Brussels – The European Commission’s decision to recommend an extension of the escape clause application under the Stability and Growth Pact (SGP) is a step in the right direction, but is not enough to ensure that the fiscal plan delivers the environmental and social objectives of the EU’s green recovery, said Greenpeace.

Greenpeace EU democracy policy adviser Ariadna Rodrigo said: “The Commission is patching up a broken system. The escape clause has allowed European governments to increase spending to reduce the economic impact of the crisis, but if the EU is committed to the green recovery it has promised, we need a wider reform that allows countries to invest in the creation of green and resilient jobs, making the just transition one of the pillars of Europe’s fiscal policy.”

The Commission triggered the escape clause of the SGP in May 2020, effectively removing deficit limits to encourage EU countries to increase public spending to alleviate the economic impact of the pandemic on their national economy.   

Across Europe, millions of people – particularly the young, who will suffer the consequences of the climate and environmental crisis – have demanded credible climate action from national governments and the EU, with over 1.3 million calling for a green recovery.

In mid-February, Greenpeace, alongside trade unions, other NGOs and academics, sent a letter to EU leaders calling for an overhaul of the EU’s fiscal rules to accelerate a swift transition to a green economy.

Contact: 

Ariadna Rodrigo, Greenpeace European Unit democracy policy adviser, +32 (0)479 99 69 22, [email protected]

Greenpeace EU press desk: +32 (0)2 274 1911, [email protected]

For breaking news and comment on EU affairs: www.twitter.com/GreenpeaceEU

Greenpeace is an independent global campaigning organisation that acts to change attitudes and behaviour, to protect and conserve the environment and to promote peace. We do not accept donations from governments, the EU, businesses or political parties. We have over three million supporters, and offices in more than 55 countries.

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