WRITTEN QUESTION E-1717/96 by Nikitas Kaklamanis (UPE) to the Commission (25 June 1996)

Subject: Violations of press freedom in Croatia

One of the conditions for the granting of PHARE appropriations to any country is known to be freedom of the press.

In Croatia, however, the press is being continually muzzled, as indicated in the European Parliament resolution of 6 June 1996 ((Minutes of 6 June 1996, p. 41. )).

In view of this, will the Commission suspend payments of PHARE aid to Croatia or will it continue them, thereby failing to observe the rules of law which govern the EU?

Answer given by Mr Van den Broek on behalf of the Commission (16 July 1996)

The Commission would point out to the Honourable Member that Croatia has received no assistance under PHARE.