Combating terrorism: criminalisation of offences linked to terrorist activities. Framework Decision

The Council had an initial exchange of views concerning a proposal amending the Framework Decision on combating terrorism.

The Presidency indicated that:

– the text struck the right balance with fundamental rights and freedoms such as freedom of

expression, assembly or of association and the right to respect for family life,

– the text of the Framework Decision should be agreed as regards the charges (Article 3 of the Commission proposal) with the objective of avoiding any contradiction with the Council of Europe Convention, and without jeopardising the process of ratification of the Council of Europe Convention,

– it should be made absolutely clear that the principle of proportionality applied in the implementation of the Framework Decision; a paragraph should be added to the preamble similar in content to Article 12 (2) of the Convention, and that – in order to enhance cooperation, especially with other countries, member states should seek to accelerate procedures for ratification of the Council of Europe Convention.

In the light of the debate, the Presidency concluded that delegations broadly welcomed this Commission proposal.