Photo : AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty
22 September 2023, Friday | NIAS Europe Daily Brief #627
EM Daily Brief
By Rishika Yadav
BOSNIA-HERZEGOVINA
EU urges Bosnia’s Serb entity to withdraw “Special Registry and Publicity” draft law
On 21 September, the EU called on authorities in the Serb-controlled part of Bosnia to withdraw a draft law. The law is called, “Special Registry and Publicity of the Work of Non-Profit Organization.” The law would classify non-profit organizations funded from abroad as “foreign agents.” Critics argue that the law resembles Russia's law adopted before the aggression against Ukraine. The EU expressed concern that this law, along with recent legislation recriminalizing libel, limits freedom of expression and threatens civil society organizations. The move is seen as aligning Bosnia's Serb entity with authoritarian regimes rather than European values. (“EU calls on Bosnian Serb parliament to reject draft law that brands NGOs as ‘foreign agents’,” Associated Press, 21 September 2023)
GERMANY
Signs High Seas Treaty for ocean protection
On 20 September, Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock and Environment Minister Steffi Lemke signed the High Seas Treaty. It is aimed at designating large environmentally-protected areas in maritime zones outside individual countries’ control. The treaty, adopted by the UN in June, introduces regulations for protecting biodiversity in the world’s oceans. It addresses environmental consequences of activities like mineral extraction on the high seas. Germany was one of 67 countries to sign the treaty on the day it became available, including the US, China, Australia, and the EU. (“Germany signs UN treaty to protect ocean marine life,” Deutsche Welle, 21 September 2023)
SWITZERLAND
Passes ban on face coverings
On 20 September, the National Council, lower house of parliament, voted in favour of a ban on face coverings, including burqas, with a 151-29 majority. The legislation was originally approved by the upper house and is now part of federal law. Violators can face fines of up to CHF 1,000. While few women in Switzerland wear full face coverings, this move aligns the country with others like Belgium and France that have implemented similar bans. The ban applies in public spaces and private buildings accessible to the public, with some exceptions. The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) criticized Switzerland’s decision on the ban. The ban is seen by CAIR as driven by anti-Muslim prejudice. CAIR called on the US State Department to condemn the decision. (“Swiss parliament approves ban on full-face coverings like burqas, and sets fine for violators,” Associated Press, 21 September 2023; “CAIR Condemns Swiss Ban on Face Veil,” CAIR, 21 September 2023)
REGIONAL
Central banks across amends interest rates
On 21 September, according to Euronews, several European central banks announced or are expected to announce changes to their interest rates. Sweden's central bank, Riksbank, raised its key interest rate by a quarter-point to four percent. While signs of falling inflation were noted, the bank stated that inflation pressures remain too high. Norway’s central bank increased its policy rate by 0.25 per cent to 4.25 per cent due to rising costs and inflation. Meanwhile, the Swiss National Bank maintained its policy rate at 1.75 per cent, and the Bank of England is set to decide on potential rate changes. Additionally, Turkey's central bank has increased its policy rate by five per cent to 30 per cent in an effort to control rampant inflation. The central bank emphasized its commitment to further monetary tightening as needed to bring down inflation. The decision follows similar moves by central banks across Europe to address rising inflationary pressures. Central banks worldwide are grappling with inflationary pressures caused by post-pandemic recovery and global events. (“Sweden's central bank ramps up key interest rate over high inflation,” Euronews, 21 September 2023; James Thomas, “Norway central bank pushes up interest rate, hinting at another hike in December,” Euronews, 21 September 2023; James Thomas, “Turkey pushes interest rates up to highest level since 2003,” Euronews, 21 September 2023; Daniel Harper, “Bank of England pauses interest hikes, as several European countries climb,” Euronews, 21 September 2023)
Schengen reform aims to limit border controls
On 21 September, members of the European Parliament backed proposals to reform the Schengen Borders Code. The code governs border crossings within the Schengen Area while preserving free movement and addressing external threats. The proposals are aimed to ensure that border controls within the Schengen area are reintroduced only when genuinely necessary. The reform clarifies rules, strengthens free movement, and introduces targeted solutions to real threats. In cases of large-scale cross-border health emergencies, temporary restrictions may apply. However, EU citizens, long-term residents, and asylum-seekers would be exempted. Enhanced police cooperation is proposed as an alternative to border controls. Clear criteria for imposing border controls and stricter time limits are outlined. The Court of Justice of the EU ruled in April 2023 that re-installed border controls due to serious threats should not exceed six months, with extensions only for new threats or exceptional circumstances risking the Schengen area. (“Free movement: Schengen reform to ensure border controls only as a last resort,” European Parliament, 21 September 2023)