German Chancellor Olaf Scholz called for a united Europe capable of changing to secure its place in the world of tomorrow in a debate with MEPs.
In his This is Europe address to the European Parliament on 9 May 2023, Chancellor Scholz stressed that Europe has a global responsibility beyond its borders “because the well-being of Europe cannot be separated from the well-being of the rest of the world”. The world of the 21st century, he said, “will be multipolar, it already is”.
Scholz identified three lessons for the EU: “First, Europe’s future is in our hands. Secondly, the more united Europe is, the easier it will be to secure a good future for ourselves. And thirdly, not less but more openness and more cooperation are the order of the day.”
To secure Europe’s place in the world of tomorrow, the EU must change, the Chancellor said. “We need a geopolitical EU, an enlarged and reformed EU, and an EU open to the future.”
On Russia’s war against Ukraine, he said the EU must now set the course for the reconstruction of Ukraine. A prosperous, democratic, European Ukraine is the clearest rejection of Putin’s imperial, revisionist and illegal policy.
In a multipolar world, the countries of the global south are important partners, Scholz continued. Europe must stand up for food security and poverty reduction and it must keep its promises of action on international climate and environmental protection.
With regard to enlargement, the Chancellor said: “An honest enlargement policy implements its promises – first and foremost to the states of the Western Balkans.” He also announced to push for extending qualified majority decision-making to more decisions dealing with foreign policy and taxation.
Speaking about migration and asylum, he said: “We are united by the goal of better managing and regulating irregular migration – without betraying our values.” In many parts of Europe, workers, from non-EU countries are needed, he continued, and if Europe links regular migration with the demand that countries of origin and transit also take back those who have no right to stay in Europe, “then all sides will benefit”.
Reactions from MEPs
Reacting to Scholz’s EU reform proposals, MEPs demanded courage from Europe’s leaders to take the EU into the future and called on Chancellor Scholz to push for a Convention before the 2024 European elections. Several MEPs demanded the continuance of support for Ukraine in the Russian war of aggression until a just peace is secured, while others criticised Germany for providing tardy support to Ukraine, and the EU for providing more money to the arms industry.
A number of MEPs stressed the importance of fighting the economic impact on European citizens of the Russian war in Ukraine and some called for new legislation to ensure social justice as well as for a reform of the EU electricity market to guarantee fair prices. Some speakers stressed the importance of Europe’s green and digital transition and requested more investment in these areas so that Europe can lead on technological breakthroughs.
You’ve decided to welcome a feathered friend into your home, choosing to care for a bird is a rewarding experience. However, it’s important to understand that birds require special attention and care to thrive in a domestic setting. This ultimate guide is designed specifically for beginners looking to provide the best possible care for their avian companions. From selecting the right bird species and setting up a suitable habitat to ensuring proper nutrition and healthcare, we’ll cover all the basics you need to know to keep your feathered friend happy and healthy.
To ensure your pet bird feels safe and secure, it’s vital to choose the right cage. Consider the size of the bird and how much room they need to fly and move around comfortably. Opt for a cage with bars that are appropriately spaced to prevent any escapes.
Essentials for a Healthy Habitat
The key to a healthy habitat for your pet bird is providing them with the necessarys they need to thrive. This includes fresh water, a nutritious diet, and a clean environment. Make sure to regularly clean the cage and provide your bird with plenty of toys and perches for mental and physical stimulation.
It is crucial to keep the cage away from drafts, direct sunlight, and any potential hazards like toxic plants or household chemicals. Regular vet check-ups are also important to ensure your bird stays healthy and happy.
Feeding your bird a proper diet is crucial for their health and well-being. Different bird species have varied dietary requirements, so it’s imperative to research what specific foods are best for your feathered friend. In general, a balanced diet for birds includes a mix of seeds, pellets, fruits, vegetables, and proteins.
Tips for a Balanced Diet
One of the keys to providing a balanced diet for your bird is variety. Offering a diverse range of foods ensures that your bird receives all the necessary nutrients for optimal health. Consider incorporating fresh foods, such as leafy greens, carrots, berries, and cooked eggs into their diet. Rotating different types of food will keep your bird interested and provide a more complete nutrition profile. The quality of the food you offer is just as important as the variety. Make sure to provide fresh, high-quality food to meet your bird’s needs.
Health and Wellness
Recognizing Common Health Issues
One of the most important aspects of bird care is being able to recognize common health issues that your feathered friend may experience. It’s crucial to keep an eye out for signs of illness such as changes in behavior, eating habits, or appearance. If you’re unsure about what to look for, How to Care for a Bird (with Pictures) can be a helpful resource.
Preventative Care and Regular Check-ups
On top of being vigilant about your bird’s health, preventative care and regular check-ups are key to ensuring they stay happy and healthy. Scheduling annual wellness exams with an avian veterinarian can help catch any potential issues early on. Implementing proper nutrition, clean living conditions, and providing mental stimulation are also imperative for their overall well-being.
Another important aspect of preventative care is establishing a good relationship with an avian veterinarian who is knowledgeable about bird health. They can provide guidance on vaccinations, parasite control, and appropriate grooming techniques to keep your bird in top condition.
Social Interaction and Training
Taming and Bonding with Your Bird
Many new bird owners may find it daunting to build a strong bond with their feathery friend, but with patience and consistency, it is entirely achievable. An imperative first step is to spend time near your bird’s cage, talking to them softly and offering treats to establish trust. Slowly, you can start exposing your bird to your hand by placing it in the cage with treats, allowing them to approach you at their own pace. Recall, establishing a bond takes time, so be patient and consistent in your efforts.
Teaching Tricks and Encouraging Play
Encouraging play and teaching tricks to your bird can be a fun way to bond with them and keep them mentally stimulated. Teaching your bird simple tricks like stepping up on your hand or playing with toys can help build trust and strengthen your relationship. Regular playtime outside the cage can also provide much-needed exercise. For instance, you can use puzzle toys or create obstacle courses for your bird to navigate through, keeping them engaged and entertained.
Conclusion
The Ultimate Guide To Bird Care For Beginners covers everything you need to know about providing excellent care for your feathered friend. By following the tips and guidelines in this guide, you can ensure that your bird stays healthy, happy, and well-cared for. Be mindful of, with the right knowledge and dedication, you can create a loving and enriching environment for your bird to thrive in. Happy bird-keeping!
Press conference by Lara WOLTERS (S&D, NL) rapporteur, on Corporate Sustainability, companies to address impact on human rights and environment
On Tuesday, the Legal Affairs Committee approved a bill, agreed with EU governments, requiring firms to mitigate their negative impact on human rights and environment.
MEPs on the Legal Affairs Committee adopted with 20 votes for, 4 against and no abstentions new, so-called “due diligence” rules, obliging firms to alleviate the adverse impact their activities have on human rights and the environment, including slavery, child labour, labour exploitation, biodiversity loss, pollution and destruction of natural heritage. The requirement to prevent, end or mitigate their negative effects also concerns companies’ upstream partners working in design, manufacture, transport and supply, and downstream partners, including those dealing with distribution, transport and storage.
Scope and transition plan
The rules will apply to EU1 and non-EU companies and parent companies with over 1000 employees and with a turnover of more than 450 million euro and to franchises with a turnover of more than 80 million euro if at least 22.5 million was generated by royalties.
Companies will also have to integrate due diligence into their policies and risk management systems, and adopt and put into effect a transition plan making their business model compatible with the global warming limit of 1.5°C under the Paris Agreement. The transition plan should include the company’s time-bound climate change targets, key actions on how to reach them and an explanation, including figures, of what investments are necessary to implement the plan.
Civil liability and fines
Firms will be liable if they do not comply with their due diligence obligations and will have to fully compensate their victims. They will also have to adopt complaints mechanisms and engage with individuals and communities adversely affected by their actions.
Member states will designate a supervisory authority in charge of monitoring, investigating and imposing penalties on companies that do not comply. These can include fines of up to 5% of companies’ net worldwide turnover. Foreign companies will be required to designate their authorised representative based in the member state in which they operate, who will communicate with supervisory authorities about due diligence compliance on their behalf. The Commission will establish the European Network of Supervisory Authorities to support cooperation among supervisory bodies.
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Following the committee vote, lead MEP Lara Wolters (S&D, NL) said:“I’m delighted that a clear majority of Legal Affairs Committee members backed the Due Diligence Directive today. It is high time that this legislation is adopted, to stop corporate abuse and to give companies clarity in what is expected of them. I’m looking forward to the plenary vote and confident that it will be adopted swiftly.”
Next steps
Once formally approved by the European Parliament and the member states, the directive will enter into force on the twentieth day following its publication in the EU Official Journal.
We must never forget that war invariably leads to defeat, the Holy Father noted
At his weekly general audience in St. Peter’s Square, Pope Francis once again called for negotiated peace and condemned the bloody conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, Reuters reported. The agency notes that the pope has again cut short his public appearances due to health problems.
“We must never forget that war invariably leads to defeat, we cannot continue to live in war, we must make every effort to mediate, to negotiate an end to war, let us pray for this,” the Holy Father said in a brief his statement at the end of the audience, in which he mentioned “martyred” Ukraine and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Eighty-seven-year-old Francis, who has mobility problems and has been suffering from colds and bouts of bronchitis in recent weeks, again did not read most of the speech prepared for the audience, Reuters noted. He delegated this task to an assistant and told the faithful that he was still forced to limit his public speaking.
Earlier this month, Francis sparked controversy after he said in an interview with Swiss public television that Ukraine should “have the courage to wave a white flag” and start negotiations with Russia.
His deputy, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, later specified that Russia must first stop its aggression, Reuters recalls.
The French National Asylum Court (CNDA) for the first time decided to grant asylum to a Russian citizen who was threatened by mobilization in his homeland, writes “Kommersant”.
The Russian, whose name has not been released, went to court after being refused asylum by the French Office for the Protection of Refugees and Stateless Persons (OFPRA).
Last year, after being refused by OFPRA, the 27-year-old Russian went to court, but then the court found his arguments unconvincing.
This time, the existence of a subpoena served on the Russian helped convince the court, lawyer Yulia Yamova told Kommersant. According to her, the judges were convinced that a graduate of a Russian university, enrolled in the reserve after graduating from the military department, could indeed be called up to participate in military operations.
“For a long time, the French authorities could not believe that a person who had never served in the army and had not undergone proper training was subject to conscription and sent to the front,” Yamova said.
The lawyer added that this time the French court also took into account the opinions of experts who believe that the recruitment campaign as part of the “partial mobilization” was carried out in 2022 with numerous violations of the law: “For example, in formal non-wartime, the right to alternative civil service was not provided.
According to Yamova, after the introduction of electronic subpoenas in Russia, it will be easier to prove in court in France the existence of a threat of mobilization – those wishing to receive asylum as proof of military service will only need to have an electronic copy of the subpoena in the state offices .
A new global report published on Tuesday by the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), a UN agency, shows that records have once again been broken for greenhouse gas levels, surface temperatures, ocean heat and acidification, sea level rise, ice cover and glacier retreat.
Heatwaves, floods, droughts, wildfires and rapidly intensifying tropical cyclones caused misery and mayhem, upending everyday life for millions and inflicting many billions of dollars in economic losses, according to the WMOState of the Global Climate 2023 report.
“Sirens are blaring across all major indicators… Some records aren’t just chart-topping, they’re chart-busting. And changes are speeding up,” said UN Secretary-General António Guterres in a video message for the launch.
Based on data from multiple agencies, the study confirmed that 2023 was the warmest year on record, with the global average near-surface temperature at 1.45°C above the pre-industrial baseline. It crowned the warmest ten-year period on record.
UN News/Anton Uspensky – Dr Celeste Saulo (centre), Secretary-General of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) at the launch of the State of the Global Climate 2023 report
“The scientific knowledge about climate change has existed for more than five decades, and yet we missed an entire generation of opportunity,” WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo said presenting the report to the media in Geneva. She urged the climate change response to be governed by the “welfare of future generations, but not the short-term economic interests”.
“As Secretary-General of the World Meteorological Organization, I am now sounding the red alert about the state of the global climate,” she emphasised.
World in disarray
However, climate change is about much more than air temperatures, the WMO experts explain. The unprecedented ocean warmth and sea level rise, glacier retreat and Antarctic sea ice loss, are also part of the grim picture.
On an average day in 2023, nearly one third of the ocean surface was gripped by a marine heatwave, harming vital ecosystems and food systems, the report found.
The glaciers observed suffered the largest loss of ice on record – since 1950 – with extreme melt in both western North America and Europe, according to preliminary data.
Alpine ice caps experienced an extreme melting season, for instance, with those in Switzerland loosing around 10 per cent of their remaining volume in the past two years.
The Antarctic sea ice loss was by far the lowest on record – at one million square kilometres below the previous record year – equivalent to the size of France and Germany combined.
Observed concentrations of the three main greenhouse gases – carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide – reached record levels in 2022 and continued increase in 2023, preliminary data shows.
Global repercussions
According to the report, weather and climate extremes are either the root cause or serious aggravating factors that in 2023 triggered displacement, food insecurity, biodiversity loss, health issues and more.
The report, for example, cites figures that the number of people who are acutely food insecure worldwide has more than doubled, from 149 million before the COVID-19 pandemic to 333 million in 2023 in 78 countries monitored by the World Food Programme (WFP).
“The climate crisis is the defining challenge that humanity faces. It is closely intertwined with the inequality crisis – as witnessed by growing food insecurity and population displacement, and biodiversity loss,” said Ms. Saulo.
A glimmer of hope
The WMO report not only raises alarm but also offers reasons for optimism. In 2023, renewable capacity additions soared by almost 50 per cent, totalling 510 gigawatts (GW) – the highest observed rate in two decades.
The surge in renewable energy generation, primarily fuelled by solar radiation, wind, and the water cycle, has positioned it as a leading force in climate action for achieving decarbonization goals.
Effective multi-hazard early warning systems are crucial for mitigating the impact of disasters. The Early Warnings for All initiative aims to ensure universal protection through early warning systems by 2027.
Since the adoption of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, there has been an increase in the development and implementation of local disaster risk reduction strategies.
From 2021 to 2022, global climate-related finance flows nearly doubled compared to 2019-2020 levels, reaching nearly $1.3 trillion.
However, this amounts to only about one percent of global GDP, underscoring a significant financing gap. To achieve the objectives of a 1.5°C pathway, annual climate finance investments must increase more than sixfold, reaching almost $9 trillion by 2030, with an additional $10 trillion needed by 2050.
Cost of inaction
The cost of inaction is staggering, the report warns. Between 2025 and 2100, it may reach $1,266 trillion, representing the difference in losses between a business-as-usual scenario and a 1.5° C pathway. Noting that this figure is likely a significant underestimate, the UN weather experts call for immediate climate action.
The report is launched ahead of the Copenhagen Climate Ministerial meeting, where climate leaders and ministers from around the world will gather for the first time since COP28 in Dubai to push for accelerated climate action, including delivering an ambitious agreement on financing at COP29 in Baku later this year – to turn national plans into action.
Dogs are beloved members of our families, but they can face various health issues that can affect their well-being. Preventing these common health issues is key to ensuring a long and happy life for our furry friends. From obesity to heartworm, being aware of these preventable conditions can help protect our dogs and keep them healthy. In this blog post, we will discuss five common health issues that dogs may encounter and provide tips on how to prevent them, so you can keep your canine companion in the best shape possible.
Some dogs may struggle with obesity, a common health issue that can have serious consequences if not addressed. To learn more about canine wellness and other common health problems in dogs, check out Canine Wellness: Recognizing Common Dog Health …
Causes of Canine Obesity
To prevent obesity in dogs, it is important to understand the causes behind it. Factors such as overfeeding, lack of exercise, and genetics can contribute to weight gain in dogs. It is necessary to monitor your dog’s diet and activity levels to maintain a healthy weight.
Tips for Maintaining Your Dog’s Ideal Weight
On top of regular exercise and a balanced diet, there are several key tips for maintaining your dog’s ideal weight. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate portion sizes and feeding schedule for your dog. Avoid feeding table scraps and high-calorie treats that can contribute to weight gain. Though it can be tempting to share food with your furry friend, it is important to prioritize their health over indulgence.
Regular exercise: Ensure your dog gets enough physical activity to stay fit and healthy.
Proper portion control: Measure your dog’s food to avoid overfeeding.
Healthy treats: Opt for nutritious snacks and limit high-calorie treats.
Maintaining your dog’s ideal weight is crucial for their overall health and well-being. Excess weight can lead to joint problems, diabetes, and other health issues. Thus, keeping your dog at a healthy weight is a key part of responsible pet ownership.
Dental Problems
Recognizing Dental Issues in Dogs
Dogs can suffer from various dental problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. It’s important for pet owners to educate themselves on the signs of dental issues in dogs, including discolored teeth, swollen gums, difficulty eating, and excessive drooling.
Preventative Dental Care for Your Furry Friend
On top of recognizing the signs of dental problems, preventative dental care is crucial in keeping your dog’s oral health in check. Regular brushing, dental chews, and professional cleanings are key in preventing plaque buildup, tartar accumulation, and potential tooth loss. Make it a habit to check your dog’s mouth regularly and schedule regular dental check-ups with your veterinarian.
Dental care is not only about keeping your dog’s breath fresh but also about preventing more serious health issues. Untreated dental problems can lead to infections, pain, and even organ damage. By taking proactive measures and giving proper attention to your dog’s dental health, you can ensure a happy and healthy life for your furry friend.
Skin Issues
Common Skin Conditions in Dogs
Conditions such as allergies, infections, parasites, and hot spots are common skin issues that dogs may face. Allergies can be triggered by food, environment, or even flea bites, leading to itching and irritation. Infections can occur due to bacteria or yeast, causing redness and odor. Parasites like fleas and mites can also cause skin irritation, while hot spots can develop from excessive licking or scratching.
Keeping Your Dog’s Skin Healthy
For a healthy skin and coat in your dog, regular grooming is crucial. This includes brushing to remove loose hair and prevent matting, as well as bathing with a gentle dog shampoo to keep the skin clean. Additionally, providing a balanced diet rich in crucial fatty acids can help improve skin health from within.
Skin issues in dogs can cause discomfort and affect their quality of life. It is important to monitor your dog’s skin regularly for any changes in appearance or behavior. If you notice any abnormalities such as redness, bumps, or excessive scratching, consult your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Parasitic Infections
Fleas, Ticks, and Worms, Oh My!
For a dog, dealing with parasites like fleas, ticks, and worms can cause a lot of discomfort and health issues. Fleas can lead to itching, skin irritation, and even transmit diseases. Ticks can transmit dangerous diseases like Lyme disease, while worms like roundworms and hookworms can cause digestive problems and even affect a dog’s heart.
Prevention and Treatment Strategies
Any responsible dog owner knows the importance of preventing and treating parasitic infections in their furry friends. The key to preventing these issues is to maintain regularparasite prevention treatments prescribed by your veterinarian. Regular check-ups and preventive medications can protect your dog from these harmful parasites and keep them healthy and happy.
The vet can recommend the best preventive measures based on your dog’s health and lifestyle. If infestation occurs, they can also provide effective treatment options to eliminate the parasites and preventre-infestation. By staying proactive and following your vet’s advice, you can protect your beloved pet from parasiticinfections.
Identifying joint and bone problems in your dog is crucial for their overall well-being. Watch out for signs such as limping, stiffness, difficulty getting up, or reluctance to go upstairs or jump onto furniture. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s imperative to consult with your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis.
Strategies for Supporting Joint and Bone Health
The key to supporting your dog’s joint and bone health is through a combination of proper nutrition, regular exercise, and supplements. Regular exercise helps to keep their muscles strong and their joints mobile. High-quality nutrition is imperative for maintaining healthy bones and joints. Additionally, supplements such as glucosamine can help support joint health and reduce inflammation.
This comprehensive approach can help prevent joint and bone issues in your dog, ensuring they lead a happy and active life for years to come.
Final Thoughts
Embracing Preventative Measures
Unlike treating health issues in dogs reactively, prevention is always better than cure. Any pet parent can implement simple measures at home to keep their furry friends healthy and happy. This includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, proper grooming, and scheduled veterinary check-ups. By staying proactive, you can significantly reduce the risk of your dog developing common health issues.
When to Seek Veterinary Help
Any changes in your dog’s behavior, appetite, or physical condition should not be ignored. If you notice persistent symptoms, unusual behaviors, or sudden changes in your dog’s health, it’s crucial to seek veterinary help promptly. A veterinarian can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend the best course of action to address the underlying health issue.
Thoughts: Remember that your dog’s well-being is your responsibility. By being attentive to any signs of discomfort or illness and taking prompt action, you can ensure that your furry companion receives the necessary care and attention to lead a long and healthy life.
As you know, this year too we will move the clock forward one hour on the morning of March 31. Thus, summer time will continue until the morning of October 27, when we will move it back one hour.
After preliminary discussions three years later, in 2018, the European Commission proposed that the time change be abolished, with member states retaining the right to decide which time zone applies to their territories. Until now, a final decision on the matter has not been made and this idea has been frozen for discussion in the Council of the European Union, because no consensus can be reached on which time should be introduced – summer or winter. There is no prospect of a recent decision on this matter.
After lobbying against summer time by European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker, in 2018 the European Parliament conducted a survey which showed that a large majority of Europeans supported the abolition of summer time.
In fact, only 4.6 million Europeans took part in the online survey – three million of them Germans, who dominated the abolitionist camp. In Britain, for example, only 13,000 people bothered to vote.
In total, about 80% of survey participants wanted to abolish winter time. The results also show a significant age divide, with people in Europe over 50 opposed to the clock change and people under 24 either in favor of daylight saving time or unconcerned.
The winner of the 2024 LUX Award will be announced in the Brussels Hemicycle on 16 April
The winning film of the 2024 LUX Award will be announced in the Brussels Hemicycle, with representatives from the five nominated films and MEPs present.
The upcoming ceremony in the European Parliament will bring together MEPs, filmmakers, and citizens to celebrate the winning film selected by both MEPs and the audience.
The winner of the award is selected jointly by MEPs and the public through ratings, each accounting for 50% of the final result. European citizens are invited to rate the films out of five stars until 14 April 2024. To rate the films, visit the LUX Award website.
The LUX European Audience Film Award has been awarded by the European Parliament and the European Film Academy, in partnership with the European Commission and the Europa Cinemas network, since 2020. The award helps to promote and distribute European films with high artistic quality that reflect cultural diversity and touch upon topics of common concern, such as democracy, human dignity, equality, non-discrimination, inclusion, tolerance, justice and solidarity.
MEPs adopted their proposals to revamp EU pharmaceutical legislation, to foster innovation and enhance the security of supply, accessibility and affordability of medicines.
On Tuesday, the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety Committee adopted its position on the new directive (66 votes in favour, two against and nine abstentions) and regulation (67 votes in favour, six against and seven abstentions) covering medicinal products for human use.
Regulatory data and market protection: incentives for innovation
To reward innovation, MEPs want to introduce a minimum regulatory data protection period (during which other companies cannot access product data) of seven and a half years, in addition to two years of market protection (during which generic, hybrid or biosimilar products cannot be sold), following a marketing authorisation.
Pharmaceutical companies would be eligible for additional periods of data protection if the particular product addresses an unmet medical need (+12 months), if comparative clinical trials are conducted for the product (+6 months), and if a significant share of the product’s research and development takes place in the EU and at least partly in collaboration with EU research entities (+6 months). MEPs also want a cap on the combined data protection period of eight and half years.
A one-time extension (+12 months) of the two-year market protection period could be granted if the company obtains a marketing authorisation for an additional therapeutic indication which provides significant clinical benefits in comparison with existing therapies.
Orphan drugs (medicines developed to treat rare diseases) would benefit from up to 11 years of market exclusivity if they address a “high unmet medical need”.
Step up the fight against antimicrobial resistance (AMR)
MEPs underline the need to boost the research and development of novel antimicrobials, notably through market entry rewards and milestone reward payment schemes (e.g. early-stage financial support upon achieving certain R&D objectives prior to market approval). These would be complemented by a subscription model-based voluntary joint procurement scheme, to encourage investment in antimicrobials.
They agree with the introduction of a “transferable data exclusivity voucher” for priority antimicrobials, providing for a maximum 12 additional months of data protection for an authorised product. The voucher could not be used for a product which has already benefited from maximum regulatory data protection and would be transferable only once to another marketing authorisation holder.
Among the new measures to promote the prudent use of antimicrobials, MEPs want stricter requirements, such as restricting the prescriptions and dispensation to the amount required for the treatment and limiting the duration for which they are prescribed.
Strengthened requirements for environmental risk assessment
These new rules would require companies to submit an environmental risk assessment (ERA) when requesting a marketing authorisation. To ensure adequate evaluation of ERAs, MEPs want the creation, within the European Medicines Agency, of a new ad-hoc environmental risk assessment working party. MEPs insist that the risk mitigation measures (taken to avoid and limit emissions to air, water and soil) should address the entire life cycle of medicines.
Increased independence for EU health emergency body
To effectively address public health challenges and boost European research, MEPs want the European Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Authority (HERA, currently a Commission department) to become a separate structure under the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC). HERA should primarily focus on the fight against the most urgent health threats, including antimicrobial resistance and medicine shortages.
More details on MEPs’ specific proposals are available in this background document.
Quotes
Rapporteur for the directive Pernille Weiss (EPP, DK) said: “The EU pharmaceutical legislation revision is vital for patients, industry and society. Today’s vote is a step towards delivering the tools to tackle present and future healthcare challenges, particularly for our market attractiveness and medicine access across EU countries. We hope Council takes note of our ambition and commitment to create a robust legislative framework, setting the scene for prompt negotiations.”
Rapporteur for the regulation Tiemo Wölken (S&D, DE) said: “This revision paves the way to addressing critical challenges such as medicines shortages and antimicrobial resistance. We are strengthening our healthcare infrastructure and reinforcing our collective resilience ahead of future health crises – a significant milestone in our pursuit of fairer, more accessible healthcare for all Europeans. Measures improving access to medicines, whilst incentivising areas of unmet medical needs, are crucial parts of this reform.”
Next steps
MEPs are scheduled to debate and vote on the Parliament’s position during the 10-11 April 2024 plenary session. The file will be followed up by the new Parliament after the European elections on 6-9 June.
Background
On 26 April 2023, the Commission put forward a “pharmaceutical package” to revise the EU’s pharmaceutical legislation. It includes proposals for a new directive and a new regulation, which aim to make medicines more available, accessible and affordable, while supporting the competitiveness and attractiveness of the EU pharmaceutical industry, with higher environmental standards.
