🛂 A major step was taken towards restoring control over migration policy as negotiators concluded talks on the new Return Regulation. The agreement is expected to strengthen deportation procedures, increase pressure on uncooperative third countries and help restore credibility to Europe’s migration system.
⚖️ At the same time, we criticised a ruling by the European Court of Justice that further expands social benefits for rejected asylum seekers. We believe Member States must retain the ability to decide how their welfare systems operate and how migration rules are enforced.
🚗 This week also exposed the growing gap between Brussels’ political ambitions and everyday reality. Reports revealed that even EU Commissioners are struggling with charging times and range limitations in their electric vehicle fleet. If the transition creates difficulties under the most privileged conditions, ordinary citizens, commuters and small businesses will face even greater challenges.
💶 We also challenged wasteful spending in Brussels. New figures on the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund raise serious questions about efficiency and value for taxpayers’ money, with nearly half of all beneficiaries failing to return to employment.
✈️ In the field of transport, we opposed attempts to weaken air passenger rights while simultaneously increasing costs for travellers through Green Deal policies and additional regulation.
🎣 On fisheries, we welcomed signs that even parts of the EPP are beginning to recognise the damaging effects of the Commission’s approach. Europe’s fishermen need support, not further cuts, bureaucracy and ideological conditions attached to funding.
🗳️ We also condemned Armenia’s decision to deny MEP Hans Neuhoff accreditation as an election observer without providing any justification. Free and transparent elections require independent observation, not politically selective access.
Across all these debates, ESN continues to advocate for stronger borders, greater national sovereignty, accountable institutions and policies that put European citizens first.
