02649057-c005-45c7-b25e-311dc2bc9113-150226091533-conversion-gate01

EUROPEAN YOUTH PARLIAMENT UNITED KINGDOM - JULY 2014 1
Dear Delegates,
It is my pleasure and honour to introduce myself, the Chairs team, and the
resolution topics for the 2014 Summer National Session of the European Youth
Parliament United Kingdom.
Throughout the session you will have the chance to discuss important political,
social and economic issues which are affecting the EU today. Through Committee
Work and General Assembly you have an opportunity to provide your opinion
and insight into how we think these issues should be addressed.
The National Session is a wonderful forum in which you can have interesting,
passionate and probably controversial debates with your peers from across the
UK. In order to take full advantage of this I strongly urge you to arrive at the
session armed with knowledge on your topic.
The Chairs have devoted their time to providing thorough overviews for each
topic to help spark your interest in these issue and offer a springboard for your
own research. Do not feel limited by the information provided in this booklet –
undertake your own research to discover engaging and eye-opening statistics and
stories.
I encourage you to look beyond your own topic and read the overviews that
your colleagues will be working on. These topics will all come together in General
Assembly, so being armed with relevant and accurate information will serve you
well during the debates.
I will now leave you to begin your reading and begin getting excited for the
Session which is only a few weeks away.
I look forward to meeting you all in Liverpool!
Yours,
Laura Hibberd
President of the Session
Welcome from the
Session President

GLOBAL EUROPE
We live in a globalised world. Improvements in communication and changes throughout
international markets have made the Europe and its Member States players on the global
stage. The EU is confronted by more diverse and complex challenges than ever before.
With the rapid development of new economies and an ever-expanding web of
interdependent trade and diplomacy, the EU must clearly establish its place in the world.
Acting as a cohesive body, the possibilities are endless. Yet, the future relationship between
Europe and the international community remains unclear.
At the UK National Sessions of 2014, this concept will be addressed using the following
three categories:
Investing in our Future
With booming new economies in the Far East and the Americas, Europe is losing its
dominance in international markets. Additionally, it is becoming more crucial than ever to
protect our climate and limit our use of natural resources. How can Europe support its
businesses and markets and maintain its competitiveness on the global stage? How can
we adapt our trade policies and links to best take advantage of a globalized world? And
how can we simultaneously support the green technology sector in an attempt to protect
the future of our planet?
Promoting our Values
In a world where many countries are still ridden with corruption and conflict, Europe is
perceived globally as a beacon of democracy. Our comparative stability leaves many to
believe we have a responsibility to assert ourselves against global malpractices, intervene
in bloody conflicts and offer aid to those in need. However, is it our place to impose our
morals on cultures and countries so different from our own? Is aid and support from the
EU beneficial, or does it create a culture of dependence? How can we balance preserving
our values with maintaining crucial trade relationships with global partners?
Embracing our Diversity
It would be wrong to assume Global Europe only involves countries in the confines of our
continent. Europe’s Member States are more multicultural than ever, and this has brought
both benefits and challenges in equal measure. How can Europe ensure its policy represents
the views of its diverse population and ensure cultural integration? How can we combat
the ominous rise of xenophobia reflected in the increase in popularity and number of far
right parties and movements? And how can immigration policies balance the desire for
social justice and opportunity with pragmatism?
Session Theme

Investing in Our Future
1) Committee on Employment and Social Affairs (EMPL)
In 2013 youth unemployment across the EU-28 was 23%, how can the EU effectively support its youth
through the transition from education to employment?
2) Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (ENVI)
With such diverse opinions across Member States on the benefits of fracking, what stance should the EU
take bearing in mind the need to achieve the Europe 2020 targets?
3) Committee on International Trade (INTA)
Although the deadline for concluding Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) is set for October 2014,
few African states have concluded such agreements with the EU. How should the EU proceed in order to
maintain trade links with African states?
Promoting Our Values
4) Committee on Foreign Affairs (AFET)
In light of the Turkish government’s response to the protests in Gezi 2013, how should the EU proceed
regarding Turkey’s accession negotiations?
5) Committee on Human Rights (DROI)
Despite the 2011 Directive on Human Trafficking and the 2012 EU Strategy towards the Eradication of
Trafficking in Human Beings, human trafficking remains the slavery of our times. How can Member States
work together to tackle human trafficking more effectively in the EU?
6) Committee on Security and Defence (SEDE)
Despite the EU’s Common Policy on Arms Exports and the United Nation’s Arms Trade Treaty (ATT),
Member States continue to export arms to states with poor human rights records, such as China and
Saudi Arabia. How can the EU ensure the Common Policy is better enforced?
Embracing our Diversity
7) Committee on Culture and Education (CULT)
Member States have committed to promoting and protecting minority languages under the European
Charter for Regional or Minority Languages. With languages becoming increasingly important due to
globalisation, how should Member States protect minority languages whilst also promoting mobility
through different lingua francas?”
8) Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs I (LIBE I)
With the rise in popularity of extreme right parties in several Member States, how should the EU respond
to these parties whilst continuing to promote freedom of speech and democracy?
Committee Topics

9) Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs II (LIBE II)
Non-discrimination is a core principle of the European Union, and yet there remains considerable
discrimination against the Roma community across Member States. What more can the EU do to eliminate
this discrimination?
Committee Topics

In 2013 youth unemployment across the EU-28 was 23%, how can the EU effectively support
its youth through the transition from education to employment?
Christian Browne (UK)
A. Relevance and explanation of the problem
With Europe’s economy still recovering from the 2008 recession, young people leaving higher education
are finding it increasingly difficult to gain employment. Various schemes have been introduced to help
young people enter the job market, but have not entirely succeeded. Youth unemployment in Europe is
22.6%, compared to the USA’s 16%1
, and hindering Member States’ recovery. Unless the EU and Member
States put in place functioning programmes to reduce youth unemployment Europe may encounter
serious financial problems.
Both graduates and those leaving education at 18 are struggling to find work. A lack of job creation and
a growing number of graduates means there are too many applicants per job2
. A further issue is that
internships are unregulated and their quality can vary significantly. Some companies simply use interns
as cheap, or even free, labour and do not provide them with relevant skills3
. Unpaid internships compound
this issue, as many young people cannot afford to take unpaid work. The proportion of unpaid internships
differs across Member States, from 48% in Greece to 76% in Sweden4
. Nevertheless, universities still encourage
students to pursue work placements and internships5
. With the 2008 recession crippling many industrial
sectors, such as engineering and production firms, many companies are reluctant to provide
apprenticeships6
. Therefore young people who have undertaken vocational courses at college are not
able to put their education to use.
1 http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2013/nov/14/youth-unemployment-wreck-europe-economic-recovery
2 In 2013 there were 11% fewer vacancies for graduates compared with 2007 http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/education-
20935521
3 See page 58 of this Report - http://www.mckinsey.de/sites/mck_files/files/a4e2e_2014.pdf
4 Ibid, page 55
5 25% of students at one English university secured placements
http://www.edge.co.uk/media/63412/employability_skills_as_pdf_-_final_online_version.pdf (page 31)
6 http://processengineering.theengineer.co.uk/new-apprenticeships-era-or-wasted-opportunity/1015401.article
Committee on Employment
and Social Affairs

B. Key conflicts
A fundamental issue here is how to best support college and university graduates as they leave education
and seek employment. Currently, internships and work placements seem underwhelming to employers
and employees but are still essential. Some have argued that there is a skill mismatch7
between young
people and the job market they are set to enter, which exacerbates this issue. The problem of how to
maintain themselves during internships and unemployment also remains.
Another issue to address is the decreasing demand for vocational-skilled workers since the recession.
Shrinking industries like construction and manufacturing mean there are fewer jobs for these skills.
Furthermore, there are an increasing number of people becoming long-term unemployed and not gaining
new skills8
.
C. Key questions
 How will the EU deal with an increasing number of graduates given the low number of jobs
available for them?
7 http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/education-25714313
8Also known as NEETs (young person not in education, employment or training) http://ow.ly/xFjN5
and Social Affairs

 How can the EU and Member States help young people gain the necessary skills to ensure they
are employable when they leave higher education?
 How can the EU help further lower unemployment given the fact that they already have training
initiatives in place to reduce unemployment?
 What role should internships and private companies play in any potential solution?
 How can the EU ensure that vocational-skilled workers have adequate opportunities to gain
employment, or new qualifications and skills desired by the job market?
D. Key actors and Measures in Place
The EU has a supportive competency regarding training, education and employment9
, meaning the EU
can support, coordinate or supplement initiatives adopted by Member States.
European Public Employment Services (PES) act across Member States to address issues regarding
unemployment as well as provide solutions to the problem. Each PES assesses the labour market and
makes adjustments according to what the market needs. The PES 2020 strategy aims to reduce both
unemployment and the effects of being unemployed, for example the dependence on unemployment
benefits. It requests further involvement from PES in the labour market such as integration, social
innovation and inclusiveness
The European Commission is also tackling youth unemployment. There are calls for further communication
between Member States, particularly given how differently Member States tackle the issue. In Sweden
unemployed youths who have been out of work for three months are offered specific measures to get
closer to work10
.
The Youth Guarantee11
aims to help Member States’ firms recruit young people, assuring them as an
investment for firms. The Youth Employment Package (YEP), under the Employment Package, focuses on
areas which have over 25% youth unemployment and are exhibiting high levels of social exclusion and
a lack of employment opportunities. Similar measures, such as the Youth Opportunities Initiative and EU-
Skills Panorama, try to tackle the increasing numbers of low-skilled young workers whilst providing more
opportunities for the current low-skilled workers.
9 Article 6 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) - http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-
content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=OJ:C:2012:326:FULL&from=EN
10 http://www.lline.fi/en/article/policy/20134/a-nordic-perspective-on-youth-unemployment
11 http://www.youth-guarantee.eu/
and Social Affairs

E. Key Terms
Compulsory Education: Schooling up until the age of 16.
Higher Education: Education which a young person undertakes after compulsory education, such as college
and sixth form.
Low-skilled worker: Those who did not finish full education or have only basic qualifications in an
unspecialised field.
Labour Demand/Supply: The number of jobs available given the number of people looking for work.
Labour Market: The market which includes jobs available and those looking for jobs.
Primary & Secondary Sectors: Industries such as manufacturing, mining and construction.
Public Employment Service (PES): Each Member State has a PES which works to support and adjust the
labour market in accordance with EU initiatives.
Unemployment: People who are able to work and are looking to work but are not in employment (does
not include those who are unfit to work or retired).
Youth: Those aged 16-24.
F. Links
Background material
Strategies of the EU regarding youth unemployment
http://ec.europa.eu/social/main.jsp?catId=1036
Website for the Youth Guarantee
http://www.youth-guarantee.eu/
Overview of PES aims in regards to youth unemployment
http://pes.cor.europa.eu/Meetings/Events/Pages/youth-employment.aspx
Measures already in place
Official overview of the European Public Employment Services
https://ec.europa.eu/eures/main.jsp?catId=29&acro=eures&lang=en
Overview of the PES 2020 Strategy
and Social Affairs

http://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=web&cd=1&ved=0CCwQFjAA&url=http%3A%2
F%2Fec.europa.eu%2Fsocial%2FBlobServlet%3FdocId%3D9690%26langId%3Den&ei=UIiMU4jLAsWv7Abn7oGQBg&us
g=AFQjCNF0KC4kXN2Nq_1Ux6HpFiIjgV4oWg
Academic article on the Nordic countries’ approach to youth unemployment
http://www.lline.fi/en/article/policy/20134/a-nordic-perspective-on-youth-unemployment
Issue analysis
Report on PES strategies and aims regarding low-skilled workers and youth unemployment
http://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=web&cd=2&ved=0CDQQFjAB&url=http%3A%2
F%2Fec.europa.eu%2Fsocial%2FBlobServlet%3FdocId%3D10797%26langId%3Den&ei=bImMU_3WJMut7QaZh4GoCA&
usg=AFQjCNFjvdJ5MOix01T5zllYmgSZrkjjqw
Detailed look at youth unemployment in Europe
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T7bjoylDuhs
A short look at the causes and effects of youth unemployment (in Germany)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BTsS0s5DHZc
Publication about youth unemployment, education and labour market policy in Europe and the US
http://www.ippr.org/publications/states-of-transition-youth-unemployment,-education-and-labour-market-
policy-in-europe-and-the-us
Opinions
Article discussing the role of apprenticeships in combating youth unemployment in Europe and the United
States
http://www.iie.com/publications/pb/pb13-20.pdf
Discussion about causes of issues regarding getting young people from education to employment
http://www.mckinsey.com/insights/social_sector/converting_education_to_employment_in_europe
and Social Affairs

With such diverse opinions across Member States on the benefits of fracking, what stance should the
EU take bearing in mind the need to achieve the Europe 2020 targets?
Cliona Cowhig (IE)
Hydraulic fracturing or ‘fracking’ is being considered as a source of energy in many EU Member States. Many
European countries have shale gas deposits, therefore fracking offers many potential benefits, such as increasing
energy independence12
. This is particularly important at present due to current EU relations with Russia and the
conflict in Ukraine13
.
However, many believe fracking harms the environment. The chemicals used in this process include carcinogens
and air pollutants and have the potential to contaminate water sources14
. Those in favour of fracking advocate
regulations to prevent this; however, in the US there have been many cases of pollution15
. Other critics fear
there may be long-term problems as a result of these chemicals remaining underground. In response to these
concerns and those over the usage of large volumes of water during the fracking process, there has been
substantial work into new, more environmentally friendly methods of fracking16
.
The fuel extracted as a result of fracking is as controversial as its method of extraction. Shale gas primarily
consists of methane; small volumes of this are released in the fracking process. Methane is considered a “cleaner”
fossil fuel as it releases less carbon dioxide than other fossil fuels. This has led some to believe that fracking has
potential to help Member States reach the legally binding Europe 2020 energy targets17
. There have been signs
that the EU is moving away renewables to focus on fracking18
. While methane produces less carbon emissions,
it is a more potent greenhouse gas than carbon dioxide19
. This release of methane, combined with the energy
put into the construction of fracking equipment, which can only be used for finite periods of time before shale
13 http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/mar/03/europes-gas-supply-ukraine-crisis-russsia-pipelines
14 http://www.businessinsider.com/scary-chemicals-used-in-hydraulic-fracking-2012-3?op=1
15 http://www.usatoday.com/story/money/business/2014/01/05/some-states-confirm-water-pollution-from-drilling/4328859/
16 Article detailing technological advances that address some environmental concerns associated with fracking -
http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/energy/2014/03/140319-5-technologies-for-greener-fracking/
17 http://ec.europa.eu/clima/policies/package/index_en.htm
18 http://www.spiegel.de/international/europe/european-commission-move-away-from-climate-protection-goals-
a-943664.html
19 http://thinkprogress.org/climate/2013/10/02/2708911/fracking-ipcc-methane/
Committee on Environment,
Public Health and Food Safety

gas reserves are exhausted, has brought into question how much the process as a whole contributes to global
warming, and how viable fracking really is as an energy supply.
B. Key conflicts
The main conflict in the fracking debate is between those who fear of the environmental risks and those who
prioritise energy security. This conflict presents itself on a European scale in relation to Member States, as there
is no consensus on fracking. Some states wish to utilise fracking, such as the UK; others are against fracking in
any form, for example France has an absolute ban on fracking20
.
An additional conflict exists between attitudes towards the use of fossil fuels and renewable fuel sources.
Fracking is non-renewable and contributes to global warming. Should the EU focus on renewable sources as
opposed to fracking?
C. Key questions
 What would be the benefits and disadvantages of fracking in EU Member States?
 Should the EU wait for more studies into the effects of fracking to understand its long-term
consequences?
 Is fracking simply a short-term measure?
20 http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2013-10-11/fracking-ban-upheld-by-french-court-as-constitutional.html
Map outlining
shale gas
supplies in
Europe

 How much influence should public opinion have on the subject of fracking?
Energy and environmental policies are shared competencies between the EU and Member States21
. Therefore
the key EU actors are the European Commission and the European Parliament. The EU has not taken a firm
stance on fracking and has only published non-binding recommendations so far. These recommendations have
included the need to assess the environmental risks, monitor air, water and soil quality, inform the public and
ensure operators apply best practices22
. Member States are also essential to the debate, and most have strong
opinions on fracking.
Other key actors opposed to fracking include environmental activists and also companies supplying traditional
fossil fuels, including Gazprom23
. Finally, public opinion is important in this controversial topic, as many are
opposed to fracking taking place across Europe24
.
E. Key Terms
 Hydraulic Fracturing (Fracking) – The process of injecting liquid at high pressure into subterranean rocks,
boreholes, etc. so as to force open existing fissures and extract oil or gas:
 Shale Gas – Natural gas trapped in hard dense deposits of shale formed from ancient sea basins millions
of years ago.
 Methane – The main component of natural gas (and shale gas) fuel. Methane is also a greenhouse
gas which is at least 25 times more potent than carbon dioxide over a 100-year period. It is released
into the atmosphere during shale gas drills, although the amount released is disputed25
.
 Europe 2020 Targets – Five objectives (employment, innovation, education, social inclusion and
climate/energy) to be reached by 2020. For climate change/energy the targets are a 20% reduction in
EU greenhouse gas emissions from 1990 levels, raising the share of EU energy consumption produced
21 See Article 4 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union - http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-
22 http://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/LexUriServ.do?uri=OJ:L:2014:039:0072:0078:EN:PDF
23 http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2012-06-21/gazprom-biggest-loser-as-shale-gas-upends-world-markets.html
24 http://www.theguardian.com/environment/2014/may/06/fracking-trespass-law-changes-opposed-by-74-of-britons
25 http://www.euractiv.com/energy/shale-gas-firms-face-methane-emi-news-530893

from renewable resources to 20% and a 20% increase in energy efficiency. The climate and energy
package is a set of binding legislation which aims to ensure the EU meets these targets.
F. Links
Background Material
Video on the science of fracking and exploring risks and benefits
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uti2niW2BRA
US Environmental Protection Agency’s information about fracking
http://water.epa.gov/type/groundwater/uic/class2/hydraulicfracturing/hydraulic-fracturing.cfm
Issue Analysis
Article on the importance of energy independence in light of conflict in the Ukraine
http://www.businessweek.com/news/2014-05-05/ukraine-shows-need-for-fracking-in-europe-u-dot-k-dot-minister-
says
Article analysing differences between the EU and US that may alter the benefits and risks of fracking
http://europeandaily.com/business/2012/10/29/should-europe-be-fracking
Article discussing benefits of fracking in the EU and also outlines steps being taken in relation to fracking in
many Member States
http://www.lexology.com/library/detail.aspx?g=17a8ac21-2dc1-486e-b54c-be2419733d09
Opinions
Link showing all articles on fracking available on euractiv
http://www.euractiv.com/topics/fracking
Link to all Guardian articles in relation to fracking to see current updates on fracking
http://www.theguardian.com/environment/shale-gas
The Economist debates pros and cons of fracking
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b0q_n63X438
Video outlining public opposition to fracking
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kqrVzuTzJYg
Article outlining the proposed future of Europe’s Energy supply including fracking http://www.german-
times.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=43500&Itemid=27

Opinion piece on the recommendations published by the EU
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-01-13/eu-to-offer-minimum-guidelines-for-fracking-shale-draft-shows.html
Questions and Answers on the shale gas initiative
http://europa.eu/rapid/press-release_MEMO-14-42_en.html

Although the deadline for concluding Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) is set for October
2014, few African states have concluded such agreements with the EU. How should the EU proceed
in order to maintain trade links with African states?
Lea Schiewer (DE)
A. Relevance and Explanation of the Problem
The discussion about the Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) re-ignites a well-known dilemma of the
European Union: balancing its own internal market, whilst also meeting its historic responsibility to aid the
economic growth of less developed countries.
The negotiating position of these countries, known as the African Caribbean Pacific (ACP) group, has changed
since 1975 when the EU, formerly the European Community, granted them preferential access to its market. The
trade relations between the EU and the ACP need to be defined for when Cotonou Agreement expires in 2020.
Since 2002, the EU has strived to reach a mutual agreement with the different African bargaining blocs. However,
due to internal differences within these blocs only a few interim EPAs have been signed as a temporary
solution26
. Some countries, such as Nigeria, even refused to sign at all27
. With the deadline for concluding the
EPAs set for October 2014, the need for a redefinition of Euro-African trade relations has become even more
pressing.
B. Key conflicts
Reforming the trade relations between the EU and ACP countries involves multiple conflicting interests. Some
African countries, such as Ghana, object to the EPAs as they believe these agreements only encourage trade
with the EU but not amongst the countries themselves28
. These critics complain that the vastly different economic
conditions of each country are not taken into consideration. Hence, even though the EPAs aim to provide the
right conditions for trade and investment, opponents consider them to be counter-productive to regional
26 Overview about the current situation regarding the EPA negotiations:
http://trade.ec.europa.eu/doclib/docs/2009/september/tradoc_144912.pdf
27 Article about Nigeria’s refusal to sign the EPA: http://www.cnbcafrica.com/news/western-africa/2014/04/01/nigeria-rejects-eu-
partnership/
28 Article about the EU pressuring African countries to complete the EPA: http://www.theguardian.com/global-
development/2013/apr/23/eu-pressures-african-countries-trade
Committee on International
Trade

integration29
. Thus, the extent of the liberalisation remains a contested topic.
Furthermore, several African governments claim that the EU established
special bargaining blocs for the EPA negotiations instead of communicating
with the already existing regional economic groupings30
.Some, including the
secretary general of the ACP group, argue that the fixed deadline forces
countries to ratify potentially counterproductive interim EPAs31
. Others even
claim the negotiations are not on an equal footing32
.
C. Key questions
 Are the negotiations between the EU and the bargaining blocs on a
level playing field? If not, what can be done to change this?
 What are the benefits of an EPA, for the EU and its partner?
 What are the terms causing some countries to refuse consenting to the
EPA?
 What are the short-term and long-term consequences of an EPA?
 What role does the WTO play in the negotiations?
 To what extent does the economic situation of a country influence its
bargaining position?
Whilst the European Commission negotiates on behalf of the EU, the African
countries are represented by five bargaining blocs, which consist of
geographically close countries33
. Therefore, the already existing regional
29 Article about how new trade pact threaten regional unity: http://www.un.org/africarenewal/magazine/october-2008/new-
trade-pacts-threaten-regional-unity
30 Ibid
31 See footnote 3
32 Article about trade talks between the EU and Africa: http://www.theguardian.com/global-development/poverty-
matters/2012/jul/12/trade-talks-europe-africa
33 There are seven groups in total, five of which are in Africa. The groups are: West Africa, Central Africa, Eastern and Southern
Africa (ESA), Eastern African Community (EAC), South African Development Community (SADC), Caribbean, and Pacific:
http://ec.europa.eu/trade/policy/countries-and-regions/regions/africa-caribbean-pacific/
Trade

economic groups are dismissed during the negotiations34
. Socio-economic differences between the countries of
one bargaining bloc, as well as individually arranged accords with the EU, make it difficult for each of these
groups to harmonise their interests and find a common position. This has already led to some refusals of EPAs
by economically stronger countries such as South Africa, Namibia, Angola and Nigeria. 35
The World Trade Organisation (WTO)36
is one of the most important institutions to deal with international
economic problems. It ensures the compliance of its main trading principles, such as the “Most-Favoured-Nation”
principle and the “Generalised System of Preferences“. The WTO has drawn attention to the fact that, despite
the reciprocal and non-discriminatory nature of the EPAs, the EU’s preferential treatment of the African export
is not compatible with these global trade liberalisation regimes37
.
Signed in 2000, with a duration of 20 years, the Cotouno Agreement38
is the most comprehensive partnership
agreement between the 79 ACP developing countries and the EU – it is the base for the EPA negotiations. Its
main objectives are the reduction of poverty, a sustainable development and the gradual integration of the
ACP countries into the world economy.
E. Key Terms
Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) - The main objective of these tailor-made trade and development
agreements between the EU and African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) regions is the integration of these
countries into the global economy by promoting trade and sustainable development between the two groupings.
In order to do so, the EU (so far unilaterally) amongst others fully opened up its market to ACP countries, whilst
allowing its partners a certain time frame to emulate.
Interim Economic Partnership Agreement - An interim EPA is a preliminary agreement for countries which did
fully not agree to the terms of the comprehensive EPA, but did not want to lose their “Duty-free, quota-free”
access to the European market. This preferential access otherwise would have been restricted with the expiration
of the Cotonou agreement. Interim EPAs cover only goods, market access into the EU and development
34 Article about how new trade pacts threaten regional unity: http://www.un.org/africarenewal/magazine/october-2008/new-
trade-pacts-threaten-regional-unity
35 http://www.southerntimesafrica.com/news_article.php?id=7137&title=the%20elusive%20epa&type=69
36 General information about the WTO: http://www.wto.org/english/res_e/doload_e/inbr_e.pdf
37 See footnote 9
38 General information about the Cotouno Agreement: http://ec.europa.eu/europeaid/where/acp/overview/cotonou-
agreement/
Trade

cooperation39
.
Principle of reciprocity - Unlike the Lomé Convention40
1975 which laid the foundation of today’s asymmetric
trade relations, the EPAs are based on the principle of reciprocity. In order to maintain their free access to the
European market, ACP Countries need to equally open up their markets for EU exports.
“Most-Favoured-Nation“ principle - Under the WTO agreements, which succeeded the General Agreement on
Tariffs and Trade (GATT) in 1995, countries cannot normally discriminate between their trading partners. This
means a country granting another a facourable status (such as a lower customs duty rate for one of its products),
has to do the same for all other WTO members.
Generalised System of Preferences (GSP) - The GSP allows WTO members to lower their custom duties for
developing countries’ exports, without the obligation to grant this preferential treatment to developed countries.
Nevertheless, many developing countries‘ goods, especially processed products which would be competitive in
western markets, continue to be excluded from the GPS.
F. Links
Background:
General information about the EPAs by the European Commission:
http://ec.europa.eu/trade/policy/countries-and-regions/development/economic-partnerships/
Overview about the EPA negotiations by the European Commission:
http://trade.ec.europa.eu/doclib/docs/2009/september/tradoc_144912.pdf
Benefits of the EPAs by the European Commission:
http://trade.ec.europa.eu/doclib/docs/2013/april/tradoc_151010.pdf
Information about the regional integration in Africa by the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United
Nations:
http://www.fao.org/docrep/004/y4793e/y4793e0a.htm
Video interview with the Seychelles’ Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs about the EPA:
http://www.acp.int/content/featured-video-why-interim-epa-was-right-seychelles-sec-state-foreign-affairs
Opinion by different media and political institutions:
39 http://www.un.org/africarenewal/magazine/october-2008/new-trade-pacts-threaten-regional-unity#sthash.ndzoyw5u.dpuf
40 General information about the Lomé Convention http://ec.europa.eu/europeaid/where/acp/overview/lome-
convention/lomeitoiv_en.htm
Trade

Video about Ghana’s dilemma on whether to sign or not to sign the EPA by PressTV News:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qq_FXqxeJ_c (Part I)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvwIlLmKPSA (Part II)
Podcast about the state of play of the EPA negotiations by the European Centre for Development Policy
Management:
http://ecdpm.org/multimedia/economic-partnership-agreements-epas-whats-gone-wrong/
Interview with H.E Dr. Mohammed Chambas, Secretary General of the ACP Group of States by the
International Centre for Trade and Sustainable Development:
http://www.ictsd.org/bridges-news/trade-negotiations-insights/news/an-interview-with-he-dr-mohammed-
chambas-secretary
Interview with the Commissioner of Trade by the International Centre for Trade and Sustainable Development:
http://www.ictsd.org/bridges-news/trade-negotiations-insights/news/an-interview-with-eu-trade-commissioner-
karel-de-gucht
The Guardian article about the EU pressuring African countries to complete the EPA:
http://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2013/apr/23/eu-pressures-african-countries-trade
Article about the concerns of the civil society regarding the EPA negotiations by by the Africa Section of the
United Nations Department of Public Information:
http://www.un.org/africarenewal/magazine/july-2007/africans-fear-‘ruin’-europe-trade-talks
Infograph about the EPA bargaining blocs by the European Centre for Development Policy Management:
http://africaeu2014.blogspot.de/2013/11/trade-talks-set-to-disrupt-africa.html
Trade

In light of the Turkish government’s response to the protests in Gezi 2013, how should the EU
proceed regarding Turkey’s accession negotiations?
Lukas Rosenkranz (DE)
A. Relevance and Explanation of the Topic
‘If we have to, we could tell them ‘Get lost, kid!’ - said the former Turkish Minister for EU Affairs when describing
Turkey’s relations with the EU after the Gezi Park protests in 201341
. This statement exemplifies how the protests
and the following disturbances in EU-Turkey relations mark a changing point in Turkey’s accession to the EU.
Some commentators see the events around the Gezi protests as a turning point for Turkey’s domestic and
foreign policies42
. Fuelled by brutal police responses to demonstrations against the re-development of the Gezi
Park in Istanbul in May 2013, protests soon spread out to other cities and evolved into a movement which
questioned Prime Minister Erdogan and his party’s, the AKP, power. The government’s reaction to the protests,
including the use of violence against the protesters and increasing censorship of websites such as Twitter or
Youtube, raised major concerns about Turkey’s accession to the EU43
. Even before these protests many felt
membership talks, which started in 2005, were cooling down as no new chapters were opened for negotiation
between 2010 and 201344
. Some are now questioning Turkey’s ability and willingness to meet the political, social
and economic criteria set by the EU for accession45
.
B. Key Conflicts
The Gezi protests demonstrate the current tensions within Turkish society: mainly between secular groups, which
are cautious about the AKP’s appeal to religious motives, and religious groups, which support the party’s route
of economic liberalisation whilst increasingly rooting social politics in Islamic faith46
. However, the protests also
highlighted tensions between EU Member States and Institutions over Turkish membership47
. Some argue that
41 http://bit.ly/bagiseuremarks
42 http://bit.ly/PISMreport
43http://bit.ly/aljazeerainternetlawsturkey
44 The Community acquis communautaire is the body of common rights and obligations which bind all the Member States
together within the European Union. Prospective Member States, such as Turkey, must adopt this acquis which is divided into 35
‘Chapters’
45 http://bit.ly/EPreaction
46 For a more in-depth analysis, see this article: http://bit.ly/turkishsocietyclash
47 You can find an overview of some of these arguments here: http://bit.ly/TurkeyEUprocon
Committee on Foreign Affairs

Turkey has serious problems with adopting EU principles such as the rule of law or the freedom of press, using
the government’s response to the protests as evidence, so they call for an end to membership talks48
. In contrast,
other EU representatives believe that ceasing accession talks would weaken the EU’s influence on Turkey to
further pursue democratisation and liberalisation. Balancing the carrot-and-stick approach of enlargement is a
major challenge for Turkey’s accession since the Turkish government has openly rejected any attempts by the
EU to influence Turkey’s domestic affairs49
.
C. Key Questions
 What are Turkey’s and the EU’s motives for and interests in pursuing membership talks? Is Turkey
moving away from the EU?
 How can the EU secure its interests in Turkey whilst promoting its own values and principles? Are there
any alternatives to Turkish membership?
 How can the EU further support Turkey’s democratisation and liberalisation without alienating its
government?
 What measures can the EU take to strengthen the Turkish civil society?
The European Commission is in charge of holding accession talks and publishing reports on accession progress.
However, Member States have the final decision on accepting any new members50
. Despite some Member States
being critical of Turkish membership, the EU recently opened a new Chapter for negotiations51
. Furthermore EU-
Turkish cooperation within NATO has increased due to the riots in Syria, Turkey's neighbour.
The Turkish government and the AKP treated EU accession as a national priority upon taking office in 2002.
This focus has, however, shifted in recent years, with Turkey trying to establish closer bonds with other
neighbouring countries52
. The AKP's rule has also caused a division within Turkish society, as shown by the
protests before the recent local elections53
.
48 http://bit.ly/FTGermanztohalttalks
49 http://bit.ly/EUinterference
50 http://bit.ly/T6YwVD
51 http://bit.ly/reutersgermany
52 http://bit.ly/FATurkeyMiddleEast
53 http://bit.ly/guardianlocalelections

E. Key Terms
Copenhagen Criteria - These are the essential conditions all candidate countries must satisfy to become a
Member State54
, including political and economic conditions as well as the ability to accept the acquis. The
EU confirmed in 2004 that Turkey meets all political criteria.
Article 49 of the Treaty on European Union (TEU) - This sets out the procedure for a state to apply to become
a member of the Union55
.
EU-Enlargement - The enlargement policy defines the accession process by which new Member States can
join. It is seen as one the key measures in stabilising and democratising EU's neighbouring states.
AKP - Justice and Development Party, both PM Erdogan and President Gül are members. The social-
conservative party has held office in Turkey since 2002.
F. Links
Background Information
Explanation of the accession process
http://bit.ly/accessionprocesslong
Elaboration on accession criteria
http://bit.ly/accessionprocess
The official EU platform for information on enlargement
http://bit.ly/enlargementplatform
Summary of Turkey's official positions towards EU accession by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
http://bit.ly/turkishforeignaffairs
Documentary on the Gezi Park Protests
http://bit.ly/gezidocumentary
Analysis
New York Times article analysing Turkey's move away from Europe http://bit.ly/nytturkeyturnsaway
Analysis of the long term chances of Turkish accession
http://bit.ly/HarvardReviewTurkey
54 http://ec.europa.eu/enlargement/policy/glossary/terms/accession-criteria_en.htm
55 http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=OJ:C:2012:326:FULL&from=EN

Opinion
Article arguing that Turkey is still on its way to becoming a mature democracy
http://bit.ly/democratisationoptimist
Article discussing how the EU could help Turkey's further democratisation http://bit.ly/postgezirelations
Video of a debate with the Turkish Ambassador to the EU on the future of EU-Turkey relations
http://bit.ly/debaterelations
Video from Al Jazeera on Turkey's bid in 2010
http://bit.ly/aljeinsidestory

Despite the 2011 Directive on Human Trafficking and the 2012 EU Strategy towards the Eradication of
Trafficking in Human Beings, human trafficking remains the slavery of our times. How can Member
States work together to tackle human trafficking more effectively in the EU?
Kieran McNulty (IE)
Human trafficking is seen as one of the most profitable criminal activities worldwide, netting an estimated $32
billion in profit for criminals a year56
. Hundreds of thousands of people are trafficked to or within the EU each
year57
. These people are trafficked mostly for sexual exploitation, but also for forced labour, the removal of
organs, and other criminal activities.
The vast majority of those trafficked (68%) are women58
. Over 60% of victims of human trafficking come from
within the EU itself, most notably Romania and Bulgaria. Trafficking into the EU occurs mainly from China and
Nigeria, but also South America. Victims are lured into leaving their home country by promises of lucrative jobs
elsewhere. Many are being recruited online. The EU, despite some sizable efforts in the last decade (most
recently with the Directive on Human Trafficking) has a long way to go to tackle this problem effectively.
B. Key conflicts
Harmonising Member State law on the issue of human trafficking has proved difficult. Whilst the directive was
expected to be fully implemented by Member States in April 2013, this has not come to pass in several countries
such as Cyprus and Germany59
.
The strategy adopted in 2012 has a five-pronged approach to dealing with the problem (see below), but it
proposes measures some may see as unrealistic. Some countries have targeted the problem and cracked down
on the traffickers themselves, but taken as a whole, the amount of trafficking stopped by EU authorities is
minimal. The amount of traffickers convicted fell in 2013, signifying the failure of some efforts60
.
56 http://ec.europa.eu/dgs/home-affairs/e-library/docs/infographics/thb/thb_en.pdf page 6.
59 http://www.dw.de/human-trafficking-the-eus-dirty-secret/a-17412036
60 http://ec.europa.eu/commission_2010-2014/malmstrom/news/what-written/archives/2013/04/20130415_en.htm
Committee on Human Rights

A serious problem is how victims are treated; they are often reduced to criminals, and not given the support
they need. Children are especially in need of support - either financially, or to be reunited with their families.
Furthermore, it is difficult to identify victims of trafficking in order to assist them - most statistics refer to
‘presumed’ victims61
.
C. Key questions
 How can the EU fully achieve the goals established in the 2012-2016 strategy and the 2011 Directive?
 How can victims of human trafficking be protected, rather than prosecuted?
 How can data of victims be better obtained?
 Is there a one-size-fits-all solution for this problem, or should Member States be free to adopt differing
methods to combat trafficking?
 Are traffickers being adequately targeted?
 How can the EU prevent the organised crime which is so present in trafficking?
61 http://ec.europa.eu/dgs/home-affairs/what-is-new/news/news/2013/docs/20130415_thb_stats_report_en.pdf page 22.

The Directive previously mentioned sets out provisions on victim protection, including national mechanisms for
early identification and assistance and it supports the principle of non-punishment for petty crimes committed
by victims. The 2012-2016 Strategy identifies five areas which will tackle the issue62
: 1) Better identifying and
protecting the victims; 2) Increasing prosecution of traffickers; 3) Development of child protection systems; 4)
Setting up national law-enforcement units on human trafficking; 5) The creation of Joint Investigation Teams.
The strategy encourages the establishment of a European Business Coalition, which would co-ordinate
approaches to stop trafficking amongst companies.
GRETA, the Group of Experts on Trafficking in Human Beings, was set up in 2003. They consult on matters
relating to the issue of human trafficking. The Palermo Protocol was a significant UN declaration on how
human trafficking should be targeted.
Many NGOs are working in countries to target high-risk groups, such as the work of Sauchastie in Bulgaria with
the Roma in the city of Varna63
.
E. Key Terms
Human Trafficking - The illegal movement of people, typically for the purposes of forced labour or commercial
sexual exploitation
Sexual exploitation - It is the abuse of a position of vulnerability, differential power, or trust for sexual purposes.
Organised crime – A term which categorises transnational, national, or local groupings of highly centralised
enterprises run by criminals, who intend to engage in illegal activity, most commonly for monetary profit
Palermo Protocols – The Palermo protocols are three protocols that were adopted by the United Nations to
tackle the problem of human trafficking.
Directive 2011/36/EU – The 2011 EU Directive on Human Trafficking
62 http://ec.europa.eu/home-affairs/doc_centre/crime/docs/trafficking_in_human_beings_eradication-2012_2016_en.pdf
63
http://www.coe.int/t/dghl/monitoring/trafficking/Docs/Gen_Report/GRETA_2013_17_3rdGenRpt_en.pdf page 39

European Business Coalition – A co-ordination of various businesses and organisations to focus on preventing
human trafficking
GRETA - the Group of Experts on Action against Trafficking in Human Beings; they consult with and report to
the EU on matters of trafficking. They report on each Member State’s efforts to stop the problem.
F. Links
Background
Graphs on the essential information on human trafficking in Europe
http://ec.europa.eu/dgs/home-affairs/e-library/docs/infographics/thb/thb_en.pdf
The rights of victims of human trafficking
http://ec.europa.eu/dgs/home-affairs/e-library/docs/thb_victims_rights/thb_victims_rights_en.pdf
Short news report on trafficking
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eJffl-OG-Ck
Analysis
Article on efforts to stop prostitution
http://www.thejournal.ie/readme/human-trafficking-sexual-exploitation-pimps-ireland-1134297-Oct2013/
Documentary on sex trafficking
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ClOpws3XgwY
Measures Already in Place
The 2011 Directive on Human Trafficking 2011/36/EU
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/LexUriServ.do?uri=OJ:L:2011:101:0001:0011:EN:PDF
EU Strategy towards the Eradication of Trafficking in Human Beings 2012-2016
http://ec.europa.eu/home-affairs/doc_centre/crime/docs/trafficking_in_human_beings_eradication-
2012_2016_en.pdf
Opinion
Recent article on human trafficking
http://www.dw.de/human-trafficking-the-eus-dirty-secret/a-17412036
Opinion article on the link between human trafficking and prostitution
http://www.fairobserver.com/region/europe/prostitution-human-trafficking-middle-road-regulation/
Academic article on human trafficking
http://scholarlycommons.law.northwestern.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1167&context=njihr

Despite the EU’s Common Policy on Arms Exports and the United Nation’s Arms Trade Treaty (ATT),
Member States continue to export arms to states with poor human rights records, such as China and
Saudi Arabia. How can the EU ensure the Common Policy is better enforced?
Muhammad Oleolo (UK)
Following the overthrow of Muammar Gaddafi and the discovery of the stockpile of European-made weapons
used by his regime64
, international pressure groups such as Amnesty garnered support65
across the globe for the
implementation of the first ever UN Arms Trade Treaty (ATT). The ATT comes at a time when EU Member States
have collectively joined Russia and the US as powerful exporters in the global arms trade, licensing a record
$39 billion of Arms to the Middle East last year66
.
Between 2011 and 2012, amidst the Arab Spring, there were record sales to Egypt by EU Member States67
; yet,
Member States have still heavily criticised Russia's supply of weapons to Syria68
. By contrast, in January 2014, the
Defence Acquisition Program Agency (DAPA) of South Korea's Ministry of National Defence cancelled a shipment
of 1.6 million gas canisters to Bahrain69
because of Bahrain’s recent human rights violations. This has set an
important precedent for the EU to follow: putting human rights ahead of profit and political alliances70
.
Amnesty International believes that the inaction towards the ATT and the 43 absent signatures, mainly from
countries with poor human rights records, are contributing to deaths around the world71
.
64 Libyans say China and Europe sent arms to Gaddafi: http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/09/05/us-libya-china-
idUSTRE7840A920110905
65 http://www.amnesty.org/en/campaigns/control-arms
66 http://oneworld.org/2014/01/28/european-arms-sales-to-middle-east-hit-record-high
67 http://www.caat.org.uk/media/press-releases/2014-01-28.php
68 http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/syria-buying-mig31s-mig35s-for-1-billion-03391/
69 http://www.npwj.org/ICC/Bahrain-NPWJ-and-NRPTT-commend-South-Korea-suspending-tear-gas-supplies.html
70 http://www.opendemocracy.net/can-europe-make-it/andrew-smith/end-hypocrisy-of-european-arms-deals-in-middle-east
71 http://www.amnesty.org/en/news/un-atrocities-fuelled-inaction-arms-trade-treaty-promises-2014-04-01
Committee on Security
and Defence

B. Key Conflicts
One dilemma lies between the EU’s desire to maintain profitable relations with its trading partners through
arms sales, whilst also acting as an organisation which promotes and preserves peace and human rights.
Furthermore there is the problem of how best to ensure Member States comply with the EU Common Policy72
and ATT when they also have alliances with non-EU states. Member States may feel a conflict of obligation
with the EU’s Common Policy and the ATT and their older obligations to countries to which they have been
selling arms73.
There could also be a clash between future EU regulation of the issue and the interests of non-EU countries.
China and Russia are both large military exporters (and abstaining countries74
), and could acquire deals where
the EU is reluctant to as Member States try to honour the ATT.
International relations may become strained as developing nations seeking to expand their military power may
feel restricted by trade blocks initiated as response to their domestic policy75
.
72
Under the title, ‘The respect of human rights in the country of final destination’, Criterion 2 of the EU Code of Conduct on Arms
Exports (1998) prevents the issue of arms when “proposed export might be used for internal repression”. The Code of Conduct is the
basis of the Common Policy on Arms Exports.
73 France supplied Arms to Saddam Hussein in 1999; a year after the Code of Conduct was introduced.
http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=8U_sWfvgToQC&pg=PA2&lpg=PA2&dq=french+arms+to+middle+east&source=bl&ots=1738
eq8tZq&sig=LE9qx6XmOTspR76k3uXKpIUYtu4&hl=en&sa=X&ei=xSyPU-
afPIjK0AWF2ICoBw&ved=0CHMQ6AEwCw#v=onepage&q=french%20arms%20to%20middle%20east&f=false
74 China and Russia were among 23 nations that abstained from voting for the Treaty http://gbtimes.com/world/un-sign-historical-
arms-trade-treaty-china-and-russia-abstain
75 Indonesia, for example, was the 5th arms importer in 2011, paying $2.1 Billion. More can be found here:
http://www.infoplease.com/world/statistics/arms-sales-developing-nations.html
and Defence

C. Key Questions
 Is the profit of the arms industry more important to the EU than promoting human rights?
 Do the ATT, the European Code of Conduct on Arms Exports and other attempts serve to legitimise the
sale of conventional weapons?
 Can EU Member States maintain positive relations with emerging powers while restricting trade to these
nations on moral grounds?
 Should Member States have to sacrifice their own interests in order to comply with EU legislation, and
how can the EU encourage Member States to do so?
 Is it possible to control the weapons-manufacture industry beyond present regulations?
 Should the ATT and EU Arms Policy be extended to cover both the domestic sale of conventional arms
and international trade?
and Defence

D. Key Actors and Measures in Place
The European Union has attempted to moderate the proliferation of arms to nations with human rights records
which are not in line with the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights or the Universal Declaration of Human Rights
(UDHR). The EU has competence in this area under Article 2(4) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European
Union (TFEU)76
, establishes the EU’s Common Foreign Security Policy (CFSP). Defence Contractors and their
manufacture and exports are supposed to be controlled by the European Union Code of Conduct on Arms
Exports.
The ATT is not yet in force, but there are other international measures controlling Military Exports. The Wassenaar
Arrangement77
is a multilateral export regime between 41 countries; China, Saudi Arabia, India and Syria and
many more developing countries did not sign it. There is also the Nuclear Suppliers Group78
, which controls
exports of material that can be applied to nuclear weaponry. The ATT aims to combat sales to governments
considered by human rights pressure groups and non-government organisations79
to have poor human rights
records, such as sales to Libya by EU Member States after the lifting of the arms embargo in 2004.
E. Key terms
EU Common Policy on Arms Exports – a shared policy within the EU, comprising mainly of the 1998 European
Union Code of Conduct on Arms Exports80
, this is a set of regulations which control the proliferation and export
of arms by EU Member States.
United Nations Arms Trade Treaty - a multilateral treaty, signed in April 2013, which aims to regulate the
international exchange of conventional weapons. The Treaty will not come into force until 50 states ratify it81
.
76 Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (competencies of the Union are defined in Articles 2-6)
http://europa.eu/pol/pdf/qc3209190enc_002.pdf#page=51
77 The Wassenaar Arrangement on the export controls for conventional arms and dual-use goods and technologies
http://cns.miis.edu/inventory/pdfs/wass.pdf
78 Nuclear Suppliers Group – origins, roles and activities
http://www.iaea.org/Publications/Documents/Infcircs/2012/infcirc539r5.pdf
79 For example Amnesty International http://www.amnesty.org.uk/tags/arms-trade-treaty#.U448p_ldWa8 and Oxfam
http://www.oxfam.org/en/campaigns/conflict/controlarms/why-we-need-global-arms-trade-treaty
80 http://ec.europa.eu/external_relations/cfsp/sanctions/codeofconduct.pdf, The Code of Conduct On Arms Export, explanation
of which can be found here http://eeas.europa.eu/non-proliferation-and-disarmament/arms-export-control/index_en.htm
81 Currently 32 of 118 signatory countries have ratified it.
and Defence

Conventional Weapons/Arms - weapons in wide use that are not considered weapons of mass destruction, for
example, handguns and (non-nuclear) rockets and missiles.
Defence Contractor - A company that manufactures military technology and weaponry. These are often privately
owned but have powerful ties to governments.
European Multilateral defence procurement (Sometimes knows as the European military-industrial complex) -
the collective cooperation between corporations and manufacturers in different European nations to supply
militaries with arms. For example, the manufacture of the 'Eurofighter Typhoon' which came into existence
through the joint effort of BAE systems, Airbus and Alenia Aermacchi.
Common Foreign Security Policy – One of the EU’s shared competences82
. The agreed foreign policy of the EU
mainly for security and defence purposes.
F. Links:
Background
Arms trade conflict is causing tension between Russia and the US
http://www.ibtimes.com/russian-arms-deals-us-scraps-plan-buy-15-russian-helicopters-amid-syrian-disagreement-
1472372
Who armed Gadafi? An editorial on EU arms exports to Libya
http://www.theguardian.com/news/datablog/2011/mar/01/eu-arms-exports-libya
Article about European Arms sales to the Middle East
http://www.ekklesia.co.uk/node/20070
Opinion
The EU’s support for a legally binding international arms trade treaty
http://www.consilium.europa.eu/uedocs/cmsUpload/016_09_EN_low.pdf
Reactions to the draft Treaty by North Korea, Iran and Syria https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Z1Klqyxxps
Video by Oxfam America explaining the importance of the ATT
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hTx_FKbAjSU
Campaign Against Arms Trade
http://www.caat.org.uk/media/press-releases/2014-04-03.php
82 Explanation of competences: http://ec.europa.eu/citizens-initiative/public/competences/faq
and Defence

Analysis
An Al Jazeera documentary investigating the issue of who profits from the arms trade
http://www.aljazeera.com/programmes/insidestory/2014/03/global-arms-trade-who-are-winners-
2014317181923890971.html
Video of Rep. Richard Hudson, discussion the opinion that the ATT is neither in agreement with US national
interest nor the constitution
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cWv-GN7p2LE
EU arms exports to Libya
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0AonYZs4MzlZbdGFBN1NWM0hrbFc0OWd1dDR2dUVfbnc&hl=en#gid=
0
Arms Sales to the Developing World
http://www.infoplease.com/world/statistics/arms-sales-developing-nations.html
and Defence

Member States have committed to promoting and protecting minority languages under the European
Charter for Regional or Minority Languages. With languages becoming increasingly important due to
globalisation, how should Member States protect minority languages whilst also promoting mobility
through different lingua francas?”
Juan Estheiman Amaya Camposeco (ES)
Language is the most external expression of our cultures and plays a major role in defining our personal
identity. The EU recognises 24 official languages within its current 28 Member States83
. This official recognition84
excludes a total of 63 official languages spoken by native Europeans and their minorities. When also taking
into account the languages of settled immigrants, some estimate that over 125 different languages are spoken
on a regular basis throughout Europe.
Languages represent an important cultural heritage not only for their speakers, but for humanity as a whole.
Nevertheless, according to the European Commission’s Euromosaic study85
, of the 48 recognised minority
languages in the EU, 23 had "limited" or "no" capability of survival and 12 other minority languages were labelled
as endangered.
The debate on languages goes beyond their preservation, as it extends to the practical consequences or benefits
of their usage. In a political union that is built on the principles of freedom of movement and trade, languages
play a major role in making these principles effective. Inter-communication across borders is only possible thanks
to the common linguistic grounds created by lingua francas86.
B. Key conflicts
The first problem, when discussing minority languages, is the lack of information on this matter. Most of the
information at a European level is outdated, reflected in the fact that the Euromosaic Study was conducted in
83 List of the 24 official languages of the EU: http://ec.europa.eu/languages/policy/language-policy/official_languages_en.htm
84 More information on language recognition can be found on this essay by McGill University professor Allan Patten:
http://www.princeton.edu/~apatten/languagepolicy_politicaltheory.pdf
85 The study identified the situation of languages, their use and their status at a European scale. The last European-wide update
took place in 1996. In 2004 and 2008 new information was only compiled for new entering Member states.
86 Please refer to section E for the definition.
Committee on Culture
and Education

1996. This leads us to a diffuse and inaccurate contextualisation of the issue. This lack of information is
perpetuated by the little or no interest shown by most Member States.
The Soviet Union dissolution in 1991 isolated large ethnic communities outside of their national borders.
Nationalistic attitudes, political disagreement and the lack of cooperation between neighbouring countries, have
put these isolated communities’ linguistic rights at stake. One clear example is the Hungarian community in
Slovakia. Ethnical Hungarians represent 10% of Slovakia’s total population. Nonetheless, the Slovak Language
Law, which was passed in 2009, restricts the use of any language except Slovak in public communications87
.
The lack of financial support from the European Commission caused the European Bureau for Lesser-Used
Languages to shut down in 201088
. Funding is one of the biggest challenges facing language supportive NGOs
and initiatives.
Regarding the promotion of an inter-European lingua franca, experts agree89
on the need for Member States’
national plans and legislation to have a unified coherent strategy that promotes multilingualism. However,
individual proficiency levels in a lingua franca which is different from their mother tongue vary between
Member States90
. This is one of the biggest obstacles for the implementation of a common linguistic strategy
across the EU.
87 Language rows between Slovakia and Hungary: http://www.economist.com/node/14140437
88 The European Bureau for Lesser-Used Languages (EBLUL) was a non-governmental organisation set up to promote linguistic
diversity and languages. It was founded in 1982 and discontinued in 2010. The organisation had close ties with both the European
Parliament and the Council of Europe, and was funded by the European Commission and local and regional governmental
organisations.
89 A New Framework Strategy for Multilingualism
90 According to The European Indicator of Language Competence: http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-
content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:52005DC0356&from=EN
and Education

C. Key questions
• What are the benefits of having a lingua franca?
• Should we promote minority languages over lingua francas or vice versa? Is it possible to respect both equally?
• How could we adapt our education systems for a multilingual population? Is this necessary?
• How does the lack of information and cooperation affect the preservation of minority languages?
• How could we make minority languages more visible?
Linguistic substitution and loss is more common amongst immigrant, indigenous and rural populations. This is
largely due to the low language prestige91 of these communities’ languages. Each country’s awareness and
acceptance of foreign languages are determined by the national education and integration strategies which
each Member State follows. This is because Member States have complete competence over the implementation
of linguistic policies and education in their domestic legislation92
.
91 Please refer to Section E for the definition.
92 See Article 6 of the Treaty on European Union (TEU) and Title XII in the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU):
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=OJ:C:2012:326:FULL&from=EN
and Education

Every Member States’ legislation should respect the linguistic rights enshrined in: Article 3 of the Universal
Declaration of Human Rights, Articles 21 and 22 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union,
the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages93
and the Framework Convention for the Protection
of National Minorities94
. However, the example of the above Slovak Language Law95
has shown that this is not
the case.
E. Key Terms
Regional or minority languages96
- Languages traditionally used by part of the population of a state that are
not dialects of official languages of the state, languages of migrants or artificially created languages.
Lingua franca - A lingua franca is a common language used by different individuals to communicate between
each other, when they do not share a mother tongue. A lingua franca is also known as a vehicular language.
Official language - A language that is given a recognised legal status in a particular country, state, or other
jurisdiction (such as supranational institutions). Typically a country's official language refers to the language
that’s used within its public administration.
Language prestige - The widespread perception of a language’s status, defined by the combination of three
factors (socioeconomic status, demographic, and institutional support), that directly affect its maintenance and
recognition.
Multilingualism – This refers to both a person’s ability to use several languages and the co-existence of different
language communities in one geographical area.
Language legitimacy - The combination of legal, institutional and identity arguments that justify a language’s
link it to a specific territory.
F. Links
93 A European Treaty adopted in 1992 under the auspices of the Council of Europe to protect historical, regional and minority
languages in Europe.
94 Multilateral treaty of the Council of Europe aimed at protecting the rights of minorities. It came into effect in 1998 and is
currently ratified by 39 Member States of the Council of Europe.
95 Inside article from The EU Observer on the Slovak Language Law: http://euobserver.com/opinion/28440
96 As defined in Article 1 of the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages:
http://conventions.coe.int/Treaty/en/Treaties/Html/148.htm
and Education

Background Material
Lost in Translation: Linguistic Minorities in the European Union
http://www.du.edu/korbel/hrhw/researchdigest/minority/Translation.pdf
Hamburg University: Linguistic Diversity and New Minorities in Europe
http://www.coe.int/t/dg4/linguistic/Source/GogolinEN.pdf
Respecting Linguistic Diversity in the European Union
http://books.google.es/books?id=H2-
IPFxpDkEC&pg=PA47&lpg=PA47&dq=language+statistics+european+union&source=bl&ots=6Ys0-oRBD-
&sig=B6RQ7U7rbjiqy5O7dVN8Xl7l8G0&hl=en&sa=X&ei=2HW3UpKdD-
nR0QXZgYHYDw&ved=0CIQBEOgBMAk#v=onepage&q=language%20statistics%20european%20union&f=false
The European Charter of Fundamental Rights
http://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/LexUriServ.do?uri=OJ:C:2010:083:0389:0403:en:PDF
Framework Convention for the Protection of National Minorities
European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages
Issue analysis
Independent research inform on Minority Language Laws in the EU
http://www.ciemen.cat/mercator/pdf/simp-alok.pdf
Protocol of the legislation passed by the Swedish government to make Swedish the official language in Sweden,
and how to relate to minority languages
http://www.regeringen.se/sb/d/108/a/85634
The Euromosaic Study Comparative Summary
http://bookshop.europa.eu/en/euromosaic-pbC29295845/downloads/C2-92-95-845-EN-
C/C29295845ENC_001.pdf;pgid=y8dIS7GUWMdSR0EAlMEUUsWb0000W-o2lTFI;sid=KlE_2PkKR-
I_z7csdjuhf5svZzIhqlvJVgE=?FileName=C29295845ENC_001.pdf&SKU=C29295845ENC_PDF&CatalogueNumber=C2-92-95-
845-EN-C
Opinions
A lecture on multilingualism and language legitimacy by Berkley University professor
https://education.azpm.org/p/azconnection/2012/4/24/1650-authenticity-and-legitimacy-in-multilingual-second-
language-acquisition/
and Education

With the rise in popularity of extreme right parties in several Member States, how should the EU
respond to these parties whilst continuing to promote freedom of speech and democracy?
Olivier Lanoo (BE)
A. Relevance and Explanation
The European Parliament (EP) elections in 2014 saw an increase in elected MEPs from far right parties97
. The
Italian Lega Nord, the Austrian FPÖ, the French FN, the Dutch PVV and the Belgian VB will have a new far-
right eurosceptic fraction in the EP. In three Member States, namely Denmark, France and the United Kingdom,
far right groups became the biggest representatives of their countries in the EP. Some believe that this shows
that far right parties can no longer be ignored98
.
These far right parties often come with xenophobic principles, which can result in discrimination, violence and
radicalism. Xenophobia threatens the core of our European society, going against the EU’s motto of “United in
Diversity”. With an increase in euroscepticism in recent years, these far right parties have been gaining popularity
in the polls.
The EU and all its Member States are founded on democracy and promote human rights which include freedom
of speech99
. We must maintain these democratic values whilst simultaneously tackling those parties which have
the potential to threaten other values which the EU has always promoted.
B. Key Conflicts
The economic crisis of 2008 has often been named as one of the important reasons for the rise of far right
parties100
. However, following the recent EP elections, those countries with high numbers of far right MEPs
97 From 38 to 54 out of a total of 751 seats
98 See Boris Johnson’s article http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/10855860/European-elections-2014-This-is-one-
peasants-revolt-that-Brussels-cant-just-brush-aside.html and David Cameron’s comments that the EU is “too big and too bossy”
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-27589075
99 As shown by Article 2 of the Treaty on the European Union http://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-
100 Publication on reason of the success of far right
http://cms.horus.be/files/99935/MediaArchive/publications/20060_Publication_Far_right_EN_LR.pdf
Committee on Civil Liberties,
Justice and Home Affairs I

arguably endured the crisis relatively well. For example, Denmark and Austria have some of the lowest
unemployment rates of Europe but still far right parties have gained a lot of support101
.
Migration has a positive impact on the cultural richness of a country and its economic growth in the long
term102
. Some disagree with this, and believe in a more traditional and restricted perception of European identity.
They blame immigrants for the failure of our social security systems, for the rapid population growth and accuse
them of exploiting welfare programs103
.
Far right parties are legitimate political groups. Their socio-economic or climate policies, for example, deserve
to be heard. What should not be tolerated is the spreading of hatred and the spurring of discrimination. The
EU and Member States must find a way of balancing such divergent views, whilst maintaining pluralism,
democracy and core EU values.
101 http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/monkey-cage/wp/2014/05/30/the-far-right-in-the-2014-european-elections-of-
earthquakes-cartels-and-designer-fascists/
102 OECD video explaining the economic value of migration
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rDyhXrXVBbA
103Right wing extremism with a clear explanation of the role of immigrants in this
http://library.fes.de/pdf-files/do/08338.pdf
Figure 2: Countries where far right parties
held the biggest share of the votes at the
2014 European Parliament elections.

C. Key Questions
 Why are far right parties becoming more popular across the EU? Is it solely because of immigration
laws?
 How can the EU tackle xenophobia? Should it be accepted as a legitimate political opinion following
the results of the 2014 EP elections?
 Is there a link between the current economic climate and the rise of far right parties?
 How can we safeguard the democratic values of the EU, like freedom of speech, whilst simultaneously
making a stand against ideas which undermine those values?
D. Key actors and Measures Already in Place
Human rights have been enshrined in several pieces of legislation. The EU Charter of Fundamental Rights, made
binding under the Lisbon Treaty, states the rights EU citizens can expect104
. In addition, Articles 9 and 10 of the
Treaty of the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) state that every citizen has fundamental rights and
should be equal to its fellow citizens.
The key piece of EU legislation for combating discrimination on the grounds of racial or ethnic origin and for
giving effect to the principle of equal treatment is the Racial Equality Directive, adopted in 2000. To accompany
it there is the Employment Equality Framework Directive, a major part of EU labour law which aims to combat
discrimination on any ground in the workplace.
Beyond the EU, there is European Convention on Human Rights, under the Council of Europe, which protects
human rights where the EU Charter cannot105
. Under the Council of Europe there is also the European Commission
against Racism and Intolerance which focuses on human rights and combating racism106
.
104Details on the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights http://ec.europa.eu/justice/fundamental-rights/charter/index_en.htm
105 The Council of Europe is not an EU body, although many of its members are also EU Member States
106Website of the ECRI http://www.coe.int/t/dghl/monitoring/ecri/default_en.asp

E. Key Terms
Xenophobia - Intense or irrational dislike or fear of people from other countries.
Radicalisation - the act or process of making (a person, belief demands, etc) more radical or favouring of
extreme or fundamental changes in political, economic, or social conditions, institutions, habits of mind.
Far right politics - the more extreme supporters or advocates of social, political, or economic conservatism or
reaction, based generally on a belief that things are better left unchanged.
Euroscepticism - the body of criticism of the European Union, and opposition to the process of political
European integration, existing throughout the political spectrum.
Multiculturalism - the preservation of different cultures or cultural identities with a unified society, as a state or
nation.
F. Links
Background
Paper on how to counter far-right extremism
http://www.strategicdialogue.org/PPN_Working_Paper_-_Countering_Far_Right_Extremism_FINAL.pdf
Summary of EU legislation on Immigration, Integration and Employment
http://europa.eu/legislation_summaries/other/c10611_en.htm
News video on Right wing radical network grows in Europe
http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xiqppv_right-wing-radical-network-grows-in-europe_news
General Policy Recommendations by the Council of Europe on Racism and Intolerance
http://www.coe.int/t/dghl/monitoring/ecri/activities/GeneralThemes_en.asp
Analysis
Paper with a focus on populism on the internet
http://www.demos.co.uk/files/Demos_OSIPOP_Book-web_03.pdf?1320601634
Discussion of Euroscepticism in right-wing parties
http://essay.utwente.nl/65024/1/Schneider_BA_MB.pdf

Overview and analysis of far right at the recent European elections
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/monkey-cage/wp/2014/05/30/the-far-right-in-the-2014-european-
elections-of-earthquakes-cartels-and-designer-fascists/
Analysis of populist parties in Europe and how they fit in our democracies
http://ec.europa.eu/justice/events/assises-justice-
2013/files/contributions/24.europeanhumanistfederationtheeuandthechallengeofextremismandpopulism_ehf_en.p
df
Opinion
Article discussion how to tackle far right populism
http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2014/feb/13/european-far-right-on-the-rise-how-to-tackle

Non-discrimination is a core principle of the European Union, and yet there remains considerable
discrimination against the Roma community across Member States. What more can the EU do to
eliminate this discrimination?
Sophie Duffield (UK)
A. Relevance and Explanation of the Problem
Roma communities exist all across the continent, yet the reports of segregation, discrimination and racism
seldom differ from country to country. Violence and harassment is widespread, with authorities often excusing
attacks on Roma communities. Statements from EU officials have at times suggested that Roma people were
to blame for their own exclusion107
.
In April 2014, a European Commission Report identified that the segregation of Roma children in schools remains
a key challenge; frequent movement of Roma families can also hinder schooling. Insufficient education can
also be linked to the employment gap between Roma and non-Roma, which is not narrowing. Furthermore,
it has been reported that 90% of Europe’s Roma population live in poverty108
. This is demonstrated by the fact
that Roma communities often live in substandard housing, with no access to water or electricity109
.
In order to fight discrimination against the Roma community, the issues relating to social exclusion must
therefore also be addressed.
B. Key Conflicts
The key conflicts of the issue include the right of all EU citizens to free movement, compared with the often
negative reactions of local communities when there is an influx of Roma people110
. This is a particular problem
for the countries where Roma populations are increasing. This immigration can in many cases be attributed to
the poor conditions for Roma communities in their country of origin.
107 Comment made on 13th February 2014 by Viviane Reding, European Commissioner on Justice, Fundamental Rights and
Citizenship, when talking about the problems associated with free movement within the EU “Let me name the problem: the
problem are the Roma people”.
108 April 2014, Amnesty International, ‘“We Ask for Justice”: Europe’s Failure to Protect Roma from Racist Violence’.
109 See the Euroform report on ‘Living conditions of the Roma’ (2012), Executive Summary,
www.eurofound.europa.eu/pubdocs/2012/02/en/1/EF1202EN.pdf
110 Such a reaction is discussed in an interview with David Blunkett in this article from the Telegraph in 2013
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/immigration/10442352/Roma-migrants-could-cause-riots-in-cities-warns-Blunkett.html
Justice and Home Affairs II

The expulsion of Roma communities from illegal settlements is common111
; however, this can be contrasted
with the duty of a Member State to provide adequate housing for its citizens112
. Often Roma people have no
choice except to settle in illegal housing, and upon expulsion no provisions are made for them. In contrast,
some argue that Roma communities prefer to live in segregated areas.
A key issue is the perception that Roma communities are responsible for increased crime rates113
, versus the
argument that poverty and marginalisation has left them with no choice but to resort to crime. This perception
can contribute towards to discrimination of Roma communities.
C. Key Questions
 How can attitudes toward Roma people be changed?
 Why are current integration strategies failing?
 What provisions need to be made for Roma people?
111 For example Nicolas Sarkozy’s expulsion and deportation of Roma in France in 2010,
http://www.theguardian.com/world/2010/aug/31/france-defends-roma-expulsions
112 European citizens have a right to adequate affordable housing through the European Social Charter
113 June 2011, French Interior Minister Claude Gueant claimed that “80% of street robberies are committed by Romanian minors”
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2003025/France-deport-Romanians-discovering-80-street-crime.html

 What will be effect of the recent rise of far-right political parties?
D. Key Actors and Measures in Place
The Race Equality Directive 2000/43 aims to combat racial discrimination in all areas of life. Practices such as
forced eviction and segregation of Roma children in schools all contravene this directive.
In April 2011, the EU Framework for National Roma Integration Strategies was adopted. This led to renewed
efforts to improve the integration of Roma communities, with cooperation on a European level, alongside
tailored strategies for individual Member States. Projects that contribute towards Roma integration are financed
through the European Social Fund and European Regional Development Fund.
The EU has an exclusive competence with regards to combating social exclusion and discrimination114
, meaning
the EU can legislate and adopt binding acts in this field. However, national governments cannot be overlooked
as stakeholders, as the uneven distribution of the Roma across Europe will require each country to have a
tailored approach. There are many NGOs, for example Amnesty International, who are concerned with
safeguarding human rights and therefore may play a role in this topic.
E. Key terms
Roma - The Roma are the largest ethnic minority within the EU. There are an estimated 10 to 12 million Roma
people in Europe, with 6 million living in EU Member States. The largest populations are in Bulgaria, Slovakia,
Serbia, Romania and Turkey.
Discrimination – Is the different treatment of individuals or groups based on sex, racial or ethnic origin, religion
or belief, disability, age and sexual orientation115
.
Social exclusion – This is exclusion from the prevailing social system and its rights and privileges, typically as a
result of poverty or the fact of belonging to a minority social group.
Poverty - There are different definitions of poverty in common usage, including absolute poverty and relative
poverty. Absolute poverty is defined as severe deprivation of basic human needs, including food, safe drinking
water, sanitation facilities, health, shelter, education and information. It depends not only on income but also
114 Article 3 of the Treaty for the European Union (TFEU)
115 Treaty on the Functioning of the EU (TFEU) Article 19

on access to services. Relative poverty defines income or resources in relation to the average. It is concerned
with the absence of the material needs to participate fully in accepted daily life.
Segregation - The enforced separation of different racial groups in a country, community, or establishment
F. Links
EU Sources
European Commission Report (April 2014) on the implementation of national Roma integration strategies, sections
3.1 – 3.5 and 5 in particular as they give a good overview of both the current problems and what is being done
http://ec.europa.eu/justice/discrimination/files/roma_implement_strategies2014_en.pdf
EU Directorate General for Justice’s website for Roma integration
http://ec.europa.eu/justice/discrimination/roma/index_en.htm
Articles
Independent article that deals with some of the arguments relating to immigration and crime
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/the-truth-about-romanias-gypsies-not-coming-over-here-not-
stealing-our-jobs-8489097.html
Europe’s Unwanted People: article highlighting some of the challenges faced by the Roma community, including
poverty, segregation and discrimination
http://www.spiegel.de/international/europe/europe-failing-to-protect-roma-from-discrimination-and-poverty-a-
942057.html
New York Times article addressing the issue of crime within Roma communities
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/10/20/sunday-review/are-the-roma-primitive-or-just-poor.html?pagewanted=1&_r=0
Analysis
Amnesty International Report (April 2014) on Europe’s failure to protect Roma people. Sections 1, 2, 6 and 7 give
a good account of some important issues and the role of the EU
http://www.amnesty.org/en/library/asset/EUR01/007/2014/en/7c3cc69e-e84d-43de-a6a9-
3732b4702dff/eur010072014en.pdf
Time magazine video explaining who the Roma are
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lmkYtlG-W9U
Amnesty International video
http://youtu.be/YA0-3ZEERIM -

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