1. SERVICES
2. SOCIAL PROTECTION POLICIES
3. NON DISCRIMINATION
4. ACCESSIBILITY
5. INFORMATION SOCIETY
6. EUROPEAN FINANCING
7. PARTICIPATION IN CONSULTATION PROCESSES
8. EMPLOYMENT AND SOCIAL AFFAIRS
9. EUROPEAN INSTITUTIONS
Back to Contents
1. SERVICES
1.1 Postal services
BACKGROUND
During this period, draft opinions from all Parliamentary
committees on this issue have been debated and prepared.
During the Transport Committee held in March, most MEPs expressed their
support for the recognition of the importance to guarantee universal service
in the whole of Europe. The debate focused mainly on the liberalization of
this universal service and on the difficulties faced to carry out the complete
liberalization, the calendar for the opening of the sector to competition and
the consequences of this liberalization on the labour market.
One of the recurring issues was the financing of this universal service, where
no agreement seems to have been reached for the time being.
Some MEPs, such as Eric Meijer (GUE, The Netherlands) with whom some EBU
national members met, objected openly to the liberalization planned for 2009.
He mentioned the importance to take into account the example of countries such
as Spain and the need to guarantee services rendered to people with visual
disability or other disabilities.
All Parliamentary committees' draft reports were published on 16 March, as
well as the ones that we already knew.
It is worth mentioning the following:
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Parliamentary Committee on Employment and Social Affairs:
Speaker Stephen Hughes (PSE, U.K., member of the Disability Intergroup), has
not introduced in his draft opinion any amendment to Article 12 that deals
with the issue of free services for blind or partially sighted people.
Parliamentary Committee on Industry:
The same comments may be applied. The draft opinion does not include any
amendment in this sense.
Parliamentary Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs:
This draft opinion does not modify either the topic of free postal services
for people with visual disability.
Committees on Internal Market and on Regional Policy:
It is worth remembering that we already analyzed the internal market draft
opinion in the past and that we confirm that both (internal market and
regional policy) include amendments to Article 12.
In effect, amendment 15 of the draft opinion of the Regional Policy Committee
says that ‘Member States shall adopt legal provisions maintaining or
introducing free postal service for blind and partially sighted persons.’
ACTIONS CARRIED OUT
In this first period, the EBU has prepared a position paper which was shared with main speakers and alternative speakers on the various Parliamentary committees in charge of this topic.
ACTIONS TO BE CARRIED OUT
In view of the poor results obtained so far, actions should be undertaken
again. Among others, we should establish contacts again with key MEPs on each
of these Committees and try and modify those opinion documents.
DEADLINE
The calendar of the Transport Parliamentary Committee is:
Adoption of the report in the Transport Committee: 7/8 May 2007
Plenary of the European Parliament:
Discussion and adoption in plenary session: June/July 2007
OBSERVATIONS/STATUS
Under study.
2. KEY TOPICS: Social Protection Policies
2. 1 Services of General Interest
BACKGROUND
The European Commission announced that the adoption of the follow-up report
of its White Paper on Social Services of General Interest planned for 21 March
would be postponed until next April.
Already this month, and through the European press, we are able to confirm
that the European Commission holds already a communication draft as follow-up
of the White Paper on Services of General Interest (SIG). The communication
will mean a decisive step towards the consolidation of a European framework
applicable for the SIG.
As you will remember, the White Paper contained already a series of
principles, such as service to citizens, quality, security and accessibility
of the service, access and equal treatment, etc.
ACTIONS CARRIED OUT
National members have been informed about progress being made.
ACTIONS TO BE CARRIED OUT
Follow-up on the communication and preparation of internal position with a
special emphasize on all aspects that may affect social services.
DEADLINE
The adoption which was planned for 12 April has been postponed and will probably be published before next summer.
OBSERVATIONS/STATUS
Under study.
2. 2 Services of General Interest
BACKGROUND
The European Commission announced that the adoption of the
follow-up report of its White Paper on Social Services of General Interest
planned for 21 March would be postponed until next April.
Already this month, and through the European press, we are able to confirm
that the European Commission holds already a communication draft as follow-up
of the White Paper on Services of General Interest (SIG). The communication
will mean a decisive step towards the consolidation of a European framework
applicable for the SIG.
As you will remember, the White Paper contained already a series of
principles, such as service to citizens, quality, security and accessibility
of the service, access and equal treatment, etc.
ACTIONS CARRIED OUT
National members have been informed about progress being made.
ACTIONS TO BE CARRIED OUT
Follow-up on the communication and preparation of internal position with a special emphasize on all aspects that may affect social services.
DEADLINE
The adoption which was planned for 12 April has been postponed and will probably be published before next summer.
OBSERVATIONS/STATUS
Under study
2. 3 Questionnaire on Social Services of General Interest
BACKGROUND
At the beginning of October, the European Commission opened a
consultation
process on a new questionnaire programmed by the European Commission's
Communication published in April 2006.
On this occasion, it was not a public consultation but rather just a
questionnaire sent to a set number of organizations that, because of their
characteristics, were considered by the European Commission as references in
the area of social services. In line with this, the questionnaire was sent to
the Platform of European Social NGOs and to the EDF.
Furthermore, The European Parliament presented its final opinion on Social
Services of General Interest last 28 February. In this Plenary of the European
Parliament, most of the report on social services of general interest was
adopted. The rapporteur is MEP Joël Hasse Ferreira (PSE, Portugal). The
Parliament considers that the European Commission's communication on social
services of general interest is not sufficiently clear as far as
classification
and definition are concerned and it has decided to postpone the decision on
the
legal framework to be applied to these services. The adopted report confirms
the special nature of the social services of general interest and the fact
that
they represent an instrument to strengthen the social dimension of the Lisbon
Strategy.
ACTIONS CARRIED OUT
Some national members have taken part in this questionnaire through their
National Disability Councils.
ACTIONS TO BE CARRIED OUT
Monitoring the publication of answers and future progress stemming from
them.
Monitoring and analysis of the disability sector's position on Social
Services of General Interest.
DEADLINE
IRegarding the following steps of the Commission in this area, a conference at
European level is planned to be organized next summer to present the results
of the consultation and the study on the situation of social services of
general interest in the EU, currently being carried out. The first biennial
report will be presented during the autumn of 2007, after the Communication,
it will include possibly some concrete proposals from the Commission for the
future administration of those services at European level.
OBSERVATIONS/STATUSS
Under study
Back to Contents
3. NON DISCRIMINATION
3.1 European Institute for Gender Equality
BACKGROUND
The regulation on the establishment of the European Institute for
Gender Equality was published on 30 December in the Official Journal of the
European Union.
You may access it through the following link:
http://eurlex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/site/en/oj/2006/l_403/l_40320061230en00090017.pdf
ACTIONS CARRIED OUT
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ACTIONS TO BE CARRIED OUT
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DEADLINE
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OBSERVATIONS/STATUS
In progress
3.2 European Year of Equal Opportunities for All
BACKGROUND
At the end of January, EU Commissioner for Employment, Social Affairs and
Equal
Opportunities, Vladimir Spidla, launched a new website on “2007 European Year
of Equal Opportunities for All” which was officially presented in Berlin on 30
January during the First Equality Summit at European level.
You may access the website through the following link:http://ec.europa.eu/employment_social/eyeq/index.cfm?language=EN
The European Commission published the results of a Eurobarometer survey on
opinions of the Europeans with regards discrimination in Europe. 64% think
that discrimination is widespread in their country and 51% think that all
possible efforts are made to combat it and would like to see a change in the
present situation. The survey shows the lack of extended knowledge on the
existence of legislation against discrimination in the EU and for this reason
the 2007 European Year aims at informing citizens on their rights to non
discrimination, equal treatment and the promotion of equal opportunities.
You may obtain more information through the following link:
http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=MEMO/07/24&format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en
ACTIONS CARRIED OUT
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ACTIONS TO BE CARRIED OUT
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DEADLINE
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OBSERVATIONS/STATUS
Under study
3.3 10th Anniversary of EDF's establishment
BACKGROUND
On the occasion of the 10th Anniversary of the establishment of the
European
Disability Forum (EDF), its President, Yannis Vardakastanis, launched a
campaign called ‘1million4disability’ to collect one million signatures in the
whole of Europe in favour of equal rights for people with disabilities.
The objective is to encourage European Institutions to adopt stronger
legislation to protect the rights of people with disabilities.
You may access the campaign through the following link:
www.1million4disability.eu
ACTIONS CARRIED OUT
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ACTIONS TO BE CARRIED OUT
To analyze the best way to make a contribution to this signature campaign
DEADLINE
4 October 2007
OBSERVATIONS/STATUS
Under study
3.4 European Parliament's draft report on the situation of women with
disabilities in Europe
BACKGROUNDD
At the end of February, a draft report on the situation of women with
disabilities in the EU was published by the European Parliament at its own
initiative. The rapporteur was MEP Esther Herranz García (PPE, Spain). It was
discussed for the first time in the Parliamentary Committee on Women's Rights
and Gender Equality last 24 January.
Once the text was analyzed, it appeared that the cross-disability perspective
was not reflected in the report. Nevertheless, other aspects were taken into
account, such as:
to try and remove existing barriers and obstacles with a view to making it
easier for women and girls to play a part in social, cultural and political
life and to enter the workforce;
to help women with disabilities to progress in those areas of social life
and the world of work in which they are still underrepresented;
to take into account the situation of women with disabled dependents when
drawing up policies and making aid available;
The Parliamentary Committee on Women's Rights also underlines the need to
carry out studies and to gather recent data on disability, paying special
attention to women and girls, as there is a great lack of information in this
field.
ACTIONS CARRIED OUT
Some national members, as well as the EDF itself, have contributed to the drafting of proposals and amendments to this report.
ACTIONS TO BE CARRIED OUT
Follow-up on progress being made
DEADLINE
The Parliament's final report is planned for May.
OBSERVATIONS/STATUS
In progress
3.5 Parliamentary questions on non discrimination
BACKGROUND
A Parliamentary question by MEP Marie Panayotopoulos-Cassiotou (PPE, Greece)
was published, asking how the Commission does intend to step up efforts to
combat discrimination against the 50 million people in the EU with
disabilities and encourage their integration in European societies, taking
into account the publication of the results of the survey carried out by
Eurobarometer in 2006 on discrimination in the EU and in the framework of the
European Year on Equal Opportunities for All (2007).
You may access the question and the answer through the following link:
http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?pubRef=-//EP//TEXT+WQ+P-2007-0755+0+DOC+XML+V0//EN
The answer to the Parliamentary question by MEP Karin Jöns (PSE, Germany)
asking the European Commission about a call for the award of a financial
contribution recently published in the framework of the EU programme, PROGRESS
on the existing distinction made among European organizations dedicated to the
representation of interests and the promotion of equal opportunities and how
this will apply in the selection criteria. EU Commissioner for Employment,
Social Affairs and Equal Opportunities, Vladimir Spidla, answered that
accordingly the call for proposals does not exclude any types of
non-governmental organization (NGO) and indicated that the activities to be
carried out by these organisations should support the implementation of the EU
Disability Action Plan.
You may access the question and the answer through the following link:
http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?pubRef=-//EP//TEXT+WQ+E-2006-5677+0+DOC+XML+V0//EN
Furthermore, MEP Zdzisław Kazimierz Chmielewski (PPE, Poland) asked the
Commission whether there is a common position, or any work under way, with a
view to EU wide regulation of the legal status of sign language. He also asked
what stage has been reached in such work and what practical steps have been
taken by the European Commission.
You may access the question through the following link:
http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?pubRef=-//EP//TEXT+WQ+E-2007-1225+0+DOC+XML+V0//EN
A Parliamentary question by MEP Jacek Protasiewicz (PPE, Poland) was asked to
the European Commission regarding the Application of state aid rules to
support for the employment of disabled persons:
You may access the question and the answer through the following link:
http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?pubRef=-//EP//TEXT+QT+H-2007-0265+0+DOC+XML+V0//EN
A Parliamentary question by MEP Marco Cappato (ALDE, Italy) was also published
concerning the steps that the Commission will take to enable people with
disabilities to gain access more easily to communication tools, in particular
broadband Internet, cost-price text messages and video calls, etc.
You may access the question through the following link:
http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?pubRef=-//EP//TEXT+QT+H-2007-0289+0+DOC+XML+V0//EN
Finally, we want to inform you about the publication of an answer to a
question by MEP Claude Moraes (PSE, United Kingdom) on the measures adopted in
the recruitment process for people with disabilities wishing to secure
employment within the European Commission to make their travel easier to the
cities where the interview takes place. The Commissioner responsible for
Administrative Affairs, Audit and Anti-Fraud, Siim Kallas, answered that when
a person with disabilities goes to an interview in a selection process,
appropriate arrangements must be made for the reception of that person and for
the provision of any assistance that may be required, e.g. access to
buildings, special equipment, etc. Mr. Kallas went on saying that the European
Personnel Selection Office (EPSO) leaves to the candidates' discretion the
actual travelling arrangements to the test centres either in Brussels or
Luxembourg.
You may access the question through the following link:
http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?pubRef=-//EP//TEXT+WQ+P-2007-1157+0+DOC+XML+V0//EN
ACTIONS CARRIED OUT
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ACTIONS TO BE CARRIED OUT
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DEADLINE
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OBSERVATIONS/STATUS
In progress
4. Accessibility
4.1 Transport : Third Railway Package
BACKGROUND
At the end of January, a vote on the Third Railway Package took place in
second reading at the European Parliament's plenary.
The most positive results of this plenary for the disability sector are the
following:
- Accessibility
The definition of a person with disabilities or person with reduced mobility
puts both terms on the same level and corresponds with the definition that
appears in the regulation on air transport. It is a very broad definition of
the assumptions which are taken into account (amendment 25), as we had
requested
A new amendment has been introduced to have an area specially designed to be
used by wheelchairs, when it is the case, after payment of a fee (amendment
69)
The amendment we suggested asking for the information to be in an accessible
format, including electronic vending systems, was adopted. There is also a
reference to pay special attention to people with auditory and /or visual
impairment (amendment 30)
In Article 17 (Right to transport) our proposed amendment was adopted
regarding the establishment of non discriminatory access rules by railway
undertakings and station managers, with the active involvement of
representative organizations of 'persons with reduced mobility, and in
particular of people with disabilities' (amendment 42)
Accessibility of the physical environment: The adopted amendment refers to the
fact that railway stations that are still not accessible should become so when
major renovations are carried out or new rolling stock is purchased (amendment
44)
Free assistance: In the case of an unstaffed railway station, all reasonable
efforts will be made to offer assistance or provide for alternative facilities
guaranteeing an equivalent or higher level of accessibility. This is the
amendment 45 for which we requested support through our voting recommendation
to key actors in the Parliament. It is worth underlining also that this
amendment eliminates, as we had suggested, the mention introduced by the
Council to exemption from the obligation of assistance in cases where station
personnel has other obligations, such as selling tickets
A new amendment has also been adopted to ensure that in unstaffed stations,
information is offered concerning nearest staffed stations and available forms
of assistance (amendment 46)
On-board assistance: An amendment has been introduced for cases where there is
no accompanying personnel, in order for railway undertakings to provide for
alternative ways or means of assistance (amendment 47). The possibility of no
additional travel cost for the accompanying person is not contemplated.
As we proposed, assistance shall be provided on condition that the person
presents him or herself at the station 30 minutes before departure time or the
time at which other passengers are asked to present themselves (amendment 49)
In case of complaint, an amendment has been adopted to extend the period to
one month (amendment 51)
- Other provisions of interest
After some initial media confusion, we were able to confirm that, in effect,
the Parliament had adopted again the amendment that permits the regulation to
be applicable both to national and international passengers, in opposition to
the Council that preferred to limit its application to international
passengers (amendments 1, 14 and 17). Analyzing the Parliament's report, we
have been able to confirm that the alarms that went off in the media saying
that this amendment had not been approved, referred in fact to another railway
package regulation, not to passengers rights, and therefore it did not affect
our interests.
In conclusion, all the amendments favourable to our group that were adopted by
the Parliamentary Committee on Transport were also adopted by the plenary for
recommendation in second reading of this regulation. There is only one
exception, which is amendment 47 of the Transport Committee which considered
the possibility to have an accompanying person without any extra charge if
passengers with disabilities could not enjoy on-board services (cafeteria,
toilets, etc.). This amendment was not included in the plenary.
Nevertheless, we were already aware that the regulation was not going to be
adopted by the Council and that it would go through a third stage, called
'conciliation' stage.
Negotiations, in this conciliation stage, have not progressed much and no
agreement has been reached so far on any outstanding point. In any case, we
can underline the following information:
In general, negotiations are still blocked. The most controversial topic has
been delayed (that of the field of application of national/international
journeys) until the end, and right now, work is being done on some more
concrete points although they are also controversial.
With regards provisions on people with disabilities, no agreement has been
reached so far, neither at internal level in the Council nor, evidently, in
Parliament. The German Presidency is working on this and presenting some
compromise proposals.
The general line of the Council in its negotiations with the Parliament will
be to ‘make all reasonable efforts’ instead of establishing an unequivocal
obligation for Member States. This is the general line. When we investigated
more thoroughly, through the Spanish Transport Counsellor, we learnt that it
did not refer to any concrete amendment, but rather to the basic line of the
Council in the negotiations.
The European Parliament seems to have indicated firmly that the adoption of
the package must include the three regulations and that it would be
unacceptable to adopt two and leave out the one on passengers' rights and
obligations.
ACTIONS CARRIED OUT
All these negotiations have been carefully monitored both by the Council and by part of the European Parliament and the various EBU national members have been informed.
ACTIONS TO BE CARRIED OUT
Once the situation has been analyzed, it would be very useful:
- In the weeks to come, to carry on with our contacts at Parliament and
Council levels in order to find out concrete details on the compromise
proposals that the German Presidency is formulating with regards provisions
for passengers with reduced mobility.
- Once we obtain more information on these contacts, and if we consider it
necessary, we could think about contacting other members of the European
Parliament in the Conciliation Committee, ideally for a round of meetings in
order to ensure that during the negotiations with the Council, the European
Parliament does not accept any compromise in areas important for people with
disabilities
Our objective should be that the Parliament does not negotiate on these
amendments, but rather that it should prefer to give up on other articles.
At the same time, in view of the information that we obtain and the
developments that occur, it could be necessary to consider an increase in the
political pressure through additional means, in cooperation with EDF if we
find it adequate.
DEADLINE
The plan is still to pass the package in June. Negotiations will carry on during the whole of May and the Counsellor hopes to reach an agreement.
OBSERVATIONS/STATUS
Under study
4.2 Green Paper on Urban Transport
BACKGROUND
At the beginning of March, the preparation of the future Green Paper on
Urban Transport was launched. The questionnaire refers to the problems of
accessibility to vehicles and the infrastructures of public transport.
You may participate in the consultation through the following link:
http://ec.europa.eu/transport/clean/green_paper_urban_transport/public_consultation_en.htm
ACTIONS CARRIED OUT
Information has been forwarded to EBU National Members
ACTIONS TO BE CARRIED OUT
Analysis and contribution to the next Public Consultation of the European Commission on the subject.
Follow-up on the publication of the future Green Paper
DEADLINE
The deadline to participate in the consultation is 30 April
The Green Paper is expected to be published in the Autumn 2007.
OBSERVATIONS/STATUS
In progress
4.3 Commission's communication on Air Transport
BACKGROUND
The European Commission published on 4 April a communication
assessing the results of the application of the
general regulation on rights of air passengers in case denial of boarding,
delays or flight cancellations.
In this communication, the Commission grants the Member States and the air
companies a 6-month delay to
implement correctly the rights reflected in this regulation. It is worth
underlying that there is no
reference to passengers with reduced mobility. The Commission also prepared a
series of materials to better
inform the passengers about their rights.
You may access the communication through the following link:
http://ec.europa.eu/transport/air_portal/passenger_rights/doc/2007/com_2007_0168_en.pdf
ACTIONS CARRIED OUT
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ACTIONS TO BE CARRIED OUT
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DEADLINE
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OBSERVATIONS/STATUS
Under study.
5. Information Society
5.1 Review of the Directive on Audiovisual Media Services (TV
without Frontiers)
BACKGROUND
In this period, various actions took place that aimed at the
adoption of the common position of the Council of the Union.
At the beginning, the results of lobby actions carried out by our sector did
not seem to have had much success once the amendment proposals, admitted
indeed by the European Parliament, had reached the Council.
It would seem that the Parliament, in the various meetings held, stated its
intention to include mentions to the accessibility of digital TV only in the
declaration part of the Directive. This would have, therefore, no binding
effect on any of the State Members. As you will remember, our amendments were
aimed at including these mentions to accessibility among the articles of the
Directive.
After careful analysis of this fact and some lobby actions on the part of some
EBU National Members, we finally learnt the existence of a proposal aimed at
including a mention to accessibility among the articles of the Directive.
ACTIONS CARRIED OUT
Contacts have been established with EDF to draft a possible lobby strategy to
be followed
Contacts have been maintained with Transport Counsellors in order to get more
information on Council's decisions.
ACTIONS TO BE CARRIED OUT
Evaluation of the proposal of inclusion among the articles
Evaluation of the possibilities to improve the proposed text
Joint actions with the EDF
DEADLINE
The German Presidency is still insisting on the final approval of this Directive by June.
OBSERVATIONS/STATUS
Under study
5.2 Consultation on digital content
BACKGROUND
The European Commission published a study entitled "Interactive Content and convergence: Implications for the Information Society". Commissioner for Information Society and Media, Viviane Reding declared that this study will be very useful for the preparation of the package “Online Content in the European Single Market” for the second half of 2007. As you already know, the European Commission published last year a public consultation on online content in the single market, in which some EBU National Members took part and which obtained over 175 contributions which are presently being analyzed for the future Commission proposals. The consultation identified 36 obstacles to the development of online content and established its impact on the market until 2010.
ACTIONS CARRIED OUT
Information to EBU National Members
ACTIONS TO BE CARRIED OUT
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DEADLINE
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OBSERVATIONS/STATUS
In progress
5.3 Mobile TV and European Regulatory Authority
BACKGROUND
Commissioner for Information Society and Media, Viviane Reding announced in Germany last March during the Hannover Technology Fair, CeBIT, that common standards could be necessary for TV broadcasting to mobile terminals. The Commissioner would like to see Member States support the DVB-H standard (Digital Video Broadcasting-Handheld) in which the European Commission has already invested over 40 million euros. At the moment, the industry does not seem to agree on a single standard to use in the whole of the EU. Commissioner Reding expressed also the urgent need to reinforce the internal market through major activity at EU level. In this line, it is hoped that the Commissioner will propose a binding modus operandi for national authorities or the creation of an independent European Regulatory Authority which would replace the European Regulatory Group (ERG) with activities that have only an advisory value.
ACTIONS CARRIED OUT
Information to EBU National Members
ACTIONS TO BE CARRIED OUT
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DEADLINE
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OBSERVATIONS/STATUS
In progress
5.4 Digital libraries
BACKGROUND
The EU High Level Expert Group on Digital Libraries met and
presented an advisory report on copyrights problems. The group also examined
the media to ensure a more open access to scientific research and to improve
cooperation between public and private sectors.
The report does not make any reference to accessibility for people with
disabilities, in accordance with the information we already had that this
group will not approach the disability issue.
You may access the report through the following link:
http://ec.europa.eu/information_society/newsroom/cf/document.cfm?action=display&doc_id=295
ACTIONS CARRIED OUT
Information to EBU National Members
ACTIONS TO BE CARRIED OUT
Follow-up on progress being made
DEADLINE
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OBSERVATIONS/STATUS
Under study
5.5 i2010: Digital strategy
BACKGROUND
On 30 March, the European Commission published an annual
follow-up report on the i2010 Digital Strategy for
Growth and Jobs in the framework of the Lisbon Strategy. The report reflects
the economic impact on EU
Member States of efforts made to develop information technologies. This report
contains a section on
eInclusion which shows the growing need to include all users and in this line,
the Commission points out
that, as we know, it will express its views on the issue through the 2008
eInclusion initiative. It also
proposes to review progress made in the eAccessibility sector and considers
the need to carry out actions,
including legislative measures such as, for example, the inclusion of a
provision aimed at making
audiovisual media services accessible to people with visual or auditory
disabilities in the modified version
of the directive on audiovisual media services.
You may access the report through the following link:
http://ec.europa.eu/information_society/eeurope/i2010/docs/annual_report/2007/comm_pdf_com_2007_0146_f_en_acte.pdf
ACTIONS CARRIED OUT
Information to EBU National Members
ACTIONS TO BE CARRIED OUT
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DEADLINE
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OBSERVATIONS/STATUS
Under study
6. European Financing
6.1 PROGRESS programme
BACKGROUND
At the beginning of January, a Parliamentary question, put to the
European Commission, was published by MEP Karin Jöns (PSE, Germany) on EU
PROGRESS programme calls for tender. She asks if there was any reason for
making a distinction in the call between organizations that have as their
primary objectives the representation of the interests of disabled people and
those that are active in promoting equal opportunities for people with
disabilities. She wants to know how this will apply in the selection criteria.
You may access the question through the following link:
http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?pubRef=-//EP//TEXT+WQ+E-2006-5677+0+DOC+XML+V0//EN
ACTIONS CARRIED OUT
Information to EBU National Members
ACTIONS TO BE CARRIED OUT
Follow-up on the answer that will be given
DEADLINE
Beginning of the programme: 1 January 2007
OBSERVATIONS/STATUS
In progress
6.1a EU PROGRESS programme
BACKGROUND
A PROGRESS programme call for tender was published on National
awareness-raising activities in the field of antidiscrimination. This call is
open only to National authorities.
You may access this call through the following link:
http://ec.europa.eu/employment_social/emplweb/tenders/tenders_en.cfm?id=1025
Furthermore, another call for tender was published to obtain a Framework
contract for provision of support services for communication activity in the
whole of the EU concerning the PROGRESS programme and related policies.
You may access this call through the following link:
http://ec.europa.eu/employment_social/emplweb/tenders/tenders_en.cfm?id=1085
ACTIONS CARRIED OUT
Information has been forwarded to EBU National Members
ACTIONS TO BE CARRIED OUT
Analyze both calls for tender to value whether they are of interest to us.
DEADLINE
The deadline to take part in the first call is 25 May 2007
The deadline to take part in the second call is 30 April 2007
OBSERVATIONS/STATUS
Under study
6.1b EU PROGRESS programme
BACKGROUND
The Commission published a call for tender for the organization
of the European day Conference for People
with Disabilities.
You may access this call through the following link:
http://ec.europa.eu/employment_social/emplweb/tenders/tenders_en.cfm?id=1205
ACTIONS CARRIED OUT
Information has been forwarded to EBU National Members.
ACTIONS TO BE CARRIED OUT
Analyze this call for tender to value whether they are of interest to us.
DEADLINE
The deadline to take part in this call is 11 May 2007
OBSERVATIONS/STATUS
Under study
6.2 7th Framework Programme on Research and Development
BACKGROUND
The Regulation laying down the rules for the participation of
undertakings, research centres and universities in actions under the Seventh
Framework Programme and for the dissemination of research results (2007-2013),
was published in the Official Journal of 30 December 2006
You may access the document through the following link:
http://eurlex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/site/en/oj/2006/l_391/l_39120061230en00010018.pdf
The first calls for tender of the Seventh Research Framework Programme (FP7)
were also published, including those on Information and Communication
Technologies.
You may access the document through the following link:
http://cordis.europa.eu/fp7/dc/index.cfm?fuseaction=UserSite.CooperationCallsPage&id_activity=3
ACTIONS CARRIED OUT
Information to EBU National Members
ACTIONS TO BE CARRIED OUT
-
DEADLINE
-
OBSERVATIONS/STATUS
In progress
6.3 Lifelong Learning
BACKGROUND
The European Commission published on 20 December 2006 a call for
proposals for the EU Lifelong Learning Programme during the period 2007-2013,
which includes initiatives such as Erasmus, Jean Monnet, Comenius, Leonardo da
Vinci, Grundtvig, the transversal programme and other accompanying measures.
The budget is 784 million euros.
You may access the call through the following link:
http://eurlex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/site/en/oj/2006/c_313/c_31320061220en00420043.pdf
ACTIONS CARRIED OUT
Information has been forwarded to EBU National Members
ACTIONS TO BE CARRIED OUT
-
DEADLINE
All through 2007
OBSERVATIONS/STATUS
In progress
6.4 Development cooperation
BACKGROUND
On 27 December 2006 a Regulation establishing a financing
instrument for development cooperation was published in the Official Journal.
You may access the document through the following link:
http://eurlex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/site/en/oj/2006/l_378/l_37820061227en00410071.pdf
ACTIONS CARRIED OUT
The different National Members have been informed.
ACTIONS TO BE CARRIED OUT
-
DEADLINE
-
OBSERVATIONS/STATUS
In progress
6.5 Promotion of a European citizenship
BACKGROUND
The decision establishing for the period 2007 to 2013 the
programme ‘Europe for Citizens’ to promote active European citizenship was
also published in the Official Journal of 27 December
You may access the document through the following link:
http://eurlex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/site/en/oj/2006/l_378/l_37820061227en00320040.pdf
ACTIONS CARRIED OUT
Information has been forwarded to EBU National Members
ACTIONS TO BE CARRIED OUT
-
DEADLINE
-
OBSERVATIONS/STATUS
In progress
6.6 Promotion of social dialogue and industrial relations
BACKGROUND
A call for tender aimed at the promotion of social dialogue and
industrial relations has been published. The available budget is 12,780,000
euros and it mentions that access for people with disabilities must be
guaranteed.
You may access the call through the following link:
http://ec.europa.eu/employment_social/emplweb/tenders/tenders_en.cfm?id=1005
ACTIONS CARRIED OUT
Information has been forwarded to EBU National Members
ACTIONS TO BE CARRIED OUT
-
DEADLINE
The deadline to participate is 1 March 2007 or 31 August 2007, depending on the operations commencing date.
OBSERVATIONS/STATUS
In progress
6.7 Network of experts on Equal Opportunities
BACKGROUND
At the end of March, a call for tender was published for a service contract to set up and support a network of experts on equal gender opportunities, social inclusion, health and long-term assistance.
ACTIONS CARRIED OUT
Information to EBU National Members
ACTIONS TO BE CARRIED OUT
To value the possibility of presenting some project
DEADLINE
The deadline to participate is 12 June 2007
OBSERVATIONS/STATUS
Under study
6.8 Programme of Fundamental Rights and Citizenship
BACKGROUND
The EU Council of Ministers adopted the Programme of Fundamental
Rights and Citizenship under the new 2007- 2013 financial perspectives. Thanks
to this programme, the National Authorities and Civil Society will benefit
from the concrete EU compromise to promote respect and strengthen the
protection of fundamental rights. The programme will have over 93 million
euros at its disposal.
You may obtain more information through the following link:
http://ec.europa.eu/justice_home/funding/rights/funding_rights_en.htm
ACTIONS CARRIED OUT
Information to EBU National Members
ACTIONS TO BE CARRIED OUT
To value the possibility of presenting some project
DEADLINE
-
OBSERVATIONS/STATUS
Under study
7. Participation in consultation processes
7.1 Green Paper on consumer protection
BACKGROUND
The European Commission published recently a Green Paper on the review of
the European Legislation on consumer protection.
We believe some aspects of it may be of interest to us.
The Green Paper is a public consultation where the Commission lists the
various reasons that support the need to review the European legislation in
this area, as well as the different options to carry out this review. In this
context there are two concrete points on which I wish to draw your attention:
Ø One of the main reasons for reviewing consumer legislation is to be able to adapt it to new technologies, in increasing use, in relation with consumers and users protection. In principle, here the Commission is not taking into account accessibility issues, but rather issues of data protection rights, withdrawal right further to an electronic purchase, contract resignation, etc. We nevertheless believe that the consultation could be a good platform to call the attention and stimulate awareness of DG SANCO (Health & Consumer Protection) on concerns and expectations of consumers with disabilities in Europe. Although in general, DG Information Society is the one in charge of issues of e-accessibility, it would be important to stimulate awareness and find a proactive partner in DG SANCO. As you know, there is a new Commissioner for Consumer Affairs, Meglena Kuneva from Bulgaria.
Ø Among the options analyzed by the Green Paper to review the legislation, one of the alternatives is to introduce a full harmonization of consumer protection levels, applicable to all Member Countries. As in the case of any harmonization, this would imply upward levels of protection for some Member States and a necessary downward adaptation for others that could have currently higher protection levels. A complete harmonization would mean, for example, that Member States such as Spain, could not establish higher protection levels, for example in the case of people with disabilities. If this approach should be adopted, it would be necessary to evaluate the possible impact on Spanish legislation and consider the need to secure existing protection levels for all people with disabilities.
In any case, although it is not an urgent issue that will have an immediate impact, as the process is just being started, I think it is worth informing DG SANCO about the need to ensure protection of more vulnerable groups, such as people with disabilities, older people, etc.
ACTIONS CARRIED OUT
Information has been forwarded to EBU National Members
ACTIONS TO BE CARRIED OUT
Analyze the text of this consultation and prepare a contribution
DEADLINE
The deadline to participate is 15 May 2007
OBSERVATIONS/STATUS
Under study
7.2 Public Consultation on Europe's Social Reality
BACKGROUND
The European Commission has launched a public consultation on Europe's
Social Reality.
The main issues of the consultation are the following:
Trends
Transition to post-industrial knowledge and service economy
The welfare state
Consumer focus: impact of affluence
Demographics
Values: the individual, the family, the community, society.
Welfare
What do you mean by well- being? In addition to material possessions, what
really matters in making our lives happy and satisfied?
And what do you think are the main obstacles in Europe today: not enough
money, lack of decent jobs, too much pressure on the family and leisure time,
poverty and inequality, inadequate public services such as health and
education, prevalence of crime, lack of respect, problems of migration and
multiculturalism?
Opportunity and access
What are the most important factors in maintaining or increasing one’s
opportunities in today's society?
(Education, social status, wealth, health, public services etc)
- Education
What needs to be done to expand educational opportunity for all through life?
What could be done to make up
for the consequences of early educational disadvantage being reinforced later
in life; to reduce the number
of early school leavers; to widen access to further and higher education
particularly for the socially disadvantaged; and to grant access to all to
learn through life?
- Employment /the Work Place
What are the main barriers to finding a decent job and keeping up with the
skills to obtain another, if need be? What are efficient solutions to overcome
these barriers and enlarge access to jobs? What is the right balance of
security and opportunity in the modern labour market?
Is stress at work rising and if it is, what is causing it – for example, new
job demands, employment insecurity, inadequate work life balance?
What is needed to help 'dual-earner' couples balance work, family and leisure?
What can be done to ease the tensions of having a career and combining it with
a decent family and private life for both women and men?
- Society and Social relationships
What are the social implications of changing values? The changing role of
women? The role of men? What are the barriers in society to happy family lives
and can governments do anything to help remove them? Is the declining birth
rate a purely private matter or should it be one of active public concern?
Why is poverty, especially child poverty, still so prevalent in Europe? What
is to blame, how serious are the consequences for society and what if
anything, should be done?
Does it matter if our societies are becoming more unequal? How can an
increasingly diverse society be also a cohesive one? How does diversity affect
solidarity? How can integration be improved? How can access for all to
(public) services such as justice, administration, culture, social services
(and social housing) and social security be guaranteed?
As life expectancy increases, how much will the burden of care for the elderly
rise and who should meet it - in both financial cost and personal time? What
are the social implications of the increasing numbers of elderly people living
alone? Where should the balance of responsibility lie between family,
community and state? What are the social and economic barriers to older people
working longer?
What explains the persistence of poverty among 1 in 6 old people in the EU?
What are the most important things that could be done to extend the number of
years of good health that people enjoy? Can inequalities in health outcomes be
reduced? What can be done about health issues that are the result of lifestyle
choice and how do we strike the right balance between individual and societal
responsibility? How can access for all to health services be guaranteed?
How have perceptions of quality of life changed in recent decades? What
priority are Europeans prepared to give to environmental sustainability above
other more immediate objectives? What are the economic and social implications
for Europe of a determined effort to offer a global lead on climate change?
How serious is the impact of crime and anti social behaviour on well-being and
what can be done?
ACTIONS CARRIED OUT
Information has been forwarded to EBU National Members
ACTIONS TO BE CARRIED OUT
The text of the consultation will be analyzed and an answer will be prepared
DEADLINE
The deadline will be 31 December 2007
OBSERVATIONS/STATUS
Under study
7.3 Social Services freephone numbers
BACKGROUND
The European Commission launched a consultation to draft a list of services
of social value that could benefit from single European freephone numbers
starting with “116".
You may access the consultation document through the following link:
http://ec.europa.eu/information_society
ACTIONS CARRIED OUT
Information has been forwarded to EBU National Members
ACTIONS TO BE CARRIED OUT
The text of the consultation will be studied and a contribution will be prepared
DEADLINE
The deadline is 20 May 2007
OBSERVATIONS/STATUS
Under study
7.4 Study on compensation for loss of or damage to equipment of people with disabilities in air transport
BACKGROUND
The European Commission is working on a study on Study on the right to
compensation for loss of or damage to equipment of people with disabilities in
air transport. This study pretends to research whether a European legislation
is necessary in this field. For the time being, the regulation on rights of
passengers with reduced mobility in air transport includes the obligation of
compensation for damages to the equipment, but does not require total
compensation.
On this subject, an external consulting company has prepared a questionnaire
on which the European Commission has requested EDF's answer. EDF is asking its
members to answer this questionnaire and send it directly to the consultant:
prm@civic-consulting.de with copy to the person in charge at EDF:
maria.nyman@edf-feph.org.
ACTIONS CARRIED OUT
Information has been forwarded to EBU National Members
ACTIONS TO BE CARRIED OUT
To prepare an answer to this questionnaire
DEADLINE
The deadline is 16 April 2007
OBSERVATIONS/STATUS
Under study
8. Employment and Social Affairs
8.1 Joint Report on Employment and Joint Report on Social Protection and
Social Inclusion
BACKGROUND
At the end of February a meeting of the Employment and Social
Affairs Council took place that included a general debate on the establishment
of a minimum standard of social welfare in the whole of the EU. Some
countries, such as France and Italy were in favour of it, but no agreement was
reached because the majority of them was reticent, the United Kingdom among
others. This debate is a follow-up of the meeting held recently in Paris,
which we already informed you about, where nine Member States asked for a more
social Europe.
In the course of the same Council, the "Joint Report on Employment" and the
"Joint Report on Social Protection and Social Inclusion" were adopted. They
are both part of the Annual Progress Report produced by the European
Commission in the framework of the European Employment Strategy (EES). In the
joint report on employment, the Commission and the Council analyzed each
National programme of employment and its application, comparing it with the
Integrated Guidelines for Growth and Jobs and the EES goals. The report points
out the need to implement in-depth reforms, especially to reach a better
balance between flexibility and security in the labour market. This report
emphasizes the need to adopt a more complete approach combining more active
policies in the labour market, more flexible labour contracts, lifelong
learning and social protection. This report indicates that young people, as
well as immigrants and people with disabilities still find it more difficult
to get a job. The Council adopted for the first time some specific
recommendations for each of the 19 Member Countries, including Spain. The
publication of the final version of the report is still pending. We will
forward it to you as soon as it becomes available.
As for the Joint Report on Social Protection and Social Inclusion, it points
out that the European cooperation is helping the Member States to improve
policies and expenditures in the sector of social cohesion. The report sets
the priorities and progress made in areas of social inclusion, pensions,
health and long term care. The report mentions also that active inclusion is
the best way for integration of the most disadvantaged in society, and that
special attention must be devoted to people with disabilities, immigrants, the
homeless and ethnic minorities.
You may access the Joint Report on Social Protection and Social Integration
through the following link:
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/site/en/com/2007/com2007_0013en01.pdf
ACTIONS CARRIED OUT
Information to the Members of the EBU Working Group on Employment
ACTIONS TO BE CARRIED OUT
Follow-up on the answer that will be given
DEADLINE
The joint report will be discussed in the Spring Summit of EU Leaders on 8 and 9 March.
OBSERVATIONS/STATUS
In progress
8.2 Report on the New Social Europe
BACKGROUND
Former European Commission President, Jacques Delors and the
President of the Party of European Socialists, Poul Nyrup Rasmussen presented
the report they have prepared jointly called “The New Social Europe”. The
document is the result of a consultation process that lasted 18 months with
the participation of the members of the national parties that make up the
Party of European Socialists. The new report contains a plan with ten actions
in the field of social policy in Europe. One of the points is the
establishment of a legal framework for services of general interest.
You may access the report through the following link:
http://www.pes.org/downloads/New_Social_Europe_Report_printfinal.pdf
ACTIONS CARRIED OUT
Information to the Members of the EBU Working Group on Employment
ACTIONS TO BE CARRIED OUT
Follow-up.
DEADLINE
-
OBSERVATIONS/STATUS
In progress
8.3 Report on Europe's Social Reality
BACKGROUND
The European Commission presented a provisional report that
analyzed Europe's social reality that was discussed in the Spring Summit of
Heads of State and Government on 8 and 9 March and left to their approval. To
initiate the debate, the Commission has launched a Eurobarometer study on the
subject and a very general public consultation.
You may participate in the consultation through the following link:
http://ec.europa.eu/citizens_agenda/social_reality_stocktaking/index_es.htm
ACTIONS CARRIED OUT
Information to the Members of the EBU Working Group on Employment
ACTIONS TO BE CARRIED OUT
Follow-up
DEADLINE
-
OBSERVATIONS/STATUS
In progress
8.4 European Social Summit
BACKGROUND
The Tripartite Social Summit, held every year prior to the Spring
Summit of Heads of State and Government, took place in Brussels. This Summit
gathered together the German Presidency and social partners, such as the
European Trade Union Confederation and the Union of Industrial and Employers'
Confederations of Europe.
The social partners expressed the difficulties met in the labour market in
Europe and the need, among other things, to adopt strategies that promote the
inclusion of labour force and lifelong training. Discussions focused mainly on
the promotion of “Flexicurity” (combination of labour market flexibility and
workers employment security). As a result of the meeting, participants agreed
that reference should be made to the European Social Model in the final
version of the European Constitution.
ACTIONS CARRIED OUT
Information to the Members of the EBU Working Group on Employment
ACTIONS TO BE CARRIED OUT
Follow-up
DEADLINE
-
OBSERVATIONS/STATUS
In progress
9. European Institutions
9.1 New EU Commissioners from Bulgaria and Rumania
BACKGROUND
The European Parliament approved last December with a wide majority the
appointment of two new
Commissioners, one from Bulgaria, Meglena Kuneva who will hold the Consumers
portfolio and the other from
Rumania, Leonard Orban who will hold the Multilingualism portfolio. These
countries are part of the
European Union since 1 January 2007.
ACTIONS CARRIED OUT
-
ACTIONS TO BE CARRIED OUT
-
DEADLINE
-
OBSERVATIONS/STATUS
In progress
9.2 European Parliament: new presidencies in some Committees
BACKGROUND
A decision was finally taken in relation with the presidency of European
Parliament's committees. Former Parliament President, Josep Borrell (PSE,
Spain) was appointed President of the Committee on Regional Development. The
presidencies of the Parliamentary Committees on Internal Market and Consumer
Protection (Arlene McCarthy, PSE, United Kingdom), Employment and Social
Affairs (Jan Andersson, PSE, Sweden, Vice- President of the Disability
Intergroup), Culture and Education (Nikolaos Sifunakis,PSE, Greece), Transport
and Tourism (Paolo Costa, ALDE, Italy) and Civil Liberties, Justice and Home
Affairs (Jean-Marie Cavada, ALDE, France) remained unchanged.
Anna Colombo (Italy) was appointed Secretary General of the Socialist Group in
the European Parliament and will hold her position as from 1 March 2007.
Furthermore, the new European Parliament President, Hans Gert-Poettering (PPE,
Germany) presented the priorities of his presidency. His speech focused on the
“values” of the Union, as well as the need to build a citizens' Europe, with
the implementation of the institutional reform and the promotion of
intercultural dialogue.
ACTIONS CARRIED OUT
-
ACTIONS TO BE CARRIED OUT
-
DEADLINE
-
OBSERVATIONS/STATUS
In progress
9.3 The Commission's annual policy strategy for 2008
BACKGROUND
The European Commission published its Annual Policy Strategy that sets the
priorities for 2008. This Strategy will be discussed by the European
Parliament and the Council of Ministers before the approval of the budget for
2008. Regarding the Lisbon Strategy for Growth and Jobs, the Annual Strategy
announces that it is still the main tool to promote a more prosperous,
inclusive and environmentally responsible society. At the end of 2007, the
Commission will present a strategic report on the first cycle of the strategy,
possibly with a revision of the Integrated Guidelines. On the other hand, in
2008 preparatory work will be undertaken to ensure that the European Institute
of Technology becomes operational in 2009. In the framework of the promotion
of fundamental rights, special emphasis will be put on the rights of the
child, with the adoption of specific proposals to tackle child poverty.
Proposals will also be adopted clarifying the application of Community law to
social services, together with EU-wide quality criteria for social services of
general interest, as a follow-up to the Commission White Paper. There will be
also initiatives to combat discrimination outside the labour market. Finally,
for 2008 the Strategy points out that recent research shows that the main
concerns for EU citizens are the social dimension of the EU in the context of
globalisation (in particular jobs and the fear of unemployment) as well as
migration.
You may access the document through the following link
http://ec.europa.eu/atwork/synthesis/doc/aps_2008_en.pdf
ACTIONS CARRIED OUT
Information to EBU National Members
ACTIONS TO BE CARRIED OUT
-
DEADLINE
-
OBSERVATIONS/STATUS
In progress
9.4 Czech Presidency of the European Union
BACKGROUND
The future Czech Presidency of the Council of Europe that will start at the beginning of 2009, announced its main message: “Europe without frontiers”. Its main priority will be the implementation of the four freedoms of circulation (persons, services, capitals and goods) and the liberalization of internal market policy.
ACTIONS CARRIED OUT
Information has been forwarded to EBU National Members
ACTIONS TO BE CARRIED OUT
-
DEADLINE
-
OBSERVATIONS/STATUS
In progress
9.5 Spring Summit of EU Heads of State and Government
BACKGROUND
The conclusions of the Spring Summit of Heads of State and Government held
on 8 and 9 March were published in the second half of March. The conclusions
focused on the evaluation of the Lisbon Strategy and the European energy
policy. The Heads of State and Government were happy to check that the Lisbon
Strategy is showing its first results given the current positive trend of job
creation. The European leaders also pointed out the need to improve economic
and social cohesion within the EU and the importance of the role of social
partners. The issue of a “better regulation” was also addressed. The Council
requested State Members to draft action plans to reduce the administrative
burden from national legislation. It was also agreed that the decision on the
creation of the European Institute of Technology must be taken before the end
of the year.
On the other hand, the German Presidency presented to the European Parliament
in Strasbourg the proposal structure for the Berlin Declaration to celebrate
the 50th Anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Rome. During the Summit,
an agreement was reached on the structure of the declaration: Europe's
success, EU's characteristics, essential values and future challenges. The
German Presidency has planned to present a first draft of the declaration in
the coming days, which will include the European social dimension. There does
not appear to be any will to make any reference to the European Constitution
in the text of the declaration.
ACTIONS CARRIED OUT
-
ACTIONS TO BE CARRIED OUT
-
DEADLINE
-
OBSERVATIONS/STATUS
In progress