The Congress has called on Iceland to incorporate local self-government into domestic law. It concluded that Icelandic municipalities lead globally in terms of female voting and representation and welcomed the high level of fiscal autonomy in the country’s local self-government. However, despite previous Congress recommendations, Iceland did not incorporate local democracy and self-government principles into its law to ensure a clear division of responsibilities between central and local authorities.
Latviashould strengthen financial autonomy at local level, recommended the Congress. It called for an increase of revenue potential at the local level, aligning local financial resources with local competences, simplifying supervision and clarifying the division of competences.
As for Malta, the Congress praised it for Malta praised the 2019 local government reform, the lowering of the minimum age for local elections to 16, and Malta’s ratification of the Additional Protocol to the European Charter of Local Self-Government on the right to participate in the affairs of a local authority. However, it local authorities’ competences should be increased and administrative supervision limited.
The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), the EU’s financial markets regulator and supervisor, has responded to the European Commission proposal to amend the Markets in crypto-assets Regulation (MiCA) Regulatory Technical Standards (RTS). ESMA acknowledges the legal limitations raised by the Commission but emphasises the importance of the policy objectives behind the initial proposal.
In the Opinion, ESMA takes note of the amendments proposed to the two RTS specifying:
the information to be included in a notification by certain financial entities of their intention to provide crypto-asset services and
the information to be included in an application for authorisation as crypto-asset service provider.
ESMA also reiterates that the final objective of these RTS is to ensure a thorough entry point assessment for applicant crypto-asset service providers (CASPs) and financial entities intending to provide crypto-asset services in the EU. This will increase the resilience of the crypto assets market and enhance investor protection in the crypto-assets space.
ESMA therefore recommends the Commission consider amendments to the MICA regulation (Level 1), namely:
requiring applicant crypto-asset service providers and notifying entities to provide the results of an external cybersecurity audit; and
including, in the assessment of the good repute of the members of the management body of applicant crypto-asset service providers, checks regarding the absence of penalties also in areas other than commercial law, insolvency law, financial services law, anti-money laundering and counter terrorist financing, fraud or professional liability.
Background
On 25 March 2024, ESMA published its first final report on the draft RTS specifying certain requirements of MiCA and submitted it to the EC for adoption. In September 2024, the Commission informed ESMA that it intended to adopt two of the proposed RTS with amendments and invited ESMA to submit new draft RTS reflecting the amendments provided.
Next steps
This opinion has been communicated by ESMA to the Commission, the European Parliament and the European Council.
The EC may adopt the two RTS with the amendments it considers relevant or reject it. The European Parliament and the Council may object to an RTS adopted by the EC within a period of three months.
Speech by Christine Lagarde, President of the ECB, at the official dinner of Banka Slovenije in Ljubljana, Slovenia
Ljubljana, 16 October 2024
It is a pleasure to be here this evening.
Not far from here, tucked away in the National and University Library, lie copies of the Abecedarium and the Catechism. These two texts, written by the religious reformer Primož Trubar in 1550, were the first ever books to be printed in Slovenian.[1]
At a time when German was the language of the ruling classes, Trubar’s pioneering act was fundamental in helping to establish the national identity of Slovenians.[2]
Today, his portrait graces the €1 coin in Slovenia, framed by the famous words found in the Catechism, “Stati inu Obstati” – “to stand and withstand”.[3]
It is telling that both books – one a primer for the Slovenian language, the other guidelines for religious observance – were designed to teach, for there is much that Europe can learn from Slovenia in the uncertain world we now face.
The global order we knew is fading. Open trade is being replaced with fragmented trade, multilateral rules with state-sponsored competition and stable geopolitics with conflict.
Europe had invested considerably in the old order, so this transition is challenging for us. As the most open of the major economies, we are more exposed than others.
So, in this new landscape, we too must learn “to stand and withstand”. And we can do so by drawing on two valuable lessons from Ljubljana.
Opportunity in times of uncertainty
The first lesson is that uncertainty can create opportunity.
While many in Europe are anxious about the future, Slovenians are no strangers to uncertainty.
Within a single generation, Slovenia made a success of the extraordinarily difficult transition from a planned economy to a market economy. Policymakers defied the odds by implementing tough structural reforms to first join the EU and, later, the euro area.
Today, Slovenia is a success story. It is a developed, stable and high-income economy, with the highest GDP per capita at purchasing power parity of central and eastern European countries (CEECs).
The nation’s success owes much to the creativity and vigour of its people and their innate ability to seize economic turning points and transform them into opportunities.
For example, when Slovenia joined the EU, it was exposed to greater levels of competition from other Member States in the economic bloc.
But Slovenia quickly capitalised on its skilled workforce to develop a new business model based on deep integration in the Single Market. Today, every single car produced in Europe has at least one component that is made in Slovenia.[4]
For Europe, the changes in the global economy today represent a similar turning point. But if we approach it with the right spirit, I believe it can be an opportunity for renewal.
A less favourable global economy can push us to complete our domestic market. Fiercer foreign competition can encourage us to develop new technologies. More volatile geopolitics can drive us to become more energy secure and self-sufficient in our supply chains.
For Slovenia, the transformation of the automotive supply chain will be a particular challenge. But the economy is already adapting. For example, in July this year Slovenia secured a major investment in domestic electric vehicle production.[5]
For many Slovenians, striding into an unpredictable future may seem like second nature.
One of your most famous paintings, “The Sower”, hangs on display here at the National Gallery. Depicting an agricultural labourer at the crack of dawn hard at work sowing seeds in a field, the painting represents Slovenians’ resolute determination in the face of uncertainty.
The rest of us in Europe will need to draw on this example in the uncertain times ahead. If we do so, we can also turn uncertainty into opportunity.
The importance of sharing the benefits of change
The second lesson from Slovenia is that the benefits of change can – and should – be more widely shared.
The path of renewal for Europe is inescapably linked with new technology, especially digitalisation. But new technologies can sometimes lead to uneven labour market outcomes.
Slovenia has undergone remarkable technological change over the past 20 years. Today, the country’s level of digital development is 7% above the CEEC average and it can compete with some of the most digitally developed EU countries in certain areas.[6]
Yet Slovenia’s Gini coefficient – a measure of income inequality – is the second lowest in the OECD.[7] The country also benefits from high levels of gender equality. Female labour force participation is higher than the EU average and nearly equal to that of men.[8]
Many in Europe are worried about the challenges ahead, such as the effects of artificial intelligence on social inclusion. But we should let Slovenia’s example inspire us.
With the right approach, we can move forward and become more technologically advanced while ensuring everyone can benefit from the gains.
And when everyone benefits, Europe benefits too. Over three-quarters of citizens in Slovenia feel attached to Europe, and almost two-thirds identify as both Slovenian and European – levels that are well above their respective EU averages.[9]
Conclusion
Let me conclude.
In today’s uncertain world, Europe must learn “to stand and withstand”. And it can do so by looking to Slovenia as an example of how to overcome challenges that come its way.
First, we must work hard to sow the seeds of success. And then, as the folk singer Vlado Kreslin sings, “vse se da” – “everything is possible”.
On October 16th, the Chamber of Regions convened during the 47th session of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities, marking a significant moment in regional governance. The assembly saw the election of Cecilia Dalman Eek from Sweden as the new President, filling a crucial vacancy in the leadership.
Dalman Eek, a prominent figure in regional politics, has been a dedicated member of the regional council of Västra Götaland. Her election to the presidency comes after her previous role as the 5th Vice-President of the Chamber of Regions, where she demonstrated her commitment to social inclusion and regional development. Additionally, she has been an active member of the Social Inclusion Committee, advocating for policies that promote equity and accessibility within local governance.
The election of Dalman Eek is seen as a pivotal step towards enhancing the representation of local and regional authorities in broader political discussions. Her leadership is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the Chamber, focusing on collaboration and the empowerment of local communities.
As the new President, Dalman Eek will face the challenge of addressing pressing issues that affect regions across Europe, including economic recovery, climate change, and social cohesion. Her experience and dedication to public service position her well to lead the Chamber in these critical areas.
The Congress of Local and Regional Authorities continues to play a vital role in shaping policies that impact local governance, and with Dalman Eek at the helm, there is optimism for a proactive and inclusive approach to regional challenges.
Addressing the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities at its 47th plenary Session, Parliamentary Assembly President Theodoros Rousopoulos highlighted the most pressing challenges the Assembly and the Congress both needed to face, including democratic backsliding, Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, the global environmental crisis, gender inequalities, the impact of AI on democracy and human rights, and the migration crisis.
“The direct access to citizens’ concerns and expectations regarding democracy, human rights and the rule of law that you have makes your Congress a crucial local and regional dimension to governance,” he emphasised, evoking this body’s 30th anniversary.
The PACE President welcomed the Congress’s revised priorities following the Reykjavik Summit, in particular the strengthened monitoring of local democracy and respect for the rule of law. “This serves as an important element of an early warning system to signal signs of democratic erosion in our member states,” he said.
“As in any parliament, battles are fought within the Parliamentary Assembly, and in this Congress as well, but our weapons are not bullets, they are the words that combine to create arguments,” Mr Rousopoulos concluded.
KINGNEWSWIRE – The Church of Scientology of Rome hosted a conference on 4 October in its Auditorium in Via della Maglianella 375, in celebration of the national Day of Memory and Welcoming to humanise the processes of welcoming and integration under the banner of human rights.
On Friday, 4 October, the Church of Scientology in Rome hosted a conference on migration, reception and integration on the occasion of the Day of Remembrance and Welcoming, called every 3 October by law no. 45 of 2016 as a national day in Italy, to commemorate the 398 victims, migrants, following a shipwreck in the Mediterranean Sea in 2013.
The conference received the partnerships of Mediatori Mediterranei, La Collina Community, the association Human Rights and Tolerance, the association Art and Culture for Human Rights, the IDOS Study Centre – Statistical Immigration Dossier, and the Confronti Study Centre and Magazine as mediapartners. In particular, IDOS granted the possibility to download the year 2023 Immigration Dossier free of charge from the website www.dossierimmigrazione.it for the duration of the conference.
The first panel was moderated by the director of the Confroni Study and Research Centre, Claudio Paravati. Dr. Beatrice Covassi, with experience in the European Union Commission, spoke and outlined three key points for the management of the phenomenon: the promotion of regular migration, the reform of the right to citizenship and interreligious and intercultural dialogue. Dr. Alessandra Morelli, former delegate of the High Commissioner for Refugees at the United Nations, called for a policy of care and faces that respects human dignity and helps reception and integration in migration management. The creation of an agency operating within the Presidency of the Council of Ministers, in conjunction with the Ministries of the Interior, Foreign Affairs, Health and Labour was his proposal for a resolution. Closing the panel was a video message by Don Mario Farci who, from a theological perspective, illustrated how migration is a structural factor of humanity, revealing its nature as a people on a journey and its relationship with God who walks with it.
In the second session, Prof. Di Sciullo. President of the IDOS Study and Research Centre, traced the historical stages that have led to the perception of the migration phenomenon as a ‘social emergency’ and highlighted how instead foreigners are a resource, producing 9% of the national Gross Domestic Product and therefore recalled the need for laws that look at the phenomenon as a resource and those who will be affected by it as people with dignity who want to live in legality.
Prof. Carlo Pilia, President of Mediatori Mediterranei, referred to some European projects and explained the lack of university courses for cultural mediators. He proposed to train our Mediterranean mediators as excellences who are ready both theoretically and practically to face the reality of migration in the places where migrants live and need to integrate.
Lastly, Prof. Martin Nkafu Professor of African Philosophy at the Lateran University and President of the Nkemnkia International Foundation, proposed replacing the term ‘migration’ with the concept of ‘human mobility’ and to work, right from schools, on educating young people to ‘world citizenship’, to the principle of ‘internationality’, creating that cultural change in a world that has now changed. Prof. Nakfu invited those present to consider that if one is born in Italy, one is certainly an Italian citizen, but also a ‘citizen of the world’. In the concluding panel, the testimonies of those on the front line of reception.
Moderated by Don Ettore Cannavera, creator and director of the La Collina Community, speakers included Dr. Lilia Adriane Azevedo, Expert in immigrant rights and human rights, owner of Casa Helena (Centre for studies and assistance to work, family and immigrants), Prof. Salameh Ashour, Imam, lecturer in Islamic culture and Arabic language, spokesperson for the Palestinian community, Dr. Felix Adado, Poet, writer of the book ‘The World’s best known book’, and Dr. Ettore Cannavera, Director of the La Collina Community. Felix Adado, Poet, Writer and Linguistic-Cultural Mediator, Dr. Daniel Sigua, Journalist and International Correspondent, founder of TCG News, the first Latin American news agency in Italy and Europe, Dr. Hassan Batal, Intercultural Mediator, Dr. Doreid Mohamad, President of the Association Sardinia Lebanon a bridge for the Mediterranean. From the audience came speeches by lawyer Angela Susanna Tosi, creator and director of the project Avvocati Cittadinanza, and Gemma Vecchio, President of Casa Africa. It was clear from their speeches that we are dealing with individuals with a dignity that if recognised as indispensable opens the door to good integration.
It became clear from the conference that one must always ask oneself why a person decides to leave his or her place of origin. There are many answers and the exact answer is key to understanding how to manage the reception and integration of each person. Another element is that migration is a structural phenomenon, not an emergency, and the cultural change that educates generations about human rights and respect for the dignity of the person must be placed at the basis of all policies, laws and regulations concerning this field of social living.
In closing, a video was shown on Article 1 of the UN Universal Declaration, which enshrines equal dignity and rights for all. It is one of 30 videos that are part of the teaching materials of Youth for Human Rights International (YHRI), which aims to teach human rights to young people and inspire them to become advocates for peace. YHRI is now a worldwide movement, with hundreds of groups worldwide, supported by the Church of Scientology and inspired by L. Ron Hubbard, other religious bodies and civil society.
The Vice-President of the European Commission for Values and Transparency, Věra Jourová, visited half of the EU Member States between January and June 2024, in a ‘Democracy Tour’ in preparation of the elections for the European Parliament held on 6 to 9 June 2024. She discussed key aspects of the Commission recommendation on inclusive and resilient elections with national authorities responsible for conduct and integrity of elections and with representatives of civil society.
The ‘Democracy Tour’ focused on the resilience of the informational space online, and four key areas of particular threat emerged from the discussions with stakeholders: disinformation, foreign interference, the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies, and cybersecurity risks.
The Memo annexed here gathers the incidents recorded during the electoral period in connection to the four threat areas, based on data available at the time of writing. It focuses exclusively on aspects related to the information space online and does not cover other aspects such as the organisation of elections or physical threats.
It is a working document prepared to support discussions in the framework of the European Cooperation Network on Elections on 11th October 2024 on the 2024 elections for the European Parliament and closing the ‘Democracy Tour’. Prepared under the authority of the Vice-President, it is offered as input to the ongoing preparatory work on the Commission’s broader post-election report, as announced in the Defence of Democracy Package issued by the Commission in December 2023.
Based on currently available information, no major information interference operation capable of disrupting the elections was recorded. At the same time, it is widely recognised that the threat levels for information integrity during elections were high, as confirmed by the activation by the European Council of the Integrated Political Crisis Response (IPCR) arrangements for addressing foreign interference.
October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a crucial time for raising awareness, promoting early detection, and supporting women battling breast cancer. A group of determined women, known as Les Amazones, recently embarked on an inspiring journey in Iceland, walking “100km-au-delà” to show solidarity with those affected by this devastating disease.
Maria, the vice-president of a volunteer cancer support group based in Brussels, emphasizes the importance of regular screenings. Diagnosed with breast cancer at just 38, Maria recalls her experience: “I was on sickness leave for a year and required heavy surgery. I was the youngest person in the hospital where I was treated – the age at which you can develop cancer is dropping dramatically.” Her story serves as a reminder that early detection can significantly improve outcomes.
The European Union is committed to fighting breast cancer through its European Health Union strategy, implementing the Beating Cancer Plan to enhance prevention, treatment, and care. In 2022, new guidelines for breast, colorectal, and cervical cancer screening were adopted, aiming to have 90% of the eligible population screened. Breast cancer alone accounts for nearly 30% of all diagnosed cancers in women across the EU, yet participation in screening varies greatly by country.
As part of a supportive community, Valentina shares her experiences with the cancer support group that became her second family. Celebrating the power of shared experiences, Valentina affirms, “Life is made easier when you share with other people. Just a nice word from a colleague can make all the difference.” The group, consisting of 200 members, provides vital support, from assisting with treatment navigation to organizing group activities like yoga and nature walks. “I was not really sporty before cancer,” Valentina admits, “but now I’m exercising every weekend.”
Valentina’s journey led her to join the Les Amazones initiative, a local program in Belgium encouraging women to engage in physical activity post-treatment. The “Amazones” walked over 100km across the stunning landscapes of Iceland, fostering community and resilience. Valentina explains the group’s name, referencing the ancient warrior women of Greek mythology who were said to have removed their right breasts to improve archery, symbolizing strength amidst adversity.
Alice, another member of the support group, recounts her own challenging path. While working in Niger during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, she was diagnosed with breast cancer shortly after finishing breastfeeding her daughter. “I had just taken the last flight back to Europe for a biopsy, and unfortunately, it was positive. In Niger, women do not have the same opportunities.” She reflects on her journey with gratitude, stating, “I’m lucky I was born in Europe.”
As Pink October encourages action and awareness, the commitment from groups like Les Amazones exemplifies how community, support, and proactive measures can significantly impact the fight against breast cancer. For more information on cancer screening and support initiatives, the EU’s #GetScreenedEU campaign offers resources on cancer screening programs across member countries.
As thousands join together in solidarity, they remind us that with awareness and action, we can make a difference in the lives of many facing the challenges of breast cancer.
European Parliament from EU, CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
Support includes medical evacuations, mental health services, and integration into EU health programs
In a video message addressed to the Ukrainian Ministry of Health Conference, European Commissioner for Health and Food Safety, Stella Kyriakides, underscored the European Union’s steadfast commitment to support Ukraine “in all respects, and for as long as it takes.” Joined by Ukraine’s Minister of Health, Viktor Liashko, Commissioner Kyriakides highlighted the extensive assistance the EU is providing to bolster Ukraine’s healthcare sector amid ongoing challenges.
Commissioner Kyriakides announced that, to date, more than 3,500 Ukrainian patients have been transferred to hospitals across the EU and the European Economic Area (EEA) through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism. This initiative aims to alleviate the burden on Ukraine‘s healthcare facilities and ensure that patients receive the necessary medical care. “Our support to Ukraine regarding the healthcare sector includes immediate needs like medical evacuation,” she stated.
Enhancing Mental Health and Psychosocial Services
Recognizing the profound psychological impact of the conflict, the Commissioner emphasized the importance of mental health support. The EU has provided financial assistance to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies to aid individuals who have fled Ukraine or have been internally displaced. Efforts are also underway to strengthen access to mental health services for children, one of the most vulnerable groups affected by the crisis. “We are helping Ukraine to strengthen access to mental health services for children,” Kyriakides noted.
Rehabilitation Programs and EU Health Integration
The European Union is assisting Ukraine in improving rehabilitation services for wounded civilians and veterans. Ukraine’s inclusion in the EU4Health funding program has opened numerous opportunities for collaboration in the health sector. In June of the previous year, the EU concluded further arrangements for deeper cooperation with the Ministry of Health of Ukraine. “Ukraine’s work with our European Reference Networks enabled additional financial support for the Ukrainian Hub for Rare Diseases at the Children’s Hospital in Kyiv,” the Commissioner highlighted.
Strengthening Emergency Preparedness and Response
Commissioner Kyriakides praised Ukraine’s participation in the board of the Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Authority (HERA), emphasizing the importance of joint efforts in health emergency preparedness. In collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Europe, a project has been launched to enhance Ukraine’s capacity to address chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) threats. “Together with WHO Europe, we have launched a project to build capacity in Ukraine to address CBRN threats—an area where we must continue to work and prepare together,” she asserted.
Pathway Towards EU Integration
Affirming the European Union’s support for Ukraine’s future within the EU, Commissioner Kyriakides stressed the ongoing efforts to assist Ukrainian authorities in meeting accession requirements. “Ukraine’s alignment with EU standards will improve economic resilience, create new supply chains, and strengthen sectors such as pharmaceuticals,” she stated. The Commissioner underscored that the negotiations will require leadership, determination, and focus, with successful reforms being key to progress. “Getting reforms right will be key. Our support for Ukraine in this process is a given,” she added.
Solidarity and Shared Future
Concluding her message, Commissioner Kyriakides reaffirmed the EU’s profound commitment to supporting Ukraine. “We stand together in your fight for freedom and democracy, and we will work together towards a future of stability, resilience, and partnership,” she declared. She extended her wishes for a fruitful conference discussing the integration of Ukrainian and EU healthcare systems. “I wish you a fruitful day discussing the integration of Ukrainian and EU healthcare,” she said.
“Don’t miss a single screening – not even by a month,” says Maria, vice-president of a volunteer cancer support group in her workplace in Brussels. Maria was diagnosed with cancer in 2013 at the age of 38 through a routine check. “I was on sickness leave for a year and required heavy surgery. I was the youngest person in the hospital where I was treated – the age at which you can develop cancer is dropping dramatically.”
October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, an opportunity to raise awareness of the disease, provide support to women with breast cancer and to highlight how early screening can significantly improve the chances of a successful outcome.
The EU plays an active part in this battle to beat breast cancer. As part of its European Health Union strategy, it has put in place a Beating Cancer Plan. Through it, itis working on meaningful change in EU countries to achieve better cancer prevention, treatment, care and quality of life for all EU citizens. In 2022, new updated screening guidelines were adopted based on the latest scientific evidence for breast, colorectal and cervical cancer. The EU’s goal is to offer screening to 90% of the eligible target population across the EU.
Currently, breast cancer accounts for almost 30% of all diagnosed cancers in women in the EU. There are, however, marked differences in screening participation among countries and population groups. In 2022, the EU set up the first-ever European Cancer Inequalities Registry, to identify trends, disparities, and inequalities between and within EU countries and regions. The results feed into the EU’s future policies and investment in breast cancer treatment.
“I was on my own when I was diagnosed,” says Valentina, who is a member of Maria’s cancer support group. “The support group became like a second family to me. Life is made easier when you share with other people. Just a nice word from a colleague can make all the difference.” The group has 200 members, who have either had or have cancer or caregivers to people with cancer.
“Everyone should try to organise such a group,” says Valentina. The group provides support from advice on how to navigate “the sea of procedures” surrounding getting cancer treatment to laying on yoga classes and walks in the woods. Valentina stresses the importance of physical activity in improving energy levels following cancer treatment. “I was not really sporty before cancer,” she says with a laugh, “but now I’m exercising every weekend.”
As part of her recovery, Valentina signed up to a local scheme in Belgium which encourages women with breast cancer to engage in group physical activity to help them heal and reduce the risk of cancer recurrence. Valentina walked just over 100km in Iceland with a group of 10 women. “Even with a very heavy workload, I felt so energised when I found out I could take part.” The group called themselves Les Amazones. “We discovered only afterwards that the Greeks had made up an etymology, claiming it derived from a-mazos – without a breast. These fearsome women cut off their right breasts to remove an obstruction to the bowstring,” explains Valentina.
A fellow cancer support group member, Alice, was initially diagnosed with breast cancer while working in Niger. “I had just finished breast feeding my 15-month-old daughter and it was the beginning of COVID. The doctor told me to go back to Europe to get a biopsy and I took the last flight before the airport was closed for several weeks. Unfortunately, the biopsy was positive and my treatment began. In Niger, women do not have the same opportunities.” How does she feel about the experience now? “I’m lucky I was born in Europe,” she says.
