Hearing of Commissioner-designate Michael McGrath

The hearing of Commissioner-designate Michael McGrath, candidate for the Democracy, Justice and the Rule of Law, took place on Tuesday 5 November. As the European Union enters a new phase with the recent appointment of the College of Commissioners, understanding the implications of upcoming EU policy developments is crucial to anticipate changes that could impact European, national and local initiatives. VSE Policy Manager Efthymis Antonopoulos attended the hearing online and summarises the key points below.

During the hearing the Commissioner-designate showed a clear dedication to upholding the Charter of Fundamental Rights, reinforcing his alignment with the EU’s core values – particularly emphasising democracy, human rights, and a solid commitment to upholding the rule of law across all Member States. McGrath outlined a holistic agenda, emphasising the need to protect democratic values, tackle corruption, and ensure judicial independence amid rising internal/external threads. He pledged to uphold the EU’s legal framework, confirming the European Court of Justice as the final authority on European law.

On digitalisation, McGrath pledged to develop the Digital Fairness Act to enhance consumer protection and prevent unlawful exploitative practices. He strongly emphasised the need to protect minors online, committing to fighting harmful practices EU consumers face online, and reducing the risks associated with digital engagement for young users.  

In regard to the ongoing revision of the Victims’ Rights Directive (VRD), McGrath underscored the importance of the recast Directive to ensure comprehensive support for victims across the EU, while emphasising the fundamental role of the European Parliament in preserving key elements of the initial proposal drawn by the Commission.  

Along the same lines, the Commissioner-designate further committed to advancing the protection of women against violence, referencing to the recently adopted rules aimed at combatting gender-based violence and improving support services for female victims.  

Another focal point in the discussion was the digitalisation of justice, which McGrath identified as a priority to enhance efficiency, accessibility, and fairness within EU courts. For him the General Data Protection Regulation does not harm innovation, saying that the EU can enjoy high standards and benefit from new technologies. 

Although McGrath’s intervention addressed several key aspects of victims’ rights and protection, it notably missed important points regarding the specific needs of vulnerable children. There was no mention of ensuring child-friendly justice, which is crucial for making legal processes more accessible and sensitive to the needs of children. Additionally, he did not address the need to guarantee equal protection for all child victims of abuse, exploitation, and trafficking, an essential element in ensuring that the rights and safety of every child are upheld consistently across the EU. 

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