Decision of the European Ombudsman on the implementation of Article 17 TFEU
4.2.2013
Question for written answer E-001160-13
to the Commission
Rule 117
Sophia in 't Veld (ALDE) , Joanna Senyszyn (S&D) , Jean-Marie Cavada (PPE) , Franziska Katharina Brantner (Verts/ALE) , Michael Cashman (S&D)
On 18 October 2011, Complaint 2097/2011/RA against the Commission was submitted to the European Ombudsman, concerning the Commission’s dialogue with churches, religious associations or communities, and philosophical and non-confessional organisations. On 25 January 2012, the Ombudsman closed his inquiry with two remarks:
- 1.‘By rejecting the complainant’s proposal for a dialogue seminar, on the grounds that this would go beyond the spirit of Article 17(1) and (2) TFEU, the Commission failed properly to implement Article 17 (3) TFEU, according to which the EU is obliged to “maintain an open, transparent and regular dialogue” with churches, religious associations or communities, philosophical and non-confessional organisations. This constitutes an instance of maladministration.’
- 2.‘Taking into account the Ombudsman’s findings, the Commission should (i) clarify its practices and rules in this area, and, if necessary (ii) draw up guidelines indicating how exactly it plans to implement Article 17 TFEU.’
In light of this decision, can the Commission explain how it views the remarks of the European Ombudsman in the abovementioned case?
Has the Commission already decided how it will follow up the decision?
Will the Commission put forward proposals, to be submitted to Parliament, for a reform of Article 17 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on dialogue, with a view to broadening it to cover all religious views and life stances in Europe, and converting such dialogue into a broad public debate on shared values in the EU?
OJ C 361 E, 11/12/2013