Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2024/2120 of 30 July 2024 renewing the designation of issuing entities designated to operate a system for the assignment of Unique Device Identifiers (UDIs) in the field of medical devices

January 13, 2026
Official Journalof the European Union ENL series
2024/2120 1.8.2024
(1) Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2019/939(3)designated four issuing entities that satisfied the relevant criteria for designation under both Regulations (EU) 2017/745 and (EU) 2017/746 to operate a system for the assignment of Unique Device Identifiers (UDIs) in the field of medical devices. According to Article 2 of the Implementing Decision (EU) 2019/939, those designations shall each remain valid for a period of time of five years from 27 June 2019, and the end of that period, each of those designations may be renewed for a further period of five years if the issuing entity remain in compliance with the criteria for designation and the terms of designation.
(2) By the end of the period of validity of those designations, the Commission assessed the compliance of the four designated entities with the relevant criteria for designation and the terms of designation. The Commission established that each of the four designated entities remains in compliance with the criteria for designation and the terms of designation.
(3) It is therefore appropriate to renew each of those designations for a further period of five years, starting from the end of validity of the previous designations in order to ensure full continuity in the operation of the UDI system,
THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION,
Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,
Having regard to Regulation (EU) 2017/745 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 5 April 2017 on medical devices, amending Directive 2001/83/EC, Regulation (EC) No 178/2002 and Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 and repealing Council Directives 90/385/EEC and 93/42/EEC (1), and in particular the first subparagraph of Article 27(2) thereof,
Having regard to Regulation (EU) 2017/746 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 5 April 2017 on in vitro diagnostic medical devices and repealing Directive 98/79/EC and Commission Decision 2010/227/EU (2), and in particular the first subparagraph of Article 24(2) thereof,
Whereas:
(1) Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2019/939 (3) designated four issuing entities that satisfied the relevant criteria for designation under both Regulations (EU) 2017/745 and (EU) 2017/746 to operate a system for the assignment of Unique Device Identifiers (UDIs) in the field of medical devices. According to Article 2 of the Implementing Decision (EU) 2019/939, those designations shall each remain valid for a period of time of five years from 27 June 2019, and the end of that period, each of those designations may be renewed for a further period of five years if the issuing entity remain in compliance with the criteria for designation and the terms of designation.
(2) By the end of the period of validity of those designations, the Commission assessed the compliance of the four designated entities with the relevant criteria for designation and the terms of designation. The Commission established that each of the four designated entities remains in compliance with the criteria for designation and the terms of designation.
(3) It is therefore appropriate to renew each of those designations for a further period of five years, starting from the end of validity of the previous designations in order to ensure full continuity in the operation of the UDI system,
HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:

Renewal of designation of issuing entities

The designation of the issuing entities listed in the Annex to Implementing Decision (EU) 2019/939 is renewed for a period of five years from 27 June 2024 until 27 June 2029.

Entry into force

This Decision shall enter into force on the day of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.

Council Decision (EU) 2024/2118 of 25 June 2024 on the signing, on behalf of the European Union, of the United Nations Convention on Transparency in Treaty-based Investor-State Arbitration

January 13, 2026
Official Journalof the European Union ENL series
2024/2118 31.7.2024
(1) Following the entry into force of the Treaty of Lisbon, foreign direct investment is included in the list of matters falling under the common commercial policy. Pursuant to Article 3(1), point (e), of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU), the Union has exclusive competence as regards the common commercial policy.
(2) In Opinion 2/15 of 16 May 2017, the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) clarified the division of competence between the Union and Member States in the context of the Free Trade Agreement between the European Union and the Republic of Singapore(1), stating that removing disputes from the jurisdiction of the courts of the Member States cannot be of a purely ancillary nature and cannot, therefore, be established without the Member States’ consent. The CJEU clarified the procedure for the conclusion of mixed agreements in Opinion 1/19 of 6 October 2021 on the Council of Europe Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence (Istanbul Convention).
(3) On 10 February 2014, the Council and the Member States authorised the Commission to negotiate a convention on the application of rules on transparency for investor-State dispute settlement under the auspices of the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL).
(4) On 9 July 2014, those negotiations were successfully concluded. On 10 December 2014, the United Nations Convention on Transparency in Treaty-based Investor-State Arbitration (‘the Convention’) was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly. On 17 March 2015, the Convention was opened for signature in Port Louis, Mauritius, and thereafter at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.
(5) It is desirable to apply the UNCITRAL Rules on Transparency in Treaty-based Investor-State Arbitration (‘the Rules’) to investor-State dispute settlement to the greatest extent possible. As regards the Union, the Rules should apply to the Energy Charter Treaty(2).
(6) It is noted that the second footnote of article 1 of the Rules means that the Union, when acting as a respondent, should apply article 7, paragraph 5, of the Rules in order to prevent the disclosure of information which the Union considers to be contrary to the essential security interests of a Member State.
(7) The Union should not apply the Rules when acting as a respondent in the case of a dispute initiated pursuant to the Energy Charter Treaty against a Member State which is not a party to the Convention, unless agreed upon otherwise with the Member State concerned.
(8) The Convention should be signed on behalf of the Union.
(9) In accordance with the Treaties, the Commission should ensure the signing of the Convention, subject to its conclusion,
THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,
Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Article 207(4), first subparagraph, in conjunction with Article 218(5) thereof,
Having regard to the proposal from the European Commission,
Whereas:
(1) Following the entry into force of the Treaty of Lisbon, foreign direct investment is included in the list of matters falling under the common commercial policy. Pursuant to Article 3(1), point (e), of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU), the Union has exclusive competence as regards the common commercial policy.
(2) In Opinion 2/15 of 16 May 2017, the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) clarified the division of competence between the Union and Member States in the context of the Free Trade Agreement between the European Union and the Republic of Singapore (1), stating that removing disputes from the jurisdiction of the courts of the Member States cannot be of a purely ancillary nature and cannot, therefore, be established without the Member States’ consent. The CJEU clarified the procedure for the conclusion of mixed agreements in Opinion 1/19 of 6 October 2021 on the Council of Europe Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence (Istanbul Convention).
(3) On 10 February 2014, the Council and the Member States authorised the Commission to negotiate a convention on the application of rules on transparency for investor-State dispute settlement under the auspices of the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL).
(4) On 9 July 2014, those negotiations were successfully concluded. On 10 December 2014, the United Nations Convention on Transparency in Treaty-based Investor-State Arbitration (‘the Convention’) was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly. On 17 March 2015, the Convention was opened for signature in Port Louis, Mauritius, and thereafter at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.
(5) It is desirable to apply the UNCITRAL Rules on Transparency in Treaty-based Investor-State Arbitration (‘the Rules’) to investor-State dispute settlement to the greatest extent possible. As regards the Union, the Rules should apply to the Energy Charter Treaty (2).
(6) It is noted that the second footnote of article 1 of the Rules means that the Union, when acting as a respondent, should apply article 7, paragraph 5, of the Rules in order to prevent the disclosure of information which the Union considers to be contrary to the essential security interests of a Member State.
(7) The Union should not apply the Rules when acting as a respondent in the case of a dispute initiated pursuant to the Energy Charter Treaty against a Member State which is not a party to the Convention, unless agreed upon otherwise with the Member State concerned.
(8) The Convention should be signed on behalf of the Union.
(9) In accordance with the Treaties, the Commission should ensure the signing of the Convention, subject to its conclusion,
HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:
The signing on behalf of the European Union of the Convention on Transparency in Treaty-based Investor-State Arbitration (‘the Convention’) is hereby authorised, subject to the conclusion of the said Convention.
The Commission shall ensure the signing of the Convention.
When signing the Convention on behalf of the Union, the Commission shall make a reservation in accordance with article 3(1)(a) of the Convention according to which the Union shall not apply the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL) Rules on Transparency in Treaty-based Investor-State Arbitration (‘the Rules’) when acting as a respondent in the case of a dispute initiated pursuant to the Energy Charter Treaty against a Member State which is not a party to the Convention unless agreed upon otherwise with the Member State concerned.
Five years after the entry into force of the Convention for the Union, the Commission shall submit a report on the operation of the Rules in disputes where the Union has been acting as a respondent. On the basis of that report, the Council, on a proposal from the Commission, shall re-evaluate the reservation referred to in Article 3 and adopt a decision on the amendment or withdrawal of that reservation. If no agreement can be found in the Council, the reservation referred to in Article 3 shall remain valid, subject to periodic review every five years. The Council shall adopt a decision on the withdrawal of that reservation if all Member States conclude the Convention or when Article 47(3) of the Energy Charter Treaty ceases to have effect for the Union.
This Decision shall enter into force on the date of its adoption.

Council Implementing Decision (CFSP) 2024/2116 of 26 July 2024 implementing Decision 2012/642/CFSP concerning restrictive measures in view of the situation in Belarus and the involvement of Belarus in the Russian aggression against Ukraine

January 13, 2026
Official Journalof the European Union ENL series
2024/2116 5.8.2024
(1) On 15 October 2012, the Council adopted Decision 2012/642/CFSP.
(2) On 25 January 2024, the Union condemned in the strongest possible terms the wave of repression against former political prisoners remaining in Belarus, as well as relatives of political prisoners. The Union declared that it stands in solidarity with the people of Belarus and will continue to support them on their way to an independent and democratic country.
(3) On 26 February 2024, the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy (the ‘High Representative’) issued a statement after parliamentary and local elections were held in Belarus. The High Representative condemned the unprecedented level of repression, human rights violations, restrictions on political participation and on access to independent media, and underlined that the parliamentary and local officials elected in Belarus lack democratic legitimacy since the conditions for free and fair elections had not been met.
(4) In view of the gravity of the situation, 28 individuals should be included in the list of natural and legal persons, entities and bodies subject to restrictive measures set out in Annex I to Decision 2012/642/CFSP.
(5) Decision 2012/642/CFSP should therefore be amended accordingly,
Names (Transliteration of Belarusian spelling) (Transliteration of Russian spelling) Names (Belarusian spelling) (Russian spelling) Identifying information Reasons for listing Date of listing
‘234. Andrii Valeriovich ANANENKOAndrei Valerievich ANANENKO Андрій Валерійович АНАНЕНКОАндрей Валерьевич АНАНЕНКО Head of the Main Department for Combating Organised Crime and Corruption (GUBOPiK) of the Ministry of Internal AffairsDOB: 13.10.1977POB: Minsk, BelarusNationality: BelarusianGender: male Andrii Ananenko is the head of the Main Department for Combating Organised Crime and Corruption (GUBOPiK) of the Ministry of Internal Affairs. GUBOPiK is one of the main bodies responsible for political persecution in Belarus, including arbitrary and unlawful arrests and ill-treatment, including torture, of activists and members of civil society.GUBOPiK has published videos of forced confessions by Belarusian activists and ordinary citizens, exposing them to the Belarusian general public and using them as a tool for political pressure.In his position, Andrii Ananenko is responsible for serious violations of human rights and for the repression of civil society in Belarus. Furthermore, he is supporting the Lukashenka regime. 5.8.2024
235. Mikhail Piatrovich BYADUNKEVICHMikhail Petrovitch BEDUNKEVICH Міхаіл Пятровіч БЯДУНКЕВIЧМихаил Петрович БЕДУНКЕВИЧ Deputy head of the Main Department for Combating Organised Crime and Corruption (GUBOPiK) of the Ministry of Internal Affairs; head of the third department of GUBOPiK, responsible for fighting “extremism”DOB: 8.10.1977POB: Minsk, BelarusNationality: BelarusianGender: male Mikhail Byadunkevich is the deputy head of the Main Department for Combating Organised Crime and Corruption (GUBOPiK) of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the head of the third department of GUBOPiK, which is responsible for fighting extremism. GUBOPiK is one of the main bodies responsible for political persecution in Belarus, including arbitrary and unlawful arrests and ill-treatment, including torture, of activists and members of civil society.GUBOPiK has published videos of forced confessions by Belarusian activists and ordinary citizens, exposing them to the Belarusian general public and using them as a tool for political pressure.In his position, Mikhail Byadunkevich is responsible for serious violations of human rights and for the repression of civil society in Belarus. Furthermore, he is supporting the Lukashenka regime. 5.8.2024
236. Zmitser Aliaksandrovich KOVACHDimitri Aleksandrovich KOVACH Змiцер Аляксандравiч КОВАЧДмитрий Александрович КОВАЧ Deputy head of the Main Department for Combating Organised Crime and Corruption (GUBOPiK) of the Ministry of Internal AffairsDOB: 14.1.1979POB: Elisovo (oblast of Mogilev)Nationality: BelarusianGender: male Zmitser Kovach is the deputy head of the Main Department for Combating Organised Crime and Corruption (GUBOPiK) of the Ministry of Internal Affairs. GUBOPiK is one of the main bodies responsible for political persecution in Belarus, including arbitrary and unlawful arrests and ill-treatment, including torture, of activists and members of civil society.GUBOPiK has published videos of forced confessions by Belarusian activists and ordinary citizens, exposing them to the Belarusian general public and using them as a tool for political pressure.In his position, Zmitser Kovach is responsible for serious violations of human rights and for the repression of civil society in Belarus. Furthermore, he is supporting the Lukashenka regime. 5.8.2024
237. Mikhail KAVALIOUMikhail KOVALEV Міхаіл КАВАЛЁЎМихаил КАВАЛЁВ Deputy head of the Department of State Prosecution of the Office for Supervision of Compliance with the Law of Court Decisions in Criminal Cases, Prosecutor General’s OfficeNationality: BelarusianGender: male In his position as deputy head of the Department of State Prosecution of the Office for Supervision of Compliance with the Law of Court Decisions in Criminal Cases, Prosecutor General’s Office, Mikhail Kavaliou is responsible for numerous politically motivated criminal cases against Belarusian political opposition. In particular, he is involved in the politically motivated prosecution of Svetlana Tsikhanouskaya, Pavel Latushko, Olga Kovalkova, Maria Moroz and Sergei Dilevsky, all members of the Coordination Council, a Belarusian opposition body, as well as in the “conspiracy to seize power” case against Yuri Ziankovich, Alexander Fyaduta, Ryhor Kastusyov, Olga Halubovych and Dzianis Kravchuk.Mikhail Kavaliou is therefore responsible for serious human rights violations and for seriously undermining the rule of law, as well as for the repression of civil society and democratic opposition in Belarus. 5.8.2024
238. Viktar Aliaksandravich DUBROUKAViktor Alexandrovich DUBROVKA Віктар Аляксандравіч ДУБРОЎКАВиктор Александрович ДУБРОВКА Head of the correctional institution Penal Colony No 11; colonel of the internal serviceNationality: BelarusianDOB: 19.6.1978POB: Makhnachi, Slonim District, Grodno RegionGender: malePersonal ID: 3190678K013PB2 Viktar Dubrouka is the head of the correctional institution Penal Colony No 11, where Siarhei Ramanau is serving a sentence of 20 years and 11 months and Vadzim Bobyrau is serving a sentence of 11 years. Both Ramanau and Bobyrau have been placed in the punishment cell multiple times.Viktar Dubrouka is therefore responsible for serious violations of human rights in Belarus. 5.8.2024
239. Pavel Ivanavich KAZAKOUPavel Ivanovich KAZAKOV Павел Iванавіч КАЗАКОЎПавел Иванович КАЗАКОВ Head of the correctional institution Prison No 1, Grodno; colonel of the internal serviceDOB: 11.6.1977POB: Russ, Volkavysk District, Grodno RegionNationality: BelarusianGender: malePersonal ID: 3110677K031PB5 Pavel Kazakou is the head of the correctional institution Prison No 1 in Grodno, where the political prisoner Ales Pushkin and the artist Ruslan Karchauli died due to not receiving proper medical care. Other prisoners detained in that institution testified to the inhumane conditions.Pavel Kazakou is therefore responsible for serious violations of human rights in Belarus. 5.8.2024
240. Dzianis Anatolievich TAUSTSIANKOUDenis Anatolievich TOLSTENKOV Дзяніс Анатольевіч ТАЎСЦЯНКОЎДенис Анатольевич ТОЛСТЕНКОВ Head of the correctional institution Penal Colony No 4; lieutenant colonel of the internal serviceNationality: BelarusianDOB: 17.8.1977POB: Orsha, Vitebsk RegionGender: malePersonal ID: 3170877M000PB9 Dzianis Taustsiankou is the head of the correctional institution Penal Colony No 4, where Polina Sharendo-Panasyuk, a social activist, is imprisoned. Sharendo’s husband, Andrei Sharendo, has spoken about the inhumane conditions and torture that his wife has been facing in that colony.Dzianis Taustsiankou is therefore responsible for serious violations of human rights in Belarus. 5.8.2024
241. Vasil Vasilevich KOLEDAVasily Vasilyevich KOLEDA Васіль Васільевіч КОЛЕДАВасилий Васильевич КОЛЕДА Deputy head of “Prison No 1” in Grodno; lieutenant colonel of the internal serviceGender: male Vasil Koleda is the deputy head of Prison No 1 in Grodno, where the political prisoner Ales Pushkin and the artist Ruslan Karchauli died due to not receiving proper medical care. Other prisoners detained in that institution testified to the inhumane conditions.Vasil Koleda is therefore responsible for serious violations of human rights in Belarus. 5.8.2024
242. Andrei Mikhailovich TSEDRYKAndrey Mikhailovich TSEDRIK Андрэй Міхайлавіч ЦЭДРЫКАндрей Михайлович ЦЕДРИК Head of Pre-trial Detention Centre No 1; colonel of the internal serviceNationality: BelarusianDOB: 20.4.1978POB: MinskGender: malePersonal ID: 3200478A058PB3 Andrei Tsedryk is the head of Pre-trial Detention Centre No 1 in Minsk, which is also known as “Voldarka”. Many political prisoners, including Ales Pushkin, have gone through that centre and have testified that the conditions in the centre are inhumane. Ales Bialiatski is being held in custody there. The centre also lacks a proper hospital.Andrei Tsedryk is therefore responsible for serious violations of human rights in Belarus. 5.8.2024
243. Iryna Barisauna AKULOVICHIrina Borisovna AKULOVICH Iрына Барысаўна АКУЛОВIЧИрина Борисовна АКУЛОВИЧ Director-general of the republican unitary enterprise Belarusian Telegraph Agency (BelTA)DOB: 24.10.1974POB: Mogilev, BelarusNationality: BelarusianGender: female Iryna Akulovich is a long-time supporter of Aliaksandr Lukashenka. In 2018, she was appointed by him as director-general of the biggest State news agency, Belarusian Telegraph Agency (BelTA), and still holds that position. BelTA, through its publications and activities, such as photo exhibitions and public events, extensively promotes Lukashenka and his regime.In her public statements and activities, Iryna Akulovich has shown support for Lukashenka and his narratives regarding the democratic opposition. As a head of BelTA, she sets the tone and direction of the news agency and views the media as a tool to preserve the current regime of the country. She is therefore supporting the Lukashenka regime. 5.8.2024
244. Mikita Sviatoslavovich RACHYLOUSKINikita Sviatoslavovich RACHILOVSKYI Мікіта Святаслававіч РАЧЫЛОЎСКIНикита Святославович РАЧИЛОВСКИЙ Host of the “Senate” television programme on the STV (СТВ) channel; chairman of the Youth Council (Youth Parliament at the National Assembly of the Republic of Belarus); member of the Youth Chamber commission on tourism and environment at the Parliamentary Assembly of the Union State of Belarus and Russia; chairman of the youth civic alliance Moving ForwardDOB: 28.7.1997POB: Minsk, BelarusNationality: BelarusianGender: male Mikita Rachylouski holds senior positions in the government institution the Youth Council, the GONGO Moving Forward and the media (the “Senate” television programme). Using those positions, Mykyta Rachylouski has spoken out against Belarusian citizens for criticising the government, participating in protests in 2020 and having opposing views. He has been especially vocal in seeking punishment and persecution for the blogger Kokobay, as well as the music band Drozdy and others. His statements incite persecution and promote hatred towards critics of the regime. During one of his numerous television appearances, he advocated for the removal of history faculty staff at Belarusian universities.He has, on numerous occasions, expressed support for the Belarusian government and for Aliaksandr Lukashenka. He is therefore supporting Lukashenka regime. 5.8.2024
245. Dzmitry Aliaksandrovich ZHUKDmitrii Aleksandrovich ZHUK Дзмітрый Аляксандравіч ЖУКДмитрий Александрович ЖУК Director and editor-in-chief of the Belarus Today publishing houseDOB: 7.7.1970POB: Letkaushchyna, Minsk regionNationality: BelarusianGender: malePersonal ID: 3070770A081PB7 Dzmitry Zhuk is a long-time supporter of Aliaksandr Lukashenka and his regime. He was previously the head of Lukashenka’s press service and a long-time director-general of the biggest State news agency, Belarusian Telegraph Agency (BelTA).Since 2018, he has been the director and editor-in-chief of the Belarus Today publishing house. In this position, Dzmitry Zhuk has willingly provided the Belarusian public with false information about repression perpetrated by the State authorities, spread disinformation produced by both Belarusian and Russian authorities and promoted hatred towards democratic opposition and civil society. He is directly responsible for the way in which Belarus Today presents information about the situation in the country, lending support to the authorities, including Lukashenka. He is therefore supporting the Lukashenka regime. 5.8.2024
246. Viachaslau Ivanavich TULEYKAVyacheslav Ivanovich TULEYKO Вячаслаў Iванавіч ТУЛЕЙКАВячеслав Иванович ТУЛЕЙКО Judge of the Minsk Regional CourtDOB: 27.7.1977Gender: maleNationality: Belarusian As a judge of the Minsk Regional Court, Viachaslau Tuleyka has represented the Lukashenka regime in numerous politically motivated trials and is responsible for the lengthy sentences against several media workers: lryna Leushyna (BelaPAN), Dzmitry Navazhylau (Bela PAN), Andrey Alyaksandrau (BelaPAN), lryna Zlobina (Bela PAN), Stepan Putilo (Nexta), Yan Rudik (Nexta) and Roman Pratasevich (Nexta). He also sentenced a Belarusian citizen for publishing anti-governmental comments on social media. Those sentences are part a systematic denial of, and punishment for, the exercise of freedom of expression on the part of the Belarusian authorities.Viachaslau Tuleyka is therefore responsible for serious human rights violations and for seriously undermining the rule of law, as well as for the repression of civil society and democratic opposition in Belarus. 5.8.2024
247. Alena Mikalayeuna ANANICHElena Nikoayevna ANANICH Алена Мікалаеўна АНАНIЧЕлена Николаевна АНАНИЧ Judge of the Minsk City CourtGender: femaleNationality: Belarusian Alena Ananich is a Belarusian judge who has served in the Minsk City Court since 2015, having been appointed by Aliaksandr Lukashenka. She has issued numerous politically motivated rulings against the opponents of the Belarusian authorities, including with particularly high prison sentences: Yauhen Yushkevich – 11 years; Vital Brahiniets (lawyer of Nobel Peace Prize laureate Alies Bialatski) – 8 years; Viachaslau Kandyba – 7 years; and Siarhiei Nikitsin – 6 years. She also sentenced in absentia an opposition activist abroad, Stanislau Lupanosau, formerly an officer of the Main Department for Combating Organised Crime and Corruption (GUBOPiK) of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, to 18 years in prison.She is therefore responsible for serious violations of human rights or the repression of civil society and democratic opposition in Belarus. 5.8.2024
248. Anatoliy Ryhoravich SOTNIKAUAnatoliy Grigorievich SOTNIKOV Анатолій Рыгоравіч СОТНIКАЎАнатолий Григорьевич СОТНИКОВ Judge of the Homel Regional CourtNationality: BelarusianGender: male Anatoliy Sotnikau is a judge who has served in the Homel Regional Court since 2019, having been appointed by Aliaksandr Lukashenka. He has issued politically motivated sentences against citizens of Belarus who voiced their opinions against Russia’s full-scale war of aggression against Ukraine and the brutality of Belarusian law-enforcement structures.He is therefore responsible for serious violations of human rights or the repression of civil society and democratic opposition in Belarus. 5.8.2024
249. Andrey Viktaravich MLECHKAAndrei Viktorovich MLECHKO Андрэй Віктаравіч МЛЕЧКААндрей Викторович МЛЕЧКО Judge of the Frunze District Court of the City of MinskNationality: BelarusianGender: male Andrey Mlechka is a judge who has served in the Frunze District Court of the City of Minsk since 2021, having been appointed by Aliaksandr Lukashenka. He has issued high politically motivated sentences against citizens peacefully expressing critical opinions of the authorities on the streets and on the internet.He is therefore responsible for serious violations of human rights or the repression of civil society and democratic opposition in Belarus. 5.8.2024
250. Ihar Aliaksandravich SHVEDAUIgor Alexandrovich SHVEDOV Iгар Аляксандравіч ШВЕДАЎИгорь Александрович ШВЕДОВ Judge of the Mahiliou Regional CourtNationality: BelarusianGender: male Ihar Shvedau is a judge who has served in the Mahiliou Regional Court since 2020, having been appointed by Aliaksandr Lukashenka. He has issued politically motivated sentences against opponents of the Lukashenka regime, including against journalist Andrei Kuznechyk (6 years in prison), political prisoner Anton Shybut (5 years) and others who criticised the Belarusian authorities.He is therefore responsible for serious violations of human rights or the repression of civil society and democratic opposition in Belarus. 5.8.2024
251. Iryna Vladimirovna PADKAVYRAVAIrina Vladimirovna PODKOVYROVA Iрына Уладзіміраўна ПАДКАВЫРАВАИрина Владимировна ПОДКОВЫРОВА ProsecutorDOB: 22.9.1972Nationality: BelarusianGender: female Iryna Padkavyrava is a prosecutor. She has been associated with the prosecuting authorities since at least 2009, when she served as a senior prosecutor in the Gomel region. In 2022, she acted as a prosecutor in the trial of an independent journalist affiliated with TVP and Belsat TV. At the time, she requested a 4-year prison sentence for the journalist. She also took part in the consideration of appeals against sentences handed down for posting entries on Belarusian social media critical of the government and its officials. As a prosecutor, she supported the penalties, considering them adequate and fair.She is therefore responsible for serious violations of human rights and the repression of civil society and democratic opposition in Belarus. 5.8.2024
252. Tatsiana Viktarauna SHOTSIKTatiana Viktorovna SHOTIK Таццяна Віктараўна ШОЦIКТатьяна Викторовна ШОТИК Judge of the court of Leninsky district in MinskDOB: 21.1.1992Nationality: BelarusianGender: femalePersonal ID: 4210192A027PB8 Tatsiana Shotsik is a judge who has served in the court of Leninsky district in Minsk since 2021, having been appointed by Aliaksandr Lukashenka. She has issued politically motivated sentences against citizens of Belarus who voiced their opinions against the President and the brutality of Belarusian law-enforcement structures. Igor Lednik, a political prisoner, who was sentenced by Shotsik to three years in prison, died on 20 February 2024.Tatsiana Shotsik is therefore responsible for serious violations of human rights or the repression of civil society and democratic opposition in Belarus. 5.8.2024
253. Vasil Uladzimiravich SKOKVasily Vladimirovich SKOK Васіль Уладзіміравіч СКОКВасилий Владимирович СКОК Judge of the Grodno Regional CourtNationality: BelarusianDOB: 17.11.1959Gender: malePersonal ID: 3171159K025PB0 Vasil Skok is a judge who has served in the Grodno Regional Court since 2003, having been appointed by Aliaksandr Lukashenka. He has issued politically motivated sentences against citizens of Belarus who voiced their opinions against the President, the regime and the brutality of Belarusian law-enforcement structures. He sentenced Andrey Sachevko to six years in a high-security penal colony.He is therefore responsible for serious violations of human rights or the repression of civil society and democratic opposition in Belarus. 5.8.2024
254. Stanislau Uladzimiravich IVANIUTSENKAStanislav Vladimirovich IVANYUTENKO Станіслаў Уладзіміравіч IВАНЮЦЕНКАСтанислав Владимирович ИВАНЮТЕНКО Judge of the court of the Rechitsa district of the Gomel regionDOB: 29.7.1982Nationality: BelarusianGender: malePersonal ID: 3290782H007PB3 Stanislau Ivaniutsenka is a judge who has served in the the court of the Rechitsa district of the Gomel region since 2019, having been appointed by Aliaksandr Lukashenka. He has issued politically motivated sentences against citizens of Belarus who voiced their opinions against the President and the brutality of Belarusian law-enforcement structures. He ruled on the case of Polina Sharendo, a social activist from Belarus, who was detained in January 2021.He is therefore responsible for serious violations of human rights or the repression of civil society and democratic opposition in Belarus. 5.8.2024
255. Aliaksey Anatolevich KHLYSZCZANKAUAlexey Anatolievich KHLYSHCHENKOV Аляксей Анатольевіч ХЛЫШЧАНКАЎАлексей Анатольевич ХЛЫЩЕНКОВ Judge of the Gomel Regional CourtDOB: 27.8.1982Nationality: BelarusianGender: malePersonal ID: 3270882H007PB4 Aliaksey Klyshchankau is a judge who has served in the Gomel Regional Court since 2019, having been appointed by Aliaksandr Lukashenka. He has issued politically motivated sentences against citizens of Belarus who voiced their opinions against the President and the brutality of Belarusian law-enforcement structures. He sentenced Yuri Vlasov, a confidant of presidential candidate Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, to 6,5 years in a maximum-security penal colony.Aliaksey Klyshchankau is therefore responsible for seriously undermining the rule of law and for the repression of civil society and democratic opposition in Belarus. 5.8.2024
256. Ihar Fiodaravich ZIAMTSAUIgor Fedorovich ZEMTSOV Iгар Фёдаравіч ЗЯМЦОЎИгорь Федорович ЗЕМЦОВ Judge of the Mogilev Regional CourtNationality: BelarusianDOB: 20.3.1975Gender: malePersonal ID: 3200375M061PB1 Ihar Ziamtsau is a judge who has served in the Mogilev Regional Court since 2017, having been appointed by Aliaksandr Lukashenka. He has issued politically motivated sentences against citizens of Belarus who voiced their opinions against the President and the brutality of Belarusian law-enforcement structures.He is therefore responsible for seriously undermining the rule of law and for the repression of civil society and democratic opposition in Belarus. 5.8.2024
257. Aliaksei Iurievich KRIAKVINAlexey Yurevich KRIAKVIN Аляксей Юр’евіч КРАКВIНАлексей Юрьевич КРЯКВИН Propagandist on the All-National Television (ONT) TV channelDOB: 9.11.1984POB: Minsk, BelarusNationality: BelarusianGender: male Aliaksei Kriakvin is a propagandist for the State-owned ONT TV channel and is engaged in the production of propaganda material in support of the Lukashenka regime. In particular, he was directly involved in the work on ONT’s “special investigation” about the criminal case of Viktor Babariko, in which data from the preliminary investigation were disclosed. He appears in television programmes, regularly criticising the actions of opponents of the Lukashenka regime and talking about the involvement of the West in popular unrest in Belarus. He is therefore supporting the Lukashenka regime. 5.8.2024
258. Viktar Arkadzievich SHAUTSOUViktor Arkadievich SHEVTSOV Вiктар Аркадзьевiч ШАЎЦОЎВиктор Аркадьевич ШВЕЦОВ Businessman, investorDOB: 5.12.1963POB: Razumava village, Vitebsk region, BelarusNationality: BelarusianGender: malePassport number: MP4572331, issued on 12 February 2021Personal ID: 3051263A036PB7 Viktar Shautsou is a businessman operating in Belarus, with business interests in holography. He is the sole shareholder of Tekhnokhimtrade. JSC Holography Industry is co-owned by, among others, Tekhnokhimtrade and two State-owned entities.Viktar Shautsou is a beneficiary of a monopoly artificially created by the State, as, since March 2011, JSC Holography Industry has been the only Belarusian company licensed by the Ministry of Finance of Belarus to produce security holograms and crystallograms for security forms and documents. The Council of Ministers of Belarus issued a requirement to put hologram stickers on a wide range of goods, cash registers and slot machines. Those hologram stickers are produced solely by JSC Holography Industry.Therefore, Viktar Shautsou is benefitting from the Lukashenka regime. 5.8.2024
259. Volha Anatoleuna DUBOVIKOlga Anatolievna DUBOVIK Вольга Анатольеўна ДУБОВIКОльга Анатольевна ДУБОВИК Judge of the court of the Maladzechna district of the Minsk regionNationality: BelarusianDOB: 26.8.1978Gender: femalePersonal ID: 4260878B038PB7 Volha Dubovik is a Belarusian judge who serves in the court of the Maladzechna district of the Minsk region. She was appointed by Aliaksandr Lukashenka in 2020. She has issued politically motivated sentences, including against citizens of Belarus who protested against the fraudulent presidential elections of 2020. She also sentenced a citizen for acting in self-defence against law-enforcement brutality.She is therefore responsible for seriously undermining the rule of law and for the repression of civil society and democratic opposition. 5.8.2024
260. Anton Genadzevich DUDALAnton Gennadievich DUDAL Антон Генадзевіч ДУДАЛЬАнтон Геннадьевич ДУДАЛЬ Judge of the court of the Bobruisk region and the city of BobruiskNationality: BelarusianDOB: 11.8.1986Gender: malePersonal ID: 3110886M079PB3 Anton Dudal is a judge who serves in the court of the Bobruisk district and the city of Bobruisk. He was appointed by Aliaksandr Lukashenka in 2019. He has issued politically motivated sentences, including against citizens of Belarus who voiced their opinions against the President. He sentenced a citizen for acting in self-defence against law-enforcement brutality. He transferred Andrey Sachevko to prison in Mahiliou.Anton Dudal is therefore responsible for the repression of civil society and democratic opposition. 5.8.2024
261. Mikalai Vasilievich SIARHEEVICHNikolai Vasilievich SERGEEVICH Мікалай Васільевіч СЯРГЕЕВIЧНиколай Васильевич СЕРГЕЕВИЧ Judge of the Zhlobinsky District Court of the Gomel RegionNationality: BelarusianDOB: 22.8.1983Gender: malePersonal ID: 3220883H026PB7 Mikalai Siarheevich is a Belarusian judge who serves in the Zhlobinsky District Court of the Gomel Region He was appointed by Aliaksandr Lukashenka. He has issued politically motivated sentences against citizens of Belarus who voiced their opinions against the fraudulent presidential elections of 2020, including participants in the Zhlobin protests.Mikalai Siarheevich is therefore responsible for the repression of civil society and democratic opposition. 5.8.2024’
THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,
Having regard to the Treaty on European Union, and in particular Article 31(2) thereof,
Having regard to Council Decision 2012/642/CFSP of 15 October 2012 concerning restrictive measures in view of the situation in Belarus and the involvement of Belarus in the Russian aggression against Ukraine (1), and in particular Article 6(1) thereof,
Having regard to the proposal from the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy,
Whereas:
(1) On 15 October 2012, the Council adopted Decision 2012/642/CFSP.
(2) On 25 January 2024, the Union condemned in the strongest possible terms the wave of repression against former political prisoners remaining in Belarus, as well as relatives of political prisoners. The Union declared that it stands in solidarity with the people of Belarus and will continue to support them on their way to an independent and democratic country.
(3) On 26 February 2024, the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy (the ‘High Representative’) issued a statement after parliamentary and local elections were held in Belarus. The High Representative condemned the unprecedented level of repression, human rights violations, restrictions on political participation and on access to independent media, and underlined that the parliamentary and local officials elected in Belarus lack democratic legitimacy since the conditions for free and fair elections had not been met.
(4) In view of the gravity of the situation, 28 individuals should be included in the list of natural and legal persons, entities and bodies subject to restrictive measures set out in Annex I to Decision 2012/642/CFSP.
(5) Decision 2012/642/CFSP should therefore be amended accordingly,
HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:
Annex I to Decision 2012/642/CFSP is amended in accordance with the Annex to this Decision.
This Decision shall enter into force on the date of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.

In Annex I to Decision 2012/642/CFSP, the following natural persons are added to the list set out in the section ‘A. Natural persons referred to in Articles 3(1) and 4(1)’:

Names (Transliteration of Belarusian spelling) (Transliteration of Russian spelling)
Names (Belarusian spelling) (Russian spelling)
Identifying information
Reasons for listing
Date of listing
‘234. Andrii Valeriovich ANANENKO
Andrei Valerievich ANANENKO
Андрій Валерійович АНАНЕНКО
Андрей Валерьевич АНАНЕНКО
Head of the Main Department for Combating Organised Crime and Corruption (GUBOPiK) of the Ministry of Internal Affairs
DOB: 13.10.1977
POB: Minsk, Belarus
Nationality: Belarusian
Gender: male
Andrii Ananenko is the head of the Main Department for Combating Organised Crime and Corruption (GUBOPiK) of the Ministry of Internal Affairs. GUBOPiK is one of the main bodies responsible for political persecution in Belarus, including arbitrary and unlawful arrests and ill-treatment, including torture, of activists and members of civil society.
GUBOPiK has published videos of forced confessions by Belarusian activists and ordinary citizens, exposing them to the Belarusian general public and using them as a tool for political pressure.
In his position, Andrii Ananenko is responsible for serious violations of human rights and for the repression of civil society in Belarus. Furthermore, he is supporting the Lukashenka regime.
5.8.2024 235. Mikhail Piatrovich BYADUNKEVICH
Mikhail Petrovitch BEDUNKEVICH
Міхаіл Пятровіч БЯДУНКЕВIЧ
Михаил Петрович БЕДУНКЕВИЧ
Deputy head of the Main Department for Combating Organised Crime and Corruption (GUBOPiK) of the Ministry of Internal Affairs; head of the third department of GUBOPiK, responsible for fighting “extremism”
DOB: 8.10.1977
POB: Minsk, Belarus
Nationality: Belarusian
Gender: male
Mikhail Byadunkevich is the deputy head of the Main Department for Combating Organised Crime and Corruption (GUBOPiK) of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the head of the third department of GUBOPiK, which is responsible for fighting extremism. GUBOPiK is one of the main bodies responsible for political persecution in Belarus, including arbitrary and unlawful arrests and ill-treatment, including torture, of activists and members of civil society.
GUBOPiK has published videos of forced confessions by Belarusian activists and ordinary citizens, exposing them to the Belarusian general public and using them as a tool for political pressure.
In his position, Mikhail Byadunkevich is responsible for serious violations of human rights and for the repression of civil society in Belarus. Furthermore, he is supporting the Lukashenka regime.
5.8.2024 236. Zmitser Aliaksandrovich KOVACH
Dimitri Aleksandrovich KOVACH
Змiцер Аляксандравiч КОВАЧ
Дмитрий Александрович КОВАЧ
Deputy head of the Main Department for Combating Organised Crime and Corruption (GUBOPiK) of the Ministry of Internal Affairs
DOB: 14.1.1979
POB: Elisovo (oblast of Mogilev)
Nationality: Belarusian
Gender: male
Zmitser Kovach is the deputy head of the Main Department for Combating Organised Crime and Corruption (GUBOPiK) of the Ministry of Internal Affairs. GUBOPiK is one of the main bodies responsible for political persecution in Belarus, including arbitrary and unlawful arrests and ill-treatment, including torture, of activists and members of civil society.
GUBOPiK has published videos of forced confessions by Belarusian activists and ordinary citizens, exposing them to the Belarusian general public and using them as a tool for political pressure.
In his position, Zmitser Kovach is responsible for serious violations of human rights and for the repression of civil society in Belarus. Furthermore, he is supporting the Lukashenka regime.
5.8.2024 237. Mikhail KAVALIOU
Mikhail KOVALEV
Міхаіл КАВАЛЁЎ
Михаил КАВАЛЁВ
Deputy head of the Department of State Prosecution of the Office for Supervision of Compliance with the Law of Court Decisions in Criminal Cases, Prosecutor General’s Office
Nationality: Belarusian
Gender: male
In his position as deputy head of the Department of State Prosecution of the Office for Supervision of Compliance with the Law of Court Decisions in Criminal Cases, Prosecutor General’s Office, Mikhail Kavaliou is responsible for numerous politically motivated criminal cases against Belarusian political opposition. In particular, he is involved in the politically motivated prosecution of Svetlana Tsikhanouskaya, Pavel Latushko, Olga Kovalkova, Maria Moroz and Sergei Dilevsky, all members of the Coordination Council, a Belarusian opposition body, as well as in the “conspiracy to seize power” case against Yuri Ziankovich, Alexander Fyaduta, Ryhor Kastusyov, Olga Halubovych and Dzianis Kravchuk.
Mikhail Kavaliou is therefore responsible for serious human rights violations and for seriously undermining the rule of law, as well as for the repression of civil society and democratic opposition in Belarus.
5.8.2024 238. Viktar Aliaksandravich DUBROUKA
Viktor Alexandrovich DUBROVKA
Віктар Аляксандравіч ДУБРОЎКА
Виктор Александрович ДУБРОВКА
Head of the correctional institution Penal Colony No 11; colonel of the internal service
Nationality: Belarusian
DOB: 19.6.1978
POB: Makhnachi, Slonim District, Grodno Region
Gender: male
Personal ID: 3190678K013PB2
Viktar Dubrouka is the head of the correctional institution Penal Colony No 11, where Siarhei Ramanau is serving a sentence of 20 years and 11 months and Vadzim Bobyrau is serving a sentence of 11 years. Both Ramanau and Bobyrau have been placed in the punishment cell multiple times.
Viktar Dubrouka is therefore responsible for serious violations of human rights in Belarus.
5.8.2024 239. Pavel Ivanavich KAZAKOU
Pavel Ivanovich KAZAKOV
Павел Iванавіч КАЗАКОЎ
Павел Иванович КАЗАКОВ
Head of the correctional institution Prison No 1, Grodno; colonel of the internal service
DOB: 11.6.1977
POB: Russ, Volkavysk District, Grodno Region
Nationality: Belarusian
Gender: male
Personal ID: 3110677K031PB5
Pavel Kazakou is the head of the correctional institution Prison No 1 in Grodno, where the political prisoner Ales Pushkin and the artist Ruslan Karchauli died due to not receiving proper medical care. Other prisoners detained in that institution testified to the inhumane conditions.
Pavel Kazakou is therefore responsible for serious violations of human rights in Belarus.
5.8.2024 240. Dzianis Anatolievich TAUSTSIANKOU
Denis Anatolievich TOLSTENKOV
Дзяніс Анатольевіч ТАЎСЦЯНКОЎ
Денис Анатольевич ТОЛСТЕНКОВ
Head of the correctional institution Penal Colony No 4; lieutenant colonel of the internal service
Nationality: Belarusian
DOB: 17.8.1977
POB: Orsha, Vitebsk Region
Gender: male
Personal ID: 3170877M000PB9
Dzianis Taustsiankou is the head of the correctional institution Penal Colony No 4, where Polina Sharendo-Panasyuk, a social activist, is imprisoned. Sharendo’s husband, Andrei Sharendo, has spoken about the inhumane conditions and torture that his wife has been facing in that colony.
Dzianis Taustsiankou is therefore responsible for serious violations of human rights in Belarus.
5.8.2024 241. Vasil Vasilevich KOLEDA
Vasily Vasilyevich KOLEDA
Васіль Васільевіч КОЛЕДА
Василий Васильевич КОЛЕДА
Deputy head of “Prison No 1” in Grodno; lieutenant colonel of the internal service
Gender: male
Vasil Koleda is the deputy head of Prison No 1 in Grodno, where the political prisoner Ales Pushkin and the artist Ruslan Karchauli died due to not receiving proper medical care. Other prisoners detained in that institution testified to the inhumane conditions.
Vasil Koleda is therefore responsible for serious violations of human rights in Belarus.
5.8.2024 242. Andrei Mikhailovich TSEDRYK
Andrey Mikhailovich TSEDRIK
Андрэй Міхайлавіч ЦЭДРЫК
Андрей Михайлович ЦЕДРИК
Head of Pre-trial Detention Centre No 1; colonel of the internal service
Nationality: Belarusian
DOB: 20.4.1978
POB: Minsk
Gender: male
Personal ID: 3200478A058PB3
Andrei Tsedryk is the head of Pre-trial Detention Centre No 1 in Minsk, which is also known as “Voldarka”. Many political prisoners, including Ales Pushkin, have gone through that centre and have testified that the conditions in the centre are inhumane. Ales Bialiatski is being held in custody there. The centre also lacks a proper hospital.
Andrei Tsedryk is therefore responsible for serious violations of human rights in Belarus.
5.8.2024 243. Iryna Barisauna AKULOVICH
Irina Borisovna AKULOVICH
Iрына Барысаўна АКУЛОВIЧ
Ирина Борисовна АКУЛОВИЧ
Director-general of the republican unitary enterprise Belarusian Telegraph Agency (BelTA)
DOB: 24.10.1974
POB: Mogilev, Belarus
Nationality: Belarusian
Gender: female
Iryna Akulovich is a long-time supporter of Aliaksandr Lukashenka. In 2018, she was appointed by him as director-general of the biggest State news agency, Belarusian Telegraph Agency (BelTA), and still holds that position. BelTA, through its publications and activities, such as photo exhibitions and public events, extensively promotes Lukashenka and his regime.
In her public statements and activities, Iryna Akulovich has shown support for Lukashenka and his narratives regarding the democratic opposition. As a head of BelTA, she sets the tone and direction of the news agency and views the media as a tool to preserve the current regime of the country. She is therefore supporting the Lukashenka regime.
5.8.2024 244. Mikita Sviatoslavovich RACHYLOUSKI
Nikita Sviatoslavovich RACHILOVSKYI
Мікіта Святаслававіч РАЧЫЛОЎСКI
Никита Святославович РАЧИЛОВСКИЙ
Host of the “Senate” television programme on the STV (СТВ) channel; chairman of the Youth Council (Youth Parliament at the National Assembly of the Republic of Belarus); member of the Youth Chamber commission on tourism and environment at the Parliamentary Assembly of the Union State of Belarus and Russia; chairman of the youth civic alliance Moving Forward
DOB: 28.7.1997
POB: Minsk, Belarus
Nationality: Belarusian
Gender: male
Mikita Rachylouski holds senior positions in the government institution the Youth Council, the GONGO Moving Forward and the media (the “Senate” television programme). Using those positions, Mykyta Rachylouski has spoken out against Belarusian citizens for criticising the government, participating in protests in 2020 and having opposing views. He has been especially vocal in seeking punishment and persecution for the blogger Kokobay, as well as the music band Drozdy and others. His statements incite persecution and promote hatred towards critics of the regime. During one of his numerous television appearances, he advocated for the removal of history faculty staff at Belarusian universities.
He has, on numerous occasions, expressed support for the Belarusian government and for Aliaksandr Lukashenka. He is therefore supporting Lukashenka regime.
5.8.2024 245. Dzmitry Aliaksandrovich ZHUK
Dmitrii Aleksandrovich ZHUK
Дзмітрый Аляксандравіч ЖУК
Дмитрий Александрович ЖУК
Director and editor-in-chief of the Belarus Today publishing house
DOB: 7.7.1970
POB: Letkaushchyna, Minsk region
Nationality: Belarusian
Gender: male
Personal ID: 3070770A081PB7
Dzmitry Zhuk is a long-time supporter of Aliaksandr Lukashenka and his regime. He was previously the head of Lukashenka’s press service and a long-time director-general of the biggest State news agency, Belarusian Telegraph Agency (BelTA).
Since 2018, he has been the director and editor-in-chief of the Belarus Today publishing house. In this position, Dzmitry Zhuk has willingly provided the Belarusian public with false information about repression perpetrated by the State authorities, spread disinformation produced by both Belarusian and Russian authorities and promoted hatred towards democratic opposition and civil society. He is directly responsible for the way in which Belarus Today presents information about the situation in the country, lending support to the authorities, including Lukashenka. He is therefore supporting the Lukashenka regime.
5.8.2024 246. Viachaslau Ivanavich TULEYKA
Vyacheslav Ivanovich TULEYKO
Вячаслаў Iванавіч ТУЛЕЙКА
Вячеслав Иванович ТУЛЕЙКО
Judge of the Minsk Regional Court
DOB: 27.7.1977
Gender: male
Nationality: Belarusian
As a judge of the Minsk Regional Court, Viachaslau Tuleyka has represented the Lukashenka regime in numerous politically motivated trials and is responsible for the lengthy sentences against several media workers: lryna Leushyna (BelaPAN), Dzmitry Navazhylau (Bela PAN), Andrey Alyaksandrau (BelaPAN), lryna Zlobina (Bela PAN), Stepan Putilo (Nexta), Yan Rudik (Nexta) and Roman Pratasevich (Nexta). He also sentenced a Belarusian citizen for publishing anti-governmental comments on social media. Those sentences are part a systematic denial of, and punishment for, the exercise of freedom of expression on the part of the Belarusian authorities.
Viachaslau Tuleyka is therefore responsible for serious human rights violations and for seriously undermining the rule of law, as well as for the repression of civil society and democratic opposition in Belarus.
5.8.2024 247. Alena Mikalayeuna ANANICH
Elena Nikoayevna ANANICH
Алена Мікалаеўна АНАНIЧ
Елена Николаевна АНАНИЧ
Judge of the Minsk City Court
Gender: female
Nationality: Belarusian
Alena Ananich is a Belarusian judge who has served in the Minsk City Court since 2015, having been appointed by Aliaksandr Lukashenka. She has issued numerous politically motivated rulings against the opponents of the Belarusian authorities, including with particularly high prison sentences: Yauhen Yushkevich – 11 years; Vital Brahiniets (lawyer of Nobel Peace Prize laureate Alies Bialatski) – 8 years; Viachaslau Kandyba – 7 years; and Siarhiei Nikitsin – 6 years. She also sentenced in absentia an opposition activist abroad, Stanislau Lupanosau, formerly an officer of the Main Department for Combating Organised Crime and Corruption (GUBOPiK) of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, to 18 years in prison.
She is therefore responsible for serious violations of human rights or the repression of civil society and democratic opposition in Belarus.
5.8.2024 248. Anatoliy Ryhoravich SOTNIKAU
Anatoliy Grigorievich SOTNIKOV
Анатолій Рыгоравіч СОТНIКАЎ
Анатолий Григорьевич СОТНИКОВ
Judge of the Homel Regional Court
Nationality: Belarusian
Gender: male
Anatoliy Sotnikau is a judge who has served in the Homel Regional Court since 2019, having been appointed by Aliaksandr Lukashenka. He has issued politically motivated sentences against citizens of Belarus who voiced their opinions against Russia’s full-scale war of aggression against Ukraine and the brutality of Belarusian law-enforcement structures.
He is therefore responsible for serious violations of human rights or the repression of civil society and democratic opposition in Belarus.
5.8.2024 249. Andrey Viktaravich MLECHKA
Andrei Viktorovich MLECHKO
Андрэй Віктаравіч МЛЕЧКА
Андрей Викторович МЛЕЧКО
Judge of the Frunze District Court of the City of Minsk
Nationality: Belarusian
Gender: male
Andrey Mlechka is a judge who has served in the Frunze District Court of the City of Minsk since 2021, having been appointed by Aliaksandr Lukashenka. He has issued high politically motivated sentences against citizens peacefully expressing critical opinions of the authorities on the streets and on the internet.
He is therefore responsible for serious violations of human rights or the repression of civil society and democratic opposition in Belarus.
5.8.2024 250. Ihar Aliaksandravich SHVEDAU
Igor Alexandrovich SHVEDOV
Iгар Аляксандравіч ШВЕДАЎ
Игорь Александрович ШВЕДОВ
Judge of the Mahiliou Regional Court
Nationality: Belarusian
Gender: male
Ihar Shvedau is a judge who has served in the Mahiliou Regional Court since 2020, having been appointed by Aliaksandr Lukashenka. He has issued politically motivated sentences against opponents of the Lukashenka regime, including against journalist Andrei Kuznechyk (6 years in prison), political prisoner Anton Shybut (5 years) and others who criticised the Belarusian authorities.
He is therefore responsible for serious violations of human rights or the repression of civil society and democratic opposition in Belarus.
5.8.2024 251. Iryna Vladimirovna PADKAVYRAVA
Irina Vladimirovna PODKOVYROVA
Iрына Уладзіміраўна ПАДКАВЫРАВА
Ирина Владимировна ПОДКОВЫРОВА
Prosecutor
DOB: 22.9.1972
Nationality: Belarusian
Gender: female
Iryna Padkavyrava is a prosecutor. She has been associated with the prosecuting authorities since at least 2009, when she served as a senior prosecutor in the Gomel region. In 2022, she acted as a prosecutor in the trial of an independent journalist affiliated with TVP and Belsat TV. At the time, she requested a 4-year prison sentence for the journalist. She also took part in the consideration of appeals against sentences handed down for posting entries on Belarusian social media critical of the government and its officials. As a prosecutor, she supported the penalties, considering them adequate and fair.
She is therefore responsible for serious violations of human rights and the repression of civil society and democratic opposition in Belarus.
5.8.2024 252. Tatsiana Viktarauna SHOTSIK
Tatiana Viktorovna SHOTIK
Таццяна Віктараўна ШОЦIК
Татьяна Викторовна ШОТИК
Judge of the court of Leninsky district in Minsk
DOB: 21.1.1992
Nationality: Belarusian
Gender: female
Personal ID: 4210192A027PB8
Tatsiana Shotsik is a judge who has served in the court of Leninsky district in Minsk since 2021, having been appointed by Aliaksandr Lukashenka. She has issued politically motivated sentences against citizens of Belarus who voiced their opinions against the President and the brutality of Belarusian law-enforcement structures. Igor Lednik, a political prisoner, who was sentenced by Shotsik to three years in prison, died on 20 February 2024. Tatsiana Shotsik is therefore responsible for serious violations of human rights or the repression of civil society and democratic opposition in Belarus.
5.8.2024 253. Vasil Uladzimiravich SKOK
Vasily Vladimirovich SKOK
Васіль Уладзіміравіч СКОК
Василий Владимирович СКОК
Judge of the Grodno Regional Court
Nationality: Belarusian
DOB: 17.11.1959
Gender: male
Personal ID: 3171159K025PB0
Vasil Skok is a judge who has served in the Grodno Regional Court since 2003, having been appointed by Aliaksandr Lukashenka. He has issued politically motivated sentences against citizens of Belarus who voiced their opinions against the President, the regime and the brutality of Belarusian law-enforcement structures. He sentenced Andrey Sachevko to six years in a high-security penal colony.
He is therefore responsible for serious violations of human rights or the repression of civil society and democratic opposition in Belarus.
5.8.2024 254. Stanislau Uladzimiravich IVANIUTSENKA
Stanislav Vladimirovich IVANYUTENKO
Станіслаў Уладзіміравіч IВАНЮЦЕНКА
Станислав Владимирович ИВАНЮТЕНКО
Judge of the court of the Rechitsa district of the Gomel region
DOB: 29.7.1982
Nationality: Belarusian
Gender: male
Personal ID: 3290782H007PB3
Stanislau Ivaniutsenka is a judge who has served in the the court of the Rechitsa district of the Gomel region since 2019, having been appointed by Aliaksandr Lukashenka. He has issued politically motivated sentences against citizens of Belarus who voiced their opinions against the President and the brutality of Belarusian law-enforcement structures. He ruled on the case of Polina Sharendo, a social activist from Belarus, who was detained in January 2021. He is therefore responsible for serious violations of human rights or the repression of civil society and democratic opposition in Belarus.
5.8.2024 255. Aliaksey Anatolevich KHLYSZCZANKAU
Alexey Anatolievich KHLYSHCHENKOV
Аляксей Анатольевіч ХЛЫШЧАНКАЎ
Алексей Анатольевич ХЛЫЩЕНКОВ
Judge of the Gomel Regional Court
DOB: 27.8.1982
Nationality: Belarusian
Gender: male
Personal ID: 3270882H007PB4
Aliaksey Klyshchankau is a judge who has served in the Gomel Regional Court since 2019, having been appointed by Aliaksandr Lukashenka. He has issued politically motivated sentences against citizens of Belarus who voiced their opinions against the President and the brutality of Belarusian law-enforcement structures. He sentenced Yuri Vlasov, a confidant of presidential candidate Svetlana Tikhanovskaya, to 6,5 years in a maximum-security penal colony.
Aliaksey Klyshchankau is therefore responsible for seriously undermining the rule of law and for the repression of civil society and democratic opposition in Belarus.
5.8.2024 256. Ihar Fiodaravich ZIAMTSAU
Igor Fedorovich ZEMTSOV
Iгар Фёдаравіч ЗЯМЦОЎ
Игорь Федорович ЗЕМЦОВ
Judge of the Mogilev Regional Court
Nationality: Belarusian
DOB: 20.3.1975
Gender: male
Personal ID: 3200375M061PB1
Ihar Ziamtsau is a judge who has served in the Mogilev Regional Court since 2017, having been appointed by Aliaksandr Lukashenka. He has issued politically motivated sentences against citizens of Belarus who voiced their opinions against the President and the brutality of Belarusian law-enforcement structures.
He is therefore responsible for seriously undermining the rule of law and for the repression of civil society and democratic opposition in Belarus.
5.8.2024 257. Aliaksei Iurievich KRIAKVIN
Alexey Yurevich KRIAKVIN
Аляксей Юр’евіч КРАКВIН
Алексей Юрьевич КРЯКВИН
Propagandist on the All-National Television (ONT) TV channel
DOB: 9.11.1984
POB: Minsk, Belarus
Nationality: Belarusian
Gender: male
Aliaksei Kriakvin is a propagandist for the State-owned ONT TV channel and is engaged in the production of propaganda material in support of the Lukashenka regime. In particular, he was directly involved in the work on ONT’s “special investigation” about the criminal case of Viktor Babariko, in which data from the preliminary investigation were disclosed. He appears in television programmes, regularly criticising the actions of opponents of the Lukashenka regime and talking about the involvement of the West in popular unrest in Belarus. He is therefore supporting the Lukashenka regime.
5.8.2024 258. Viktar Arkadzievich SHAUTSOU
Viktor Arkadievich SHEVTSOV
Вiктар Аркадзьевiч ШАЎЦОЎ
Виктор Аркадьевич ШВЕЦОВ
Businessman, investor
DOB: 5.12.1963
POB: Razumava village, Vitebsk region, Belarus
Nationality: Belarusian
Gender: male
Passport number: MP4572331, issued on 12 February 2021
Personal ID: 3051263A036PB7
Viktar Shautsou is a businessman operating in Belarus, with business interests in holography. He is the sole shareholder of Tekhnokhimtrade. JSC Holography Industry is co-owned by, among others, Tekhnokhimtrade and two State-owned entities.
Viktar Shautsou is a beneficiary of a monopoly artificially created by the State, as, since March 2011, JSC Holography Industry has been the only Belarusian company licensed by the Ministry of Finance of Belarus to produce security holograms and crystallograms for security forms and documents. The Council of Ministers of Belarus issued a requirement to put hologram stickers on a wide range of goods, cash registers and slot machines. Those hologram stickers are produced solely by JSC Holography Industry.
Therefore, Viktar Shautsou is benefitting from the Lukashenka regime.
5.8.2024 259. Volha Anatoleuna DUBOVIK
Olga Anatolievna DUBOVIK
Вольга Анатольеўна ДУБОВIК
Ольга Анатольевна ДУБОВИК
Judge of the court of the Maladzechna district of the Minsk region
Nationality: Belarusian
DOB: 26.8.1978
Gender: female
Personal ID: 4260878B038PB7
Volha Dubovik is a Belarusian judge who serves in the court of the Maladzechna district of the Minsk region. She was appointed by Aliaksandr Lukashenka in 2020. She has issued politically motivated sentences, including against citizens of Belarus who protested against the fraudulent presidential elections of 2020. She also sentenced a citizen for acting in self-defence against law-enforcement brutality.
She is therefore responsible for seriously undermining the rule of law and for the repression of civil society and democratic opposition.
5.8.2024 260. Anton Genadzevich DUDAL
Anton Gennadievich DUDAL
Антон Генадзевіч ДУДАЛЬ
Антон Геннадьевич ДУДАЛЬ
Judge of the court of the Bobruisk region and the city of Bobruisk
Nationality: Belarusian
DOB: 11.8.1986
Gender: male
Personal ID: 3110886M079PB3
Anton Dudal is a judge who serves in the court of the Bobruisk district and the city of Bobruisk. He was appointed by Aliaksandr Lukashenka in 2019. He has issued politically motivated sentences, including against citizens of Belarus who voiced their opinions against the President. He sentenced a citizen for acting in self-defence against law-enforcement brutality. He transferred Andrey Sachevko to prison in Mahiliou.
Anton Dudal is therefore responsible for the repression of civil society and democratic opposition.
5.8.2024 261. Mikalai Vasilievich SIARHEEVICH
Nikolai Vasilievich SERGEEVICH
Мікалай Васільевіч СЯРГЕЕВIЧ
Николай Васильевич СЕРГЕЕВИЧ
Judge of the Zhlobinsky District Court of the Gomel Region
Nationality: Belarusian
DOB: 22.8.1983
Gender: male
Personal ID: 3220883H026PB7
Mikalai Siarheevich is a Belarusian judge who serves in the Zhlobinsky District Court of the Gomel Region He was appointed by Aliaksandr Lukashenka. He has issued politically motivated sentences against citizens of Belarus who voiced their opinions against the fraudulent presidential elections of 2020, including participants in the Zhlobin protests.
Mikalai Siarheevich is therefore responsible for the repression of civil society and democratic opposition.
5.8.2024’

Commission Decision (EU) 2024/2115 of 29 July 2024 establishing an independent advisory European Fiscal Board and repealing Decision (EU) 2015/1937

January 13, 2026
Official Journalof the European Union ENL series
2024/2115 1.8.2024
(1) Commission Decision (EU) 2015/1937(1)established an independent advisory European Fiscal Board (‘the Board’).
(2) The implementation of Regulation (EU) 2024/1263 of the European Parliament and of the Council(2)relies on a more prominent advisory role of the Board in the economic governance framework of the Union as well as on its independence and access to documents.
(3) The Board should provide advice, at the request of the Commission or the Council, on the implementation of the multilateral fiscal surveillance framework, including on the extension of the general escape clause, while fully respecting the Commission’s Treaty-based role and competences.
(4) The Board should also advise on the prospective fiscal stance appropriate for the euro area as a whole. It should as well make suggestions for the future evolution of the fiscal framework.
(5) The Board should cooperate with independent fiscal institutions as referred to in Article 8a of Council Directive 2011/85/EU(3), as amended by Council Directive (EU) 2024/1265(4), with a view to promoting exchanges of best practices.
(6) The Chair and the Members of the Board should be selected and appointed by the Commission, after consultation of the European Parliament and of the Council. To the extent possible, the appointments should ensure an appropriate geographical and gender balance.
(7) Taking into account the need of strengthening of the role of the Board, new provisions governing the Board should be adopted.
(8) Decision (EU) 2015/1937 should therefore be repealed and replaced by this Decision,
(a) provide a timelyex postevaluation of the implementation of the Union fiscal governance framework;
(b) advise on the prospective fiscal stance appropriate for the euro area as a whole, as well as on the appropriate national fiscal stances that are consistent with it within the rules of the Stability and Growth Pact;
(c) upon request of the Commission or the Council, provide advice on the implementation of the Stability and Growth Pact, including on the extension of the general escape clause in accordance with Article 25 of Regulation (EU) 2024/1263;
(d) cooperate closely with independent fiscal institutions as referred to in Article 8a of Directive 2011/85/EU;
(e) make suggestions for the future evolution of the fiscal framework.
(a) assist the Board in preparing its meetings, reviewing the documents to be discussed and monitoring the progress of work against the priorities set out by the Board;
(b) provide high-quality analytical, statistical, administrative and logistical support to the Board under the direction of the Chair;
(c) ensure cooperation with the independent fiscal institutions as necessary for supporting the mission and tasks of the Board;
(d) inform in a timely manner the Commission or the Council about the advisory requests the Board has received from the other institution.
THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION,
Having regard to the Treaty on European Union,
Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,
Whereas:
(1) Commission Decision (EU) 2015/1937 (1) established an independent advisory European Fiscal Board (‘the Board’).
(2) The implementation of Regulation (EU) 2024/1263 of the European Parliament and of the Council (2) relies on a more prominent advisory role of the Board in the economic governance framework of the Union as well as on its independence and access to documents.
(3) The Board should provide advice, at the request of the Commission or the Council, on the implementation of the multilateral fiscal surveillance framework, including on the extension of the general escape clause, while fully respecting the Commission’s Treaty-based role and competences.
(4) The Board should also advise on the prospective fiscal stance appropriate for the euro area as a whole. It should as well make suggestions for the future evolution of the fiscal framework.
(5) The Board should cooperate with independent fiscal institutions as referred to in Article 8a of Council Directive 2011/85/EU (3), as amended by Council Directive (EU) 2024/1265 (4), with a view to promoting exchanges of best practices.
(6) The Chair and the Members of the Board should be selected and appointed by the Commission, after consultation of the European Parliament and of the Council. To the extent possible, the appointments should ensure an appropriate geographical and gender balance.
(7) Taking into account the need of strengthening of the role of the Board, new provisions governing the Board should be adopted.
(8) Decision (EU) 2015/1937 should therefore be repealed and replaced by this Decision,
HAS DECIDED AS FOLLOWS:

Establishment

An independent European Fiscal Board (‘the Board’) is established.

Mission and tasks

1. The Board shall advise the Council and the Commission on the exercise of their functions in the multilateral fiscal surveillance as set out in Articles 121, 126 and 136 TFEU.

2. For the purposes of paragraph 1, the Board shall:
(a) provide a timely ex post evaluation of the implementation of the Union fiscal governance framework;
(b) advise on the prospective fiscal stance appropriate for the euro area as a whole, as well as on the appropriate national fiscal stances that are consistent with it within the rules of the Stability and Growth Pact;
(c) upon request of the Commission or the Council, provide advice on the implementation of the Stability and Growth Pact, including on the extension of the general escape clause in accordance with Article 25 of Regulation (EU) 2024/1263;
(d) cooperate closely with independent fiscal institutions as referred to in Article 8a of Directive 2011/85/EU;
(e) make suggestions for the future evolution of the fiscal framework.

3. The Secretariat of the Board shall without delay inform the Council or the Commission of the requests for advice addressed to the Board by the other institution.

Composition and appointment

1. The Board shall be composed of a Chair and four members.

2. The Commission shall strive to ensure, to the extent possible, appropriate geographical and gender balance in the composition of the Board.

3. The Chair and the members of the Board shall be selected and appointed among internationally renowned experts on the basis of merit, skills, and knowledge to be assessed according to proven analytical experience and competences in the analysis of public finances and in macroeconomics.

4. The Commission shall transmit the list of proposed appointees to the European Parliament and the Council for consultation, and request their views within a month from transmission.

5. The Chair and the members of the Board shall be appointed by the Commission upon proposal of the President, after having consulted the portfolio Commissioner and Vice President as appropriate.

6. The Chair and the members of the Board shall be appointed for a period of 3 years, renewable once.

7. The Chair and the members of the Board shall be appointed as Special Advisors, whose status and remuneration are set out in Articles 5, 123 and 124 of the Conditions of Employment of Other Servants.

Independence

1. In the performance of their tasks, the members of the Board shall act independently and shall neither seek nor take instructions from the Union’s institutions or bodies, from any government of a Member State or from any other public or private body.

2. The members of the Board shall disclose any potential conflict of interest with respect to a particular assessment or opinion to the Chair, who shall take appropriate measures, and may decide that the member concerned shall not participate in the preparation and adoption of that assessment or opinion. The Board shall address potential conflicts of interest of the Chair.

3. Members of the Board have the right to freedom of expression, in line with Article 17a of the Staff Regulations.

Functioning

1. The Chair shall be responsible for overseeing the performance of tasks entrusted to the Board and ensuring its proper functioning. The Chair shall convene and chair the meetings of the Board.

2. The Board shall adopt its advice only when at least three members, including the Chair, are participating. The Board shall seek to adopt advice by consensus. If no consensus can be reached, it shall decide by a simple majority of its members present at the meeting including the Chair, abstentions not counting as a vote. In the event of a tie, the Chair shall have the casting vote.

3. The Board shall establish its own Rules of Procedure.

4. The Board shall operate in accordance with its Rules of Procedure. The meetings of the Board shall not be open to the public. The meetings may take the form of physical, online or hybrid meetings.

5. A memorandum of understanding laying down practical modalities regarding the scope and means of cooperation, including in particular the access to relevant information, shall be concluded between the Board and relevant Commission services. The Board shall conclude equivalent working arrangements with the Council.

6. The Chair of the Board may be invited to present their advice and opinions, as well as their annual report, in the meetings of the Commission or of the Council where these are discussed.

7. Travel and subsistence expenses incurred by the Chair and the members shall be reimbursed by the Commission in accordance with the provisions in force within the Commission. Those expenses shall be reimbursed within the limits of the available appropriations allocated under the annual procedure for the allocation of resources.

Secretariat

1. The Board shall be supported by a Secretariat consisting of a Head of Secretariat and dedicated supporting staff members.

2. In carrying out the tasks assigned to the Board, the Secretariat shall operate only on instructions from the Board. It shall:
(a) assist the Board in preparing its meetings, reviewing the documents to be discussed and monitoring the progress of work against the priorities set out by the Board;
(b) provide high-quality analytical, statistical, administrative and logistical support to the Board under the direction of the Chair;
(c) ensure cooperation with the independent fiscal institutions as necessary for supporting the mission and tasks of the Board;
(d) inform in a timely manner the Commission or the Council about the advisory requests the Board has received from the other institution.

3. The Commission shall appoint the Head of Secretariat, after having consulted the Chair of the Board.

4. If the Chair of the Board has not yet been appointed or their term has expired, the Commission shall directly appoint the Head of Secretariat.

5. The other members of the Secretariat shall be officials, temporary agents, contract agents, or seconded national experts, selected by the Head of Secretariat in agreement with the Chair. All members of the Secretariat shall be selected on the basis of high qualification and experience in areas relevant for the Board’s activity.

6. The Secretariat shall be attached, for administrative purposes, to the Secretariat-General of the Commission.

Transparency

The Board shall report once a year on its activities to the European Parliament, the Council and the Commission. All reports and advice of the European Fiscal Board shall be made public.

Final provisions

1. Decision (EU) 2015/1937 is repealed.

2. This Decision takes effect on the day of its adoption.

Commission Decision (EU) 2024/2109 of 29 July 2024 repealing Decision (EU) 2024/1177 on the suspension of the approval of a civil aviation security equipment with EU Stamp marking

January 13, 2026
Official Journalof the European Union ENL series
2024/2109 31.7.2024
(1) The detailed measures for the implementation of the common basic standards referred to in Article 4(3) of Regulation (EC) No 300/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council(2)include procedures for approval and use of civil aviation security equipment.
(2) Implementing Regulation (EU) 2015/1998 established a harmonised regime for approval of civil aviation security equipment.
(3) Commission Decision (EU) 2021/2147(3)established a consolidated list of approved civil aviation security equipment with ‘EU Stamp’ marking status for equipment confirmed by the common evaluation process of the European Civil Aviation Conference, for the purpose of installation and use throughout the Union.
(4) In accordance with Implementing Regulation (EU) 2015/1998 and in particular point 12.0.4.1 of the Annex to that Implementing Regulation, the Commission adopted Decision (EU) 2024/1177(4)which suspended the ‘EU Stamp’ marking status of a specific configuration of standard C3 Explosive Detection System equipment for cabin baggage (EDSCB), on the basis of information indicating that the performance thereof did not meet the standard for which it had been approved.
(5) Decision (EU) 2024/1177 provided for the possibility for already installed pieces of the configuration to be operated in accordance with the concept of operations for standard C3 EDSCB, with a screening limit of the maximum volume of individual LAG containers not to exceed 330 ml.
(6) Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2024/2108(5), applicable from 1 September 2024, introduces a precautionary measure in the form of a limitation to the maximum volume of individual LAG containers that can be screened by any of the currently approved standard C3 EDSCB equipment configurations in order to maintain the security of air travel.
(7) Decision (EU) 2024/1177 should therefore be repealed, as the equipment concerned is henceforth to be operated in accordance with Implementing Regulation (EU) 2024/2108 amending Implementing Regulation (EU) 2015/1998.
(8) The consolidated Union database listing equipment allowed for installation and use throughout the Union should be updated accordingly,
THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION,
Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,
Having regard to Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2015/1998 of 5 November 2015 laying down detailed measures for the implementation of the common basic standards on aviation security (1), and in particular point 12.0.4.1 of the Annex thereto,
Whereas:
(1) The detailed measures for the implementation of the common basic standards referred to in Article 4(3) of Regulation (EC) No 300/2008 of the European Parliament and of the Council (2) include procedures for approval and use of civil aviation security equipment.
(2) Implementing Regulation (EU) 2015/1998 established a harmonised regime for approval of civil aviation security equipment.
(3) Commission Decision (EU) 2021/2147 (3) established a consolidated list of approved civil aviation security equipment with ‘EU Stamp’ marking status for equipment confirmed by the common evaluation process of the European Civil Aviation Conference, for the purpose of installation and use throughout the Union.
(4) In accordance with Implementing Regulation (EU) 2015/1998 and in particular point 12.0.4.1 of the Annex to that Implementing Regulation, the Commission adopted Decision (EU) 2024/1177 (4) which suspended the ‘EU Stamp’ marking status of a specific configuration of standard C3 Explosive Detection System equipment for cabin baggage (EDSCB), on the basis of information indicating that the performance thereof did not meet the standard for which it had been approved.
(5) Decision (EU) 2024/1177 provided for the possibility for already installed pieces of the configuration to be operated in accordance with the concept of operations for standard C3 EDSCB, with a screening limit of the maximum volume of individual LAG containers not to exceed 330 ml.
(6) Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2024/2108 (5), applicable from 1 September 2024, introduces a precautionary measure in the form of a limitation to the maximum volume of individual LAG containers that can be screened by any of the currently approved standard C3 EDSCB equipment configurations in order to maintain the security of air travel.
(7) Decision (EU) 2024/1177 should therefore be repealed, as the equipment concerned is henceforth to be operated in accordance with Implementing Regulation (EU) 2024/2108 amending Implementing Regulation (EU) 2015/1998.
(8) The consolidated Union database listing equipment allowed for installation and use throughout the Union should be updated accordingly,
HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:
Decision (EU) 2024/1177 is repealed with effect from 1 September 2024.
The ‘Union database on supply chain security – security equipment’ shall be updated accordingly.
This Decision shall enter into force on the day following that of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.

Commission Implementing Decision (EU) 2024/2103 of 30 July 2024 on harmonised standard for direct remote identification for unmanned aircraft drafted in support of Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/945

January 13, 2026
Official Journalof the European Union ENL series
2024/2103 1.8.2024
(1) In accordance with Article 12 of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/945(2), a product which is in conformity with harmonised standards or parts thereof, the references of which have been published in theOfficial Journal of the European Union, is to be presumed to be in conformity with the requirements covered by those standards or parts thereof set out in Parts 1 to 6, 16 and 17 of the Annex to that Delegated Regulation.
(2) By Commission Implementing Decision C(2020) 6148(3)the Commission made a request to the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) for the drafting of harmonised standards in support of Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/945 (the ‘request’).
(3) On the basis of the request CEN drafted the harmonised standard EN 4709-002:2023 addressing the direct remote identification requirements applicable to Unmanned Aircraft Systems and to direct remote identification add-ons.
(4) The Commission together with CEN has assessed whether the harmonised standard EN 4709-002:2023 complies with the request.
(5) Given that harmonised standard EN 4709-002:2023 does not adequately cover the requirements set out in Part 2, point (12)(b), Part 3, point (14)(b), Part 4, point (9)(b), and Part 6 point (3) of the Annex to Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/945 concerning the capability of the direct remote identification signal to be received directly by existing mobile devices, the reference to that standard should be published in theOfficial Journal of the European Unionwith restriction.
(6) Compliance with a harmonised standard confers a presumption of conformity with the corresponding requirements set out in Union harmonisation legislation from the date of publication of the reference of such standard in theOfficial Journal of the European Union. This Decision should therefore enter into force on the day of its publication,
No Reference of the standard
1 EN 4709-002:2023Aerospace series – Unmanned Aircraft Systems – Part 002: Direct Remote identificationRestriction:Harmonised standard EN 4709-002:2023 does not confer a presumption of conformity with the requirements set out in Part 2(12)(b), Part 3(14)(b), Part 4(9)(b), and Part 6(3) of the Annex to Regulation (EU) 2019/945 which require the direct remote identification function to broadcast the signal ‘in a way that it can be received directly by existing mobile devices within the broadcasting range’.
THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION,
Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union,
Having regard to Regulation (EU) No 1025/2012 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 25 October 2012 on European standardisation, amending Council Directives 89/686/EEC and 93/15/EEC and Directives 94/9/EC, 94/25/EC, 95/16/EC, 97/23/EC, 98/34/EC, 2004/22/EC, 2007/23/EC, 2009/23/EC and 2009/105/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council and repealing Council Decision 87/95/EEC and Decision No 1673/2006/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council (1), and in particular Article 10(6) thereof,
Whereas:
(1) In accordance with Article 12 of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/945 (2), a product which is in conformity with harmonised standards or parts thereof, the references of which have been published in the Official Journal of the European Union, is to be presumed to be in conformity with the requirements covered by those standards or parts thereof set out in Parts 1 to 6, 16 and 17 of the Annex to that Delegated Regulation.
(2) By Commission Implementing Decision C(2020) 6148 (3) the Commission made a request to the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) for the drafting of harmonised standards in support of Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/945 (the ‘request’).
(3) On the basis of the request CEN drafted the harmonised standard EN 4709-002:2023 addressing the direct remote identification requirements applicable to Unmanned Aircraft Systems and to direct remote identification add-ons.
(4) The Commission together with CEN has assessed whether the harmonised standard EN 4709-002:2023 complies with the request.
(5) Given that harmonised standard EN 4709-002:2023 does not adequately cover the requirements set out in Part 2, point (12)(b), Part 3, point (14)(b), Part 4, point (9)(b), and Part 6 point (3) of the Annex to Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/945 concerning the capability of the direct remote identification signal to be received directly by existing mobile devices, the reference to that standard should be published in the Official Journal of the European Union with restriction.
(6) Compliance with a harmonised standard confers a presumption of conformity with the corresponding requirements set out in Union harmonisation legislation from the date of publication of the reference of such standard in the Official Journal of the European Union. This Decision should therefore enter into force on the day of its publication,
HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:
The reference of the harmonised standard for direct remote identification of unmanned aircraft systems drafted in support of Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/945 listed in the Annex to this Decision is hereby published in the Official Journal of the European Union with restriction.
This Decision shall enter into force on the day of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.

No
Reference of the standard
1
EN 4709-002:2023
Aerospace series – Unmanned Aircraft Systems – Part 002: Direct Remote identification
Restriction: Harmonised standard EN 4709-002:2023 does not confer a presumption of conformity with the requirements set out in Part 2(12)(b), Part 3(14)(b), Part 4(9)(b), and Part 6(3) of the Annex to Regulation (EU) 2019/945 which require the direct remote identification function to broadcast the signal ‘in a way that it can be received directly by existing mobile devices within the broadcasting range’.

Commission Decision (EU) 2024/2100 of 31 July 2024 confirming the participation of Ireland in Regulation (EU) 2024/1358 of the European Parliament and of the Council on the establishment of Eurodac for the comparison of biometric data

January 13, 2026
Official Journalof the European Union ENL series
2024/2100 2.8.2024
(1) Regulation (EU) 2024/1358 was adopted on 14 May 2024 and entered into force on 11 June 2024. Its provisions are to apply from 12 June 2026, with the exception of Article 26 of that Regulation, which is to apply from 12 June 2029.
(2) By letter of 20 June 2024, Ireland notified its wish to accept and be bound by Regulation (EU) 2024/1358.
(3) The participation of Ireland in Regulation (EU) 2024/1358 should therefore be confirmed.
(4) Since Ireland does not participate in Regulations (EU) 2018/1240(2)and (EU) 2019/818 of the European Parliament and of the Council(3), it should not be bound by the provisions in Regulation (EU) 2024/1358 amending those Regulations.
(5) There are no specific conditions attached to the participation of Ireland in Regulation (EU) 2024/1358 and no transitional measures are necessary,
THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION,
Having regard to Protocol No 21 on the position of the United Kingdom and Ireland in respect of the Area of Freedom, Security and Justice, annexed to the Treaty on European Union and to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Article 4 thereof,
Having regard to the notification by Ireland of its wish to accept and be bound by Regulation (EU) 2024/1358 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 May 2024 on the establishment of ‘Eurodac’ for the comparison of biometric data in order to effectively apply Regulations (EU) 2024/1351 and (EU) 2024/1350 of the European Parliament and of the Council and Council Directive 2001/55/EC and to identify illegally staying third-country nationals and stateless persons and on requests for the comparison with Eurodac data by Member States’ law enforcement authorities and Europol for law enforcement purposes, amending Regulations (EU) 2018/1240 and (EU) 2019/818 of the European Parliament and of the Council and repealing Regulation (EU) No 603/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council (1),
Whereas:
(1) Regulation (EU) 2024/1358 was adopted on 14 May 2024 and entered into force on 11 June 2024. Its provisions are to apply from 12 June 2026, with the exception of Article 26 of that Regulation, which is to apply from 12 June 2029.
(2) By letter of 20 June 2024, Ireland notified its wish to accept and be bound by Regulation (EU) 2024/1358.
(3) The participation of Ireland in Regulation (EU) 2024/1358 should therefore be confirmed.
(4) Since Ireland does not participate in Regulations (EU) 2018/1240 (2) and (EU) 2019/818 of the European Parliament and of the Council (3), it should not be bound by the provisions in Regulation (EU) 2024/1358 amending those Regulations.
(5) There are no specific conditions attached to the participation of Ireland in Regulation (EU) 2024/1358 and no transitional measures are necessary,
HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:
The participation of Ireland in Regulation (EU) 2024/1358 is confirmed.
This Decision shall enter into force on the twentieth day following that of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.

Commission Decision (EU) 2024/2099 of 31 July 2024 confirming the participation of Ireland in Regulation (EU) 2024/1347 of the European Parliament and of the Council on standards for the qualification of third-country nationals or stateless persons as beneficiaries of international protection, for a uniform status for refugees or for persons eligible for subsidiary protection and for the content of the protection granted

January 13, 2026
Official Journalof the European Union ENL series
2024/2099 2.8.2024
(1) Regulation (EU) 2024/1347 was adopted on 14 May 2024 and entered into force on 11 June 2024. Its provisions are to apply from 1 July 2026.
(2) By letter of 27 June 2024, Ireland notified its wish to accept and be bound by Regulation (EU) 2024/1347.
(3) The participation of Ireland in Regulation (EU) 2024/1347 should therefore be confirmed.
(4) Since Ireland does not participate in Council Directive 2003/109/EC(2), it should not be bound by the provision in Regulation (EU) 2024/1347 amending that Directive.
(5) There are no specific conditions attached to the participation of Ireland in Regulation (EU) 2024/1347 and no transitional measures are necessary,
THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION,
Having regard to Protocol No 21 on the position of the United Kingdom and Ireland in respect of the Area of Freedom, Security and Justice, annexed to the Treaty on European Union and to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Article 4 thereof,
Having regard to the notification by Ireland of its wish to accept and be bound by the Regulation (EU) 2024/1347 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 May 2024 on standards for the qualification of third-country nationals or stateless persons as beneficiaries of international protection, for a uniform status for refugees or for persons eligible for subsidiary protection and for the content of the protection granted, amending Council Directive 2003/109/EC and repealing Directive 2011/95/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council (1).
Whereas:
(1) Regulation (EU) 2024/1347 was adopted on 14 May 2024 and entered into force on 11 June 2024. Its provisions are to apply from 1 July 2026.
(2) By letter of 27 June 2024, Ireland notified its wish to accept and be bound by Regulation (EU) 2024/1347.
(3) The participation of Ireland in Regulation (EU) 2024/1347 should therefore be confirmed.
(4) Since Ireland does not participate in Council Directive 2003/109/EC (2), it should not be bound by the provision in Regulation (EU) 2024/1347 amending that Directive.
(5) There are no specific conditions attached to the participation of Ireland in Regulation (EU) 2024/1347 and no transitional measures are necessary,
HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:
The participation of Ireland in Regulation (EU) 2024/1347 is confirmed.
This Decision shall enter into force on the twentieth day following that of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.

Council Decision (CFSP) 2024/2098 of 26 July 2024 appointing the European Union Special Representative for the Great Lakes region

January 13, 2026
Official Journalof the European Union ENL series
2024/2098 29.7.2024
(1) On 20 February 2023 the Council approved conclusions on a renewed Great Lakes strategy of the Union, which included an invitation by the Council to the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy (‘the High Representative’) to submit a proposal to reinstate the position of EU Special Representative (EUSR) for the Great Lakes region.
(2) The EUSR for the Great Lakes region should be appointed for an initial period of 12 months.
(3) The Council and the Commission, assisted by the High Representative, should ensure consistency between the different areas of the Union’s external action in the Great Lakes region and should cooperate closely to that effect. The EUSR should support and cooperate with the institutions in this respect.
(4) The EUSR will implement the mandate in the context of a situation which may deteriorate and could impede the achievement of the objectives of the Union’s external action as set out in Article 21 of the Treaty on European Union,
(a) contributing to peace, stability and security in the Great Lakes region by promoting the de-escalation of tensions and the prevention of conflicts, and supporting dialogue and long-term regional solutions to crises and conflicts, in particular for the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC);
(b) contributing to the transformation of the drivers and root causes of insecurity and instability into shared opportunities and unlocking the Great Lakes region’s full potential;
(c) building a stronger, more comprehensive and more strategic partnership with the countries in the Great Lakes region to enhance prosperity and security, on the basis of common values and interests.
(a) support the High Representative in the implementation of the Council conclusions of 20 February 2023 on a renewed Great Lakes strategy;
(b) establish and maintain close contact and cooperation with the countries of the Great Lakes region, in particular: the DRC, Burundi, Rwanda and Uganda; countries in the wider region with specific political, diplomatic, security or economic interests in the Great Lakes region, including the signatories to the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework (PSCF) for the DRC and the region; the key regional organisations and fora, namely the African Union (AU), the East African Community (EAC), the Southern African Development Community (SADC), the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR), the Economic Community of the Great Lakes Countries and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA); the United Nations, in particular the Special Envoy of the UN Secretary-General for the Great Lakes region and the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO); the international financial institutions; international likeminded partners and other leading regional and international actors; and relevant non-state actors, such as local authorities and communities, civil society, research institutes, the media and the private sector;
(c) support regional mediation and facilitation efforts, such as the Luanda and Nairobi Processes and, if needed and requested by relevant parties and stakeholders, engage directly in mediation, mediation support activities and dialogue in order to preserve and restore peace at any stage and at all levels, including by supporting the negotiation of ceasefire and peace agreements, and promote the inclusion of civil society, women and youth during all stages of peace-making;
(d) provide advice and report on the possibilities for the Union to support conflict prevention, peace processes, stabilisation and peace-consolidation initiatives; in this context, the EUSR, in coordination with relevant stakeholders, may play a role in supporting the implementation of ceasefire and peace agreements and other related agreements, including by providing support for the monitoring of compliance and engaging diplomatically with parties in cases of non-compliance;
(e) provide conflict-sensitive and gender-sensitive advice concerning regional stabilisation, the disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration of armed groups, and security-sector reform in the DRC, including in the context of the withdrawal of MONUSCO;
(f) contribute to the regional efforts aimed at conflict prevention and the transformation of the root causes of insecurity and instability into shared opportunities, by promoting regional cooperation and integration, including in terms of good governance and the rule of law; in particular, focus on the issue of the illegal exploitation and trafficking of natural resources and support initiatives for the development of an African-led model of resource management that is sustainable, fair, environmentally sound and based on human rights, including through engagement with the private sector and civil society;
(g) promote humanitarian principles and access, respect for international humanitarian and human rights law, access to justice, judicial cooperation and transitional justice mechanisms, while paying particular attention to addressing sexual and gender-based violence and violations of women’s and children’s rights, including through forced recruitment;
(h) contribute to a better understanding of the role of the Union among opinion leaders in the Great Lakes region and support strategic and proactive communication of the Union’s goals in the region.
(a) establishing a specific security plan based on guidance from the EEAS, including specific physical, organisational and procedural security measures governing the management of the secure movement of personnel to, and within, the area of responsibility as well as the management of security incidents, and including a contingency plan and evacuation plan;
(b) ensuring that all personnel deployed outside the Union are covered by high-risk insurance, as required by the conditions in the area of responsibility;
(c) ensuring that all members of the EUSR’s team to be deployed outside the Union, including locally contracted personnel, have received, before or upon arriving in the area of responsibility, appropriate security training based on the risk ratings assigned to that area by the EEAS;
(d) ensuring that all agreed recommendations made following regular security assessments are implemented, and providing the Council, the High Representative and the Commission with written reports on their implementation and on other security issues within the framework of the regular progress reports and a final comprehensive mandate implementation report.
THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION,
Having regard to the Treaty on European Union, and in particular Article 33 and Article 31(2) thereof,
Having regard to the proposal from the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy,
Whereas:
(1) On 20 February 2023 the Council approved conclusions on a renewed Great Lakes strategy of the Union, which included an invitation by the Council to the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy (‘the High Representative’) to submit a proposal to reinstate the position of EU Special Representative (EUSR) for the Great Lakes region.
(2) The EUSR for the Great Lakes region should be appointed for an initial period of 12 months.
(3) The Council and the Commission, assisted by the High Representative, should ensure consistency between the different areas of the Union’s external action in the Great Lakes region and should cooperate closely to that effect. The EUSR should support and cooperate with the institutions in this respect.
(4) The EUSR will implement the mandate in the context of a situation which may deteriorate and could impede the achievement of the objectives of the Union’s external action as set out in Article 21 of the Treaty on European Union,
HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:

European Union Special Representative

Mr Johan BORGSTAM is hereby appointed as the European Union Special Representative (EUSR) for the Great Lakes region from 1 September 2024 to 31 August 2025. The Council may decide to extend the mandate of the EUSR, or to terminate it earlier, on the basis of an assessment by the Political and Security Committee (PSC) and a proposal from the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy (‘the High Representative’).

Policy objectives

The mandate of the EUSR shall be consistent with the Union’s foreign policy objectives in the Great Lakes region and in line with the Council conclusions of 20 February 2023 on a renewed Great Lakes strategy. Those objectives include:

(a) contributing to peace, stability and security in the Great Lakes region by promoting the de-escalation of tensions and the prevention of conflicts, and supporting dialogue and long-term regional solutions to crises and conflicts, in particular for the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC);
(b) contributing to the transformation of the drivers and root causes of insecurity and instability into shared opportunities and unlocking the Great Lakes region’s full potential;
(c) building a stronger, more comprehensive and more strategic partnership with the countries in the Great Lakes region to enhance prosperity and security, on the basis of common values and interests.

Mandate

In order to achieve the policy objectives set out in Article 2, the mandate of the EUSR shall be to:

(a) support the High Representative in the implementation of the Council conclusions of 20 February 2023 on a renewed Great Lakes strategy;
(b) establish and maintain close contact and cooperation with the countries of the Great Lakes region, in particular: the DRC, Burundi, Rwanda and Uganda; countries in the wider region with specific political, diplomatic, security or economic interests in the Great Lakes region, including the signatories to the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework (PSCF) for the DRC and the region; the key regional organisations and fora, namely the African Union (AU), the East African Community (EAC), the Southern African Development Community (SADC), the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR), the Economic Community of the Great Lakes Countries and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA); the United Nations, in particular the Special Envoy of the UN Secretary-General for the Great Lakes region and the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO); the international financial institutions; international likeminded partners and other leading regional and international actors; and relevant non-state actors, such as local authorities and communities, civil society, research institutes, the media and the private sector;
(c) support regional mediation and facilitation efforts, such as the Luanda and Nairobi Processes and, if needed and requested by relevant parties and stakeholders, engage directly in mediation, mediation support activities and dialogue in order to preserve and restore peace at any stage and at all levels, including by supporting the negotiation of ceasefire and peace agreements, and promote the inclusion of civil society, women and youth during all stages of peace-making;
(d) provide advice and report on the possibilities for the Union to support conflict prevention, peace processes, stabilisation and peace-consolidation initiatives; in this context, the EUSR, in coordination with relevant stakeholders, may play a role in supporting the implementation of ceasefire and peace agreements and other related agreements, including by providing support for the monitoring of compliance and engaging diplomatically with parties in cases of non-compliance;
(e) provide conflict-sensitive and gender-sensitive advice concerning regional stabilisation, the disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration of armed groups, and security-sector reform in the DRC, including in the context of the withdrawal of MONUSCO;
(f) contribute to the regional efforts aimed at conflict prevention and the transformation of the root causes of insecurity and instability into shared opportunities, by promoting regional cooperation and integration, including in terms of good governance and the rule of law; in particular, focus on the issue of the illegal exploitation and trafficking of natural resources and support initiatives for the development of an African-led model of resource management that is sustainable, fair, environmentally sound and based on human rights, including through engagement with the private sector and civil society;
(g) promote humanitarian principles and access, respect for international humanitarian and human rights law, access to justice, judicial cooperation and transitional justice mechanisms, while paying particular attention to addressing sexual and gender-based violence and violations of women’s and children’s rights, including through forced recruitment;
(h) contribute to a better understanding of the role of the Union among opinion leaders in the Great Lakes region and support strategic and proactive communication of the Union’s goals in the region.

Implementation of the mandate

1. The EUSR shall be responsible for the implementation of the mandate, acting under the authority of the High Representative.

2. The PSC shall maintain a privileged link with the EUSR and shall be the EUSR’s primary point of contact with the Council. The PSC shall provide the EUSR with strategic guidance and political direction within the framework of the mandate, without prejudice to the powers of the High Representative.

3. The EUSR shall work in close coordination with the relevant departments of the European External Action Service (EEAS) and the Commission.

4. The EUSR shall work in close coordination with Union delegations in the Great Lakes region.

5. The EUSR shall be based in the EEAS headquarters, traveling regularly to the Great Lakes region.

Financing

1. The financial reference amount intended to cover the expenditure related to the mandate of the EUSR for the period from 1 September 2024 to 31 August 2025 shall be EUR 1 500 000.
2. The expenditure shall be managed in accordance with the procedures and rules applicable to the general budget of the Union.

3. The management of the expenditure shall be subject to a contract between the EUSR and the Commission. The EUSR shall be accountable to the Commission for all expenditure.

Constitution and composition of the EUSR’s team

1. Within the limits of the EUSR’s mandate and the corresponding financial means made available, the EUSR shall be responsible for constituting a team (‘the EUSR’s team’). The EUSR’s team shall include expertise on specific policy issues as required by the mandate. The EUSR shall keep the Council and the Commission promptly informed of the composition of the EUSR’s team.

2. Member States, the institutions of the Union and the EEAS may propose the secondment of staff to the EUSR. The salary of such seconded personnel shall be covered by the Member State concerned, the institution of the Union concerned or the EEAS, as appropriate. Experts seconded by Member States to institutions of the Union or the EEAS may also be posted to the EUSR’s team. International contracted staff shall have the nationality of a Member State.

3. All seconded personnel shall remain under the administrative authority of the sending Member State, the sending institution of the Union or the EEAS and shall carry out their duties and act in the interest of the mandate of the EUSR.

4. The EUSR’s team shall be co-located with the relevant EEAS departments or Union delegations in order to ensure the coherence and consistency of their respective activities. The EUSR shall facilitate the reopening of a Union office in Goma (DRC), including by temporarily deploying staff from the EUSR’s team there.

Privileges and immunities of the EUSR and the EUSR’s team

The privileges, immunities and further guarantees necessary for the completion and smooth functioning of the EUSR’s mandate and the members of the EUSR’s team shall be agreed with the host party or parties, as appropriate. Member States, the EEAS and the Commission shall grant all necessary support to that end.

Security of EU classified information

The EUSR and the members of the EUSR’s team shall respect the security principles and minimum standards established by Council Decision 2013/488/EU (1).

Access to information and logistical support

1. Member States, the Commission services, the EEAS and the General Secretariat of the Council shall ensure that the EUSR is given access to any relevant information.

2. The Union delegations in the Great Lakes region or Member States, or both, as appropriate, shall provide logistical support in the region.

Security

In accordance with the Union’s policy on the security of personnel deployed outside the Union in an operational capacity under Title V of the Treaty on European Union, the EUSR shall take all reasonably practicable measures, in accordance with the mandate and the security situation in the geographical area of responsibility, for the security of all personnel under the EUSR’s direct authority, in particular by:

(a) establishing a specific security plan based on guidance from the EEAS, including specific physical, organisational and procedural security measures governing the management of the secure movement of personnel to, and within, the area of responsibility as well as the management of security incidents, and including a contingency plan and evacuation plan;
(b) ensuring that all personnel deployed outside the Union are covered by high-risk insurance, as required by the conditions in the area of responsibility;
(c) ensuring that all members of the EUSR’s team to be deployed outside the Union, including locally contracted personnel, have received, before or upon arriving in the area of responsibility, appropriate security training based on the risk ratings assigned to that area by the EEAS;
(d) ensuring that all agreed recommendations made following regular security assessments are implemented, and providing the Council, the High Representative and the Commission with written reports on their implementation and on other security issues within the framework of the regular progress reports and a final comprehensive mandate implementation report.

Reporting

The EUSR shall regularly provide the High Representative, the EEAS and the PSC with oral and written reports. The EUSR shall also report as necessary to Council working parties. Regular written reports shall be circulated through the COREU network. Upon the recommendation of the High Representative or the PSC, the EUSR may provide the Foreign Affairs Council with reports. The EUSR may be involved in briefing the European Parliament.

Coordination

1. The EUSR shall contribute to the unity, consistency and effectiveness of the Union’s action and shall help ensure that all Union instruments and Member State actions are engaged consistently in order to attain the Union’s policy objectives. The activities of the EUSR shall be coordinated with those of the EEAS and the Commission. The EUSR shall provide regular briefings to the Union delegations and Member States’ missions in the Great Lakes region.

2. In the field, close liaison shall be maintained with the heads of Union delegations and Member States’ heads of mission. They shall make every effort to assist the EUSR in the implementation of the mandate. To that effect, the EUSR shall also liaise with other international and regional actors in the field.

Review

The implementation of this Decision and its consistency with other contributions from the Union to the Great Lakes region shall be kept under regular review. The EUSR shall present the Council, the High Representative and the Commission with regular progress reports and a final comprehensive mandate implementation report by 31 May 2025.

Entry into force

This Decision shall enter into force on the date of its adoption.

Commission Decision (EU) 2024/2093 of 31 July 2024 confirming the participation of Ireland in Regulation (EU) 2024/1350 of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing a Union Resettlement and Humanitarian Admission Framework

January 13, 2026
Official Journalof the European Union ENL series
2024/2093 2.8.2024
(1) Regulation (EU) 2024/1350 was adopted on 14 May 2024. Its provisions are to apply from 11 June 2024, with the exception of Article 9(24) of that Regulation, which is to apply from 12 June 2026.
(2) By letter of 27 June 2024, Ireland notified its wish to accept and be bound by Regulation (EU) 2024/1350.
(3) The participation of Ireland in Regulation (EU) 2024/1350 should therefore be confirmed.
(4) There are no specific conditions attached to the participation of Ireland in Regulation (EU) 2024/1350 and no transitional measures are necessary,
THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION,
Having regard to Protocol No 21 on the position of the United Kingdom and Ireland in respect of the Area of Freedom, Security and Justice, annexed to the Treaty on European Union and to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and in particular Article 4 thereof,
Having regard to the notification by Ireland of its wish to accept and be bound by Regulation (EU) 2024/1350 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 May 2024 establishing a Union Resettlement and Humanitarian Admission Framework, and amending Regulation (EU) 2021/1147 (1),
Whereas:
(1) Regulation (EU) 2024/1350 was adopted on 14 May 2024. Its provisions are to apply from 11 June 2024, with the exception of Article 9(24) of that Regulation, which is to apply from 12 June 2026.
(2) By letter of 27 June 2024, Ireland notified its wish to accept and be bound by Regulation (EU) 2024/1350.
(3) The participation of Ireland in Regulation (EU) 2024/1350 should therefore be confirmed.
(4) There are no specific conditions attached to the participation of Ireland in Regulation (EU) 2024/1350 and no transitional measures are necessary,
HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:
The participation of Ireland in Regulation (EU) 2024/1350 is confirmed.
This Decision shall enter into force on the twentieth day following that of its publication in the Official Journal of the European Union.