Nikola MINCHEV

Policy topics Nikola MINCHEV is active on

What Nikola MINCHEV has said (37)

• 2026-03-19 “P-001159/2026 Answer given by Mr McGrath on behalf of the European Commission The European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) is an independent body of the EU. Accordingly, the Commission does not comment on ongoing investigations or on matters relating to EPPO cases. It is for the EPPO to ensure the continuity of its investigations and the appropriate internal allocation of resources, including with regard to the case in question. The Commission is currently carrying out an evaluation of the EPPO Regulation 1 . This provides an opportunity to reflect on the functioning of the current framework, including the rules governing appointments of the European Prosecutors and whether any adjustments are necessary to further strengthen the selection procedures. 1 Council Regulation (EU) 2017/1939 of 12 October 2017 implementing enhanced cooperation on the establishment of the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (‘the EPPO’), OJ L 283, 31.10.2017, pp. 1–71.”
  EU law enforcement cooperation in criminal matters · Rule of law and democracy in the EU (political compass)
• 2026-01-14 “E-000153/2026 Answer given by Executive Vice-President Virkkunen on behalf of the European Commission The Commission monitors and reports on market trends affecting the competitiveness of the audiovisual sector. The latest findings were published in the European Media Industry Outlook 2025 1 , including specifically on concentration. Under EU merger rules 2 , the Commission takes into account market concentration when assessing specific mergers. Pursuant to the Creative Europe regulation 3 , actions under the MEDIA strand aim to foster a level playing field among Member States. For example, a dedicated action 4 for independent production companies in countries with a low audiovisual capacity contributes to fostering their competitiveness and cultural relevance. The Commission recently reported to the European Parliament 5 on the evaluation of Creative Europe, which shows significant progress in improving the level playing field (collaborations between low and high-capacity countries increased to around 30% under the current programme, from less than 5% under the previous one). At the same time, it points to the need to further broaden the participation in MEDIA. Horizon Europe also funds projects addressing the competitiveness of the film industry in smaller EU markets 6 . Looking ahead, the Commission’s proposal for AgoraEU aims to strengthen collaborations among entities from Member States with different audiovisual capacities 7 . It should however be noted that MEDIA funding accounts for less than 1% of total national funding to the audiovisual sector in the EU. EU State aid rules 8 make national funding to the audiovisual sector possible while preventing undue distortion to competition, thus helping to ensure competitiveness and balanced development across Member States, in line with both cultural policy and internal market rules. 1 European Media Industry Outlook, SWD(2025)261, 5.9.2025. 2 Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 of 20 January 2004 on the control of concentrations between undertakings (the ‘Merger Regulation’) (OJ L 24, 29.1.2004, p. 1). 3 See Article 3 of Regulation (EU) 2021/818 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 May 2021 establishing the Creative Europe Programme (2021 to 2027). 4 This is an annual call entitled ‘European Mini Slate Development’. 5 Report from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions a Decade of Creative Europe, COM/2025/768, 17.12.2025. 6 See the ‘CresCine’ project in particular and also the ‘REBOOT’ project - Eastern European partners are an integral part of both projects’ consortia. 7 Proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing the 'AgoraEU' programme for the period 2028-2034, COM(2025) 550,16.7.2025. 8 See in particular the Communication from the Commission on State aid for films and other audiovisual works (2013/C 332/01; 15.11.2013) and the relevant provisions of the General Block Exemption Regulation.”
  EU and national cultural identities
• 2025-11-28 “E-004716/2025 Answer given by Mr Dombrovskis on behalf of the European Commission In line with the Merger Regulation 1 , the Commission assesses the impact that a notified transaction has on effective competition. In the final decision adopted on 13 February 2026, the Commission concluded that the Universal Music Group (UMG) may gain access to commercially sensitive data on Downtown’s software Curve and the remedies submitted by UMG fully address these concerns. Based on evidence and feedback collected from many stakeholders during its investigation, the Commission concluded that the transaction does not raise other competition concerns. In particular, the investigation confirmed the existence of various competitors, including Sony, Warner, Believe and other independents. The press release is available on the Commission’s website 2 . On 12 November 2025, the Commission adopted a Communication on a new Culture Compass for Europe (COM(2025) 785 final) that sets out a strategic vision and recognizes the need to address the pressing challenges facing the cultural and creative sectors. Among the key priorities, it aims at empowering artists and cultural professionals and leveraging Europe’s culture and cultural heritage to enhance competitiveness, resilience and social cohesion. The Compass also identifies concrete flagship actions supporting cultural and creative professionals, such as developing an EU Artist Charter and an AI strategy for the cultural and creative sectors. The Commission has also invited the European Parliament and the Council to consider agreeing and co-signing a Joint Declaration (COM(2025) 786 final) that aims to strengthen the political commitment to support Europe’s cultural and creative sectors and industries, as an integral part of the EU’s identity and development. 1 Council Regulation (EC) No 139/2004 of 20 January 2004 on the control of concentrations between undertakings, OJ L 24, 29.1.2004, pp. 1–22. 2 https://competition-cases.ec.europa.eu/cases/M.11956.”
  EU and national cultural identities
• 2025-10-10 “P-003989/2025 Answer given by Executive Vice-President Virkkunen on behalf of the European Commission The Commission is constantly monitoring developments related to very large online platforms (VLOPs) compliance with the Digital Services Act (DSA). In this context, the Commission is aware of the case related to the Facebook page ‘Justice for Everyone’. The Commission would like to highlight that it has no direct competence to intervene in individual content moderation decisions, including the termination of Facebook pages. However, the Commission would like to point out that, based on an in-depth investigation, it preliminarily found on 24 October 2025 that Meta, for both services Facebook and Instagram, breached its obligation under the DSA to allow users to effectively challenge content moderation decisions, for instance related to a suspension of accounts. 1 The mechanism of Facebook and Instagram does not appear to allow users to provide explanations or supporting evidence to substantiate their appeals. As regards competent national authorities’ role under the DSA, that Regulation requires that these authorities perform their tasks with complete independence, impartially and transparently. Additionally, the Commission and the Digital Services Coordinators constantly exchange within the European Board for Digital Services to ensure a coordinated and consistent application of the DSA. Under the DSA, providers of VLOPs must assess systemic risks concerning the actual or foreseeable negative effects of their services on civic discourse and put in place effective mitigation measures. The Commission is constantly in regulatory dialogue with such providers to ensure compliance with the DSA and takes enforcement actions when necessary. 1 European Commission, press release IP/25/2503, 8 October 2025: https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_25_2503.”
  Digital platforms liability for harmful and illegal content · Disinformation & online freedoms
• 2025-07-08 “E-002775/2025 Answer given by Mr McGrath on behalf of the European Commission The Commission closely follows the implementation of the anti-corruption reforms that are covered by the Rule of Law Report and the Bulgarian Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP). In particular, under the Bulgarian RRP, Bulgaria committed to the establishment of a politically and financially independent anti-corruption body, as well as its operationalisation. Furthermore, in the context of the European Semester, a recommendation has been addressed to Bulgaria to improve the effectiveness of anti-corruption measures, particularly in high-level corruption cases. In agreement with the Commission, on 17 April 2025 the Bulgarian authorities withdrew the second payment request under the RRP. On 23 July 2025, the Bulgarian authorities resubmitted the second payment request, following the Council’s approval of the RRP’s amendment on 18 July 2025. The payment request also includes a milestone related to the setup of a politically and financially independent anti-corruption body. The Commission’s assessment of the fulfilment of the milestone against its requirements is ongoing.”
  EU Supervision of the Rule of Law · Rule of law and democracy in the EU (political compass)
• 2025-04-24 “E-001670/2025 Answer given by Executive Vice-President Fitto on behalf of the European Commission The Interreg V-A Greece–Bulgaria Programme (2014–2020) is implemented in shared management and it is therefore the managing authority who is responsible for overseeing project implementation. The Commission works closely with the Managing Authority to monitor Interreg V-A programmes at all stages: reviewing project selection criteria, assessing progress data, participating in Monitoring Committees, and, when needed, holding high level annual review meetings. These mechanisms, as set out in the regulatory framework, ensure balanced and timely project implementation by all partners and enable corrective actions where necessary. Managing authorities can also subject projects to enhanced monitoring measures. This is the the case for the Aiming at Improving Cross-Border Accessibility (CrossBo) project and measures to operationalise the new crossing point have been initiated. In the context of the 2014-2020 programming period and in line with the closure guidelines 1 , the deadline for submitting programme closure documents has been extended to 15 February 2026. If expenditure for non-functioning operations is included in the accounts for the final accounting year, Member States undertake to physically complete or fully implement all such non-functioning operations and ensure they contribute to the objectives of the relevant priorities not later than 15 February 2027. If any non-functioning operations remain incomplete by 15 February 2027, all associated financing will be considered ineligible. 1 Commission notice: Guidelines on the closure of operational programmes adopted for assistance from the European Regional Development Fund, the European Social Fund, the Cohesion Fund, and the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund for the 2014–2020 programming period (European Commission, 14 October 2024).”
  Cohesion and rural funding
• “Dear madam president dear mister commissioner dear colleagues we have reports we have data we have policy objectives we have recommendations the task is clear and the fragmentation unite our market. We cannot call our market single if internal barriers still divide us people don't have equal access to products across all countries we still see the old quality and unfair pricing that depend on the borders between member states yet we have pledged to break down the borders so let's make it real. Completing the single market is the smartest move to make and the best policy for Europe no new bureaucracy just effectively enforce the rules we already have fix what is not working and remove the obstacles that that raise the prices for our consumers and hold back our businesses. This is the only way for Europe to prosper and compete globally we have already achieved so much let's finish the work and deliver on our promise of a true single market thank you.”
  EU Single Market harmonisation
• “Thank you very much, Madam Chair. First of all, I would like to thank the rapporteur and his team for the draft report that was presented. It's really an excellent basis to work on. I would like to commend again the draft, the draft report for including all key features of the European sport model, specifically mentioning them with the aim, of course, to strengthen them, first of all, the pyramid structure and the financial solidarity that is essential to preserve the European sport model and to make it even more stronger. Secondly, the open competition, the promotion and relegation principle which is extremely important, especially today when we can when we see other elitist breakaway competition formats, trying to trying to form that is something that is purely against the principles of the European sport model and, uh, something that needs to be addressed. Uh, also the, the voluntary work is the key feature, the decline in volunteers that are associated with the sport, whereas they play a crucial role. So this is also a very important topic. And also the autonomy and good governance which are as well essential. There are a couple of other, uh, topics that, uh, could be strengthened and uh, also mentioned on the online piracy. Piracy is mentioned in the report. I saw that, but maybe we can strengthen it further by virtue of the amendments. Also the secondary market for tickets for live events.”
  Broadcasting of sports events
• “Thank you very much, chair. Thank you very much to the presidency as well. So given the role in facilitating the internal market framework, that is crucial for defence Defense cooperation. I'm glad to see that concluding negotiations on the European Defence Industry programme is also a priority. What is the expected timeline for concluding the agreement on EDP? And additionally, what other defence initiatives does the presidency plan to advance to foster closer integration and cooperation among member states defence industries, while balancing strategic autonomy with open market principles to ensure fair competition, transparent procurement and strong SME participation across the entire EU. Thank you very much.”
  EU competences on defence
• “Thank you very much, Madam Vice President. Dear Mr. Commissioner, dear colleagues, I have just one question. Why should Russia be rewarded? It continues to kill civilians. It continues to destroy Ukraine's cultural heritage and sports infrastructure. Hundreds of Ukrainian athletes and coaches have lost their lives, and hundreds of sports facilities lie in ruins. Normalizing relations with Russia means legitimizing its actions, legitimizing the terror inflicted on millions of innocent people. There is nothing normal in the lives of athletes, artists and civilians in Kiev, Kharkov, Odessa and in countless other towns and villages across Ukraine, where daily life is defined not by culture or sport, but by, but by sirens, death and destruction. By excluding Russia, we deny Kremlin a powerful propaganda platform and uphold the rules based international order. It is as simple as that. If we allow Russia to return, we send a dangerous message that aggression can be forgotten, that accountability can wait. No reward for aggressors, no concessions to violence. As long as this war continues, there can be no business as usual. Thank you.”
  EU-Russia relations (from March 2022)
• “(15:45:08 – 15:46:33): Thank you very much, chair. I have two questions, one to the representatives of the commission and one to the representatives of Amazon. So the DSA places obligations on online marketplaces to trace their traders, the so called know your business customer principle, to enhance transparency and reduce the risk of unsafe and counterfeit products being offered by third party sellers. This means that Amazon and other platforms must collect and verify the identities of the third party business sellers. Nonetheless, a lot of dangerous or fake goods are still present and being offered for sale. My question to the representatives of the commission is whether the commission has found any specific flaws in the way platforms like Amazon are implementing their trader traceability obligations under the DSA. And I would also like to ask the Amazon representatives if they could provide more information on the current level of verification needed before a seller may enter a new marketplace, especially for merchants operating from outside the union, and whether Amazon keeps an eye on compliance after onboarding? And if so, can you clarify whether this is based on random checks or on a more systematic monitoring mechanisms? Thank you very much.”
  Liability for online marketplaces
• “Thank you very much, Mr. Echevarria. And then we proceed to the reporting from the working group on the forced labor regulation, where Miss Grapini, our vice chair, is the co-chair for the Joint Forced Labor Regulation Working Group, together with her colleague Raphael Glucksmann. The the first meeting of the working Group group took place on the 3rd of December, 2025. The Commission Services, DG grow and DG trade gave gave a short overview of the regulation that is expected to enter into application on the 14th of December, 2027. And this was followed by the state of play of implementation foreseen for 2026, namely on the Implementing Acts being prepared for information exchange on guidelines, risk database and international cooperation. Members raised questions about ongoing preparations for the implementation. Stakeholder expert group on forced labour linked with the customs reform cooperation with third countries. Okay. Thank you. So on this, uh, item, our chair, Anna Cavazzini, was due to report. So I'll do this on her behalf. Um, this was the first meeting, as I mentioned. Uh, the chair's already mentioned were Mr. Glucksmann and Miss Grapini. Again, the commission outlined the reasons for the forced labour ban, mainly the 27 .4. 6 million people globally that are subjected to forced labour. The exact timeline of the regulation that was presented includes 13th of December 2020 for entry into force. 14th of December 2025. Appointment of the national competent authorities. 16th of June 2026 publication of database and guidelines.”
  EU policy on labour exploitation in global supply chains
• “Thank you chair. Dear colleagues. The impact of social media on young people is one of the most pressing issues we face today, and it requires urgent, coordinated action. We see the consequences every single day. I have tabled several amendments with concrete, implementation focused proposals putting children's best interests at the centre. We already we already have a strong legislative framework, so our focus must now be on its effective implementation and enforcement, including sanctions for non-compliance. The Commission's guidelines under article 28 of the DSA introduce many valuable actions and tools, and we should actively encourage their application. Any new measures must be risk and data based targeting algorithms and addictive design features, while avoiding unintended consequences such as driving young people towards unregulated online spaces. Dangerous viral challenges. Manipulative design practices. Gambling like features in video games. These are all dangerous, often life threatening practices that our children face online. We urgently need stronger safeguards, including a rapid EU alert mechanism to detect harmful trends early and respond swiftly. I'm against blanket bans on social media. That is not the right approach. We must instead hold platforms accountable and require them to tackle the harmful algorithms that lead children down the rabbit holes of the internet. Today, a child can simply click on yes, I'm over 18 with no safeguards at all. We also need better parental control tools with protective default settings that are easy to use and genuinely effective. Finally, my amendments address the need for clearer rules and transparency in influencer marketing, targeting minors, and for digital education to help young people understand the risks linked to in-app purchases, virtual currencies, and data sharing. Overall, my proposals aim to ensure that our framework is practical, coherent and truly protective of children online. I look forward to working constructively with the rapporteur and colleagues to advance this important work. Thank you very much.”
  Safety features & content control for child protection online
• “Since Russia's invasion in Ukraine, Europe's security landscape has changed dramatically. And as recent developments in the Middle East remind us, the global security environment is changing every day. In this increasingly complex geopolitical context, Europe must accelerate defense cooperation and invest more in our collective security. Flagship projects of common European interest are a crucial step in that direction. They can help us build a genuine European single market for defence, one that strengthens our technological edge, boosts innovation and empowers our companies by pooling resources and coordinating our efforts. We can reduce fragmentation, avoid duplication, and deliver capabilities faster and at a lower cost. But ambition alone is not enough. This project must. Projects must move from paper to reality quickly and effectively. And they must be guided by real, forward looking capability needs. Defense investments should reinforce our strategic priorities, but it must also match the scale of the threats we face. Only by acting together with ambition and unity, we can guarantee Europe's security and strategic sovereignty in the years to come. Thank you.”
  EU competences on defence
• “Thank you very much, chair. Dear Mr. Commissioner, so my question, first of all, I hope that your first, uh, first visit to Bulgaria went smoothly. And secondly, my question to you is the new Agora? Eu is seen as a progressive and dynamic program that unites efforts in the fields of media, culture and values under one cohesive framework. If implemented properly, this project has the potential to enhance cultural and linguistic diversity along with protection of artistic freedom and promotion of civic civic engagement. What step or steps will the Commission take to preserve the achievements of current programmes such as Creative Europe, Media Plus Serv Plus, while ensuring coherence and avoiding duplication within the new Agora EU framework. Thank you very much.”
  EU and national cultural identities
• “Thank you very much, Mr. President and Mr. Commissioner. Dear colleagues. Sport is built on the rules of fair play. Online piracy breaks that rule even before kick off. When a live event is stolen in real time, its economic value is destroyed instantly. No replay, no compensation, no second chance. Yet today, pirates are faster than the law. The digital market moves fast, while enforcement still takes hours or days if it happens at all. In May 2023, the European Commission published a recommendation on combating online piracy of sports and other live events, but the improvements following this are not enough. In order to ensure that investment flows back into Europe's sport or other live content ecosystem, and not into criminal networks. We need targeted legislation to establish a more effective notice and action mechanism, dynamic and swift blocking of illegal streaming of live content. We believe in fair play on the pitch, and we must enforce fair play online as well. If we fail to act decisively, we reward illegal actors and penalise those who play by the rules. Thank you very much.”
  Broadcasting of sports events
• “Thank you very much, chair. First of all, I welcome the Commission's proposal, which supports the union's priorities in digitalisation and a better functioning single market. The goal of this proposal is clear and simple to make vehicle registration faster, easier and more transparent for our citizens while helping to combat fraud and the illegal trade in stolen vehicles. This will be allowed by harmonised data in the smoother exchange of information between the Member States. This digital solution is another step towards reducing administrative burdens, cutting costs for consumers and businesses and enabling people to move freely across member states without unnecessary bureaucracy. I believe we can and should be more ambitious on the timeline for rolling out mobile registration, for rolling out the physical registration certificates, while ensuring a fully interoperable and secure EU wide system that truly delivers on the promise of a digital single market. Importantly, the system should also provide for the easy correction of inaccurate data and ensure compliance with EU data Protection framework. Our table amendments strengthening the proposal in this regard. Ensuring that digital vehicle registration becomes a practical reality that benefits citizens strengthened, strengthens consumer protection and builds trust in our single market. Thank you very much.”
  Driving licences
• “Thank you very much, Madam Chair. Thank you to the rapporteur as well, and to the shadows and all teams for the constructive work on the compromises. I believe the text is overall both balanced and ambitious, and rightly focuses on measures that empower users, support parents and reinforce the responsibilities of platforms in line with the DSA, addresses the core challenges and reiterates the need for safe and reliable assurance systems. Calls that I consider essential and welcome. But what I cannot support is the call to introduce the age limit for access to social media platforms, and especially the for the range between 13 and 16 years, where access can be held only with parental consent. First of all, I think that blanket bans may sound like an easy fix, but they do not make the online world safer. They, and especially this wording with the parental consent, shifts the responsibility onto the parents, let platforms off the hook and risk pushing children into unregulated spaces while discouraging them from reporting negative experiences for fear of getting into trouble. Such bans do not remove harmful content and do not address addictive designs, and can be easily bypassed. Our approach must remain risk based, evidence driven and targeting the root causes of the problem. While I cannot support this particular call, I remain committed to constructive work on the many areas where we are aligned because we share the same goal ensuring a safer online environment for young people. And I look forward to continuing our cooperation with colleagues as we finalize this opinion. Thank you.”
  Safety features & content control for child protection online
• “Thank you very much. And one last intervention before we move on to the responses by the Commission. It will be from me. So public procurement is one of the key tools to ensure that public money is spent in an efficient manner and in the public interest, with the rules that should prevent corruption and anti-competitive practices. Yet, the Commission's evaluation notes that the risk of corruption is perceived as continuing on an upward trend, which is also a concern shared by businesses as a key factor, the Commission points to missing data and information. How does the Commission intend to tackle this in the upcoming revision? In particular, how will it improve data collection? How will you improve data collection, transparency and oversight mechanisms to better detect and prevent corruption without adding unnecessary administrative burden for contracting authorities and for SMEs? Regarding SME participation in public procurement following the 2014 reform, there seems to be a discrepancy between the findings of the European Court of Auditors, which concluded there has been no significant improvement in SMEs access to procurement procedures and the accurate data referenced in the Commission's evaluation, which claimed the opposite. How does the Commission explain this divergence in findings? And looking ahead, what can be identified as key remaining obstacles for SMEs and how this can be addressed in the upcoming revision? And last Asked about the Made in Europe aspect which was already mentioned, including in your initial presentation introducing the Made in Europe criteria for certain strategic sectors in the upcoming revision. While this could be an opportunity to promote innovation and strengthen resilience in key value chain, such approach also carries a risk of market fragmentation and protectionism. What safeguards will the Commission introduce to ensure that this approach does not undermine the level playing field and open competition within the single market, and that remain fully consistent with international procurement obligations that were also mentioned. Thank you very much. And I give the floor now to the Commission representatives for responses to the interventions by the MEPs.”
  "Buy European" provisions
• “Thank you very much, chair. I'm speaking on behalf of our shadow, Morten Lokkegaard from so, dear chair, dear colleagues, from a new Europe perspective, the European Competitiveness Fund will only succeed if it actually changes how companies experience Europe. Today, access to EU funding is too slow, too complex and too fragmented for startups and SMEs. The main barrier is not ambition, it's administration. Our amendments therefore focus on one core objective turning the ECF into a fast, digital and business ready instrument. First implementation of the once only principle. Companies should never be asked to submit the same information twice. The fund must actively use existing data from national registries and EU systems. If Europe already has the data, businesses should not carry the administrative burden. Secondly, speed must become a legal reality, not a political slogan. For high impact programmes, especially for startups and SMEs, funding decisions must happen within clear and binding deadlines. In global tech competition. Timing is decisive. Third, we need a genuinely digital access model. Integration with the European digital identity and the future business wallet can transform how companies interact with EU funding, from static portals to seamless, secure and reusable interfaces. Fourth, access must be designed around users. A dedicated startup gateway would give young companies a single entry point to funding advisory services and investors, instead of forcing them to navigate institutional complexity. Here also comes the design of the 28th regime. Taken together, these changes are not technical tweaks. They are about credibility. If the ECF is to strengthen European competitiveness, it must be faster than our bureaucracy, simpler than our current programs and designed for companies, not administrations. Thank you.”
  Conditions to access EU budget
• “Thank you very much. Chair. So. So consumer boycotts earlier this year in Bulgaria and other EU countries reflect growing frustration over rising prices of food and basic goods. These price hikes, coupled with persistent persistent price disparities within the single market, ultimately limit consumer choice, and we can trust in market fairness. Territorial supply constraints, which were already discussed, are one of the drivers behind these disparities, creating barriers that prevent equal access to affordable goods across the EU. My question would be to the Commission representative. Could you please outline what concrete enforcement measures and initiatives are planned to address these constraints and reduce price disparities across the single markets? Thank you very much.”
  EU Single Market harmonisation
• “Thank you very much, Mr. Chair. I would like to address my question to Mr. Harlan. Uh, as a preliminary remark, I would like to say that, according to my understanding, a significant distinction between editorial media and social media is that in editorial media behind the information stands its verification, the reputation of the media, the code of conduct of the media. On the other hand, in social media, we often have just anonymized information being spread. You mentioned that in Sweden and Norway, there are more people who are willing to pay for quality content. Um, my question to you is, do you see any particular tool or or measures that could serve as a replacement where there is less willingness to pay for quality content? Or should we instead focus on creating the understanding that quality product doesn't come for free? Thank you very much.”
  EU support for traditional (non-digital) media
• “Thank you very much, chair. Dear colleagues, the Commission's proposal on vehicle registration documents aligns with our broader efforts to modernize public administration. Advanced digitalization and improve the functioning of the single market. Its objective is straightforward to make vehicle registration quicker, simpler, and more transparent for citizens, while strengthening our ability to tackle fraud and the circulation of stolen vehicles. Harmonized data structures and smoother cross-border information flows are essential to achieving this. A digital registration system is also a concrete way to reduce administrative burdens, lower costs for consumers, consumers and businesses, and ensure that mobility across member states is not hindered by outdated or fragmented procedures. I believe we can aim higher when it comes to the timeline for deploying the mobile registration certificates. At the same time, it's crucial that the system is fully interoperable, secure and compliant with EU data protection rules and that it allows for the swift correction of inaccurate or incomplete data. Thanks to this proposal, digital vehicle registration can become a practical, user friendly reality that delivers tangible benefits for citizens, enhances consumer protection, and strengthens confidence in the single market. I look forward to constructive cooperation with colleagues to deliver a balanced and meaningful input for the committee. Thank you very much.”
  Driving licences
• “Dear Mr. President, Vice president, dear colleagues, the Commission's decision to find Google for abusing its dominance on the ad tech market sends a clear message the EU will not tolerate gatekeepers who distort competition and undermine media freedom in the Union. But let's be honest, a final loan does not solve the problem. Google can pay it and move on. Google needs to make changes because of its practices remain. There is no level playing field and no equal terms for all. And that puts media freedom at risk. If we truly care about democracy, we cannot settle for this victory. Only we need real change. Proper remedies that break monopolies, open the digital space and ensure fair competition. Only then can independent media survive and thrive. Citizens have the right to choose, and they must have access to diverse and reliable information. A healthy democracy cannot function without free and independent journalism that can investigate, inform and hold power to account. Fair markets and free media are the pillars of our democracy, and it's our duty to defend them.”
  EU rules on digital competition
• “Thank you very much, Mr. Chair. Uh, so trafficking in hazardous waste is an increasing and dynamic issue, as there is a constant race between smugglers on the one side and. Smugglers on the one side and enforcement authorities on the other side as to who will gain the upper hand, of course. And we have to acknowledge that organized crime can, of course, throw vast resources into this battle. In this regard, I would like to ask firstly, whether you have identified any particular gaps or inefficiencies in the legal framework across Member states and whether you have identified gaps or inefficiencies in the operational, administrative and technical capacity of the enforcement bodies, both, both at EU and national level. Lastly, last are the Environmental Crime Directive entered into force a year ago. And in this respect, I would like to ask whether the entry into force of the of the directive improved the fight against those type of types of crimes, or whether it's a bit too early to assess this. Thank you very much.”
  Environmental crimes and justice
• “Dear madam president, Mr. Commissioner, dear colleagues, the single market is one of the EU's greatest strengths, delivering significant benefits to both citizens and businesses. Yet, despite its vast potential, we are failing to truly seize its true advantage. This week, I had a meeting with a group of Bulgarian students here at the European Parliament. When I gave them an example of the price and quality differences for products between Sofia and Brussels caused by territorial supply constraints, they visibly jumped in surprise. They asked, but how come? Isn't this against the rules of the single market? Isn't it competition that should determine prices? This is precisely the issue that we must address. Citizens confidence in the single market is essential. Persistent issues such as territorial supply, supply constraints, unfair pricing, and unequal access to goods are more than mere inconveniences. These are market failures that cost us billions of euros every year. Swift and decisive actions are needed to ensure that the single market fulfils its promise of fairness, efficiency and resilience for every corner of Europe. Thank you very much.”
  EU Single Market harmonisation
• “(14:49:07 – 14:51:03): Thank you very much, Chair. And thank you, Mister Executive Vice President, for being here. I have 2 questions and remarks. My first question will be on the removal of the so-called terrible 10 barriers in the single market. I welcome your statement that the Commission is fully mobilized on this. During the last plenary, you stated that around 70% of the necessary legislative changes depend on implementation by national authorities. How does the Commission intend to ensure that member states effectively remove unnecessary national barriers to the proper functioning of the single market? The Commission is engaging in dialogue, but this alone does not seem sufficient. So how can we encourage member states to do their part and unlock the full potential of the single market?”
  EU Single Market harmonisation
• “Thank you very much Chair and I would also like to thank the representatives of the Commission for the nice presentation and also for the guidelines. I'm happy to see that the guidelines include many good measures that could significantly enhance the protection of minors' safety online if properly implemented by all relevant actors. This is crucial for the effective protection of our children and for the success of the DSA. But as the guidelines are voluntary and do lack clear accountability, how does the Commission intend to ensure compliance and consistent protection of minors without market fragmentation given the absence of a binding uniform approach? Secondly, how can we ensure that smaller platforms are able to implement adequate safety and privacy measures for minors without facing disproportionate burdens? Thank you very much. **Anna Cavazzini @Chair (Germany, Greens/EFA): Thank you very much. Now I have Laura Bayadim. **Laura Ballarín Cereza (Spain, S&D): Thank you so much Chair and of course thank you Mr. Auerwald for the explanations and for being here to explain the guidelines. Of course, I'm very happy with the publication of these guidelines on protection of minors and we understand that this is only one part of a more broadened approach that the Commission is tackling with the question of the protection of minors online. It is clear that we have Article 28 in the DSA and that is the legal basis that we have now to ensure that this protection of minors online. We hear often the Commission of the idea that we need first to implement the DSA and after that it will come other legislation. Basically, we would like to give you all the strength to finalize the open procedures that we have, that you have for a long time against some big tech. We know and you said that you will finalize it soon. We really hope it's soon because it's been more than one year. Taking into account the geopolitical context, we are very worried with the threats that we receive from several parts of the world and now the enforcement of our digital laws is at stake. So the publication of the guidelines is a very good sign but we need to enforce, to need or close the open procedures. One final question in the line of my colleague Krista: do you think that a minimum digital age could be envisaged, maybe not one early age but maybe through a range depending on the country? We understand that there are different cultures but I think that we cannot envisage effective age assurance, age estimation, or age verification tools without a minimum digital age. Good work and you will have this Parliament to support you. Thank you. **Anna Cavazzini @Chair (Germany, Greens/EFA): Thank you very much. Now Kim from Sparanthak. **Kim Van Sparrentak (Netherlands, Greens/EFA): Thank you very much and thank you for the explanation. I asked some questions in my previous intervention and I will ask them again to see if we can get a bit more clear answers because one of the things I noticed in your guidelines, which I think are really great, thank you so much for all the work on that. If you look at the privacy and safety by design approach, that's really great. However, when I look at the risk-based approach on how you should deal with age verification or age assurance, there's a clear discrepancy or clear difference between different platforms. When you look at social media platforms, the Commission is going for age assurance or age estimation. A few questions related to that: what do you think is the most safe age assurance method there is? Do you have any good examples of very safe and privacy-friendly age estimation methods? Why did you choose to have less safe age assurance methods for social media than, for example, for adult content? Would it be feasible to require that verification by the digital wallet is always an option and perhaps the preferred option if this is the direction we're going? How many Member States are ready to use these kinds of safe age verification methods? Also, is the Commission taking into account perhaps an evaluation of a digital majority age? My biggest worry is that it will create a waterbed effect that we say, oh kids are not allowed on this anymore, so now the platforms get even worse. Is that one of the things you're taking into consideration, really making sure we monitor whether it doesn't become an even worse place because we are assuming that kids are not on the platforms anymore? Thank you. **Anna Cavazzini @Chair (Germany, Greens/EFA)): Great, this exhausts the list of MEPs so Prabhat I would like you to answer.”
  Safety features & content control for child protection online
• “Thank you very much, Mr. Benifet. This was the reporting back to our committee on the Implementation and Enforcement of the AI act. And with that, we proceed to the next reporting, which is on the establishing the Union Customs Code and the European Union Customs Authority, and repealing repealing regulation number 955 of 2013. The rapporteur for this report is Mr. Dirk Götting. The rapporteur will report back from the fourth trialogue, the last under the Danish presidency. It was held on 10th of December last year. Please, Mr. Götting, you have five minutes. Thank you very much.”
  EU policy on custom fee on non-EU imports
• “Thank you chair. First of all, thanks to the rapporteur for the draft opinion, which gives us a good basis to work on. Definitely. Colleagues since 2022, when Russia launched its unjustified and brutal invasion of sovereign Ukraine, Europe's security landscape has changed dramatically. This has been a wake up call for member states to start addressing years of underinvestment in in defence. Yet this effort is still not enough. We must further accelerate and increase our investment to ensure that we can protect our citizens, our sovereignty and our territorial integrity. Defence projects of common interest are a key pillar for building a true European single market for defence. This has the potential to drive growth, boost innovation and strengthen the industrial competitiveness of our companies, especially the SMEs. By working together and pooling resources, we can reduce costs, eliminate duplication and achieve real economies of scale. It's crucial that flagship projects are implemented swiftly and effectively based on coordination between Commission, the Commission, the European Defence Agency and the Member States. These initiatives will strengthen Europe's security and ensure that our defence planning is based on practical and forward looking capability needs. Finally, we must ensure that adequate funding is secured under the next MFF. Defence funding should complement, not compete with other strategic EU priorities, but it must be substantial enough to match the scale of the challenges we face. Only by acting together with ambition and unity, we can we guarantee Europe's security and strategic sovereignty in the years to come. Our table several amendments reinforcing this position, and I look forward to constructive cooperation with colleagues on this important file. Thank you very much.”
  Defence spending
• “Since Russia's invasion in Ukraine, Europe's security security landscape has changed dramatically. And as recent developments in the Middle East remind us, the global security environment is changing every day. In this increasingly complex geopolitical context, Europe must accelerate defense cooperation and invest more in our collective security. Flagship projects of common European interest are a crucial step in that direction. They can help us build a genuine European single market for defence, one that strengthens our technological edge, boosts innovation and empowers our companies by pooling resources and coordinating our efforts. We can reduce fragmentation, avoid duplication, and deliver capabilities faster and at a lower cost. But ambition alone is not enough. This project projects must move from paper to reality quickly and effectively. And they must be guided by real forward looking capability needs. Defense investment should reinforce our strategic priorities, but it must also match the scale of the threats we face. Only by acting together with ambition and unity, we can guarantee Europe's security and strategic sovereignty in the years to come. Thank you.”
  EU competences on defence
• “Secondly, I believe that simplifying access to funding, particularly particularly to SMEs, is crucial. We need to enhance competition, drive innovation and prevent market concentration. And in this regard, there is a need to simplify bureaucratic procedures and to avoid duplications, inefficiencies and unnecessary differences. Also, a regular dialogue with industry stakeholders is thereby crucial to foster joint planning and procurement. Regarding the cost of components originating from within the union or associated countries, I have tabled an amendment also with again with colleagues of mine from of mine from renew the number that the bar that we have set is that 65% of the estimated value of the end product should be should originate from within the union and see that there's a difference between the groups between the countries in this respect. So we have to find a compromise, of course. That being said, it's clear that no component components should originate from non-associated third, countries that contravene the security and defence interests of the Union. And last but not least, I support my colleagues that have already addressed the question of budget. Um, it's definitely crucial to increase the budget, given the growing global tensions and ongoing Russian aggression. Aggression against Ukraine. The EU must allocate a much larger budget to EDP. Thank you very much.”
  Defence spending
• “Thank you very much, Chair, and thank you, dear Executive Vice President, for the presentation. So the proposal is ambitious and has strong potential. It must remain consistent with the principles of free trade and avoid protectionism, but at the same time, achieve its objectives of boosting the competitiveness of European industry. In this context, I would like to ask a question on the EU origin requirement for vehicles. The proposal sets a minimum threshold of 70% of EU origin excluding the battery. At the same time, Article 8 provides that content originating in third countries with which the EU has a free trade agreement is to be considered as EU origin. This raises concerns about the overall coherence of the approach. In practice, this could result in a vehicle being labeled as EU origin even where a significant share of it or in extreme cases, the entirety of its chain is produced outside the EU. This might risk weakening the clarity and the credibility of the origin label and may undermine confidence in what EU origin actually means. And I'm sure this is not our intention. Given this is also linked to eligibility for incentives and ultimately the use of public money, could you clarify what safeguards are in place to preserve the integrity of the origin requirement? And do you consider these safeguards sufficient to avoid unintended dilution of the policy intent? Thank you very much.”
  Vehicle content rules: mandatory EU components vs. open global sourcing for carmakers
• “I will speak Bulgarian. Madam president. Commissioner. Colleagues. Yes. Action is needed against the growing problem of addictive behavior patterns. But this action should be well thought out and targeted. The proposed ban on the use of social networks by children aged 13 to 16 without parental permission is not a measure of this kind. What are we going to do? A copy of the child's birth certificate, or a copy of the parent's identity card? And at the same time, what are we achieving? A 15 year old child took her own life in France four years ago because of the content she was exposed to, according to paragraph 28 of this report. Responsibility falls solely on the parents because until the age of 16 and for the 13 to 16 years of age range, the responsibility lies with the parents who have allowed earlier access. The role of parents is undoubtedly very important, but blanket banks have never had a positive effect. Let us fight harmful and dangerous content and manipulative algorithms.”
  Safety features & content control for child protection online
• “Thank you very Much, Madam Chair. I also have a question regarding the territorial supply constraints. Maybe it's not surprising because I come from the same region as Miss Borden. Uh, so the strategy introduces a new method for the single market, structured around several pillars, including more protection. Acting is a shield from unfair to trade practices. This could include so-called dual quality, where the same branded products are sold in certain member states with different compositions. So my question would be how does the Commission assess the situation? Since the amendment of article six of the Unfair Commercial Practices Directive came into force, particularly in countries like Bulgaria. Has it led to measurable enforcement or market correction? And moreover, how does the Commission intend to prevent these practices from from perpetuating unequal access to quality across the single market? Thank you very much.”
  EU restrictions on unfair commercial practices
• “Thank you very much, chair. I'm speaking on behalf of our shadow, Morten Lokkegaard from so, dear chair, dear colleagues, from a new Europe perspective, the European Competitiveness Fund will only succeed if it actually changes how companies experience Europe. Today, access to EU funding is too slow, too complex and too fragmented for startups and SMEs. The main barrier is not ambition, it's administration. Our amendments therefore focus on one core objective turning the ECF into a fast, digital and business ready instrument. First implementation of the once only principle. Companies should never be asked to submit the same information twice. The fund must actively use existing data from national registries and EU systems. If Europe already has the data, businesses should not carry the administrative burden. Secondly, speed must become a legal reality, not a political slogan. For high impact programmes, especially for startups and SMEs, funding decisions must happen within clear and binding deadlines. In global tech competition. Timing is decisive. Third, we need a genuinely digital access model. Integration with the European digital identity and the future business wallet can transform how companies interact with EU funding, from static portals to seamless, secure and reusable interfaces. Fourth, access must be designed around users. A dedicated startup gateway would give young companies a single entry point to funding advisory services and investors, instead of forcing them to navigate institutional complexity. Here also comes the design of the 28th regime. Taken together, these changes are not technical tweaks. They are about credibility. If the ECF is to strengthen European competitiveness, it must be faster than our bureaucracy, simpler than our current programs and designed for companies, not administrations. Thank you.”
  Overall simplification of regulation in the EU
• “Thank you very much, chair. So according to a study by the centre for Countering Digital Hate Group generated around 3 million sexualised images, including 23,000 involving children over an 11 day period in the end of last year and the beginning of this year. As of 15th of January, 29% of these sexualised images of children were still publicly accessible on X. Even where posts were removed, images remained accessible through separate links. These are deeply alarming findings, despite the fact that under the DSA, the Commission could have immediately opened formal proceedings against Brock for systematic failures to mitigate risks and protect minors, including the temporary suspension for Brock until the investigation is ongoing. It chose not to do so up until this morning, when it finally announced the opening of the proceedings. Given the scale and gravity of the harm at stake, especially when children are affected, this delay raises questions. Rules are not enforced swiftly and decisively. Risk becoming. Risking the risk is that, uh, our our legislation may become purely declarative, declaratory, and undermine the EU's credibility and capacity to protect minors. So my question is, what factors led the Commission to delay the activation of its strongest DSA enforcement tools in a situation involving clear and ongoing risks to children. And how will the Commission ensure that in future cases of this nature, hopefully there will be none? But where evidence is clear and harm is ongoing, the protection of minors is delivered swiftly and swiftly and effectively in practice. Thank you very much.”
  Digital platforms liability for harmful and illegal content