The European Commission registered a new European Citizens’ Initiative (ECI) on Mar. 25, titled ‘Fast, convenient, affordable, and above all climate-friendly transportation for all Europeans.’ The initiative calls for measures to make train travel a strong alternative to air travel by creating a robust continental rail network and addressing market imbalances.
The proposal suggests the introduction of an EU-wide aviation fuel tax, removal of value-added tax exemptions with fair pricing measures, and allocation of generated revenues to establish a powerful European rail organization. These steps are aimed at encouraging sustainable transport options across Europe.
According to the Commission, the initiative meets the formal requirements under current legislation and is considered legally admissible. However, the Commission clarified that it has not yet assessed the substance of these proposals. Registration does not affect any future decision or action by the Commission regarding this initiative.
Organizers now have six months to begin collecting signatures. They will then have twelve months to gather at least one million statements of support from citizens in at least seven member states. If these thresholds are met, the Commission must respond with its decision on what actions—if any—it will take regarding the proposal.
The ECI was introduced by the Lisbon Treaty as a tool for citizens to set policy agendas within areas where the Commission holds legislative power. Since its launch in April 2012, 129 initiatives have been registered by citizens seeking legal changes within EU competencies.