Each Member State of the European Union must fully apply EU law. The body responsible for identifying possible violations of EU law is the European Commission. Where a Member State does not apply EU law and breaches its obligations under the EU Treaties, the European Commission may open a formal infringement procedure under Articles 258 and 260 TFEU (see details on the infringement procedure here).
The procedure initiated by the European Commission against Greece in this case concerns Regulation (EU) No 1143/2014 on the prevention and management of the introduction and spread of invasive alien species.
The reasoned opinion states that Greece has failed to develop, implement and communicate to the Commission an action plan to address the most important pathways for the introduction and spread of invasive alien species of concern in the EU. These species cause such significant damage to the environment and health that they justify the adoption of EU-wide measures.
As stated in the Commission’s “February infringements package: main decisions“, a large proportion of invasive alien species are unintentionally introduced into the Union. It is therefore vital to prioritise and manage more effectively the routes of unintentional introduction of these species. Greece has not yet established a surveillance system for invasive alien species of Union interest, nor has it included it in its existing system, although it was required to do so by January 2018.
Greece must respond satisfactorily and take the necessary measures within two months.
The application of EU law is an obligation of the Member States of the European Union.
If infringements of EU law are identified, the European Commission may take a series of actions against the Member State concerned to ensure the correct and full application of EU law by opening infringement proceedings under Articles 258 and 260 TFEU.
In this case, the Commission sent a reasoned opinion to Greece concerning the protection of biodiversity.
Bank Account number: 1100 0232 0016 560
IBAN: GR56 0140 1100 1100 0232 0016 560
BIC: CRBAGRAA
In a time where the very foundations of democracy are gradually being eroded by the rise of extreme nationalism, alt-right movements, the spread of disinformation and corporate capture, the efforts of organisations such as Vouliwatch are more relevant than ever.
We rely on the generosity of each and every one of you to continue with our efforts for more transparency and accounta
By financially supporting Vouliwatch you support our litigation strategy, our campaigns for transparency and accountability in the political system, the development of new civic tech tools, our research projects and last but not least our impartial and accurate
