News

Renewable energy: EU sets bar too high

22 June 2016

While all member states agree that 27 percent of our energy must be renewable by 2030, the European Parliament has created unease by setting the bar much higher. “Our families and enterprises need stability. We cannot simply strike down another path every year,” European Parliament member Anneleen …

Belgium also supports EU directive against tax evasion

20 June 2016

Belgium also approves of the recently proposed European directive against tax avoidance practices (Anti Tax Avoidance Directive, ATAD). “This new directive provides a perfect balance between aiming for a fair tax system and boosting economic growth,” Minister of Finance Johan Van Overtveldt says …

LGBTI rights: EU should show more ambition

16 June 2016

The European Council of Ministers of Social Policy has adopted a Council conclusion on LGBTI issues for the first time. “That in itself is a historic event. And even though it just concerns a limited number of actions, it means significant progress for the EU,” Secretary of State for Equal …

Tobin tax: debt must not go up

16 June 2016

Minister of Finance Johan Van Overtveldt defends the introduction of a Tobin tax on the European level. “Just like Premier Michel, I am also a proponent of such a tax on financial transactions”, he clarifies. “The only condition set by this government is that a Tobin tax must not have a negative …

European waste policy to become more sustainable

15 June 2016

European Parliament has discussed new proposals for the revision of European waste policy. It demonstrates a clear intention to target sustainability and to put an end to the disposables model. “It seems my colleagues finally recognise the need for a recycling economy,” European Parliament member …

Serious obstacles for Brussels as a Smart City

14 June 2016

A Smart City improves the quality of life and provides information from the government and citizens via new digital applications. These usually revolve around themes such as smart energy, buildings, mobility, living and working environment, plus a functioning digital infrastructure and …

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