Brussels, 17 July 2020
The members of the Committee on Culture and Education adopted the report on effective measures to ‘green’ Erasmus+, Creative Europe and the European Solidarity Corps. Željana Zovko, shadow rapporteur for the EPP Group, welcomed the adoption of the report and emphasized its possible impact on the three instruments. The report seeks to improve the experience of the participants by implementing more environmentally friendly measures, such as the promotion of other means of transport, the use of digital tools and the exchange of best practices.“An important aspect of the report is however that we did not change the essence of the programs, being mobility, education and creativity” said Zovko.
The combination of the proposal of the European Green Deal and the ongoing renegotiations of these flagship instruments, are according to Zovko the best momentum to push for a modern and more sustainable update. At the same time, Zovko stressed, these programs can play a crucial role in the economic recovery of the COVID-19 pandemic. “When health risks are reduced, the participants of Erasmus+, the European Solidarity Force and Creative Europe should be able to engage again, boost our tourism and mobility, promote our culture and rebuild the image of the European Union” Zovko stated.
The Committee on Culture and Education adopted the report on 13 July with 23 votes in favour, 3 against and 3 abstentions. The vote in the plenary session is scheduled for September.