Combatting terrorism, Circular Economy and better accessibility for people with disabilities

Met dank overgenomen van Europese Commissie (EC) i, gepubliceerd op woensdag 2 december 2015.

The Commission takes action in the fight against terrorism. It also adopts a Circular Economy Package to ensure the transition to an economy where resources are used in a more sustainable way. It proposes a European Accessibility Act for people with disabilities.

Under the European Agenda on Security, the European Commission is stepping up the fight against terrorism and the illegal trafficking of firearms and explosives. The package includes two main elements:

  • 1. 
    A proposal for a Directive on Terrorism, which will strengthen the EU's arsenal in preventing terrorist attacks by criminalising preparatory acts such as training and travel abroad for terrorist purposes as well as aiding or abetting, inciting and attempting terrorist acts.
  • 2. 
    An Action Plan to step up the fight against criminals and terrorists accessing and using weapons and explosives through a reinforced control of illicit possession and import to the EU.

Moving to a stronger and more circular economy where resources are used in a more sustainable way is the aim of the ambitious Circular Economy Package, adopted in a real team effort across many different portfolios. The proposed actions will contribute to improving the product lifecycles through greater recycling and re-use. The proposals will help to decouple economic growth from resource consumption. This will bring benefits for both the environment and the economy by boosting European competitiveness, creating jobs and generating sustainable growth.

80 million people with disabilities in the EU are set to benefit from the Commission's proposal for a European Accessibility Act. The proposed directive sets common requirements for making certain key products and services accessible at more competitive prices to people with disabilities at EU level. In particular, these include cash machines and banking services, personal computers, telephones and TV equipment, telephones, television and audiovisual services, transport, e-books and e-commerce. These common EU rules will stimulate innovation and increase the offer of accessible products and services as well as their trade across borders. They will lower the barriers for the full participation of people with disabilities in society and bring benefits to them and companies alike.

Meer over ...