Debates

Wednesday, 23 November 2022 - Strasbourg

Legal protection for rainbow families exercising free movement, in particular the Baby Sara case (debate)

  Sophia in ‘t Veld (Renew). – Mr President, Madam Commissioner, I don’t think that we are here today to try and convince you of the rights of LGBTI people and rainbow families, because we know that you are convinced. However, we are talking here about applying the law. And I have to say, I find that the Commission is too timid in enforcing case—law. The von der Leyen Commission generally, but certainly in these kinds of cases, puts the burden of litigating on the shoulders of individuals and civil society.

There are two rulings by the European Court of Justice, the baby Sara case and the Coman case. The Coman case is four and a half years old. I mean, you say the Commission is monitoring, the Commission may start infringement proceedings if necessary, but how much longer will the Commission wait? Because, you know, there isn’t limitless time. Baby Sara is growing up. Will she be 18 before this is settled? Will she have voting rights by then?

So I really, really urge the European Commission to start an infringement proceeding and impose sanctions on those countries and make sure that citizens can count on the Commission.