This year, writers from The New Federalist had the opportunity to participate in JEF Political Commission sessions and engage in key discussions. Together with Talisa Mazzoni, one of our resident columnists, I attended the Political Commission 2 meetings, which focused on the theme of domestic European affairs.
Led by Co-Chairs Sorcha Ní Congaile And Lobular fissurePC2 devoted its efforts to reviewing the resolution on the subject „Accelerate the transition to a circular economy”, making extensive revisions to ensure its suitability and functionality. First introduced during the London Federal Committee in 2019, the resolution was reaffirmed at the Congress of Liège in 2021. Its main objective is to affirm our political, ethical and legal commitments to climate and environmental sustainability.
Throughout the debates, the importance of carbon neutrality was evident, emphasizing the key role of the circular economy both domestically and globally in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Through this political commission, JEF Europe's partner Generation Climate Europe is in contact and with the help of EurHope's Hope Agenda, there are many insightful points about the transition to a circular economy and the importance of this action in our lives. .
This version of PC2 encounters brought a significant number of changes. First, the updated figures include an overview of relevant directives and support for the transition to a circular economy, not only for candidate countries but also for EU member states. As climate policy is affected by contemporary issues in today's political landscape, PC2 has chosen to address a concern expressed by JEF Europe: the EU's failure to transition away from non-renewable energy sources following a cutoff from energy imports from Russia. In addition, these meetings addressed issues related to a shift in mindset and a shift away from current incentive practices where transitioning to a circular economy is currently profitable. PC2 advocates for EU-wide tax reform that promotes reuse, recycling, regeneration and the use of secondary raw materials. Also, there have been discussions on fair transition measures, inclusion of vulnerable groups and support for small businesses. Finally, the proposal to establish A Digital product passport Approved, it aims to provide environmental footprint information for products. The initiative facilitates seamless cross-border trade of sustainable and pollution-free secondary products.
This edition of Political Commission 2 meetings was fruitful. Also, JEF opened up the platform to various members of the community to learn about the resolution, suggest amendments and discuss their ideas in different sessions held online. At the Federal Committee of JEF Europe in Tartu, Estonia, resolution (Available here) passed unanimously.
If you have any questions, see this link to learn more about JEF Europe's policies and political commissions: https://jef.eu/jef-europe-policies/#political-commissions