Better access to environmental justice

3.4.2017

Question for written answer E-002452-17
to the Commission
Rule 130
Jean-François Jalkh (ENF)

Some fifteen environmental and climate NGOs, including ‘ClientEarth’, have urged Brussels in writing to grant Union citizens the right to judicial review of European decisions with regard to the environment.

They accuse the Union of not complying with the Aarhus Convention that guarantees access to information, public participation in decision-making and access to justice in environmental matters for all citizens, as far as European institutions, agencies or bodies are concerned. The Aarhus Convention, as implemented by the Union, does not allow for legal action against decisions ‘of a general nature’, hence the difficulty to challenge initiatives that could impact a large number of organisations or companies.

Besides its request to modify the rule, the letter refers to the growing disinterest among citizens with regard to the Union and its values, and the legitimacy crisis that the latter is experiencing.

Having taken note of this letter, does the Commission intend to reinforce its democratic legitimacy and bridge the gap that separates the Union from its citizens?