CAST Flashcards

Question

Who can propose amendments to treaties?

Answer 1

Member States, EC or EP

Answer 2

Anti-imperialism

Answer 3

Correct answer was about the founding members which were 12 in total. Among the wrong answers was that all EU MS but two were now part of NATO (they are instead 22)

Answer 4

Peace in Central America

Answer 5

They establish nuclear-free zones

Answer 6

Well below 2 degrees, aiming for 1.5 degrees reduction compared to pre-industrial emission levels

Answer 7

55% GHG reduction compared to 1990 by 2030, net zero by 2050

Answer 8

447 Million

Answer 9

MS need to keep deficit at 3%, debt at 60% of GDP

Answer 10

Chad, Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger and Mauritania

Answer 11

Elected by the General Assembly, for a 2-year non-renewable term, presidency rotates in alphabetic order

Answer 12

Exclusive competency of national states to implement EU law

Answer 13

to provide at least 90% of children between 3 years old and mandatory school age with care

Answer 14

COMISSION on investigations, input from others

Answer 15

Venice Declaration 1980

Answer 16

only for Nice was correct 2001.. others had both wrong signature year and details

Answer 17

Copenhagen criteria

Answer 18

unanimity in European council

Answer 19

only mercury

Answer 20

Simone Veil.

Answer 21

1 M; Quarter EU countries

Answer 22

The Stability and Growth Pact (SGP) is a set of rules designed to ensure that countries in the European Union pursue sound public finances and coordinate their fiscal policies.

Answer 23

The annual EU budget is agreed by the Council and the European Parliament. The draft budget is proposed by the European Commission. First, the Council adopts its position on the draft annual EU budget. The European Parliament can then adopt amendments to the Council's position. If their views diverge, a conciliation committee is convened to find a compromise within three weeks. After an agreement is reached, the Council and the European Parliament have 14 days to formally approve it. If the Council and the European Parliament do not reach an agreement, the Commission has to present a new draft annual budget. If the annual budget is still not adopted at the beginning of the year to which it refers, the system of provisional twelfths applies. This means that not more than one twelfth of the budget appropriations for the previous year or of the draft budget proposed by the Commission – whichever is smaller – may be spent each month for any chapter of the budget.

Answer 24

European Strategy and Policy Analysis System

Answer 25

Southern Asian Association for Regional Cooperation

Answer 26

The GSP Regulation is a unilateral trade tool that removes or reduces import duties from products coming into the EU from vulnerable low-income countries, supporting poverty eradication, sustainable development, and their participation in the global economy.

Answer 27

The Annual Growth Survey is the Commission's main tool for setting out the general economic and social priorities for the EU for the following year.

Answer 28

Solemnly proclaimed on 7 December 2000 by the European Parliament, the Council of Ministers and the European Commission. However, its then legal status was uncertain and it did not have full legal effect until the entry into force of the Treaty of Lisbon on 1 December 2009.

Answer 29

A forum of industrialised countries

Answer 30

At least one from each of the Member States

Answer 31

22 million farmers in the EU, in 10,5 million agribusiness that have (on average) an income 40% lower that non-agriculture sector jobs

Answer 32

Hazardous chemicals

Answer 33

European Commission, European Parliament, Council

Answer 34

European Network and Information Security Agency

Answer 35

To boost SME’s competitiveness

Answer 36

“A European Union instrument for institutional cooperation between Public Administrations of EU Member States and of beneficiary or partner countries”

Answer 37

The Council takes its decisions by simple majority, qualified majority or unanimity; I was not sure about another option that read: “The Council can vote on a legislative act 12 weeks after the draft has been sent to national parliaments”, but in fact it’s 8 weeks. The other two options were easy to rule out.

Answer 38

(a) customs union; (b) the establishing of the competition rules necessary for the functioning of the internal market; (c) monetary policy for the Member States whose currency is the euro; (d) the conservation of marine biological resources under the common fisheries policy; (e) common commercial policy.

Answer 39

trade in goods and services, commercial aspects of intellectual property, foreign direct investments

Answer 40

1942 by Franklin D. Roosevelt; careful, it was NOT coined at the San Francisco Conference.

Answer 41

European Strategy and Policy Analysis System

Answer 42

It was signed in 1982 in Montego Bay (Jamaica).

Answer 43

It aimed to prevent European powers from extending their influence in the Western hemisphere.

Answer 44

Should be adopted unanimously by the Council after receiving the Parliament's consent as expressed by absolute majority

Answer 45

Indonesia (MS are Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa)

Answer 46

SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation)

Answer 47

It covers 79 countries with 48 being in Sub-Saharan Africa Note that centralized governance is NOT one of its key priorities!

Answer 48

Agriculture is directly dealt with by the EU unlike transport and education

Answer 49

environment (exclusive competences are: customs union, competition rules for the single market, monetary policy for the eurozone countries, trade and international agreements (under certain circumstances), marine plants and animals regulated by the common fisheries policy)

Answer 50

Should be approved by 2/3 majority of the MEP

Answer 51

Directive – binding only in terms of the result to be achieved

Answer 52

Every person holding the nationality of a Member State shall be a citizen of the Union. Citizenship of the Union shall be additional to and not replace national citizenship.

Answer 53

Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay

Answer 54

President, Vice-President and 4 members

Answer 55

unanimity in EUCO (European council)

Answer 56

Written opinion

Answer 57

If your flight arrives in the EU from outside the EU and is operated by a non-EU airline.

Answer 58

DG Environment

Answer 59

A legally-binding non-legislative act

Answer 60

All of the above (European Defence Fund, European Development Fund, European Disability Forum)

Answer 61

Jozsef Szajer

Answer 62

They must have a large economic or social status within more than one MS

Answer 63

European securities markets

Answer 64

La Valletta, Malta

Answer 65

Luxembourgish

Answer 66

2,5 years (with the possibility of renewal once).

Answer 67

Is organized by the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC)

Answer 68

To bring a claim against EU law, individuals should go before their national court.

Answer 69

1 January 2011

Answer 70

The turnout in European elections has consistently fallen since 1979.

Answer 71

A configuration cannot adopt an act that falls under another configuration.

Answer 72

Schumann declaration 1950 Coal and Steel community between BENELUX, France Germany Italy; Treaty of Rome of 1957 European Economic Community; Treaty on European Union, commonly known as the Maastricht Treaty, is the foundation treaty of the European Union (EU). Concluded in 1992 between the then-twelve member states, into effect 1 November 1993 (6 founders plus Ireland, UK, Denmark, Greece, Spain, Portugal)

Answer 73

Commissioner for Human Rights.

Answer 74

A second period of secondment is not possible

Answer 75

Provide that the functioning of a legislative act will be examined at a set date

Answer 76

24 working days

Answer 77

Protection of private life.

Answer 78

Agriculture

Answer 79

Appointing Authority

Answer 80

It is also called codification Recasting refers to a legislative technique where a legislative proposal/act is a mix of substantial amendment and codification. This technique uses the opportunity provided by a substantial amendment to the basic legislative act to codify the original act and all its subsequent amendments. Unlike codification, recasting changes the substance of the law. Recasting is one form of simplification and a recasting proposal follows a normal legislative procedure according to its legal base.

Answer 81

1 billion EUR

Answer 82

The Board is acting under the Council’s direct authority.

Answer 83

7; German is an official language in Germany, Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg. In Poland, Italy, and Denmark German is recognized on a sub-national level.

Answer 84

15; The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is a regional group of 15 countries, founded in 1975. Its mission is to promote economic integration all fields of economic activity, particularly industry, transport, telecommunications, energy, agriculture, natural resources, commerce, monetary and financial matters, social and cultural issues

Answer 85

Wim Kok former prime minister of the Netherlands, delivered in November 2003 as chairman of the employment task force of the Commission, the report “Jobs, jobs, jobs”. It recognized the inherent social value in policies that create jobs.

Answer 86

It accounts for a little less than 1% of the wealth produced each year by EU MS

Answer 87

5; The College of Quaestors is the European Parliament body responsible for administrative and financial matters directly concerning Members and their working conditions.

Answer 88

31 March 2015

Answer 89

Issue a call for tender applications based on detailed specifications

Answer 90

Members may belong to more than one political group.

Answer 91

Green papers; A formal Impact Assessment is required for items on the Commission's Work Programme (WP). All regulatory proposals, White Papers, expenditure programmes and negotiating guidelines for international agreements (with an economic, social or environmental impact) put on the WP are concerned. In addition, the Commission may, on a case-by-case basis, decide to carry out an impact assessment of a proposal which does not appear on the WP. Green Papers and proposals for consultation with Social Partners are exempted.

Answer 92

Committee of Professional Agricultural Organizations (COPA).

Answer 93

80% (Qualified majority is the most widely used voting method in the Council. It is used when the Council takes decisions during the OLP. About 80% of all EU legislation is adopted with this procedure.)

Answer 94

EURES is a cooperation network within the EU comprised of national public employment services.

Answer 95

Migues Angel Martinez Martinez

Answer 96

30 percent

Answer 97

4 (Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, and the Vatican all adopted the Euro as an official currency and have special issuing rights granted by treaties with the EU.)

Answer 98

It is also called codification.

Answer 99

The new rules entered into force in 2008. (The new rules concerning the status of the Members of the European Parliament was agreed by the Member States in 2009.)

Answer 100

1984, 1998

Answer 101

Once every 3 months

Answer 102

Once a week

Answer 103

Letter of formal notice by the Commission

Answer 104

CARE (Community Road Accident Database)

Answer 105

Establishing the European Committee of the Regions.

Answer 106

Conference on the Future of Europe

Answer 107

Direct taxes

Answer 108

Denmark, France and the Netherlands

Answer 109

Edinburgh 1992

Answer 110

It both focuses on sectoral issues and puts big issues on the EU policy agenda

Answer 111

Director General for Personnel and Administration

Answer 112

It is also called codification; Recasting refers to a legislative technique where a legislative proposal/act is a mix of substantial amendment and codification. This technique uses the opportunity provided by a substantial amendment to the basic legislative act to codify the original act and all its subsequent amendments. Unlike codification, recasting changes the substance of the law. Recasting is one form of simplification and a recasting proposal follows a normal legislative procedure according to its legal base. 

Answer 113

Israel and palestine decided not to join the partnership because they could not agree on the terms of the agreement

Answer 114

Appointing Authority

Answer 115

POSEI Programme of Options Specifically Relating to Remoteness and Insularity Programmes.

Answer 116

Norway, Iceland ad Liechtenstein are members of the Joint Undertaking.

Answer 117

Europe Agreements

Answer 118

A referendum usually asks a question or questions to which all eligible electors must vote either 'yes' or 'no'. For electors, referendums are very similar to elections. On polling day, electors go to a polling place and cast their vote on a ballot paper.

Answer 119

Subsidiarity control mechanism – orange card. You need to know how it works and the numbers 1/3 or ¼

Answer 120

Need to know Members and number. Right answer is 8 with US, Canada, Russia, Denmark, Finland, Norway, Sweden and Iceland. Not 10, nor China is a member

Answer 121

EU MS to pursue sound public finances and coordinate fiscal policies. Other answers were tricky because they referred to the SAA, Stabilization and Accession Agreement, mentioning candidate countries and enlargement

Answer 122

⋍ 41€ to income support, 14€ to rural development and 2.37€ to market measures. The fours answers had different combinations of the above but only one had income support as the largest area.

Answer 123

The Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO) in the area of security and defence policy was established by a Council decision on 11 December 2017, with 25 EU Member States. It offers a legal framework to jointly plan, develop and invest in shared capability projects, and enhance the operational readiness and contribution of armed forces.

Answer 124

17 million

Answer 125

CATCH system of certificates – correct one

Answer 126

The Treaty of Nice amending the EU Treaty, the Treaties establishing the European Communities and certain related acts was signed in the presence of the European Parliament President, Nicole Fontaine. The aim of the Treaty of Nice was to reform the institutional structure of the European Union to with stand the challenges of the new enlargement. With the Treaty of Nice, Parliament's legislative and supervisory powers are increased and qualified-majority voting is extended to more areas within the Council. Signed in: Nice (France) 26 February 2001 Entry into force: 1 February 2003 Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union The Charter of fundamental rights was signed by the Presidents of the European Parliament, the Commission and the Council at the Nice European Council. Signed in: Nice (France) 7 December 2000 and slightly modified on 12 December 2007 in Strasbourg (France) Entry into force: As part of the Treaty of Lisbon (and previously, part of the unsuccessful Draft Treaty establishing a Constitution for Europe), the Charter will become legally binding once the Treaty of Lisbon enters into force

Answer 127

The Minamata Convention on Mercury is the most recent global agreement on environment and health, adopted in 2013. It is named after the bay in Japan where, in the mid-20th century, mercury-tainted industrial wastewater poisoned thousands of people, leading to severe health damage that became known as the "Minamata disease." entered into force on 16 August 2017

Answer 128

A motion of censure in respect of the Commission may be submitted to the President by one tenth of the component Members of Parliament. In accordance with Article 234 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, the motion of censure shall be adopted if it secures a two-thirds majority of the votes cast, representing a majority of the component Members of Parliament. The President of the Council and the President of the Commission shall be notified of the result of the vote.

Answer 129

International Court of Justice

Answer 130

The Economic and Monetary Union (EMU) represents a major step in the integration of EU economies. Launched in 1992, EMU involves the coordination of economic and fiscal policies, a common monetary policy, and a common currency, the euro

Answer 131

The Werner Plan (or Werner Report) was drawn up by a working group chaired by Pierre Werner, Luxembourg's Prime Minister and Minister for Finances, and presented in October 1970. It was conducted after the European Summit in The Hague in 1969, where the Heads of State and Government of the European Community agreed to prepare a plan for economic and monetary union. The three stage plan proposed gradual, institutional reform leading to the irrevocable fixing of exchange rates and the adoption of a single currency within a decade, but it did not recommend the establishment of a central bank. The plan was never implemented because of pressure of the United States (France retired its support after a France-US meeting in the Azores at the end of 1971).

Answer 132

1988 to Nelson Mandela and Anatoli Marchenko

Answer 133

New binding renewable energy target for the EU for 2030 of at least 32%, with a clause for a possible upwards revision by 2023. This target is a continuation of the 20% target for 2020.

Answer 134

in addition to direct and indirect management – explicitly extended to Member States’ authorities and any person implementing EU funds under shared management.

Answer 135

Parliament’s consent is required for the adoption of international fisheries agreements. In addition, it must be immediately and fully informed of any decision concerning the provisional application or the suspension of agreements.

Answer 136

llegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing is widely recognised as a significant environmental, economic and social problem. It represents a major threat to marine ecosystems, a disruption for the seafood market, and an unfair disadvantage for responsible fishermen. Combatting IUU fishing has become a key means for achieving sustainable management of global fisheries. While the root cause of IUU fishing is states' failure to discipline vessels operating under their flag, tackling this phenomenon requires a many-sided approach and involves a whole range of international instruments. These instruments define a system of mutually reinforcing measures, tailored for each of the different responsibilities that countries have over their fishing vessels (as flag states), their waters (as coastal states), access to their ports (as port states), and access to their market (as market states).

Answer 137

Deepen defence cooperation between EU Member States Only 25 MS

Answer 138

The main objective of ITER is to demonstrate the scientific and technological feasibility of fusion energy for peaceful purposes

Answer 139

chief co-ordinator and representative of the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP)

Answer 140

Ease access to finance for SMEs by providing loan guarantees and risk capital (access to finance) Help companies access new markets, within and outside the EU (access to markets) Create a business-friendly environment by reducing the administrative burden on SMEs (improving conditions for businesses) Encourage an entrepreneurial culture (encouraging entrepreneurship)

Answer 141

Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons

Answer 142

The 12 founding members of the Alliance were: Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, the United Kingdom and the United States.

Answer 143

The Commission holds the 'right of initiative', i.e. the prerogative to propose legislation at Union level (Article 17 TEU). It should be noted, however, that in specific cases provided for in the Treaties a proposal for a legislative act may also be submitted to the ordinary legislative procedure on the initiative of a group of Member States, on a recommendation by the European Central Bank, or at the request of the Court of Justice (Article 294(15) TFEU). For example: a quarter of the Member States can initiate a legislative procedure in the field of police and judicial cooperation in criminal matters (Article 76 TFEU)

Answer 144

510 (correct answer, UK left officially 31 January 2020)

Answer 145

all MS need to establish an organization (or similar) that checks for discriminations, conducts surveys and independent reports Note: it’s six main titles are dignity, freedom, equality, solidarity, justice, citizens rights. NOT education

Answer 146

Treaty of Maastricht

Answer 147

Unanimous decision by the Council + majority of votes by the EP

Answer 148

At least 32% renewable energy consumption until 2030

Answer 149

To stand as a candidate for national elections in another MS.

Answer 150

Adopted 1967, no property claims.

Answer 151

The Commission of the European Union (EU) takes part in the work of the OECD, in accordance with the Supplementary Protocol to the Convention on the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. This participation goes well beyond that of a mere observer. 23 EU

Answer 152

Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Spain 19

Answer 153

The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) is a multilateral development bank that aims to improve economic and social outcomes in Asia. The bank currently has 105 members, including 14 prospective members from around the world. HQ: Bejing

Answer 154

The subsidiarity control mechanism applies in areas where the EU does not have exclusive competence In cases where national Parliaments consider that draft legislative acts do not comply with subsidiarity, they can send a reasoned opinion to the Commission within eight weeks.

Answer 155

Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes & their Disposal

Answer 156

Any national government, EP or EC

Answer 157

The Durand Line is the 2,640-kilometer (1,640-mile) border between Afghanistan and Pakistan

Answer 158

510 (correct answer since UK left officially 31 January 2020)

Answer 159

A points = No discussion / B-points = discussion Council negotiates, adopts, adapts EU legislation and coordinates policies. In most cases, Council decides together with EP through OLP/codecision (= policy areas with exclusive/shared competence (~85)). Most EU legal acts in this procedure are adopted at 1st reading (max. 3 readings. At each reading the proposal passes through 3 levels at the Council: Working party: “preparatory bodies” COREPER Council configuration If COREPER can finalise discussions on a proposal, the proposal becomes an 'A' item on the Council agenda, meaning that the agreement is accepted without debate (2/3 of the items on the agenda). On the other hand, 'B' section of the Council agenda includes points: Left over from previous Council meetings No agreement reached in Coreper/ at working party level Too politically sensitive to be settled at a lower level

Answer 160

All MS need to establish an organization (or similar) that checks for discriminations, conducts surveys and independent reports.

Answer 161

93% climate change is a serious problem; 94% environmental protection is important; 83% EU legislation is necessary to protect the environment.

Answer 162

Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay. Venezuela, which officially joined 2012, was suspended from membership in 2017. Associate countries (not members per se): Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Peru and Suriname. New Zealand and Mexico are observers.

Answer 163

Quantitative easing (QE) is an advanced monetary policy of central banks to stimulate growth in a stagnant economy by large scale buying of government bonds and other assets.

Answer 164

The Early Warning System (EWS) is an internal information tool that helps the European Commission and its executive agencies to identify third parties that pose financial and/or other risks. Part of this tool, a Central Exclusion Database is accessible by all public authorities that implement EU funds. The database includes all entities — companies, organisations or natural persons — which have been excluded from EU funding because they are insolvent, have been convicted of serious professional misconduct or criminal offence against the EU’s financial interests. Such a blacklist allows authorities to identify risky entities and take the appropriate precautionary measures, such as not entering into a contract with a particular service provider. This helps to ensure the sound financial management of European Union funds and to prevent fraud.

Answer 165

Rebates. The EU budget obeys the nine general rules of unity, budgetary accuracy, annuality, equilibrium, unit of account (the euro), universality, specification (each appropriation is allocated to a particular kind of expenditure), sound financial management and transparency, pursuant to Articles 6 to 38 of the Regulation on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the EU.

Answer 166

“A multilateral agreement on international cooperation on monetary policy” The Bretton Woods system of monetary management established the rules for commercial and financial relations among the United States, Canada, Western European countries, Australia, and Japan after the 1944 Bretton Woods Agreement. The Bretton Woods system was the first example of a fully negotiated monetary order intended to govern monetary relations among independent states. The Bretton Woods system required countries to guarantee convertibility of their currencies into U.S. dollars to within 1% of fixed parity rates, with the dollar convertible to gold bullion for foreign governments and central banks at US$35 per troy ounce of fine gold (or 0.88867 gram fine gold per dollar). It also envisioned greater cooperation among countries in order to prevent future competitive devaluations, and thus established the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to monitor exchange rates and lend reserve currencies to nations with balance of payments deficits.

Answer 167

The Monroe Doctrine was a United States foreign policy position that opposed European colonialism in the Western Hemisphere. It held that any intervention in the political affairs of the Americas by foreign powers was a potentially hostile act against the U.S. The doctrine was central to U.S. foreign policy for much of the 19th and early 20th centuries. It aimed to prevent European powers from extending their influence in the Western hemisphere.

Answer 168

It is submitted to the Commission who should review it within 3 months.

Answer 169

SAARC South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation SADC South African Development Community

Answer 170

The Cotonou Agreement is a close partnership based on a series of principles: The partners to the agreement are equal. The ACP countries determine their own development policies. Cooperation is not only among governments: parliaments, local authorities, civil society, the private sector, economic and social partners play a role as well. The Cotonou Agreement is the most comprehensive Partnership Agreement between developing countries and the EU.

Answer 171

A forum of industrialised countries. The G20 or Group of Twenty is an intergovernmental forum comprising 19 countries and the European Union (EU). It works to address major issues related to the global economy, such as international financial stability,climate change mitigation, an sustainable development. The G20 is composed of most of the world's largest economies, including both industrialized and developing nations, and accounts for around 90% of gross world product (GWP), 75–80% of international trade, two-thirds of the global population, and roughly half the world's land area.

Answer 172

The Rotterdam Convention is a multilateral treaty to promote shared responsibilities in relation to importation of hazardous chemical. (signature 1998, into force 2004)

Answer 173

Treaty of Lisbon

Answer 174

European Network and Information Security Agency

Answer 175

COSME- Europe’s programme for small and medium-sized enterprises. Aims to boost SME’s competitiveness.

Answer 176

Elected by the General Assembly, for a 2-year non-renewable term, presidency rotates in alphabetic order; also tricky, in the other options one of these elements was in turn modified (e.g. “elected by UNSC permanent members following proposal by the GA”, or “for a 2-year term with possibility of immediate re-election”).

Answer 177

The Council takes its decisions by simple majority, qualified majority or unanimity; I was not sure about another option that read: “The Council can vote on a legislative act 12 weeks after the draft has been sent to national parliaments”, but in fact it’s 8 weeks. The other two options were easy to rule out.

Answer 178

- (a) customs union (b) the establishing of the competition rules necessary for the functioning of the internal market (c) monetary policy for the Member States whose currency is the euro (d) the conservation of marine biological resources under the common fisheries policy (e) common commercial policy. + trade policy

Answer 179

In 1942, by Franklin D. Roosevelt. Careful, it was NOT coined at the San Francisco Conference.

Answer 180

Under pressure from the European Parliament, the Copenhagen Summit of April 1978 set the date of the first European direct elections for 7-10 June 1979.

Answer 181

The agreements set up Nuclear-weapon-free zone in respectively Latin America (1967), South Pacific (1985), South Asia (1995) and Africa (1996)

Answer 182

In case of a breach of subsidiarity, the Committee of the Regions or the MS may refer an act directly to CJEU. Three preconditions for intervention by EU institutions in accordance with subsidiarity principle: area concerned no exclusive EU competence (non-exclusivity) objectives cannot be sufficiently achieved by MS (necessity) action can be implemented more successfully by the Union (added value).

Answer 183

Proposition by the EC. Reading by EP to approve or amend. Reading by Council to approve EP position or amend the EC proposition.

Answer 184

Unanimity for European Council as it votes with Qualified Majority. The European Council proposes a candidate (taking into consideration the results of the EP election). Once proposed, the parliament votes on the candidate by a majority of its members. (Article 17(7) TEU)

Answer 185

Article 312 TFEU: Proposal for regulation laying down MFF submitted by EC & Council. EP must approve via absolute majority (majority of MEPs) – consent from the EP Council adopts it unanimously

Answer 186

A European Union instrument for institutional cooperation between Public Administrations of EU Member States and of beneficiary or partner countries.

Answer 187

The right answer should be the one related to definition/regulation of labor rights.

Answer 188

EU Court of Auditors

Answer 189

Islands located in the South Chinese Sea

Answer 190

The alert mechanism report (AMR) is the starting point of the annual cycle of the macroeconomic imbalance procedure (MIP). On this basis, the AMR identifies countries that need an in-depth review (IDR) by the Commission to assess how macroeconomic risks are evolving, and to determine the presence of imbalances or excessive imbalances. The AMR is presented during the European Semester

Answer 191

The Luxembourg Compromise (or "Luxembourg Accord") was an agreement reached in January 1966 to resolve the "Empty Chair Crisis". The Luxembourg Compromise is viewed as a turning of the tide in the history of European integration. It safeguarded the intergovernmental nature of the EC, therefore preserving state sovereignty. It also prevented the EC from further consolidating power and therefore becoming more supranational, or taking power out of the hands of the states.

Answer 192

political criteria: stability of institutions guaranteeing democracy, the rule of law, human rights and respect for and protection of minorities; economic criteria: a functioning market economy and the capacity to cope with competition and market forces; administrative and institutional capacity to effectively implement and ability to take on the obligations of membership. For EU accession negotiations to be launched, a country must satisfy the first criterion.

Answer 193

The leading Intergovernmental organization promoting cooperation, coordination etc. among 8 Arctic countries: (USA, Russia, Canada, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden.

Answer 194

12 countries: Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, the United Kingdom, and the United States

Answer 195

The Esquipulas Nicaraguan Peace Agreement, also known as the Central American Peace Accords, was a peace initiative in the mid-1980s to settle the military conflicts that had plagued Central America for many years. The agreement was named for Esquipulas, Guatemala, where the initial meetings took place. Signature on 15 February 1987.

Answer 196

The EP cannot dismiss the Ombudsman. The EP can only suggest it.

Answer 197

The International Criminal Court

Answer 198

10 October 2013 – The Minamata Convention on Mercury is an international treaty designed to protect human health and the environment from anthropogenic emissions and releases of mercury and mercury compounds

Answer 199

The Marshall Plan (officially the European Recovery Program, ERP) was an American initiative enacted in 1948 to provide foreign aid to Western Europe. The United States transferred over $13 billion (equivalent of about $115 billion in 2021) in economic recovery programs to Western European economies after the end of World War II.

Answer 200

A member of the Council can act on the behalf of one other absent member as long as the majority of the Council’s members are present. The Council can vote on a legislative act 8 weeks after the draft act has been sent to national parliaments for their examination.

Answer 201

EC shall forward its draft legislative acts and amended drafts to national Parliaments at the same time as to the Union legislators. National parliaments enforce subsidiarity in face of EC legislative proposal. They have the opportunity to send a reasoned opinion in 8 weeks. Yellow card procedure: If 1/3 of national parliaments (1/4 for freedom, security and justice) submit a reasoned opinion stating it violates subsidiarity, EC must decide whether to maintain, change or withdraw it and give reason. Used 3 times so far. Orange card procedure: If reasoned opinion represents majority of votes, EC must review and decide whether to maintain, change or withdraw the proposal. The EC will have to demonstrate in front of EP and Council why it complies with the principle of subsidiarity. Never used so far.

Answer 202

The Commission identifies possible infringements of EU law on the basis of its own investigations or following complaints from citizens, businesses or other stakeholders. That action may also be brought by another MS, although rare. If MS concerned fails to communicate measures that fully transpose the provisions of directives or does not rectify the suspected violation to the EU law, the EC may launch a formal infringement procedure. The infringement procedure should be approved by 2/3 majority of the MEP. The length of the infringement procedure is on average 35, maximum 48.

Answer 203

EC prepares and adopts delegated acts after consulting expert groups (representatives from each MS)

Answer 204

The Montreal Protocol is an international treaty designed to protect the ozone layer by phasing out the production of numerous substances that are responsible for ozone depletion.

Answer 205

Coordination of fiscal policies to ensure sound fiscal policies/public finances and correct excessive budgets or debt

Answer 206

It has 399 members representing local and regional entities of EU MS. It meets 5/6 times a year.

Answer 207

Citizenship of the Union is hereby established. Every person holding the nationality of a Member State shall be a citizen of the Union. Citizenship of the Union shall be additional to and not replace national citizenship. Citizens of the Union shall enjoy the rights and be subject to the duties provided for in the Treaties. They shall have, inter alia: (a) the right to move and reside freely within the territory of the Member States; (b) the right to vote and to stand as candidates in elections to the European Parliament and in municipal elections in their Member State of residence, under the same conditions as nationals of that State; (c) the right to enjoy, in the territory of a third country in which the Member State of which they are nationals is not represented, the protection of the diplomatic and consular authorities of any Member State on the same conditions as the nationals of that State; (d) the right to petition the European Parliament, to apply to the European Ombudsman, and to address the institutions and advisory bodies of the Union in any of the Treaty languages and to obtain a reply in the same language. These rights shall be exercised in accordance with the conditions and limits defined by the Treaties and by the measures adopted thereunder.

Answer 208

Provide independent scientific advice to the institutions and support to the EU policy.

Answer 209

In Beijing

Answer 210

Montenegro, Serbia, Turkey, the Republic of North Macedonia, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Kosovo

Answer 211

Chair of the GAC (the other options are head of EEAS, VP and chair of FAC)

Answer 212

The secretariat was established in 1992 when countries adopted the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. (the other options were the Paris Agreement, Kyoto Protocol and one of the Treaties)

Answer 213

12 countries: Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, the United Kingdom, and the United States

Answer 214

The European Parliament, the European Council, the Council, the European Commission, the Court of Justice of the European Union, the European Central Bank, the Court of Auditors

Answer 215

Twice a year (biannual)

Answer 216

(The Bosman case (Union Royale Belge v Bosman, Case C-415/93) resulted in a landmark ruling by the European Court of Justice (ECJ) applying the right of free movement to professional footballers – and by implication other sportsmen – by allowing them to transfer without undue hindrance to another club at the end of their existing contract) Free movement of workers

Answer 217

A new international monetary system was forged by delegates from forty-four nations in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire, in July 1944. Those at Bretton Woods envisioned an international monetary system that would ensure exchange rate stability, prevent competitive devaluations, and promote economic growth. Delegates to the conference agreed to establish the International Monetary Fund and International Bank for Reconstruction and Development – the latter now known as the World Bank Group. The system of currency convertibility that emerged from Bretton Woods lasted until 1971. The United States could no longer fulfill its obligation to redeem dollars for gold at the official price. In 1971, President Richard Nixon ended the dollar’s convertibility to gold

Answer 218

Military conflict in Central America

Answer 219

Health Equity

Answer 220

It is one of the pillars of the Investment Plan for Europe, known as the Juncker Plan. Managed by the European investment bank Budget is €33.5 billion

Answer 221

Albania is not a beneficiary Key objective of SIGMA: strengen public governance and socio-economic development as well as horizontal governance Created 1992, partly financed by the EU, aims also at strengthening the implementation of EU legislation

Answer 222

70% of basic salary

Answer 223

Brussels and Luxembourg

Answer 224

VAT legislation

Answer 225

Agricultural policy

Answer 226

It was both an attempt at monetary cooperation and a response to the currency turmoil in the late 1960s- early 1970s and the destabilization of European markets

Answer 227

Consultation procedure

Answer 228

2014-2020: 408 billion 2021-2027: The EU’s multiannual financial framework (MFF) for 2021-27, adopted on 17 December 2020, amounts to €1.21 trillion (in current prices) with an additional €808 billion from the next generation EU recovery instrument. The total allocation for the common agricultural policy (CAP) amounts to €386.6 billion

Answer 229

An unidentified political object

Answer 230

2015 under the Juncker Commission

Answer 231

Director General for Personnel and Administration

Answer 232

The first Community Regulation determining official languages was passed in 1958. It specified Dutch, French, German and Italian as the first official languages of the EU, these being the languages of the MSs at the time.

Answer 233

Commissioners may not engage in any other professional activity, whether paid or unpaid. Giving courses free of charge in the interests of the EU integration is explicitly permitted in the Code of Conduct for the Commissioners.

Answer 234

Strasbourg and Brussels-> MEPs must meet for a plenary session in Strasbourg every month. Every year there are a maximum of 6 plenaries which are hosted in Brussels.

Answer 235

Is optional for lobby organisations

Answer 236

16%, while the present term’s ratio is about 37%.

Answer 237

Didier Reynolds

Answer 238

Eight years non-renewable.

Answer 239

The European Police College (CEPOL), is an agency of the EU dedicated to developing, implementing and coordinating training for law enforcement officials.

Answer 240

Catherin Ashton-> she was appointed as the HR/VP on 1 December 2009.

Answer 241

Has no executive powers: the objective of Europol is to improve police cooperation between MSs in order to combat terrorism, unlawful drug trafficking and other serious forms of international organised crime. It is established in The Hague, NL. (Other incorrect answers: has a comparable remit to the FBI, its objective is to improve judicial cooperation, it is established in Warsaw)

Answer 242

Is organised by the European Economic and Social Committee, in close cooperation with the European Commission and the MS holding the Presidency of the Council of the EU.

Answer 243

EUR 408.31 billion-> 38% of the overall EU budget. For the new budget: 387 billion, 30.9%.

Answer 244

2016-> The solvency Directive became fully applicable to the European insurers and reinsurers on 1/1/2016. Solvency II is a harmonised, sound and robust prudential framework for insurance firms to the EU.

Answer 245

Common Agriculture and Fisheries Policies-> however, it does contain provisions on trade in agricultural and fish products.

Answer 246

NOT Turkey, which is part of the customs union. Norway, Lichtenstein, Iceland, Switzerland ARE.

Answer 247

Bilaterally

Answer 248

No. Council authorises the EC to negotiate a new trade agreement on behalf of the EU ("negotiating mandate"). Council provides negotiating directives incl. objectives, scope & possible time limits of negotiations. EC then negotiates with the partner country, in close cooperation with Council & EP After agreement on the text with partners: EC submits proposals for adoption to Council. Following discussions, the Council adopts a decision for the signature of the agreement on behalf of the EU. It then transmits the signed agreement to the EP for consent. Then, the Council adopts the decision to conclude the agreement.

Answer 249

The EC, mandated by the Council.

Answer 250

Standard GSP for low & lower-middle income countries: partial/full removal of customs duties on 2/3 of tariff lines. GSP+: special incentive arrangement for sustainability & good governance Everything but arms (EBA) in relation to the GSP (general scheme of oreference) Initiative under which all imports to EU from LDCs are (automatically, even if the LDCs have another trade arrangement in place) duty- & quota-free, excl. weapons. into force 2001. part of EU GSP.

Answer 251

- only Norway & Switzerland remain from the founding ones The European Free Trade Association (EFTA) is a regional trade organization & free trade area consisting of 4 European states: IS LI, NO & CH. All 4 MS participate in the European Single Market & are part of the Schengen Area. They are not party to the EU Customs Union.

Answer 252

* 1992. Support for Improvement in Governance & Management. Joint EC & OECD initiative, principally financed by EU. Focus: strengthen public management in areas like administrative reform, public procurement, anti-corruption, financial control. Partner countries: ALB, B&H, KOS, MNT, N. Macedonia, SRB, TR as EU (potential) candidate countries ALG, ARM, AZER, EGY, GEO, JDN, LEB, MOLD, MORO, TUN, UKR as EU Neighborhood countries.

Answer 253

The Kellogg-Briand Pact is international agreement in which signatory states promised not to use war to resolve "disputes or conflicts of whatever nature or of whatever origin they may be, which may arise among them".

Answer 254

ALB, B&H, Kosovo, N. Macedonia, MNTG & SRB.

Answer 255

103 members (57 founding) Mission to improve social & economic outcomes in Asia Beijing 2015/2016

Answer 256

membership: all EU MS + EU itself as non-member observer (2006), 57 participating states

Answer 257

· 37 members, 22 EU MS · EU no member (no voting / budget contribution but EC participates in work & has a permanent delegation to OECD)

Answer 258

EUCO appoints HR (with agreement by EC president) by QMV for 5 years & can end it with QM.

Answer 259

EUCO elects its own president by QM for a 2.5 year term, renewable once.

Answer 260

· General Affairs; · Foreign Affairs; · Economic and Financial Affairs; · Justice and Home Affairs; · Employment, Social Policy, Health and Consumer Affairs; · Competitiveness (Internal Market, Industry, Research and Space); · Transport, Telecommunications and Energy; · Agriculture and Fisheries; · Environment; · Education, Youth, Culture and Sport.

Answer 261

Consent: EP can accept/ reject a legislative proposal by absolute majority, but cannot amend it (used for withdrawal/ acceptance of a new MS, negotiation of new international agreements, serious breach of fundamental rights, new law on anti-discrimination); Consultation: EP may approve, reject or propose amendments to a legislative proposal (e.g. for internal market exemptions, financial matters & competition law, international agreements concerning CFSP). Council must consult EP (& in some cases also CoR, EESC, ECB), but is not bound by EP’ position.

Answer 262

MS holding the presidency work together closely in groups of three. Introduced by the Lisbon Treaty. The trio sets long-term goals & prepares a common agenda determining the topics & major issues that will be addressed by the Council over an 18-month period. Based on this programme, each Presidency prepares its own 6-month programme.

Answer 263

Unanimous decision by the Council + majority of votes in the EP.

Answer 264

23 MEP representing at least one-quarter (7) of the MS. Members may not belong to >1 political group.

Answer 265

*conclude & negotiate international agreements in accordance with its external commitments. *become a member of IOs. *join international conventions, such as the ECHR.

Answer 266

Once an EU law is passed, it can be necessary to (1) update it to reflect the developments in a particular sector -> delegated acts (2) ensure it is implemented properly -> implementing acts EP & Council can authorise the EC to adopt such acts Delegated act (Art. 290 TFEU): · non-legislative, binding acts that supplement/ amend non-essential elements of a legislative act. · widely used in many areas: internal market, agriculture, environment, consumer protection, transport, & area of freedom, security & justice. · legislative act must define objectives, scope, content & duration of the delegation of power · EP (simple majority) & Council (QM) can object/remove the delegation EC prepares & adopts delegated acts after consulting expert groups (representatives from each MS) Citizens & other stakeholders can provide feedback on the draft text act during a 4-week period. Exceptions, e.g. in case of emergency or when citizens and stakeholders have already contributed. Once EC has adopted the act, EP & Council have 2 months to formulate any objections. If they do not, the delegated act enters into force. Ø Implementing acts Applies in taxation, agriculture, internal market, health safety regulation Process: EC consults a committee representing MS (procedure referred as Comitology) Citizens & stakeholders can provide feedback on the draft text for 4 weeks before the committee votes. Exceptions e.g. emergency or when citizens & stakeholders have already contributed. Green paper =1st step, alongside consultation, in pre-proposal phase of legislation. Invites participation in consultation & debate. May give rise to legisl. developments outlined in White Papers. White Papers = proposals for EU action in a specific area. Sometimes follow on from a Green Paper. Purpose: launch a debate with the public, stakeholders, EP & Council to reach a political consensus.

Answer 267

55% of MS (15), min. 65% of EU population = double majority rule When the Council votes on a proposal not coming from EC or HR, reinforced QM needed · at least 72% of Council members vote in favour (19) · at least 65% of the EU population Abstention under QMV = vote against. Not the same as not participating in the vote. Vote only if majority of members present. C. member may only act on behalf of 1 other member. Blocking minority: at least 4 MS (15%) representing > 35% of the EU population.

Answer 268

allows the Council to change its voting procedure from unanimity to QMV on specific policy areas (excl. military). Introduced with Lisbon.

Answer 269

elect head of the EC, approve/reject international agreements, co-decide on the full budget (equal say with Council), new legislative powers (> 40 new fields, same level as Council), citizens’ initiative

Answer 270

Established in 2010 as an annual cycle of economic & fiscal policy coordination. Core component of EMU. Aggregates processes of control & coordination of budgetary, fiscal, economic & social policies. Runs November- June, preceded by national semesters July- October in which recommendations introduced by EC & approved by Council are to be construed into national legislation. (monitoring, prevention, correction) Goals: · ensure sound public finances (avoid excessive government debt) · prevent excessive macroeconomic imbalances in the EU · support structural reforms, to create more jobs & growth · boost investment.

Answer 271

Annual Sustainable Growth Survey (ASGS) – Autumn Package outlines the EU’s economic & employment policy priorities for the coming 12- 18 months. 4 dimensions: environmental sustainability, productivity, fairness, macroeconomic stability. EC gives MS policy guidance. It applies to the EU as a whole and to MS individually. Its main messages will form the basis for the Country-Specific Recommendations next spring.

Answer 272

2014 Objective: prevent emerging threats to escalate to the point where EC has to trigger Article 7 TEU. 3-stage process. They are: · EC assessment · EC recommendation · monitoring of the EU country’s follow-up to the EC recommendation If no solution is found within the framework, Article 7 is the last resort

Answer 273

3 headline targets for the EU 2030 in line with the SDGs · At least 78% of people aged 20 to 64 in employment. · At least 60% of all adults participate in training every year. · number of people at risk of poverty or social exclusion reduced by at least 15 millio

Answer 274

General Secretariat of the Council took over in 1999, as set out in the Treaty of Amsterdam.

Answer 275

Seeks to bring more coherence to higher education systems across Europe. Established the European Higher Education Area to facilitate student & staff mobility, make higher education more inclusive, accessible, attractive and competitive. As part of the European Higher Education Area, all participating countries agreed to: · 3-cycle higher education system (bachelor's, master's & doctoral studies) · mutual recognition of qualifications & learning periods abroad completed at other universities · system of quality assurance, to strengthen the quality of learning & teaching (No promotion of language learning)

Answer 276

1. A European Green Deal 2. A Europe fit for the digital age 3. An economy that works for people 4. A stronger Europe in the world 5. Promoting our European way of life 6. A new push for European democracy

Answer 277

1957 Main source of EU development aid for ACP countries & overseas territories. Until 2020 directly financed by the MS (voluntary donations), subject to its own financial rules & procedures, managed by EC & EIB. Incorporated into the EU's general budget as of the 2021-2027 MFF.

Answer 278

Unity, budgetary accuracy, annuality, equilibrium, unit of account (€), universality, specification (each appropriation for particular kind of expenditure), sound financial management, transparency

Answer 279

Set up to respond to major natural disasters & express European solidarity to disaster-stricken regions within Europe. Created as a reaction to the severe floods in Central Europe in 2002.

Answer 280

(1.074 trillion) + NGEU (750 bn.) =€1.8 trillion

Answer 281

*1991, internat. centre for training & debate for lawyers. Public foundation based in Trier. Objective: promote the awareness, understanding & good practice of European law. Funded by EU & all MS.

Answer 282

1951/57: BE, NL, LUX, DE, FR, IT (6) 1973 : DK, IE, UK 1981: EL 1986: PT, ES 1995: AT, FI, SE 2004: PL, CZ, SK, HU, EE, LT, LV, CY, MT, SI 2007:RO; BG 2013: HR

Answer 283

Ø Treaty establishing the European Coal & Steel Community Signed 1951, entered into force 1952 Purpose: to create interdependence in coal & steel so that one country could no longer mobilise its armed forces without others knowing. This eased distrust & tensions after WWII. Ø Treaties of Rome : EEC & EURATOM treaties Signed 1957, entered into force 1958 Purpose: to set up the EEC & Euratom Main changes: extension of European integration to include general economic cooperation. Ø Merger Treaty - Brussels Treaty Signed 1965, entered into force 1967 Purpose: to streamline the European institutions. Main changes: creation of a single EC & a single Council to serve the then three European Communities (EEC, Euratom, ECSC). Ø Single Euro Signed 1986, entered into force 1987 Purpose: to reform the institutions in preparation for PT & ES membership & speed up decision-making in preparation for the single market. Main changes: extension of QMV in Council, creation of cooperation & assent procedures, giving EP more influence. Ø Treaty on European Union - Maastricht Treaty Signed 1992, entered into force 1993 Purpose: to prepare for European Monetary Union & introduce elements of a political union (citizenship, common foreign & internal affairs policy). Main changes: establishment of the EU & introduction of the co-decision procedure, giving EP more say in decision-making. New forms of cooperation between EU governments e.g. on defence & justice & home affairs. Ø Treaty of Amsterdam Signed 1997, entered into force 1999 Purpose: To reform the EU institutions in preparation for the arrival of future MS Main changes: amendment, renumbering & consolidation of EU & EEC treaties. More transparent decision-making (increased use of OLP). Ø Treaty of Nice Signed 2001, entered into force 2003 Purpose: to reform the institutions so that the EU could function efficiently after reaching 25 MS Main changes: changing the composition of the EC & redefining the voting system in the Council. Ø Treaty of Lisbon Signed 2007, entered into force 2009 Purpose: to make the EU more democratic, efficient & better able to address global problems 1 voice. Main changes: more power for the EP, change of voting procedures in the Council, citizens' initiative, permanent EUCO president, a new HR for Foreign Affairs, EEAS, legal personality of EU The Lisbon treaty clarifies which powers: - belong to the EU - belong to MS - are shared.

Answer 284

To facilitate and maintain the stability of the Economic and Monetary Union (EMU)

Answer 285

1972: EEC central-bank governors concluded the 'Basel Agreement', creating a mechanism called the ‘Snake in the tunnel’: MS could fluctuate within narrow limits against the $ & central banks could buy and sell European currencies, provided they remained within the fluctuation margin of 2.25%. Original participants in the mechanism: FR, DE, IT, LUX, NL First oil crisis in 1973 & weak compliance -> mechanism's failure. BUT: momentum built over previous decade endured, continued efforts for area of currency stability.

Answer 286

European Exchange Rate mechanism (ERM) was introduced in 1979 to stabilise exchange rates Part of the Banking Union are European Deposit Insurance Scheme, Single Supervisory Mechanism, & Single Resolution Mechanism

Answer 287

To join the euro area, MS must fulfil 'convergence/Maastricht criteria'

Answer 288

Set up as financial institution in 2013 (fusion of former Stability Fund & Financial Stability Mechanism). Mission: Financial assistance to euro area countries experiencing severe financing problems to safeguard the financial stability

Answer 289

ECB President (Christine Lagarde) & Vice-President & 4 other members, all appointed for 8-year terms by leaders of the eurozone MS (EUCO, via QM, after EP consultation).

Answer 290

Keep global temperature rise below 2C, ideally 1.5, & reduce emissions by 55% from 1990 levels by 2030, "net-zero" by 2050

Answer 291

CJEU1995. Freedom of movement for workers + freedom of association Context: Bosman vs. FC Liège (ECJ sanctioned UEFA’s national quota imposition in football clubs)

Answer 292

Montenegro, Serbia, Turkey, the Republic of North Macedonia, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Kosovo

Answer 293

EB + 19 governors of euro area NCBS

Answer 294

consists of the European Central Bank (ECB) and the national central banks (NCBs) of all 27 member states of the European Union (EU).

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