European Union News - 30 April 2013

The European Commission published the third and final public consultation in its review of the state aid criteria it uses to assess member states' support schemes for films and other audiovisual works. In particular, the Commission consults on the criteria set out in a draft Communication. Contributions to this consultation can be made until the 28 May 2013.

The European Commission announced that some €150 million of funding will be allocated to 20 new international brain research projects. This announcement is made at the same time as the 'European Month of the Brain' initiative is launched. This initiative has as main aim to highlight European research and innovation in the area of neuroscience, cognition and related areas through over 50 events across Europe this May.

Eurostat published its latest figures with regard to the unemployment rate in the euro area and in the EU, which show that the euro area unemployment rate was 12.1% in March 2013, up from 12.0% in February. The EU unemployment rate was 10.9%, stable compared with February. The lowest unemployment rates were recorded in Austria, Germany and Luxembourg, and the highest in Greece, Spain and Portugal.

The 2013 EU Terrorism Situation and Trend Report published by Europol shows that the total number of terrorist attacks and related arrests in the EU significantly increased in 2012, in contrast to previous years. Internet remains a key facilitator for terrorism-related activities.

The European Commission reported that the EU member states did not reach a qualified majority in the Appeal Committee on the Commission proposal to restrict the use of 3 neonicotinoid insecticides. In absence of an agreement between member states, it is now for the Commission to decide on the adoption of the proposed restriction.