Forwards. At a time when the European Union is about to embark on one of its toughest summits - dedicated to the financial means for the seven year period 2014-2020 - I think it's worth resuming some of the ongoing progress. Let me not do this by going on a search for long term projects or hypothetical ambitions, but quite simply by mentioning some of the news published in EUROPE 10733.
At the moment, when the general tendency is to stress that the EU is going through the most serious crisis in its history, just one of our editions of EUROPE is enough to raise awareness of the positive recent developments, resumed below.
European patent. An agreement has been defined between the member states to overcome the blockage of this element which is essential for the functioning of the single market - a blockage that has existed at Community level for several years. The European Parliament has to give its agreement.
Fisheries. Small-scale fishing has made itself heard in Brussels. Our readers will be aware that the common fisheries policy is - in my opinion - badly conceived and harmful to the natural balance, the sea, nature, respect for animals and therefore human dignity. The document of the small-scale fishing representatives - which was reported on in detail in EUROPE 10733 - is eloquent and able to contribute to amending a policy that is unbalanced and cruel. The subject is perhaps too specific to attract all our readers - but the summary we published will allow them to recall the links of ancient civilisations with the sea and its inhabitants - from dolphins to mythic sirens.
Genetically modified organisms (GMOs). A group of MEPs has re-opened the red hot file on the assessment of GMOs by EFSA - the European authority that is competent to assess the risks. Without returning to the specific case that has created so much controversy and that is still not entirely clarified, EUROPE pointed out that the MEPs are demanding an improvement in the current procedures so as to reassure citizens about food safety. The file has been re-opened and we are all involved.
Fighting violence against women. An official European instrument to fight all violence against women - including within their families - will be introduced and will accompany the polemics on a better gender balance in Community organisms. Let's not forget that they vote, like men, and that they are more numerous. At the political level they can therefore take action - but defending their rights and freedom in everyday life is sometimes more arduous and indeed more useful. We have reported on the initiatives of the European Parliament on this.
Progress on accession. An accession candidate country - Macedonia (officially called FYROM because Greece demands exclusivity of the name Macedonia for one of its regions) - has made a significant step towards freedom of the press and information. This is an indispensable step for all countries that aspire to join the EU. Once again, the EU means respect for freedom.
Necessary monitoring. The authorities of several member states are trying to discipline the gaming and online gambling sector. For several readers this subject is frivolous - but I belong to the category of those who consider a restrictive regulation as important, given the number of people (especially young people) who spend whole days tempting their luck before sometimes ending up in financial ruin.
Partly positive image. Let me state again that everything that goes before does not represent an analysis of the current situation and even less so a scholarly essay, but just a succinct summary of the news that Agence Europe published on just one day. It proves the vitality of European construction.
Understandable attitudes. It is not necessary to dramatise the very firm positions of each member state on one or other aspect of the overall negotiation that will open this Thursday - each is trying to strengthen its position, while being aware that compromise is crucial. I consider that the fact of discussing the EU's financial allocation for a seven year period is in itself a sign of confidence. Each country will fight to defend its budgetary interests and the continuity of the common policies that interest it - that's understandable.
But the divergences don't eliminate the future - in the meantime, the construction of Europe progresses. Let it be understood, however, that the way out is open for those who want to take their distance.
(FR/transl.fl)