July 17, 2014
In his speech on 15 July to the European Parliament, the new president of the European Commission, Jean-Claude Juncker, outlined the political guidelines for the Commission, under “A new start for Europe: Agenda for jobs, growth, fairness and democratic change”. His agenda is summarized in 10 policy areas. One of them is “9. A stronger… » read more
Posted by m.apelblat
July 7, 2014
The recent special audit report by the European Court of Auditors (ECA) on the establishment of the European External Action Service (EEAS) is revealing reading. The report lists several shortcomings in the preparation, planning, organization and staffing of the EEAS. It’s worth reading for two reasons. First, it’s a good example of an external performance… » read more
Posted by m.apelblat
July 3, 2014
In a recent op-ed (2 July), Friends of the European Commission – which is made up of former EU officials and private sector representatives – is proposing a number of ideas on how to improve the efficiency of the Commission in order to better meet the expectations of member states and citizens. See http://www.euractiv.com/sections/eu-priorities-2020/ex-commission-officials-reshape-eu-executive-303217 Overall,… » read more
Posted by m.apelblat
July 1, 2014
Re:”Britain’s not-so-iron fist” (Letter, INYT, June 25): Jay Stonehill claims that Britain, contrary to France, ruled its colonies in the Mid-East with silk gloves and preferred to allow local leaders to stay in place as long as they followed British dictates. This is not accurate. When Britain suppressed the Arab revolt in 1936 – 1939… » read more
Posted by m.apelblat
