The European Commission has tabled a proposal for a new emergency macro-financial assistance (MFA) programme for Ukraine of up to €1.2 billion. This proposal follows an earlier request from the Ukrainian authorities and direct discussions between Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. MFA funds will be made available to Ukraine in the […]
Pegasus and data protection under debate at the UN and European Parliament
Exchange of views on Pegasus spyware in the European Parliament The Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs will continue its scrutiny and follow-up on the revelations of the existence and use of the spyware ‘Pegasus’ created by the cyber-surveillance company NSO Group, on 1 February. The Members will hear from victims of the […]
Spain is in breach of EU law on asset declarations
The restrictions on the free movement of capital imposed by that legislation are disproportionate. On the 15 February 2017, the Commission issued a reasoned opinion in which it found that certain aspects of the requirement for Spanish tax residents to declare overseas assets or rights 1 by means of a form entitled ‘Form 720’ were […]
What is the future of rural areas?
The European Commission’s long-term vision for the future of rural areas is a promising start but making it a reality will require political will from every level of government, stakeholders and citizens alike, the European Committee of the Regions warned on Wednesday. Rural areas account for almost 30% of the EU population and 80% […]
EU proposes new rules for clinical trials
As of January 31, the evaluation and monitoring processes for clinical trials began to be harmonized throughout the EU, especially through the Clinical Trials Information System, managed by the European Medicines Agency. On this date, the Clinical Trials Regulation will enter into force, which will improve the way clinical trials are conducted in the EU, […]