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European Parliamentary Research Service Blog
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Updated: 2 months 3 weeks ago

Local and regional banking providers [What Europe does for you]

Wed, 08/22/2018 - 08:30

With European elections coming up in May 2019, you probably want to know how the European Union impacts your daily life, before you think about voting. In the latest in a series of posts on what Europe does for you, your family, your business and your wellbeing, we look at what Europe does for local and regional banking providers.

Whether you are a business owner, want to start one, or a financial intermediary, you have access to EU funds. The European Investment Bank provides credit lines to finance providers such as local banks and financial institutions, helping them develop their lending portfolio and offer greater access to credit to a wider range of clients. This support helps finance the medium and long-term loans offered to private sector firms, commercially run public-sector enterprises or even local authorities. The Bank invests €75 billion in over 400 projects in a typical year. While such loans must meet some conditions (e.g. increase local growth and employment or help protect the environment), they offer benefits such as long time-to-maturity and attractive pricing. The finance providers can also make use of the technical assistance offered both to the intermediaries and the final recipients.

Twitter Hashtag #EUandME

© Elnur / Fotolia

In addition, EU microfinance support tools help microfinance providers (e.g. private or public banks, non-bank microfinance institutions and not-for-profit microcredit providers) to offer loans up to €25 000 for setting up or developing a small business. EU support includes not only loans but also guarantees, which help share the providers’ potential risk of loss. Microloan conditions for entrepreneurs vary depending on the provider, but the EU makes sure that priority goes to groups which have difficulty getting conventional credit, e.g. social enterprises and the unemployed. In addition, technical support is available for microcredit providers to help them build capacity.

Further information
Categories: European Union

Residential property buyers [What Europe does for you]

Mon, 08/20/2018 - 08:30

With European elections coming up in May 2019, you probably want to know how the European Union impacts your daily life, before you think about voting. In the latest in a series of posts on what Europe does for you, your family, your business and your wellbeing, we look at what Europe does for residential property buyers.

Many if not most Europeans looking to purchase their first apartment, or thinking of buying a bigger apartment or house to fit a growing family, take out mortgages for the purpose. Under these contracts, the purchased property secures the mortgage and, should repayment obligations not be fulfilled, allows the loan provider (usually a bank) to seize the property and sell it to pay off the loan. Taking out a mortgage loan is therefore a very important financial decision, entailing a financial commitment that can last for decades and carrying risks for both the buyer and the bank.

Twitter Hashtag #EUandME

© Stasique / Fotolia

The Mortgage Credit Directive is designed to ensure that anyone taking out a mortgage to purchase a property is adequately informed and protected against the risks. The directive applies to all loans made to consumers in order to buy residential property.

The directive states that lenders are required to provide consumers with clear and detailed information on loan conditions, as well as to assess their creditworthiness according to common EU standards. Furthermore it sets out common quality standards and business conduct principles for all EU lenders and establishes the right to repay credit earlier than determined in a contract. Last but not least, it sets up an EU ‘passport’ scheme that allows banks that are authorised to operate in one EU country, to deliver services across the whole EU, thus offering consumers a far greater choice than what they would normally find nationally.

Further information
Categories: European Union

People unhappy with their purchase [What Europe does for you]

Thu, 08/16/2018 - 08:30

With European elections coming up in May 2019, you probably want to know how the European Union impacts your daily life, before you think about voting. In the latest in a series of posts on what Europe does for you, your family, your business and your wellbeing, we look at what Europe does for people unhappy with their purchase.

Have you have ever bought something that you weren’t happy with when you got home? If so, EU rules provide you with a certain set of rights.

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© Samo Trebizan / Fotolia

One is that you can change your mind within 14 days, without giving a reason, if your purchase was made online, over the phone, by mail order, or you bought it from a door-to-door salesperson. Be careful though, because this right does not apply when you buy a product in a shop, or if the product was tailor-made especially for you.

Regardless of where you bought the item, if it is faulty, you have the right to have it repaired or replaced by the seller. If this does not work out, you have the right to get the price reduced or a full refund. Throughout the EU, the legal guarantee for products is always at least two years. However, during the first six months there is an assumption that a product that doesn’t work was faulty from the start, after which, in most countries, it is you who has to prove that this was the case.

Remember, though, that these rules apply only if you bought from a business. If you buy from a private person, even if the goods they sell are new, EU consumer rules do not apply and your rights depend exclusively on national law.

If you have problems with an item you bought in another EU country, and you are unable to resolve the issue with a professional seller, you can turn to the European Consumer Centre. Regardless of where the product was bought, you can also try to settle the dispute out-of-court using an alternative dispute resolution procedure or through the ODR platform if it was bought online.

Further information
Categories: European Union

Parents and parents-to-be [What Europe does for you]

Tue, 08/14/2018 - 08:30

With European elections coming up in May 2019, you probably want to know how the European Union impacts your daily life, before you think about voting. In the latest in a series of posts on what Europe does for you, your family, your business and your wellbeing, we look at what Europe does for parents and parents-to-be.

As soon as you find out that you are going to become a parent, you are confronted with a new situation that requires not only mental readiness but also some basic equipment.

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You will need the means to transport the new family member (pushchair, car seat or baby carrier), a place for him or her to sleep safely (cot, barriers), clothes, nappies, and the list goes on. Although it is still early days, it might not be long before you start thinking about toys. Then after a few months, you might start buying ready-made baby food.

Every product on sale in the European Union has to comply with general safety rules. Particular rules apply to toys, electrical and electronic goods, cosmetics, chemicals and other specific product groups. European standards ensure the safety of toys, nursery products and furniture, child resistant products and protective devices, and playground and sports equipment for children. Children’s car seats have to comply with global rules.

Manufacturers declare that a product has been checked against all essential EU safety criteria by using the CE conformity mark, which is legally required for products sold in the European Union, Iceland, Lichtenstein and Norway. The rapid alert system for non-food, dangerous products (RAPEX) facilitates the rapid exchange of information between 31 countries: consumers are then warned and the product taken off the shelves. RAPEX weekly reports provide information about dangerous products.

Food for infants and young children, meanwhile, must meet special strict EU requirements regarding nutritional composition and food safety.

Further information
Categories: European Union

People concerned about food safety [What Europe does for you]

Mon, 08/13/2018 - 08:30

With European elections coming up in May 2019, you probably want to know how the European Union impacts your daily life, before you think about voting. In the latest in a series of posts on what Europe does for you, your family, your business and your wellbeing, we look at what Europe does for people who like chips.

If you love chips or indeed any other fried or baked foods such as crisps, biscuits or toast, you may have heard of acrylamide, a harmful substance present in these foods.

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© CroMary / Shutterstock

Discovered by Swedish scientists in 2002, acrylamide can be found in a wide range of everyday starch-rich foods that are fried, baked or roasted at high temperatures. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) concluded in 2015 that acrylamide in food is a public health concern, highlighting links with cancer and obesity.

Following EFSA’s opinion, the European Commission presented a proposal in June 2017 on measures to reduce acrylamide levels in food. The new rules apply from 11 April 2018.

Ingredients used and storage and processing temperatures have a major influence on acrylamide formation. Manufacturers should therefore select potato and flour varieties with lower acrylamide-forming potential and keep to the right storage temperature. They are advised to wash or soak chips before frying, to keep the oil temperature as low as possible, and to control the colour of the final product, as a longer cooking time and deeper colour increase the amount of acrylamide. In addition, manufacturers must measure the levels of acrylamide in their products to check them against the values set by the Commission. If these voluntary efforts fail to be sufficiently effective, the Commission is considering setting binding limits for the food industry.

The way you cook at home also has a substantial impact, so the advice is to fry your chips until golden yellow, not brown, and to avoid overcooking your toast.

Further information
Categories: European Union

Teleworkers [What Europe does for you]

Fri, 08/10/2018 - 08:30

With European elections coming up in May 2019, you probably want to know how the European Union impacts your daily life, before you think about voting. In the latest in a series of posts on what Europe does for you, your family, your business and your wellbeing, we look at what Europe does for teleworkers.

If you work from home, you are among the 17 % of EU employees engaged in telework or mobile work. This type of work can be good for your work-life balance, reducing commuting time and boosting productivity; but it also brings the risk of longer working hours and work-home interference.

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© Jelena / Fotolia

The 2002 European Framework Agreement on Telework improved the protection of teleworkers and laid down rules to ensure they enjoy the same rights as their counterparts working on the employer’s premises. The guidelines cover data protection, privacy, work organisation, health and safety, training, and career prospects. They have been implemented in accordance with each country’s national procedures, via changes to legislation or collective agreements.

Further protection for teleworkers is offered by EU rules on working time and health and safety. The Working Time Directive sets standards for maximum working hours, daily and weekly rest periods, annual leave, and night and shift work. The Health and Safety at Work Directive, and additional rules on the use of work equipment, display screens and workplace requirements, helps to make sure working environments are safe, also covering the use of ICT equipment and ergonomics. The European Pillar of Social Rights puts a strong emphasis on fair working conditions and equal opportunities for workers in atypical working conditions, such as teleworkers.

The EU also publishes research on telework. Eurofound and Eurostat prepare statistics, surveys and reports on the extent of telework, sectors and types of jobs, and the effects on people and firms.

Further information
Categories: European Union

Hairdressers [What Europe does for you]

Thu, 08/09/2018 - 08:30

With European elections coming up in May 2019, you probably want to know how the European Union impacts your daily life, before you think about voting. In the latest in a series of posts on what Europe does for you, your family, your business and your wellbeing, we look at what Europe does for hairdressers.

The hairdressing sector in Europe employs more than a million people. Together with other owners of small and medium-sized companies, as a hairdresser you can benefit from the EU’s small business-friendly legislation. You can access EU-backed loans for small businesses and European market information. Enterprise Europe Network makes it easier to find a new business partner in Europe. Moreover, EU laws allow EU countries to apply reduced value added tax rates to various services, including hairdressing. This reduction, if applied, helps to increase profit margins for the sector.

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© JackF / Fotolia

It is estimated that there are around 400 000 hairdressing salons in the EU. Customers tend to view salons as safe and relaxing places, probably not realising that for hairdressers themselves the workplace can, in fact, be very harmful. According to the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EU-OSHA), exposure to chemicals and the nature of hairdressing work more generally can lead to various skin and respiratory diseases, chronic pain, physical injuries and even cancer.

The EU has already funded two projects focused on researching and implementing the prevention of occupational skin diseases in the hairdressing sector – SafeHair 1.0 (2010) and SafeHair 2.0 (2011). In addition, there is a growing body of EU occupational safety and health legislation that aims to protect all people, including hairdressers, from exposure to dangerous substances and other health threats at work.

Further information
Categories: European Union

Vocational students [What Europe does for you]

Wed, 08/08/2018 - 08:30

With European elections coming up in May 2019, you probably want to know how the European Union impacts your daily life, before you think about voting. In the latest in a series of posts on what Europe does for you, your family, your business and your wellbeing, we look at what Europe does for vocational students.

If you are studying on a vocational or professional track, your talents are key to a strong economy and the EU wants to help you develop your skills. The EU invests in improving awareness, creating opportunities, and supporting those in charge to provide the best quality and most relevant training possible.

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© auremar / Fotolia

Still considering your options? The European Vocational Skills week, with more than 1 000 events across Europe showcases opportunities for young people and raises awareness of the importance of vocational education and apprenticeships.

If you are already a vocational education student, Erasmus+ offers mobility opportunities so you can carry out part of your studies or training abroad. A new initiative, ErasmusPro, even caters for long term mobility.

Your learning experience should be both relevant and worthwhile. The EU is keen to ensure that all players who shape vocational education in EU countries define good quality vocational education and training together. To understand how well things are working in practice, the EU also provides studies and research. And when you go to another country, it will also be easier for your skills and qualifications to be recognised when EU countries understand each other’s training systems better.

Of course, you want to find work at the end of your studies, so the EU also helps develop links between vocational education and training (VET) schools, businesses in a given sector, and public authorities. Together they identify skills the labour market needs and develop motivating courses that prepare you for a job that appeals to you.

Further information
Categories: European Union

The Privacy Shield: Update on the state of play of the EU-US data transfer rules

Tue, 08/07/2018 - 14:00

Written by Shara Monteleone and Laura Puccio,

© vector_master / Fotolia

In the 2015 Schrems case, the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) declared the European Commission’s 2000 decision on the ‘adequacy’ of the EU-US Safe Harbour regime invalid. This regime had formed the legal basis to allow transfers of data, for commercial purposes, from the EU to the United States of America (USA).

One of the main concepts on which the reasoning of the Court relied is that of ‘equivalence’ – between the level of protection existing in a third country, and the European data protection system. The Court invalidated the Commission’s Safe Harbour adequacy decision as it did not contain any findings regarding the existence in the USA of laws and practices limiting interference on the right to privacy and data protection (e.g. interference by public authorities for security purposes), nor of effective judicial remedies for individuals. According to the judgment, laws which establish exceptions (such as enacting measures for security purposes) which could lead to conflict with fundamental rights should lay down clear and precise rules regarding the scope and application of the measure, and minimum safeguards against the risk of abuse, including unlawful access and further use of such data. The corollary of this statement is that derogations and restrictions to data protection should be allowed only if strictly necessary. Moreover, whereas the self-certification mechanism for US-based companies could be part of an adequate data protection system, it should be accompanied by effective enforcement and oversight mechanisms.

As a consequence, the judgment ruled the Safe Harbour framework, on which a large number of companies had relied, insufficient to ensure the high level of protection for EU citizens required under EU law. This invalidation of Safe Harbour created legal uncertainty and the need for a new arrangement. In the meantime, more than 4 000 US companies making data transfers switched to other existing tools, albeit more burdensome and limited, such as Binding Corporate Rules or Standard Contractual Clauses.

In 2016, the European Commission and the USA adopted a new framework for transatlantic exchange of personal data, known as the Privacy Shield. Within a year, more than 3000 companies had subscribed to the new framework, and the US Federal Trade Commission had already triggered three cases of non-compliance with Privacy Shield. In September 2017, the first joint annual review of Privacy Shield took place. Although considered to be working well, a number of recommendations for further improvements were issued. Moreover, a range of concerns still remain to be addressed (not least in view of the recent Facebook / Cambridge Analytica scandal). The European Parliament adopted a resolution in July 2018, which, although acknowledging some improvements, reiterates a number of persistent concerns on Privacy Shield, and calls on the Commission to suspend the Shield.. Unless the concerns can be resolved satisfactorily, the underlying legal uncertainty may not disappear, and Privacy Shield is also likely to end up challenged before the CJEU, like its predecessor.

Read the complete in-depth analysis on “The Privacy Shield: Update on the state of play of the EU-US data transfer rules“.

 

 

Redress mechanisms available to individuals

 

 

Avenues of redress for undue access and use by US public authorities

Categories: European Union

People who do not drive [What Europe does for you]

Tue, 08/07/2018 - 08:30

With European elections coming up in May 2019, you probably want to know how the European Union impacts your daily life, before you think about voting. In the latest in a series of posts on what Europe does for you, your family, your business and your wellbeing, we look at what Europe does for people who do not drive.

There is roughly one car for every two people in the EU, but not all Europeans drive. For people living in densely built up areas, the convenience of a car may be outweighed by the inconvenience of finding a parking spot; the cost of buying, maintaining and running a car; or health or environmental considerations. Not driving means relying on alternative forms of getting about: walking, cycling, public transport, taxis – and for longer distances, buses, trains and aeroplanes. The EU is working to improve these services on two fronts: by encouraging investment in public transport and cross-border transport links for the movement of people, goods and services; and by fostering competition on transport routes across the continent, to secure a better deal for consumers.

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© hedgehog94 / Fotolia

The EU supports city and cross-border transport by carrying out studies and transport policy analysis; promoting the exchange of best practice between local authorities; and helping local authorities to invest in cycle infrastructure and more walkable public spaces through the European structural investment funds. Given that national transport networks often stop at national borders, the EU also invests in bridging cross-border transport links and removing bottlenecks. The EU guarantees passenger rights when travelling in Europe by air, rail, bus and coach, or ship. Finally, the EU sets air quality standards and targets, and holds countries to account when they fail to meet those targets. For Europeans travelling on foot or by bike, cleaner air means a more pleasant, healthier journey.

Further information
Categories: European Union

Disabled road users [What Europe does for you]

Mon, 08/06/2018 - 08:30

With European elections coming up in May 2019, you probably want to know how the European Union impacts your daily life, before you think about voting. In the latest in a series of posts on what Europe does for you, your family, your business and your wellbeing, we look at what Europe does for disabled road users.

Perhaps you, or someone you know, are one of the estimated 14 to 17 % people aged over 15 in the EU who suffer from a disability? You are not alone, as these numbers are expected to rise, mainly due to the aging population. By 2020, approximately 120 million Europeans will have a disability. The EU is working to remove barriers preventing your equal participation in life activities, particularly as regards your access to transport.

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© Christophe Fouquin / Fotolia

People who are entitled to a disability parking card can use it in all EU countries, because the cards are issued according to a standardised EU model and recognised by all Member States.

On long-distance journeys (over 250 km) by bus and coach, disabled Europeans are entitled to assistance at designated terminals, and help with getting on and off the bus. The carrier must also allow you to be accompanied by a person of your choice free of charge, if this solves security or safety concerns that would otherwise prevent you from travelling. The EU also introduced common rules on adapting and approving vehicles used to transport persons with disabilities, and requires EU countries to put national rules in place on transporting people with reduced mobility. EU rules should ease access for disabled passengers by standardising solutions, such as priority seats, limits on step height, handhold and ramp availability, and clear marking. In addition, the European Accessibility Act, which will set EU-level requirements to increase supply of key services at more competitive prices for disabled users, includes transport.

Further information
Categories: European Union

Breastfeeding mothers [What Europe does for you]

Fri, 08/03/2018 - 08:30

With European elections coming up in May 2019, you probably want to know how the European Union impacts your daily life, before you think about voting. In the latest in a series of posts on what Europe does for you, your family, your business and your wellbeing, we look at what Europe does for breastfeeding mothers.

If you recently gave birth and are breastfeeding your baby, you may be wondering how you are going to reconcile the need to go back to work with the desire to continue breastfeeding. As mother’s milk is known to be very important for infants, the EU supports breastfeeding, including in the workplace, by means of legislation, information campaigns, and funding for projects and research.

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EU law forbids discrimination against breastfeeding mothers, especially in the work place. Their health and safety is the highest priority and EU countries must comply with minimum standards. If working conditions could harm the breastfeeding mother, the employer must adjust them to ensure her well-being. If that is not possible, she must be given leave. EU law also gives protection against night work for a period following childbirth. All the while, the mother’s employment rights must be upheld.

Although there has been a significant progress regarding the protection of breastfeeding mothers on their return to work, there is room for improvement. The EU is currently working on more detailed rules to facilitate successful transitions between maternity leave and employment, including breastfeeding facilities at the work place and breaks during working hours. The EU believes that mother-friendly practices and child welfare should be a public health priority across Europe.

Further information
Categories: European Union

Roma Holocaust Memorial Day, 2 August

Thu, 08/02/2018 - 09:00

Written by Magdalena Pasikowska-Schnass,

The tragedy of the Holocaust was a crucial consideration in the development of European integration; Simone Veil, the first female President of the European Parliament, described it as the horrible price paid for allowing totalitarian ideologies, racism, xenophobia and anti-Semitism take hold on the continent, with the resultant dehumanisation of certain groups of people. Veil also deeply regretted the lack of widespread knowledge of the whole history of the period, including that the memory of the Roma Holocaust was not brought to public attention.

It was only in 1982 that Germany recognised the racial grounds for the deportations, imprisonment and extermination of Roma and Sinti people in Nazi concentration camps in Europe. It was also not until 2001 that the Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum devoted a permanent exhibition to Roma and Sinti victims, where Romani and Sinti, armed with sticks and stones, had resisted being removed from barracks in May 1944. On 2 August 1944 the Nazis, fearing the rebellion could spread, sent around 3 000 Roma people from the Gypsy Camp to their death.

This was just one of many events that marked the Roma Holocaust, which took a toll of between 220 000 and 500 000 Roma victims – between one quarter and a half of the Roma and Sinti population of the pre-war period. The exact number is not known, since the victims’ families did not officially report their losses and the perpetrators erased the records of their crimes.

In April 2015, the European Parliament adopted a resolution on the occasion of ‘International Roma Day – anti-Gypsyism in Europe and EU recognition of the memorial day of the Roma genocide during World War II’. The general term ‘Roma’ covers various groups, such as Roma, Travellers, Sinti, Manouches, Kalés, Romanichels, Boyash, Ashkalis, Égyptiens, Yéniches, Doms and Loms, with diverse cultures and lifestyles. In the context of growing anti-Gypsyism, anti-Semitism, racism and xenophobia in Europe, the EP called for the establishment of a European day of commemoration of the victims of Roma genocide during World War II ‘The European Roma Holocaust Memorial Day’. This call was reiterated in a further EP resolution adopted in October 2017 ‘Fundamental rights aspects in Roma integration in the EU: fighting anti-gypsyism’, designating 2 August as a Memorial Day, as well as appealing for the inclusion of Roma victims in Holocaust Remembrance Day on 27 January, the anniversary of the liberation of the Auschwitz camp in January 1945.

The European Parliament commemorated the memory of the Roma and Sinti victims of Nazi extermination on 27 January 2018, inviting representatives of Roma people for the commemoration and hosting an exhibition devoted to Roma genocide.

Holocaust education is crucial to keeping the memory of Roma victims alive. EU funding from the Europe for Citizens programme supports projects related to World War II Roma history. The Roma Genocide Remembrance Initiative is one such project, undertaken and coordinated by the ternYpe International Roma Youth Network, aiming at raising awareness of the Roma Holocaust among educators. Macedonia and Hungary participated in a similar project ‘Roma Genocide – Part of European History‘, and commemorated Roma victims on 2 August 2015 in the Csillagerőd (Star Fortress) in Komárom, from where thousands of Roma were deported to concentration camps.

Categories: European Union

Diabetes sufferers [What Europe does for you]

Thu, 08/02/2018 - 08:30

With European elections coming up in May 2019, you probably want to know how the European Union impacts your daily life, before you think about voting. In the latest in a series of posts on what Europe does for you, your family, your business and your wellbeing, we look at what Europe does for diabetes sufferers.

Have you had your blood sugar level checked lately? Did you know that a simple test can diagnose diabetes and spare you a lot of health problems, or even save your life? Diabetes is a chronic disease affecting over 33 million EU citizens, characterised by elevated levels of blood sugar that over time can cause serious damage to the heart, blood vessels, eyes, kidneys, and nerves. There are two main types of diabetes: type 1 results from a lack of insulin production and type 2 from the body’s ineffective use of insulin. Type 2 diabetes accounts for almost 90 % of diabetes cases and can often be prevented by a healthy lifestyle, regular physical activity and maintaining a normal body weight.

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© Kwangmoo / Fotolia

EU countries are responsible for their own healthcare policies. The EU complements these policies, and focuses on prevention and research, in particular in the context of its work on non-communicable diseases. From 2007 to 2013, projects under the EU’s Seventh Framework Programme gave a big boost to diabetes research. The programme funded over 150 projects on diabetes, totalling €376 million. Under the current Horizon 2020 research programme, the EU is still supporting effective efforts to prevent the disease and treat patients. Recent examples include Feel4Diabetes, which is developing a community-based approach for families, because diabetes tends to recur in families with history of the disease. PAMperR involves research into diabetic retinopathy, POWER2DM aims to develop a system for diabetes patient empowerment, while ePREDICE focuses on early prevention of diabetes complications.

Further information
Categories: European Union

People who exercise to keep fit [What Europe does for you]

Wed, 08/01/2018 - 08:30

With European elections coming up in May 2019, you probably want to know how the European Union impacts your daily life, before you think about voting. In the latest in a series of posts on what Europe does for you, your family, your business and your wellbeing, we look at what Europe does for people who exercise to keep fit.

Most people know they should get more exercise. There is a strong link between physical activity and physical and mental wellbeing, and between membership of associations like sports clubs and community cohesion. But too few Europeans practise any sport or exercise. For many, the issue is not so much motivation as finding the time and opportunities. Initiatives like the European Week of Sport and the sport chapter of Erasmus+ were conceived to show Europeans just how easy it can be to make small but regular amounts of physical activity a habit. Sport and fitness are part of public health policy, which is mostly decided by national governments, but the EU is taking steps to remove barriers to cross-border collaboration and recreation through sport.

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The European Week of Sport was launched in 2015 and takes place every year in September. The week is an occasion for events across Europe encouraging people of all ages, backgrounds and fitness levels to experiment with a physical activity under the hashtag #beactive. This can be anything from yoga at home to outdoor calisthenics, lifting weights at the gym, or something as simple as taking the office stairs. Erasmus+, mostly known for its educational exchanges, also supports sport and fitness through not-for-profit pan-European events; research and data-gathering to inform policy-making; and small collaborative partnerships in areas such as tackling prejudice in sport. The EU is convinced that one way of getting Europeans to be more active is by making it easier to exercise together.

Further information
Categories: European Union

People who exercise outdoors [What Europe does for you]

Tue, 07/31/2018 - 08:30

With European elections coming up in May 2019, you probably want to know how the European Union impacts your daily life, before you think about voting. In the latest in a series of posts on what Europe does for you, your family, your business and your wellbeing, we look at what Europe does for people who exercise outdoors.

You do not need to be a member of a gym to exercise. City streets, parks and green belt areas offer plenty of space to walk, run, practise yoga or do other bodyweight exercises. We cannot influence the weather, but there are other ways in which the public space can be made more inviting for people who want to exercise outdoors. One is by offering more and better purpose-built facilities, such as protected cycle paths, athletics tracks, pull-up bars and outdoor ice skating rinks. The other is by improving air quality, which can be a significant disincentive to exercising outdoors in urban centres.

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Local and national authorities take the urban planning decisions that shape facilities in public parks and the space given to walkers and cyclists, but the EU does influence those decisions by promoting greener urban planning through sustainable urban transport plans, including by handing out annual prizes and offering detailed guidance on how to improve city transport networks, step by step. The EU’s urban air quality standards are among the strictest in the world, allowing less than half as much nitrogen dioxide as the US or Canada. By encouraging people to switch to exercise-intensive transportation like cycling, and by attracting people outside with cleaner air, the EU is helping people who want to exercise outdoors.

Further information
Categories: European Union

Reform Support Programme 2021 2027 [EU Legislation in Progress]

Mon, 07/30/2018 - 18:00

Written by Agnieszka Widuto (1st edition),

© Thomas Reimer / Fotolia

The European Commission adopted the proposal on the establishment of the Reform Support Programmeon 31 May 2018, as part of the package for the upcoming multiannual financial framework for 2021-2027. The programme will provide financial and technical support for Member States to implement reforms aimed at increasing the resilience and modernising their economies, including priority reforms identified in the European Semester.

The overall budget for the programme is €25 billion. It comprises three elements: a reform delivery tool (financial support); a Technical Support Instrument (technical expertise, building on the current Structural Reform Support Programme 2017-2020); and a convergence facility (preparation for adopting the euro). The Reform Support Programme will be open to all Member States on a voluntary basis, with no co-financing required.

In the European Parliament, the Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs (ECON) and Committee on Budgets (BUDG) will work jointly on this file under Rule 55 of Parliament’s Rules of Procedure. The next step is the publication of the draft report, expected in autumn 2018.

Versions: Proposal for a regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the establishment of the Reform Support Programme Committees responsible:

Rapporteurs:

 

  Economic and Monetary Affairs (ECON) and Budgets (BUDG) (jointly under Rule 55)

Caroline Nagtegaal (ALDE, the Netherlands)

Eider Gardiazabal Rubial (S&D, Spain)

  COM(2018) 391 of 31.5.2018

2018/0213 (COD)

Ordinary legislative procedure (COD) (Parliament and Council on equal footing – formerly ‘co-decision’) Next steps expected: Publication of draft report

 

Categories: European Union

EU law for an open independent and efficient European administration: Summary report of the public consultation

Mon, 07/30/2018 - 14:00

Written by Tatjana Evas,

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As a follow-up to the European Parliament resolution of 9 June 2016 calling for an open, efficient and independent European Union administration – 2016/2610(RSP), rapporteur: Heidi Hautala (Greens/EFA, Finland) – the Parliament’s Committee on Legal Affairs (JURI) asked the European Parliamentary Research Service’s European Added Value Unit to carry out a public consultation. The aim of the consultation was to survey public opinion, first, on general perceptions and attitudes towards the EU administration; second, on personal experience in dealing with the EU institutions; and, third, on further action that the EU should take in the area of EU administrative law to address the shortcomings identified.

In response to the consultation, the Parliament received 166 fully completed online responses from 20 EU Member States. Incomplete responses were not taken into consideration for analysis but not for statistical purposes. Among the 166 completed responses, 155 contributions came from individuals and 11 from organisations.

The key findings of the public consultations are summarised in figure 1 below:

Specific trends:

General perceptions of the EU administration were mixed: 52 % had a positive perception while 36 % had a negative perception of the functioning of the EU institutions. Professional interests, direct experience and media were three main sources of information underpinning the opinions formed by respondents regarding the EU administration. Perceived general awareness of what services the EU institutions provided for the public and companies was high: 73.5 % of respondents indicated that they knew what services were provided by the EU institutions. At the same time, only 45.8 % of all respondents indicated that they were familiar with their right to submit a petition to the European Parliament.

Experiences with the EU institutions were also mixed: 24 % of respondents had a negative experience, 30 % mixed and 46 % positive. The European Commission, European Parliament and EU agencies were the administrations with which respondents had had most direct contact. Access to documents (46 %); requests for general information (44 %) and EPSO competitions (31 %) were the top three reasons for respondents having had contact with the EU administration. The three main problems contributing to negative experiences included the length of the procedure (42 %), difficulty in finding information (37 %), and the quality of the reply received (30 %).

There was a high level of support from the respondents (76 %) for additional measures at EU level to reinforce EU administrative procedures. The two main reasons why respondents would like the EU to take action were: to improve efficiency (57 %), and to improve the transparency (50 %) of the EU administration. In response to the question on how the EU should best reinforce the functioning of the EU administration, 82 % of respondents were in favour of adopting a new law (52 % supported a new law setting out minimum standards, while 30 % supported a new law with full harmonisation). The proportion of respondents who supported the adoption of a non-binding code of conduct was low (7 %). While not in favour of a new law, 23% of respondents would prefer the EU to improve existing legislation; similarly, 23 % did not support a new law but would rather see measures focusing on technical ways to simplify public access to the EU administration.

Read the complete study on ‘EU law for an open independent and efficient European administration: Summary report of the public consultation‘.

Categories: European Union

Brexit: Latest state of play [What Think Tanks are thinking]

Mon, 07/30/2018 - 12:00

Written by Marcin Grajewski,

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The politically charged negotiations on the United Kingdom’s withdrawal from the European Union moved forward a little in July, when the British Cabinet put detailed proposals on the table for the future framework of EU-UK relations. The document, which envisages relatively close ties between the EU and UK, in trade and several other areas, after Britain leaves in March 2019, prompted the resignations of two senior ministers David Davis and Boris Johnson, who favour an even harder Brexit. EU officials have said that the new proposals contain some constructive elements, although many questions remain unanswered.

This note offers links to reports and commentaries from some major international think-tanks and research institutes on Brexit negotiations and related issues. More reports on the topic can be found in a previous edition of ‘What Think Tanks are thinking’, published in May 2018.

Brexit: Next steps in UK’s withdrawal from the EU
House of Commons Library, July 2018

UK business should play for extra time in the Brexit negotiations
European Policy Centre, July 2018

The Brexit White Paper: What it must address
The UK in a Changing Europe, July 2018

Brexit brief
Institute of International and European Affairs, July 2018

Brexit and the British growth model
Police Exchange, July 2018

An equal exit? The distributional consequences of leaving the EU
Institute for Public Policy Research, July 2018

The EU’s problem with May’s plan for Brexit
Centre for European Reform, July 2018

Brexit: One failed plan, two resignations, and plenty of uncertainty
Atlantic Council, July 2018

Four Brexit scenarios
Carnegie Europe, July 2018

A second Brexit referendum: The practical questions
Institute for Government, July 2018

Deal, no deal, or extension?
UK in a Changing Europe, July 2018

After Chequers, what has changed on Brexit?
Institute for Government, July 2018

The UK’s first international trade negotiation: Agriculture at the WTO
European Centre for International Political Economy, July 2018

Brexit: Time for a moratorium
LSE Blog, July 2018

Trump backed Brexit: Then he used it as leverage
Brookings Institution, July 2018

The Brexit White Paper: Room for improvement
Policy Exchange, July 2018

Trump’s misguided attack on European unity
Council on Foreign Relations, July 2018

Preparing business for a Brexit ‘no deal’: Questions the Government needs to answer
Institute for Government, July 2018

Brexit and European defence: What to expect from a “no-deal” outcome?
Instituto Affari Internazionali, July 2018

A Brexit deal is still not achieved
Bruegel, July 2018

The Brexit White Paper offers a compromise approach for negotiations, but seems to have little support in Parliament
Open Europe, July 2018

Europe’s response to May’s plan could cost her more ministers
Centre for European Reform, July 2018

Will UK working parents lose out after Brexit?
UK in a Changing Europe, July 2018

Brexit: Heading to a deal or no deal while UK politics implodes?
Scottish Centre on European Relations, July 2018

Britain must decide what kind of power it wants to be after Brexit
Chatham House, July 2018

Why Theresa May can’t figure out Brexit
Chatham House, July 2018

Theresa May’s Brexit model: Many questions, not least ‘why leave?’
Centre for European Policy Studies, July 2018

A political crisis looms over Brexit
Carnegie Europe, July 2018

Shattered illusions: The new Brexit proposals on customs
Centre for European Policy Studies, July 2018

Dead or alive? A UK-US trade deal
Centre for European Reform, July 2018

Chequers: ‘Soft’ Brexit or just any Brexit?
Scottish Centre on European Relations, July 2018

Brexit: Last call
European Policy Centre, July 2018

British fudge: Where now for the future UK-EU framework?
Scottish Centre on European Relations, July 2018 

Safer together: The United Kingdom and the future of European security and defence
Friends of Europe, June 2018

No ‘Global Britain’ after Brexit
Stiftung Wissenschaft und Politik, June 2018

Brexit report
DCU Brexit Institute, June 2018

Spain and the prospect of Brexit
Real Instituto Elcano, June 2018

Striking a balance: A blueprint for the future UK-EU economic partnership
Open Europe, June 2018

Which role for the Benelux post-Brexit?
Egmont, June 2018

Maintaining Europol security ties after Brexit
Rand Corporation, June 2018

The Brexit trap: Checking out is easier than leaving the EU
Atlantic Council, June 2018

Categories: European Union

Transplant patients [What Europe does for you]

Mon, 07/30/2018 - 08:30

With European elections coming up in May 2019, you probably want to know how the European Union impacts your daily life, before you think about voting. In the latest in a series of posts on what Europe does for you, your family, your business and your wellbeing, we look at what Europe does for transplant patients.

In the European Union, 16 patients die every day waiting for the organs they need. Around 60 000 patients are on waiting lists. Organ transplantation is becoming an increasingly common way to save human lives or to improve their daily life, but its application is limited by the shortage of available organs. Kidneys are the most frequently transplanted organ.

Twitter Hashtag #EUandME

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Transplant patients have been able to rely on EU quality and safety standards since 2010. The European action plan on organ donation and transplantation also strengthened cooperation between EU countries, therefore now those in need of an organ can benefit from the wider range of organs that cross-border donation can provide. Several EU initiatives help increase people’s awareness and willingness to donate. Recently, the European Parliament proposed the EUDONORG pilot project, which organises training for health professionals and other relevant groups, as well as national awareness events in EU countries.

The third EU health programme (2014-2020) funds projects and joint action with national authorities. One EU-funded project is FOEDUS (‘facilitating exchange of organs donated in EU Member States’) on cross-border organ exchange. The EU also finances the HOTT project, investigating the trafficking in human beings for the purpose of organ removal.

The results are encouraging and shows that when Europe pools its resources and expertise, it can deliver real results for patients.

Further information
Categories: European Union

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