COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,update

 

Press material Friday, 12 April 2024

● Council of the EU   12/04/2024 11:10 | Press release | Industrial emissions: Council signs off on updated rules to better protect the environment   The Council today adopted the revised directive on industrial emissions (IED) and the regulation on the establishment of an industrial emissions portal (IEP), two complementary pieces of legislation aimed at regulating and monitoring the environmental impact of industrial activities. The new rules will offer better protection of human health and the environment by reducing harmful emissions from industrial installations, while promoting energy efficiency, a circular economy and decarbonisation.  They will also improve environmental data reporting by upgrading the existing European pollutant release and transfer register (E-PRTR) in order to establish a more comprehensive and integrated industrial emissions portal. Wider scope for less industrial emissions The industrial emissions directive is the main EU instrument regulating pollution from industrial installations including intensive livestock farms. Installations regulated by the already existing directive – including power plants, refineries and waste treatment – account for approximately 40% of greenhouse gas emissions and for 20% of pollutant emissions into air and water. In order to further reduce industrial emissions, the revised directive bring more large-scale intensive livestock farms, including pig and poultry farms, into its scope. Mining activities and large-scale manufacturing of batteries are also added into the scope of the directive: subject to a review by the Commission, the scope may be extended to industrial minerals as well. Less red tape through e-permits Permits are necessary for installations as these need to prove their compliance with the current rules on reducing industrial emissions, including appropriate measures and emission limit values.  The new directive will make the issuance of permitting more efficient and less burdensome, for instance by introducing an obligation for member states to establish an electronic permit system (e-permit) by 2035.  Effective enforcement and penalties Member states will establish effective, proportionate and dissuasive penalties in case of non-compliance with the directive. For serious infringements, operators may be required to pay penalties up to at least 3% of their annual Union turnover.  The directive also introduces the right for individuals whose health has been affected to claim compensation from those who infringe the directive. Information and public participation  The regulation formally adopted today establishes a new portal for more comprehensive and integrated information on industrial emissions, replacing the existing European Pollutant Release and Transfer Register (E-PRTR). With regard to the Green Deal’s zero pollution ambition, the new portal will enhance public access to information related to industrial emissions and facilitate public participation in environmental decision-making, including the identification of pollution sources.  Next steps The directive on industrial emissions will now be signed and published in the Official Journal of the EU. It will enter into force on the twentieth day following publication. Following that date, EU member states will have up to 22 months to incorporate the provisions of the directive into their national legislation. In 2028 (and every five years thereafter), the Commission will review and assess the implementation of the directive, taking into account emerging techniques. Additionally, by 2026, the Commission must assess how to best address the emissions generated from cattle farming and from agricultural products placed on the EU market. After its publication in the Official Journal of the EU, the regulation on the new industrial emissions portal will become binding and directly applicable in all member states from 2028. Background The European Green Deal called for revised EU measures against pollution from large industrial installations. During the Conference on the Future of Europe, European citizens expressed their support for the EU to tackle the pollution of water, soil and air and to reduce methane emissions. On 5 April 2022, the Commission submitted a proposal to review the industrial emissions directive – first adopted in 2010 – and the parallel and complementary proposal on amending the regulation on European Pollutant Release and Transfer Register – adopted in 2006. Negotiations between the two co-legislators on the final shape of the law started on 19 July. After three rounds of negotiations, a provisional agreement was reached on both legislative files on 28 November 2023.  Revised directive on industrial emissions Regulation on a new industrial emissions portal Voting results Industrial emissions: Council and Parliament agree on new rules to reduce harmful emissions from industry and improve public access to information (press release, 29 November 2023) Industrial emissions (background information) Zero pollution action plan (European Commission)

● Council of the EU   12/04/2024 18:45 | Press release | Sudan: Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union one year into the conflict   The EU is appalled by the unprecedented man-made calamity created by the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and their respective affiliated militias since 15 April 2023. One year into the conflict, the EU recalls its strong appeal on the warring parties for an immediate and durable ceasefire, as well as for the establishment of monitoring mechanisms. The magnitude of the conflict shows that silencing the guns is vital to put a halt to the destruction inflicted on the Sudanese people and the country. The EU continues to support regional and international mediation efforts, stressing the importance of coordination and coherence to bring peace to Sudan. Sudan is now the epicentre of the largest displacement crisis in the world, within Sudan and the neighbouring countries, especially affecting women and children. Millions are fleeing because of the horrific onslaught caused by the warring parties, including ethnic cleansing, indiscriminate bombardment, sexual and gender-based violence, human trafficking, arbitrary detention, forced recruitment and looting. Furthermore, the country is currently facing the worst hunger level ever recorded, affecting half of its total population, with a real risk of pushing millions into starvation during the upcoming lean season. The EU reminds the warring parties of their obligation under international humanitarian law to protect civilians. Denying access to food, healthcare and relief items is a clear violation of international law, which may constitute war crimes. The warring parties should honour their mutually agreed commitments in Jeddah to provide immediate, full, safe and unhindered access for life-saving humanitarian assistance, especially across frontlines and across borders. Life-saving deliveries and operations should be devoid from bureaucratic and administrative impediments. The EU applauds the bravery and commitment of local and international humanitarian workers, particularly local NGOs and Emergency Response Rooms. Substantial contributions from the EU and its Member States represented a third of the total humanitarian response in 2023. In order to respond to the increasing needs of the Sudanese people and to give Sudan the attention it deserves, France, Germany and the EU will co-chair an International Humanitarian Conference for Sudan and the neighbouring countries in Paris on 15 April. The EU will do its utmost, in working with international mechanisms, so that all responsible actors are identified and held accountable for the atrocities they have committed and continue to commit. The EU adopted a first set of restrictive measures and is ready to continue to use its tools in order to contribute to end the armed conflict, discourage obstruction of humanitarian assistance and halt the culture of impunity. The EU calls again on all states that are supplying arms and funds to the belligerents to cease their support immediately. The people of Sudan deserve freedom, peace and justice, which they have been aspiring to since their Revolution began in 2019. The EU reaffirms its steadfast support and solidarity with the Sudanese people in view of a better future.

Press material Friday, 12 April 2024

● European Council   12/04/2024 18:25 | Media advisory | Press briefing - Special European Council of 17 and 18 April 2024   The press briefing ahead of the European Council meeting of 17 and 18 April 2024 will take place on Tuesday 16 April 2024 at 16.00.  This briefing will be "off the record". The press briefing will take place in a hybrid format: EU accredited journalists will be able to participate and ask questions either in person at the Justus Lipsius press room or remotely. To attend the event remotely, please use this form to register and have the possibility to ask questions. Deadline for registration: Tuesday 16 April 2024 at 15.00 Further inst

Press material Friday, 12 April 2024

● Council of the EU   12/04/2024 15:28 | Press release | 7 October 2023 terrorist attacks in Israel: Council sanctions three entities over widespread sexual and gender-based violence   The Council decided today to list three entities under the EU Global Human Rights Sanctions Regime in view of their responsibilities in the brutal and indiscriminate terrorist attacks that occurred across Israel on 7 October 2023. The listed entities are the Al-Quds Brigades, the armed wing of the EU-designated terrorist organisation Palestinian Islamic Jihad; Nukhba Force, a special forces unit of the EU-designated terrorist organisation Hamas; and the Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas. With today’s listings, restrictive measures under the EU’s Global Human Rights Sanctions Regime now apply to 104 natural and legal persons and 26 entities from multiple countries. Those listed under the sanctions regime are subject to an asset freeze, and the provision of funds or economic resources, directly or indirectly, to them or for their benefit, is prohibited. Additionally, a travel ban to the EU applies to the natural persons listed. In its conclusions of 21-22 March 2024, the European Council recalled its previous conclusions condemning Hamas in the strongest possible terms for its brutal and indiscriminate terrorist attacks across Israel on 7 October 2023, recognising Israel’s right to defend itself in line with international law and international humanitarian law, and calling for the immediate release of all hostages without any precondition. The European Council stressed that hostages’ safety and well-being was of grave concern, and that Hamas and other armed groups must immediately grant humanitarian access to all remaining hostages. The European Council also called on the Council to accelerate work on the adoption of further relevant restrictive measures against Hamas. The relevant legal acts have been published in the Official Journal of the EU. Background On 7 December 2020, the Council adopted Decision (CFSP) 2020/1999 establishing a Global Human Rights Sanctions Regime which applies to acts such as genocide, crimes against humanity and other serious human rights violations or abuses (e.g. torture, slavery, extrajudicial killings, arbitrary arrests or detentions). The EU Global Human Rights Sanctions Regime underscores the Union’s determination to enhance its role in addressing serious human rights violations and abuses worldwide. Achieving the effective enjoyment of human rights by everyone is a strategic goal of the Union. Respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and human rights is a fundamental value of the Union and its common foreign and security policy. On 4 December 2023, the Council prolonged restrictive measures under the Global Human Rights Sanctions Regime until 8 December 2026. Council Decision (CFSP) 2024/1074 of 12 April 2024 amending Decision (CFSP) 2020/1999 concerning restrictive measures against serious human rights violations and abuses Council Implementing Regulation (EU) 2024/1073 of 12 April 2024 implementing Regulation (EU) 2020/1998 concerning restrictive measures against serious human rights violations and abuses Consolidated text: Council Decision (CFSP) 2020/1999 of 7 December 2020 concerning restrictive measures against serious human rights violations and abuses, 29 January 2024 European Council conclusions 21-22 March 2024

Meetings Friday, 12 April 2024

● Council of the EU   12/04/2024 14:43 | Meetings | Main results - Economic and Financial Affairs Council, 12 April 2024   The Council approved conclusions on the implementation of the Recovery and Resilience Facility. Ministers discussed the economic and financial impact of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. The Council approved the EU’s mandate for the G20 finance ministers and central bank governors meeting of 17-18 April 2024, and an EU statement for the International Monetary and Financial Committee.

Press material Friday, 12 April 2024

● Council of the EU   12/04/2024 14:21 | Press release | Tourist bus drivers: Council adopts new law to improve their working conditions   To improve road safety and working conditions for drivers providing occasional bus and coach services in Europe, today the Council adopted a revision of the 2006 rules on driving times and rest periods in the occasional passenger transport sector. We are proud to have achieved such a swift agreement with the Parliament on this important file. The new rules on minimum breaks and rests will ensure better working conditions for bus drivers and guarantee better services for tourist trips across Europe. Georges Gilkinet, Belgian minister for mobility The revised legislation consists of targeted amendments to the 2006 regulation aiming to introduce a certain well-defined flexibility, by way of derogation and at the driver’s discretion, into the provisions on breaks and rest periods for professional drivers engaged in occasional passenger transport, such as tour buses. The revised law therefore aims to better adapt this sector to its specific rhythm of work and to ensure a better service for passengers. However, it does not change in any way the maximum driving times or minimum rest periods for the professional drivers in question.

Press material Friday, 12 April 2024

● Council of the EU   12/04/2024 14:19 | Press release | EU-Central America: Council greenlights association agreement   The Council adopted today a decision to conclude the agreement establishing an association between the European Union and its member states, on the one hand, and Central America on the other.  This is the final step of the ratification process of the agreement, through which the EU and Central America commit to a close, long-term relationship in all main policy areas. It will allow the full implementation of the agreement on the first day of the month following the notification by the EU to the Central American counterparts. The full entry into force will give an important impetus to the bi-regional relations.  The agreement aims to strengthen and consolidate the relations between the parties through an association based on three mutually reinforcing and fundamental parts: political dialogue, cooperation and trade. Furthermore, it will: develop a privileged political partnership based on values, principles and common objectives, in particular the respect for and the promotion of democracy and human rights, sustainable development, good governance and the rule of law enhance bi-regional cooperation between the EU and Central America in all areas of common interest expand and diversify the parties’ bi-regional trade relation in conformity with the World Trade Organization (WTO) agreement and this agreement strengthen and deepen regional integration in areas of common interest reinforce good neighbourly relations and the principle of peaceful resolution of disputes maintain and develop the level of good governance, social, labour and environmental standards foster increased trade and investment among the parties.  Meanwhile, the trade pillar of the association agreement has played an important role in promoting trade and investment between Europe and Central America. It has been provisionally applied since 1 August 2013 with Honduras, Nicaragua and Panama, since 1 October 2013 with Costa Rica and El Salvador, and since 1 December 2013 with Guatemala.  This has made it easier and cheaper to commercialize products to and from Central America , as a result bilateral trade has significantly increased eliminated most import tariffs and improved access to government procurement and investment markets. It creates a more predictable environment for trade in Central America, with a mediation mechanism for non-tariff barriers and a bilateral dispute settlement mechanism. Furthermore, interaction with civil society under the trade and sustainable development chapter have proven fruitful to highlight broader benefits of the agreement. In addition, the agreement will also provide a strengthened enabling framework for the implementation of the EU's Global Gateway investment strategy, supporting infrastructure and improving global and regional connectivity in the digital, climate, transport, health, energy and education sectors. On 29 June 2012 the EU and the Central American states (Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua and Panama), signed the agreement in Tegucigalpa, Honduras. The European Parliament gave its consent on 11 December 2012, and on 17 January 2024, the ratification procedures of the association agreement by member states were finalised. Association agreement EU trade relations with Central America. Facts, figures and latest developments (European Commission)

Press material Friday, 12 April 2024

● Council of the EU   12/04/2024 14:16 | Press release | Council adopts €1 billion macro-financial assistance to Egypt   The EU will provide €1 billion of urgent short-term macro-financial assistance to Egypt to help stabilise its economy.  The aid is meant to address the deteriorating macro-fiscal situation and financing needs of the country over the recent months, notably after the outbreak of the Gaza war, the Houthi attacks in the Red Sea and the repercussions of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine.  The €1 billion of short term assistance is part of a package of two proposals to provide macro-financial assistance to Egypt. The second part of the operation, still to be adopted, would provide € 4 billion over the period 2024-2027.  The overall macro-financial assistance accompanies a revamped support programme concluded with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), of up to € 8 billion, which will be made available provided several conditions are met.  The macro-financial assistance will be provided in the form of loans made available in one instalment. A precondition for granting the assistance is that Egypt continues to make concrete and credible steps towards respecting effective democratic mechanisms (including a multi-party parliamentary system) and the rule of law and guaranteeing respect for human rights. Next steps The decision will enter into force on the day following that of its publication in the Official Journal of the EU. Background On 15 March 2024, the Commission proposed a macro-financial assistance operation to Egypt for an overall amount of € 5 billion in loans, following the request of Egypt on 12 March 2024. The proposed macro-financial assistance would provide € 1 billion in the short-term and € 4 billion over the period 2024-2027. The differentiated approach aims to make it possible to disburse the first part of the aid before the end of 2024, to respond to Egypt’s urgent financing needs.  In accordance with the Financial Regulation, the loans would be provisioned in the EU budget at a rate of 9 % (€ 90 million)  under the Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument – Global Europe (NDICI – Global Europe). The European Union and Egypt (EEAS)

Press material Friday, 12 April 2024

● Council of the EU   12/04/2024 14:15 | Press release | Recovery fund: Council approves conclusions on the mid-term evaluation of the Recovery and Resilience Facility   The Council today approved conclusions on the mid-term evaluation of the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF).  In its conclusions the Council recognises the positive contribution of the RRF to the green and digital transitions and other EU priorities, and notes the incentive to implement the country-specific recommendations (CSRs), notably through an acceleration of structural reforms. The Council welcomes that the RRF aims at strengthening national ownership and that the focus of the instrument is on delivery and implementation. The Council agrees that the report comes too early to be able to deliver a fully-fledged impact evaluation of the RRF and looks forward to the final evaluation of the RRF, scheduled in 2028, to assess its full impact.  The Council invites the Commission and the member states to identify concrete ways to streamline and improve the implementation of the facility and the recovery and resilience plans, while ensuring the adequate protection of the financial interests of the Union. The Council invites the Commission to continue to draw lessons from the implementation of the performance-based nature of this instrument. It underlines that the swift completion of investments and reforms by August 2026 remains key for achieving the full implementation of the facility.  Background The Commission presented a mid-term evaluation of the RRF on 21 February 2024, taking stock of progress achieved in implementing the facility. The mid-term evaluation is a requirement under the RRF Regulation and will be followed by an 'ex post evaluation' in 2028, with a global assessment of the facility and its impact, once the measures included in the recovery plans are fully implemented. The recovery and resilience facility (RRF) is the EU’s programme of large-scale financial support in response to the challenges the pandemic has posed to the European economy. It is the centrepiece of NextGenerationEU, a temporary recovery instrument that allows the Commission to raise funds to help repair the immediate economic and social damage caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. To benefit from the facility, member states have submitted recovery and resilience plans (RRPs) to the Commission, setting out the reforms and investments they intend to implement by the end of 2026. So far, €648 billion have been committed to this end. Council conclusions on the midterm evaluation of the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF) Commission mid-term evaluation of the RRF A recovery plan for Europe (background information)

Press material Friday, 12 April 2024

● Council of the EU   12/04/2024 13:13 | Press release | The Gambia: visa fees down to normal level   Today the Council decided that the visa fee for nationals of The Gambia who wish to travel to the Schengen area will be reduced from €120 to the standard visa application fee of €80.    Because of a lack of cooperation of The Gambia as regards readmission of its nationals illegally staying in the EU, the Council had decided in December 2022 to increase the standard application fee for nationals of The Gambia to €120. Since then, The Gambia has substantially and sustainably improved its cooperation on readmission as regards the organisation of return flights and operations. Background The EU visa code of 2019 introduced a mechanism which makes it possible to use visa processing as leverage in the EU’s cooperation with third countries on readmissions.  Because of a lack of cooperation on readmission, the EU decided in 2021 to temporarily suspend for nationals of The Gambia the possibility that member states waive requirements with regard to the documents to be submitted by Gambian visa applicants the limitation of the processing period to 15 calendar days the issuing of multiple entry visas the optional visa fee waiver for holders of diplomatic and service passports In a second step, because cooperation on readmissions had not improved, the EU increased in December 2022 the visa fee. This second decision has now been repealed. EU visa policy (background information)

Press material Friday, 12 April 2024

● Council of the EU   12/04/2024 13:12 | Press release | Council adopts €1 billion macro-financial assistance to Egypt   The EU will provide €1 billion of urgent short-term macro-financial assistance to Egypt to help stabilise its economy.  The aid is meant to address the deteriorating macro-fiscal situation and financing needs of the country over the recent months, notably after the outbreak of the Gaza war, the Houthi attacks in the Red Sea and the repercussions of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine.  The €1 billion of short term assistance is part of a package of two proposals to provide macro-financial assistance to Egypt. The second part of the operation, still to be adopted, would provide € 4 billion over the period 2024-2027.  The overall macro-financial assistance accompanies a revamped support programme concluded with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), of up to € 8 billion, which will be made available provided several conditions are met.  The macro-financial assistance will be provided in the form of loans made available in one instalment. A precondition for granting the assistance is that Egypt continues to make concrete and credible steps towards respecting effective democratic mechanisms (including a multi-party parliamentary system) and the rule of law and guaranteeing respect for human rights. Next steps The decision will enter into force on the day following that of its publication in the Official Journal of the EU. Background On 15 March 2024, the Commission proposed a macro-financial assistance operation to Egypt for an overall amount of € 5 billion in loans, following the request of Egypt on 12 March 2024. The proposed macro-financial assistance would provide € 1 billion in the short-term and € 4 billion over the period 2024-2027. The differentiated approach aims to make it possible to disburse the first part of the aid before the end of 2024, to respond to Egypt’s urgent financing needs.  In accordance with the Financial Regulation, the loans would be provisioned in the EU budget at a rate of 9 % (€ 90 million)  under the Neighbourhood, Development and International Cooperation Instrument – Global Europe (NDICI – Global Europe). The European Union and Egypt (EEAS)

Press material Friday, 12 April 2024

● Council of the EU   12/04/2024 13:03 | Press release | Euro 7: Council adopts new rules on emission limits for cars, vans and trucks   The Council has today adopted the Euro 7 regulation, which lays down rules on emission limits for road vehicles and battery durability. This is the last step in the decision-making procedure. The text adopted today covers cars, vans and heavy-duty vehicles in one single legal act and aims to further lower air pollutant emissions from exhaust fumes and brakes. The new regulation also establishes stricter lifetime requirements. Better and cleaner vehicles The Euro 7 regulation establishes rules for the exhaust emissions of road vehicles, but also for other types of emissions such as tyre abrasion and brake particle emissions. It also introduces requirements for battery durability. For cars and vans, the regulation keeps the existing Euro 6 exhaust emission limits but introduces stricter requirements for solid particles. For heavy-duty buses and lorries, the regulation imposes more stringent limits for various pollutants, including some that have not been regulated until now, such as nitrous oxide (N2O). In addition, Euro 7 introduces stricter limits for particle emissions produced when braking, with specific limits for electric vehicles. The new rules also include stricter lifetime requirements for all vehicles in terms of both mileage and lifetime. Next steps Following the Council’s approval today of the European Parliament's position, the legislative act has been adopted. After being signed by the President of the European Parliament and the President of the Council, the regulation will be published in the Official Journal of the European Union and will enter into force on the twentieth day following its publication. The dates of application of the regulation will depend on the kind of vehicle concerned: 30 months for new types of cars and vans, and 42 months for new cars and vans 48 months for new types of buses, trucks and trailers, and 60 months for new buses, lorries and trailers 30 months for new systems, components or separate technical units to be fitted in cars and vans, and 48 months for those to be fitted in buses, lorries and trailers Background The Euro 7 regulation, which is part of the Commission’s 2020 Sustainable and Smart Mobility Strategy and the 2021 Zero-Pollution Action Plan, was presented by the Commission on 10 November 2022. The Council adopted its position, or ‘general approach’, on 25 September 2023. The Council and the Parliament reached a provisional political agreement on 18 December 2023. On 19 April 2023 the European Parliament and the Council adopted Regulation (EU) 2023/851 to strengthen the CO2 emission performance standards for new passenger cars and new light commercial vehicles, which sets a 100% reduction target for both cars and vans from 2035 onwards. While industry prepares for this change, which means that new combustion cars and vans will be banned on the internal market from 2035, such vehicles will remain available. Other internal combustion vehicles (lorries, buses and other heavy-duty vehicles) will continue to be produced after that date. The Euro 7 rules will be necessary to cover the emissions of cars and vans until that date, while other rules contained in the regulation (concerning brakes, tyres and battery life, for instance) will continue to apply to new cleaner cars and vans after 2035. Commission Proposal Council’s general approach Outcome of the final trilogue Clean and sustainable mobility (background information)

Press material Friday, 12 April 2024

● Council of the EU   12/04/2024 12:21 | Press release | Legal migration: Council gives green light to single work and stay permit for non-EU nationals   Today, the Council adopted a revision of the Single Permit Directive. The law, which updates the 2011 directive currently in place, aims to attract the skills and talent the EU needs and to address shortcomings as regards legal migration to the EU. The directive sets out the administrative procedure for a single permit for both the right to work and the right to stay in the EU and determines a common set of rights for third-country workers. The revision provides for a shortened application procedure and aims to strengthen the rights of third-country workers by allowing a change of employer and a limited period of unemployment.  Application procedure A third-country worker can submit an application from the territory of a third-country or, if he or she is a holder of a valid residence permit, from within the EU. If a member state decides to issue the single permit, this decision will serve as both residence permit and work permit.  Duration of the procedure The revised Single Permit Directive comes with stricter deadlines for the decision to issue a permit. This should happen within three months of receipt of the completed application. If member states choose to check the labour market situation before deciding whether to grant the single permit – for instance to assess the need for a third-country worker's profile – this should also take place during this 90-day period. The time limit for a decision may exceptionally be extended for an additional 30 days in cases of complex applications. Change of employer A novelty of the review is that single permit holders will be able to change employer. Such a change may be subject to notification to the authorities, and member states may carry out a labour-market check. EU countries may also require a minimum period during which the single permit holder is required to work for the first employer.  Unemployment The update also establishes rules applicable if a single permit holder becomes unemployed. In such cases third-country workers are allowed to remain in the territory of the member state if the total period of unemployment does not exceed three months during the validity of the single permit or six months after two years of the permit. Next steps The directive will enter into force on the twentieth day following that of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union. Member states have two years to transpose the directive into national law. How the EU manages migration flows (background information) Directive on a single application procedure for a single permit for third-country nationals to work and reside in the EU, 3 April 2024

Press material Friday, 12 April 2024

● Council of the EU   12/04/2024 12:26 | Press release | Council gives final approval to introduce criminal offences and penalties for EU sanctions’ violation   Today the Council adopted a law covering EU-wide minimum rules for the prosecution of violation or circumvention of EU sanctions in member states. Certain actions will now be considered criminal offences in all member states, for example helping to bypass a travel ban, trading in sanctioned goods or performing prohibited financial activities. Inciting, aiding and abetting these offences can also be penalised.  Main elements  Member states must ensure that violating EU sanctions is punishable by effective and proportionate criminal penalties, which vary depending on the offence. However, intentional violation of sanctions must give rise to a prison sentence as the maximum penalty. Those who have violated EU restrictive measures may additionally be subject to fines. Legal persons (i.e. companies) can also be held liable when an offence has been committed by a person with a leading position in the organisation. In such cases, sanctions may include the disqualification of business activities and the withdrawal of permits and authorisations to pursue economic activities. Next steps The directive will enter into force on the twentieth day following publication in the Official Journal of the EU. Member states will have 12 months to incorporate the provisions of the directive into their national legislation.  Background Restrictive measures are an important instrument in the EU’s foreign and security policy. Member states are responsible for their enforcement, which is why penalties can range from criminal prosecution to administrative sanctions depending on the country.  The Commission proposed the present directive in December 2022 in order to limit sanctions circumvention and tighten enforcement. As a response to the Russian aggression against Ukraine, the EU has adopted an unprecedented number of restrictive measures in order to weaken Russia's economic base and curtail its ability to wage war.  Council and Parliament reach political agreement to criminalise violation of EU sanctions (press release, 12 December 2023) Directive on the definition of criminal offences and penalties for the violation of EU restrictive measures, 3 April 2024 How and when the EU adopts sanctions (background information) EU response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine (background information)

Press material Friday, 12 April 2024

● Council of the EU   12/04/2024 11:15 | Press release | Organised crime: Council gives green light for EU law on asset recovery and confiscation   The Council today adopted a law which sets out EU-wide minimum rules on the tracing, identification, freezing, confiscation and management of criminal property in connection with a wide range of crimes.  The directive will better equip member states in their fight against organised crime and the associated illegal profits. It will also oblige EU countries to ensure that authorities have the resources they need for their activities. The rules will also apply to violation of sanctions. Freezing and confiscation  Member states will need to enable the freezing of property and, in the event of a final conviction, the confiscation of instrumentalities and proceeds stemming from a criminal offence. In addition, they will have to adopt rules allowing them to confiscate property of a value corresponding to the proceeds of a crime.  Where criminal assets or property of equal value are transferred to a third party, it must also be possible to confiscate them if the third party knew or should have known that the purpose of the transfer or acquisition was to avoid confiscation. The new rules will also enable member states to confiscate unexplained wealth; where such property is linked to conduct committed through a criminal organisation and generates substantial economic benefit.  Asset recovery and management offices Asset recovery offices, in charge of cross-border cooperation, will be reinforced. They will support national authorities and the European Public Prosecutor’s Office in asset tracing investigations. Offices will be given access to relevant databases and registers to perform these tasks.  Asset management offices will be designated by member states and will manage frozen or confiscated property directly or will provide support to other competent bodies. The new law also provides for the sale of frozen property, under certain conditions and even prior to final confiscation, for instance if it is perishable.  Next steps The directive will enter into force on the twentieth day following publication in the Official Journal of the EU. Member states will have 30 months to incorporate the provisions of the directive into their national legislation. Background According to Europol data, criminal organisations are amassing revenue estimated to amount to at least €139 billion every year. Council and European Parliament agree on rules on freezing and confiscating criminal money (press release, 12 December 2023) Directive on asset recovery and confiscation, 3 April 2024 The EU's fight against organised crime (background information)

Press material Friday, 12 April 2024

● Council of the EU   12/04/2024 11:11 | Press release | Towards zero-emission buildings by 2050: Council adopts rules to improve energy performance   The Council formally adopted today a revised directive on the energy performance of buildings. The directive will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and energy poverty in the EU. Zero-emission buildings by 2050 Currently, buildings account for over one third of greenhouse gas emissions in the EU. Under the new rules, by 2030 all new buildings should be zero-emission buildings, and by 2050 the EU’s building stock should be transformed into zero-emission building stock. Minimum energy performance standards For non-residential buildings, the revised directive introduces minimum energy performance standards ensuring that such buildings do not exceed the specified maximum amount of primary or final energy that they can use per m2 annually. According to the new rules, in 2030 all non-residential buildings will be above the 16% worst performing buildings and by 2033 above the 26% worst performing buildings in terms of energy performance. This will lead to a gradual phase-out of the worst performing non-residential buildings. Member states can choose to exempt specific buildings from the rules, such as historical buildings, places of worship or buildings owned by the armed forces. Trajectories for progressive renovation Member states will also make sure that the average primary energy use of residential buildings will be reduced by 16% in 2030 and by 20-22% in 2035. At least 55% of the energy reduction will be achieved through renovation of the 43% worst performing residential buildings. In their renovation efforts, member states will put in place technical assistance and financial support measures, with a focus on vulnerable households. Phasing out the use of fossil fuels in buildings In order to decarbonise the building sector, national building renovation plans will include a roadmap with a view to phase out fossil fuel boilers by 2040. Solar energy and sustainable mobility The new rules will ensure the deployment of suitable solar energy installations in new buildings, public buildings and existing non-residential ones under renovation that requires a permit. They will also provide for sustainable mobility infrastructure, including recharging points for electric cars in or next to buildings, pre-cabling or ducting to accommodate future infrastructure and parking spaces for bicycles. Next steps The directive will now be signed and published in the Official Journal of the EU. Member states will have two years in which to incorporate the provisions of the directive into their national legislation. The Commission will review the directive by 2028, in the light of the experience gained and progress made during its implementation. Background The Commission submitted to the European Parliament and the Council a proposal for a recast of the directive on energy performance of buildings on 15 December 2021. The directive forms part of the ‘Fit for 55’ package, setting the vision for achieving a zero-emission buildings stock by 2050. The existing directive, last revised in 2018, lays down minimum requirements for the energy performance of new buildings and of existing buildings that are being renovated. It establishes a methodology for calculating the integrated energy performance of buildings and introduces an energy performance certification for buildings. The revised directive is key for delivering on the ‘energy efficiency first’ principle as highlighted in the Renovation Wave Strategy, which was published by the European Commission in October 2020. Revised directive on the energy performance of buildings Meeting voting results ‘Fit for 55’: Council and Parliament reach deal on proposal to revise energy performance of buildings directive (press release, 7 December 2023) ‘Fit for 55’ package (background information) Renovation Wave Strategy (European Commission)

Press material Friday, 12 April 2024

● Council of the EU   12/04/2024 11:07 | Press release | Council agrees to increase EU’s shares in European Bank for Reconstruction and Development   The Council today adopted a decision increasing the EU’s shares in the capital of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD).  This capital increase should ensure the Bank's support for resilience and reconstruction in Ukraine beyond 2023 and the continued support in all of its countries of operation. The EU will subscribe to 12 102 additional shares of €10 000 each before 30 July 2025. By then, the Board of Directors of the EBRD may postpone the date of subscription to the 31 December 2025 at the latest. The subscription will be paid in five equal yearly instalments.  The decision will extend the geographic scope of EBRD operations to sub-Saharan Africa and Iraq in a limited and incremental manner.  In addition, the decision will remove the statutory capital limitation on ordinary operations in order to entrust the EBRD Board of Directors to establish and maintain any appropriate limits with respect to capital adequacy metrics. Next steps The decision will enter into force on the third day after its publication in the Official Journal of the EU. Background On 15 December 2023, the Board of Governors of the EBRD decided to increase the authorised capital stock of the EBRD by € 4 billion in order to maintain enough capital to sustain a reasonable level of activity in the EBRD countries of operation within statutory limits. The authorised capital stock of the EBRD increased by 400 000 paid-in shares, and EBRD members can subscribe to a number of whole shares, pro rata to their existing shareholding. Prior to that capital increase, the EU held 90 044 shares, each share having a par value of € 10 000. On 22 January 2024, the Commission submitted to the Council and the European Parliament a proposal for the EU to subscribe to 12 102 additional shares of €10 000 in the capital of the EBRD. The Commission requested the European Parliament and the Council to apply the urgency procedure for this file. The European Parliament adopted the text without modifying the substance of the proposal on 14 March 2024 and the Council adopted the same text, thus closing the adoption procedure.  Decision concerning the subscription by the European Union to additional shares in the capital of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD)