European Commissioner for Equality, Helena Dalli, on behalf of the Commission, defended the EU's funding rules in a written answer on 26 June 2026, responding to questions from MEPs Stephen Nikola Bartulica, Aurelijus Veryga, Jadwiga Wiśniewska, and Bert-Jan Ruissen about the European Citizen's Initiative 'My Voice, My Choice'. The answer clarifies that EU grants must be used for specified purposes and are closely monitored, with no evidence that EU funds directly supported the initiative.
The Commission's response, which references the Funding and Tenders Portal and previous answers, underscores that beneficiaries like the International Planned Parenthood Federation and the European Women's Lobby must publish details of any third-party funding. The Commission notes that none of the organisations listed as sponsors of the initiative appear on these beneficiaries' websites, implying no direct EU funding link. The answer provides no new concrete proposals or commitments, instead reiterating existing transparency and monitoring mechanisms.
This exchange highlights tensions between MEPs concerned about EU funding for reproductive rights initiatives and the Commission's stance on adhering to financial regulations. The Commission's answer signals a policy orientation towards maintaining current oversight rather than tightening rules, with no immediate institutional follow-up expected beyond standard grant monitoring.