Aldo PATRICIELLO

Policy topics Aldo PATRICIELLO is active on

What Aldo PATRICIELLO has said (23)

• 2026-03-11 “Answer given by Mr Jørgensen on behalf of the European Commission 22.5.2026 Written question Europe is facing a serious situation when it comes to fossil fuels, which threatens to impose further costs on households and business. A united, coordinated European response is needed in order to avoid fragmented national approaches and disruptive signals to the market: solidarity, transparency, and cooperation remain critical. In response, the Commission presented on 22 April 2026 the AccelerateEU communication [1] with concrete measures to be taken immediately at Member States level in order to shield families and business alike, increase coordination and accelerate phase-out from fossil fuels, building on the lessons learnt with the 2022 crisis. These measures must be targeted — protecting the most vulnerable, temporary and avoid worsening supply conditions, focusing on energy savings. They should accelerate the phasing out of fossil fuels by increasing the efficiency of the energy system and accelerating deployment of electrification and homegrown clean energy, including by better leveraging storage and demand flexibility for the benefit of consumers. No EU-wide mechanism such as price ceiling is currently envisaged. Furthermore, the Commission will adopt a set of detailed recommendations to implement the Citizens Energy Package [2] , to help consumers bring down their bills. These recommendations will aim at preventing consumer disconnections, prioritise consumer protection and switching to cheaper contracts, as well as expanding support for self-consumption and energy communities. EU funds can play an important role in mitigating the impact of the current situation for example to support investments on energy efficiency; the setting up of an extraordinary fund to support Member States is not currently envisaged. [1] https://energy.ec.europa.eu/strategy/accelerateeu-strengthen-eu-energy-resilience_en. [2] https://energy.ec.europa.eu/news/commission-boost-access-affordable-and-clean-energy-all-europeans-2026-03-10_en.”
  EU approach to electricity market and prices · EU approach to energy security (home-made vs import sources)
• 2026-02-19 “P-000720/2026 Answer given by Mr Várhelyi on behalf of the European Commission Food products placed on the EU market must comply with very stringent requirements to protect human, animal and plant health. These requirements apply to all products no matter they are produced in the EU or not. Member States must carry out official controls and enforcement activities according to Regulation (EU) 2017/625 1 , including at the stage of import to ensure that only products in compliance with the applicable legislation are placed on the EU market. Where food of non-animal origin from third countries poses a contamination risk, the Commission may take measures through Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/1793 2 . These measures may include checks at border control posts at harmonised frequencies, or stricter certification/testing requirements. Tomatoes and tomato products from Egypt are currently not subject to such measures. Under the Vision for Agriculture and Food 3 , the Commission will pursue a stronger alignment of production standards applied to imported products. In addition, on 9 December 2025 4 , the Commission announced a series of measures to strengthen import controls at EU borders and in third countries, among them (i) 50% increase of audits in non-EU countries, (ii) 33% increase of audits in EU border control posts, and (iii) training for over 600 national authority staff. In addition, enterprises active on the EU market will be required to respect the rules provided in Directive (EU) 2024/1760 on corporate sustainability due diligence 5 . 1 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2017/625/oj. 2 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg_impl/2019/1793/oj. 3 https://agriculture.ec.europa.eu/overview-vision-agriculture-food/vision-agriculture-and-food_en. 4 At the Implementation dialogue on import controls. 5 http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2024/1760/oj.”
  Import of agri-food products in the EU · Pesticides & trade · EU policy on labour exploitation in global supply chains
• 2026-02-11 “E-000580/2026 Answer given by Mr Brunner on behalf of the European Commission While national security remains solely a competence of the Member States, the EU supports efforts at EU and national levels to prevent and combat, inter alia, organised crime through the existing envelope Internal Security Fund (ISF) 2021-2027 1 . The Commission regularly assesses the implementation of the ISF and collaborates with Member States to address emerging internal security challenges. The Agenda to Prevent and Counter Terrorism adopted on 26 February 2026 2 highlights the need to adopt a security-by-design principle in planning of urban areas, public spaces and places of worship across Europe. It also secures investments for EUR 30 million in projects aimed at improving the overall security of public spaces. The EU already allocates specific funding under ISF for initiatives that address urban security and organised crime and help Member States modernise their police forces and tools. Examples include projects to enhance national operational capabilities, such as purchase of specialised equipment, development and upgrading of communication and information systems for law enforcement authorities, e.g. the recent call for the ‘Uptake of innovative digital technologies, including Artificial Intelligence, by Law Enforcement Authorities’ 3 . These measures aim to strengthen the protection of citizens, public spaces, and critical infrastructure against evolving and increasingly transnational threats while supporting the work of national authorities. For 2028-2034, the Commission has proposed a tripling of funding for internal security policy priorities, inter alia to better address the priorities cited in the question 4 . 1 Regulation (EU) 2021/1149 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 7 July 2021 establishing the Internal Security Fund. 2 COM (2026) 101 final. 3 Reference ISF/2026/SA/INNO/3.4.3. 4 Proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing the Union support for internal security for the period from 2028 to 2034 COM(2025) 542 final of 16 July 2025 under Proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing the European fund for economic, social and territorial cohesion, agriculture and rural, fisheries and maritime, prosperity and security for the period 20282034 and amending Regulation (EU) 2023/955 and Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509 COM(2025) 565 final of 16 July 2025.”
  Privacy & law enforcement · EU law enforcement cooperation in criminal matters
• 2026-02-11 “Answer given by Mr Dombrovskis on behalf of the European Commission 8.5.2026 Written question The Commission put forward a plan to simplify EU laws and cut burdens, laid out in the communication ‘A simpler and Faster Europe’ [1] , to reduce burdens by at least 25% for companies and 35% for small and medium-sized enterprises, which means cutting administrative costs by EUR 37.5 billion by the end of the mandate. In 2025, the Commission adopted ten omnibus proposals and other simplification initiatives, bringing EUR 15 billion annual administrative savings. Furthermore, the President of the Commission announced a regulatory deep house cleaning of the acquis to eliminate outdated provisions and overlaps and foster regulatory consolidation. : To ensure more uniform application of EU policies, the Commission will also address gold-plating at national level, which can result in additional barriers and costs. This Action Plan was presented on 28 April 2026 as part of the communication on a ‘Simpler Clearer and Better Enforced EU Rulebook’ [2] . To support these efforts, the Commission has introduced new consultation tools to reach out to stakeholders, seeking their views on what is working and what could be improved. Members of the College have held a total of 57 Implementation Dialogues so far [3] , engaging over 1 100 diverse stakeholders. Insights from the implementation dialogues have contributed to several omnibus and simplification proposals. Moreover, the next multiannual financial framework will have a simpler architecture, with fewer programmes and common rules across programmes. Advisory and business support services will be streamlined. More than 30 online portals with information about the budget will be merged into one user-friendly entry point. The Commission will reuse existing data and embed ‘digital by default’ and ‘once-only’ principles to ease reporting and compliance costs. [1] Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions, A simpler and faster Europe: Communication on implementation and simplification, COM(2025) 47 final. [2] COM(2026)380 final https://commission.europa.eu/publications/simpler-clearer-and-better-enforced-eu-rulebook_en. [3] https://commission.europa.eu/law/law-making-process/better-regulation/simplification-and-implementation/implementation-dialogues-0_en.”
  Digitalization of public governance & administration · Conditions to access EU budget
• 2026-01-14 “E-000129/2026 Answer given by Executive Vice-President Séjourné on behalf of the European Commission Europe’s competitiveness faces unprecedent challenges 1 and it continues to be at the centre of the EU’s industrial and Single Market policies. As set out in the Competitiveness Compass 2 , the Commission is implementing many initiatives to strengthen the business case for a competitive industry in Europe. These include the Clean Industrial Deal 3 and sectoral action plans 4 aiming to improve access to affordable energy, markets, investments, materials and skills. The upcoming Industrial Accelerator Act will contribute to an industrial renewal in Europe, including by promoting European preference in strategic sectors. Moreover, as outlined in the Single Market Strategy 5 , the Commission continues to address Single Market barriers, promote investment and reduce administrative burdens to ensure a competitive home market for EU industry. Member States are responsible for taxation including tax incentives supporting employment and production capacity. As part of the Clean Industrial Deal, the Commission recommended 6 Member States to use appropriate tax incentives to support clean investment and will monitor the implementation of these measures. Furthermore, the Clean Industrial Deal State Aid Framework 7 enables necessary and proportionate State aid to crowd in private investment. The swift implementation of EU industrial policy and Single Market measures, including by the co-legislators and Member States, is key to supporting a strong industrial base and quality jobs in Europe. 1 The Commission’s latest analysis of the state of Europe’s competitiveness can be found in the 2026 Annual Single Market and Competitiveness Report and the Staff Working Document with the Key Performance Indicators both available here: https://single-market-economy.ec.europa.eu/publications/2026-annual-singlemarket-and-competitiveness-report_en. 2 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:52025DC0030. 3 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:52025DC0085. 4 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:52025DC0125 (steel and metals); https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:52025DC0530 (chemicals); https://eurlex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:52025DC0095 (automotive sector). 5 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:52025DC0500. 6 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=OJ:L_202501307. 7 https://competition-policy.ec.europa.eu/document/download/68fd1c39-7e63-43eb-848d56aba3b197ec_en?filename=CISAF_en.pdf.”
  "Buy European" provisions · EU industrial funding · State Aid
• 2025-10-27 “E-004223/2025 Answer given by Mr Kadis on behalf of the European Commission Some Mediterranean stakeholders advocated that a tailored 1 management approach, informed by robust and detailed disaggregated datasets, can enhance precision in decision-making and the alignment of management with conservation, social and economic objectives. The Commission explored a more disaggregated approach for the implementation of the Western Mediterranean Multi-Annual Management Plan (MAP), following the repartition of the Geographical sub-Areas (GSAs) 2 . In 2025, the Scientific, Technical and Economic Committee for Fisheries indicated 3 differences in the status of each stock group and therefore considered that the fishing mortality needs to be reduced differently between the stock groups and GSAs. Considering that the most vulnerable stock in each Effort Management Unit is not present in all GSAs, the Commission proposed to compensate, in the respective GSAs, fishing vessels not fishing the most vulnerable stock. This was meant to ensure a level-playing field between the fleets of different GSAs, as reflected in the Commission non paper on the Western Mediterranean Fishing Opportunities 4 , complementing the original Commission proposal. Τhe European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF) can support a wide range of actions for Member States to implement with their national EMFAF programmes, including temporary and permanent cessation measures in order to achieve the objectives of the Western Mediterranean MAP, insurance schemes, actions for selectivity improvement, reduction of undersize catches and efficient closure areas as well as actions to support the resilience of the sector and advancing on its innovation and energy transition. 1 https://www.en.medac.eu/files/documentazione_pareri_lettere/2025/02/33_2025_medac_advice_disaggregated_data_tailored_manag ement.pdf. 2 As defined by the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean. 3 STECF 25-09 pages 14-19; https://stecf.ec.europa.eu/document/download/5a91e273-626f-4468-858b-72a875da211d_en. 4 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex:52025PC0509.”
  Funding for fisheries and aquaculture · Environmental regulation of fisheries
• 2025-10-16 “E-004071/2025 Answer given by Mr Tzitzikostas on behalf of the European Commission The Commission recognises the substantial benefits that the latest generation of aviation security screening technologies, in particular Explosive Detection Systems for Cabin Baggage C3 1 equipment using computer tomography, bring to both security and passenger facilitation. These systems are already deployed at several European airports, enhancing detection capability and operational efficiency, and incorporating the capacity to screen liquids, aerosols and gels (LAGs) 2 in line with the most advanced standards 3 currently approved in the EU. The aviation security regulatory framework provides the strategic and technical basis for updating the EU aviation security baseline 4 through a coordinated and forward-looking approach to passenger, cabin and hold-baggage screening. It aims to promote high performing screening technologies across EU airports in a transparent and operationally feasibly manner while ensuring the continued application of the One-Stop Security (OSS) 5 system. To this end, in 2026, the Commission intends to launch a formal regulatory process to modernise the aviation security baseline, thus supporting the progressive and proportionate deployment of these technologies. 1 As established under Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2015/1998, which sets out detailed measures for the implementation of the common basic standards on aviation security, including performance and certification requirements for Explosive Detection Systems for Cabin Baggage (EDSCB). 2 LAGs: liquids, aerosols and gels shall include pastes, lotions, liquid/solid mixtures and the contents of pressurised containers, such as toothpaste, hair gel, drinks, soups, syrups, perfume, shaving foam and other items with similar consistencies. 3 In accordance with Commission Implementing Decision C(2015) 8005, which lays down detection performance requirements applicable to security screening equipment within the EU aviation security framework. 4 As defined in the Commission Staff Working Document ‘Working towards an enhanced and more resilient aviation security policy: a stocktaking’ (SWD(2023)37). 5 The One-Stop Security (OSS) system allows passengers, cabin baggage and hold baggage screened at EU airports, or at third-country airports recognised as equivalent, to transfer within the EU without undergoing additional security screening, thereby maintaining a common level of protection while facilitating passenger flows.”
  EU policy on aviation safety
• 2025-10-16 “E-004072/2025 Answer given by Mr Šefčovič on behalf of the European Commission The Commission is aware of the difficulties faced by Italian pasta producers and is actively engaged at every level to support them. In close coordination with Italy and the producers concerned, on 6 October 2025 the Commission filed comments with the Department of Commerce in the framework of the investigation to recall the World Trade Organization criteria for correctly determining dumping margins for companies under investigation. The issue has been raised consistently with the United States in all relevant fora. The Commission’s concerns were raised with the United States at the Anti-dumping committee in Geneva on 28-29 October 2025 and the Commission continues to raise the matter in bilateral contacts at both technical and political level. The Commission is also in regular and direct contact with Italian pasta producers. Senior Commission officials have recently held dedicated calls with the sector to ensure the sector’s views and evidence are fully reflected in the Commission’s engagement with the United States. The Commission will continue to monitor the situation and supports the competitiveness of the EU agri-food sector, including Italian pasta producers. The Commission continues to support the sector – and more broadly European agri-food – through existing EU instruments such as promotion programmes, protection of geographical indications, and ongoing trade dialogues.”
  EU-US trade relations
• 2025-10-13 “P-004014/2025 Answer given by Mr Hansen on behalf of the European Commission The Commission recognises the vital role of agriculture in Campania’s economy and is aware of the challenges faced by farm businesses in completing investments under the Campania Rural Development Programme (RDP) 2014–2022. Since the RDP are implemented under the share management mode, the decisions on the revocation or amendment of sanctions imposed by the national authorities to farmers under the RDP fall within the competence of the Member State and its regional authorities. The Commission may, however, provide guidance and support to help ensure that the programme’s implementation is consistent with EU law and objectives. Regarding the extension of deadlines for reporting and expenditure, the legislation 1 sets the final eligibility date for payments under the 2014–2022 programmes on 31 December 2025. The Commission remains committed to supporting the authorities in Italy in needed administrative actions for ensuring investments projects are completed on time, the allocated EU funds are used effectively and in compliance with the applicable rules. 1 Article 65(2) of Regulation (EU) No 1303/2013 (as extended by Regulation (EU) 2020/2220 of the European Parliament and of the Council).”
  Agricultural funding
• 2025-08-26 “E-003294/2025 Answer given by Executive Vice-President Mînzatu on behalf of the European Commission The Commission is fully aware of the importance of the issues raised by the Honourable Member and wishes to assure that it takes this matter with the utmost seriousness. The Commission remains firmly committed to ensuring the effective protection of workers’ rights across the EU. At this stage, however, the Commission has no additional information to provide beyond the clarifications already given in its previous replies to written questions E-002441/2024 1 and E 002232/2025 2 . The Commission continues to closely follow the situation in line with its responsibilities under the Treaties. 1 https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-10-2024-002441_EN.html. 2 https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/E-10-2025-002232_EN.html.”
  EU Supervision of the Rule of Law · Jurisdiction conflicts between EU and national courts
• 2025-08-25 “E-003279/2025 Answer given by Executive Vice-President Mînzatu on behalf of the European Commission The evaluation of projects under Erasmus+ programme is based on merit and transparency principles, involving external experts to ensure that it is carried out as objectively as possible. The experts are selected based on their skills and knowledge in the relevant fields. To ensure their independence, their names are not made public during the evaluation cycle. At the same time, aiming at transparency, lists of experts previously invited to assess proposals directly managed by the Commission or its Executive Agencies are publicly available 1 . Experts must avoid any conflict of interest concerning the projects they are asked to evaluate. To this end, they are required to sign a declaration confirming that no such conflict exists and to promptly inform the National/Executive Agency is a potential conflict arises in the future. For the sake of consistency, all provisions governing evaluations apply to the Erasmus+ Programme as a whole and are not sector specific (e.g. youth). These provisions include a formal review procedure, that has long been in place. As stated in the Programme Guide: “All applicants will be informed about the evaluation result through an evaluation result letter […] If the applicant believes that the evaluation procedure was flawed, he/she can submit a complaint (following the deadlines and procedures set out in the notification letter on the outcome of the evaluation).” 2 The Erasmus+ Project Results Platform 3 provides comprehensive information on funded projects, ensuring transparency and visibility as well as facilitating knowledge-sharing. 1 https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/portal/screen/how-to-participate/reference-documents. 2 https://erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu/programme-guide/part-c/what-happens-submission. 3 https://erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu/projects.”
  EU volunteering programs · Governance of academic priorities within the EU
• 2025-07-15 “E-002873/2025 Answer given by Ms Lahbib on behalf of the European Commission The Commission would like to recall that the EU has a support competence in civil protection. As such, the training of first responders, including volunteers, is the primary responsibility of the individual Member States. Together with the Member States, the Commission implements the Union Civil Protection Mechanism (UCPM) Training Programme 1 , aiming at increasing the overall response capability, by enhancing the coordination, compatibility and complementarity of response capacities, improving the competence of civil protection experts in Member States and UCPM participating states. This programme supplements the national training offer provided to experts and volunteers. Whilst the allocation of dedicated resources specifically for the training, support, and stable employment of volunteer firefighters is primarily a national responsibility, the EU provides support through various funding mechanisms, such as the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+), which can be used by Member States to invest in the training and skills of civil protection experts. The specific allocation and implementation of such programmes are determined at the national or regional level. To facilitate cooperation in disaster response under the UCPM, teams of firefighters, selected by their national authorities, are being prepositioned in countries most affected by forest fires, during the summer period. This contributes to the exchange of expertise and increased interoperability, whilst representing the first layer of international response when needed. 1 https://civil-protection-knowledge-network.europa.eu/system/files/202406/UCPM%20Training%20Programme%20Brochure%202024.pdf.”
  EU policy on infrastructure for preventing climate-related disasters (floods, droughts, extreme weather etc.)
• 2025-07-11 “E-002840/2025 Answer given by Mr Kadis on behalf of the European Commission 1. While the Commission represents the EU in the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) negotiations, it is the prerogative of the Member States to distribute domestically its share of the EU quota. In accordance with Article 17 of the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) Regulation 1 , when allocating fishing opportunities, Member States must use transparent and objective criteria, including those of an environmental, social and economic nature. Moreover, Regulation (EU) 2023/2053 2 provides for additional flexibility for quota allocation to small-scale vessels. The Commission therefore considers that Member States’ administrations are best placed to assess the benefits of domestic fishing opportunities’ allocation. 2. Sustainability is pursued under economic, social as well as environmental pillars. As such, protecting the livelihoods, tradition, culture, and community associated with small-scale fisheries is of vital importance. Member States have the responsibility to tailor the appropriate support for their small-scale fisheries, depending on their needs. This includes the allocation of quota, and the tailored support offered in the national European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF) 3 programme. EMFAF regulation allows Member States to offer support up to 100% of costs for small-scale fisheries. 3. Member States are best placed to identify how traditional fishing fits into their national sustainable blue economy model. EMFAF provides opportunities to support and develop traditional fisheries under the Sustainable Blue Economy objective of the fund, in particular through Community Lead Local Development (CLLD). 1 Regulation (EU) No 1380/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2013 on the Common Fisheries Policy, amending Council Regulations (EC) No 1954/2003 and (EC) No 1224/2009 and repealing Council Regulations (EC) No 2371/2002 and (EC) No 639/2004 and Council Decision 2004/585/EC (OJ L 354, 28.12.2013, pp. 22–61). 2 Regulation (EU) 2023/2053 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 13 September 2023 establishing a multiannual management plan for bluefin tuna in the eastern Atlantic and the Mediterranean, amending Regulations (EC) No 1936/2001, (EU) 2017/2107, and (EU) 2019/833 and repealing Regulation (EU) 2016/1627 (OJ L 238, 27.9.2023, pp. 1–64). 3 Regulation (EU) 2021/1139 of 7 July 2021 establishing the European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund and amending Regulation (EU) 2017/1004.”
  Funding for fisheries and aquaculture · Environmental regulation of fisheries
• 2025-07-02 “E-002685/2025 Answer given by Mr Tzitzikostas on behalf of the European Commission The Commission recognises the critical importance of ensuring protection and safety of travellers. The upcoming EU Strategy for Sustainable Tourism, to be released in Spring 2026, will address these issues, as one of our post-pandemic priorities for the tourism sector is to improve its resilience. The Commission is working with Destination Management Organisations to help them to be prepared for crisis and have action plans in place. In that respect the Commission, with the financial support of the European Parliament, finalised in 2024 a pilot project on crisis management in tourism: 50 destinations received technical assistance on crisis preparedness. Protection and safety of travellers in the event of emergencies are responsibility of Member States. When a crisis overwhelms national capacities, affected Member States can request assistance through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism 1 , which supports national efforts to prepare for emergencies through knowledge exchange, capacity-building and financial assistance for national and cross-border initiatives. Coordination of response is ensured via the Emergency Response Coordination Centre, the Commission’s 24/7 single contact point. The Preparedness Union Strategy 2 aims to promote public access to risk information, support the development of early warning systems, encourage the adoption of preparedness measures and foster a culture of prevention. The Commission is working on a new EU online platform to provide citizens and travellers with tailored and accessible information on risks and practical steps to mitigate them. In addition, the European Regional Development Fund, the Cohesion Fund and Interreg 3 can support projects for disaster prevention and preparedness. 1 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:02013D1313-20231218. 2 https://webgate.ec.europa.eu/circabc-ewpp/d/d/workspace/SpacesStore/b81316ab-a513-49a1-b520b6a6e0de6986/file.bin. 3 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2021/1058/2024-12-24/eng.”
  EU policy on aviation safety
• 2025-07-02 “E-002686/2025 Answer given by Mr Brunner on behalf of the European Commission While addressing telephone scams primarily falls under the competence of Member States, the Commission provides support. The ProtectEU Strategy 1 and the European Multidisciplinary Platform Against Criminal Threats (EMPACT) cycle to tackle online fraud enhance collaborative efforts across the EU. To further strengthen the EU’s ability to combat online fraud, the Commission will support prevention measures and more effective law enforcement action and will work with Member States and stakeholders to protect victims. These efforts will be formalised in an Action Plan on Online Fraud. Additionally, the EU promotes digital literacy through programs like the Digital Education Action Plan and the Media Literacy for All Programme 2 , aiming to boost digital skills among all age groups, including older adults. Regulatory frameworks, such as The Network and Information Security 3 allows providers to take appropriate and proportionate measures, like the use of multi-factor authentication or secured voice, video and text communications. The European Electronic Communications Code 4 and the ePrivacy Directive 5 , require telecom providers to implement robust security measures, indirectly mitigating fraudulent calls. 11 Member States adopted anti-spoofing measures, including obligations for telecom operators to block spoofed calls from abroad, short message service (SMS) sender identification (ID) register and a technical solution for calls authentication, effectively curbing a major method used in telephone scams. The Commission is also assessing possible measures as part of the future Digital Networks Act 6 . 1 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:52025DC0148. 2 https://education.ec.europa.eu/focus-topics/digital-education/plan. 3 https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/policies/nis2-directive. 4 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/EN/legal-content/summary/european-electronic-communications-code.html. 5 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2002/58/oj/eng. 6 https://ec.europa.eu/info/law/better-regulation/have-your-say/initiatives/14709-Digital-Networks-Act_en.”
  EU policy on aging workforce and pensions · EU competences on social policies
• 2025-07-02 “E-002687/2025 Answer given by Mr Tzitzikostas on behalf of the European Commission 1. The Commission is aware of the negative impacts that unbalanced tourism may have in some destinations, including Mediterranean coastlines. While in many cases the local authorities are best placed in addressing these environmental and socioeconomic challenges, the Commission is taking these and other challenges seriously. Through the Transition Pathway for Tourism 1 , the Commission supports destinations in their efforts to develop tourism in a balanced way, by providing better access to data, monitoring tourism flows, or facilitating dialogue and peer-to-peer learning. 2. Many projects on sustainable tourism in the Mediterranean have already been funded under the Interreg Euro-Med programme. Its active online community also hosts many resources for new actions. For example, the recently started Regenera4MED project 2 will promote regenerative practices that go beyond sustainability, by building climate resilience, supporting local communities, and preserving cultural heritage. 3. The recent European Oceans Pact 3 is a comprehensive strategy to better protect the ocean, promote a thriving blue economy and support well-being and resilience of coastal communities. In addition, an updated version of the guidelines on ‘Tourism and Recreational Activities in Natura 2000’ will be adopted by the end of 2025. The objective of these guidelines is to support public authorities and economic operators by providing guidance and best practises to enhance the value of Natura 2000 Network for tourism, while ensuring that such activities remain sustainable within EU protected areas. Finally, the Commission is preparing an EU Sustainable Tourism Strategy for 2026, with an ongoing open consultation to citizens and targeted stakeholders 4 . 1 https://transition-pathways.europa.eu/tourism. 2 https://regenera4med.interreg-euro-med.eu/. 3 https://oceans-and-fisheries.ec.europa.eu/european-ocean-pact_en. 4 https://transport.ec.europa.eu/news-events/news/have-your-say-upcoming-eu-sustainable-tourism-strategy2025-06-23_en.”
  EU strategy for tourism development
• 2025-06-04 “E-002232/2025 Answer given by Executive Vice-President Mînzatu on behalf of the European Commission The Commission refers the Honourable Member to its previous reply to question E– 002441/2024 regarding the situation of tax judges in Italy, which was transmitted to the European Parliament on 8 January 2025. In that reply, the Commission informed the Honourable Member that, following a preliminary examination of the compatibility of the relevant national provisions with Clause 4 of the Framework Agreement on part-time work annexed to Directive 97/81/EC 1 , Article 7 of Directive 2003/88/EC 2 concerning certain aspects of the organisation of working time, and Directive 92/85/EEC 3 on the safety and health of pregnant workers, it had decided to initiate an informal exchange with the Italian authorities concerning possible infringements of the aforementioned legal instruments. The Commission is currently analysing the observations provided by the Italian authorities. Upon completion of this assessment, and in light of the outcome of the informal dialogue, the Commission may determine whether the conditions are met to initiate formal infringement proceedings for a possible breach of EU law. 1 Council Directive 97/81/EC of 15 December 1997 concerning the Framework Agreement on part-time work concluded by UNICE, CEEP and the ETUC - https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/1997/81/oj/eng. 2 Directive 2003/88/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 4 November 2003 concerning certain aspects of the organisation of working time - https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/2003/88/oj/eng. 3 Council Directive 92/85/EEC of 19 October 1992 on the introduction of measures to encourage improvements in the safety and health at work of pregnant workers and workers who have recently given birth or are breastfeeding - https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dir/1992/85/oj/eng.”
  EU Supervision of the Rule of Law · Jurisdiction conflicts between EU and national courts
• 2025-05-21 “E-002031/2025 Answer given by Ms Zaharieva on behalf of the European Commission The Commission acknowledges the challenges in developing new treatments for rare diseases (RDs). The EU regulation on orphan medicinal products, (EC) No 141/2000 1 catalysed the development of medicines for people living with a rare disease, as reported in the public registry of orphan designated products in the EU 2 . In an effort to tackle this challenge, the Commission supports research and innovation (R&I) on rare diseases (RDs) 3 . Over the past 25 years, through the EU’s framework programs for R&I, it has allocated more than EUR 5 billion to single and multi-partner RD research projects 4 . Notably, the development of new RD treatments has been the focus of several EC research consortia, whose work led to new RD therapies 5,6 approved in the EU. Under Horizon Europe 7 (2021-2027), the Health cluster 8 continues to support RD research, through collaborative projects developing RD therapies 9 and optimising the RD clinical trials through public-private consortia 10 . The flagship initiative, the European Partnership on Rare Diseases, ERDERA 11 , that started in 2024 as a co-funded Partnership with EU Member States, provides further research funding opportunities, such under its 2025 12 call dedicated to pre-clinical therapy studies for RDs. Moreover, future opportunities addressing clinical research, are envisaged under the recently adopted Life Science Strategy 13 (LSS) that sets out a coordinated approach across the entire life sciences value chain. LSS introduces a new set of actions, including flagship initiatives, such as an Investment Plan for multi-country clinical trials to boost research, innovation and market access of new medicines. 1 Regulation (EC) No 141/2000 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 December 1999 on orphan medicinal products, (OJ L 18, 22.1.2000, p. 1.1, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/reg/2000/141/oj ). 2 Union Register of medicinal products - Public health - European Commission: https://ec.europa.eu/health/documents/community-register/html/reg_od_act.htm?sort=a. 3 EU-Factsheet (edition Feb. 2025) ‘Collaboration: A key to unlock the challenges of rare diseases research’: https://op.europa.eu/en/web/eu-law-and-publications/publication-detail/-/publication/c85cfbb5-f58f-11ef-b7db01aa75ed71a1/language-en. 4 More info can via found via searches at cordis dissemination database: https://cordis.europa.eu/projects. 5 ALPHA-MAN (2010-2014) project developed a new orphan medicine for the ultra-rare disease alphamannosidosis: https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/261331/news. 6 VISION-DMD (https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/667078) (2016-2021) project led to a new treatment of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy for patients from the age of 4 that was approved in the EU in December 2023. 7 https://research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/funding/funding-opportunities/funding-programmes-and-opencalls/horizon-europe_en. 8 https://research-and-innovation.ec.europa.eu/funding/funding-opportunities/funding-programmes-and-opencalls/horizon-europe/cluster-1-health_en. 9 https://cordis.europa.eu/programme/id/HORIZON_HORIZON-HLTH-2022-DISEASE-06-04-two-stage/en. 10 Such as RealiseD under the Innovative Health Initiative https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/101165912. 11 https://erdera.org/ (2024-2031). 12 https://erdera.org/funding/. 13 COM/2025/525 final ‘Choose Europe for life sciences: A strategy to position the EU as the world’s most attractive place for life sciences by 2030’.”
  Pharma IPRs · Pharmaceuticals regulation in EU
• 2025-01-20 “E-000209/2025 Answer given by Mr Várhelyi on behalf of the European Commission The health mission of Italy’s Recovery and Resilience Plan includes EUR 524 million aimed at strengthening biomedical research within the National Health Service 1 , including funding research on rare cancers. The EU4Health Programme 2 supports Member States with the implementation of the EU Cancer Plan, including through direct grants to Member States for specific actions. The structure of the projects, allocation of tasks, and funding is under the remit of the participating Member State authorities. Consequently, the Commission is not in a position to assess how EU funding is aligned with existing national funding programmes. The European Cancer Inequalities Registry 3 highlights inequalities in cancer prevention and care across EU countries. It helps Member States identify areas for action at national and regional level. Member State representatives, including from Italy, are regularly consulted on the initiative. As part of the European Semester 4 the Commission evaluates the Italian health system performance and engages with Italian authorities on priority areas for improvement. Some of the investments in Italy’s Recovery and Resilience Plan aim to reduce territorial disparities by creating a new model for the Territorial healthcare assistance network, including the setup of Community Health Houses, Community Hospitals and Territorial Coordination Centres. The national programme ‘Health Equity’ (EUR 375 million in EU funding) aims to strengthen healthcare services in less developed regions and make the access to health services more equitable. It focuses on ensuring access to oncological screening programmes by identifying populations in socio-economic vulnerability, living in remote or disadvantaged areas. 1 Investment M6C2 number 2.1 ‘Strengthening and enhancement of the NHS biomedical research’. 2 EU4Health - European Commission https://commission.europa.eu/funding-tenders/find-funding/eu-fundingprogrammes/eu4health_en 3 European Cancer Inequalities Registry (ECIR) https://cancer-inequalities.jrc.ec.europa.eu/ 4 European Semester documents for Italy https://commission.europa.eu/business-economy-euro/europeansemester/european-semester-your-country/european-semester-documents-italy_en”
  EU competences on health · Public and private sectors role in healthcare services
• 2025-01-13 “E-000105/2025 Answer given by Mr Várhelyi on behalf of the European Commission The Commission recognises that cardiovascular diseases have a significant impact on many people, communities and health systems in the EU. The ‘Healthier Together’ initiative 1 , cocreated with Member States and stakeholders, provides the strategic framework to support Member States in tackling non-communicable diseases, including cardiovascular diseases. The Commission supports knowledge sharing, such as the exchange of best practices 2 between Member States, and activities to improve health literacy. Financial support is provided under the EU4Health Programme 3 to implement best practices that contribute to reducing preventable deaths caused by cardiovascular diseases. The President of the Commission announced in her political guidelines that the Commission will step up work on preventive health, focusing on improving cardiovascular health through coordinated efforts, and entrusted the Commissioner for Health and Animal Welfare with leading this work. As it was announced by the Commissioner, the Commission is currently developing an ambitious Plan for European Cardiovascular Health, building on the success of Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan. Work is ongoing through the joint action on cardiovascular diseases and diabetes, and with technical support from international partners, such as the World Health Organization and the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development. The Commission is working closely with the Expert Group on Public Health 4 , the main forum for discussions with Member States on key public health challenges. Member States may also decide to organise specific awareness campaigns at national level with the aim of increasing knowledge on the prevention of sudden cardiac arrest in sportspeople. 1 https://health.ec.europa.eu/non-communicable-diseases/healthier-together-eu-non-communicable-diseasesinitiative_en 2 https://webgate.ec.europa.eu/dyna/bp-portal/ 3 EU4Health programme 2021-2027: https://health.ec.europa.eu/funding/eu4health-programme-2021-2027vision-healthier-european-union_en; also replied in Answer to written question E-000092/2023 (ASW): https://www.europarl.europa.eu/doceo/document/-ASW_EN.html 4 https://health.ec.europa.eu/non-communicable-diseases/expert-group-public-health_en”
  EU measures on lifestyle-related behaviours (smoking, drinking, eating, etc.) · EU competences on health
• 2024-11-06 “E-002441/2024 Answer given by Executive Vice-President Mînzatu on behalf of the European Commission The Commission has indeed received a number of complaints regarding alleged incompatibility of the employment conditions of honorary tax judges with a number of provisions of EU law. The complaints received allege that, although they perform the same tasks and are subject to the same obligations, honorary tax judges are treated less favourably vis à vis full-time professional tax magistrates in terms of their employment conditions. The initial complaint was received in 2023 and complainants submitted further detailed information in 2024. The Commission is assessing the information provided and will decide on next steps once that assessment is completed.”
  Rule of law and democracy in the EU (political compass)
• 2024-10-30 “E-002323/2024 Answer given by Executive Vice-President Séjourné on behalf of the European Commission 1. The applicability of Directive 2006/123/EC 1 (the Services Directive) to authorisations for the use of state-owned coastal properties for leisure and touristic activities (so called beach concessions) was clarified by the Court of Justice of the European Union on 14 July 2016 2 and, more recently, on 20 April 2023 3 . No amendments or supplements to the Services Directive are foreseen in this respect. 2. It should be recalled, first, that, in accordance with Article 12(2) of the Services Directive, no advantage to incumbents shall be provided at the moment of assigning beach concessions, whatever their size. However, the Commission is of course in support of small and mediumsized enterprises (SMEs), in general, and will therefore monitor that the application of the national laws in this sector does not pose barriers that could prevent all interested providers, particularly SMEs, from taking full advantage of economic opportunities in the internal market. 1 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:32006L0123 2 Judgment of 14 July 2016, Promoimpresa srl and Others v Consorzio dei comuni della Sponda Bresciana del Lago di Garda e del Lago di Idro and Others, Joined Cases C-458/14 and C-67/15, EU:C:2016:558. 3 Judgment of 20 April 2023, Autorità Garante della Concorrenza e del Mercato (Commune de Ginosa), C348/22, EU:C:2023:301.”
  EU Single Market harmonisation · EU Competition policy
• “Thank you very much. Colleagues, I'd like to thank the rapporteur very much for the draft opinion, which contains many important points which we agree with. It is important to note that throughout Europe, people with disabilities encounter major obstacles when trying to access health care, higher education and training, and this hampers them from having a dignified quality of life. It is for this reason that we need to be able to. Close these gaps in the EU strategy for rights of persons with disabilities, particularly in strategic areas such as education, work. And we also need to ensure non-discrimination when it comes to access to healthcare. Here particularly, I'm thinking about the need for us to have a clearer framework when it comes to cross border access for patients with disabilities, particularly here, I'm thinking about the need to offer adequate care to persons with disabilities who live in the outermost regions, and who therefore encounter even more difficulties when it comes to accessing the healthcare that they need. I'm also thinking here about persons with disabilities who don't have family support and so who require long term help. And who have to face difficulties on a daily basis alone. We also need to think about persons with disabilities and their families, because this needs to be a real priority that the EU should focus on in order to ensure that we can promote innovative research so that we can have effective improvements made for the daily lives of these people. As a shadow, our group will be presenting amendments, including additional points which we believe are very important and would like to see them included in the final text. Thank you very much.”
  EU policy on disability inclusion & accessibility