EURO-LATIN AMERICAN PARLIAMENTARY ASSEMBLY. Committee on Political Affairs, Security and Human Rights

Transcription

1 EURO-LATIN AMERICAN PARLIAMTARY ASSEMBLY Committee on Political Affairs, Security and Human Rights Meeting Tuesday, 16 July 2013, Wednesday, 17 July 2013, Vilnius - Seimas Room: Constitution Room (Building 1) *** AM *** EUAL_POLIT

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3 Euro-Latin American Parliamentary Assembly Asamblea Parlamentaria Euro-Latinoamericana Assemblée Parlementaire Euro-Latino Américaine Assembleia Parlamentar Euro-Latino-Americana Parlamentarische Versammlung Europa-Lateinamerika 1 Committee on Political Affairs, Security and Human Rights DRAFT AGDA Meeting Tuesday, 16 July 2013, Wednesday, 17 July 2013, Vilnius - Seimas Room: Constitution Room (Building 1) Tuesday, 16 July 2013, Adoption of draft agenda 2. Exchange of views with Mr Linas Linkevicius, Foreign Affairs Minister of Lithuania, on the priorities of the Lithuanian Presidency of the European Union (tbc) 3. Possibly, election of members of the committee bureau 4. Approval of minutes of meeting of: 24 January 2013 (Santiago de Chile) PV-AP v Co-chairs announcements 6. Joint motion for a resolution: Citizen participation and democracy in the EU and Latin America EP co-rapporteur: María Irigoyen Pérez (S&D) LAC co-rapporteur: William Vélez (Parlandino) Consideration of amendments 7. Urgent topic: Fight against drugs in the EU and the CELAC Exchange of views with: Ms Déborah Salgado, Ambassador, President of the Coordination and Cooperation Mechanism on Drugs of CELAC Mr Alexis Goosdeel, Head of Unit Reitox and International Cooperation (European Monitoring Centre for Drugs) Dr Bettina Trueb, EU-LAC Foundation OJ\ doc AP101.32v04-00 United in diversity

4 1 Wednesday, 17 July 2013, Joint motion for a resolution: Citizen participation and democracy in the EU and Latin America EP co-rapporteur: María Irigoyen Pérez (S&D) LAC co-rapporteur: William Vélez (Parlandino) Voting 9. Joint motion for a resolution: Transparency and corruption in Europe and Latin America EP co-rapporteur: Renate Weber (ALDE) LAC co-rapporteur: Patricio Zambrano (Parlandino) Exchange of views 10. Any other business 11. Date and place of next meeting AP101.32v /2 OJ\ doc 4 / 11

5 2 LINAS LINKEVIČIUS MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS OF THE REPUBLIC OF LITHUANIA CURRICULUM VITAE PERSONAL INFORMATION Date and place of birth: Marital status: 6 January 1961, Vilnius Married EDUCATION Faculty of Automatics, Kaunas Polytechnic Institute WORK EXPERICE From 13 December 2012 Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Lithuania 2012 Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Lithuania to the Republic of Belarus Ambassador-at-Large, Transatlantic Cooperation and Security Policy Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Lithuania Public consultant of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Lithuania Permanent Representative of Lithuania on the North Atlantic Council Minister of National Defence of the Republic of Lithuania Ambassador, Head of the Lithuanian Mission to both the WEU and NATO 1997 Adviser to the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Lithuania

6 Minister of National Defence of the Republic of Lithuania Deputy Chairman of Parliamentary Commission of Foreign Affairs, Head of Lithuanian Parliamentary delegation to the North Atlantic Assembly Member of the Seimas (Parliament) of the Republic of Lithuania 1992 Chairman of the Council of the Lithuanian Labour Youth Union Responsible employee of the Central Committee of the independent Lithuanian Communist Party, Senior Consultant of the Parliamentary Group of the Democratic Labour Party of Lithuania Employee in Communist Youth Organisations DIPLOMATIC RANK since 2 December, 2003 Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary DECORATIONS 2001 The Order of Three Stars, Third Class (Latvia) 2003 Grand Cross of the Order of the Lithuanian Grand Duke Gediminas 2004 Grand Cross of the Order of the Cross of Vytis 2005 The Order of the Cross of Terra Mariana, Second Class (Estonia) 2011 Order of Honour (Georgia) FOREIGN LANGUAGES English, Russian 6 / 11

7 Asamblea Parlamentaria Euro-Latinoamericana Euro-Latin American Parliamentary Assembly Assemblée Parlementaire Euro-Latino-Américaine Assembleia Parlamentar Euro-Latino-Americana Parlamentarische Versammlung Europa-Lateinamerika 4 Committee on Political Affairs, Security and Human Rights MINUTES of the meeting of 24 January 2013, Santiago, Chile Parliamentary Chamber, Chilean Chamber of Deputies The meeting opened at on 24 January 2013, with the Co-Chairs Agustín Díaz de Mera García Consuegra (PPE, ES) and Gabriela Cuevas (EU-Mexico JPC, PAN) in the chair. 1. Adoption of agenda AP v06-00 The draft agenda was adopted as indicated in the minutes. 2. Election of members to the Committee's Bureau Ms Gabriela Cuevas (EU-Mexico JPC, PAN) had been elected as the Committee s Co-Chair and Mr Roy Daza (Parlatino, Venezuela) as Co-Vice-Chair. 3. Approval of minutes of the last meeting PV-AP v01-00 The minutes of the meeting on 10 November 2012 (Cádiz, Spain) were approved. 4. Joint motion for a resolution: Citizen participation and democracy in the EU and Latin America EP co-rapporteur: María Irigoyen Pérez (S&D) LAC co-rapporteur: William Vélez (Parlandino) PV\ doc Exchange of views The two co-rapporteurs shared their final thoughts on the joint draft motion for a resolution: María Irigoyen Pérez (S&D) reiterated that the demands of citizens had to be met, that democracy had to be reformed where it was not working, an end brought to political corruption and to ever growing inequalities, and solutions found for citizens who wanted to enter more into dialogue. William Vélez (Parlandino) reiterated that swift action showing commitment to AP v01-00 United in diversity

8 4 citizens had to be taken urgently and that there was a huge need for transparency and for citizen-oriented policies. Speakers: Nuno Melo (PPE, PT), Luis De Grandes (PPE, ES), John Attard-Montalto (S&D, MT), Willy Meyer (GUE/NGL, ES), Raul Romeva (Verts, ES) and the co-rapporteurs Maria Irigoyen (S&D, ES) and William Vélez (Parlandino, Colombia) The Co-Chair said that the deadline for tabling amendments would be announced later and that the vote would take place during the committee s next meeting in July Topic for debate: Transparency and corruption in Europe and Latin America EP co-rapporteur: LAC co-rapporteur: Exchange of views Renate Weber (ALDE) Patricio Zambrano (Parlandino, Ecuador) Renate Weber (ALDE) stressed that a broad and accepted definition was needed to cover fully the term corruption. She welcomed both the setting up of the temporary CRIM Committee at the European Parliament, whose work on this subject was closely tied to work on cross-border crime, and progress made towards legislation that would make it possible to punish fraud affecting the EU and to freeze assets obtained from crime, terrorism and corruption. She finished by stressing the following points: need to legislate; creation of institutional capacity; informer protection programme; the question of media ownership; a ban on monopolies to help a genuine market economy; budgetary discharge to monitor public expenditure and signal immediately any incorrect use of said expenditure. As Patricio Zambrano (Parlandino) was absent, his working document should be consulted. Speakers: Jorge Pizarro (EU-Chile JPC), Gesine Meissner (ALDE), Augusto Valle (Parlacen, Nicaragua) and the co-rapporteur Renate Weber. The Co-Chair announced that the two co-rapporteurs working documents would form the basis of a forthcoming joint motion for a resolution to be presented during the committee s next meeting in July Urgent topic: Synergies between the CELAC-EU Summit and the Ibero- American Summit Mr Enrique Iglesias, Secretary-General of SEGIB, spoke on this subject, stressing the following points: These two major summits had many points in common: Firstly, Latin America was the meeting point for many cultures and for many of the AP v /6 PV\ doc / 11

9 values (peace, democracy, respect for human rights) that underpinned both summits. The development model was also something common to both parties. Latin America had followed the welfare state model for very many years. It was the same for the integration process, which was a common platform for the two summits. There were also synergies in key priorities: education, technology and innovation, social cooperation, youth employment, the situation of the elderly and infrastructure. But the most important and topical subject was probably experience of crises, something Latin America was extremely familiar with and which could help the European Union greatly. Lastly, Mr Iglesias wished to send a message to the governements responsible for the two summits, calling on them to agree that the two summits should alternate with one another, thereby avoiding all duplication. Speakers: Ignacio Salafranca (PPE, ES), Roy Daza (Parlatino, Venezuela), Dorindo Cortez (Parlacen, Panama), and Ricardo Cortes Lastra (S&D, ES). The Co-Chair gave the floor back to Mr Iglesias so he could set out his conclusions. Mr Iglesias wished to emphasise that, historically, Euro-Latin American relations had been strengthened over the previous 12 years or so. Moreover, Latin America was part of a dynamic market; it was a major producer of raw materials (foodstuffs, energy, minerals, etc.), a fact that had recently consolidated the region s position on the international stage. On the subject of integration, he added that this was now a reality and that flexibility was required. It was necessary to take the regional integration process deeper, while remaining open and proactive at international level. Lastly, Latin America was making progress on reducing inequalities. This was a problem that affected all countries and other major issues had to be taken into consideration in solving it. For example, current youth problems were strongly linked to inequalities and initiatives targeting young people should be implemented therefore Other business Ms Nicole Sinclaire (MEP) spoke on the Falkland Islands issue, stating that the Treaty of Lisbon recognised the Falkland Islands as a territory of the United Kingdom. The right of people to self-determination also had to be recognised and 100 % of the inhabitants of the Falkland Islands wanted to remain British. Mr Daniel Filmus (Parlasur, Argentine) also spoke on the Falkland Islands, saying that Latin America as a whole wanted to see this disagreement settled through dialogue. He recalled Point 57 of the Montevideo Declaration: We call for negotiations to be resumed between the Governments of the Argentine Republic and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland in order to find as soon as possible a peaceful, just and lasting solution to the dispute over sovereignty, in line with Resolution 2065 (XX) and other relevant resolutions of the United Nations General Assembly on the Falklands Islands; PV\ doc 3/6 AP v01-00

10 4 Speaker: The Co-Chair Agustín Diaz de Mera (PPE, ES).. Date and place of next meeting The next meeting of the Committee on Political Affairs, Security and Human Rights would take place in Europe, in July 2013, in line with the Eurolat Assembly s programme for The meeting adjourned at AP v /6 PV\ doc 10 / 11

11 LISTA DE ASISTCIA / RECORD OF ATTDANCE / LISTE DE PRÉSCE / LISTA DE PRESÇAS 4 PARLATINO: PARLANDINO: PARLAC: PARLASUR: CPM UE-MEXICO: CPM UE-CHILE: PARLAMTO EUROPEO: Miembros EuroLat / EuroLat Members / Membres EuroLat / Membros EuroLat Elias Castillo, Dorindo Cortez, Roy Daza, Tubal Paez, Julio Salazar, Vicente Antonio Zeballos Salinas William Vélez Edgar Dedet, William Hernandez, Gloria Oquelí, Augusto Valle José Bayardi (Co-Vicepresidente), Guillermo Carmona, Daniel Filmus Gabriela Cuevas Barrón (Copresidente), Luis Antonio González Roldán Jorge Pizarro Agustín Díaz de Mera García Consuegra (Copresidente), John Attard-Montalto, Johannes Cornelis van Baalen, Izaskun Bilbao Barandica, António Fernando Correia de Campos, Ricardo Cortés Lastra, Vicente Miguel Garcés Ramón, Luis de Grandes Pascual, María Irigoyen Pérez, Michał Tomasz Kamiński, Gesine Meissner, Nuno Melo, Emilio Menéndez del Valle, Willy Meyer, Tomasz Piotr Poręba, Raül Romeva i Rueda, José Ignacio Salafranca Sánchez-Neyra, Nicole Sinclaire, Renate Weber Por invitación de los Copresidentes / At the invitation of the Co-Chairs / Sur l'invitation des co-présidents / A convite dos Co-Presidentes : Enrique V. Iglesias (Secretario General Iberoamericano SEGIB) Secretaría de los Parlamentos Latinoamericanos / Latin-American Parliaments Secretariat Parlatino Parlandino Parlacen Parlasur Congreso México Senado Chile Humberto Peláez Gutiérrez, Victoria Valencia, Julieta de San Félix Rubén Vélez Nuñez, Pedro Montero Jaime Carreta Roberto Chaparro Secretariado del Parlamento Europeo / European Parliament Secretariat Co-Secretariado EuroLat DG Políticas Externas Asistente Pedro Neves, Julian Conthe Yoldi Anneli König, Rosa-Maria Licop Cabo Secretaría de los Grupos Políticos del PE / EP Political Groups Secretariat PPE S&D ALDE Verdes/ALE Juan Salafranca, Analia Glogowski Jean-François Vallin Itziar Munoa Salaverria Gaby Küppers PV\ doc 5/6 AP v01-00

12 4 ECR GUE/NGL EFD NI Gabriel Beszłej Otros participantes / Other participants Parlamento Europeo Comisión Europea EESC Cuerpo Diplomático Otros Laura Ballarin Cereza, Saray Espejo Benito, Isabel Garcia Tamara, Alexandra Entrena Rovers, Klaas de Boer Paulo Barros Vale Julieta de San Félix, Ada Martínez, Carlos Molina del Pozo (Universidad de Alcalá de Henares), Uli Wacker (Director para América Latina de la Fundación Friedrich Naumann Stiftung, México) AP v /6 PV\ doc 12 / 11

13 Asamblea Parlamentaria Euro-Latinoamericana Euro-Latin American Parliamentary Assembly Assemblée Parlementaire Euro-Latino Américaine Assembleia Parlamentar Euro-Latino-Americana EURO-LATIN AMERICAN PARLIAMTARY ASSEMBLY 6 Committee on Political Affairs, Security and Human Rights PROVISIONAL DRAFT MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION Citizen participation and democracy in Latin America and the European Union EP Co-rapporteur: LAC Co-rapporteur: María Irigoyen Pérez (S&D) William Vélez Mesa (Parlandino) RM\ doc AP v01-00

14 6 Citizen participation and democracy in Latin America and the European Union The Euro-Latin American Parliamentary Assembly, having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU), and in particular Articles 1-25 (Part two) thereof on non-discrimination and citizenship of the Union, having regard to the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, and in particular Chapter V (Articles 39-46) thereof on citizens rights, having regard to Regulation (EU) No 211/2011 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 February 2011 on the citizens initiative, having regard to the declarations made at the six summits of Heads of State or Government of Latin America, the Caribbean and the European Union, held respectively in Rio de Janeiro (2-29 June 1999), Madrid (17-1 May 2002), Guadalajara (2-29 May 2004), Vienna (11-13 May 2006), Lima (15-17 May 200) and Madrid (17-1 May 2010), having regard to the declarations adopted at the 17 Interparliamentary Conferences held between the European Union and Latin America and the Caribbean ( ), having regard to the Commission s 2001 White Paper on Governance, having regard to the Commission s initiatives to encourage citizen participation: Plan D (2006), which sought to increase and deepen the debate on participatory democracy at European level, and the European Citizens Initiative (2010), having regard to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) report Deepening democracy in a fragmented world (New York, UNDP, 2002), having regard to the UNDP report Democracy in Latin America: Toward a Citizens' Democracy (New York, UNDP, 2004), having regard to the UNDP/OAS report the Democracy of Citizenship, an agenda for building citizenship in Latin America (UNDP/OAS, 2009), having regard to the UNDP/OAS report Our Democracy (UNDP/OAS, Mexico, 2010), having regard to the Sixth Report of the Latin American Faculty of Social Sciences (FLACSO) Trust: Basis for Governability and Democratic Coexistence in Latin America and the Caribbean (FLACSO, San Jose, 2010), having regard to the Report of the First International Forum of Santo Domingo, held on 2 and 29 October 2009, entitled Democracy, Equitable Growth and Social Cohesion in Latin America (San José, 2010), having regard to the debates on citizen participation and democracy in Latin America and the European Union held in the Euro-Latin American Parliamentary Assembly (EUROLAT) Committee on Political Affairs, Security and Human Rights on 22 November 2011 in Brussels (Belgium) and 9 November 2012 in Cadiz (Spain), having regard to the working document on citizen participation and democracy in Latin America and the European Union submitted by María Irigoyen Pérez (S&D, AP v /6 RM\ doc 14 / 11

15 Spain) to the Euro-Latin American Parliamentary Assembly Committee on Political Affairs, Security and Human Rights, having regard to the working document on citizen participation and democracy in Latin America and the European Union submitted by William Vélez (Parlandino, Colombia) to the Euro-Latin American Parliamentary Assembly Committee on Political Affairs, Security and Human Rights, 6 A. whereas democracy is a system in which citizens decide who will govern them for a given period on the basis of free, transparent multiparty elections; B. whereas citizenship is understood as a precept of basic equality which, in modern terms, is the equivalent of the rights and obligations that all individuals have by belonging to a national state; C. whereas there is a need to improve the quality of democracy and to reconcile democracy and equality and sustainable development with a view to achieving full civic participation; D. whereas democratic governance and the strengthening of the State, of its institutions and of political parties are prerequisites for democracy and social cohesion; E. whereas representative democracy alone does not necessarily ensure prosperity and equal living conditions for all Latin American and European citizens; F. whereas the public s participation in the political life of their country is an essential prerequisite for the survival of the democratic system; G. whereas a number of political parties are needed in order for citizens to participate in modern democracies; whereas parties are essential for the holding of the regular, transparent elections required under a democratic system of government; H. whereas citizen participation appears to be both a means to an end, by improving the quality of public policies, and an end in itself, i.e. it is both a cause and a consequence of greater social cohesion and, therefore, of a better-quality democracy; I. whereas, in recent years governments, representative institutions, political parties and associations have lost some of their prestige; J. whereas the global economic and financial crisis, the increase in social inequalities, corruption, insecurity, violence, organised crime and the failure to respond to citizens needs all contribute to the public s gradual disaffection with politics and politicians. K. whereas some regimes are continuing to use antidemocratic methods, such as cronyism, closed circles of power, abusing the official media for propaganda purposes, and even repression, thereby diminishing the quality of democracy; L. whereas the European Union and other regions of the world are witnessing a decline in traditional forms of public participation in politics owing both to the fact that political RM\ doc 3/6 AP v01-00

16 6 parties are too closely linked to the State and to the growing importance of new forms of political participation which have emerged as a result of broad social and technological change; M. whereas Latin American political parties were key players in the third democratic wave, and paradoxically, they are currently beset by criticism from society and a loss of voter confidence; N. whereas great strides have been made in promoting and safeguarding political economic and social rights in Latin America in recent decades; O. whereas in Latin America public distrust of political parties stems from their inability to reduce social inequalities, ensure public security and fulfil their election promises; P. whereas the participation of organised civil society (OCS) has become a basic principle of governance; Q. whereas the roles of OCS and political parties remain distinct yet complementary: civil society is a vehicle for citizen participation whilst political parties have a representative role; R. whereas new forms of communication such as the Internet and social networks are powerful tools for the dissemination and public discussion of political and social issues and can be a powerful tool for the dissemination of new issues on the political agenda; 1. Takes the view that in a technologically and commercially integrated world, democratic principles need to acquire practical validity at global level with a view to imbuing globalisation with democracy; 2. Stresses that for a global civil society to emerge and take root, procedures within international and supranational institutions must be made more open, participatory and democratic, with a view to increasing the involvement of developing countries in multilateral organisations and according them greater responsibilities; 3. Calls for measures to promote the active participation of citizens in political life through political parties, civil society and other means of participation conforming to democratic principles; 4. Stresses the need to generate new ways to involve citizens in public discourse and in decision-making processes to counter the representation crisis; 5. Advocates refraining from making systematic use of direct democracy mechanisms such as referenda, which should be used an ad hoc basis in exceptional circumstances; 6. Calls for greater legitimacy to be accorded to State power by fostering democratic governance and modernising State organisations, bringing them closer to the public and ensuring they have sufficient human and financial resources; AP v /6 RM\ doc 16 / 11

17 7. Calls for monitoring and mutual oversight of compliance with the democratic principles of separation and balance between State powers and for the strengthening of national (and supranational) reporting bodies with a view to achieving greater transparency in public administration, to complying with the principle of accountability, and, thereby, to securing greater public trust in the political system;. Believes that citizen participation, political representation and deliberative democracy are not mutually exclusive but complementary concepts; 6 9. Welcomes the paradigmatic model of citizen participation in the collegiate budgetary processes in Latin America, which facilitate investment in human development projects and programmes, and which are currently being implemented in more than municipalities around the world; 10. Recommends promoting best practices such as local participatory budgeting in Latin America, which transfers some public powers from central authorities to local and regional levels with a view to developing a participatory democracy; 11. Stresses the need for effective public policies in the key areas of taxation, social cohesion, social justice and public security that can succeed in improving the image of politics as a whole; 12. Calls for an effective, fair and redistributive tax policy to be implemented, since taxation is crucial in reducing social inequality; 13. Urges states to undertake regular consultations with indigenous, cultural or immigrant minorities whenever decisions affecting them are taken (ILO Convention 169), and to consult with local residents whenever urban planning rules are made or permits are granted for construction projects; 14. Points out that justice must be administered in a fair, timely, efficient and enforceable manner with a view to eradicating impunity and securing greater public confidence in the justice system; 15. Calls for the media to be modernised to ensure a plurality of media sources providing accurate and properly verified information, in accordance with the laws put in place to restrict monopolies and oligopolies: 16. Recommends that governments at various territorial levels put in place electronic channels and interactive social networks through which the general public can make their opinions known because these mechanisms create areas of public freedom and encourage public discussions and participation in parliaments, ministries and town councils; 17. Stresses that these electronic channels are not just used to provide free and open access to official information but also play an interactive role in involving citizens in project design, proposals and public surveys, thus building social cohesion, giving added legitimacy to decisions and strengthening citizens collective identity; 1. Calls for action to address the computer illiteracy of those unfamiliar with new RM\ doc 5/6 AP v01-00

18 6 technologies with a view to facilitating their social and political inclusion and to avoiding their exclusion from democratic debate; 19. Reaffirms its faith in democracy as the form of government for the future, with the introduction of new forms of participation and discussion to enable the new social and cultural movements to express themselves politically; * * * * * 20. Instructs its Co-Presidents to forward this resolution to the Council of the European Union and the European Commission, and to the parliaments of the Member States of the European Union and all the countries of Latin America and the Caribbean, the Latin American Parliament, the Central American Parliament, the Andean Parliament and the Mercosur Parliament, the Secretariat of the Andean Community, the Committee of Permanent Representatives of Mercosur, the Permanent Secretariat of the Latin American Economic System and the Secretaries-General of the Organization of American States, the Union of South American Nations and the United Nations. AP v /6 RM\ doc 1 / 11

19 Euro-Latin American Parliamentary Assembly Asamblea Parlamentaria Euro-Latinoamericana Assemblée Parlementaire Euro-Latino Américaine Assembleia Parlamentar Euro-Latino-Americana Parlamentarische Versammlung Europa-Lateinamerika Committee on Political Affairs, Security and Human Rights 6 AP v AMDMTS María Irigoyen Pérez (S&D), EP co-rapporteur William Vélez Mesa (Parlandino), LAC co-rapporteur (PE v01-00) Citizen participation and democracy in Latin America and the European Union AA\93999.doc PE v02-00

20 6 AM_Com_NonLegReport PE v /74 AA\93999.doc 20 / 11

21 1 Willy Meyer (PE) Paragraph Takes the view that in a technologically and commercially integrated world, democratic principles need to acquire practical validity at global level with a view to imbuing globalisation with democracy; deleted 2 Carlos José Iturgaiz Angulo (PE) Paragraph 1 1. Takes the view that in a technologically and commercially integrated world, democratic principles need to acquire practical validity at global level with a view to imbuing globalisation with democracy; 1. Takes the view that in a globalised world, the implementation of democratic principles needs to acquire practical validity at global level; AA\93999.doc 3/74 PE v02-00

22 6 3 Carlos José Iturgaiz Angulo (PE) Paragraph 2 2.Stresses that for a global civil society to emerge and take root, procedures within international and supranational institutions must be made more open, participatory and democratic, with a view to increasing the involvement of developing countries in multilateral organisations and according them greater responsibilities; 2. Stresses that for civil society to emerge and take root, procedures within national, international and supranational institutions must be made more open, participatory and democratic; 4 Willy Meyer (PE) Paragraph 2 2. Stresses that for a global civil society to emerge and take root, procedures within international and supranational institutions must be made more open, participatory and democratic, with a view to increasing the involvement of developing countries in multilateral organisations and according them greater responsibilities; 2. Stresses that for a global civil society to emerge and take root, procedures within international and supranational institutions must be made more open, participatory and democratic, while the involvement of developing countries in multilateral organisations should be increased and they should be accorded greater responsibilities; PE v /74 AA\93999.doc 22 / 11

23 5 Elías Castillo (Parlatino) Paragraph Stresses that for a global civil society to emerge and take root, procedures within international and supranational institutions must be made more open, participatory and democratic, with a view to increasing the involvement of developing countries in multilateral organisations and according them greater responsibilities; 2. Stresses that for a global civil society to emerge and take root in such a way as to respect and promote national and local cultural manifestations, procedures within international and supranational institutions must be made more open, participatory and democratic, with a view to increasing the involvement of developing countries in multilateral organisations and according them greater responsibilities; 6 Ricardo Cortés Lastra (PE) Paragraph 2 2. Stresses that for a global civil society to emerge and take root, 2. Stresses that for a global civil society to emerge and take root, AA\93999.doc 5/74 PE v02-00

24 6 procedures within international and supranational institutions must be made more open, participatory and democratic, with a view to increasing the involvement of developing countries in multilateral organisations and according them greater responsibilities; procedures within international and supranational institutions must be made more directly participatory, open and democratic, with a view to increasing the involvement of developing countries in multilateral organisations and according them greater responsibilities; 7 Luis Yáñez-Barnuevo García (PE) Paragraph 2 a (new) 2a. Encourages all parts of society to take part in democracy building; acknowledges the vital role played by NGOs and other non-state actors in the promotion of democracy; Carlos José Iturgaiz Angulo (PE) Paragraph 3 3. Calls for measures to promote the active participation of citizens in 3. Calls for measures to promote the active participation of citizens in all PE v /74 AA\93999.doc 24 / 11

25 political life through political parties, civil society and other means of participation conforming to democratic principles; forms of political life through political parties which are more open and accessible to civil society; 6 9 Luis Yáñez-Barnuevo García (PE) Paragraph 3 a (new) 3a. Points out that the authorities have a responsibility to facilitate full citizen participation in political, economic and social life; 10 Izaskun Bilbao Barandica (PE) Paragraph 4 4. Stresses the need to generate new ways to involve citizens in public discourse and in decision-making processes to counter the representation crisis; deleted AA\93999.doc 7/74 PE v02-00

26 6 11 Carlos José Iturgaiz Angulo (PE) Paragraph 4 4. Stresses the need to generate new ways to involve citizens in public discourse and in decision-making processes to counter the representation crisis; 4. Stresses the importance of new ways to involve citizens in public discourse and in decision-making processes as a means of raising political awareness; 12 Izaskun Bilbao Barandica (PE) Apartado 4 a (new) 4a. Calls for the standardisation of the principles of joint open deliberation as part of the decisionmaking process in representative institutions throughout the world, with the emphasis on keeping the public fully informed about it in real time, opening channels for interaction with its representatives and ensuring the transparency thereof, motivating decisions taken on the basis of these deliberative PE v02-00 /74 AA\93999.doc 26 / 11

27 processes and introducing public assessment mechanisms focusing on the objectives of the rules and decisions, detailing result evaluation criteria and setting deadlines for the publication thereof; 6 13 Carlos José Iturgaiz Angulo (PE) Paragraph 5 5. Advocates refraining from making systematic use of direct democracy mechanisms such as referenda, which should be used an ad hoc basis in exceptional circumstances; 5. Notes and reiterates the importance of participatory mechanisms such as popular legislative initiatives, the right of petition or referenda for the purposes of direct citizen participation, which can be used an ad hoc basis; 14 Willy Meyer (PE) Paragraph 5 AA\93999.doc 9/74 PE v02-00

28 6 5. Advocates refraining from making systematic use of direct democracy mechanisms such as referenda, which should be used an ad hoc basis in exceptional circumstances; 5. Advocates making use of direct mechanisms such as referenda, which underpin and legitimise democratic decision making; 15 Willy Meyer (PE) Paragraph 5 a (new) 5a. Regrets the pressure brought to bear by the Troika European Commission, IMF and European Central Bank to prevent the holding of a referendum enabling the peoples of Europe to decide whether or not to accept the conditions imposed by the various memorandums; deplores in particular the pressure brought to bear on Greece in 2011; 16 Elías Castillo (Parlatino) PE v /74 AA\93999.doc 2 / 11

29 Paragraph 6 6. Calls for greater legitimacy to be accorded to State power by fostering democratic governance and modernising State organisations, bringing them closer to the public and ensuring they have sufficient human and financial resources; 6. Calls for greater legitimacy to be accorded to State power by fostering democratic governance and modernising State institutions, bringing them closer to the public and ensuring they have sufficient human and financial resources; 6 17 Luis Yáñez-Barnuevo García (PE) Paragraph 6 a (new) 6a. Stresses that it is essential for citizen participation to take place along democratic lines, making use of established mechanisms, political parties and legitimate democratic institutions representing all citizens; 1 Willy Meyer (PE) Paragraph 6 b (new) AA\93999.doc 11/74 PE v02-00

30 6 6b. Welcomes initiatives such as the Ecuadorean Organic Law on Citizen Participation, the establishment of the Ecuadorean Council for Citizen Participation and Social Control and the Venezuelan Organic Law on Municipal Councils as major steps forward and example to follow in improving citizen participation and enhancing democracy; 19 Carlos José Iturgaiz Angulo (PE) Paragraph 7 7. Calls for monitoring and mutual oversight of compliance with the democratic principles of separation and balance between State powers and for the strengthening of national (and supranational) reporting bodies with a view to achieving greater transparency in public administration, to complying with the principle of accountability, and, thereby, to securing greater public trust in the political system; 7. Calls for stricter oversight of compliance with the democratic principles of separation and balance between State powers and for the strengthening of national (and supranational) reporting bodies with a view to achieving greater transparency in public administration, to complying with the principle of accountability, and, thereby, to securing greater public trust in the political system; PE v /74 AA\93999.doc 30 / 11

31 ; 6 20 Elías Castillo (Parlatino) Paragraph 7 7. Calls for monitoring and mutual oversight of compliance with the democratic principles of separation and balance between State powers and for the strengthening of national (and supranational) reporting bodies with a view to achieving greater transparency in public administration, to complying with the principle of accountability, and, thereby, to securing greater public trust in the political system; 7. Calls for monitoring and mutual oversight of compliance with the democratic principles of separation and balance between State powers and for the strengthening of national (and supranational) reporting bodies with a view to achieving full transparency in public administration, to complying with the principle of accountability, and, thereby, to securing greater public trust in the political system; 21 Willy Meyer (PE) Paragraph 7 a (new) 7a. Stresses that, to underpin its legitimacy, the State must focus its activities on respect for human AA\93999.doc 13/74 PE v02-00

32 6 rights, in particular economic, social and cultural rights, given that the public can only identify fully with the State if it sees that these rights are being implemented in their entirety; 22 Carlos José Iturgaiz Angulo (PE) Paragraph. Believes that citizen participation, political representation and deliberative democracy are not mutually exclusive but complementary concepts;. Believes that political representation will be enriched by a high level of citizen participation resulting from deliberative democracy; 23 Carlos José Iturgaiz Angulo (PE) Paragraph 9 9. Welcomes the paradigmatic model of citizen participation in the deleted PE v /74 AA\93999.doc 32 / 11

33 collegiate budgetary processes in Latin America, which facilitate investment in human development projects and programmes, and which are currently being implemented in more than municipalities around the world; 6 24 Carlos José Iturgaiz Angulo (PE) Paragraph Recommends promoting best practices such as local participatory budgeting in Latin America, which transfers some public powers from central authorities to local and regional levels with a view to developing a participatory democracy; 10. Recommends promoting best practices such as municipal participatory budgeting in Latin America, so as to transfer some public powers from central authorities to local and regional levels with a view to developing a more participatory democracy relating more closely to the public, while consistently respecting the principle of subsidiarity; 25 Willy Meyer (PE) Paragraph 10 AA\93999.doc 15/74 PE v02-00

34 6 10. Recommends promoting best practices such as local participatory budgeting in Latin America, which transfers some public powers from central authorities to local and regional levels with a view to developing a participatory democracy; 10. Recommends promoting best practices such as local participatory budgeting in Latin America and the European Union, which transfers some public powers from central authorities to local and regional levels with a view to developing a participatory democracy; 26 Izaskun Bilbao Barandica (PE) Paragraph Stresses the need for effective public policies in the key areas of taxation, social cohesion, social justice and public security that can succeed in improving the image of politics as a whole; deleted 27 Carlos José Iturgaiz Angulo (PE) Paragraph 11 PE v /74 AA\93999.doc 34 / 11

35 11. Stresses the need for effective public policies in the key areas of taxation, social cohesion, social justice and public security that can succeed in improving the image of politics as a whole; 11. Stresses the need for effective public policies in the key areas of taxation, social cohesion, social justice and civilian security that can succeed in improving the image of politics as a whole; 6 2 Ricardo Cortés Lastra (PE) Paragraph Stresses the need for effective public policies in the key areas of taxation, social cohesion, social justice and public security that can succeed in improving the image of politics as a whole; 29 Willy Meyer (PE) Paragraph 11 a (new) Amendement 11. Stresses the need for effective public policies in the key areas of taxation, social cohesion, social justice and public security that can succeed in improving the quality of life for its inhabitants and the image of politics as a whole; 11a. Calls for the development, enhancement and review of direct democracy mechanisms in all AA\93999.doc 17/74 PE v02-00

36 6 sectors of society such as education, health, social services, etc; considers that comprehensive use of these mechanisms could be an effective way of improving management and public oversight; considers essential the recognition of existing instruments such as university governing bodies, parentteacher associations, etc;. 30 Izaskun Bilbao Barandica (PE) Paragraph 11 b (new) 11b. Stresses that openness of public institutions must imply maximum transparency and participation, focusing on information and clarification regarding decisions adopted on crucial issues, so as to facilitate coexistence and social harmony in areas such as human rights, taxation or the organisation and regulation of basic social services and education; PE v /74 AA\93999.doc 36 / 11

37 31 Izaskun Bilbao Barandica (PE) Paragraph Calls for an effective, fair and redistributive tax policy to be implemented, since taxation is crucial in reducing social inequality; deleted 32 Carlos José Iturgaiz Angulo (PE) Paragraph Calls for an effective, fair and redistributive tax policy to be implemented, since taxation is crucial in reducing social inequality; 12. Calls for an effective, fair and redistributive tax policy to be implemented, since taxation is crucial in reducing social inequality and important for increased competitiveness; 33 Izaskun Bilbao Barandica (PE) Paragraph 13 AA\93999.doc 19/74 PE v02-00

38 6 13. Urges states to undertake regular consultations with indigenous, cultural or immigrant minorities whenever decisions affecting them are taken (ILO Convention 169), and to consult with local residents whenever urban planning rules are made or permits are granted for construction projects; deleted 34 Willy Meyer (PE) Paragraph Urges states to undertake regular consultations with indigenous, cultural or immigrant minorities whenever decisions affecting them are taken (ILO Convention 169), and to consult with local residents whenever urban planning rules are made or permits are granted for construction projects; 13. Urges states to undertake regular consultations with indigenous, cultural or immigrant minorities whenever decisions affecting them are taken (ILO Convention 169), and to consult with local residents whenever urban planning rules are made or permits are granted for construction projects; urges the European Union Member States also to introduce, encourage and promote equivalent consultation mechanisms and calls for their decisions to be respected; PE v /74 AA\93999.doc 3 / 11

39 6 35 Carlos José Iturgaiz Angulo (PE) Paragraph Urges states to undertake regular consultations with indigenous, cultural or immigrant minorities whenever decisions affecting them are taken (ILO Convention 169), and to consult with local residents whenever urban planning rules are made or permits are granted for construction projects; 13. Considers that, in a democracy, legislators must be aware of the possible repercussions of their decisions for the public; urges states accordingly to consult indigenous, cultural or immigrant minorities whenever decisions affecting them are taken (ILO Convention 169); 36 Izaskun Bilbao Barandica (PE) Paragraph 13 a (new) 13a. Urges states to respect national minorities and not restrict their enjoyment of fundamental rights or their participation in public affairs; urges the states to reflect on what it means to be a nation in the twenty-first century in the light of the deliberations of the AA\93999.doc 21/74 PE v02-00

40 6 Council of Europe Parliamentary Assembly; 37 Luis Yáñez-Barnuevo García (PE) Paragraph 13 b (new) 13b. Calls for measures to promote sustained dialogue with civil society and public bodies at every administrative level and support active citizen participation, especially among young people; 3 Jürgen Klute (PE) Paragraph Points out that justice must be administered in a fair, timely, efficient and enforceable manner with a view to eradicating impunity and securing greater public confidence in the justice system; 14. Points out that justice must be administered in an independent, fair, timely, efficient and enforceable manner with a view to eradicating impunity and securing greater public confidence in the justice system; PE v /74 AA\93999.doc 40 / 11

41 39 Sonia Escudero (Parlatino) Paragraph Points out that justice must be administered in a fair, timely, efficient and enforceable manner with a view to eradicating impunity and securing greater public confidence in the justice system; 14. Points out that justice must be administered in an independent, fair, timely, efficient and enforceable manner with a view to eradicating impunity and securing greater public confidence in the justice system; 40 Elías Castillo (Parlatino) Paragraph Points out that justice must be administered in a fair, timely, efficient and enforceable manner with a view to eradicating impunity and securing greater public confidence in the justice system; 14. Points out that justice must be administered in an equitable, timely, efficient and enforceable manner with a view to eradicating impunity and securing greater public confidence in the justice system; AA\93999.doc 23/74 PE v02-00

42 6 41 Carlos José Iturgaiz Angulo (PE) Paragraph Points out that justice must be administered in a fair, timely, efficient and enforceable manner with a view to eradicating impunity and securing greater public confidence in the justice system; 14. Points out that justice must be administered in a fair, prompt and efficient manner with a view to eradicating impunity and securing greater public confidence in the justice system; 42 Willy Meyer (PE) Paragraph Points out that justice must be administered in a fair, timely, efficient and enforceable manner with a view to eradicating impunity and securing greater public confidence in the justice system; 14. Points out that justice must be administered in a fair, timely, efficient and enforceable manner with a view to eradicating impunity and securing greater public confidence in the justice system; points out that states must guarantee full access to justice free of charge and without restrictions being imposed for any reason whatsoever; PE v /74 AA\93999.doc 42 / 11

43 43 Izaskun Bilbao Barandica (PE) Paragraph Calls for the media to be modernised to ensure a plurality of media sources providing accurate and properly verified information, in accordance with the laws put in place to restrict monopolies and oligopolies: deleted 44 Carlos José Iturgaiz Angulo (PE) Paragraph Calls for the media to be modernised to ensure a plurality of media sources providing accurate and properly verified information, in accordance with the laws put in place to restrict monopolies and oligopolies; 15. Considers that the most advanced democracies are characterised by more modern, more independent and freer media providing accurate and properly verified information and by restrictions on the formation of monopolies and oligopolies in the supply of information; AA\93999.doc 25/74 PE v02-00

44 6 45 Izaskun Bilbao Barandica (PE) Paragraph 15 a (new) 15a. Urges the media to rethink their purpose, clearly focusing on specialist interpretation and analysis of the plethora of available information, while tracking down and reporting on stories of human and social interest; deplores the impact of the crisis on this sector, which is a cornerstone of individual freedoms and calls for the media to be made more independent of the power structures most firmly anchored in Establishment traditions. 46 Izaskun Bilbao Barandica (PE) Paragraph Recommends that governments at various territorial levels put in place electronic channels and interactive social networks through deleted PE v /74 AA\93999.doc 44 / 11

45 which the general public can make their opinions known because these mechanisms create areas of public freedom and encourage public discussions and participation in parliaments, ministries and town councils; 6 47 Carlos José Iturgaiz Angulo (PE) Paragraph Recommends that governments at various territorial levels put in place electronic channels and interactive social networks through which the general public can make their opinions known because these mechanisms create areas of public freedom and encourage public discussions and participation in parliaments, ministries and town councils; 16. Stresses the importance of electronic channels and interactive social networks through which the general public can make their opinions known because these mechanisms create areas of political freedom and debate; and encourage public discussions and participation in political activity and in society in general; 4 Izaskun Bilbao Barandica (PE) Paragraph 16 a (new) AA\93999.doc 27/74 PE v02-00

46 6 16a. Notes that the local and regional authorities, being traditionally close the public, are eminently well placed to test out political innovation and calls for the introduction of observatories and exchanges of good practices to document and consolidate the knowledge acquired in this field following standard procedures similar to those tested by the United Nations IT4all regions initiative or the Global Centre for Information and Communication Technologies in Parliament (ICTP); 49 Izaskun Bilbao Barandica (PE) Paragraph Stresses that these electronic channels are not just used to provide free and open access to official information but also play an interactive role in involving citizens in project design, proposals and public surveys, thus building social cohesion, giving added legitimacy to decisions and strengthening citizens collective identity; deleted PE v /74 AA\93999.doc 46 / 11

47 6 50 Carlos José Iturgaiz Angulo (PE) Paragraph Stresses that these electronic channels are not just used to provide free and open access to official information but also play an interactive role in involving citizens in project design, proposals and public surveys, thus building social cohesion, giving added legitimacy to decisions and strengthening citizens collective identity; 17. Urges that these electronic channels not just be used to provide free and open access to official information but also play an interactive role in involving citizens in project design, proposals and public surveys, thus building social cohesion, giving added legitimacy to decisions and strengthening citizens identity; 51 Izaskun Bilbao Barandica (PE) Paragraph 17 a (new) 17a. Stresses that the use of new technologies in public affairs for disseminating propaganda instead of promoting transparency and participation is a common error which hampers political innovation and discourages citizen participation; AA\93999.doc 29/74 PE v02-00

48 6 52 Carlos José Iturgaiz Angulo (PE) Paragraph 1 1. Calls for action to address the computer illiteracy of those unfamiliar with new technologies with a view to facilitating their social and political inclusion and to avoiding their exclusion from democratic debate; 1. Recommends that those who have no access to new technologies be trained as a form of social and political inclusion and a way of avoiding their exclusion from these new instruments of democratic debate; 53 Jürgen Klute (PE) Paragraph 1 1. Calls for action to address the computer illiteracy of those unfamiliar with new technologies with a view to facilitating their social and political inclusion and to avoiding their exclusion from democratic debate; 1. Calls for action to address the computer illiteracy of those unfamiliar with new technologies and the digital divide affecting those who do not have access to them, with a view to facilitating their social and political inclusion and to avoiding their exclusion from PE v /74 AA\93999.doc 4 / 11

49 54 Carlos José Iturgaiz Angulo (PE) Paragraph 19 democratic debate; Reaffirms its faith in democracy as the form of government for the future, with the introduction of new forms of participation and discussion to enable the new social and cultural movements to express themselves politically; 19. Reaffirms its faith in democracy as the only form of government and political participation enabling citizens to express themselves politically through their legitimate elected representatives; 55 Jürgen Klute (PE) Paragraph Reaffirms its faith in democracy as the form of government for the future, with the introduction of new forms of participation and discussion to enable the new social and cultural movements to express themselves politically; 19. Reaffirms its faith in democratic rule as a form of government, with the introduction of new forms of participation and discussion to enable the new social and cultural movements to express themselves politically; AA\93999.doc 31/74 PE v02-00

50 6 56 Sonia Escudero (Parlatino) Paragraph Reaffirms its faith in democracy as the form of government, with the introduction of new forms of participation and discussion to enable the new social and cultural movements to express themselves politically; 19. Reaffirms its faith in democratic rule as a form of government, with the introduction of new forms of participation and discussion to enable the new social and cultural movements to express themselves politically; 57 Jürgen Klute (PE) Paragraph 19 a (new) 19a. Recommends the ratification of political party funding laws stipulating equal access to funding and equal campaigning conditions and penalising embezzlement and the misappropriation of funds; PE v /74 AA\93999.doc 50 / 11

51 5 Sonia Escudero (Parlatino) Paragraph 19 b (new) 6 19b. Recommends the ratification of political party funding laws stipulating equal access to funding and equal campaigning conditions and penalising embezzlement and the misappropriation of funds; 59 Willy Meyer (PE) Paragraph 19 c (new) 19c. Expresses its concern at the abandonment of democratic values on the part of many European Union Member States which are prohibiting and clamping down on various forms of active and peaceable democratic participation instead of encouraging them by providing adequate funding; AA\93999.doc 33/74 PE v02-00

52 6 60 Jürgen Klute (PE) Paragraph 19 d (new) 19d. Calls for measures to step up dialogue, participation and monitoring by representative bodies such as parliament and congresses for the purposes of regional integration, taking account of the contributions of civil society organisations; 61 Sonia Escudero (Parlatino) Paragraph 19 e (new) 19e. Calls for measures to step up dialogue, participation and monitoring by representative bodies such as parliament and congresses for the purpose of regional integration, taking account of the contributions of civil society organisations; PE v /74 AA\93999.doc 52 / 11

53 62 Willy Meyer (PE) Paragraph 19 f (new) 6 19f. Takes the view that, to guarantee the independence of the Guatemalan justice system, it is necessary to uphold the previously overturned conviction of General José Efraín Ríos Montt; 63 Jürgen Klute (PE) Paragraph 19 g (new) 19g. Reaffirms its attachment to civil society participation in the Euro-Latin American Parliamentary Assembly through the holding of regular meetings and the distribution to its members of recommendations from these organisations; AA\93999.doc 35/74 PE v02-00

54 6 64 Sonia Escudero (Parlatino) Paragraph 19 h (new) 19h. Reaffirms its attachment to civil society participation in the Euro-Latin American Parliamentary Assembly through the holding of regular meetings and the distribution to its members of recommendations from these organisations; 65 Willy Meyer (PE) Paragraph 19 i (new) 19i. Asserts that the legal proceedings to try crimes by USsupported Latin-American dictatorships in the twentieth century are of pivotal importance to setting the historical record straight and guaranteeing the defence of human rights; PE v /74 AA\93999.doc 54 / 11

55 66 Jürgen Klute (PE) Paragraph 19 j (new) 6 19j. Calls for the establishment within the Euro-Latin American Parliamentary Assembly of a mechanism for the monitoring of the Association Agreements signed by its members, assessing the impact thereof and tabling regular reports to the implementing bodies in cooperation with civil society; 67 Sonia Escudero (Parlatino) Paragraph 19 k (new) 19k. Calls for the establishment within the Euro-Latin American Parliamentary Assembly of a mechanism for the monitoring of the Association Agreements signed by its members, assessing the impact thereof and tabling regular reports to the implementing bodies in cooperation with civil society; AA\93999.doc 37/74 PE v02-00

56 6 6 Willy Meyer (PE) Paragraph 19 l (new) 19l. Urges that attachment to human rights and democracy be accompanied by measures to set the historical record straight in both Latin America and a number of European Union Member States which have not yet investigated crimes committed during military dictatorships; 69 Willy Meyer (PE) Paragraph 19 m (new) 19m. Calls on the states to condemn the most recent coups against the legitimate governments of Honduras and Paraguay and the abandonment of democratic values in these countries; considers it PE v /74 AA\93999.doc 56 / 11

57 possible to adopt a firm stance against such political coups in Latin America; 6 70 Willy Meyer (PE) Paragraph 19 n (new) 19n. Recommends that the Member States review the methods of government security forces with a view to preventing violent repression and establishing where responsibility lies whenever this does occur as a means of protecting and promoting active citizen participation; 71 Izaskun Bilbao Barandica (PE) Recital A AA\93999.doc 39/74 PE v02-00

58 6 A. whereas democracy is a system in which citizens decide who will govern them for a given period on the basis of free, transparent multiparty elections; deleted 72 Sonia Escudero (Parlatino) Recital A A. whereas democracy is a system in which citizens decide who will govern them for a given period on the basis of free, transparent multiparty elections; A. whereas democracy is a system in which access to leading government posts is the result of competitive and institutionalised elections with the existence during and between them of political freedoms, such as freedom of association, expression and movement and access to information through channels not monopolised by the State or by private bodies, thereby ensuring a maximum level of freedom and equality; 73 Willy Meyer (PE) PE v /74 AA\93999.doc 5 / 11

59 Recital A A. whereas democracy is a system in which citizens decide who will govern them for a given period on the basis of free, transparent multiparty elections; A. whereas democracy is a system in which citizens effectively participate in the decision-making process and are able to decide who will govern them for a given period on the basis of free, transparent multiparty elections; 6 74 Elías Castillo (Parlatino) Recital A A. whereas democracy is a system in which citizens decide who will govern them for a given period on the basis of free, transparent multiparty elections; A. whereas democracy is a system in which citizens decide who will govern them for a given period on the basis of free, transparent multiparty elections facilitating the effective participation of civil society in development and related government processes; 75 Izaskun Bilbao Barandica (PE) AA\93999.doc 41/74 PE v02-00

60 6 Recital A a (new) Aa. whereas representative democracy based on free, pluralist and transparent elections offers enormous scope for improvement by means of ongoing public involvement in the deliberative and decision-making processes of government bodies through transparency and participation; 76 Izaskun Bilbao Barandica (PE) Recital B B. whereas citizenship is understood as a precept of basic equality which, in modern terms, is the equivalent of the rights and obligations that all individuals have by belonging to a national state; deleted 77 Carlos José Iturgaiz Angulo (PE) PE v /74 AA\93999.doc 60 / 11

61 Recital B B. whereas citizenship is understood as a precept of basic equality which, in modern terms, is the equivalent of the rights and obligations that all individuals have by belonging to a national state; B. whereas the concept of citizenship means guarantees of basic equality which, in modern terms, places on an equal footing the rights and obligations that all individuals have by belonging to a national state; 6 7 Elías Castillo (Parlatino) Recital B B. whereas citizenship is understood as a precept of basic equality which, in modern terms, is the equivalent of the rights and obligations that all individuals have by belonging to a national state; B. whereas citizenship is understood as a basic precept of equality which, in modern terms, is the equivalent of the rights and obligations that all individuals have by belonging to a national state; 79 Izaskun Bilbao Barandica (PE) Recital B a (new) AA\93999.doc 43/74 PE v02-00

62 6 Ba. whereas the rights of citizens as a community are based on their individual identity, the extent of their basic rights being defined at global level by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and at European level by the Charter of Fundamental Rights contained in the Lisbon Treaty; whereas no limits or restrictions may be placed on enjoyment of these rights by virtue of nationality; 0 Izaskun Bilbao Barandica (PE) Recital B b (new) Bb. whereas national identity is an individual right and not the key to accessing the entire range of fundamental rights; 1 Willy Meyer (PE) PE v /74 AA\93999.doc 62 / 11

63 Recital C C. whereas there is a need to improve the quality of democracy and to reconcile democracy and equality and sustainable development with a view to achieving full civic participation; C. whereas there is a need to improve the quality of democracy through greater citizen participation in decision making and to reconcile democracy and equality and sustainable development with a view to achieving full civic participation; 6 2 Elías Castillo (Parlatino) Recital C C. whereas there is a need to improve the quality of democracy and to reconcile democracy and equality and sustainable development with a view to achieving full civic participation; C. whereas there is a need to improve the quality of democracy and to reconcile democracy and equity and sustainable development with a view to achieving full civic participation; 3 Izaskun Bilbao Barandica (PE) Recital E AA\93999.doc 45/74 PE v02-00

64 6 E. whereas representative democracy alone does not necessarily ensure prosperity and equal living conditions for all Latin American and European citizens; deleted 4 Carlos José Iturgaiz Angulo (PE) Recital E E. whereas representative democracy alone does not necessarily ensure prosperity and equal living conditions for all Latin American and European citizens; E. whereas democracy alone as a form of government does not necessarily ensure prosperity and wellbeing for all citizens, although it should guarantee equal opportunities; 5 Willy Meyer (PE) Recital E E. whereas representative democracy alone does not E. whereas democracy alone does not necessarily ensure prosperity and PE v /74 AA\93999.doc 64 / 11

65 necessarily ensure prosperity and equal living conditions for all Latin American and European citizens; equal living conditions for all Latin American and European citizens; 6 6 Eliás Castillo (Parlatino) Recital E E. whereas representative democracy alone does not necessarily ensure prosperity and equal living conditions for all Latin American and European citizens; E. whereas representative democracy alone does not necessarily ensure prosperity and equal living conditions for all Latin American and European citizens and progress towards genuine democratic participation is necessary; 7 Izaskun Bilbao Barandica (PE) Recital E a (new) Ea. whereas citizen participation provides an opportunity to improve government decision-making processes, factoring in all available knowledge and promoting the concept of joint responsibility in the running of public affairs; AA\93999.doc 47/74 PE v02-00

66 6 Willy Meyer (PE) Recital F F. whereas the public s participation in the political life of their country is an essential prerequisite for the survival of the democratic system; F. whereas the public s participation in the decision-making processes of their country is an essential prerequisite for the survival of the democratic system; 9 Carlos José Iturgaiz Angulo (PE) Recital F F. whereas the public s participation in the political life of their country is an essential prerequisite for the survival of the democratic system; F. whereas the public s participation in political life is a prerequisite for the survival and proper functioning of the democratic system; 90 Luis Yáñez-Barnuevo García (PE) PE v /74 AA\93999.doc 66 / 11

67 Recital F a (new) Fa. whereas the greater the level of citizen participation in the political processes of a country, the more democratic its system; 6 91 Izaskun Bilbao Barandica (PE) Recital G G. whereas a number of political parties are needed in order for citizens to participate in modern democracies; whereas parties are essential for the holding of the regular, transparent elections required under a democratic system of government; deleted 92 Izaskun Bilbao Barandica (PE) Recital G a (new) AA\93999.doc 49/74 PE v02-00

68 6 Ga. whereas traditional electoral processes can be accompanied by real-time oversight of government decision making, which must provide a channel of expression for not only the parties with the institutional representative status bestowed on them by elections, but also social partners of every type; 93 Izaskun Bilbao Barandica (PE) Recital G b (new) Gb. whereas this acceptance of participation enhances the value of representative democracy, strengthening its role as an arbiter, enabling it to intercede more actively between different interests and assume its responsibility for defining the common good; 94 Izaskun Bilbao Barandica (PE) PE v /74 AA\93999.doc 6 / 11

69 Recital G c (new) Gc. whereas this calls for a reformulation of the purpose and philosophy behind the institutions, accompanied by a new approach and suitable training for those called on to represent them; functions; 6 95 Luis Yáñez-Barnuevo García (PE) Recital G d (new) Gd. whereas democratisation and citizen participation may help consolidate freer and more effective government, is a vital instrument for the improvement of governance and should be a cornerstone of the political process in any society; 96 Willy Meyer (PE) AA\93999.doc 51/74 PE v02-00

70 6 Recital H H. whereas citizen participation appears to be both a means to an end, by improving the quality of public policies, and an end in itself, i.e. it is both a cause and a consequence of greater social cohesion and, therefore, of a better-quality democracy; H. whereas citizen participation, which is essential to democracy, appears to be both a means to an end, by improving the quality of public policies, and an end in itself, i.e. it is both a cause and a consequence of greater social cohesion and, therefore, of a better-quality democracy; 97 Izaskun Bilbao Barandica (PE) Recital I I. whereas, in recent years governments, representative institutions, political parties and associations have lost some of their prestige; deleted 9 Willy Meyer (PE) Recital I PE v /74 AA\93999.doc 70 / 11

71 6 I. whereas, in recent years governments, representative institutions, political parties and associations have lost some of their prestige; deleted 99 Carlos José Iturgaiz Angulo (PE) Recital I I. whereas, in recent years governments, representative institutions, political parties and associations have lost some of their prestige; I. whereas, in recent years essential components of democratic systems, such as governments, representative institutions, political parties and associations have lost some of their support within society; 100 Jürgen Klute (PE) Recital I AA\93999.doc 53/74 PE v02-00

72 6 I. whereas, in recent years governments, representative institutions, political parties and associations have lost some of their prestige; I. whereas, in recent years governments, representative institutions, political parties and associations have been at risk of losing prestige if they fail to adapt to social change; 101 Sonia Escudero (Parlatino) Recital I I. whereas, in recent years governments, representative institutions, political parties and associations have lost some of their prestige; I. whereas, in recent years governments representative institutions, political parties and associations have been at risk of losing prestige if they fail to adapt to social change; 102 Izaskun Bilbao Barandica (PE) Recital I a (new) Ia. whereas in recent years, representative institutions, PE v /74 AA\93999.doc 72 / 11

73 governments, parties, the social partners and political figures have failed to apply consistently these new concepts of governance and have too often made use of ITCs and the opportunities they offer as instruments of propaganda rather than deliberation; Carlos José Iturgaiz Angulo (PE) Recital J J. whereas the global economic and financial crisis, the increase in social inequalities, corruption, insecurity, violence, organised crime and the failure to respond to citizens needs all contribute to the public s gradual disaffection with politics and politicians. J. whereas the global economic and financial crisis, the increase in social inequalities, corruption and the failure to respond to citizens needs all contribute to the public s gradual disaffection with politics and politicians; whereas problems such as growing violence, insecurity and organised crime are striking fear into the hearts of citizens, driving them away from politics; 104 Willy Meyer (PE) AA\93999.doc 55/74 PE v02-00

74 6 Recital J J. whereas the global economic and financial crisis, the increase in social inequalities, corruption, insecurity, violence, organised crime and the failure to respond to citizens needs all contribute to the public s gradual disaffection with politics and politicians. J. whereas the global economic and financial crisis, the increase in social and economic inequalities, corruption, insecurity, violence, organised crime and the failure to respond to citizens needs all contribute to the public s gradual disaffection with politics and politicians. 105 Eliás Castillo (Parlatino) Recital J J. whereas the global economic and financial crisis, the increase in social inequalities, corruption, insecurity, violence, organised crime and the failure to respond to citizens needs all contribute to the public s gradual disaffection with politics and politicians. J. whereas the global economic and financial crisis, the increase in social inequalities, corruption, insecurity, violence, organised crime, human rights infringements and environmental pollution and the failure to respond to citizens needs all contribute to the public s gradual disaffection with politics and politicians. 106 Izaskun Bilbao Barandica (PE) PE v /74 AA\93999.doc 74 / 11

75 Recital K 6 K. whereas some regimes are continuing to use antidemocratic methods, such as cronyism, closed circles of power, abusing the official media for propaganda purposes, and even repression, thereby diminishing the quality of democracy; deleted 107 Carlos José Iturgaiz Angulo (PE) Recital K K. whereas some regimes are continuing to use antidemocratic methods, such as cronyism, closed circles of power, abusing the official media for propaganda purposes, and even repression, thereby diminishing the quality of democracy; K. whereas certain practices arising in a number of democracies, such as nepotism or the elitist and arbitrary exercise of power for personal gain, or the use and abuse of the media are reprehensible and restrict or undermine the quality of democracy; AA\93999.doc 57/74 PE v02-00

76 6 10 Willy Meyer (PE) Recital K K. whereas some regimes are continuing to use antidemocratic methods, such as cronyism, closed circles of power, abusing the official media for propaganda purposes, and even repression, thereby diminishing the quality of democracy; K. whereas the governments of some countries are using antidemocratic methods, such as influence-peddling, closed circles of power, bribery, abusing the media for propaganda purposes, and even repression, thereby diminishing the quality of democracy; 109 Jürgen Klute (PE) Recital K K. whereas some regimes are continuing to use antidemocratic methods, such as cronyism, closed circles of power, abusing the official media for propaganda purposes, and even repression, thereby diminishing the quality of democracy; K. whereas some governments are continuing to use antidemocratic methods, such as patronage, cronyism, closed circles of power, abusing the media for propaganda purposes, and even repression, thereby diminishing the quality of democracy; PE v /74 AA\93999.doc 76 / 11

77 110 Sonia Escudero (Parlatino) Recital K 6 K. whereas some regimes are continuing to use antidemocratic methods, such as cronyism, closed circles of power, abusing the official media for propaganda purposes, and even repression, thereby diminishing the quality of democracy; K. whereas some governments are continuing to use antidemocratic methods, such as patronage, cronyism, closed circles of power, abusing the official media for propaganda purposes, corruption and even repression, thereby diminishing the quality of democracy; 111 Elías Castillo (Parlatino) Recital K K. whereas some regimes are continuing to use antidemocratic methods, such as cronyism, closed circles of power, abusing the official media for propaganda purposes, and even repression, thereby diminishing the quality of democracy; K. whereas some governments are continuing to use antidemocratic methods, such as cronyism, closed circles of power, abusing the official media for propaganda purposes, and even repression, thereby diminishing the quality of democracy; AA\93999.doc 59/74 PE v02-00

78 6 112 Izaskun Bilbao Barandica (PE) Recital K a (new) Ka. whereas interferences with the division of powers, economic circumstances restricting the freedom of the media and the erosion of democratic standards are undermining public freedoms; 113 Carlos José Iturgaiz Angulo (PE) Recital L L. whereas the European Union and other regions of the world are witnessing a decline in traditional forms of citizen participation in politics owing both to the fact that political parties are too closely linked to the State and to the growing importance of new forms of political participation which have emerged as a result of broad social and technological change; L. whereas the poor impression created by political parties in the European Union and other regions of the world is resulting in disaffection and a decline in traditional forms of citizen participation in politics; whereas new forms of political participation are accordingly emerging as a result of the opportunities created by the appearance of new social networks and other social and technological changes; PE v /74 AA\93999.doc 7 / 11

79 6 114 Willy Meyer (PE) Recital L L. whereas the European Union and other regions of the world are witnessing a decline in traditional forms of citizen participation in politics owing both to the fact that political parties are too closely linked to the State and to the growing importance of new forms of political participation which have emerged as a result of broad social and technological change; L. whereas the European Union and other regions of the world are witnessing a decline in traditional forms of citizen participation in politics owing both to the fact that the policies being followed by the majority of governments are failing to solve the principal problems facing their citizens and to the growing importance of new forms of political participation which have emerged as a result of broad social and technological change; 115 Sonia Escudero (Parlatino) Recital L L. whereas the European Union and other regions of the world are witnessing a decline in traditional forms of citizen participation in politics owing both to the fact that political parties are too closely L. whereas the growing importance of new forms of political participation has emerged as a result of broad social and technological change; AA\93999.doc 61/74 PE v02-00

80 6 linked to the State and to the growing importance of new forms of political participation which have emerged as a result of broad social and technological change; 116 Elías Castillo (Parlatino) Recital K L. whereas the European Union and other regions of the world are witnessing a decline in traditional forms of citizen participation in politics owing both to the fact that political parties are too closely linked to the State and to the growing importance of new forms of political participation which have emerged as a result of broad social and technological change; L. whereas the European Union and other regions of the world are witnessing a decline in traditional forms of citizen participation in politics owing both to the fact that political parties are too closely linked to the Government and to the growing importance of new forms of political participation which have emerged as a result of broad social and technological change; 117 Willy Meyer (PE) Recital L a (new) PE v /74 AA\93999.doc 0 / 11

81 6 La. whereas under many regimes formally considered as democracies, democratic participation is being undermined and democratic channels of social dialogue increasingly restricted; 11 Willy Meyer (PE) Recital M M. whereas Latin American political parties were key players in the third democratic wave, and paradoxically, they are currently beset by criticism from society and a loss of voter confidence; deleted 119 Jürgen Klute (PE) Recital M M. whereas Latin American political M. whereas political parties have AA\93999.doc 63/74 PE v02-00

82 6 parties were key players in the third democratic wave, and paradoxically, they are currently beset by criticism from society and a loss of voter confidence; been key players in the third democratic wave, and paradoxically, they are currently beset by criticism from society and a loss of voter confidence; 120 Sonia Escudero (Parlatino) Recital M M. whereas Latin American political parties were key players in the third democratic wave, and paradoxically, they are currently beset by criticism from society and a loss of voter confidence; M. whereas political parties have been key players in the third democratic wave, and paradoxically, they are currently beset by criticism from society and a loss of voter confidence; 121 Jürgen Klute (PE) Recital N N. whereas great strides have been made in promoting and safeguarding political economic and social rights in Latin America in recent decades; N. whereas great strides have been made in promoting and safeguarding civil, political economic, cultural and social rights in recent decades; PE v /74 AA\93999.doc 2 / 11

83 122 Sonia Escudero (Parlatino) Recital N 6 N. whereas great strides have been made in promoting and safeguarding political economic and social rights in Latin America in recent decades; N. whereas great strides have been made in promoting and safeguarding civil, political economic, cultural and social rights in Latin America in recent decades; 123 Willy Meyer (PE) Recital O O. whereas in Latin America public distrust of political parties stems from their inability to reduce social inequalities, ensure public security and fulfil their election promises; deleted 124 Carlos José Iturgaiz Angulo Recital O AA\93999.doc 65/74 PE v02-00

84 6 whereas in Latin America public distrust of political parties stems from their inability to reduce social inequalities, ensure public security and fulfil their election promises; whereas in Latin America public distrust of political parties stems from their inability to reduce social inequalities, ensure the safety of citizens and fulfil their election promises, as well as their failure to alleviate the high levels of corruption; 125 Sonia Escudero (Parlatino) Recital O O. whereas in Latin America public distrust of political parties stems from their inability to reduce social inequalities, ensure public security and fulfil their election promises; O. whereas public distrust of political parties largely stems from their inability to reduce social inequalities, ensure public security and fulfil their election promises or to identify more closely with social movements; 126 Jürgen Klute (PE) Recital O PE v /74 AA\93999.doc 4 / 11

85 O. whereas in Latin America public distrust of political parties stems from their inability to reduce social inequalities, ensure public security and fulfil their election promises; O. whereas public distrust of political parties largely stems from their inability to reduce social inequalities, ensure public security and fulfil their election promises; Carlos José Iturgaiz Angulo (PE) Recital P P. whereas the participation of organised civil society (OCS) has become a basic principle of governance; P. whereas the participation of organised civil society (OCS) has become a major tenet of governance; 12 Ricardo Cortés Lastra (PE) Recital Q Q. whereas the roles of OCS and political parties remain distinct yet complementary: civil society is a vehicle for citizen participation Q. whereas the roles of OCS and political parties remain distinct yet complementary: civil society is a vehicle for citizen mobilisation and AA\93999.doc 67/74 PE v02-00

86 6 whilst political parties have a representative role; participation whilst political parties have an institutional representative role and function as a channel for demands; 129 Carlos José Iturgaiz Angulo (PE) Recital R R. whereas new forms of communication such as the Internet and social networks are powerful tools for the dissemination and public discussion of political and social issues and can be a powerful tool for the dissemination of new issues on the political agenda; R. whereas new forms of communication such as the Internet and social networks are powerful tools for the dissemination and public discussion of political and social issues and can be a potent springboard for the dissemination and launching of new initiatives on the political agenda; 130 Ricardo Cortés Lastra (PE) Recital R R. whereas new forms of communication such as the Internet and social networks are powerful tools for the dissemination and R. whereas new forms of communication such as the Internet and social networks are powerful tools for the dissemination and PE v /74 AA\93999.doc 6 / 11

87 public discussion of political and social issues and can be a powerful tool for the dissemination of new issues on the political agenda; public discussion of political and social issues and can be a powerful tool for the debate and dialogue with the public concerning new issues on the political agenda; Willy Meyer (PE) Recital R R. whereas new forms of communication such as the Internet and social networks are powerful tools for the dissemination and public discussion of political and social issues and can be a powerful tool for the dissemination of new issues on the political agenda; R. whereas new forms of communication such as the Internet and social networks are powerful tools for the dissemination and public discussion of political and social issues and can be a powerful tool for dissemination and citizen participation regarding the political agenda; 132 Luis Yáñez-Barnuevo García (PE) Recital R R. whereas new forms of communication such as the Internet and social networks are powerful R. whereas new forms of communication such as the Internet and social networks are powerful AA\93999.doc 69/74 PE v02-00

88 6 tools for the dissemination and public discussion of political and social issues and can be a powerful tool for the dissemination of new issues on the political agenda; tools for the dissemination and public discussion of political and social issues and can be a powerful tool for the dissemination of new issues on the political agenda; whereas these platforms have become the medium of choice which many new social and political movements are using to spread their messages, speak out in protest, and call to action, creating what we know today as Democracy 2.0; 133 Jürgen Klute (PE) Recital R a (new) Ra. whereas social movements are of great importance as a means of making known demands; 134 Sonia Escudero (Parlatino) Recital R b (new) PE v /74 AA\93999.doc / 11

89 Rb. whereas social movements are of great importance as a means of making known demands; Sonia Escudero (Parlatino) Citation 1 having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU), and in particular Articles 1-25 (Part two) thereof on non-discrimination and citizenship of the Union, deleted 136 Sonia Escudero (Parlatino) Citation 2 having regard to the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, and in particular Chapter V (Articles 39-46) thereof on citizens rights, deleted AA\93999.doc 71/74 PE v02-00

90 6 137 Sonia Escudero (Parlatino) Citation 3 having regard to Regulation (EU) No 211/2011 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 February 2011 on the citizens initiative, deleted 13 Jürgen Klute (PE) Citation 4 having regard to the declarations made at the six summits of Heads of State or Government of Latin America, the Caribbean and the European Union, held respectively in Rio de Janeiro (2-29 June 1999), Madrid (17-1 May 2002), Guadalajara (2-29 May 2004), Vienna (11-13 May 2006), Lima (15-17 May 200) and Madrid (17-1 May 2010), having regard to the declarations made at the seven summits of Heads of State or Government of Latin America, the Caribbean and the European Union, held respectively in Rio de Janeiro (2-29 June 1999), Madrid (17-1 May 2002), Guadalajara (2-29 May 2004), Vienna (11-13 May 2006), Lima (15-17 May 200), Madrid (17-1 May 2010), and Santiago de Chile (26 and 27 January 2013); PE v /74 AA\93999.doc 90 / 11

91 6 139 Sonia Escudero (Parlatino) Citation 4 having regard to the declarations made at the six summits of Heads of State or Government of Latin America, the Caribbean and the European Union, held respectively in Rio de Janeiro (2-29 June 1999), Madrid (17-1 May 2002), Guadalajara (2-29 May 2004), Vienna (11-13 May 2006), Lima (15-17 May 200) and Madrid (17-1 May 2010), having regard to the declarations made at the seven summits of Heads of State or Government of Latin America, the Caribbean and the European Union, held respectively in Rio de Janeiro (2-29 June 1999), Madrid (17-1 May 2002), Guadalajara (2-29 May 2004), Vienna (11-13 May 2006), Lima (15-17 May 200), Madrid (17-1 May 2010) and Santiago de Chile (26 and 27 January 2013); 140 Sonia Escudero (Parlatino) Citation 6 having regard to the Commission s 2001 White Paper on Governance, deleted AA\93999.doc 73/74 PE v02-00

92 6 141 Jürgen Klute (PE) Citation 6 a (new) - having regard to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, 142 Sonia Escudero (Parlatino) Citation 6 b (new) - having regard to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, PE v /74 AA\93999.doc 92 / 11

93 7 COU CIL OF THE EUROPEA U IO Brussels, 4 June /13 PRESSE 237 Joint press release of the Council of the EU and the European Commission Fight against illicit drugs: EU signs new agreement with Russia Today the EU and Russia completed signature of a new cooperation agreement on the control of drug precursors, at the EU-Russia Summit in Yekaterinburg. The agreement was signed earlier on behalf of the EU by the Irish Presidency of the Council in Brussels and at the Summit by the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy/Vice-President of the Commission Catherine Ashton, while Director of the Federal Narcotics Service Viktor Ivanov signed for the Russian Federation. The agreement will strengthen co-operation between the EU and Russia in preventing drug precursors from being trafficked for the manufacture of illegal drugs. It will enable competent authorities to exchange more practical, technical and scientific information on these chemicals, and to ensure that they are only used for legitimate purposes. The EU already has 11 such agreements with other third countries. Algirdas Šemeta, Commissioner responsible for Customs, said: "Customs has the dual responsibility of keeping our society safe, while facilitating trade for legitimate businesses. Controlling drug precursors is a prime example of how this is applied. For international threats, like narcotics trafficking, international cooperation is the best defence. Therefore, I warmly welcome today's EU-Russia agreement to work hand-in-hand in preventing drug precursors from being used to make illegal drugs." P R E S S R u e d e l a L o i B B R U S S E L S T e l. : ( 0 ) F a x : ( 0 ) press.office@consilium.europa.eu /13 1 E