European Commission proposes emergency measures against COVID-19
A recent press release from the European Commission outlines how the EU is putting forward a package of almost €530 million in additional financial support under the EU Solidarity Fund (EUSF).
The package will contribute to the efforts of 17 Member States and 3 accession countries (Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czechia, Estonia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Portugal, Romania, Spain and Albania, Montenegro and Serbia) to safeguard public health against the COVID-19 pandemic. This funding will support part of their public expenditure on medical and personal protective equipment, emergency support to the population, and measures of preventing, monitoring and controlling the spread of the disease.
Commissioner for Cohesion and Reforms, Elisa Ferreira said: “The EU Solidarity Fund is a concrete demonstration of European solidarity in action. Since its creation, it has delivered effective assistance and relief to millions of people during difficult times. Last year, we extended its scope to cover major health emergencies. Now we are proposing to mobilise much needed coronavirus-related financial assistance. The EUSF is once again accomplishing its core mission.”
The new aid package also includes €132.7 million of advance payments already received by Germany, Ireland, Greece, Spain, Croatia, Hungary and Portugal. Mobilising the EUSF final payments to the 17 Member States is based on a thorough assessment of the applications submitted, ensuring equal treatment and a consistent approach.
Next steps
The financial contribution proposed by the Commission has to be approved by the European Parliament and the Council. The financial aid will then be disbursed to the applicant countries.
Read the full press release here.
