Subject to the approval of Council and Parliament, the European Commission last week voted for a substantial increase of its 2004 budget in favour of the European project for democracy and human rights. 26,625,000 euros are to be added to the 106 Meuro already allocated for the year in course. Two already existing budgetary lines will benefit from the increase: a) support for the development and consolidation of democracy and the rule of law, respect for human rights and fundamental liberties; b) support for the activities of the international penal tribunals and establishment of the International Penal Court. In addition, the Union has agreed to institute two new budgetary lines for a total of 8.125 Meuro: a) measures of aid for the victims of human rights violations; and b) pilot project for the creation of a network of experts in the prevention of conflicts. For further information: http://europa.eu.int/comm/external_relations/human_rights/intro/index.htm.
