Rådsmøde nr. 3447 (udenrigsanliggender) den 15. februar 2016

Europaudvalget 2015-16
Rådsmøde 3447 - udenrigsanl.
Offentligt

Council of the

European Union

6122/16

(OR. en)

PRESSE 6

PR CO 6

OUTCOME OF THE COUNCIL MEETING

3447th Council meeting

Foreign Affairs

Brussels, 15 February 2016

President

Federica Mogherini

High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security

Policy

PRESS

Rue de la Loi 175 B – 1048 BRUSSELS Tel.: +32 (0)2 281 9773 / 6319 Fax: +32 (0)2 281 8026

[email protected] http://www.consilium.europa.eu/press

6122/16

Rådsmøde nr. 3447 (udenrigsanliggender) den 15. februar 2016 - Bilag 1336848:

15 February 2016

CONTENTS

ITEMS DEBATED

Climate diplomacy ............................................................................................................................... 3

Moldova ............................................................................................................................................... 8

Syria ................................................................................................................................................... 10

Belarus ............................................................................................................................................... 11

On the margins of the Council: .......................................................................................................... 14

–

EU-Kyrgyz Republic Cooperation Council ........................................................................................................... 14

OTHER ITEMS APPROVED

FOREIGN AFFAIRS

–

EU priorities at UN Human Rights Fora in 2016 .................................................................................................. 15

Burundi .................................................................................................................................................................. 19

Somalia .................................................................................................................................................................. 21

Zimbabwe - sanctions ............................................................................................................................................ 25

Special representative for human rights - financial reference amount ................................................................... 25

COMMON FOREIGN AND SECURITY POLICY

–

EU border assistance mission in Libya - mandate extension ................................................................................. 25

Exercises and exercise-related activities under the CFSP 2016-2020 ................................................................... 25



Where declarations, conclusions or resolutions have been formally adopted by the Council, this is indicated

in the heading for the item concerned and the text is placed between quotation marks.

 

Documents for which references are given in the text are available on the Council's Internet site

(http://www.consilium.europa.eu).

 

Acts adopted with statements for the Council minutes which may be released to the public are indicated by

an asterisk; these statements are available on the Council's Internet site or may be obtained from the Press

Office.

6122/16

Rådsmøde nr. 3447 (udenrigsanliggender) den 15. februar 2016 - Bilag 1336848:

15 February 2016

ITEMS DEBATED

Climate diplomacy

The Council approved the following conclusions:

"1.

Recalling its conclusions of July 2015 which invited the High Representative and the

Commission to report back in early 2016 on the outcome of the COP21 and its implications

for climate diplomacy, the Council adopted the following conclusions.

The Council welcomes the Paris Climate Agreement as a landmark achievement for

combating climate change, and for multilateralism. The Paris Agreement represents an

ambitious, balanced, equitable and legally binding agreement. The adoption of the agreement

and the cumulative announcement by the end of COP21 of Intended Nationally Determined

Contributions (INDCs) by 187 Parties marked a decisive turning point towards

comprehensive and collective global action, and, when implemented, will definitively and

irreversibly accelerate the transition to a climate resilient, climate neutral global economy.

The Council congratulates the Parties to the Convention, the United Nations and the Peruvian

and French COP Presidencies for their tireless effort and successful work leading to the

achievement of the Paris Agreement and expresses its support to the upcoming Moroccan

COP22 Presidency.

Ahead of and during COP21, the EU and its Member States, building on the strong track

record of domestic climate action, engaged, together with many other partners, in a broad

"High Ambition Coalition" across different regional groupings of developed and developing

countries. This coalition played a critical role in shifting negotiations dynamics at a decisive

stage of COP21 and could serve as an approach for building a coalition that would support the

timely signature, swift ratification as well as the full implementation by all Parties of the Paris

Agreement. Furthermore, EU diplomacy should engage Parties from third countries to

encourage updating of their INDCs in order to raise ambitions towards the fulfilment of

agreed goals.

Maintaining the positive momentum from Paris will require sustained political and diplomatic

mobilisation at global level. In order to support international climate objectives, the Council

welcomes the elements for climate diplomacy action in 2016 as provided by the External

Action Service and the Commission services, in the annex, with a view to the development of

an elaborated climate diplomacy action plan for 2016, with key messages, focused around

three main strands:

Maintaining climate change advocacy as a strategic priority in diplomatic dialogues, public

diplomacy and external policy instruments;

Supporting implementation of the Paris Agreement and the intended nationally determined

contributions (INDC), in the context of low-emission and climate-resilient development;

Increasing efforts to address the nexus of climate change, natural resources, including

water, prosperity, stability and migration.

–

6122/16

Rådsmøde nr. 3447 (udenrigsanliggender) den 15. februar 2016 - Bilag 1336848:

15 February 2016

Climate change, ambitious and urgent climate action, and the implementation of COP21

commitments must remain particular climate diplomacy priorities for the EU, including in

high level bilateral and bi-regional dialogues with partner countries, the G7, the G20, at the

UN and in other international fora.

The Council underlines that diplomatic outreach should also focus on the negotiations in the

International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and the International Maritime

Organisation (IMO) to address greenhouse gas emissions, as well as the Montreal Protocol

negotiations on the hydrofluorocarbons (HFC) amendment.

The Council recognises the priority to be placed on securing ambitious global implementation

of INDCs. In the context of climate diplomacy, the EU and Member States' development

cooperation with third countries should fully take into account the existing synergies between

climate objectives and the sustainable development goals as adopted by the 2030 Agenda for

Sustainable Development and other international agendas. The role of climate diplomacy is

also to advocate for public and private financial flows consistent with the pathway towards

low greenhouse gas emissions and climate resilient development as referred to in the Paris

Agreement, including by widening the range of contributors.

The Council underlines that the EU and its Member States are providing financial resources to

assist developing countries with respect to both adaptation and mitigation, in continuation of

their existing commitments. The Council highlights significant contributions in terms of

climate finance from a variety of sources, including through the Green Climate Fund. The role

of climate diplomacy is also to encourage and support initiatives such as those by the G7 on

climate risk insurance and on renewable energies in Africa, the New York Declaration on

Forests, ongoing work in the G20 on green finance and climate finance, and other means of

implementation, giving particular attention to the needs of those particularly vulnerable to

climate change.

The Council underlines the need for the EU and its Member States to keep working to address

the direct and indirect international security impacts of climate change. For example, as part

of the EU Global Strategy, the EU should therefore work at addressing the strategic and

multifaceted threat posed by climate change. The potentially destabilising effects of climate

change (including on migration, food security, reliable access to resources, water and energy,

spread of epidemic disease, and social and economic instability) should be addressed by the

EU, its Member States and partner countries, including through climate risk assessments and

support to capacity building. In this context, the EU looks forward to the UN Security Council

continuing its work on Climate Change.

10.

6122/16

Rådsmøde nr. 3447 (udenrigsanliggender) den 15. februar 2016 - Bilag 1336848:

15 February 2016

11.

The Council recognises climate change as a contributing factor to migration resulting from

state fragility, insecurity and resource scarcity. By further

analysing climate vulnerability

links with fragility and security risk, the EU will be in a better position to identify areas where

combined risks are particularly high and where there are critical opportunities for conflict

prevention and resilience, including in the context of a wider migration challenge.

One of the

key aspects of the EU climate diplomacy should be practical support for mitigation and

adaptation policies in third countries through the implementation and update of INDCs and

comprehensive long-term low emission development strategies aiming at global peaking of

greenhouse gas emissions as soon as possible and increasing climate resilience, while taking

into account third countries' priorities and circumstances.

The EU will continue to advocate for the promotion and protection of human rights also in the

context of climate change and climate diplomacy. In this regard, the Council also recognises

the importance of ensuring women's full, equal and effective participation and equal

opportunities for leadership at all levels of decision-making. Evidence shows that gender

equality, women's empowerment and women's full and equal participation and leadership in

economy are vital to achieve sustainable development, including climate change adaptation

and mitigation.

The Council invites the High Representative, the Commission and the Member States, in line

with their respective roles and competences, to continue coordinating and working closely

together in implementing EU climate diplomacy through joint and mutually reinforcing

initiatives, including pre-2020 mobilisation and post-2020 regime implementation, and

overall concerted mobilisation of external action.

The Council invites the High Representative and the Commission to work with the Member

States to develop an elaborated climate diplomacy action plan for 2016, based on the elements

for climate diplomacy action, and to report back by summer 2016 on progress to date and

upcoming challenges.

***

ANNEX

Elements for climate diplomacy action in 2016

Action under strand one: Continue to advocate climate change as a strategic priority in

diplomatic dialogues, public diplomacy and external policy instruments.

–

The EU and MS will use forthcoming bilateral meetings and multilateral fora, including

the G7, the G20 and the UN, to make the case for continued momentum on climate action,

and work with partners to create the conditions for positive action and prevent any

backsliding.

12.

13.

14.

6122/16

Rådsmøde nr. 3447 (udenrigsanliggender) den 15. februar 2016 - Bilag 1336848:

15 February 2016

–

The EU and MS will fully integrate into their collective climate diplomacy priorities the

objective of reaching an international agreement on a Global Market Based Mechanism to

govern future greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions for international aviation at the ICAO

Assembly in September 2016, give climate diplomacy support on negotiations of the

International Maritime Organisation (IMO) with the objective of approving a global

system of collection of data on fuel consumption and associated GHG emissions from

international shipping in April 2016, and reach an agreement on the HFCs amendment

under the Montreal Protocol

Conduct collective high-level outreach via EU Delegations and Member State Embassies

at appropriate intervals. These should focus on key decision makers and agents of change,

including not only host Governments but also parliamentarians, non-government

organisations, green industries and wider civil society. Such outreach should be linked to

the policy dialogue with developing countries supported by the Global Climate Change

Alliance + flagship.

Build on the successful experiences in 2015 to enhance collective public diplomacy in host

countries. For example, EU Delegations and MS embassies should collaboratively organise

an enhanced "Climate Diplomacy Action Day" in 2016, and targeted outreach could be

timed to coincide with the planned UN signature ceremony of the Paris agreement on 22

April 2016, and the Olympic Games.

–

Actions under strand two: Support implementation of the Paris Agreement, in the context of

low-emission and climate resilient development.

–

The EU and MS should work with partners to develop a full understanding of the content

of INDCs, support partners in developing implementation plans, and make links to

appropriate financial and technical support, in particular that provided mainly to Least

Developed Countries and Small Island Developing States by the Global Climate Change

Alliance + flagship. EU diplomatic services should be mobilised to encourage timely

ratification.

The EU and MS will further mainstream climate diplomacy through the concerted

mobilization of their instruments of external action (including cooperation for

development, neighbourhood and enlargement policies, civil protection and humanitarian

policy, trade, etc.) to support ambitious climate action and strengthen resilience including

through capacity building. This will include enhancing strategic collaboration with non-

state actors in the context of the Lima-Paris Action Agenda.

The EU and MS will continue to work together in exploring innovative mechanisms for

mobilising additional climate finance from private investors. (For example the "Nordic

finance initiative" launched by the countries of the Nordic Council at COP21.)

COP22 in Marrakesh will be crucial for establishing practical details for implementing the

Paris Agreement. An EU démarche in the run up to COP22 could explain EU views and

seek support from partner countries on specific issues for Marrakesh.

–

6122/16

Rådsmøde nr. 3447 (udenrigsanliggender) den 15. februar 2016 - Bilag 1336848:

15 February 2016

Actions under strand three: Increase efforts to address the nexus between climate, natural

resources, prosperity and stability.

–

EU and MS will enhance their involvement in the climate and security policy debate at

international fora, including the UN Security Council (encouraging the update of the 2009

paper by the SG), the Planetary Security Conference organised by the Netherlands, and

other relevant conferences/initiatives organised by MS.

The EU and those MS who are part of the G7 will continue engagement via the G7 on

climate and fragility, acting on the findings of the G7 report on this subject.

EU and MS will continue and enhance the inclusion of climate vulnerability analysis into

fragility/security and disasters risk assessments and collaborate on the resulting risk-

mitigation efforts, via all appropriate external policy instruments and in collaboration with

established networks.

The EU will continue its work under the joint EU-UNEP initiative and project on climate

and security which specifically address the destabilizing effects of climate change in

fragile states.

The EU and Member States are encouraged to explore the possibility of developing a list

of actions on climate & security."

–

6122/16

Rådsmøde nr. 3447 (udenrigsanliggender) den 15. februar 2016 - Bilag 1336848:

15 February 2016

Moldova

The Council approved the following conclusions:

"1.

The Council reaffirms its commitment to strengthening the political association and economic

integration between the European Union and the Republic of Moldova. It also confirms that

all Member States have ratified the Association Agreement.

The Council closely follows the situation in the Republic of Moldova. The European Union is

convinced that the current difficulties can be solved only via constructive dialogue among all

political forces in the country, which takes into account the expectations of the people of the

Republic of Moldova. Tangible results on reforms are needed to restore the trust.

To this end, the Council calls for an accelerated implementation of the Association Agenda.

The European Union remains committed to supporting the reform efforts in order to bring

about the benefits of the Association Agreement, including the Deep and Comprehensive Free

Trade Area, to the citizens of the Republic of Moldova.

The Government of the Republic of Moldova should prioritise reforms aimed at addressing

the politicisation of state institutions, systemic corruption, public administration reform aimed

inter alia at enhancing the effectiveness of regulatory bodies, transparency and accountability

in the management of public finances as well as with regard to policy making.

The Council calls on the authorities of the Republic of Moldova to strengthen corporate

governance in the financial sector, as well as the independence and the supervisory powers of

the National Bank and of the National Commission for Financial Markets. It stresses in

particular the need to appoint the Governor of the National Bank on the basis of a non-

politicised, transparent and credible process.

The Council calls on the authorities of the Republic of Moldova to ensure that the cases of

fraud that affected its banking system in 2014 are made subject to a thorough, impartial

investigation, also with a view to recovering the diverted funds and to bringing those

responsible to justice. It urges the authorities to undertake audits of the three banks under

special supervision through high quality reports and appropriate follow-up action, in close

collaboration with the IMF as well as consider a screening of the systemic risks in the banking

sector. All appropriate legislative measures should be adopted, including alignment of the

legal framework to counter money-laundering with the EU legislation, in order to mitigate the

risk of further bank frauds.

6122/16

Rådsmøde nr. 3447 (udenrigsanliggender) den 15. februar 2016 - Bilag 1336848:

15 February 2016

The Council is concerned about the lack of independence of the judiciary and law

enforcement agencies. It underlines the importance of implementing reforms which ensure the

independence, effectiveness, transparency and accountability of the judiciary and of the anti-

corruption institutions. The reform of the prosecution service as well as the fight against

corruption within the judiciary should be addressed as priority matters, including through

merit-based and transparent recruitment and promotion of judges.

The Council urges the Government of the Republic of Moldova to take steps to create a level-

playing field for business and restore an attractive and stable investment climate, and to

improve transparency and investment conditions in the energy sector. It further highlights the

importance of following the obligations under the Association Agreement and the Energy

Community Treaty, to adopt the relevant draft laws currently under consideration, and ensure

implementation.

The Council reiterates the EU's readiness to assist the Republic of Moldova including through

technical assistance and project support, such as peer-review missions and high level advisers.

The resumption of budget support disbursements could be envisaged once political, financial

and macro-economic conditions are fulfilled, including respect for budgetary oversight and

transparency principles. The Council calls on the Government to inter alia establish a detailed

roadmap towards an IMF programme, which is an important element in ensuring that

macroeconomic concerns are addressed. The Council welcomes the invitation by the

Government of the Republic of Moldova to the IMF to send a mission as soon as possible, so

as to rapidly commit to establishing a comprehensive programme of stabilisation and

structural reforms.

Effective, strategic communication, including in cooperation with civil society and

independent media, on the reforms achieved and to be undertaken in the framework of the

Association Agreement including its Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area, is of key

importance to raise awareness among the citizens of the Republic of Moldova about benefits

expected from political association and economic integration with the European Union.

The European Union welcomes the recent discussions on constitutional reform in the

Republic of Moldova with a view to preventing future political deadlock. The European

Union also calls on the authorities of the Republic of Moldova to address all OSCE/ODIHR

recommendations, especially as regards the transparency of party financing and the

accountability of elected candidates.

The Council recalls that the freedom of the media is an equally fundamental element of

democratic life. It urges the Government of the Republic of Moldova to improve the national

legislation in order to limit the concentration of media ownership and guarantee pluralism.

The Council welcomes the Republic of Moldova’s commitment to handle the Transnistrian

settlement process as a key priority, as well as the interest to resume the negotiations as soon

as possible, including in the 5+2 format. The Council also welcomes the establishment of a

permanent working group for cooperation between the Parliament of the Republic of Moldova

and the Gagauz People's Assembly."

10.

11.

12.

13.

6122/16

Rådsmøde nr. 3447 (udenrigsanliggender) den 15. februar 2016 - Bilag 1336848:

15 February 2016

Syria

The Council discussed the political, security and humanitarian situation in Syria. Ministers were

briefed on the outcome of the Syria donors’ conference held in London on 4 February 2016, and of

the International Syria Support Group (ISSG) meeting in Munich on 11 February 2016.

The Council discussed how the EU can best facilitate implementation of UN Security Council

resolution 2254 and support UN-led confidence-building measures and the respect of ceasefires,

while ensuring full and safe access for humanitarian aid to all people in need, through delivery of

assistance in an impartial and principled manner.

Ministers emphasised their full support for United Nations Security Council resolution 2254, calling

for its full implementation by all parties, and discussed how the EU can best facilitate its

implementation. They condemned the targeting of civilians and stressed the importance of UN-led

confidence-building measures, including humanitarian access and respect for ceasefires.

Resolution 2254 was adopted unanimously by the UN Security Council on 18 December 2015,

following the third meeting of the ISSG. It endorses a 'roadmap' for a peace process in Syria and

sets a timetable for talks.

In Munich, ISSG members unanimously committed to immediately facilitating the full

implementation of the resolution. They also agreed to set up an ISSG humanitarian task force to

ensure humanitarian access, and an ISSG task force to draw up, within one week, arrangements for

a nationwide cessation of hostilities.

6122/16

Rådsmøde nr. 3447 (udenrigsanliggender) den 15. februar 2016 - Bilag 1336848:

15 February 2016

Belarus

The Council approved the following conclusions:

"1.

Recalling the Council conclusions of 31 January 2011, 20 June 2011, 23 March 2012 and 15

October 2012, the Council highlights the importance it attaches to relations with the Republic

of Belarus and its people.

At the same time, the Council remains concerned with the situation of human rights in

Belarus and recalls that EU-Belarus relations should be based on common values, especially

respect for human rights, democracy and the rule of law.

The Council acknowledges the steps taken by Belarus over the last two years that have

contributed to improving EU-Belarus relations, such as the proactive participation of Belarus

in the Eastern Partnership and in the Interim Phase on Modernisation Issues, the resumption

of the EU-Belarus Human Rights Dialogue, the start of negotiations on Visa Facilitation and

Readmission Agreements and on a Mobility Partnership, the active pursuit cooperation in

harmonisation of digital markets and the signature of a Cooperation Arrangement on an Early

Warning Mechanism in the energy sector. The Council also values Belarus' constructive role

in the region.

The release of all the remaining political prisoners on 22 August 2015 was a long sought step

that the EU had consistently called for. In response to the releases and the presidential

elections of 11 October 2015 that were held in an environment free from violence, and taking

into consideration the overall state of EU-Belarus relations, the Council agreed in October

2015 on a four-month suspension of most of the restrictive measures.

The Council recognises that there is an opportunity for EU-Belarus relations to develop on a

more positive agenda and that progress in a variety of fields can better be achieved through

enhanced channels of communication.

In this context, the Council agrees that the EU will not extend the restrictive measures for 170

individuals and three companies whose listings are currently suspended. The Council further

agrees that the arms embargo and the restrictive measures related to the four individuals listed

in connection with the unresolved disappearances of two opposition politicians, one

businessman and one journalist, will be extended for a period of twelve months.

In view of the Belarusian 2016 parliamentary elections, the Council urges the Belarusian

authorities to swiftly take forward the recommendations of the OSCE/ODIHR's final report on

the conduct of the 11 October 2015 Presidential elections, including on the legal and

procedural framework. The Council welcomes Belarus' growing openness to dialogue and

cooperation with the OSCE/ODIHR. The Council recalls the importance it attaches to

improvements in this area and to respect for human rights, democracy and the rule of law in

Belarus.

6122/16

Rådsmøde nr. 3447 (udenrigsanliggender) den 15. februar 2016 - Bilag 1336848:

15 February 2016

The Council condemns the application of the death penalty in Belarus, and notably deplores

the two recent death sentences pronounced, and urges the Belarusian authorities to set up a

moratorium as a first step towards its abolition. The Council looks forward to forthcoming

expert and public events on the death penalty planned to take place in 2016.

The Council reiterates its call for the reinstatement of the civil and political rights of former

political prisoners and highlights the need to ensure freedom of association and assembly,

including by allowing the registration of political and civil society organisations. The Council

stresses the importance of a vibrant civil society to the social and economic well-being of a

country, and calls on the Belarusian authorities to allow civil society to be more involved in

the discussions on government policy. The Council further urges the Belarusian authorities to

eliminate all obstacles to the exercise of a free and independent media, including through the

registration of new media outlets and the accreditation of journalists. The Council further calls

on Belarus to respect the rights of persons belonging to national minorities. The Council will

continue to follow closely the situation in this regard.

The Council welcomes the resumption of the EU-Belarus Human Rights Dialogue and looks

forward to its next round, which Belarus has offered to host in Minsk in late spring. Together

with Belarus' engagement in the 2015 Universal Periodic Review these are positive steps and

the Council encourages the Belarusian authorities to continue work in these areas and calls on

Belarus to do so with the participation of civil society.

The EU further calls on Belarus to follow up on recommendations made by UN treaty bodies

and to cooperate fully with UN special procedures - including the Special Rapporteur on the

situation of human rights in Belarus - and other mechanisms. The Council encourages

increased cooperation between Belarus and the Council of Europe with a view to becoming a

full member.

The Council reiterates the EU’s willingness to assist Belarus to meet its obligations towards

democratisation and full respect for human rights, and looks forward to discuss these matters

soon at a bilateral level.

The Council reiterates its firm commitment to strengthening the EU's engagement with the

Belarusian people and civil society. The EU attaches great importance to enhanced people-to-

people contacts with Belarus, to be encouraged through programmes such as Erasmus+, and

looks forward to the swift conclusion of the negotiations and signature of the Visa Facilitation

Agreement, the Readmission Agreement and the Mobility Partnership.

The Council reaffirms that good neighbourly relations and regional cooperation are important

elements for enhancing EU-Belarus cooperation. Recalling its conclusions of 20 July 2015 on

Energy Diplomacy the Council reiterates the importance of ensuring nuclear safety beyond

the borders of the EU and calls on Belarus to cooperate constructively with the relevant

international authorities in this regard.

10.

6122/16

Rådsmøde nr. 3447 (udenrigsanliggender) den 15. februar 2016 - Bilag 1336848:

15 February 2016

11.

The Council remains open to the further development of EU-Belarus relations, and to taking

further steps to enhance political relations and sectoral cooperation in the appropriate context.

The Council welcomes the Commission's intention to start Twinning cooperation with

Belarus this year. It underlines the importance of the ENP Review and notes that Belarus

provides a good opportunity to apply a differentiated approach. The Council therefore decided

to accelerate the implementation of measures aimed at enhancing EU-Belarus cooperation in a

number of economic, trade and assistance related fields, with the goal of modernising Belarus

and its economy and for the benefit of the Belarusian population, including in view of WTO

accession and in cooperation with International Financial Institutions, in particular the EIB

and the EBRD in line with their respective mandates. The Council also encourages Belarus to

accelerate much needed economic reforms. Tangible steps taken by Belarus to respect

universal fundamental freedoms, rule of law and human rights will remain key for the shaping

of the EU's future policy towards Belarus.

The Council will remain seized of the work of the EU-Belarus Coordination Group as a

follow-up to the Interim Phase on modernisation issues, including an agenda which contains

human rights issues, and looks forward to the involvement of civil society."

12.

6122/16

Rådsmøde nr. 3447 (udenrigsanliggender) den 15. februar 2016 - Bilag 1336848:

15 February 2016

On the margins of the Council:

–

EU-Kyrgyz Republic Cooperation Council

The Council approved the EU's position regarding the agenda set for the 14th meeting of the EU-

Kyrgyz Republic Cooperation Council.

For details, see the

press release.

6122/16

Rådsmøde nr. 3447 (udenrigsanliggender) den 15. februar 2016 - Bilag 1336848:

15 February 2016

OTHER ITEMS APPROVED

FOREIGN AFFAIRS

EU priorities at UN Human Rights Fora in 2016

The Council approved the following conclusions:

"1.

In this 10th anniversary year of the UN Human Rights Council and ahead of its 31st session,

the EU reaffirms its strong commitment to the United Nations bodies tasked with the

promotion and protection of human rights. The EU will again actively engage with the Human

Rights Council and General Assembly Third Committee to defend and promote the

universality, indivisibility, and interdependence of human rights, and will continue to draw

the attention of these fora to human rights violations and abuses worldwide.

Welcoming the dedication and work of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and his

staff, the EU will continue to support and defend the integrity, independence and functioning

of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, which undertakes essential work

in advancing human rights worldwide and translating norms into improvements on the

ground.

The EU promotes a proactive, responsive, and impactful UN human rights system and

strongly supports further mainstreaming of human rights across the work of the United

Nations. In that vein, the EU seeks cooperation with partners from all regions to ensure that

the UN bodies pursue an ambitious thematic agenda and address the gravest human rights

situations around the world, clearly condemning in the strongest terms human rights

violations and abuses, as well as violence and discrimination.

The EU calls on all states to offer their full cooperation with the UN Human Rights Council

Special Procedures, including by ensuring mandate holders' unhindered access to and contact

with individuals and civil society. The EU underlines the importance of the Universal

Periodic Review and calls upon all countries to fully engage with and commit to this process.

Similarly, the EU reaffirms its strong support for the UN treaty bodies, which play a

fundamental role in monitoring compliance with human rights obligations.

6122/16

Rådsmøde nr. 3447 (udenrigsanliggender) den 15. februar 2016 - Bilag 1336848:

15 February 2016

Syria is host to the most acute and dire human rights and humanitarian crisis of recent history,

which must be given the full attention of the UN human rights bodies. The EU calls for an

immediate end of human rights violations and abuses by the Assad regime and all other

parties to the conflict; supports the continued work of the Commission of Inquiry; urges all

actors to allow immediate, unhindered, and ongoing access for humanitarian assistance;

demands full accountability and an end to impunity; and again reiterates its call to the UN

Security Council to refer the situation in Syria to the International Criminal Court. The EU

also continues to condemn in the strongest terms the continued gross, systematic and

widespread human rights abuses carried out by Da'esh, including in Syria, Iraq and Libya, and

calls for accountability for these acts. Furthermore the EU urges the Government of Iraq, as

well as the Kurdistan Regional Government, to uphold the rights of all Iraqi citizens and

ensure that allegations of violations and abuses are fully investigated.

Given the ongoing and grave human rights situation in the DPRK, the EU will continue

working with Japan and like-minded partners to draw attention to the human rights violations

committed by the DPRK, and to keep up the momentum for international accountability

efforts, and renews its call for the UN Security Council to consider the referral of the situation

in the DPRK to the International Criminal Court.

The EU will highlight the serious human rights violations and abuses linked to the conflict in

eastern Ukraine and the deeply concerning human rights situation on the Crimean peninsula,

the illegal annexation of which by the Russian Federation the EU does not recognise and

continues to condemn. The EU lends full support to the UN Human Rights Monitoring

Mission in Ukraine and calls on all actors involved to respect international humanitarian and

human rights law. The overall strengthening of the rule of law also remains of fundamental

importance for the observance of human rights and fundamental freedoms in Ukraine.

The EU will ensure that heightened attention is devoted to the deteriorating human rights

situation in Burundi, and reiterates its call for an end to violence and human rights violations

and abuses. The EU will continue to insist on an adequate and effective response from the

HRC to the distressing state of affairs in South Sudan, where hostilities have led to massive

human rights violations. The EU again condemns the abuses of human rights perpetrated by

terrorist groups in Africa, especially the attacks targeting women and children by Boko

Haram. In this, the African Year of Human Rights, the EU will engage with African partners

to support Human Rights Council action on the Central African Republic, Mali, the

Democratic Republic of the Congo, Eritrea, and Sudan.

6122/16

Rådsmøde nr. 3447 (udenrigsanliggender) den 15. februar 2016 - Bilag 1336848:

15 February 2016

In light of ongoing human rights violations and the high rate of executions in Iran, and with a

view to improving the human rights situation, the EU will again support the extension of the

mandate of the Special Rapporteur. The EU will also promote appropriate Human Rights

Council attention to the situation of human rights in Libya and the occupied Palestinian

territory. The EU will also seek appropriate action on the deteriorating humanitarian and

human rights situation in Yemen. The EU remains concerned about individuals sentenced to

death in Saudi Arabia for actions they committed as minors and mass executions. The EU will

continue to follow closely the human rights situation in Belarus.

Welcoming the historic elections in Myanmar/Burma in November 2015, the EU will review

its initiatives in the light of developments on the ground, encouraging the new government to

take swift and bold action to address ongoing human rights concerns and bring about further

improvements. The EU will also follow closely Sri Lanka's efforts in addressing human rights

issues and in establishing a credible process of transitional justice, accountability, and

reconciliation.

As a firm advocate of the abolition of the death penalty, the EU is opposed to the death

penalty whenever and wherever it is used. The EU will speak out against executions

particularly in the case of mass executions or when the death penalty is applied to offences

committed by those under 18. The EU will continue to draw attention to violations of

minimum standards. Concerned by the number of countries resuming executions, the EU will

seek to reinforce cross-regional support to the resolution on a moratorium on the death

penalty at the General Assembly. The EU will also speak out and support the UN's work

against torture and other cruel, inhumane and degrading treatment or punishment.

The EU will further uphold the freedoms of opinion and expression offline and online, and the

freedoms of association and assembly, as cornerstones of democracy and contributors to the

peaceful resolution of conflict. Valuing a strong partnership with civil society, the EU

opposes the imposition of unjustified or disproportionate restrictions on the activities,

registration, and access to funding of civil society organisations, including in the name of

combatting terrorism. The EU further condemns all instances of harassment, intimidation, or

persecution, including violent attacks and killings, of human rights defenders, journalists, or

bloggers; and deplores all acts of reprisal against individuals and civil society organisations

for cooperating with the United Nations.

The EU will promote the principles of equality and non-discrimination, firmly opposing

discrimination on any ground or status, including discrimination based on sexual orientation

and gender identity. The EU reaffirms its strong and worldwide opposition to all forms of

racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia, and related intolerance. The EU will also continue

to promote freedom of religion or belief, strongly oppose religious intolerance, and call for

greater protection of persons belonging to religious and other minorities against persecution

and violence. As freedom of religion or belief and freedom of expression are interdependent,

promoting both is integral to the fight against intolerance and discrimination based on religion

or belief.

10.

11.

12.

13.

6122/16

Rådsmøde nr. 3447 (udenrigsanliggender) den 15. februar 2016 - Bilag 1336848:

15 February 2016

14.

Resolved to promote gender equality, women's empowerment and the advancement of

women's rights, the Council recalls its conclusions on Gender in Development of 26 May

2015 and renews its strong commitment to gender equality, human rights, the empowerment

of women and girls and the eradication of gender-based violence. The EU remains committed

to the promotion, protection and fulfilment of all human rights and to the full and effective

implementation of the Beijing Platform for Action and the Programme of Action of the ICPD

and the outcomes of their review conferences and remains committed to sexual and

reproductive health and rights, in this context. The EU will continue to pursue efforts to

implement effectively UN Security Council resolution 1325 and subsequent resolutions on

Women, Peace, and Security. Moreover, the EU will step up efforts to prevent and eliminate

all forms of violence against women and girls around the world.

In keeping with its longstanding policy, the EU will work for the promotion and protection of

the rights of the child worldwide. The EU will intensify work to protect girls and boys from

all forms of violence and abuse, sexual exploitation, and harmful practices, such as female

genital mutilation and child, early, and forced marriage. The EU will also remain invested in

the international work to protect and assist children affected by armed conflict.

The EU underlines the importance of comprehensive and effective implementation of the

Agenda 2030, including through a rights-based approach, encompassing all human rights and

gender equality, to realizing the Sustainable Development Goals, and will advocate for the

promotion and protection of human rights in the context of climate change. In 2016, the EU

will moreover step up efforts to advance the protection and promotion of economic, social and

cultural rights. The EU will also implement and promote, including with third countries, the

UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights and support efforts to improve access

to effective remedies.

The EU will underline the importance of compliance with international refugee law and of

protecting the human rights of asylum seekers, refugees, migrants, and all displaced persons,

particularly bearing in mind the specific risks faced by women and children. The Union,

amongst many others, faces a major challenge in responding to the global refugee crisis, but

remains steadfast in its commitment to guaranteeing the right to asylum and the highest level

of protection of human rights for all.

Fifty years after the adoption of the International Covenants on Economic, Social, and

Cultural Rights and on Civil and Political Rights in 1966, the EU issues a renewed call for

their universal ratification. Recalling the Strategic Framework on Human Rights and

Democracy and the Action Plan on Human Rights and Democracy for 2015–2019, the EU

reaffirms its commitment to the universality, indivisibility and interdependence of all human

rights. The EU will engage countries, organisations and stakeholders from all regions,

including through the EU Special Representative for Human Rights, to promote the

realization of all human rights, everywhere and for everyone."

15.

16.

17.

18.

6122/16

Rådsmøde nr. 3447 (udenrigsanliggender) den 15. februar 2016 - Bilag 1336848:

15 February 2016

Burundi

The Council approved the following conclusions:

"1.

Despite all the efforts of the international community, the situation in Burundi remains

deadlocked. The country is the scene of recurrent violence and violations and abuses of

human rights. The European Union (EU) strongly condemns any use of force to solve the

crisis in Burundi. The lack of the prospect of a political solution increases the risk of

hardening positions and violent confrontation. The situation is likely to be worsened by the

country's economic fragility. In that context, the EU reiterates the priority it attaches to

protecting and supporting the population.

Only an inclusive political dialogue, under international mediation and in compliance with the

Arusha Agreement and the Constitution of Burundi, can provide a solution to the crisis. The

EU commends the mediation efforts of the East African Community (EAC), which helped to

organise the first inter-Burundian dialogue meeting on 28 December in Entebbe. The inter-

Burundian dialogue must be resumed urgently in a truly inclusive framework and without

preconditions. The EU calls on all parties, and in particular the Burundian authorities, to

subscribe to that approach.

The EU takes note of the decisions adopted by the Peace and Security Council of the

African Union (AU), at its 571st meeting, held on 29 January 2016, at the level of Heads of

State and Government. The EU welcomes the AU's decision to dispatch a very high level AU

delegation to Burundi to meet with the highest authorities of the Republic of Burundi, as well

as with other Burundian stakeholders. It should travel to Burundi as quickly as possible in

order to launch consultations on the inclusive inter-Burundian dialogue. The EU welcomes

the entreaty to all Burundian stakeholders to respond, unconditionally and without delay, to

the call of the mediator for the continuation of a genuine and inclusive dialogue. The EU is

also encouraged by the AU's strong condemnation of all acts of violence, whoever the

perpetrators, and its condemnation of the persistence of impunity.

The EU welcomes the visit of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to Burundi on

21 and 22 January 2016, and stresses the importance attributed by the members of the UNSC

to the need for a political solution for Burundi, supported by an international presence in the

country. In that context it welcomes the work of the Special Adviser to the Secretary-General.

The EU supports the increased involvement of the UN, AU and EAC in mediation efforts, and

reiterates its commitment to supporting mediation.

Recalling the need for the international community to be able to cope with a worsening of the

situation, the EU stresses the importance of continuing work in that regard and reiterates its

commitment to supporting the steps taken by the UN and the AU to prepare coordinated

emergency plans.

6122/16

Rådsmøde nr. 3447 (udenrigsanliggender) den 15. februar 2016 - Bilag 1336848:

15 February 2016

The EU will adopt the appropriate measures necessary in view of the lack of positive signals.

The fact is that consultations under Article 96 of the Cotonou Agreement, held in Brussels on

8 December, were not able to remedy Burundi's failure to respect essential elements of the

partnership. The full participation of the Government of Burundi in the inter-Burundian

dialogue, as requested by the UN Security Council and the AU's Peace and Security Council,

is essential. Any other step towards de-escalation and political opening will also be a very

significant positive signal. The EU, which is one of Burundi's main development partners,

confirms its willingness to continue its support for the Burundian population through its

development activities.

The EU remains ready to fund humanitarian actions to assist the Burundian population and

calls on the authorities to ensure immediate, safe and unhindered access for humanitarian

workers in Burundi.

The recent attacks by armed rebel groups against law enforcement officials and the country's

institutions are unacceptable, as is the disproportionate use of force in retaliation by the

internal security forces. The EU expresses its solidarity with all the victims of violence.

The EU points out that any individual involved in acts of violence and violations or serious

abuses of human rights, including incitement to hatred, must be held responsible and brought

to account in a court of law. The EU draws attention to the restrictive measures it adopted on

1 October 2015 and stands ready to impose restrictive measures against those whose actions

might have led or might lead to acts of violence and repression, serious human rights

violations, and/or might hamper the search for a political solution within the framework

proposed by the AU and the EAC.

The EU remains extremely concerned by the increasing number of reported cases of

violations and abuses of human rights, some of which involve the security forces. The reports

from the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights on the alleged existence of mass graves,

cases of sexual violence, arbitrary detentions, disappearances and summary executions are

alarming and call for full clarification through the establishment of a thorough, impartial and

credible investigation.

In addition, the EU expresses its deep concern about the continued intimidation and

harassment of representatives of the opposition and civil society. It reminds the Burundian

Government of its international obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and

Political Rights, in particular regarding the respect of fundamental freedoms and the rule of

law and the handling of court cases, in particular the right to a fair and impartial trial. It

encourages the Burundian Government to guarantee freedom of expression as well as freedom

of the press, enabling Burundian and foreign journalists to investigate and report without

hindrance or intimidation. The opposition must refrain from the use of violence.

10.

6122/16

Rådsmøde nr. 3447 (udenrigsanliggender) den 15. februar 2016 - Bilag 1336848:

15 February 2016

11.

In this regard, the EU fully supports the deployment of AU experts and the dispatch of an

expert mission by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights in accordance with the

resolution adopted by the UN Human Rights Council at its extraordinary meeting on

17 December 2015. Taking also into account Burundi's recent election at the UN Human

Rights Council, the EU calls on the Burundian authorities to facilitate immediate deployment

of these experts and the expert mission; it considers that their presence will help de-escalate

the situation and protect the population.

Significant progress has been made in cooperation and development in the Great Lakes

Region in recent years. The crisis in Burundi calls into question recent progress. The EU calls

on countries in the region to show responsibility and contribute to a solution to the crisis, and

not to support the activities of armed movements in any way."

12.

Somalia

The Council approved the following conclusions:

"1.

The Somali Compact launched at the Brussels New Deal Conference for Somalia in

September 2013 has provided an essential framework for the reconstruction of Somalia. It has

allowed for coordinated support to Somali authorities for the promotion of an inclusive

political process, security, the rule of law and socio-economic development. It is the keystone

of Somalia's partnership with the international community. The EU highlights the importance

of renewing the Compact beyond 2016, whilst preserving its essential elements. The EU

reaffirms its commitment to support the development and stability of Somalia.

The EU will continue to work closely with the Somali authorities, the United Nations (UN),

the African Union (AU) and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) as

well as other key actors, in the immediate region and beyond, and looks forward to the

forthcoming Ministerial High Level Partnership Forum (HLPF) on Somalia in Istanbul to

assess next steps in its partnership with Somalia. This meeting should focus on finalising the

political process, securing Somalia and restoring state authority and public services in the

territories recovered from al-Shabaab.

Somalia has entered a crucial year to consolidate political progress, notably on the formation

of interim regional administrations, and to succeed in the electoral process by August 2016.

Further genuine progress depends on Somali-led inclusive and accountable political

processes, which should ensure participation of all, including women and persons belonging

to minorities. The EU welcomes the progress of the state formation process and calls for the

swift finalisation of an interim regional administration in Hiraan and Middle Shabelle, and for

the definition of the status of Benadir. Reconciliation, inclusivity and capacity-building at the

local level are crucial to prevent frictions, and to ensure the long term security and

sustainability of a federal Somalia. The EU urges the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS)

to revitalise the constitutional review process, with a view to adopting a Constitution that is

widely consulted and supports cooperation and coordination among the various Regional

Administrations.

6122/16

Rådsmøde nr. 3447 (udenrigsanliggender) den 15. februar 2016 - Bilag 1336848:

15 February 2016

The recent decision on the model for the electoral process represents an important step

forward. The EU looks forward to its swift implementation and constructive engagement from

all stakeholders, including the Parliament, in order to comply with constitutional deadlines.

The EU welcomes the 30 percent quota for women in both houses of parliament and expects

all Somali leaders to adhere to the commitment. To ensure the respect of electoral process

deadlines, an implementation plan should be presented by the Somali authorities at the next

HLPF; extension of the mandate of the Parliament would not be acceptable. This year's

electoral process should mark a significant improvement in comparison with the 2012 process

and should be more legitimate and inclusive. It should also be a step towards holding one-

person-one-vote elections in 2020, planning for which needs to start now. The EU is ready to

support the process, but highlights the need for the Somali political leadership and all

stakeholders to honour their commitments.

Security and stabilisation of the country still remain a key priority and a prerequisite for

sustainable state-building and development. The EU strongly condemns all terrorist attacks by

al-Shabaab, including the recent large-scale attacks on the AU Mission to Somalia

(AMISOM) and pays tribute to the sacrifices made by AMISOM, the Somali National Army

(SNA) troops, as well as by Somali civilians. The EU recognises the significant territorial

gains and overall progress, made by the SNA and AMISOM since its launch in restoring

peace and security in Somalia and in the fight against al-Shabaab, but underlines that the

overall security situation remains volatile.

The EU, through its African Peace Facility (APF), has been a crucial supporter of AMISOM

since 2007 in its efforts to fulfil its mandate to defeat al-Shabaab. The mission's operational

effectiveness needs to be revitalised and enhanced. In this context, the EU recalls the results

of the joint AU-UN benchmarking exercise and its recommendations, endorsed in UN

Security Council Resolution 2232 (2015). It underlines the importance to resume offensive

operations against al-Shabaab in a well coordinated manner, in full compliance with

qualitative improvements requested by UNSC and with applicable international law.

Enhanced operational effectiveness should be achieved notably by strengthening Command

and Control structures, by closer cooperation, under the leadership of the AU, among Troop

Contributing Countries as well as by further coordination with the SNA and Somali Police

Forces (SPF). The EU encourages further review of their campaign planning.

AMISOM forces must observe international human rights and humanitarian law and ensure

the protection of civilians. In this context, the EU welcomes the creation of the Civilian

Casualty Tracking, Analysis, and Response Cell within AMISOM and looks forward to the

publication of its first progress report. Military advances should be aligned with stabilisation

support efforts by Somali authorities to establish or improve governance structures in the

recovered areas and by the provision of basic services, including security. The participation of

women in roles as peacemakers and in governance structures should be increased.

6122/16

Rådsmøde nr. 3447 (udenrigsanliggender) den 15. februar 2016 - Bilag 1336848:

15 February 2016

Security and stabilisation can only become sustainable if supported by an effective SNA and

an integrated civilian stabilisation effort, including SPF, followed by a quick deployment of a

civil administration. Therefore, the EU regrets the limited progress in the development of an

overall National Security Architecture that is essential for a sustainable security sector. It

urges the Somali authorities to prioritise the fight against al-Shabaab and to focus on speedy,

coordinated and sustainable integration of regional forces as well as renewed commitment to,

and implementation of, the President's pledge for significant reforms of the security sector,

with a particular focus on financial management systems. The FGS has an obligation to pay

its security forces and progress should be accelerated to implement a realistic security sector

budget, as well as to increase transparency, accountability and civilian oversight. Poor

financial accountability and absence of payroll reform risk undermining current achievements.

The swift implementation of the Guulwade (Victory) Plan will be essential to AMISOM's

eventual exit strategy. As the mandate and model for the SPF are emerging, the Heegan

(Readiness) Plan needs to be finalised, supported at political level and operationalized.

Essential conditions for balanced development and peace dividends across the country can be

created on this basis. The EU reiterates its strong and urgent call on the AU and Somali

authorities to invite other partners, especially from the immediate region, to contribute

substantially to sustainable and predictable funding both for AMISOM and for the Somali

security forces.

The EU welcomes the effective contribution of the CSDP missions and operation in Somalia

and the Horn of Africa. Following a comprehensive review of this engagement, the Council

confirms its intention to extend the mandates of the three CSDP missions and operation until

December 2018, with a view to further enhancing the EU's Comprehensive Approach in

Somalia and the Horn of Africa, in particular the security-development nexus. In this regard,

the EU reiterates its resolve to implement as soon as possible its initiative for Capacity

Building in support of Security and Development (CBSD).

In particular, the EU considers it indispensable to build up the capacities of Somali defence

institutions, including by the provision of equipment to train and maintain needed capabilities.

The military CSDP Training Mission in Somalia (EUTM Somalia) will therefore continue to

provide strategic advice to the Ministry of Defence and the General Staff as well as provide

direct training support to the Somali National Army. The EU furthermore recognises that the

dramatic reduction in pirate activity in the Western Indian Ocean is a major achievement and

commends the significant contribution of counter-piracy operations such as EUNAVFOR

Operation ATALANTA to this end. However, criminal networks ashore still exist and the

threat of resurgence of piracy therefore remains. Hence, it welcomes the continued focus of

Operation ATALANTA on countering piracy off the coast of Somalia, albeit with a

downscaled force posture, while retaining the capacity to scale up should piracy resurge. The

EU calls on the Federal Government of Somalia to further increase its contribution to counter-

piracy and maritime security. It also welcomes the important role of EUCAP Nestor, in

cooperation with other actors, including EU's Maritime Security Programme and the Critical

Maritime Routes Programme, to reinforce civilian maritime security capacities in Somalia,

including by contributing to a pertinent rule of law framework in Somalia. Moving forward

the mission will be renamed and refocused.

6122/16

Rådsmøde nr. 3447 (udenrigsanliggender) den 15. februar 2016 - Bilag 1336848:

15 February 2016

The EU recalls the adoption of the Horn of Africa Regional Action Plan 2015-2020 in

October 2015 and notes that trans-regional threats such as trafficking in human beings and

drugs, smuggling of migrants, illegal trade in charcoal, illegal fishing and proliferation of

small arms and light weapons require increased attention, especially where such illegal

activities form a source of income for al-Shabaab and other spoilers. The EU is concerned

about the possible spill over effects of the conflict in Yemen as well as the importance of

ongoing regional rivalries on efforts towards the stabilisation of Somalia and calls on all

partners to ensure that their interventions are conducive to the country's successful transition.

The EU is alarmed by continued serious violations of international humanitarian law and

violations and abuses of human rights, including violence against women and children and

attacks against journalists. It is essential to bring those responsible to justice. The EU

encourages the Federal Government to take concrete measures to implement fully its Human

Rights Roadmap adopted in August 2013 and to increase efforts in implementing its action

plans on children and armed conflict, as well as to apply a moratorium on the death penalty.

The EU also encourages the Somali authorities to enact the necessary legislation to

operationalize its Human Rights Commission.

The EU urges the FGS to continue the implementation of financial governance reforms in

order to improve transparency and accountability of the government's finances with a view to

increasing public and donor confidence. Efforts to strengthen the public financial

management systems are an important building block towards debt relief. The forthcoming

National Development Plan should enable Somali ownership, capacity development, and

support implementation at the decentralised level.

In the context of the Valletta Action Plan and the Khartoum Process, the EU looks forward to

working with the FGS on promoting and facilitating the voluntary return and reintegration of

refugees and internally displaced persons, subject to the situation on the ground, as well as the

return of Somalis who do not have legal basis to stay in the EU. During the October 2015

Brussels Conference, the EU renewed its commitment to provide assistance to support the

2013 Tripartite Agreement on Voluntary Repatriation of Somali Refugees from Kenya

between the Governments of Kenya and Somalia, and UNHCR through the Emergency Trust

Fund for Stability and Addressing the Root Causes of Irregular Migration and Displaced

Persons in Africa.

The EU is concerned about the persistently high levels of humanitarian needs in Somalia

currently exacerbated by El Niño. The EU remains committed to the provision of principled

humanitarian assistance based on needs, provided in a neutral, impartial and independent

manner and notes that a total of 166 M€ of EU and member states humanitarian assistance has

been made available since 2015. The EU recognises the necessity of finding durable solutions

to address the root causes of the persistent humanitarian needs. The EU also recognises the

continued need to strengthen the resilience of vulnerable populations and enhance emergency

preparedness."

10.

11.

12.

6122/16

Rådsmøde nr. 3447 (udenrigsanliggender) den 15. februar 2016 - Bilag 1336848:

15 February 2016

Zimbabwe - sanctions

The Council prolonged EU restrictive measures against two persons and one entity in Zimbabwe

until 20 February 2017, while removing the names of 78 persons and 8 entities from the list of those

targeted by the measures.

The decision maintains the application of restrictive measures for 7 persons and one entity, but it

renews the suspension of measures for five of these persons.

For details, see the

press release.

Special representative for human rights - financial reference amount

The Council set a financial reference amount of €825 000 to cover the expenditure related to the

mandate of the EU Special Representative for Human Rights from 1 March 2016 to 28 February

2017.

On 25 July 2012, the Council appointed Stavros Lambrinidis as the EU Special Representative for

Human Rights. On 17 February 2015, it extended his mandate until 28 February 2017.

COMMON FOREIGN AND SECURITY POLICY

EU border assistance mission in Libya - mandate extension

The Council extended the mandate of the civilian EU integrated border management assistance

mission in Libya by six months, until 21 August 2016.

It set a financial reference amount of €4 475 000 to cover the expenditure related to the mission for

the period from 22 February 2016 to 21 August 2016.

For details, see the

press release.

Exercises and exercise-related activities under the CFSP 2016-2020

The Council adopted the draft European Union Programme of Exercises and Exercise-Related

Activities under the CFSP 2016-2020 as set out in document 5911/16 and will send it to NATO.

6122/16