N°61/December 2017 EPFMA BULLETIN Former Members Association www.formermembers.eu

FOCUS FMA Activities

Europe of Political FMA Study Visit to Communication Washington Page 12 Page 21 2 FMA BULLETIN - 61

IN THIS ISSUE

03 Message from the President digital communication (Andrea Manzella) 04 EP at Work 14 Fake News (Mariya Gabriel) CURRENT AFFAIRS 16 The EP institutional communication strategy ’s Democratic 05 The future EU Budget: Opposition, laureates of the EP (Jaume Duch Guillot) for Freedom of Make the EU great again Thought. © (Edit Herczog) 18 Youth, Politics and Communication: A short how-to Cultural diversity: key 06 (Leonie Martin) for a strong and united EU (Carole Tongue) 07 has voted FMA ACTIVITIES (Gisela Kallenbach) 21 FMA Study Visit to U.S.A. 08 For an integrated 32 Former Members Network Sámi Blood winner of the 2017 Defence of Europe . ©European Union (Dolores García-Hierro Caraballo) 34 Visit under EU Presidency 09 The EU’s fight for the deal 36 Photo Report (Tarja Cronberg) 10 Not in the name of honour LATEST NEWS (Karin Junker) 37 Activities

Livia Járóka and Fabio Massimo 37 In memoriam Castaldo elected Vice-Presidents FOCUS of the European Parliament. 38 New members ©European Union 12 Politics and

CALL FOR CONTRIBUTIONS:

The Editorial Board would like to thank all those members who took the time to contribute to this issue of the FMA Bulletin. We would like to draw your attention to the fact that the decision to include an article lies with the FMA Editorial Board and, in principle, contributions from members who are not up-to-date with the payment of the membership fee will not be included. Due to the long time lag between the call for contribution and the publication, some articles may be outdated. The FMA Bulletin is published by the European Parliament Former Members Association (FMA) with the assistance of the Europe- an Parliament. However, the views expressed in articles represent the views of contributing FMA members or guest writers and do not necessarily represent the views of either the European Parliament nor the FMA. Similarly, any advertisement does not imply an official endorsement by the FMA or Parliament.

EDITORIAL BOARD PREPARED BY CONTACTS Brigitte LANGENHAGEN Elisabetta FONCK [email protected] Andrea MANZELLA Lisseth BRAVO Tel.+ 32(0)2 284 07 03 Edward McMILLAN-SCOTT Valeh NASIRI Fax.+32(0)2 284 09 89 Manuel PORTO Marta FALGÀS Teresa RIERA MADURELL Message from the PRESIDENT

Dear colleagues, Manzella. The main subject discussed Committee on Foreign Affairs and was ‘The Future of Europe’ and the of the Subcommittee on Security Another year is coming to an end. meeting debated the statement and Defence and President of the Another year full of change and proposed by Mr Walter Schwimmer Kangaroo Group, Ivailo Kalfin, hope for the European Union. As (Secretary General of the Council Member of the High Level Group on we found from our Study Visit of Europe from 1999 to 2004). Own Resources and EP to Washington from 24 to 28 Another dominant issue was the on Critical Information Infrastructure September, Europe must stay united murder of the Maltese journalist Protection, and Sir Julian King, EU now more than ever. Faced with Daphne Caruana Galizia. Our FMA Commissioner for the Security Union. a difficult international situation representatives led the initiative to It was a fascinating and stimulating where President Donald Trump is issue a press release condemning this debate for both members and pushing for a neoliberal world order brutal act. We must remember that students alike. A video of the event is of anarchy and war and propagating freedom of expression is one of the available on the FMA website. his ideology of “America First”, a pillars of the European Union and Our recruitment drive for new slogan that reflects self-interest and acts like Daphne’s murder have no members has been making a desire for a world in which each place in Europe. good progress, with a further 26 country only looks after its own In other news, a delegation from colleagues joining us in 2017. I interests, Europe must stand united the FMA led by Lord Richard Balfe want to thank all of you who have as an example. paid a visit to from 5 to 7 helped the campaign; remember, our During our visit, which was organised November. Our members had the existing members are best placed to in cooperation with the European chance to talk with former Estonian showcase the work of the FMA and Parliament Liaison Office with the MEPs and visited the Riigikogu explain its importance. If you know US Congress, we had the pleasure (Estonian Parliament) where they somebody who might be interested of being invited to the annual met with Marianne Mikko, member in joining us, don’t hesitate to get meeting of the US Association of of the European Affairs Committee them in touch with the secretariat; if Former Members of Congress, where and Defence Committee. It was each of us recruits one new member, we were given a warm welcome. a productive visit that focussed we could achieve so much more We also had the chance to find on Estonia’s programme for the together and maximise the potential out about the work of important presidency and the example the of the FMA’s programmes. organisations and think tanks and country sets to others as one of the Finally, I should like to thank to exchange ideas with academics leading digital nations in Europe. everyone who has taken part in and student representatives. Among You can find a report on the visit the events organised by the FMA, the issues discussed were the in this bulletin. especially those members who transatlantic relationship and the EU I want to thank all those who have worked throughout the year and climate change. You can find a came to and helped to organise on the ‘EP to Campus’ programme report on the visit in this bulletin. the FMA’s annual events on 29 and with universities. Thank you for This issue deals with communication 30 November. It was a pleasure to making our association’s continued and social media, two very topical see so many people in attendance. success a reality. subjects. European experts and Our guest of honour was Mirek I wish you, your family and friends our colleagues tell us how social Topolánek, former Prime Minister a very merry Christmas and a happy media networks have reshaped of the and former New Year for 2018. communication in politics and President of the Council. what changes we can expect to see The FMA annual seminar, attended in the future. by a large group of students from The Bureau meeting of the Belgian universities, addressed the European Association of former issue of ‘EU Global Strategy on parlamentarians was held on Security and Defence’. I should 3 November in Malta, where our like to thank all of our speakers association was represented by for agreeing to take part, namely Enrique BARÓN CRESPO Brigitte Langenhagen and Andrea Michael Gahler, Member of the FMA President 4 FMA BULLETIN - 61

EP AT WORK

KEY FACTS

MEPs pass EU scheme to support free WIFI Identifying endocrine disruptors (October in public spaces (September Session - P8_TA- Session - P8_TA-PROV(2017)0376) PROV(2017)0326). Parliament blocked an EU Commission proposal which The scheme pave the way towards free internet would have exempted some chemicals in pesticides spots in public places for all EU citizens and from being identified as endocrine disruptors. forms part of efforts to create a Digital Union. A common electronic system at the Schengen MEPs voted in favour of new Rules to strengthen area’s external borders was backed by MEPs. the security of gas supplies across the EU (October Session - P8_TA-PROV(2017)0411) (September Session - P8_TA-PROV(2017)0327). The new Entry/Exit System (EES) will register Any EU country faced with a gas supply crisis will be information on non-EU nationals when they enter, exit able to alert the others and thus trigger cross-border or are refused entry into the Schengen area. assistance to prevent cuts. Rule of law and democracy in (November EP green light for setting up EU Prosecutor to Session - P8_TA-PROV(2017)0442) fight fraud against EU funds (October Session - MEPs believe that the situation in Poland represents P8_TA-PROV(2017)0384). a “clear risk of a serious breach” of the European The European Public Prosecutor’s Office will be in values, including the rule of law and took formal steps charge of investigating and prosecuting perpetrators to trigger the first stage of the Article 7 procedure. of offences against the EU budget.

Other main dossiers discussed in the plenary sessions were: September 2017 in 2016 and 2017. (14.09.17) • Packaged loans converted into • MEPs discussed ways to shape • Easier access to capital securities will have to be made less the EU’s future in a debate with for innovative and socially complex and more transparent, say Commission President Jean-Claude beneficial companies under new rules approved by MEPs. (26.10.17) Juncker. (13.09.17) rules voted by the EP. (14.09.17) • Buying online: MEPs • MEPs backed a legislative • MEPs want legislative approved EU-wide rules to better proposal, under which EU countries information and documents protect consumers. (14.11.17) have to ensure a balance in to be directly accessible to • MEPs said in a resolution that CO2 emissions. (13.09.17) the public throughout the Malta needs to prop up its • MEPs opposed relaxing legislative process. (14.09.17) rule of law and the Commission checks on food imports from October 2017 must monitor the country closely; Fukushima region as this could MEPs called for an independent • Brexit: MEPs said that tangible lead to increased exposure to international investigation into the progress is still needed on radioactive contamination and assassination of journalist Daphne withdrawal terms. (03.10.17) absorption from forests, croplands Caruana Galizia. (15.11.17) • COP23: MEPs called on the EU to and grasslands. (13.09.17) • MEPs recommended a new set out a mid-century zero emissions • MEPs gave the green light for EU-Africa strategy also aimed strategy by 2018. (04.10.17) rules providing disabled people at strengthening the resilience • Stricter EU rules to better with easier access to key of African countries. (16.11.17) protect workers from exposure products and services. (14.09.17) to carcinogens or mutagens • MEPs approved nearly 1.2 billion For more information, please visit : € at work won Parliament’s in EU aid to repair the damage http://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/en/ final approval. (25.10.17) caused by earthquakes in central news-room/plenary FMA BULLETIN - 61 5

CURRENT AFFAIRS THE FUTURE EU BUDGET: MAKE THE EU GREAT AGAIN

The Multiannual Financial Framework ago are insufficient to make infrastructures: Energy Union, and is one of the cornerstones of the Europe great again. the Digital Single Market. European Union. The seven years The vision of the EU in the ‘The EU budget has to duration and the 1,13% of GNI 21st century is simple: to keep the were the symbols of continuity EU for the next period the best place be Investment into the and stability. The own resources to live, to love and to work. To make future, rather than a combined with Member States the EU great and greater again. simple balance sheet.’ contribution were enough to secure We live in an age of disruption and at the same time Member States in a new world order. The emerging We have to stand for the agreed with continuous influence and new technologies disrupting our Climate goals and modernise our Commission with freedom to act. economies, political and social agriculture, industries and services In 2013 neither statement was valid systems include work and daily life. accordingly. We have to achieve that anymore. After the Enlargement The Climate Change is knocking the EU population is harnessed for in 2004, the countries joining the at our doors, resulting in natural the future by continuous learning EU, and thus, the Customs Union disasters and migration. We see the and new skills. We have to stand for –no longer paid customs to the EU concentration of power of a few our values, starting with respect of budget. In the same period of time giants, while in the same time, more fundamental human rights and all most of the levies were reduced and more are losing opportunities. agreed freedoms and security. We and disappeared, due to the WTO The historical challenge of the have to stand for each individual rules. The EU Member States had to European Council is similar to in the European Union; young or fulfil their obligations and finance what it was during the previous old, man or woman, East or West, the difference. The distortion ended similar exercise in Edinburgh in South or North. up with about 15% own resources 1992. The commonly agreed If we agree the priorities, we can versus 85% of Member States’ vision to keep the 15 countries in decide on resources and turn the direct payment. No surprise that a successful Union was sufficient EU towards a new paths. The EU the Member States were asking for for 20 years. They agreed resources budget has to be Investment into the more influence. and shared responsibilities with future, rather than a simple balance In 2013, the UK achieved a reduction the and the sheet. We need Budget for Result. to 1% of GNI. In 2017, it is clear that European Parliament. The ambition to achieve efficiency and effectiveness to maximize the the current MFF is underfinanced, ‘The vision of the EU and the headings agreed decades outcome is advisable. in the 21st century is To achieve these goals, it is not simple: to keep the EU for enough to bring more resources together. The European countries, the next period the best standing shoulder to shoulder is also place to live, to love and required. The first step is to keep the to work. To make the EU promise of the euro by all countries great and greater again.’ who agreed to it. The European Union has to serve the citizens. It is the same rule for the EU budget. We need a new agreement by the European Council now. Our priorities are our prosperity, our welfare and our security and safety. Edit Herczog We have to put resources to new S&D, (2004-2014) ©European Union data economy, based on the related [email protected] 6 FMA BULLETIN - 61

CURRENT AFFAIRS CULTURAL DIVERSITY: KEY FOR A STRONG AND UNITED EU

The shift to digital is having an 900 million users has returned European works and to give them important impact on the cultural only $553 million to rights holders. due prominence on their platforms. sector. Many creators and cultural By contrast, 212 million users of The European Parliament is on its industries now have the possibility audio subscription services (like way to achieving this by voting in to make and distribute more cultural Spotify) contributed over $3.9 billion committee a relevant 30% quota of works more easily online. to rights holders. European works to be mandatory in Increasingly citizens watch, listen or With this unbalanced situation, the video on demand catalogues. read cultural creative works online. promotion and the protection of ‘The EU has to do more In parallel, there has been a rapid cultural diversity in the EU are more concentration of platforms led by important than ever. for our culture online.’ a few non–EU players. Hence, the Indeed, the values of cultural The E-commerce and IPRED directive market is now governed by big diversity, particularly on screen, are need updating to tackle abuses, digital platforms that significantly many: democratic …ensuring that piracy and criminality online. distort the value chain, impact often as many human stories are visible The Copyright Directive must be negatively on creators’ remuneration in order to illuminate the human reformed so that creators and and contribute little to Europe’s condition. In turn public policies authors can thrive, underpinned cultural diversity of expression. can more accurately reflect the by sustainable financial resources. The GAFA (Google, Amazon, reality of people’s lives. Education The Creative Europe programme Facebook and Apple) receive and information about the complex should have more resources. It may enormous transfers of value from nature of societies is necessary for us be the only way a platform majoring the creative sector and its authors. to act as informed citizens. Cultural in European works can emerge to Jonathan Taplin estimates that this diversity underpins identity and compete with non-EU players. transfer is of the order of $50 billion values. In addition, those values are President Juncker is right to call for a per annum1. not always linked necessarily with fair framework for corporate taxation In 2016, in the music sector, commerce and profitability unlike at EU level. rights holders revenue is very the activities of most non-EU players. The EU has to do more for our uneven. Youtube used by Therefore, cultural diversity of culture online. This is a major 1. Move Fast And Break Things by expression needs to be promoted. democratic issue for future Jonathan Taplin. p 6. 2017. ISBN 978-1- ‘The promotion and the generations. Creative works of 5098-4769-3 all kinds, shared across frontiers, protection of cultural particularly through the internet, diversity in the EU are will enhance our creative industries more important than and high quality jobs and increase ever.’ the sense of being part of the same continent with common important EU law doesn’t apply to new values. If we want a strong and platforms as it does to traditional unified Europe, we have to act players. Their propensity to make in support of creators and our and distribute content largely from creative industries. one culture in competition with traditional European players tends to reduce the cultural choices available. Our artists need a fair chance of being able to create and then for our Distribution of cinematographic works citizens to access their work online. Carole Tongue and audiovisual programmes - Media We must ask the new internet video PES, (1984-1999) Programme EC © European Communities on demand platforms to carry more [email protected] FMA BULLETIN - 61 7

GERMANY HAS VOTED

For the first time in Germany’s disenchanted, the fearful and the freedom of expression, democracy post-war history, a party which protest voters. These voters in turn and the rule of law are taken for employs nationalist and at times split into the conservatives, who feel granted, and not valued as the great racist rhetoric that pours scorn on betrayed by the overtly liberal turn achievements they represent? One fundamental rights and democratic taken by the CDU under Merkel, and reason, I believe, is that schools, institutions will be entering the who fear loss of social status and colleges and universities have failed Bundestag. A trend seen elsewhere change; and the people who feel to educate people about politics. The in Europe has now, unfortunately, left behind, abandoned by politicians knee-jerk rejection of the ideologised reached Germany. who focus on digitalisation, GDR curriculum has turned into The AfD came second in many of globalisation and migration. All three an insurmountable obstacle to the eastern German Länder and groups share a profound scepticism political education and debate. As topped the polls in Saxony. The towards the so-called elites of the party of government in Saxony party, most of whose leaders are of politics, business and the media. As since reunification, the CDU has West German origin, also did well overblown as this scepticism and this ignored all the calls made by the ‘left’ in some of the economically strong rejection of mainstream politics may opposition and turned a deaf ear western Länder, securing more than be, they are fuelled by real problems, to frustrated and anxious citizens. 10% of the vote. which have been significantly more Continuing down the path of trying Campaigners who over the past few prevalent in eastern Germany. It to copy the rhetoric and vocabulary weeks stepped up their efforts to is clear that many people - too employed by the AfD and pin the get people to vote and encourage many people - experienced the blame for their poor performance discussion met with a great deal of reunification of Germany, and the on Merkel’s refugee policy will only indifference, rejection and apathy. subsequent impact of globalisation lead to disaster. Why make do with Not so surprising, then, that the and liberalisation, as a painful loss an imitation when you can have elections turned out the way they of identity, stability and security, to the real thing, voters will conclude. did. AfD voters can be divided into the extent that some even feel that What we really need is for AfD three groups. First, there are the true they no longer belong in their own policies to be challenged by means believers, most of whom have voted country. The process of change that of informed, objective debate. The far-right in the past. They support they have had to go through - but AfD offers no solutions to the major the hatred and racism incited by which they themselves chose - has issues facing modern society: social many AfD politicians. Then, there left deeper scars than previously justice, security, climate change, is the much bigger group of the assumed. Job losses, patchwork education, the democratisation employment histories, the low-wage of society, the solidarity of Europe economy, the flight of the younger and global responsibility. generation and demographic Forming the new government change (particularly in rural areas) will certainly be a lengthy increasingly mean that they feel like and difficult process. second-class citizens. And now there With the AfD in the Bundestag, it will are the immigrants, with whom be up to the democratically-minded they will have to share what little majority to defend and uphold they have left, or so they believe. the rule of law, human rights, People are afraid. The parallels universalism, freedom and equality as with our neighbouring countries non-negotiable values in Germany. in central and eastern Europe I’m optimistic. are all too obvious. On the other hand, how can it be Gisela Kallenbach that the clear improvements in Greens/EFA, Germany (2004-2009) Bundesrat ©European Communities quality of life, freedom of movement, [email protected] 8 FMA BULLETIN - 61

FOR AN INTEGRATED DEFENCE OF EUROPE

Europe’s defence and security are increasingly in need of a new order to strengthen them, given the growing threats from different fronts, such as destabilising terrorist attacks by Daesh or cyber-attacks. Global security is under threat. And this calls for a global response, just as proposed in the Declaration of March of this year and as pledged by the President of the European Commission in his State of the Union European flags fly at half-mast to pay tribute to the victims of the terrorist attacks in speech of September 2016. Barcelona and Cambrils, in ©European Union 2017 In fact, the Union of 27 EU is and should be much more than just a for coordination and the transfer play a role in terms of collaboration single market, or a body that just of information among the security and coordination with other recommends economic activities. services as well as Europol. security services. It is first and foremost a Union of This calls for joint and coordinated Granted, with a view to 2025, 450 million European citizens and action of all 27 Member States. the Commission is actively a project for Peace and Social Expenditure on defence amounts to contributing to the establishment of Welfare for our present and over EUR 180 000 million and there comprehensive European defence future generations. are 1.5 million soldiers in Europe, but and security, with a growing The fight against Daesch also very few, just over 6000, are currently integration of national defence requires modern and interoperable deployed or working together in instruments. It has also created a defence equipment, as well as joint humanitarian, peace-keeping, European Defence Fund, which could internal and external operational or counter-terrorism actions in amount to 1% of the EU budget deployments. In fact, the European Europe and outside Europe. Given from 2020, moving towards a Union should play a central role and their qualifications and knowledge, Security and Defence Union, a major should enhance the mechanisms there is currently a need for them to concern being, however, that London will cease to be part of the European Defence Agency and Europol by leaving the Union. It is our responsibility to make the European Union a project for shared Security, Peace and Social Welfare, making cooperation under a common policy necessary.

Dolores García-Hierro Caraballo S&D, Spain (2011-2014) EUROCORPS’ soldiers walking around on basement ©European Union [email protected] FMA BULLETIN - 61 9

THE EU’S FIGHT FOR THE IRAN DEAL

The Iran deal is an international has called the ‘worst deal ever’ and party to the accord agree to this agreement that functions well. It an ‘embarrassment’ for the US. and has threatened to pull the US corresponds to the European Union’s According to the EU’s High out of the agreement if the changes understanding of a rule based and Representative Federica Mogherini, are not made. multilateral international order. The the deal should be implemented as The EU is in a difficult position, as 2015 deal, also called the Joint agreed, since it is ‘delivering’. The both the international prestige and Comprehensive Plan of Action, or other European partners, , the economic benefits related to JCPOA, is one of the few success Germany and the UK, are unified the deal are at risk. There is a need stories of the EU as a global actor in in their support for the deal and for a solid EU strategy on how to foreign and security policy. opposed to any renegotiation. Both maintain the deal and prevent its ‘There will also be a and have expressed renegotiation and expansion. There their interest in preserving the deal. will also be a need for an immediate need for an immediate Iran’s Supreme Leader has confirmed reaction if Congress introduces reaction if Congress that ‘we will not tear up the [nuclear] sanctions that affect European banks introduces sanctions that deal before the other party does so’. and companies doing business in affect European banks What happens next is an open Iran. Strong economic counter- question. Congress will take the next measures have been called for to and companies doing step and might issue a new set of prevent any impact on EU economic business in Iran.’ non nuclear sanctions or reimpose interests in Iran. the sanctions related to the nuclear Furthermore, the insecure future President Trump has made a decision programme. The later would be a of the deal is having an impact not to certify the deal. This does not breach of the agreement and imply far beyond its scope. Nuclear non mean that Iran is not in compliance that the US has unilaterally left proliferation diplomacy, the EU’s with the provisions. On the contrary, the JCPOA. To prevent this, new signature approach, is being called the International Atomic Energy GOP legislation is in the pipeline into question. Would North Korea Agency (IAEA) has repeatedly in Congress to expand the deal’s ever give up its nuclear weapons as confirmed that Iran has followed criteria to include missile testing, a result of diplomatic negotiations, the rules. However, US law requires which is currently outside the deal. if one of the main partners, the US, presidential confirmation every The legislation is aimed at meeting might ‘decertify’ at any time? Would 90 days and includes additional Trump’s demands that Congress act this mean that the military option is criteria related to US national quickly to toughen up the existing the only alternative? security. The President believes that law that governs US participation the deal is not in the US’s national in the Iran nuclear deal. Trump is Dr Tarja Cronberg is a former MEP security interests. He would prefer a also insisting that other countries and was Chair of the EP’s Delegation renegotiation of the deal, which he for relations with Iran in 2011-2014. She is the author of the recent book: ‘Nuclear Multilateralism and Iran: Inside EU Negotiations’ (Routledge 2017).

Tarja Cronberg Former Chair of the EP’s Delegation for relations with Iran From right to left: Hassan Rohani, President of Iran, Donald Tusk, President of the European in 2011-2014. Council, and Federica Mogherini, High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Greens/EFA, (2011-2014) Security Policy / Vice-President of the Commission ©European Union 2015 [email protected] 10 FMA BULLETIN - 61

NOT IN THE NAME OF HONOUR

Migration and the influx of refugees Of course, boys and men are also Child marriages and forced marriages have left the EU Member States victims of sexual violence and forced should not be tolerated under any facing a number of new challenges, marriages, but far more girls and circumstances. But what exemptions for example forms of violence and women are affected, as in many should be granted for consensual duress against girls and women countries and many societies around marriages involving young people which were previously virtually the world they have no right to who are barely still minors? This does unheard of. ‘Honour killings’ - the self-determination. happen - and it is not unusual for the murder of wives or female family Genital mutilation was unequivocally couples concerned to already have members deemed to have acted ‘im- condemned as long ago as in 1995, a child. Until recently in Germany, morally’ and thereby ‘dishonoured’ at the UN World Conference on an exemption was granted for their husband or family - occasion- Women in Beijing. Around the same persons over the age of 16, but ally made the headlines, but child time the ACP-EU Joint Assembly also following problems in connection marriages, forced marriages and the adopted a resolution calling for the with under-age marriages between genital mutilation of girls and women practice to be halted, although some refugees it was abolished and the only began to be openly discussed critics argued that cultural norms marriageable age was raised to the by politicians and the media as the and/or traditional customs were age of majority (18). Overall, the numbers of migrants swelled. The being wrongly called into question. legal provisions and political and migrants have also brought certain Many African countries have since social responses to these challenges types of violence with them - acid made genital mutilation a criminal in Europe are lagging behind reality, attacks, for example. offence, but we know that it is as has been well documented by the These crimes have absolutely nothing still practised. Many women who European Parliamentary Research to do with ‘honour’. And one thing come to Europe from developing Service. However, awareness of the must be made absolutely clear: countries have been circumcised. situation is improving; increasing perpetrators can expect no leniency Some accept that their daughters globalisation, the emergence of in the EU! will suffer the same fate when they diasporas and migration mean that In 2011, the Council of Europe visit relatives in their home countries the problem is not going to go away addressed the issue through the (circumcision performed in a third Rules and, if necessary, the criminal Istanbul Convention. It constituted country is also punishable by law law will not in themselves be enough the first binding instrument intended in the EU!), but others are strongly to tackle it effectively; what is needed to combat all forms of violence opposed to the practice. In European are bodies which can provide advice against women: sexual violence countries, such as Germany, there and assistance - there are currently of all kinds, domestic violence, are now specialist doctors who far too few of them. sexual harassment, stalking, child operate to help the many women Prevention is just as important as marriages, forced marriages suffering from the serious health education: integrating migrants and and genital mutilation. consequences of circumcision. refugees also means making them understand that exercising violence and duress against children, women and, of course, men is at odds with European values and that women, like men, have an unconditional right to self-determination. That we can accept in the name of honour!

Karin Junker A woman with her child sits on rocks at the port of Mytilene, on the Eastern island of PES, Germany (1989-2004) Lesbos © European Union [email protected] FMA BULLETIN - 61 11

FOCUS

EUROPE OF POLITICAL COMMUNICATION

©iStock 12 FMA BULLETIN - 61

FOCUS POLITICS AND DIGITAL COMMUNICATION

The IT revolution has turned political The situation has been turned on its communication on its head. We now head. ‘Politics as communication’ has What are social media? have a ‘before’ and an ‘after’. now emerged, in the mainstream, Social media encompass a ‘Before’, we saw ‘politics’, in the from the depths of the ‘virtual’ range of information and form of thought and action, develop audience of solitary social network communication technologies solely in community venues: political users on the internet. used for sharing information and parties, workplaces, think tanks, ‘Communication has opinions, often through explicit trade unions, interest groups and, connections with other people or of course, elected assemblies. been transformed – like groups. They include: Politics was thus based on the Frankenstein’s monster • Interactive websites that debate and dialogue that took – from a political tool use ‘Web 2.0’ techniques to encourage usercontributed place in these socially ‘real’ places. into the essence of ‘Communication’ was a political content and comment tool – namely, the ‘means’ by which politics, in the guise of • Blogs (i.e. personal, publicly to disseminate beliefs and action a rebellion against the available journals) that allow plans, which had taken shape in the form, procedures and anyone to report or comment collective exchanges of opinions. on news and events ‘It was only yesterday institutions of traditional • Micro-blogging services such as Twitter that make that traditional ‘politics’ politics: and this was how anti-politics was born.’ it possible to publish, still had the ability to instantaneously, short guide the Web.’ It was only yesterday that traditional messages to which other ‘politics’ still had the ability to guide users can subscribe All this, of course, still exists. But the Web. The first presidential • Photo and video-sharing we are in the ‘interregnum’ of campaign of Barack Obama, for services like Flickr or YouTube transition, because the ‘after’ example, was able to channel the that let users publish material has already begun. In this ‘after’ scattered forces of online opinions they have produced phase, communication is no longer in his meet-ups. This meant that • Social networking services a political tool, but has become, ‘politics’ was able to transform the (SNS) such as Facebook and in itself, ‘politics’. the professional network LinkedIn, which allow users to create an online profile and to link to – and communicate with – friends, colleagues and organisations.

Source: 2014. EPRS. Social media in election campaigning

virtual communities of the Web into real associations. Communication was still a political tool. Then, almost imperceptibly, came the great transformation. Every day politics is increasingly becoming the Social Network: Twitter on tablet ©European Union. slave and follower of the Web. The FMA BULLETIN - 61 13

institutions, even though this is vital. The basic question is: how innocent is the Web, how spontaneous are the opinions it records? ‘European politics must find its way again by inventing these safeguard procedures.’ The same technological progress that engendered the digital revolution tells us that it can be guided and manipulated from above. Indeed, we know that the (private) companies which own the search engines and Voxbox in . Facebook chat ©European Union 2017 social networks also have extremely strong powers to influence their emotions, perceptions and moods the rationalisation of dialectics content. They can therefore influence of the Web have become ‘politics’ and the rules of argumentation electoral decisions and, accordingly, in themselves. Election winners are were born simultaneously in that the very parliamentary institutions those who are in tune with what environment. None of this can themselves. the internet expresses, i.e. with be found in the ‘set’ of opinions The basic question of freedom posed its groundswell which fears no available online. These have no by the new political communication contradiction because it is based on ‘weight’ in the discussion, but are in the digital era is therefore that of changing, day-to-day activity, with only vaguely ‘counted’. effective monitoring in the public no memory of the past, nor vision And thus, communication has been interest, to prevent the abuses of the of the future. transformed – like Frankenstein’s private domain perpetrated by a few. Can we call all this direct democracy? monster – from a political tool into European politics must find its way No, that would be wrong. Even the the essence of politics, in the guise again by inventing these safeguard mythical direct democracy of the of a rebellion against the form, procedures. It has to take a twin- Athenian polis consisted of decisions procedures and institutions of track approach to ‘democratising’ that were preceded by collective traditional politics: and this was how digital political communication: in reasoning. It is no coincidence that anti-politics was born. respect of those who, in actual fact, The prime target of this anti-politics govern it and can distort it to their is – and why would it be otherwise own ends; and in respect of those – parliaments. Or rather, the very who monopolise it, following a concept of parliament as an idea ‘pensée unique’. based on reasoning and dialogue. This is a democratic battle to We can all notice this corruption of safeguard, against all forms of political communication by logging influence, the system of freedom on to the social networks at our upon which the EU’s identity is based. own computers. And it is easy for populist movements to exploit that for electoral purposes, by surfing the waves of current opinions. There is therefore a great democratic issue at stake here. But it is not only a Andrea Manzella Hostage of modern technologies ©iStock question of defending parliamentary PES, Italy (1994-1999) [email protected] 14 FMA BULLETIN - 61

FAKE NEWS

have become the main source of our citizens’ trust in digital information Fake news: deliberately news and information to the extent remains abysmally low. A recent fabricated stories posing as that secretive algorithms are now Eurobarometer survey revealed that journalism with the aim of effectively shaping the information only 7% of respondents believe even manipulating readers. flow of each and every one of us. reliable stories, published on social Today we speak of this as a filter media. If we couple this with the fact source: 2017, EPRS, ‘Fake news’ bubble. Facebook and Google, for that social media represent the main and the EU’s response. example, control approximately three information source for Europeans out of every four visits to any legacy under-35, hardly anyone would Fake news is not new. History, in and media site. object that online disinformation out of Europe, offers many examples Who is taking advantage of this? is a serious threat, which requires of what, at the time, was ‘fake While traditional media are still there, solutions. news’. Julius Caesar’s heir Octavian there are also the start-ups; new ‘The problem is the other and his rival Mark Anthony waged ideas, which are changing the nature a well-documented disinformation of the production and distribution side of this vast universe, war. For centuries, minorities such as of news; or sometimes even citizens, there is a motley crew Jews or Roma were sadly targeted generating their own content. of stakeholders, who with false accusations of witchcraft We’ve all seen successful YouTubers, or crime. Even today, the world is carving out a niche market and exploit disinformation as packed with hoaxes, false rumours, making money from their passion. a tool for manipulation of and half-truths. The problem is the other side of this Disinformation is as old as humans. vast universe - hidden within these public opinion.’ So why is it that disinformation and legitimate new sources of content It is not up to the European ‘fake news’ sound so worrisome and new income streams, there Commission to be a sort of pan- today? Hardly would anyone disagree is a motley crew of stakeholders, European Ministry of Truth. The that false information has negative who exploit disinformation as a definition of ‘truth’, in pluralistic effect on our open and free societies, tool for manipulation of public societies such as ours, is built through with their cornerstone of freedom of opinion. It happened during the open discussion and debate. But this expression and freedom of access to U.S. presidential elections in 2016, is precisely why we need to have information. Fake news leads to false and we have seen it in different EU a guarantee that citizens receive ideas, false realities and therefore to members: web sites creating fake quality content, helping them to take misguiding citizens and, ultimately, content as a way to gain influence or, informed decisions. undermining our democracies. in some cases, just to make money In his letter of intent of In the last decade, for many of us the from easy to click ads. 13th of September, President Juncker online platforms and the social media The result can be ominous: acknowledged this, when he said that it is necessary and urgent to develop a policy response to the problem of ‘fake news’. This is a complex challenge – not only because we will need to determine what we mean by disinformation online, but also because any policy response must preserve citizens’ freedoms, our open and democratic choices. The possible solutions must ©iStock respect freedom of expression and FMA BULLETIN - 61 15

media pluralism, while guaranteeing including traditional media, online access to reliable information, based platforms, civil society and citizens; The European Council in on professional, ethical journalism. so we are launching a consultation 2015 asked the EU High Representative, Federica ‘We need to have an open process to start a dialogue on a number of important issues, such as Mogherini, to submit an action conversation with the reporting and verification systems plan on strategic communication main online platforms of fake news, and the transparency to address Russia’s ongoing disinformation campaigns. in order to find solutions. of algorithms. We need to have an open conversation with the main As a result, the EEAS’s East Finding solutions will online platforms in order to find StratCom task force was set be good for them, solutions. Finding solutions will be up in September 2015. Since good for them, and will be good for then, the team has been working and will be good for all the Europeans. without its own budget, drawing all the Europeans.’ Of course, this alone is not enough. If on the existing EU strategic we are to try to solve this problem it communication budget and The Commission has already is equally important to pay attention staff from EU institutions and developed a strategy for limiting to the traditional media and to Member States. It relies heavily the spread online of illegal speech, the citizens’ media literacy. In the on volunteers to collect the hatred, violence, and terrorism. It has past, citizens consuming media disinformation stories (more than recently adopted new rules designed knew in many instances what the 2 500 examples in 18 languages to clarify take-down procedures agenda of that media was. Today, since 2015) it presents and and the responsibility of online with the proliferation of media explains in its weekly newsletters, platforms. We have developed a and information overload, such as part of its efforts. partnership to better protect minors knowledge is much harder to obtain. from illegal or harmful content, Different pilot actions, promoted source: 2017, EPRS, ‘Fake news’ involving industry, civil society and by the European Parliament, will and the EU’s response. the public sector. Through the East enable us to support media literacy Stratcom Task Force, we are also and quality journalism projects. A curbing false narratives systematically our solutions. number of initiatives are already promoted by one particular country, I believe that together we can offer in the pipeline to help balance with the goal to destabilise Eastern better solutions and diminish the the relationship between online European democracies. impact of fake news. Zero ‘fake platforms and the traditional press, I strongly believe it is possible to news’ may sound too challenging so that publishers can finance develop more comprehensive action, to achieve, but we have spent quality journalism. Such are the by combining all our efforts, and enough time hearing that this is a big copyright reform proposals, which problem, which cannot be solved, could strengthen publishers’ and therefore should not be even negotiating position vis-à-vis the addressed. We could at least try. internet platforms; the funding And let’s nor forget – real, verified of quality information on EU and objective news brings us at least affairs; and supporting projects three major achievements: richer that monitor risks, related to press debate, better informed citizens, and freedom and pluralism. ultimately – stronger democracies The fake news challenge will also with stronger citizens. require active collaboration from and between the Member States. We need to build on experiences at Mariya Gabriel national level to avoid fragmentation, European Commissioner for and this is why an action at EU level Digital Economy and Society Mariya Gabriel ©European Union 2017 can help improve the effectiveness of @GabrielMariya 16 FMA BULLETIN - 61

THE EP INSTITUTIONAL COMMUNICATION STRATEGY

At a time of optimism within must bear in mind that the political, should acknowledge itself as being the Eurozone, but rampant social and digital environment - fully embedded in these rapidly Euroscepticism within member states Europeans are faced with shifting parameters. In tackling the - encapsulated by the isolationism today has transformed. 2019 EP elections, we must therefore of Brexit - it may seem premature ‘More than ever, in a take into account the current to declare the European Parliament reality and not shy away from a ‘trendy’. But citizens’ interaction and context of crisis and courageous and innovative approach engagement with the Parliament is increased responsibility to our strategy. here to stay. for the European More than ever, in a context of crisis Thanks in part to the and increased responsibility for the ‘Spitzenkandidaten’ process, Parliament, it is crucial European Parliament, it is crucial media coverage was five times to build engagement, to build engagement, loyalty and higher for the 2014 parliamentary trust between Parliament’s media elections than in 2009. Yet, 2019 loyalty and trust between professionals and journalists. Striving is not 2014. Looking out upon a Parliament’s media for a common goal, we must inform blustery autumnal day in Brussels, professionals and people about Parliament’s activities the situation Jean-Claude Juncker in an impartial and objective way to described in his State of the Union journalists.’ combat misinformation. speech on September 13, seems International terrorism, increasingly While this applies to institutions reality: ‘We have now a window unpredictable relations between developing connections with of opportunity but it will not stay China, Russia and the United media outlets and journalists, open forever. Let us make the most States, the constant shadow it is fundamental for building of the momentum, catch the wind of the Brexit negotiations, the relationships with citizens. Despite in our sails.’ phenomenon of ‘fake news’ and 2014’s significant steps forward, In developing and implementing the influx of refugees barely figured difficulties remain in trying to reach the European Election strategy for in most Europeans’ minds when every single citizen. Whether the 2019, it is the task of the campaign they voted in 2014. intrinsic remoteness of the EU, to unfurl the proverbial sail and catch As a reflection of European society, the problems that citizens have that wind, however short-lived. We the European Parliament is - and in working out what happens in Brussels or the complexity of decision making, all complicate Parliament’s communication policy. For these reasons, it is vital for the European Parliament to keep in mind the significance of the European elections in their wider context: they are the full articulation of European democracy. They are the moment when voters can choose in what direction they want the EU to head in the next five years; each new political make-up of the European Parliament is a microcosm of European society and a reflection of the mood of the moment among Europe’s citizens. Ballot box © European Union 2014 It is a crossroads. Europe’s future FMA BULLETIN - 61 17

will be shaped by the results of the 2019 elections. Our duty is to increase awareness of the elections and their meaning and help people make informed choices. As a result, the campaign strategy will seek to reach as wide and diverse a public as possible. To ensure the greatest impact in terms of translating potential voters into actual voters, more specific choices regarding target audiences need to be made. The EE19 campaign must place particular emphasis on convincing those segments of society who look ©European Union 2017 favourably upon the EU, but do not turn up on voting day. would like the campaign to tell. the evolving social media landscape Opinion makers, youths (15-24) and Building a message and movement and develop new communication students are three key pro-European with a real mobilising force requires tools for the elections. One example target groups. Despite their pro- the audience to feel that they are is chat-bots, automated identities European statements, abstention part of a bigger picture. It should in messaging apps, which answer a rates among these demographics provide them with a sense of range of practical queries, like ‘where remain high. Therefore, they empowerment and control. From is my closest polling station?’ represent a logical target group the perspective of younger voters Overcoming technical difficulties for for the campaign. and opinion makers, the ‘Choose voters is key. But to unlock the full Identifying a potential group is only Your Future’ messaging strategy is power of EE19, we need a pro- part of the process. Motivating and forward-looking and plants the idea European campaign. The European mobilising the relevant people to that there is a prospect for change elections should not just bring voters vote is the intended result. A mixture should the appropriate action in to the polls, but convince them to of messaging and social media voting be taken. support the European project. strategy will prove most effective. ‘We need to adapt to the Beyond 2019, the battle will be The term ‘message’ pertains to the against those who want to annihilate overarching story or narrative that we evolving social media the European construction and landscape and develop return to a Europe where states new communication confronted each other and people suffered. This battle will take place tools for the elections.’ on many fronts, and its outcome Active engagement on social will shape our Europe in 30 years’ media will also help the European time. EE19 is our opportunity to Parliament access digital natives. drive that narrative. But momentum needs to result in people voting on the day. Facebook’s ‘I voted’ status update, Twitter’s Jaume Duch Guillot election banner and an election- Spokesman and Director General related Google doodle proved for Communication of the popular in 2014 and deserve to be European Parliament. Jaume Duch Guillot ©European Union repeated in 2019. @jduch 2016 Nonetheless, we need to adapt to 18 FMA BULLETIN - 61

YOUTH, POLITICS AND COMMUNICATION: A SHORT HOW-TO

Participating in democratic societies ahead of the next European don’t fully integrate civic education has always been important for Parliamentary elections we should into their curriculum, let alone teach young people: naturally, they have therefore not only address questions about how the EU functions. It is different policy priorities than other of European democracy but also thus no wonder that google trends age groups; their engagement also review how politicians communicate on “what is the EU” spiked on the promises a sustainable future for to and with young people. day after the British referendum3. democracy. With an aging society To start off, “youth” is not a ‘Politicians should in Europe it has become even more homogenous entity which is why crucial for young people to do so. more than one communication take users seriously. And yet, reality looks different: approach is needed: it consists If someone reacts or not even every third young person of different groups, some active responds, this should (18-24 years) voted during the last in political parties, others in non- be treated like a digital European Parliamentary election1. partisan youth NGOs like ours, The participation rate of young and some active in mono issue letter from a citizen, and people for the British referendum is movements such as LGBTQIA be listened to.’ slightly better with 64%, yet for such rights or the fight against climate In lack thereof, our members work a historical vote not as participative change. But what we share is in close cooperation with schools. as it should have been2. 18 months general millennial dimensions of The great interest our network communications, namely real life or experiences is a good indication 1. EP Thinktank (2015). Young people digitally. In real life, young people engaged but not voting. Retrieved Oc- that there is a demand for teaching can often be met in various youth tober 1, 2017 from https://epthinktank. this content and should be further organisations. This needs to be eu/2015/12/14/young-people-engaged- followed up by policy-makers on paired with societal long-term goals: but-not-voting/ different governmental levels. if young people don’t understand 2. Helm, Toby (2016). EU referendum: Social media has become an the political system, if they don’t youth turnout almost twice as high as everyday-life tool, especially for first thought. Guardian. know their rights and duties as young people. Like many elements Retrieved October 1, 2017 from https:// citizens, they won’t be interested in of our lives, political discussions have www.theguardian.com/politics/2016/ hearing about detailed political work. moved on there. The question of jul/09/young-people-referendum-turn- Worryingly, schools in Europe often out-brexit-twice-as-high how to reach youth should hence more be framed as how we connect public discourse on traditional media with the one on social media that currently seem to run in parallel? We would recommend politicians to become active on social media, too. The investment to find out what platform is most popular for young generations in certain regions and to post regular, meaningful updates is absolutely worthwhile. Three principles, however, are important

3. Rosalie Chan (2016). Brexit: U.K. googling what the EU is hours after voting to leave. Retrieved October 2, Antonio Tajani - EP President takes part in a Facebook live chat © European Union 2017 2017 from http://time.com/4381612/ uk-brexit-google-what-is-the-eu/ FMA BULLETIN - 61 19

to keep in mind: First, social media is social and has to be used accordingly. Politicians should take users seriously. If someone reacts or responds, this should be treated like a digital letter from a citizen, and be listened to. In fact, accounts that only post and don’t respond are rarely successful. Consequently, a politician’s social media strategy should include a component that frequently monitors the engagement and allows for reflection on the decision-maker’s own positions. Second, young people shouldn’t be underestimated. Sure, the end of roaming costs can be Live interview of Jean-Claude Juncker, President of the EC, for YouTube and Euronews celebrated but there’s more to us ©European Union 2017 than just our homo oeconomicus. We see how our generation has confirmation bias is dangerous for media education? difficulties finding employment or everyone, especially to teenagers, Some things have already improved: how people cross the Mediterranean as an awareness of the existence of Though twitter, whose main in the hope of a better home. These other opinions, the ability to think characteristic is formulating snazzy topics matter, too. But, thirdly, social critically as well as to debate with one-liners, has certainly facilitated media needs to be paired up with others - skills needed to maintain a the current wave of populism, real-life interaction, creating and democratic society - are weakened so-called twitter threads, i.e. an strengthening contacts. Politicians when no critical opinions are shown. argument written in multiple shouldn’t be afraid to ask these A Pew Research Center study tweets, have become popular when groups, e.g. the European Youth showed that 62% of US-American discussing politics. More steps in Forum, for help: they can also users receive their news from social this direction need to be taken, support by introducing new young media; another study concluded both by platforms and its users. people to your work. that 59% of 2.8 million shared When it comes to communicating Despite all the advantages of the articles happened without having politics, it is utmost time carefully to 4,5 digital revolution, there are pitfalls been read . This is why it’s crucial balance good communication with to it, too: for instance, twitter allows to rethink how we want society a reasoned, well-thought through everyone to report news. This tempts to work: How important is quality approach by politicians. some decision-makers to reply rapidly journalism and fact-checking to before knowing the full facts and it us? How can we stimulate critical facilitates the process of picturing a thinking and allow for better complex situation in black-and-white 4. Gottfried, J., Shearer, E. (2016). due to its character limit. Facts can News use across Social Media Platform easily be changed, lies are difficult 2016. Pew Research Center. Retrieved to detect and weaken the credibility September 30, 2017 from http://www. of other credible actors. Platforms journalism.org/2016/05/26/news-use- that depend heavily on algorithms across-social-media-platforms-2016/ are also the perfect soil to build echo 5. Maksym Gabielkov, Arthi Ramachan- chambers since they aim for the dran, Augustin Chaintreau, Arnaud user to spend more time online and Legout (2016). Social Clicks: What and Leonie Martin show less controversial posts that Who Gets Read on Twitter?. ACM Vice-President of JEF Europe might oppose the user’s views. This SIGMETRICS / IFIP Performance 2016, @leoniemartin90 Antibes Juan-les-Pins. [email protected] 20 FMA BULLETIN - 61

FMA ACTIVITIES

European Parliament Former Members Association Association des anciens députés au Parlement européen FMA BULLETIN - 61 21

FMA activities FMA STUDY VISIT TO USA

THE EU-US PARTNERSHIP WILL OUTLAST PRESIDENT TRUMP

The political atmosphere in pursuit of national interests. A Trump to recertify Iran’s compliance the United States has changed modern catch as catch can. His with the 2015 nuclear deal, we considerably since last year’s ‘America First’ vision constitutes a were impressed by the differences presidential election. total departure from decades of between the near unanimous views Since World War II the United States bipartisan foreign policy consensus in of his advisors and the natural has played a systemic role in the the United States. instinct of President Trump for radical multilateral institutions set up during Throughout our visit the defining action. For most of us this new that period. In the early fifties it issue was nationalism vs. political climate in a longstanding ally was a major advocate of the then internationalism. Our discussions at of Europe is very worrying indeed. European Coal and Steel Community, the State Department demonstrated The recent extraordinary statements as a forerunner of the EC, which its declining role: practically no by the much respected Senator later became the European Union. senior political officials have yet been Corker, chairman of the powerful Over the years the US and the EU confirmed by the Senate, the sixth Senate Foreign Relations Committee, have closely collaborated and created and seventh floor are nearly empty, on the instability of the President and the basis of global co-operation and its budget has been reduced by the resulting possible threats of a between and with countries of more than 10% (against an earlier new armed conflict are not new, but different size and culture. As a whole reduction foreseen for 30%!). At should add considerable concern in the world has benefitted greatly the same time we were comforted European circles. President Trump’s from the growth of multilateralism. by hearing from its permanent earlier welcome of Brexit, the United It has promoted a climate of more staff that the administration has Kingdom’s departure from the open governance, transparency and come to understand that a strong European Union, is in retrospect a accountability in the management of commitment to US-EU relations is an minor ripple compared to the gravity public affairs. Multilateral institutions essential component of defending of the current situation. have also contributed to tackling US interests, even though many The lessons for the European Union jointly world-wide issues, such trade issues are still outstanding. are clear. As Chancellor Merkel as climate change, immigration We received similar messages in has confirmed on many occasions flows or terrorism. other meetings. that the EU and its member states A week before our visit to At the same time our visit was a stark stand alone in facing the numerous Washington DC President Trump and troubling confirmation of the challenges within our countries and offered a radically different vision polarized situation in the country. in the world around us. If ever, the of a world order dominated by a In discussions about a potential famous words by Winston Churchill return to the concept of sovereignty nuclear conflict with North Korea apply to the current position of of individual states and the exclusive and the possible refusal by President Europe : ‘if we do not hang together we will hang separately’. President Trump’s actions contribute greatly to a more united Europe. The conclusion of our visit is clear: the United States remains an essential partner for the European Union. There is no doubt that our relations will outlast President Trump!

Laurens Jan Brinkhorst ELDR, Netherlands (1994 - 1999) Protester holds sign at Anti-Trump Love Rally Boston Common ©iStock [email protected] 22 FMA BULLETIN - 61

DIVISIONS IN AMERICAN SOCIETY

When President Trump took office on you would think that the election influence politicians. And California’s 20 January 2017, the US economy campaign was still in full swing. more stringent emissions standards was actually doing pretty well; since Our discussion partners, including have no chance of being adopted by the credit and financial crisis, the Ambassador David O’Sullivan - any other states. unemployment rate had dropped to who some of us know from his People turn a deaf ear to scientists 5% and the GDP growth rate had time in Brussels - confirmed that who try to explain the relationship climbed back to 2.4% (compared American society is becoming between climate change and to 1.9% in the EU). increasingly polarised, as did former hurricanes and tsunamis. But the lengthy and aggressive Congressman Brian Baird, with As might be expected, EU, election campaign exposed both old whom I discussed the topic at length. and particularly Germany, and new economic, political, ethnic, We also spoke to some important migration policy was often religious and regional divisions. figures at Georgetown University cited in the heated debates on For those of us who see the USA - a and Johns Hopkins University. Trump’s immigration restrictions. vast community of different ethnic Remember, there are no state-funded As Germans, people asked us about groups and States united under one party foundations in the USA; it the recent election result, and it was legal system and language - as a role is therefore left to independent impossible to ignore the element model for the European Union, the institutes with no party affiliations to of gloating at the way the influx of deep disagreements which emerged provide a running commentary on refugees had turned people against during the Obamacare Debate political affairs. Merkel’s coalition. (TV) on the future of the common The lecture at Johns Hopkins The future of immigration to the USA healthcare system are shocking. University on energy costs, which was also discussed, in particular for The Republicans, in thrall to the have plummeted thanks to non-whites and Muslims; the fear of Calvinist concept of individual fracking (as the extreme levels of taking in even more people who are responsibility, reject the idea of air conditioning in every building ‘different’ is all too evident. solidarity which underpins the reminded us), ended in a frustrated The election results in November welfare state. account of the lack of interest in showed strong support for the They are against all forms of climate change and its effects shown Republicans in the eastern USA redistribution of wealth; the by US politicians. and for the Democrats in the west better-off, who have worked hard Concerns about the significant and south of the country, with the to get where they are, should effects of emissions are being exception of California and Florida. not have to support those in taken seriously in California, but The President, who is constantly need, the unemployed. nowhere else. rallying his fans, and the gun lobby The pension system and tax But here as well there is a rift in against critics of the right to carry reform proposals reflect this society between the eco-conscious a gun, is merely polarising opinion philosophy as well. and those who want - at the expense even more and deepening the With political tensions this high, of future generations - to exploit rifts in society. as many free resources (air, water, It is as if the centrifugal forces land, etc.) as possible and to - pulling towards the centre whom the concept of precautions - are losing strength and the to deal with later repercussions centripetal forces are tearing the means nothing. ‘United’ States apart. There is no suggestion of setting up a body, similar to the one here in Ursula Braun-Moser Germany, whose task it is to highlight Germany the impact of environmental damage EPP (1984 - 1989) on public health, in an effort to EPP-ED (1990 - 1994) ©iStock [email protected] FMA BULLETIN - 61 23

IRAN-NORTH KOREA

The Trump Administration faces 98% of its nuclear fuel stockpile; twin, interrelated challenges from limited the amount of nuclear North Korea’s existing nuclear fuel it can produce until 2031; weapons program and Iran’s and provided the most intrusive potential one. President Trump’s inspection regime by International recent decision to ‘decertify’ the Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) ever 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of used -which has repeatedly found Action (JCPOA) between Iran and that Iran has complied with the terms the permanent members of the of the JCPOA-. UN Security Council, plus Germany For sure, the JCPOA has limitations. (P-5+1), can complicate resolution of The restrictions have a sunset clause both challenges. Indeed, he asserted and will expire in 2025/2030; access Stuart E. Eizenstat ©McLarty that there are ‘many people who to military facilities is not permitted; believe that Iran is dealing with and it does not cover Iran’s missile already a confrontation with North North Korea‘, for which there is no program, let alone its support for Korea. Nor did he assert the JCPOA concrete evidence. terrorism and other destabilizing was contrary to America’s national In his October 13, 2017 actions in the region. But the nuclear interest, which would have limited announcement, repeating his agreement was never intended to his room for flexibility, but took the campaign statements, he called cover all Iranian behavior, and other narrower ground under the 2015 the JCPOA ‘one of the worst and US sanctions cover these. Once Iran Nuclear Agreement Review most one-sided transactions the the time limits expire, Iran remains Act that he could not certify that United States has ever entered into’. under an obligation in the Non- the suspension of sanctions under This is despite the fact the JCPOA Proliferation Treaty not to develop the JCPOA was ‘appropriate and reduced the number of centrifuges a nuclear weapons. proportionate’ to measures Iran has enriching uranium by two-thirds; Taking the advice of his national taken ‘to terminate its illicit nuclear totally dismantled its heavy security team, the President did program’. He then tossed the issue water facility at Arak producing not immediately walk away from to the Congress, which can impose plutonium; forced Iran to relinquish the agreement at a time there is nuclear-related sanctions under expedited procedures for up to 60 days. However, the President will not ask Congress to impose those sanctions, but will ask Congress to place additional sanctions outside the JCPOA to target Iran’s ballistic missile program and its support for terrorism, and will work with our allies ‘to counter Iran’s destabilizing activity’ in the region. At the same time, he announced he would work with Congress and our allies to address the flaws in the agreement, like the sunset clauses. He will ask Congress to write into law certain Rex Tillerson, US Secretary of State, on the left, Federica Mogherini, High Representative of thresholds for Iranian behavior, which the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy / Vice-President of the Commission; 2nd on if violated, would lead automatically the right, and Mohammad Javad Zarif, Iranian Foreign Minister, on the right, during a EU3/ to renewed sanctions against Iran. E3+3 and Iran Ministerial Meeting on JCPOA. ©European Union , 2017 -continued ballistic missile launches 24 FMA BULLETIN - 61

Trump stated that absent such we have with Iran under the JCPOA, an agreement the JCPOA ‘will be it would be a minor miracle. terminated.’ Then, it would be At this point, they should the U.S., not Iran, who will have immediately appoint a high-level terminated a multilateral treaty, and envoy to work with the EU and the U.S. will be isolated. If he re- attempt to negotiate a supplement imposes secondary sanctions against agreement on the deficiencies under European companies and those from the JCPOA, and Iran’s other activities, other countries doing business with but should not tank the JCPOA Iran, he will ignite a trade war that in the process. will undercut the cooperation he needs to address the deficiencies in Stuart E. Eizenstat was Chief White the JCPOA; Iran only came to the House Domestic Policy Adviser ©iStock negotiating table for the JCPOA to President Carter (1977-1981), because of united, strong sanctions and held a number of Senate- by Iran; a refusal to extend the action by the U.S. and EU. confirmed positions in the Clinton duration of the constraints on The President tried to justify his Administration, including U.S. its nuclear fuel production; or decertification by stating that North Ambassador to the European Union, a conclusion by US intelligence Korea was an example that ‘the Under Secretary of Commerce, agencies that Iran could produce a longer we ignore a threat, the worse Under Secretary of State, and Deputy nuclear weapon in less than a year. that threat becomes.’ But there is Secretary of the Treasury. (1993- While far short of terminating the a very different lesson North Korea 2001). His new book, “President agreement immediately, the President will take from this initial action by Carter: The White House Years” will has nevertheless put the U.S. in a the President to walk away from be published in the spring of 2018. box. Neither Iran nor any of the other the agreement: why negotiate P5+1 countries will agree to reopen an agreement with the U.S. to the hard-fought, long -negotiated foreswear its nuclear program, when JCPOA. While Secretary of State the U.S. can unilaterally terminate Stuart E. Eizenstat Tillerson has stated that Iran’s other its obligations? If we could achieve a Former United States Ambassador threatening activities could be nuclear agreement with North Korea to the European Union negotiated in a separate agreement that was anything like the tough one (1993-1996) outside the JCPOA, Iran would have little incentive to do so, without receiving substantially greater sanctions relief from the U.S., which the Administration will certainly not provide. By January 12, 2018, the President must decide whether to grant the regular six-month waiver of nuclear sanctions under the JCPOA, which was the basis for Iran to agree to major limits on its nuclear program. If this happens, the JCPOA is dead, and Iran would then be freed of its constraints on its nuclear program. But he can hardly do so, absent the kinds of actions by Iran it Federica Mogherini, speaks following a EU3/E3+3 and Iran Ministerial Meeting on JCPOA unfortunately will not take. President meeting at the . ©European Union , 2017 FMA BULLETIN - 61 25

TRUMP AND THE MIDDLE EAST

President Trump’s speech to the The area of most concern is the UN in September shows life will be President’s approach to Iran. Iran different - but how different?. This has supplied up to 100,000 missiles dilemma is particularly reflected in US to Hezbollah aimed at . Iran policy towards the Middle East. supports terrorist groups. Iran There is one certainty. There will be intervened in in support of no progress on the ‘road map’ on Assad, and is in the process of the solution of Israel’s boundaries. constructing a military facility in This was underlined by the vigorous Syria. Concern by the USA on this FMA President Enrique Barón Crespo applause given to President Trump deserves support. Consequently a with the President of the U.S. Association of Former Members of Congress, Cliff at the UN by Mr Netanyahu. Trump tough approach to Iran would not Stearns, during the welcome reception at is not the only cause of the stalling be a surprise. K&L Gates premises on the road map but he will put less The President does not do this. He pressure on Israel than in the past. approaches this issue by attacking US would be punishing Iran for its However other areas of Middle the Joint Comprehensive Plan of good rather than its bad behaviour. East policy remain less clear. In Action (JPOCOA) with Iran on The United Kingdom, France and April the US Navy destroyers in the nuclear weapons which he has Germany have made it quite clear Mediterranean fired 59 Tomahawk described as ‘one if the worst and that they would not support the cruise missiles at the Shayrat airfield most one-sided transactions the USA and would not pull out of the in the Western Homs Province of United States has ever entered’. agreement. There is no indication Syrian in retaliation for the Assad Since 2012 Iran’s stockpile of that US departure from the JPOCOA government’s use of chemical enriched uranium has reduced from would have any impact on the real weapons in an attack in Khan 8000kg to 300kg. The heavy water issues that are of concern in Syria. Sheikhoun. This might have indicated reactor at Arak, making plutonium, The USA has a proud record for to EU and others that Trump was has been totally dismantled. Iran’s good in the world. The USA could going to be tough on the Assad facilities are inspected by the be immensely beneficial in the regime. However there is confusion International Atomic Energy Agency Middle East for example over the particularly surrounding Trump’s (IAEA) 24 hours a day. dispute in the Gulf States over handling of Putin’s role in Syria. Will On 8 occasions the IAEA has certified Qatar or in encouraging to there be a more direct involvement Iranian compliance with its terms. be a full democracy. However at by the USA in countries like Syria and There is no evidence of a change present the Trump administration and even a new cooperative since the last certification. has yet to show that it will live up to US /Russian initiative in Syria? In other words any action by the the US record. The American constitutional system of checks in balances could come into play with Congress forcing the President in a rational direction. Also much depends on the extent which the President listens to the sensible members of his administration (the ‘adults’). Hopefully the USA will get on track. Robert Moreland Enrique Barón Crespo addressing a question during the Panel on The Trump ED, United Kingdom (1979 - 1984) Administration’s Foreign Policy at the FMC annual events ©FMC [email protected] 26 FMA BULLETIN - 61

HOW CAN WE COMBAT TERRORISM?

Our meeting with General Gray • Attempts by states to destabilise at the Potomac Institute was one another. The Potomac Institute particularly interesting in that it Although they are not powerless, our for Policy Studies is an gave us an insight into the findings democracies have weaknesses that independent, not-for-profit of studies carried out in the can be exploited by terrorists: public policy research institute. USA and worldwide. • Cooperation between all The Institute identifies and What struck me in particular was the intelligence services urgently needs aggressively shepherds discussion way those findings highlighted the to be made more effective, both on key science and technology root causes of terrorism, information at domestic level and between EU issues facing our society. From which can help us to devise better Member States and further afield. these discussions and forums, ways of fighting this global scourge. In New York, closer cooperation they develop meaningful science Terrorism is nothing new and it between local law-enforcement and technology policy options affects all five continents. services led to a rapid fall in crime and ensure their implementation The most obvious current example rates. In France, President Macron at the intersection of business is Daesh, which is stepping recently set up a task force to and government. up its attacks every month coordinate the work of the country’s across the Middle East, Europe, multiple intelligence services. Africa and America. At European level, information The main factors that exchange must be improved using all enable terrorism to develop the modern techniques available. and thrive include: • At operational level, networking • The material and social poverty between all police and military endured by so many of our fellow forces is essential. citizens. Millions of these people • In neighbourhoods seen as live on the edges of our society: problematical, the EU, its Member Jean-Marie Beaupuy with Prof. Yonah they have no skills, they do not States and local and regional Alexander, Director of the Potomac belong and they have no personal or authorities must develop schemes Institute for Policy studies professional prospects. to combat poverty and integrate • The vulnerable mental state of everyone, particularly by means of indisputably aiding terrorists. The role many individuals, who see terrorism language and general education. they play must be addressed. as an outlet for their abnormal urges. • Social media and networks are • Collective action is needed in many other areas, such as cutting off sources of funding for terrorists and engaging in ‘targeted’ diplomacy. The European Union was built to defend peace and foster its citizens’ well-being. It urgently needs to make rapid progress in the fight against terrorism, and it is high time, therefore, that the Member States and their political leaders established proper intelligence and law-enforcement networks. Jean-Marie Beaupuy A moment of the introductory speech of Alfred Gray, Lieutenant General, at the Potomac ALDE, France (2004 - 2009) Institute for Policy studies [email protected] FMA BULLETIN - 61 27

ENERGY AND CLIMATE CHANGE

Prospects for Climate Action in the has been a 25% reduction in US influence either nationally or United States proved a valuable and emissions since 2005, mostly in locally. Supply and or distribution interesting discussion during the FMA the last five years and mainly in the decisions may be influenced by local visit to Washington in October 2017. switch from coal to gas. Renewable geographical factors. The USA has never been the most energy sources and improvements in Transport infrastructure is a key enthusiastic supporter of policies to the efficiency of energy use have also driver of economic growth and the tackle climate change. True, President played a part. current Chinese rail project now Clinton did sign the Kyoto Protocol It has been reported that since 2009 heading west towards Europe will but it was never put to a vote in the renewable energy costs have fallen not be the last such project. During Senate. President George W Bush, by 66% in the case of wind and the visit to Washington Alstom having defeated Vice President Gore by 85% in the case of solar. These and Siemens announced ambitious a leading campaigner for climate cost reductions, as well as some tax plans to create an advanced rail change policies, withdrew from the incentives are encouraging activity at network throughout Germany and protocol despite much criticism. State and local level. Little mention France. Similar projects are certain President Obama, in contrast, was was made of the role of nuclear to arise elsewhere. a strong supporter of the Paris energy though it provides some Nuclear power in the USA did not Agreement and because it was 10% of electricity but its future feature much in the discussion but not a treaty, was able to ratify it by contribution is somewhat uncertain. a recent staff paper to the Secretary executive order without a Senate While it is easy to report on the for Energy listed a number of factors vote. President Trump has attracted past, it is hugely difficult to assess that favour an increase rather than much criticism in signalling his the future. Electric power is now a decrease in its contribution. These intention to withdraw from that unquestionably seen as the main were: the reduction in greenhouse Agreement. He has also indicated source of energy. The production gases, resilience in the grid (baseload support for what remains of the US and the transmission methods will issues), national security with diversity coal industry having had the backing depend on science and technology of fuels, jobs and the contribution to of the mining community in his developments and the extent to the tax base. election campaign. which these can be economically I recall from my early days as a Despite this wavering support used. Government decisions to member of the European Parliament’s for climate change policies, there apply taxes or subsidies will have energy committee that there was a greater support for nuclear power than now and also a struggle to convince the Commission to increase research and development funding for renewable energies. Today, many millions of people in the world do not have a secure electricity supply (including one third of the population of India) and the world’s population continues to grow.

Gordon Adam PES, United Kingdom (1979 - 2004) Climate Change and American flag. Influence of USA on global climate. ©iStock [email protected] 28 FMA BULLETIN - 61

HURRICANES AND THE PARIS CLIMATE AGREEMENT

During our visit to Washington, the stated: ‘Climate change does very mitigation (to reduce emissions), humanitarian emergency in Puerto likely increase the associated rainfall transparency, global reviews, Rico, caused by the passage of and the strength of hurricanes and adaptation and support, with Hurricane Maria, continued. Huge cyclones which have always been a special focus on the loss and damage had been caused, leading there. The relationship between damage associated with the to death and destruction, with climate change and the frequency of adverse effects of climate change, blocked roads, collapsed bridges and hurricanes is not clear.’ involving all stakeholders at a population with no water, food Undoubtedly, the increase in sea the sub-national level. or electricity. levels due to global warming In June 2017 President Trump Recently, hurricanes Harvey, Irma makes flooding more likely in declared that the US would and Maria, which formed over coastal areas along hurricane paths. be withdrawing from the Paris the Atlantic Ocean, have hit the Coordinated development policy Agreement, on the grounds that coasts of the United States, while and environmental strategies need it was causing huge damage to Hurricane Ophelia caused casualties, to be implemented, by facilitating the economy, with losses of jobs catastrophic devastation and violent exchanges of experience and and competitiveness; he also put fires in , Spain, Ireland and information, reducing pollution a stop to further funding for the the United Kingdom. and greenhouse gas emissions Environmental Protection Agency. Today, thanks to satellite observation and promoting the proper use of In the debate at the John Hopkins, and sophisticated technical energy resources and new lifestyles, lawyer Benjamin Longstreth instruments, we are able to have a while bearing in mind the island explained that since 2005, significant better knowledge of the structure states which could disappear below progress in reducing emissions had and development of hurricanes and the sea, as highlighted in 1999 been made at the federal level, to determine, with greater accuracy, in the Persad-Bissesar report on owing to investments in renewable the relationship between these ‘Climate change and small island energy and energy efficiency and, events and ‘climate change’, though states in the context of the ACP-EU given that President Obama’s ‘Clean experts have conflicting views. cooperation framework’. Power Plan’ had not been ambitious Some say it is difficult to establish In 2016, the Paris Agreement, signed enough, Congress had had to adopt whether hurricanes in recent years by 195 countries, entered into a range of renewable tax incentives. have been stronger than those in force. It is the first-ever universal, Individual US states nevertheless previous years, while others say that, legally binding deal which sets out manage, independently, to promote since the 1970s, rising temperatures a global action plan with a view to ambitious measures locally. Atlanta, have led to an increase in the avoiding dangerous climate change for instance, aims to attain a frequency and intensity of tropical by limiting global warming to well renewable energy level of 100%. In cyclones. However, the UN World below 2°C. Governments have spite of President Trump’s decision, Meteorological Organization has agreed on action plans based on there is great bipartisan support for clean energy and renewables. Since the 1970s, much has been done worldwide, but we must continue making a strong global commitment in order to avoid painful consequences.

Monica Baldi EPP-ED, Italy (1994 - 1999) FMA Delegation with Ambassador David O’Sullivan, at the EU Delegation to the United [email protected] States FMA BULLETIN - 61 29

IMPRESSIONS OF AMERICA

When the stars - and schedules Pierre Charles L’Enfant (who served stance adopted by the United States - are in alignment, symbolic General George Washington and are pushing Europe to become an coincidences can arise. then worked as the architect of active world power, a guarantor Before going to Washington, the Federal City) and the American of universal values, democracy I attended the Deauville liberators of Europe, I was and peace. American Festival. overwhelmed by a feeling of pride in The consensus among the people Philippe Augier, the prestigious our shared history. we spoke to is that there are deep resort’s dynamic mayor, put it this France’s election of the youngest divisions in American society. way: ‘Since it was founded in 1860, president in the history of the Fifth Some spoke with resignation and Deauville has established close Republic, who defied expectations concern, some with real anger relations with the American people. and traditional divisions and and others - the hard-core Trump Normandy is eternally grateful to the speaks frankly on the world stage, supporters among the white middle- Americans and we will never forget is something Americans can class - with satisfaction. Trump the role they played in our history.’ relate to. Paradoxically, with its cultivates this lack of consensus, For 43 years, the American Film unexpected outcome, the French taking a stand against free trade and Festival has been a major cultural and election mirrored Donald Trump’s immigration and backing the right to political event which brings together rise to power. From an American bear arms. professionals from the standpoint, Emmanuel Macron’s The Republicans revere the Second United States, France and Europe. speeches in and at the UN Amendment of the Constitution as ‘With each edition, the festival has revealed the dynamic role which an almost ‘sacred’ text. continued to evolve and explore all France, and by extension Europe, Europe has not been immune aspects of American cinema. It is a want to play in international affairs. to divisions and populism. While real forum for artistic and business Against the background of the traditional political parties have exchanges, and offers an insight into diplomatic chaos generated by the lost ground, nationalist voters have US culture and the evolution of US Trump Administration and the lack become radicalised. society’, he went on. of consistency and cool-headedness We discussed these topics openly Cinema is an effective form in the President’s political thinking, with our American partners. There of ‘soft diplomacy’. which he all too often communicates are many issues of international Before even setting foot in by means of a series of tweets, concern - North Korea, Iran, Syria, Washington, I already felt ‘American’. Europe has no choice but to the Paris Agreement - and they had taught me everything I take the lead. cannot be handled by means of needed to know about US society The EU continues to move forward improvisation and guesswork. - its values, its violence, its hopes in the face of what are often Sabotaging existing agreements is and its fears. unforeseen challenges; Brexit, simply reckless. In Washington, thinking of Lafayette, Catalonia and the ‘America first’ Our counterparts trust in American democracy to channel this dangerous upsurge in populism. The onus is on Europe to present a more united, active front, to defend treaties and agreements. Just one man’s impressions of Trump’s America ...

Jean-Paul Benoit Family picture of the FMA Delegation with Antoine Ripoll, Director of the EP Liaison Office PES, France (1989 - 1994) with US Congress [email protected] 30 FMA BULLETIN - 61

AMERICAN INSTITUTES FOR SUPPORT TO DEMOCRACY

During the Study Visit to Washington from the FMA delegation under President Barón Crespo we had an interesting lunch with two institutes. The two institutes were the National Democratic Institute (NDI) and the International Republican Institute (IRI). The Delegation spoke together with them both in one room. This is now rather rare in Washington. The relations between Republicans and Democrats are tense and bipartism A moment of the meeting with NDI and IRI is exceptional. Both organizations work in many countries. Matters Adenauer foundation. The difference institutions and practices. The of foreign affairs are even in is that the German foundations have NDI works to strengthen political Washington controversial. many activities in Germany itself. and civic organizations, promote We were received by the president The two institutes are focussing on citizens participation. of the National Democratic Institute the outside world exclusively. Both The IRI has an objective: to foster Kenneth Wollack, as well as by institutes receive substantial support the infrastructure of democracy; Stephen Nix, the director of the from taxpayer. Further income is the system of free press, unions, Eurasia Division and Jan Surotchak, generated by gifts. political parties, universities, which the director of the European In Europe the two institutes work allows to people to choose their own Division of the International in the eastern and western Balkan way to develop their own culture Republican Institute. and in Hungary, Slovakia and Poland to reconcile their own differences Both institutes were founded and as well as the Caucasus through peaceful means. around 30 years ago in the ninety region and Turkey. These are the official mandates. eighties. The big impetus was the The Mission from the NDI is The lunch was too short to find collapse of the Soviet Empire. The a non-profit, non-partisan, out which activities the Institutes founders of the institutes based nongovernmental organisation, instigate. It would be very important themselves on the model of the which supports democratic to find out more about the results German foundations like the Konrad of the activities. Those activities cover most of the eastern part of the EU. I would be very interested in experiences from our FMA members with either of the two institutes. A conclusion can be that America has not forgotten our old continent. Congress is still willing to spend a lot of money for aid to European countries.

Bartho Pronk EPP-ED, Netherlands (1989 - 2004) A moment of the meeting with NDI and IRI [email protected] FMA BULLETIN - 61 31

MEETING WITH FORMER MEPS

Earlier this month, I attended on the merits of Brexit, even after a presentation by members of many other Americans blasted their the European Parliament FMA opinions all over Facebook. After at Georgetown University. There hearing the former MEPs from the were Former MEPs from the Czech UK speak, I can fully grasp what a Republic, France, Germany, Italy, tragic event this could be for Britain. The Netherlands, Spain and the I have high hopes for the future of UK. I am just beginning my studies the EU, and for Britain’s sake I hope Some members of the Delegation at at Georgetown in German and they have a part in it. One way Georgetown University European Studies, and this discussion the EU can help ensure success is was one of the most enlightening by becoming more salient among one British former MEP mentioned extra-curricular events I have been to citizens of the member states. It that only the elites truly understand during my time here. As a student seems that Brexit happened in part the goals and structures of the EU, of Europe, I have been following the due to an electorate uninformed and in my eyes that needs to change. elections in Germany, the referendum about the numerous benefits of Brexit poses potential issues for the in Catalonia, and Brexit from afar, but being an EU member, and it is easy transatlantic relationship. The US has to be able to listen to former MEP’s to see why. The EU has a serious always had cultural and historical from Germany and Britain discuss PR problem and needs to work on ties with Britain, and has counted what is going on in their home state developing a ‘face’ to portray on on them as a gateway into the EU. and in the EU was very academically a local level, to encourage more I see this as an opportunity for the stimulating. In the United States, we people to vote for Parliament and US to strengthen our relationships hear of constant discord between to understand what it means to with other member states. Here in member states, and it was refreshing be a part of the EU. As the only the US, we have a new president to note that such discord does not democratically elected body of the who seems unable to reach a firm necessarily extend outside of Brussels European Union, for parliament to opinion on the European Union. But and that, in the end, all former have only 42% percent voter turnout I am not worried about President MEPs want to promote a strong points to a democratic crisis. Citizens Trump. The transatlantic partnership and stable Europe. are unaware what parliament does, has proven itself time and time again Not being European, I have never and do not feel the need to make through numerous hardships, and felt qualified to give an opinion their voices heard. At Georgetown, we are determined to continue such relations despite potential setbacks. As Western nations, we have many of the same goals: international security, helping those in need, and keeping our planet healthy just to name a few. As a future leader, I am confident that our partnership will continue to strengthen if we focus on the big picture, and on what we can do together to accomplish our common goals.

Maddie Mitchell Student at Georgetown University, Washington D.C. Lunch Roundtable Event with professors and students at Georgetown University [email protected] 32 FMA BULLETIN - 61

FP-AP meetings in Malta FORMER MEMBERS NETWORK FP-AP MEETING IN VALLETTA

Valletta, the capital of the FP-AP President Lino DeBono lives. parliamentary republic of Malta in He and his team, led by Dr Noel the Mediterranean, is the smallest Buttigieg Scicluna and Pauline Abela capital city in the EU by area, and (Malta), were ably assisted by Krist by its population of only 5 700 Decanniere, Lisette Hermans and out of the country’s total of some Roland Roblain from the Brussels 430 0001. Malta has the fifth-highest FP-AP Secretariat. (and still rising) population density of In Marsa we visited the Turkish any country in the world. cemetery, which is regarded as Family picture of the FP-AP meeting in Malta has an ancient culture and another architectural treasure. Malta ©FP-AP history. During the Late Neolithic, The ‘Great Siege of Malta’ by an Minister of the Interior and National six large temples were constructed Ottoman army took place in 1565. Security, during the FP-AP seminar on Gozo, the archipelago’s second- The Order of St John of Malta, on the wide-ranging topic of largest island, and 22 on Malta defending the island, succeeded ‘Statelessness’ - an attempt to bring itself, by a people who reached the in defeating the besiegers. The clarity to the subject of refugees, with islands between around 6000 and late-16th century fortifications made all its many facets and problems, and 2 4000 BC . The archaeological Malta the most strongly fortified address the extraordinary challenges museums provide eloquent testimony island in the Mediterranean and are it poses for the EU as a whole. to this, particularly with their valuable today among the most impressive Two impressive speakers for the prehistoric (female) statuettes. It is fortifications in the world. United Nations High Commissioner no wonder that three sites in Malta That is the good side. However, for Human Rights – Inge have been declared Unesco World Malta also has big problems. During Sturkenboom (Brussels) and Sharzad Heritage Sites, and that Valletta, its chequered history it was coveted Tajbakhsh (Geneva) – also made alongside Leeuwarden (Netherlands) by many warlike powers from all reference to the UNHCR manual will be the EU Capital of Culture corners of the earth owing to its ‘Nationality and Statelessness’ for 2018, and is preparing itself for special strategic position in the parliamentarians, and to the ‘Global this major event, as witness the Mediterranean. Today it is the brutal Action Plan to End Statelessness construction works at the entrance to murder of the journalist Daphne (2014 – 2024)’ – vital reading matter the city with its defensive town wall. Caruana Galizia, which Andrea for everyone. More archaeological finds were made Manzella is particularly highlighting, We also had extensive and lively during this work. According to The as well as such matters as the discussion on the first proposal by Times of Malta, the EU is subsidising debates on the infamous Panama the former Secretary-General of this rebuilding project alone to the or Paradise Papers, or the ways of the Council of Europe, Dr Walter tune of EUR 24 million. obtaining a Maltese passport, which Schwimmer, on ‘The Future of We – Andrea Manzella, Valeh could irreversibly change the life and Europe’, the topic of the 2018 FP-AP Nasiri and myself, plus former atmosphere of this special island. Colloquy in Strasbourg. parliamentarians from 19 Member One treasure of the present day, Malta has now created an States of the Council of Europe – though, is the modern Parliament international platform for discussion admired the bustling tourist city of building designed in 2011-2015 by and has called for joint action to Valletta and the many European the Italian architect Renzo Piano. combat the deadly threats with singers visiting for the major choir Here we had a question and which the world is faced. festival. We visited the Mdina, answer session with Claudette the silent medieval citadel, and Buttigieg, Speaker of the House of made a trip to Gozo, where the Representatives, and later with Dr Brigitte Langenhagen Tonio Borg, the former European EPP-ED, Germany (1990 - 2004) 1. Wikipedia Commissioner, and Michael Farrugia, brigitte-langenhagen-cux@t- 2. Wikipedia online.de FMA BULLETIN - 61 33

FP-AP STATEMENT ADOPTED IN VALLETTA

On the same day as the funerals in Malta of the journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia, murdered for exercising her freedom of press and thought, the FP-AP Bureau adopted the following Declaration on the initiative of the FMA Delegation:

STATEMENT BY THE EUROPEAN ASSOCIATION OF FORMER MEMBERS OF PARLIAMENT OF THE MEMBER STATES OF THE COUNCIL OF EUROPE (FP-AP)

FP-AP BUREAU MEETING IN VALLETTA 3 NOVEMBER 2017

We, Former Parliamentarians of the Member States of the Council of Europe and of the European Parliament meeting in Malta to discuss together about the Future of Europe, -- EXPRESS our profound sorrow and great indignation with regard to the criminal act which cut short the life of Maltese journalist Daphne Caruana Galizia; -- CONDEMN the foul crime which has greatly moved all the people of Europe: not only because it extinguished a young life, but also because – in a Member State of the EU and of the Council of Europe – such an atrocious infringement of the rights of a free press and freedom of thought, enshrined in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU and the European Convention on Human Rights, could have been committed, in the form of terrorism; -- CONDEMN all kind of terrorist acts and killings in the Member States of the Council of Europe; -- SUPPORT the urgent call by the European Parliament with a view to ensuring that the government and all the authorities of the Republic of Malta make every effort to back the international investigation and bring the perpetrators and sponsors of this assassination to justice, in order to remove the dishonourable shadows that surround this brutal killing; -- TAKE NOTE of the commitment undertaken by the Prime Minister of Malta to stop at nothing to get to the truth behind this atrocious murder and the involvement of Europol, the FBI and other foreign forensic experts to provide technical expertise and assistance to the Malta Police Force in their investigations into the assassination of Daphne Caruana Galizia; -- EXPRESS their condolences to the family of the victim and gather together in silence in memory of Daphne Caruana Galizia and her courageous life.

EP Plenary session, October 2017. Minute of Silence in Memory of Daphne CARUANA GALIZIA - Maltese Journalist ©European Union 2017 34 FMA BULLETIN - 61

VISIT UNDER EU PRESIDENCY VISIT TO ESTONIA

Besides Estonia’s defence end of the First World War and the Marianne Mikko is a member of priorities, the country’s collapse of the Russian empire. the Estonia Parliament, she heads leading defence MP Marianne In 1920 a peace treaty was signed the Estonian delegation to the Mikko is determined to with Russia, in 1939 the Parliamentary Assembly of the promote its cultural heritage compelled Estonia to accept Soviet Council of Europe, and is a former and digital expertise. military bases, and in 1940 Soviet Socialist MEP. Estonia is the most northerly if the troops marched in 1940 into Estonia As an experienced journalist, a three Baltic states, the country shares which was incorporated into the member of the Women for Defence a border with Russia, and it has Soviet Union. group in Estonia, and having served linguistic ties with Finland. And since German troops invaded Estonia in as an MEP on the Culture and Media independence in 1991 membership 1941 and the country was annexed committee of the parliament, she is of the EU has been one of the main again in 1944 by the Soviet extremely important i Estonian and objectives of Estonian foreign policy. Union when tens of thousands of European defence politics. The country has a history of being Estonians were deported to Siberia Marianne Mikko said it is important occupied so many times during and Central China. for Europe to take its own defence its history including by both Nazi Since the collapse of the Soviet and security needs seriously and for Germany and the Soviet Union Union, the country has become both NATO and non NATO countries in recent times and is extremely one of the most economically within the EU to work together for sensitive to being a small and successful of the EU’s newer their common defence. fairly remote country on the edge eastern member states. A fascinating aspect of Estonia’s of the EU. The recent former EU Moscow envoy history and culture especially music And sharing a border with Russia Vygaudas Usackas has said that he is its tradition of choral singing with and the annexation of The does not think Russia under Putin will the amazing success of the ‘Singing Crimea by Russia has not lessoned change its attitude to the Baltic states Revolution’ in helping to achieve the country’s anxiety. but that he ‘believes in dialogue and independence from the mighty The country was ruled at various it is important not to label Russia and Soviet Union by the use of its voice times during the middle ages by its people as a terrorist state’. and choral singing . , the German knights of The leading Estonian defence MP, The country has long experience of the Livonian Order, and , Marianne Mikko, also shares the mobilising the creative talents and and ended up as part of the Russian view that despite the potential threat collective voices of its people and Empire in the 18the century. to her country from Russia under perhaps more than any other country It experienced its first period of Putin, dialogue is important however in the world the history of Estonia is a independence in 1918, following the sensitive or difficult. story set to a song. And besides its concentration on defence and security Estonia is a world leader in digital technology and this small Baltic county of 1.3 million people it is determined to enhance further the profile of its digital voice during its current EU presidency.

Michael McGowan PES, United Kingdom FMA Delegation in Tallinn with Marianne Mikko, member of the Riigikogu in the National (1984 - 1999) Defence and European Union Affairs Committee [email protected] FMA BULLETIN - 61 35

TOWARDS E-EUROPE?

Estonia has chosen an original are only two exceptions, ministers initiative to focus on during its EU joked: marriages and divorces. Presidency: it will be promoting what Prescriptions no longer need to be its government calls ‘digital Europe’, written out and kept; information pushing for the more widespread on the treatments prescribed to use of electronic communication patients is stored online and can technologies in administration and be accessed by any pharmacy. commerce. The aim is to facilitate Individual medical records are stored access to all types of data for in electronic folders and can be everyone, to reduce the time taken consulted by medical professionals to perform transactions of all kinds in any hospital. Elections are heading Online Security Technology background ©European Union and to make all administrative the same way; Estonians now exchanges completely transparent. have the option of voting at home In presenting the initiative to from their computers. Setting up a its 27 partners, Estonia coined business also takes just few clicks: the slogan ‘More transparency, the administrative process can be less bureaucracy’. It called on completed in a few minutes, without the European Union to take the even leaving the house. immediate step of declaring ‘the free The Estonians recounted these movement of data’ a fifth freedom. achievements with great enthusiasm. The country’s dream is for our union They offered reassuring responses of nations to become a world leader to the concerns we raised regarding in internet use. the reliability and confidentiality FMA delegation during the guided In a bid to win over the other of such a broad-based system: we walking tour in Tallinn Old Town governments, Tallinn decided to lead were assured that every precaution by example. The government proudly had been taken to prevent data digitalisation of public activities has announced that 95% of Estonians from being hacked and to deter met resistance and problems have now use an electronic identity cybercriminals. We were not in any arisen. At the last general election, card. These cards enable people position to dispute these claims. more than 70% of voters preferred to carry out every administrative Not all Member States share the to cast their ballot in the traditional at task imaginable using just their Estonian Government’s enthusiasm, a polling station, rather than voting computer or mobile phone. There however. Even in Estonia itself, the electronically. What is more, the official information on the procedure for voting was, oddly, provided first in Estonian, then in English: no thought had been given to the Russian speakers who make up over 30% of the population. Digitalisation may not solve political problems, but it can make them worse.

Michel Pinton NI, France(1993 - 1994) FMA Delegation in front of the Tallinn Song Festival Grounds. [email protected] 36 FMA BULLETIN - 61

PHOTO REPORT

The FMA annual events took place on 29 and 30 December 2017. During the cocktail, we counted with the presence of Ms. Mairead McGuinness, First Vice-President of the EP. The guest Speaker of the dinner was Mr. Mirek Topolánek, Former President of the Council of the EU (2009) and former Prime Minister of the Czech Republic (2006-2009). From left to right: Enrique Barón Crespo, President of the FMA; Mairead McGuinness, First His speech was entitled ‘The former Vice-President of the EP and Mirek Topolánek, Former President of the Council of the EU Communist states of Eastern Europe (2009) and former Prime Minister of the Czech Republic (2006-2009) during the Annual are they meeting the challenges of Cocktail ©European Union 2017 our continent’. On the 30th December, the Annual Seminar took place. This year it was focalised on ‘EU Global strategy on Security and Defence’. Former and currents MEPs, as well as students from different Belgian Universities attended the event. The video is now availble on the FMA website: www. formermembers.eu

A moment of the FMA Annual Dinner ©European Union 2017

A moment of the FMA Annual Seminar “EU Global strategy on Security and Defence” ©European Union 2017

The Former EP Presidents, Nicole Fontaine From left to right: Michael Gahler MEP; Elisabetta Fonck; Enrique Barón Crespo, Sir Julian and Pat Cox during the FMA Annual Dinner King and Ivailo Kalfin during the FMA Annual Seminar ©European Union 2017 ©European Union 2017 FMA BULLETIN - 61 37

LATEST NEWS

ACTIVITIES 31 2 May 2018 2 May 2018 2 May 2018

EPRS INFORMATION SEMINAR ANNUAL SERVICE FMA COCKTAIL AND DINNER From 3.45 p.m. to 5.15 p.m. Current and former MEPs will DEBATE European Parliament, Brussels. commemorate their colleagues From 6.30 p.m. in Members’ who passed away in 2017-2018. Restaurant, European Parliament, From 5.45 p.m. to 6.15 p.m. Brussels. European Parliament, Brussels.

3 May 2018 4-5 June 2018

FMA GENERAL ASSEMBLY VISIT TO AND ANNUAL LUNCH Details will be communicated At 10.00 a.m. followed by the at a larger stage. Annual Luch at 1.00 p.m.

SPONSORS

The FMA would like to thank for its generous contribution CANDRIAM

and KBC

For sponsoring the “EP to Campus” Programme.

IN MEMORIAM † 12 October 2017 Horst POSDORF EPP-ED (1979-1993)

He served as a German member of the European Parliament from 2005 to 2009. During his time in Parliament, Mr Posdorf was a member of the Group of the European People’s Party (Christian Democrats). At the national level she represented the party ‘Christlich Demokratische Union Deutschlands’. 38 FMA BULLETIN - 61

NEW MEMBERS

Cachia Therese Comodini was a Member of the European Parliament from 2014 to 2017. Through her time in the European Parliament she served in the committee on Legal Affairs, the Delegation for relations with Palestine and the Delegation to the Parliamentary Assembly of the Union for the Mediterranean.

Cachia Therese COMODINI (Malta, 2014- 2017, EPP)

Guido Viceconte was a Member of the European Parliament from 1994 to 2001. During his time in the Parliament he served in the committees on the Environment, Public Health and Consumer Protection, Social Affairs and Employment, Regional Policy, Transport and Tourism and Legal Affairs and the Internal Market, delegation for relations with the countries of Central America and Mexico and the Delegation for relations with Estonia, Guido and Latvia. VICECONTE (Italy, 1994-2001, EF&EPP)

Glenis Willmott was a Member of the European Parliament from 2006 to 2017. Through her time at the Parliament, she served as a Vice-chair of the delegation for relations with Canada and as a member of the committee on the Internal Market and Consumer Protection, committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety, Delegation to the ACP-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly, delegation for relations with the countries of south-east Europe, Glenis Delegation to the EU- Joint Parliamentary Committee and Delegation for relations with WILLMOTT, Australia and New Zealand. (United Kingdom, 2006-2017, S&D)

Fabio De Masi was a Member of the European Parliament from 2014 to 2017. Through his time at the Parliament, he served as a Vice-chair of the committee of Inquiry to investigate alleged contraventions and maladministration in the application of Union law in relation to money laundering, tax avoidance and tax evasion and as a member of the committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs, special Committee on Tax Rulings and Other Measures Similar Fabio DE MASI, in Nature or Effect and the Delegation for relations with . (Germany, 2014- 2017, GUE/NGL)