News

Whatever happened to a European nature conservation plan for the future?

14 November 2017

It is a matter of utmost urgency that the European Commission draw up a future plan for the conservation of nature. In this regard it remains unclear as to how Europe hopes to achieve the 2020 goals, let alone how it will go about planning for the years to follow. “I expect a clear commitment from …

Read more

Europe is looking to boost confidence in online shops

14 November 2017

The European Parliament is looking to boost confidence across national borders when it comes to online shopping. More and better cooperation between the member states is a first step towards achieving this. Combating fraud has also been laid down in clear rules and measures in this regard. “Now we …

Read more

Tax haven treaties: time for a new procedure

14 November 2017

Minister of Finance Johan Van Overtveldt is taking a fresh look at quite a number of tax haven treaties. Under previous governments, these were cranked out in assembly line fashion. By the end of the year he intends to have a clear overview of these files. “I have not waited for the Panama …

Read more

Fight against terrorism remains number one Defence priority

10 November 2017

In 2018, the focus of the Ministry of Defence will be on core military tasks. Other tasks will be put on the back burner as far as possible. The goal is to make our military personnel deployable more quickly and effectively. The army is also proving itself to be a reliable partner within NATO, the …

Read more

Battle against secondment fraud gains extra weapon

10 November 2017

Anyone employed temporarily in a different EU country is obliged to submit a so-called A1 document in that other country. This document proves that he or she has paid social security contributions in the country of origin. The document is in principle strictly binding for the host country; however, …

Read more

Centres against Sexual Violence put the victim first

9 November 2017

On Thursday, three brand-new Centres against Sexual Violence opened their doors for the first time in Ghent, Brussels and Liège. The centres bring together all possible means of assistance at one address. A network of medical, psychological and judicial specialists is on hand there, ready to help …

Read more