The bird is dead: are the Jews of Europe and the United States sitting on their suitcases again?
The bird is dead: are the Jews of Europe and the United States sitting on their suitcases again?

About the despair of the Jewish communities in the West. About the shock of the progressive Jews of America. The growing acceptance of the definition of anti-Semitism. About the governments of Western Europe who gave up their hands. About the situation in the United States in general. On whether President Trump will return. About aliyah. And … about the firebird. The bird is dead: are the Jews of Europe and the United States sitting on their suitcases again?

Instead of an epigraph: “canary in a mine” – an expression in the English-speaking culture, denoting a hazard indicator. In the past, miners took with them a cage containing a canary, a bird that is highly sensitive to methane and carbon monoxide impurities in the air. If the canary died, it meant that the accumulation of firedamp in the mine reached a dangerous level, and you should immediately leave the mine.

Despair in Jewish communities: there is no more strength to pretend everything is in order

Perhaps even until 2020, many European Jews, and even more so their American counterparts, continued to stubbornly insist that, they say, this whole wave of misfortunes and troubles will soon subside, convincing themselves that Europe remains the safest place for them. or the United States.

But then came the “covid” epidemic and revived a long-standing enmity towards the Jews simply because they, the Jews, are famous “poisoners of the wells.” And in May 2021, this was added to the re-inflamed anti-Semitic Muslim hatred, which rose in a mighty wave from the South-East and surged into the North-West, covering countries on both sides of the Atlantic.

Back in 2014, Western Jewish communities exuded complacency and confidence in the future. Now everything has completely changed. Now the Jews are confused and scared. And they radiate only despair and suffering. They remove the mezuzahs from the front doors, which previously emphasized their Jewishness, and now betray it treacherously. They remove Jewish symbols from their clothes. They leave Jewish communal organizations or simply do not dare to be exposed there anymore. And of course, they stay quieter than water and below the grass in university buildings, disguising themselves and hiding their Jewish identity as deeply as possible. Some of them even change their too Jewish-sounding surnames.

Against the backdrop of hundreds of anti-Semitic incidents in the past month alone, it seems that this time Jews in the West have lost heart. Now they are simply beaten in the streets just because they dare to be Jews and not hide it. So it is now in Germany. In Austria, a passenger who read a book on a train with the word “Jew” in its title was harassed and humiliated. In London, a nurse with a Star of David around her neck faced threats. In Belgium, an ultra-Orthodox Jew heard in her address: “Get out, you dirty Jewess.” And there are hundreds and even thousands of similar cases. “But the reaction this time is not at all what it would have been before, but pessimism,” notes the remarkable journalist Knaan Lifshitz, who writes on Jewish topics for the Jewish Telegraphic Agency (JTA).

In Belgium, the president of the League Against Anti-Semitism, Joel Rubinfeld, bitterly admits that he is unlikely to be able to continue living in this country with his wife and two children: “I used to think that I can, but now I doubt it.”

Brigitte Wilhiesen, renowned journalist and terrorist from the Netherlands, confirms: “After years of fighting anti-Semitism, I became convinced that all my efforts were in vain. The fight against this disease has become hopeless. If the Jews are the famous canary in the coal mine, then it’s time to admit: this bird is no longer alive.”

Yes, the bird is dead.

Progressives’ shock: Jews thrown into a landfill

It was the Jews who founded the socialist movement in America in their time, headed the trade union committees and started talking about “social justice” – even before other Americans even knew about the existence of all these concepts.

It was the Jews who undertook to defend the rights of blacks, defending and promoting them.

So they were now quite confident that, like the American left, they were not in danger. They didn’t notice that a similar process had already taken place in Britain. Jews were identified with the Labor Party. There were even “Jews” at its head, such as the communist Ed Milliband. Therefore, they considered it to be the party of their minority. But the Labor Party still became demonstratively anti-Semitic. Even though the anti-Semitic fervor in this party faded somewhat after the ouster of its recent leader and radical anti-Semite Jeremy Corbyn. Today the overwhelming majority of Jews have already left this British party, with the exception of perhaps the most anti-Zionist and anti-Jewish “Jews.”

As soon as Muslims flooded to the United States, Jews began to pay the price. Now they are shocked by the loss of their rights, which seemed to them so unshakable, but now melted, as if they never existed.

Today, Jews in the United States are perceived as white, wealthy, “privileged,” colonists, and enemies of progressives. And, of course, those who love to talk about justice – they have become the main anti-Semites today. Gee! “Progress”, as it turned out, led them back to full-blown anti-Semitism.

American Jews, marginalized and out of influence in their country, have only one way – to become citizens of Israel. Only in this way will they actually be able to enter the stage of history. Only by stopping to deal with other people’s problems, they will be able to embark on the path of real correction of the world.

Aliya begins to revive

For the first time since the beginning of the epidemic, aliyah begins to revive. Not all airports have already opened, the offices of the Jewish Agency have not reopened everywhere, and many Jews still cannot make up their minds. But anti-Semitism pushes, hits and kicks them away from the countries of exile. And the lists of Jews waiting in line for aliyah include tens of thousands of names …

In April, 2,452 repatriates arrived in Israel. In total, the annual rate was 22,800 – and this is due to the previous months, which were relatively weak due to the restrictions imposed by the epidemic in Israel and the countries of origin.

In April, repatriates arrived from the following countries: Russia – 842 people, Ukraine – 364, USA – 235, France – 208, India – 144, Kazakhstan – 106, Brazil – 99, Argentina – 60, South Africa – 56, Great Britain – 45, etc.

Source: Gplanet website

Europe is preparing to limit cash payments
Europe is preparing to limit cash payments

The European Commission is proposing to introduce a cash payment limit of up to € 10,000, with the limit being valid for the whole of the European Union. The idea is related to the fight against money laundering, the EC said in a statement.

 Europol estimates that around 1% of the EU’s annual GDP is involved in suspicious financial activity. Against this background, the Commission has presented a package of various bills related to the fight against money laundering and terrorist financing, which pose a serious threat to the European Union’s economy and financial system, as well as to the security of citizens.

“Money laundering is a clear and real threat to citizens, democratic institutions and the financial system. The scale of the problem cannot be underestimated and the loopholes that criminals can use must be closed,” said Commissioner for Financial Stability and Financial Services Meyrid. McGuinness.

“Every new money laundering scandal is too much and a clear signal that our work to fill the gaps in our financial system is not yet over. In recent years, we have made great strides and now European anti-money laundering rules are among the most important. the strictest in the world. But now they must be applied consistently and under strict supervision to make sure they really have an effect. That’s why today we are taking these bold steps to close the door to money laundering and stop criminals from filling their pockets with ill-gotten gains, “said Valdis Dombrovskis, executive vice president of human economics.

Large cash payments are a simple way for criminals to launder money, as it is very difficult to track transactions. Therefore, the EC proposes to introduce a limit for cash payments of 10,000 euros throughout the European Union.

Such restrictions already exist in about two-thirds of EU countries, but the amounts vary. The new rules aim to establish an equal limit in all countries of the bloc. National limits below 10,000 euros can be maintained, it is clear from the announcement. In Bulgaria, cash payments are limited to BGN 10,000 (EUR 5,000).

Restricting large cash payments makes it harder for criminals to launder “dirty money”, the EC said. The European Commission’s proposal must be discussed and approved by the Council of the EU and the European Parliament.

Limiting cash payments in EU countries is part of a new package of Commission initiatives. It is envisaged to set up an Anti-Money Laundering Authority, which will be responsible for supervising and coordinating the work of national authorities to ensure that the private sector complies with EU rules. The new agency should facilitate financial intelligence agencies as well as ban anonymous cryptocurrency portfolios. It may start operating in 2024.

The largest wooden building in Europe under restoration
The largest wooden building in Europe under restoration

Istanbul Buyukada Orphanage (DHA)

The Greek orphanage on the island of Buyukada in Istanbul will be restored after experts completed a study of the building after long delays.

The historic structure, dubbed the largest wooden building in Europe, will require about 20m euros for restoration.

Nazam Akkoyunlu, deputy manager of BIMTAŞ, an engineering company run by the Istanbul Municipality (IBB) that carried out the surveying, said the building needed a quick restoration, but that it would require a “big budget”. A local council for the preservation of historic buildings is currently investigating the condition of the building and is expected to approve the restoration.

The building, originally known as the Greek orphanage Prinkipo, was included in a list of endangered cultural heritage sites identified by Europa Nostra, a European cultural heritage organization, amid years of negligence and exposure to adverse weather conditions.

Despite the damage caused by a fire in 1980, the 20,000-square-foot wooden building stands firm, although parts of the roof and corner posts have since collapsed.

Europa Nostra called for at least an immediate partial refurbishment of the building.

Prior to being turned into an orphanage, the building was originally a casino and hotel built by the Compagnie des Wagons-Lits, the travel company that operated the legendary Orient Express luxury train.

The building was designed by Alexander Valuri, the Franco-Ottoman architect who also gave the appearance of Istanbul’s historic Pera Palace Hotel.

The building was completed in 1898, but the sultan refused to grant it a casino license. Eventually, the building, owned by a wealthy Greek family, was donated to the Ecumenical Orthodox Patriarchate of Fener, based in Istanbul. Thus the colossal wooden building opened its doors as an orphanage for Greek children in 1903.

The building was confiscated by the government during the First World War and was used as housing for cadets and troops of the military ally of the empire, Germany.

After the war, it again served as an orphanage, but was ordered to be evacuated in 1964 during intensified ethnic tensions between Turks and Greeks. The building was completely closed in 1977.

The patriarchate won a long court battle in 2010 for the return of the property.

In 2020, the building, which once housed about 6,000 orphans from the Greek community in Turkey, began research work that will precede the restoration. Teams mapped the original characteristics and dimensions of the orphanage.

Akkoyunlu told the Demiroren news agency that their work, in coordination with the patriarchate, used laser imaging technology and was able to reproduce the “exact condition” of the building.

How Europe pays for geriatric care
How Europe pays for geriatric care

A Bulgarian woman watching an elderly man in Germany won a landmark case

Isabella Marchinek knows from personal experience: “Polish caregivers are fleeing from Germany to Switzerland.”

Lack of rest and unpaid overtime in Germany are part of everyday life. In Switzerland, Marchinek takes care of a 93-year-old woman, and the agreed time of 42 hours per week is met.

The good conditions in which Isabella Marnicek works are the result of a landmark lawsuit won in 2015 by a Polish nurse. Her employer was then ordered to pay her 13,000 Swiss francs for overtime.

A case in Germany is also about to change the industry. On June 24, 2021, the Federal Labor Court ruled that those working in this field, who are mostly women from Eastern Europe, should receive at least a minimum wage for the hours when they are not actively employed but are available. Many of them live in the homes of the elderly people they care for and must be prepared to respond at all times. The case affects between 100,000 and 300,000 German families with elderly and sick people, Deutsche Welle reports.

How is Switzerland?

Following the court ruling in 2015, the Swiss authorities developed a standardized employment contract for the industry. It regulates working hours: 44 hours per week, the right to rest – one full and another half working day per week, as well as the payment for the additional hours in which caregivers must be available at night – from 25 to 50% of the hourly rate , depending on the condition of the person being cared for.

However, individual cantons are responsible for enforcing this standardized employment contract, and some have not adopted the new rules, said Elvira Vigers of the vpod union. In the last few years, about ten other lawsuits have increased public interest and awareness of the sector. But there are still many problems, Wiggers said, such as unpaid overtime.

“After all, there is an understanding that the willingness to react at all times must be rewarded,” she said.

Families who use the services of caregivers in Switzerland pay more than those in Germany. Only the fee for intermediary companies is between 3800 and 6700 euros. In Switzerland, where the standard of living is higher than in Germany, caregivers’ salaries are also better – they receive between 2,100 and 2,400 euros in net money.

Isabella Marchinek is hired without an intermediary company. “During the first two months in Switzerland, I photographed the list of hours I worked and sent them by e-mail to the authorities,” said the 58-year-old Pole.

In Austria, caregivers are self-employed

There are about 60,000 nurses in private homes in Austria. Since the Nursing Act was passed in 2007, almost everyone in the industry works as self-employed. At present, carers in private homes are insured and registered, but as self-employed persons they are not entitled to overtime pay or for the time they are available. Jobs are provided through intermediary agencies that have too much power and determine pay. Daily rates for carers vary between 50 and 80 euros gross. Older people are paid between 2,400 and 3,000 euros a month. Families receive financial support from the state if the income of people in need of such a service is too low. In Germany, the Austrian model is often seen as an example. “Home care is usually not possible with classic employment contracts,” said Daniel Schloer of the Nursing Association. “Our legal system does not currently offer a solution for people who live and work in the same place. We urgently need an alternative similar to that in Austria,” he said.

But according to Wolfgang Matzal, a professor of labor and social law at the University of Vienna, the Austrian model cannot be followed. If you follow someone’s orders, “it means you are an employee, not an entrepreneur,” Matsal explains, citing a 2011 ruling by the Austrian Supreme Court. “I find it scandalous that the decision of the Supreme Court on this issue is simply ignored,” he added.

The industry benefits from the different standard of living in Europe

In many places in Europe, care for the elderly and sick is still based on differences in pay between countries. And the demand is directed to increasingly poorer countries: “First there were women from the Czech Republic and Poland, then Romanians and Bulgarians, and now we are looking for staff from Moldova and Ukraine,” say industry experts.

We will enter the EU as Macedonians who speak Macedonian
We will enter the EU as Macedonians who speak Macedonian

This was stated by the Macedonian Deputy Prime Minister for European Affairs Nikola Dimitrov.

The Portuguese view is based on the negotiating framework proposed by the European Commission – the paragraph on the Macedonian language to remain as formulated – the Macedonian language and the envisaged unilateral (unilateral) manifestation of Bulgaria in one of their positions.

Regarding the statement of the Portuguese Secretary of State for European Affairs Ana Paula Zakaria, Dimitrov said that yesterday they had many contacts with Lisbon and with representatives of Portugal, ie. the Portuguese Presidency that, in his words, they had said that: “The statement absolutely does not reflect Lisbon’s position, which remains in line with the Portuguese proposal, and regret is expressed in this regard.”

We remind you that Anna Paula Zakaria stated that Portugal has understood the Bulgarian point of view on the dispute with RS Macedonia. Bulgaria cannot approve the non-fulfillment of the Neighborhood Agreement by RS Macedonia, the attempts to steal Bulgarian history, denial that the Macedonian language is based on Bulgarian and was drawn up in 1945 and therefore imposed a temporary veto at the beginning of RS EU negotiations Macedonia, but gave the green light to Albania.

“The issue of the Macedonian language is key for us,” Dimitrov said. Nor do we have a mandate to think about negotiations. We will enter Europe as Macedonians who speak Macedonian and we hold on to our right to defend our dignity regardless of any statements – today or in the future. For me personally, this was a rather unpleasant statement, said Dimitrov, answering news questions at today’s press conference dedicated to the National Program for Voting European Union Law.

Asked what the reaction to this statement would be, Dimitrov said that the public often has some kind of confusion regarding diplomatic reactions when we have such occasions.

Yesterday, on several levels, I spoke personally with Lisbon, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and also with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Buhar Osmani. What is important in diplomatic communication, Dimitrov asked. It is important to express your position clearly, to express dissatisfaction, to express protest. All this was done several times yesterday.

What we received was confirmed, among other things, by the brief statement of the Portuguese ambassador, who is not responsible for us in Belgrade, given, if the memory of Deutsche Welle did not deceive me last night. According to him, Portugal will never do anything that would harm finding a solution, remains firm in its proposal and does not intend to enter into a substantial debate on cultural issues, identity issues, etc.

He reiterated the government’s position that the Macedonian language is one of the main characteristics of the identity of the Macedonian people, internationally recognized and codified with its unique specifics and inscribed on the UN identity card of Northern Macedonia. The Macedonian language is an expression of the inalienable right of the Macedonian people to self-determination and dignity, according to Dimitrov.

According to him, there is a paragraph in the draft negotiating framework issued by the European Commission, according to which all European legislation will be translated into Macedonian and that the country will have to have a sufficient number of translators during membership. So far, we have translated about 80,000 pages of European legislation, translated another 16,000 pages and are working on several thousand new pages of translations, Dimitrov added.

We remind you that Bulgaria confirmed its position on the European perspective of Northern Macedonia during the regular meeting of the General Affairs Council in Luxembourg.

On June 11, 2021, after the last meeting of the Joint Multidisciplinary Expert Commission on Historical and Educational Issues with the Republic of Northern Macedonia, its chairman from the Bulgarian side, Prof. Angel Dimitrov, announced another failure. “The last hours have shown that it is difficult to reach an understanding for a text about Gotse Delchev,” said Angel Dimitrov.

In general, the negative findings of failure are repeated after each of the meetings, as the talks were interrupted before the elections in the Republic of Northern Macedonia, which took place last year. At the same time, both the ruling and the opposition in Northern Macedonia expressed a number of hopes that after the change of power in our country there would be a reversal of our position and the veto imposed by Bulgaria on the negotiating framework for EU membership of RNM and Albania.

At the same time, attempts at influence by a number of EU member states are increasing, with German Foreign Minister Heiko Maas speaking at a virtual meeting of the Berlin Foreign Minister.

Bulgarians – divided for the possible exchange of the lev with the euro
Bulgarians – divided for the possible exchange of the lev with the euro

According to a September Trend survey, 67 percent of people expect commodity prices to rise with the introduction of the euro. 59% of Bulgarians, on the other hand, believe that this will lead to lower incomes.

Still, most Bulgarians believe that the euro is a stable currency, and 27% define the single currency as the most stable of all. The data were quoted at the international conference “Bulgaria in the Eurozone – Opportunities and Challenges”.

3 months after Bulgaria’s entry into the Eurozone waiting room, opinions remain at both poles. According to experts, the earliest date for the lev to be replaced by the euro is 2024.

A small coffee and cigarette shop in Haskovo does not expect any shocks in the introduction of the euro. Customer fears are that if we put the other currency in our pockets, prices will not jump up. Whether it will raise the price of coffee, Georgi Daskalov will decide according to how much importers and suppliers sell it to.

“However, I think that the next 4 years will be quite interesting for our country and every Bulgarian should be very careful when it comes to his personal finances,” said Georgi Daskalov.

According to MEP Tsvetelina Penkova, this fear is unfounded: “The data show that prices are rising between 0.2 and 0.3%, with the highest increases observed in Italy – 0.6%. This is a minor risk that can be managed if we take action. “

The purchasing power of Bulgarians will not decrease, experts say. On the contrary.

“Growth, trade, investment, tourism and income will increase, there is not a single country in Central and Eastern Europe that has entered the eurozone and become impoverished, all are rich,” said Nikolai Vassilev.

From a social point of view – Bulgaria will have an interest in the euro only when our economy, productivity and income are comparable to European ones.

“If we just wait to adopt the euro and thus become somehow very rich – it will not happen – the euro alone will not make us rich,” said Ivaylo Kalfin.

“We need to get used to the idea that our membership in the Eurozone is not a new coffers for additional funds that will be poured into the country, but above all the responsibilities and new opportunities,” said Iliana Yotova, Vice President of the Republic of Bulgaria.

Ethiopia: In the shadow of the elections, Amharas are massacred in silence
Ethiopia: In the shadow of the elections, Amharas are massacred in silence

In the shadow of the national and regional elections and behind the smokescreen of the Tigray conflict, Amharas are victims of repeated massacres in total silence and impunity, several Amharas said at a press conference held on 16 June at the Press Club in Brussels.

Quite a number of such incidents already took place well before the war between the federal and the Tigray regional governments started but failed to sufficiently mobilize the international community. Examples:

In November 2019, 18 Amhara students – 14 young women and 4 young men – from Dembi Dollo University in Kelam Wellega Zone of the Oromia Region were abducted by unidentified people as they fled by bus a fatal ethnic-based attack on Amhara university students. They’re still missing, and we can fear the worst. This stoked anger at the federal government over its inaction and lack of transparency.  

Ethnic violence including rape then affected more than 20 other university campuses in 2019 in the Oromia region and continued in 2020 prompting an estimated 35,000 students to flee.

In early November 2020, at least 100 people from the Amhara ethnic group were killed in an attack by suspected members of the Oromo Liberation Front (OLF) group.

The attack on Gawa Qanqa village in Guliso District of West Wellega Zone took place just a day after Ethiopian Defense Forces troops surprisingly, unexpectedly & without explanation withdrew from the area. This abrupt withdrawal has raised several questions that have remained unanswered by the government. Witnesses said dozens of men, women and children were killed, property looted and what the militants could not carry away, was set on fire.

In the last few months, a spate of deadly attacks particularly targeted civilians of ethnic Amharas.

On 25 February 2021, at least 12 people, including a seven-year-old child, were hacked to death in two particularly brutal attacks in the villages of Boka and Nechlu, in the eastern part of Oromia, multiple sources told Al Jazeera. 

On 6 and 9 March, 42 people were killed in two separate attacks that targeted Amhara civilians in Oromia’s Horo Guduru Wellega zone, according to Ethiopian state media.

On 31 March, gunmen killed at least 30 civilians in an attack on a village in the West Wellega Zone of Oromia. The victims were ethnic Amharas. A resident of the Babo-Gembel district where the attack took place told AFP news agency that gunmen arrived after 9pm, forced residents to gather outside in a group and shot them dead. The place had no security cover from government security forces at the time.

On 4 April, suspected OLF militias killed more than 17 Amharas in two separate attacks in the Oromia region.

On 16 April, Ataye and surrounding towns in the Amhara Region were destroyed resulting in 300 deaths and 256,000 people becoming homeless.

On 30 April, an armed group identified as the OLA (Oromo Liberation Army) attacked a transport bus traveling from Bure to Nekemte. The attackers rerouted the bus towards the Abay river gorge, took the passengers out and killed 15 of them.

Tewodrose Tirfe, chairman of the Amhara Association of America based in Washington DC, said “in the month of March well over 300 Amharas, including women and children, have been massacred by the OLA”. He also accused the government of being silent and inactive on killings.

Amhara victims frequently testify the massacres on fighters belonging to the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA) and regional special forces that are well armed and coordinated.

Societal violence is now undoubtedly on the rise. President of the Genocide Prevention in Ethiopia (GPE) Dr. Senait Senay says, “From 2 September 2020 to May 2021 alone, 2024 ethnic Amharas were targeted and horrifically killed and 2 million displaced in different regions of Ethiopia”, mainly in the Benishangul-Gumuz & Oromia regions. The list also includes over 1000 ethnic Amharas that were murdered in Maikadra by a retreating pro-TPLF militia, a few days after the war between the federal government of Ethiopia and the regional Tigrayan forces broke out, as Amnesty International has reported. 

The successive federal governments of Ethiopia since the Ethiopian People’s Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF) assumed power in 1991, Ethiopia was transformed to nine new regional states designed according to Article 46 of the 1995 constitution, but the borders of the new regional states crisscrossed former administrative delineations and were simply imposed without popular consent through a referendum or election. The result was Ethiopian citizens were ethnically identified on government issued residence IDs.

The elections in Ethiopia will not be held in 102 of the 547 constituencies, including the 38 constituencies of Tigray due to war, but also in parts of Benishangul-Gumuz, Oromia and Amhara regions, due to the massacres and massive displacement of Amharas.

In the meantime, the EU has withdrawn its Electoral Observation Mission accusing the Ethiopian authorities of not giving assurances on the independence of the mission. After the election, the EU should increase the implementation of its peace-making policies & humanitarian aid in Ethiopia and urge the “new federal government” to address the structural sources of the targeted ethnic attacks, the Amharas said at the Press Club in Brussels.

See press conference here:

Ethiopia masacres
(c) AmharaGenocide.net – CASE_7: THE ACT OF GENOCIDE IN MAI-KADRA, NORTH ETHIOPIA
Ethnic Amharas were Selectively Slaughtered with Machetes, Axes and Knives!Posted on  Apr 6, 2021Happened on Nov 9, 2020
New social commitments after the Porto Summit Meeting
New social commitments after the Porto Summit Meeting

As part of the social commitment of the Social Summit in Porto, the partners have brought together around three headline targets for 2030, set out in the Commission’s Action Plan on the European Pillar of Social Rights. The participants in the meeting marked the following goals: At least 78% of people between the ages of 20 and 64 must be employed; At least 60% of all adults should take part in training each year; The number of people at risk of poverty or social exclusion should be reduced by at least 15 million people, including at least 5 million children.

The summit marks a key moment for social rights in Europe, as the social partners and civil society call on EU Heads of State and Government to support the action plan and its headline targets, as well as to set ambitious national targets that can adequately contribute to achieving European goals.

The EU Social Summit aims to strengthen the commitment of Member States, the European institutions, the social partners and civil society to the implementation of the Action Plan for the European Pillar of Social Rights.

EC President Ursula von der Leyen has put the European Pillar of Social Rights at the heart of the Commission’s action to ensure a fair and inclusive recovery.

The social summit and the informal meeting of EU leaders in Porto are taking place on two consecutive days. The Social Summit will take place today, focusing on the best way to implement the European Pillar of Social Rights.

Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa addressed the CoR’s plenary session last week, stressing the role of cities and regions as key partners in the success of Europe‘s fair, green and digital recovery.

EU leaders met in Porto on May 8th to agree on specific quantitative targets and deadlines for implementing the European Pillar of Social Rights, which was announced in 2017 in Gothenburg.

As stated in the Plan presented by the European Commission in March, the new headline targets assume that by 2030 at least 78% of people between the ages of 20 and 64 must be employed, at least 60% each year. of all adults should participate in training, and the number of people at risk of poverty or social exclusion should be reduced by at least 15 million.

The European Social Fund + will be one of the main instruments for the socio-economic recovery of the European Union from the pandemic caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The fund’s budget for the next programming period 2021-2027 will amount to 99.26 billion euros. The European Fund for the Most Deprived will be integrated into the ESF +. It will provide food and basic material assistance to the most vulnerable groups in society.

In their Strategic Agenda 2019-2024, EU leaders have underlined that the Pillar needs to be implemented, turning its principles into action at Union and Member State level with due regard for the respective competences. In its resolutions on a Strong Social Europe for Just Transitions and on the Child Guarantee, the European Parliament also strongly emphasised the need for a strong shared commitment to the materialisation of the Pillar rights and principles. In the debates developed by the European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions the relevance of the European Pillar of Social Rights Action Plan was stressed.

ESF + funds will support social innovation, the labor market and the most vulnerable in society. Support will be given to people who have lost their jobs or are counting on reduced incomes. The 2021-2027 Human Resources Development Program will receive nearly BGN 4 billion from the total ESF + budget. Special emphasis will be placed on measures aimed at young people who want to improve their skills or improve their education in order to find a better job.

The projects will stimulate lifelong learning, equal opportunities on the labor market and improve labor mobility. Over the next seven years, training will be provided to develop the skills needed for digital and green transitions.

Europe Day is also Dianetics Day
Europe Day is also Dianetics Day

Updated 9 May 2021

On May 9, 1950, there was the call for a “European community” to repair the devastation after World War II and what is known as the Schuman Declaration. He proposed the pooling of French and West German coal and steel industries, and which later led to the creation of the European Coal and Steel Community, the first European Community, established on 18 April 1951. This evolved into the European Union.

However, in addition to all these economic, political, and one could even say… geographic, this very May 9th 1950, on the other side of the world, occurred an unexpected event. The launching spanned beyond any type of politics or ideologies, and according to Scientologists “its final purpose has always been peace”. This event was the publication of a book which technique has influenced the life of millions and millions of people not just in Europe but around the world.

The Book

Its title is DIANETICS, which philosopher and World Guinness Record writer L. Ron Hubbard, piblished on May 9th 1950. And while it started covering how could one become in control of his/her own mind to achieve personal and social peace, it developed into a practical religion, Scientology, and the members of this recognized religion celebrate worldwide its publication [watch a short introduction in Scientology Network].

May 9th, most commonly known as “Europe Day”, is also known as “Dianetics Day”, and currently is also recognized by the Spanish government Foundation Pluralismo y Convivencia, as one of the religious festivities of the Scientologists. And this is why many European Scientologists say “Europe Day is also Dianetics Day”.

Dianetics introduction AD

This book launched by L Ron Hubbard on the power of thought and the human being began helping each person to spread a smile. Dianetics immediately became a bestseller at the New York Times. It contained unforeseen discoveries, and has remained a bestseller for more than 60 years. There are more than 22 million copies in the hands of the public, and has generated a movement that spans over 100 nations. It’s indisputably the most widely read and influential book ever written about the human mind. It covers the “anatomy and full description” of the reactive mind, the source of nightmares, unreasonable fears, upsets and insecurities which enslave citizens from all nations. Reportedly, this book shows you how to get rid of it, and so achieve something men and women have previously only dreamed of: the State of Clear. If you like reading, and want to explore your own boundaries, this is book Scientologists would recommend you more than any other.

In celebration of this 71st anniversary of Dianetics, the Fundacion para la Mejora de la Vida, and the European Office of the Church of Scientology for Public Affairs and Human Rights, located in Brussels, are organizing showings of introductory videos for people who want to either help themselves, their families, friends or society at large.

Find more about Europe Day at the official EU WEBSITE.

EU Commission designates new EU Special Envoy on Freedom of Religion: Christos Stylianides
EU Commission designates new EU Special Envoy on Freedom of Religion: Christos Stylianides
 The Bishops of the European Union welcome the appointment of Christos Stylianides as EU Special Envoy on the Promotion and Protection of Freedom of Religion or Belief Outside the EU. Cardinal Hollerich: “We wish him success in this important role of promoting a  fundamental right and a core value of the European Union threatened in many parts of the world  and we look forward to work closely together”.
The appointment of Mr Stylianides was made public on Wednesday 5 May 2021 by the Vice-President of the European Commission, Margaritis Schinas, who tweeted“Freedom of religion or belief is under attack in many parts of the world. The appointment of Stylianides […] shows we are determined to protect the rights of all faiths and beliefs”.

On behalf of all EU Bishops, H. Em. Cardinal Jean-Claude Hollerich SJ, President of the Commission of the Bishops’ Conferences of the European Union (COMECE), congratulates Mr Stylianides on his appointment as EU Special Envoy and “look forward to work closely together to promote the Fundamental Right of Freedom of Religion in all the world”. 

In a press release published by the COMECE, it is reported that “Since its creation in May 2016, and despite its limited  mandate and resources, the EU Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion or Belief made a remarkable work in addressing challenging situations in many countries where freedom of thought, conscience and religion is seriously threatened or violated. The positive contribution of the Special Envoy was also recognized by the European Parliament in its resolution of 15 January 2019. According to recent statistics, government restrictions and social hostilities involving religion have increased, and today many people live in fear of persecution and discrimination because of their beliefs, either religious or non-religious. The right to freedom of thought, or conscience, can also be seen as a “canary in the coal mine”: its violation is a reliable warning sign of infringement of many other fundamental rights. In these last years, COMECE has advocated to strengthen the EU mechanisms dedicated to promoting and protecting the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion in third countries. In May 2020, COMECE and the Conference of European Churches (CEC) addressed a letter to the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, encouraging the appointment of the Special Envoy, whose mandated ended in 2019.”
Regions request  support from the EU and demand to have a voice in Brussels, with “Sign it Europe”
Regions request support from the EU and demand to have a voice in Brussels, with “Sign it Europe”

“The initiative was started by the Seklers of Transylvania, though it concerns not only them but many other national regions of the EU”, says their website.

The minority regions of the European Union feel forgotten by the executive authorities. Aid from European funds overlooks these territories, whose linguistic, cultural, ethnic, and religious differences contribute to the diversity of the community. The Sign It Europe initiative aims to get the support needed for Brussels to support these regions financially.

The success and strength of the European Union is based on the union of its territories, including their different national, ethnic, cultural, religious or linguistic characteristics. While in the case of the major countries these differences are taken into account, the surrounding regions, which do not have administrative powers, are forgotten by the institutions on a daily basis.

The EU must ensure the proper economic development of these regions, preventing their economic backwardness, maintaining their development, and preserving the conditions for economic, social, and territorial cohesion. To this end, it must provide all territories with the same opportunities to access its funds, as well as caring for and preserving the specific characteristics of each people, maintaining the development of the EU and its cultural diversity.

PROTECT THE THOUSAND-YEAR-OLD MINORITY NATIONS OF THE EU!

www.signiteurope.com

The Sign It Europe initiative was created with the aim of helping European minority regions to access EU funds, preserving Europe’s ethnic diversity, and to establish a specific funding system for territorial development policy that is direct, exclusive and accessible to regional territories. A campaign of signatures with which to demonstrate in Brussels, the EU’s headquarters, the importance of this issue.

“The initiative is not about protecting minorities. We Europeans are a group of communities of people and nations living in different countries. We represent the majorities that make up each country, which has been able to maintain themselves over time. Now is the time to join the regional territories to have influence in Europe, it is the time to act. Our voices have to be heard in Brussels,” said the organization’s sources.

This campaign, which has a deadline of 7 November 2020, will enable the EU to actively contribute to supporting cultural and linguistic diversity, providing the necessary financial support to the different territories, for the full development of their own language, culture, folklore, and identity within their own country.

“By signing our Citizens’ Initiative you will help European nations to build and preserve the different cultures that make them up. If we succeed in reaching the required signature from EU countries, the European Commission will take the appropriate steps to implement this support. Together, with everyone’s support, we will achieve the conservation and preservation of the essence of Europe and all its territories,” they have said.

Visit www.signiteurope.com to sign the petition.

IMG 5399
Message of Charles Michel to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Srebrenica genocide
Message of Charles Michel to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Srebrenica genocide

Today we commemorate the 25th anniversary of the genocide in Srebrenica. We pay tribute to all the victims and their families. And to those who still have no confirmation of the fate of their loved ones. I am with you. Europe is with you. We will not rest until justice is served.

25 years ago, horrendous acts were committed in Srebrenica. Thousands of men and boys were brutally killed and buried in mass graves. Women, children and elderly were forced away, raped and abused. We remember and we honour the memory of all those who perished and who suffered in these atrocities.

All Europeans should be humbled, and furious, at what was allowed to happen in Srebrenica. It is one of the darkest chapters of modern European history. By remembering, we renew our commitment to never let such atrocities happen again.

Such despicable acts go against our deepest European values. A quarter of a century later, they are still shocking, still almost inconceivable. Yet even today, we continue to hear similar language that led to these shameful acts. Revisionists minimise, or even deny the genocide. Others glorify war criminals.

We have a unique responsibility to lead by example. Only when all leaders recognise the crimes that took place can the peoples of your country finally heal and come together. Both the European Union and the Western Balkans have shown enormous solidarity, consideration, and care for one another. That gives us reason for hope. Today, we condemn the genocide at Srebrenica. We must remain vigilant and challenge hatred and intolerance, in Europe, and in your country.

Now is the time to overcome the dark legacy of the past. The EU is the greatest peace and reconciliation project ever. From the ashes of World War Two, the Union has shown what can be achieved when peoples reconcile, and come together. We hope and trust to see you advance on your European path. Only when we learn from the past, can we build a better future for the generations to come. They deserve peace, justice and true reconciliation. In our common house – Europe.

ECR MEPs criticised new EU rules in transport sector as “harmful and double-dealing”
ECR MEPs criticised new EU rules in transport sector as “harmful and double-dealing”

As reported by the European Conservatives and Reformists, after the adoption of the EU Mobility package by the European Parliament without any amendments, ECR Transport coordinator Roberts Zīle MEP said:

“What is seemingly symbolically ironic, is that on the day when chancellor Merkel takes over the reigns of Council presidency, singing a rhapsody of solidarity, the newly approved road freight transport rules – originated from then French minister Macron – demonstrate a stark protectionism that will not only erode the integrity of the EU Single Market but furthermore exemplify division against higher and lower income Member States.

Zīle has continued saying: “Moreover, these rules, namely the compulsory return of the trucks to the Member State of establishment, will generate an enormous ecological burden crippling the whole Green Deal idea in its core. Sadly enough, even the coronavirus disturbances and health and safety risks had not stemmed the rules disbarring drivers to rest in their truck cabins, that would often provide much better health safety than poorly maintained ‘multi bed per room’ hostels.

Kosma Zlotowski, ECR´s co-shadow rapporteur, also criticised the new regulation as being “incompatible” with the spirit of “economic integration” and the single market’s principles:

“The Mobility Package is a clear example of economic protectionism. It discriminates against transport companies from countries such as Poland, Hungary, Bulgaria and the Baltic States. These rules go against the very freedoms, which includes services, on which the values and success of the European Union have been built. Sadly, the Mobility Package is a sign that this process is being abandoned. Of course, the fight is not over. Certainly, Member States will bring their complaints concerning these regulations to the European Court of Justice. Contrary to the intentions of the initiators of these changes, the costs of the Mobility Package will affect consumers across Europe and have a negative impact on the prices of all goods. In times of crisis brought about by the coronavirus epidemic, this could be a barrier to the swift recovery of the EU economy.”

EPP Group says there should be No EU money for countries breaching rule of law
EPP Group says there should be No EU money for countries breaching rule of law

EPP Group’s Tomáš Zdechovský MEP and Petri Sarvamaa MEP said that “Every Member State that wants to receive EU money must stick to the basic principles of democracy and the rule of law. There must be conditionality. The EU is not a cash machine for countries that disregard fundamental rules”.

The European Parliament will debate a draft law this afternoon which would cut EU funding for countries which threaten the EU’s financial interests by violating the rule of law. Funding, says the press release from the EPP, would be linked, amongst others, to the independence of national courts, the fight against corruption or the fairness of public procurement procedures. The law was proposed in May 2018, approved by Parliament in 2019 and has been blocked by EU Member States ever since.

As per their statements, the EPP Group sees this law as an essential part of the next long-term EU budget. “We were ready to start negotiations last year, but we never heard back from the Council. Instead, we read in the news that Council President Charles Michel plans to water down the plans. I say to the Member States: do not expect the Parliament to rubber stamp a fait accompli. Start the talks with us. Europeans all over the continent are waiting for us to act.” said Sarvamaa, who is negotiating the law on behalf of the Parliament.

“Living up to EU values is a strict condition for all countries when accessing the EU. This condition must also be applied to the later use of EU funds in Member States. If governments decide to disregard this condition by fiddling, for example, with the independence of media or judges, they must stop receiving EU funds”, said Zdechovský, who is the EPP Group’s Spokesman in Parliament’s Budgetary Control Committee

PES ministers for gender equality reaffirm women’s rights for a feminist and equal Europe
PES ministers for gender equality reaffirm women’s rights for a feminist and equal Europe

PES media room reports:

EU leaders must show a clear commitment to women’s rights and gender equality by creating a forum for intergovernmental exchange at the EU-level, progressive gender equality ministers agreed today.

The meeting focused on the importance of creating a truly gender mainstreamed EU recovery strategy, with the necessary funding and institutional structures to stop the backlash against gender equality and ease the burden on women in the wake of COVID-19.

PES Ministers from Germany, Portugal, Belgium, Malta and Luxembourg declared in the adopted text:

“This is the moment to put gender equality and women’s rights at the heart of the EU’s recovery strategy and to deliver bold and ambitious policies. The work of the European institutions is crucial in this process. While the European Parliament and the European Commission have enshrined gender equality as a key portfolio and priority, the EU still does not have a formal Council configuration for gender equality. We, the PES Ministers for gender equality and women’s rights, have the political will. We are asking the EU leaders to take their responsibility.”

The ministers, state secretaries, Commissioner for Equality Helena Dalli and other representatives of the progressive family convened at the invitation of PES Women President Zita Gurmai to mark the start of the German Council Presidency on 1 July.

In addition to the declaration, the participants discussed concrete initiatives to deliver on the EU Gender Equality Strategy and promote a feminist economy for Europe, including the upcoming Commission proposal for a pay transparency directive and the ‘Women on Boards’ directive.

PES Women President Zita Gurmai said:

“To combat threats to the rights of women and girls and to advance gender equality, we need strong leadership from national governments. The creation of a Council configuration for gender equality would show that the EU is taking gender equality seriously and is willing to put women’s rights at the heart of its recovery strategy. The COVID-19 crisis has shown the importance of prioritising women’s issues and mainstreaming gender equality in all EU policies, and a Council configuration is crucial for this. 

“The next few months will be vital for gender equality in Europe. I am looking forward to seeing a strong commitment to advancing gender equality during the German Council Presidency and ambitious initiatives spearheaded by Commissioner Dalli. Moreover, PES Women calls on all EU leaders to ensure a gender mainstreamed EU budget and recovery fund as soon as possible.”

At last month’s PES Presidency meeting, PES Women Vice-President Marja Bijl briefed the Presidency members on PES Women’s call for the creation of a formal Council configuration for gender equality.

The meeting was attended by:

  • Mariana Vieira da Silva, Minister of State for the Presidency (Portugal)
  • Rosianne Cutajar, Junior Minister for Equality and Reforms (Malta)
  • Juliane Seifert, State Secretary Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth (Germany)
  • Helena Dalli, European Commissioner for Equality (Malta)
  • Heléne Fritzon MEP, S&D Group Vice-President, responsible for Equality (Sweden)
  • Zita Gurmai, PES Women President (Hungary)
  • Marja Bijl, PES Women Vice-President (Netherlands)
CEPS and the EU FRA organize webinar on Racism during COVID19
CEPS and the EU FRA organize webinar on Racism during COVID19

The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on all aspects of European societies. The pandemic has not affected all population groups equally, as FRA’s regular bulletins on the fundamental rights implications of COVID-19 show. In particular, responses to COVID-19 have illustrated and exacerbated existing patterns of discrimination, prejudice and intolerance.

The rapid spread of massive protests and mobilisations internationally in response to the killing of George Perry Floyd during a police stop have underlined the urgent need to timely address institutionalised manifestations of racism and discrimination, also in the EU.

This Webinar, co-organised between CEPS and the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA), will highlight and critically explore some of these patterns, and discuss the significance of responses to the pandemic for fundamental rights and what this implies for EU and national policy makers, with particular attention to the necessity to properly implement fundamental rights protections in the EU.

KEYNOTE SPEAKER: Helena Dalli, Commissioner for Equality, European Commission
MODERATOR: Sergio Carrera, Senior Research Fellow and Head of Justice and Home Affairs Unit, CEPS
DISCUSSANTS: Michael O’Flaherty, Director of the European Union Fundamental Rights Agency (FRA) Dr. Pierrette Herzberger-Fofana, MEP, European Parliament Karen Taylor, Chair of Board of the European Network against Racism and Xenophobia, (ENAR) Dora Kostakopoulou, Member of the Scientific Committee FRA and Professor of European Law at the University of Warwick
EVENT DETAILS: Date: 03.07.2020, Friday Time: 13:00 – 14:30 (Brussels time, CET) The event will be hosted via Zoom. Open to all public. Once registered, the zoom link + password will be shared with you nearer to the event. Event page: HERE
Luk Zelderloo: We need stronger commitment by the EU to ensure resilience of Social Services
Luk Zelderloo: We need stronger commitment by the EU to ensure resilience of Social Services

by Press Release at the EU Brussels Press Club

On 25 June 2020, EASPD and the entire social services sector came together at European level to call the European Union to strengthen recognition, urgency and resilience in social services during the COVID-19 pandemic and the recovery. The Online Summit was also the opportunity for the sector to engage with high level European policy and thought leaders: the Vice President of the European Parliament Dimitrios Papadimoulis, the Vice President of the European Commission Dubravka Šuica, Member of European Parliament Dragoş Pîslaru and University Professor Frank Vandenbroucke.

Yesterday, the European Association of Service providers for Persons with Disabilities (EASPD) and 11 partners representing different dimensions to the social services sector at European level organized the Online Summit “Social Services & COVID19: what role for EU?,” viewed by over 2,000 people across different platforms.

Social Services is a sector employing over 11 million professionals, primarily in not-for-profit or public services, who provide care and support to millions of people with disabilities, older persons, children, people at risk of poverty and exclusion and many more.

In his welcoming remarks, the Vice President of the European Parliament, Dimitrios Papadimoulis highlighted the Parliament’s concern that COVID19 has exposed long-standing problems in care provision in the European Union and highlighted the possibility that the Recovery Plan for Europe, currently under negotiation, may make tens of billions of euros available for funding such initiatives.

The Vice President of the European Commission, Dubravka Suica, stated that “social services are under particular strain and the European Commission is committed to help”; listing their ongoing exchanges on how to best support the sector and the actions the European Union is taking in response to COVID19, including the Coronavirus Response Investment Initiative.

Professor Frank Vandenbroucke from the University of Amsterdam referred to how well organized social policy is an investment into the resilience of our societies and expressed how COVID is a stress test for social services, but also for the real significance of the European Pillar of Social Rights, agreed in 2017.

Speaking on behalf of a support provider for children with disabilities in Bulgaria, Maya Doneva, CEO of Karin Dom, argued that “as someone who is in charge of a local service provider, I would like the European institutions to show more guarantees and commitment that social services are essential to the EU”.

Dragos Pislaru, Member of the European Parliament expressed his belief that social services are the real heroes in the fight against COVID19 but also called more to be done to improve their resilience. MEP Pislaru referred to the €560 billion proposed by the European Commission in the Resilience and Recovery Facility as an extremely useful instrument to generate the social reforms needed, included to designate social services as essential.

Heather Roy, Secretary General of Eurodiaconia, expressed concerns that we have on the one hand a commitment to support social services by the European Union, yet also reduced or no additional funding in the main policy funds that the EU sees as relevant for social services; referring to the proposed cuts to European Social Fund+ in the next framework.

Presenting the recently agreed joint position by the entire social services sectorEASPD Secretary General, Luk Zelderloo, said  “The message from the sector is crystal clear: we need the European Union to strengthen the recognition, take urgent action and invest in resilience in social services. Alongside national and regional authorities, the EU must demonstrate real commitment and ensure its policies actually reach social service providers across the continent”.

EU FoRB Day – A call for the renewal of the mandate of the Special Envoy on Freedom of Religion or Belief outside of the European Union
EU FoRB Day – A call for the renewal of the mandate of the Special Envoy on Freedom of Religion or Belief outside of the European Union

By CSW’s Europe Liason Officer Alessandro Pecorari

Seven years ago, the EU Guidelines on freedom of religion or belief (FoRB) were adopted by the Foreign Affairs Council. Today, the FoRB community celebrates this informally as ‘EU FoRB Day’ and civil society take this opportunity to call for the renewal of the mandate of the Special Envoy.

This past April came and went with no decision by the Commission on the future of the mandate of the Special Envoy on Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB) outside the EU, which ended on 30 November 2019.

In January 2019, one of the last resolutions by the last EU Parliament was to lend its support to the renewal. The COVID-19 crisis notwithstanding, the Commission’s hesitation despite letters by MEPs and civil society calling for the renewal of the mandate, sends a signal to Europeans and the international community about its reticence to continue to promote this fundamental right.

Freedom of religion or belief is enshrined in Article 9 of the European Convention on Human Rights and Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It protects the right of individuals to practise the religion or belief of their choice, or none at all – a freedom which is under threat in many parts of the world.

Against this backdrop, the Special Envoy role matters a great deal.

The mandate has had time to show that it is an effective tool in the EU’s diplomatic arsenal. On this very day in 2013 the EU Member States approved the ‘EU Guidelines on the promotion and protection of freedom of religion or belief’ which provide the policy framework for the Special Envoy’s mandate and are  essential tools promoting FoRB in the EU’s external relations and in the EU’s international cooperation and development.  

Dr Figel has supported the implementation of these Guidelines, making 17 official country visits to a wide range of countries. Whilst in country, the Envoy would regularly engage with national authorities and institutions, civil society, human rights organisations, as well as religious leaders and communities.

Moreover, the Special Envoy has illustrated to governments how FoRB can be promoted and protected effectively through the EU’s external action, for example, Asia Bibi, who spent years on death row in Pakistan on unfounded charges of blasphemy, acknowledged the role of the Special Envoy in securing her freedom in her first public appearance following her release. Likewise, Czech national Petr Jašek, who was jailed alongside two Sudanese pastors,  also acknowledged Dr Figel’s role in securing his freedom.

Key to such success is the manner in which the EU Special Envoy is viewed as a neutral broker by many countries, which in turn has been critical in fostering dialogue among opposing actors. As a result, the European Commission had sent a strong signal to all international and multi-lateral partners about the efficacy and concrete results the Special Envoy yields for the EU and the wider international human rights-based approach. Not renewing the mandate would send mixed messages and forgo four years of constructive work.

Today, as the FoRB community commemorates the seven-year anniversary of the EU Guidelines on FoRB, the EU should honour this fruitful diplomatic post by renewing the mandate; it owes it to itself, Member States and to its founding fathers, whose principles of human dignity and common good are ever-relevant in the continual promotion of FoRB.

“It is time to move forward … beyond 2020” Donald Tusk on Eastern Partnership
“It is time to move forward … beyond 2020” Donald Tusk on Eastern Partnership

By Donald Tusk

The European Union maintains a strong commitment toward the Eastern Partnership; this is even more true for the EPP, which has been one of the major actors vis-à-vis the Eastern Partnership since its launch.

During the past decade, together with our partners, we have gone through important milestones: signing the Association Agreements (including Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Agreements with Ukraine, Georgia and Moldova); establishing visa-free regimes in Ukraine, Georgia and Moldova; concluding the Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership agreement with Armenia; deeper engagement with Belarus; increasing our economic ties; achieving progress in implementing 20 deliverables by 2020; advancing  reforms; facilitating people-to-people contacts.

The Eastern Partnership has come a long way since 2009. This framework has brought our eastern neighbours closer to European standards, recognised their aspirations and become a real power for change, democratisation and reform.

It has been a decade since the launch of the Eastern Partnership, almost two decades since the “Rose revolution” and the “Orange revolution”, and three decades since the collapse of the Soviet Union – it is time to move forward and to discuss our enhanced cooperation beyond 2020, and to set up long-term benchmarks. In light of Russia’s aggressive policy, the rising influence of China in the region and the security situation around our eastern borders, the EU needs to develop a clear strategy and a political vision for how to further engage with our partners.

The Eastern Partnership Summit is an opportunity to build on our achievements and to inject new dynamism into our relationships. In light of the upcoming summit in 2021, I would like to underline our main priorities:

  • Values – we underline our joint commitment to fundamental values and international law; to the principles upon which the EU was founded: notably those of peace, friendship, solidarity, responsibility, prosperity, freedom, democracy, non-discrimination of persons belonging to minorities, respect for diversity, rule of law and human dignity.
  • Ambitions  we continue to support strongly the European aspirations of Georgia, Ukraine and Moldova; this support is reflected in all previous EPP Eastern Partnership declarations and congress resolutions. We recognise these partners’ sovereign choices, ambitions and goals in their relations with the EU.
  • Deliverables  with each and every one of our partners, we have a concrete, specific agenda of very concrete measures and policies that can benefit citizens. Implementation of the identified milestones and targets helps to demonstrate the value of the Eastern Partnership both for partner countries and for EU Member States. The achievements of our partners should constitute a strong basis for further integration with the EU as well as bring our societies and economies together.
  • Differentiation – we need to further enrich the Eastern Partnership in line with the principles of differentiation, strict conditionality, joint ownership, joint responsibility and solidarity: the “more for more” and “less for less” principle. We support closer cooperation with EU associated countries – Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia, particularly – a tailor-made cooperation with more ambitious EU political and economic integration objectives in order to improve motivation for speeding up reforms.
  • Security – we need to increase cooperation between the EU, its Member States and select members in matters of security, intelligence, and defence. A new initiative – a security compact of the Eastern Partnership – is a good starting point for such a discussion.
  • Conflict resolution – we reiterate our support for territorial integrity within internationally recognised boarders; we condemn Russian aggression and annexation of Crimea and Russia’s occupation of Donbass, South Ossetia, Abkhazia and Transnistria; we reiterate our comprehensive support for the efforts and basic principles of the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs on the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict resolution.
  • Solidarity – we support our partners in difficult times: in this Covid-19 pandemic, the European Union is committed to solidarity with the citizens of Eastern Partnership countries, not only in word but also in action. As part of its global response to the coronavirus outbreak, the European Commission has mobilised an emergency support package of around 1 billion euros for Eastern Partnership countries.
  • Resilience – we must strengthen the resilience of our partners: to work towards resilient economies, environmental resilience, resilience against corruption and terrorism: to become more resilient against hybrid threats, cyberattacks, disinformation, propaganda, election meddling and third-country interference.
  • Citizens – we have to strengthen links between citizens, support increased mobility, avoid brain drain, promote inclusive education, invest in youth and support civil society.
  • Democratisation – we believe in democratisation rather than stabilisation; the EPP has been always determined to fight for democratic standards. Therefore, we call on all Eastern Partnership governments to assure free and fair elections, to support media freedom, to respect the rule of law, to stop politically motivated persecutions and to continue the fight against corruption.
  • Communication – we need to improve our communication: to ensure that EU support, engagement and policies are well promoted and explained to the citizens of Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine.