an Exceptional Assistance Measure exceeds the threshold for small-scale financing as referred to in Article 2(2) of the Common Implementing Regulation, the procedure referred to in Article 15(3) of the Common Implementing Regulation shall apply.
Amendment 14 #
2011/0413(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 3
Article 7 – paragraph 3
3. Where an Exceptional Assistance Measure is costing more than EUR 30 000 000exceeds the relevant financial threshold for special measures as defined in Article 2(2) of the Common Implementing Regulation, that measure shall be adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in Article 15 (3) of the Common Implementing Regulation.
Amendment 15 #
2011/0413(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 5
Article 7 – paragraph 5
5. Before adopting or renewing Exceptional Assistance Measures costing up to EUR 30 000 000not exceeding the relevant financial threshold for special measures as defined in Article 2(2) of the Common Implementing Regulation, the Commission shall inform the Council of their nature, objectives and the financial amounts envisaged. The Commission shall likewise inform the Council before making significant substantive changes to Exceptional Assistance Measures already adopted. It shall take account of the relevant policy approach of the Council both in its planning and subsequent implementation of such measures, in the interest of the coherence of EU external action.
Amendment 16 #
2011/0413(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 3
Article 8 – paragraph 3
3. Each Thematic Strategy Paper shall be accompanied by a Multiannual Indicative Programme summarising the priority areas selected for Union financing, theclear, specific and transparent objectives, the expected results and the timeframe of Union support. The Multiannual Indicative Programmes shall determine the indicative financial allocations for each programme taking into account the needs and the particular difficulties of the partner countries or regions concerned. The financial allocations may be given in the form of a range, where necessary, with a variation of not more than 10 % of the lower amount of the Multiannual Indicative Programme.
Amendment 17 #
2011/0413(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 8 – paragraph 5 – subparagraph 2 (new)
Article 8 – paragraph 5 – subparagraph 2 (new)
If the total amount of non-substantial amendments or their budgetary impact exceeds the threshold for small-scale financing as defined in Article 2(2) of the Common Implementing Regulation, the procedure referred to in Article 15(3) of the Common Implementing Regulation shall apply.
Amendment 74 #
2011/0413(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2
Recital 2
(2) Preserving peace, preventing conflicts, strengthening international security and assisting populations, countries and regions confronting natural or man-made disasters are among the prime objectives of the Union's external action as defined in article 21 of the Treaty on European Union. Crises and conflicts affecting countries world-wide and other factors such as terrorism, organised crime, climate change, cyber security challenges and threats and natural disasters pose a risk to world stability and security. In order to address these issues in an effective and timely manner, specific financial resources and financing instruments are required that can work in a manner complementary to humanitarian aid and long-term development cooperation instruments.
Amendment 75 #
2011/0413(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 3
Recital 3
(3) Regulation (EC) No 1717/2006 was adopted with the objective of enabling the Union to provide a consistent and integrated response to situations of crisis and emerging crisis, to address specific trans-regional security threats and to enhance crisis preparedness. This Regulation aims at introducing a revised Instrument,The aim of this Regulation is to building on thepast experience of the previous one, in orderand to increase the efficiency and coherence of the Union's actions in the areas of conflict prevention and crisis response, crisis preparedness and peace-building and in addressing security threats, including climate security.
Amendment 88 #
2011/0413(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 10
Recital 10
(10) While Union external assistance has increasing financing needs, the economic and budgetary situation of the Union limits the resources available for such assistance. The Commission must therefore seek the most efficient use of available resources and ensure best value for money through, in particular, the use of financial instruments with leverage effect, but without compromising the just and fair use of the Union's resources. Such leverage effect is increased by allowing the possibility to use and re-use the funds invested and generated by the financial instruments in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Financial Regulation.
Amendment 100 #
2011/0413(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 3
Article 2 – paragraph 3
3. Union assistance under this Regulation shall not replace but be complementary to that provided for under relatedall other Union instruments for external assistance. It shall be provided only to the extent that an adequate and effective response cannot be provided under those instruments, and shall be programmed in such a way as to facilitate continuity of actions under those other instruments.
Amendment 103 #
2011/0413(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 5
Article 2 – paragraph 5
5. In order to enhance the effectiveness and consistency of Union and national assistance measures and to prevent double- funding, the Commission shall promoteand the EEAS shall closely coordination between itse their own activities and those of the Member States, both at decision-making level and on the ground. To that end, the Member States and, the Commission and the EEAS shall operate a system for exchange of information. If necessary, the Commission may adopt, in accordance with Article 9, additional procedures for exchanging information and cooperation.
Amendment 105 #
2011/0413(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 5 a (new)
Article 2 – paragraph 5 a (new)
5a. In order to enhance international response to situations benefiting from the Instrument, the Union shall cooperate with and coordinate activities and assistance with other international, regional and sub-regional actors, exchange information with them, and promote exchange of good practices and lessons learnt.
Amendment 137 #
2011/0413(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 8
Article 7 – paragraph 8
8. The Commission shall keep the European Parliament regularly informed about its planning and implementation of Union assistance under Article 3.
Amendment 156 #
2011/0413(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex I – point a
Annex I – point a
(a) support, through the provision of technical and logistical assistance, for the efforts undertaken by international and regional organisations, state and non-state actors in promoting confidence-building, mediation, dialogue and, reconciliation and good neighbourly relations whenever applicable;
Amendment 177 #
2011/0413(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex II – paragraph 1 – point d
Annex II – paragraph 1 – point d
(d) improving post-conflict andrecovery as well as post- disaster recovery with imminent threats to the political and security situation in a region;
Amendment 14 #
2011/0412(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 2
Article 4 – paragraph 2
2. Strategy papers shall set out the priority areas selected for financing by the Union during the period of validity of this Regulation, the specific objectives, the expected results and the performance indicators. They shall also give the indicative financial allocation, both overall and per priority area; this may be given in the form of a range, where appropriate, with a variation of not more than 10 % of the lower indicative amount.
Amendment 15 #
2011/0412(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 4 – paragraph 3
Article 4 – paragraph 3
3. Strategy papers shall be approved in accordance with the procedure laid down in Article 15 (3) of the Common Implementing Regulation. When significant changes of circumstances and policy so require and the implied budgetary impact is higher than the financial threshold as referred to in Article 2(2) of the Common Implementing Regulation, strategy papers shall be updated in accordance with the same procedure.
Amendment 41 #
2011/0412(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5 a (new)
Recital 5 a (new)
(5a) A special effort will be put into communication and visibility actions to support and complement EIDHR activities and to make widely known EU support for democracy and human rights and its impact. Such actions shall always meet the requirements of confidentiality and security required for certain EIDHR activities.
Amendment 47 #
2011/0412(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 8
Recital 8
(8) Democracy and human rights are inextricably linked, as recalled in the Council Conclusions of 18 November 2009, on democracy support in the EU's external relations. The fundamental freedoms of expression and association are the preconditions for political pluralism and democratic processes, whereas democratic control and separation of powers are essential to sustain an independent judiciary and the rule of law which in turn are required for effective protection of human rights.
Amendment 64 #
2011/0412(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 11
Recital 11
(11) Union assistance under this Regulation is designed to complement the various other tools for implementing of Union policies on democracy and human rights, which range from political dialogue and diplomatic demarches to various instruments for financial and technical cooperation, including both geographic and thematic programmes. It will also complement the more crisis-related actions under the Instrument for Stability. Funding provided under this Regulation should not overlap with funding from other Union external action instruments.
Amendment 76 #
2011/0412(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 13
Recital 13
(13) Furthermore, whilst democracy and human rights objectives must be increasingly mainstreamed in all external assistance financing instruments, Union assistance under this Regulation will have a specific complementary and additional role by virtue of its global nature and its independence of action from the consent of third country governments and other public authorities. This will allow for cooperation with civil society on sensitive human rights and democracy issues possible, providing the flexibility to respond to changing circumstances by the range of funding mechanisms available (framework agreement, re-granting, direct grants, low-value grants), in order to allow the instrument to be adaptable, reactive to urgency and high risk situations and effective both for short term and long term actions. It should also provide Union capacity to articulate and support specific objectives and measures at international level which are neither geographically linked nor crisis related and which may require a transnational approach or involve operations both within the Union and in a range of third countries. Moreover, it will provide the necessary framework for operations, such as support for independent European Union election observation missions requiring policy coherence, a unified management system and common operating standards.
Amendment 98 #
2011/0412(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 2 – point b
Article 1 – paragraph 2 – point b
(b) supporting and consolidating democratic reforms in third countries, by enhancing good governance and participatory and representative democracy, strengthening the overall democratic cycle, and improving the reliability of electoral processes, in particular by means of election observation missions.
Amendment 106 #
2011/0412(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point a – point i
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point a – point i
(i) promoting freedom of association and assembly, unhindered movement of persons, freedom of opinion and expression,; including artistic and cultural expression, free press and independent pluralistic media, both traditional and ICT based, internet freedom and measures to combat administrative and political obstacles to the exercise of these freedoms, including the fight against censorship;
Amendment 109 #
2011/0412(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point a – point ii
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point a – point ii
(ii) strengthening the rule of law, promoting the independence of the judiciary, encouragsupporting and evaluating legal and institutional reforms, and promoting access to justice;
Amendment 112 #
2011/0412(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point a – point iv
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point a – point iv
(iv) supporting reforms to achieve effective and transparent democratic accountability and oversight, including that of the security and justice sectors, and encouragstrengthening measures against corruption;
Amendment 157 #
2011/0412(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point d – point iv
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point d – point iv
(iv) by supporting measures aimed at the consistent integration of electoral processes into the democratic cycle and at implementing recommendations made by Union Election Observation Missions and which promote democratic values;
Amendment 100 #
2011/0411(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 10 a (new)
Recital 10 a (new)
(10 a) In addition, the Union is committed to provide support for and to promote small and medium-sized enterprises and to encourage and assist their internationalisation, as reiterated in the 'Europe 2020' strategy, and should use the Partnership Instrument for this purpose.
Amendment 101 #
2011/0411(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 13
Recital 13
Amendment 117 #
2011/0411(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 2 – point a
Article 1 – paragraph 2 – point a
(a) implementing the international dimension of the ‘Europe 2020’ strategy by supporting Union's bilateral, regional and inter-regional cooperation partnership strategies, by promoting policy dialogues and by developing and coordinating collective approaches and responses to challenges of global concern such as energy security, climate change and environment. This objective shall be measured by the uptake of the ‘Europe 2020’ policies and objectives by key partner countries;
Amendment 121 #
2011/0411(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 – paragraph 2 – point b
Article 1 – paragraph 2 – point b
(b) improving market access and developing trade, investment and business opportunities for European companies, especially for European small and medium-sized enterprises, by means of economic partnerships and business and regulatory cooperation. This objective shall be measured by the Union's share in foreign trade with key partner countries and by trade and investments flows to partner countries specifically targeted by actions, programmes and measures under this Regulation;
Amendment 138 #
2011/0411(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 4
Article 3 – paragraph 4
Amendment 188 #
2011/0411(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Annex 1 – paragraph 1 – point f
Annex 1 – paragraph 1 – point f
(f) the promotion of initiatives and actions of Union or mutual interest in areas such as climate change, environmental matters including biodiversity, resource efficiency, raw materials, energy, transport, science, research and innovation, employment and social policy, sustainable development, including promotion of decent work, and corporate social responsibility, south-south trade and cooperation, education, culture, tourism, information and communication technologies, health, justice, the fight against organised crime, the fight against corruption, customs, taxation, financial, statistics and any other matter pertaining to the Union's specific interests or of mutual interest between the Union and third countries;
Amendment 51 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 5
Article 3 – paragraph 5
5. In implementing this Regulation, consistency shall be ensured with other areas of Union external action, including other relevant Instruments for external action where applicable, and with other relevant Union policies. To this end, measures financed under this Regulation, including those managed by the EIB, shall be based on the cooperation policies set out in instruments such as agreements, declarations and action plans between the Union and the third countries and regions concerned, and on the Union's decisions, specific interests, policy priorities and strategies.
Amendment 52 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 6
Article 3 – paragraph 6
6. The Commission and the Member States shall seek regular and frequent exchanges of information, including with other donors, and promote better donor consistency, coordination and complementarity by working towards joint multiannual programming, based on partner countries' poverty reduction or equivalent strategies, by common implementation mechanisms including shared analysis, by joint donor- wide missions and by the use of co- financing and delegated cooperation arrangements.
Amendment 53 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 7
Article 3 – paragraph 7
7. Within their respective spheres of competence, the Union and the Member States shall promote a multilateral approach to global challenges and, where appropriate, foster cooperation with local, national and international organisations and bodies and other bilateral donors.
Amendment 54 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 8 – point c
Article 3 – paragraph 8 – point c
(c) effective and innovative cooperation modalities and instruments as set out in Article 4 of the Common Implementing Regulation , such as blending grants and loans and other risk-sharing mechanismin line with OECD/DAC best practices and based on the common Union standards and best practices ion selected sectors and countries and private-sector engagement, ithe use of Union funds and reporting, as laid down line with OECD/DAC best practices the financial rules and other relevant Union legislation. These modalities and instruments shall be adapted to the particular circumstances of each partner country or region, with a focus on programme-based approaches, on delivery of predictable aid funding, on the mobilisation of private resources, on the development and use of country systems and on results-based approaches to development including, where appropriate, internationally agreed targets and indicators such as those of the MDGs; and
Amendment 55 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 3 – paragraph 8 – point d
Article 3 – paragraph 8 – point d
(d) improved impact of policies and programming through coordination, consistency and harmonisation between donors to creduceate synergies and avoid overlap and duplication, to improve complementarity and to support donor- wide initiatives.
Amendment 57 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 2 – point b
Article 6 – paragraph 2 – point b
(b) the actions address global initiatives supporting internationally agreed goals, or global public goods and challenges, in which case, by way of derogation from Article 9 of the Common Implementing Regulation, they may include actions in Member States, candidate countries and potential candidates, and in other third countries by way of derogation from Article 9 of the Common Implementing Regulation, as envisaged in the relevant thematic programme;
Amendment 59 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 3
Article 10 – paragraph 1 – subparagraph 3
The Commission shall adopt the implementing measures laid down in Article 2 of the Common Implementing Regulation on the basis of the programming documents referred to in Articles 11 and 13. In particular circumstances, however, Union support may also take the form of individual and special measures not covered in these documents, as provided for in the Common Implementing Regulation.
Amendment 60 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 10 – paragraph 2
Article 10 – paragraph 2
2. The Union and its Member States shall consult each other, and other donors and development actors including representatives of civil society and regional and local authorities, at an early stage of the programming process in order to promote coherence, complementarity and consistency among their cooperation activities. This consultation may lead to joint programming between the Union and its Member States.
Amendment 63 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 11 – paragraph 5 – subparagraph 3
Article 11 – paragraph 5 – subparagraph 3
Multiannual indicative programmes shall set out the priority areas selected for Union financing, the specific objectives, the expected results, the performance indicators andclear, specific and transparent performance indicators and, without prejudice to the prerogatives of the budgetary authority, lay down the indicative financial allocation, both overall and per priority area, broken down by year. Where appropriate, this allocation may be given in the form of a range, with a variation of not more than 10% of the lower amount of the Programme, and/or some funds may be left unallocated.
Amendment 64 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 12 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1
Article 12 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 1
Amendment 67 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 – paragraph 1
Article 13 – paragraph 1
1. Multiannual indicative programmes for thematic programmes shall set out the Union's strategy for the theme concerned, the priorities selected for financing by the Union, the specific objectives, the expected results, theclear, specific and transparent performance indicators, the international situation and the activities of the main partners. Where applicable, resources and intervention priorities shall be laid down for participation in global initiatives. Multiannual indicative programmes shall be consistent with the documents referred to in Article 11(3).
Amendment 68 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 – paragraph 2
Article 13 – paragraph 2
2. TWithout prejudice to the prerogatives of the budgetary authority, the multiannual indicative programmes, shall give the indicative financial allocation, both overall and by priority area, broken down by year. Where appropriate, this allocation may, be given in the form of a range, with a variation of no more than 10% of the lower amount of the Programme, and/or some funds may be left unallocated. Multiannual indicative programmes should be adjusted where necessary for an effective policy implementation, taking into account any mid-term or ad hoc reviews.
Amendment 69 #
2011/0406(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 14 – paragraph 2
Article 14 – paragraph 2
2. The procedure referred to in paragraph 1 shall not apply to non-substantial modifications to strategy papers and multiannual indicative programmes, making technical adjustments, reassigning funds within the indicative allocations per priority area, or increasing or decreasing the size of the initial indicative allocation by less than 20%, provided that these modifications do not affect the priority areas and objectives set out in these documents. In such case, adjustments shall be communicated to the European Parliament and to the Council within one month. If the total amount of non-substantial amendments or their budgetary impact exceeds the thresholds for small-scale financing, as stipulated in Article 2(2) of the Common Implementing Regulation, the procedure referred to in Article 15(3) of the said Regulation shall apply.
Amendment 121 #
2011/0405(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 15
Recital 15
(15) The Union and its Member States should improve the coherence and the complementarity of their respective policies on cooperation with neighbouring countries. To ensure that the Union's cooperation and that of the Member States complement and reinforce each other, it is appropriate to provide for joint programming which should be implemente. Cooperation and coordination with other international donors, international financial institutions and wthenever possible and relevant Union bodies should also be ensured.
Amendment 124 #
2011/0405(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16
Recital 16
(16) Union support under this Regulation should in principle be aligned to corresponding national, regional or local strategies and measures of partner countries.
Amendment 129 #
2011/0405(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 19
Recital 19
(19) European Union external support has increasing financing needs but the economic and budgetary situation of the Union limits the resources available for such support. The Commission must therefore seek the most efficient use of available resources by using financial instruments with leverage effect. Such effect could be increased by enabling the use and re-use of funds invested and generated by financial instrumentsThe Commission must seek the most efficient use of available resources and ensure best value for money by using financial instruments with leverage effect, but without compromising the just and fair use of the Union's resources. Such effect may be increased by the use and re- use of funds invested and generated by financial instruments. Cooperation with public financial institutions in accessing Union funds shall aim to ensure Union visibility and support to Union policies and standards, maximising the pooling of financial resources in favour of Union policy objectives and ensuring that the use of Union funds always complies with the best practices and rules as stipulated in the Financial Regulation and the Common Implementing Regulation.
Amendment 162 #
2011/0405(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – point a
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – point a
(a) promoting human rights and fundamental freedoms, the rule of law, principles of equality, and the transition to and establishingment of deep and sustainable democracy, promoting good governance and, including at local and regional level, developing a thriving civil society includ, and strengthening social partners;
Amendment 182 #
2011/0405(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – point d
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – point d
(d) supporting sustainable and inclusive development in all aspects, poverty reduction, including throughsocio-economic development, fostering private-sector development;, promotion ofng entrepreneurship, reducing poverty, promoting internal economic, social and territorial cohesion, rural development, climate action and disaster resilience;
Amendment 188 #
2011/0405(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – point e
Article 2 – paragraph 2 – point e
(e) promoting confidence building and other measuresgood neighbourly relations; contributing to the security of the Neighbourhood, including energy security, and the prevention and settlement of conflicts;
Amendment 235 #
2011/0405(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 2
Article 5 – paragraph 2
2. The Commission, the Member States and the European Investment Bank (EIB) shall ensure coherence between support provided under this Regulation and other support provided by the Union, such as under other financing instruments for external action, the Member States and the European Investment Bank.
Amendment 238 #
2011/0405(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 3
Article 5 – paragraph 3
3. The Union and the Member States shall coordinate their respective support programmes with the aim of increasing effectiveness and efficiency in the delivery of support and policy dialogue in line with the established principles for strengthening operational coordination in the field of external support, and for harmonising policies and procedures and for avoiding overlaps and gaps in funding. Coordination shall involve regular consultations and frequent exchanges of relevant information during the different phases of the support cycle, in particular at field level, and may lead to joint programming, delegated co-operation and/or transfer arrangements.
Amendment 83 #
2011/0404(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 5
Recital 5
(5) The accession process is based on objective criteria and the application of the principle of equal treatment of all applicant countries. Progression towards accession depends on the determination and capacity of the applicant country to undertake the necessary reforms to align its political, institutional, legal, administrative and economic systems with the rules, standards, policies and practices in the Union, as well as on the respect for the integration capacity of the Union.
Amendment 97 #
2011/0404(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 12
Recital 12
(12) The objectives of the assistance should be defined in indicative country and multi– country strategy papers established by the Commission for the duration of the Union's Multi-annual Financial Framework in partnership with the beneficiary countries, based on their specific needs and enlargement agenda. The strategy papers should identify the policy areas and specific sectors for assistance and, without prejudice to the prerogatives of the budgetary authority, lay down the indicative allocations of funds per policy area, broken down per year, including an estimate of climate related expenditure. Sufficient flexibility should be built in to cater for emerging needs and to give incentives to improve performance. The strategy papers should ensure coherence and consistency with the efforts of beneficiary countries as reflected in their national budgets and should take into account the support provided by other donors. In order to take into account internal and external developments, the multiannual indicative strategy papers should be revised as appropriate.
Amendment 99 #
2011/0404(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 12 b (new)
Recital 12 b (new)
(12b) A performance reserve providing additional financial awards and incentives to well-performing countries should be established.
Amendment 100 #
2011/0404(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 13
Recital 13
(13) It is in the Union's interest to assistReforms of the political, legal and socio-economic systems of the beneficiary countries are in their efforts to reform their system interest of the Union and the beneficiary countries in order to alignbring them to those ofe same level of standards as the Union's. Since the objective of this Regulation cannot be sufficiently achieved by the Member States and can be better achieved at Union's level, the Union may adopt measures in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity as set out in Article 5 of the Treaty on European Union. In accordance with the principle of proportionality as set out in that Article, this Regulation does not go beyond what is necessary in order to achieve this objective.
Amendment 105 #
2011/0404(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 16
Recital 16
(16) With regard to these delegated acts, it is of particular importance that the Commission should carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work, including at expert level. The Commission, when preparing and drawing up delegated acts, should further ensure a simultaneous, timely and appropriate transmission ofsimultaneously transmit all relevant documents to the European Parliament and the Council in due time.
Amendment 106 #
2011/0404(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 17
Recital 17
(17) Assistance should develop and expand local ownership while at the same time it should continue to make use of the structures and instruments that have proved their worth in the pre- accession process. The transition from direct management of pre-accession funds by the Commission to decentralised management delegated to the beneficiary countries should be progressive and in line with each beneficiary country's capacities.
Amendment 110 #
2011/0404(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 20
Recital 20
(20) Where a beneficiary country violates the principles on which the Union is founded, or fails to respect the commitments contained in the relevant agreements concluded with the Union, or makes insufficient progress with respect to the accessiodoes not respect its political obligations deriving from the pre-accession process, especially vis-à-vis the Copenhagen criteria, the Council, on a proposal from the Commission, should be able to takeadopt a decision and take the necessary and appropriate measures to redress the situation.
Amendment 115 #
2011/0404(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – introductory wording
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – introductory wording
1. Assistance under this Regulation shall pursue the following specific objectives accordepending to the needs of each beneficiary country and their individual enlargement agenda and in line with the Copenhagen criteria:
Amendment 116 #
2011/0404(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point a – point ii
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point a – point ii
(ii). promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms, enhanced respect for minority rights, promotion of gender equality, non-discrimination and freedom of the press, and promotion ofmedia, freedom of assembly and association, and upholding good neighbourly relations;
Amendment 133 #
2011/0404(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point b – point i
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point b – point i
(i) the achievement of Union standards in the economy and in economic governance, including fiscal stability and the establishment of a functioning and stable market economy;
Amendment 134 #
2011/0404(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point b – point ii
Article 2 – paragraph 1 – point b – point ii
(ii) the implementation of economic reforms necessary to cope with competitive pressure and market forces within the Union, while pursuachieving economic, social and environmental goalprogress;
Amendment 172 #
2011/0404(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 1
Article 5 – paragraph 1
1. The Commission shall establish a Common Strategic Framework for the Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance. The IPA Common Strategic Framework shall translate the political priorities of the enlargement policy into key actions which can receive assistance under this Regand the objectives of this Regulation into key actions and common objectives, for the achievement of which shall be granted assistance, and shall act as a reference framework for the mulationannual strategy papers.
Amendment 182 #
2011/0404(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 1
Article 7 – paragraph 1
Union assistance under this Regulation shall be implemented through programmes and measures as referred to in Articles 2 and 3 of the Common Implementing Regulation and in accordance with specific rules establishing uniform conditions for implementing the present Regulation, in particular as regards management structures and procedures, which the Commission shall adopt in accordance with Articles 10 and 11 of the present Regulation. Implementation shall, as a rule, take the form of annual or multiannual, country specific or multi-country programmes established in accordance with the strategy papers referred to in Article 6 and drawn up by the beneficiary countries and/or the Commission, as appropriateCommission in partnership with the beneficiary country or countries.
Amendment 186 #
2011/0404(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 4
Article 9 – paragraph 4
4. Where appropriate, the IPA may contribute to cross-border cooperation programmes or measures that are established and, implemented and governed under the Regulation (EU) No … of the European Parliament and of the Council of … establishing a European Neighbourhood Instrument and in which IPA beneficiary countries participate.
Amendment 189 #
2011/0404(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 – paragraph 1
Article 13 – paragraph 1
Without prejudice to the provisions on suspension of aid in partnership and cooperation agreements with partner countries and regions, where a beneficiary country fails to respect the principles of democracy, the rule of law, human rights, minority rights and fundamental freedoms, or the commitments contained in the relevant agreements concluded with the Union, or where progress towards fulfilment ofan beneficiary country does not respect political obligations deriving from the pre-accession criteria is insufficientprocess, especially the Copenhagen criteria, or where an beneficiary country systematically does not achieve the objectives and indicators set in the Common Strategic Framework and in the strategy papers, the Union shall invite the beneficiary country to hold consultations with a view to finding a solution acceptable to both parties, except in cases of special urgency. Where consultations with the beneficiary country do not lead to a solution acceptable to both parties, or if consultations are refused or in cases of special urgency, the Council may take appropriate measures in accordance with Article 215(1) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, which may include full or partial suspension of Union assistance. The European Parliament shall be fully and immediately informed of any decisions taken in this respect.
Amendment 192 #
2011/0404(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 13 a (new)
Article 13 a (new)
Article 13a Performance Reserve 1. A Performance Reserve shall be provided for in the Common Strategic Framework referred to in Article 5. An indicative amount, corresponding to 5% of the overall financial allocation shall be earmarked to the Performance Reserve. That amount shall not be pre-allocated. 2. The allocation of the funds from the Performance Reserve shall be decided in accordance with the IPA Common Strategic Framework, the strategy papers and the Common Implementing Regulation. In cases to be specified in full in the IPA Common Strategic Framework, where exceptional progress is made in meeting the objectives specified in the strategy papers, funds shall be disbursed from the Performance Reserve, having due regard to the will of the budgetary authority to scrutinise all proposed deployments of funds. Progress shall be assessed on the basis of the performance indicators referred to in Article 2(2) of this Regulation and specified in the strategy papers. 3. The decision on disbursement of funds from the Performance Reserve shall be taken following a revision of the strategy papers relating to the beneficiary concerned, in accordance with Article 6.
Amendment 195 #
2011/0404(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 14 – paragraph 1
Article 14 – paragraph 1
1. The financial reference amount for the implementation of this Regulation for the period from 2014 to 2020 shall be EUR 14 110 100 000... (current prices). Up to 3% of the financial reference amount, and in line with the needs and priorities of the beneficiary countries, shall be allocated to cross- border cooperation programmes between beneficiary countries and EU Member States.
Amendment 199 #
2011/0404(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 14 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1
Article 14 – paragraph 3 – subparagraph 1
As referred to in Article 13, paragraph 2 of the ‘Erasmus for All’ Regulation, in order to promote the international dimension of higher education, an indicative amount of EUR 1 812 100 000 from the different(...) corresponding to 2% of the financial allocations available for all the external instruments (Development Cooperation Instrument, European Neighbourhood Instrument, Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance, Partnership Instrument and the European Development Fund), will be allocated to actions of learning mobility to or from non EU countries and to cooperation and policy dialogue with authorities/institutions/organisations from these countries. The provisions of the ‘Erasmus for All’ Regulation will apply to the use of those funds.
Amendment 31 #
2011/0176(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 5 – paragraph 3
Article 5 – paragraph 3
3. In case the financing needs of the beneficiary country decline fundamentally duringsignificantly over the period of disbursement of the macro-financial assistance, the Commission, compared to the time when a decision for granting macro- financial assistance was taken, the Commission shall re-assess the economic and financial situation in the beneficiary country and, based on that assessment and acting in accordance with Article 14 (2), may decide to reduce the amount of funds made available in the context of the assistance, suspend or cancel the assistance.
Amendment 33 #
2011/0176(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 6 – paragraph 1
Article 6 – paragraph 1
1. A pre-condition for granting macro- financial assistance shall be that the recipient country respectsdemonstrates commitment to the establishment and/or promotion of effective democratic mechanisms, including multi- party parliamentary systems, the rule of law and respect for human rights. This assessment shall be entrusted to the EEAS in cooperation with the European Commission and shall take into consideration the latest resolutions and reports of the European Parliament concerning beneficiary countries.
Amendment 41 #
2011/0176(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 3
Article 7 – paragraph 3
3. The decision to provide a loan shall specify the amount, the maximum average maturity, the maximum number of instalments of the macro-financial assistance. The decision to provide a grant shall specify the amount, and the maximum number of instalments. In both cases the availability period of the macro-financial assistance shall be defined. As a rule,, and it shall not exceed three years.
Amendment 47 #
2011/0176(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 7 – paragraph 6
Article 7 – paragraph 6
6. The Commission shall informand the EEAS shall inform regularly and/or upon request the European Parliament and the Council of developments in country-specific assistance and provide them withshall ensure a simultaneous and timely transmission of the relevant documents.
Amendment 48 #
2011/0176(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 9 – paragraph 1
Article 9 – paragraph 1
1. Macro-financial assistance shall be disbursed only to the central bank of the beneficiary country.
Amendment 52 #
2011/0176(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 11 – paragraph 1
Article 11 – paragraph 1
1. Beneficiary countries shall regularly checkensure that financing provided from the budget of the Union has been properly used, take appropriate measures to prevent irregularities and fraud, and, if necessary, take legal action to recover any funds provided under this Regulation that have been misappropriated.
Amendment 95 #
2010/2004(BUD)
Motion for a resolution
Paragraph 40
Paragraph 40
40. Recalls the constant, almost unbearable pressure on the financing of the EU’s activities as a global player, with its room for manoeuvre caught between low financial margins, unpredictable crises in third countries and an ever-growing desire to affirm its priorities on the world stage; underlines that according to the updated financial programming published by the Commission, the CFSP budget for 2011 would amount to EUR 327,374 million but believes that amount might prove insufficient given the decision recently taken or due to be taken in relation to CFSP; underlines that any increase beyond that figure would put further pressure on heading 4;
Amendment 20 #
2010/0816(CNS)
Proposal for a decision
Recital 7
Recital 7
(7) Provisions should be adopted relating to the staff of the EEAS and their recruitment. For matter where such provisions arelating to its staff the EEAS should be treated as an institution within the meaning of the Staff Regulations. In accordance with Article 27(3) of the TEU, the EEAS will comprise officials from the General Secretariat necessary in order to establish the organisation and functioning of the EEAS. In parallel, necessary amendments should be made, in accordance with Article 336 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union ("TFEU"), to the Staff Regulations of Officials of the European Communities ("Staff Regulations") and the Conditions of Employment of Other Servants of those Council and the Commission as well as personnel seconded from the diplomatic services of the Member Statemmunities ("CEOS"). For matters relating to its staff the EEAS should be treated as an institution within the meaning of the Staff Regulations. The High Representative will be the Aappointing Aauthority, in relation both to officials subject to the Staff Regulations of Officials of the European Communities ("Staff Regulations") and agents subject to the Conditions of Employment of Other Servants. The High Representative will also have authority over the Seconded National Experts ("SNEs") in post in the EEAand agents subject to the CEOS. The number of officials and servants of the EEAS will be decided each year as part of the budgetary procedure and will be reflected in the establishment plan;
Amendment 25 #
2010/0816(CNS)
Proposal for a decision
Article 6 – paragraph 6
Article 6 – paragraph 6
6. All appoinRecruitments in the EEAS shall be based on merit and on the broadest possible geographical basis. The staff of the EEAS shall comprise a meaningful presence of nationals from all thewhilst ensuring an adequate geographical and gender balance. The staff of the EEAS shall comprise an adequate presence of nationals from all the Member States. Concrete measures analogous to those provided for in Council Regulation (EC, Euratom) No 401/2004 should be taken to ensure adequate geographical representativity in all grades within the EEAS, both in headquarters and in delegations. Those measures should apply to nationals from under-represented Member States.
Amendment 29 #
2010/0395(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 55 – paragraph 1
Article 55 – paragraph 1
1. The Commission shall implement the budget in the following ways: (a) by its departments, by Union Delegations in accordance with the second paragraph of Article 53, or through executive agencies referred to in Article 59; (b) indirectly, in shared management with Member States or by entrusting, subject to a specific provision in the basic act which also sets out, other than in the cases referred to in points (i) and (iv), the type of implementing partners and types of operations, by entrusting certain specified budget implementation tasks to: (i) third countries or the bodies they have designated; (ii) international organisations and their agencies; (iii) financial institutions entrusted with the implementation of Financial Instruments pursuant to Title VIII; (iv) the European Investment Bank and the European Investment Fund or any other subsidiary of the Bank; (v) bodies referred to in Articles 200 and 201; (vi) public law bodies or bodies governed by private law with a public service mission as far as these latter provide adequate financial guarantees; (viii) bodies governed by private law of a Member State, entrusted with the implementation of a public and private partnership and providing adequate financial guarantees; (viii) persons entrusted with the implementation of specific actions pursuant to Title V of the Treaty on the European Union, and idpersons entrusted with the implementation of specific actions in the CFSP pursuant to Title V of the Treaty on the European Union, and identified in the relevant basic act within the meaning of Article 51 of this Regulation. The Commission shall remain responsible for the implementation of the budget pursuant to Article 317 TFEU and shall inform the European Parliament on the operations carried out by the entiftied in the relevant basic act within the meaning ofs listed under points (i) to (viii). The financial statement referred to in Article 5127 of this Regulation shall provide a full statement of reasons for the choice of a particular entity listed under points (i) to (viii).
Amendment 30 #
2010/0395(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 55 – paragraph 2
Article 55 – paragraph 2
2. Member States and entities and persons listed under point (b) of paragraph 1 shall not have the status of authorising officer by delegationThe financing decision to be annexed to the annual activity report referred to in Article 63(9) shall specify the objective pursued, the expected results, the methods of implementation and the total amount of the financing plan. It shall also contain a description of the actions to be financed and an indication of the amount allocated to each action, and an indicative implementation timetable. In the case of indirect management, it shall also specify the implementing partner chosen, the criteria used and the tasks entrusted to it.
Amendment 31 #
2010/0395(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 57 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2
Article 57 – paragraph 2 – subparagraph 2
Persons referred to in point (viii) of Article 55(1)(b) may satisfy these requirements progressivelylaid down in points (a) to (e) of this paragraph progressively within the first six months. They shall adopt their financial rules with the Commission's prior consent.
Amendment 34 #
2010/0395(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 83 – paragraph 1
Article 83 – paragraph 1
1. INotwithstanding Article 82, in respect of any measure which may give rise to expenditure chargeable to the budget, the authorising officer responsible must first make a budgetary commitment before entering into a legal obligation with third parties or transferring funds to a trust fund on the basis of Article 178. However, in the case of humanitarian aid operations, civil protection operations and crisis management aid, and when an urgent situation outside the Union so demands, the registration of the amounts may be done immediately after the signature of the corresponding individual legal commitment.
Amendment 39 #
2010/0395(COD)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 178 – paragraph 2
Article 178 – paragraph 2
The contributions of the Union and the donors shall be entered into a specific bank account. These contributions are not integrated in the budget and are managed by the Commission under the responsibility of the authorising officer by delegation. The entities and persons referred to in point (b) of Article 55(13) may be entrusted with budget implementation tasks in accordance with the relevant rules for indirect managementshall apply.
Amendment 4 #
2009/0104(CNS)
Proposal for a regulation – amending act
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) The visa liberalisation dialogue initiated by the Commission, with a regional approach and a European perspective, includes all the Western Balkan countries, namely Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Montenegro and Serbia, on an equal footing and without any discrimination. The composition of the lists of third countries in Annexes I and II to Regulation (EC) No 539/2001 of 15 March 2001 should be, and should remain, consistent with the criteria laid down in recital (5) thereto. Some third countries, for which the situation has changed as regards these criteria,The same criteria laid down in the roadmap for visa liberalisation should be applied to all countries concerned. Some of the Western Balkan countries that have met the benchmarks should be admitted to the visa-free travel regime from 1 January 2010. Those countries that, despite having made substantial progress, have not fully met the benchmarks should be tgransferred from one Annex to the other. ted the same privilege as soon as they meet the benchmarks as set out in the roadmap.
Amendment 7 #
2009/0104(CNS)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 1
Recital 1
(1) The visa liberalisation dialogue initiated by the Commission with a regional approach and a European perspective, includes countries of the Western Balkans, namely Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Montenegro and Serbia on an equal footing and without any discrimination. The composition of the lists of third countries in Annexes I and II to Regulation (EC) No 539/2001 of 15 March 2001 should be, and should remain, consistent with the criteria laid down in recital (5) thereto. Some third countries, for which the situation has changed as regards these criteria, should be transferred from one Annex to the otherThe same criteria laid down in the roadmaps for visa liberalisation should be applied to all countries concerned.
Amendment 8 #
2009/0104(CNS)
Proposal for a regulation – amending act
Recital 3 a (new)
Recital 3 a (new)
(3a) With the aim of furthering the implementation of the Thessaloniki agenda and as part of the regional approach, the Commission should start a visa dialogue with Kosovo and establish a tailor-made roadmap for visa facilitation and liberalisation similar to the roadmap established with other Western Balkan countries. This should be without prejudice to Member States' competence as regards the recognition of Kosovo as an independent state.
Amendment 8 #
2009/0104(CNS)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 1 a (new)
Recital 1 a (new)
(1a) All of the Western Balkan countries that have met the benchmarks should be admitted to the visa-free travel regime from the beginning of 2010. Those countries that, despite having made substantial progress, have not fully met the benchmarks should be granted the same privilege as soon as they meet the benchmarks as set out in the corresponding roadmaps for visa liberalisation.
Amendment 11 #
2009/0104(CNS)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 2 a (new)
Recital 2 a (new)
(2a) With the aim of furthering the implementation of the Thessaloniki agenda and as part of its regional approach, the Commission should start a visa dialogue with Kosovo and establish a tailor-made roadmap for visa facilitation and liberalisation similar to those established with other Western Balkan countries. This should be without prejudice to Member States' competence as regards the recognition of Kosovo as an independent state.
Amendment 13 #
2009/0104(CNS)
Proposal for a regulation – amending act
Recital 4 a (new)
Recital 4 a (new)
Amendment 14 #
2009/0104(CNS)
Proposal for a regulation – amending act
Recital 4 b (new)
Recital 4 b (new)
(4b) The Council, while commending the relevant recent progress achieved by Albania and Bosnia and Herzegovina towards meeting the benchmarks, calls on the relevant Albanian and Bosnia and Herzegovina authorities to adopt, without delay, the necessary reforms to fully meet the benchmarks.
Amendment 15 #
2009/0104(CNS)
Proposal for a regulation – amending act
Recital 4 c (new)
Recital 4 c (new)
(4c) The Council asks the Commission to assist the relevant Albanian and Bosnian and Herzegovina authorities in this respect.
Amendment 15 #
2009/0104(CNS)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4 a (new)
Recital 4 a (new)
(4a) As regards Albania and Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Commission should, without delay and not later than in the spring of 2010, present its report on the achievements made by those two countries in meeting all the benchmarks set in the roadmap.
Amendment 16 #
2009/0104(CNS)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4 b (new)
Recital 4 b (new)
Amendment 17 #
2009/0104(CNS)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4 c (new)
Recital 4 c (new)
(4c) The Council, while commending the relevant recent progress achieved by Albania and Bosnia and Herzegovina towards meeting the benchmarks, calls on the relevant Albanian and Bosnia and Herzegovina authorities to adopt, without delay, the necessary reforms to fully meet the benchmarks.
Amendment 18 #
2009/0104(CNS)
Proposal for a regulation – amending act
Article 1 – point 1 – point -a (new)
Article 1 – point 1 – point -a (new)
Regulation (EC) No 539/2001
Annex I – Part 1
Annex I – Part 1
(-a) in Part 1, double asterisks ** and a corresponding footnote should be added to the references to Albania and Bosnia and Herzegovina, as follows: "Albania **" "Bosnia and Herzegovina **" ------------------- "** The exemption from the visa requirement granted to holders of biometric passports will apply on the basis of a legislative act to be adopted following the presentation of a corresponding proposal by the European Commission."
Amendment 18 #
2009/0104(CNS)
Proposal for a regulation
Recital 4 d (new)
Recital 4 d (new)
(4d) The Council asks the Commission to assist the relevant authorities of Albania and Bosnia and Herzegovina in this respect.
Amendment 21 #
2009/0104(CNS)
Proposal for a regulation
Article 1 - paragraph 1 - point a a (new)
Article 1 - paragraph 1 - point a a (new)
Regulation (EC) No 539/2001
Annex I - part 1
Annex I - part 1
(aa) in Part 1, the references to Albania and Bosnia and Herzegovina are replaced by the following: "Albania**, Bosnia and Herzegovina ** ------------------- ** The exemption from the visa requirement granted to holders of biometric passports will apply in accordance with Community law"