Directive

On Thursday, the European Commission filed three lawsuits against Bulgaria at the EU Court of Justice for failing to apply European legislation properly. Two cases concern non-compliance with European requirements, and one involves incorrect application.

BELGRADE - The Serbian government announced on Tuesday it had adopted a new directive to restore the legal order concerning the Jadar lithium mining project to the state it was in prior to a directive that has recently been ruled unconstitutional.

Bulgaria is poised to implement significant changes to its Consumer Protection Act, aligning with EU Directive (EU) 2020/1828 to empower consumers in collective legal actions against merchants. Under the proposed amendments, not only consumer associations but also the Consumer Protection Commission and designated qualified organizations can file representative claims for damages.

The European Commission decided on Wednesday to refer Greece to the EU's Court of Justice for not applying correctly the rules under the Late Payment Directive.

The Late Payment Directive obliges public authorities to pay their invoices within 30 days (or 60 days for public health authorities). 

Twenty years ago, during my mandate as European commissioner for employment, social affairs and equal opportunities, the European Council adopted a directive to eliminate discrimination based on nationality, religion, sexual orientation and disability in employment and the economy.

The European Commission has initiated four infringement procedures against Bulgaria, marking a formal notice sent to the country. Bulgaria now faces a two-month window to respond to the notice, or the Commission may proceed to issue a reasoned opinion.

Greece was referred to the European Union's Court of Justice by the Commission on Thursday for its failure to implement the guidelines concerning maritime spatial planning. 

Violation of EU sanctions will be criminalized in the Union.

The Spanish Presidency of the Council of the EU and the European Parliament have concluded negotiations on European legislation that would introduce criminal acts and penalties for violating sanctions. The directive ensures that those who breach or circumvent the restrictive measures will be prosecuted.

In a significant move, the European Commission (EC) has announced actions against Bulgaria for failure to comply with several crucial EU directives. The EC referred Bulgaria to the Court of Justice of the European Union for not enacting measures in line with the Victims' Rights' Directive.

Bulgaria, part of the EU for nearly two decades, showcases a unique work-rest balance. Despite working more than the EU average, Bulgarians enjoy an average of 36 days off when national holidays are factored in, akin to Austria and Finland.