Background & Purpose

The European Commission wants to update rules on information services for inland waterways, removing the requirement that waterways must cross national borders to be covered by the directive.

Proposals & Debate

The proposal expands the rules to cover countries with inland waterways and ports linked to the trans-European transport network. The Swedish parliament examined this under the principle of subsidiarity and proportionality.

The Decision

The Swedish parliament decided to send a formal statement of concern to EU institutions, arguing that the proposal goes beyond what is necessary to achieve its goals.

Does this affect you?

  • National politicians: Must engage in EU-level scrutiny to protect national decision-making rights.
  • Transport authorities: Monitor potential changes to rules governing inland waterways and ports.

In Practice

  • Sweden sends a formal reasoned opinion to the European Parliament, the Council of Ministers, and the European Commission.
  • The Swedish parliament highlights that the EU proposal violates the proportionality principle.
  • EU institutions must now review Sweden's feedback as part of their ongoing legislative process.