Meer documentenJuly infringements package: key decisions
Overview by policy area
In its regular package of infringement decisions, the European Commission takes legal action against Member States that fail to comply with their obligations under EU law. These decisions, covering various EU policy areas, aim to ensure the proper application of EU law for the benefit of citizens and businesses.
The key decisions taken by the Commission are presented below and grouped by policy area.
The Commission is also closing 48 cases where the issues with the Member States concerned have been solved. In these cases, the Commission does not have to pursue the infringement procedure further. A selection of closures is available in today's overview.
The Commission's enforcement activities and Member States' compliance with EU law can be followed through interactive maps and customisable graphs. For more details on the history of a case or to access the full database of infringement decisions, the infringement decisions' register is open for consultation. And more information on the EU infringement procedure can be found in the following Q&A.
1. Environment
(For more information: Anna-Kaisa Itkonen – Tel.: +32 2 295 75 01; Maëlys Dreux – Tel.: +32 229 54673)
Letters of formal notice
Commission calls on Finland to correctly transpose the Waste Framework Directive
The European Commission decided to open an infringement procedure by sending a letter of formal notice to Finland (INFR(2026)2093) for failing to correctly transpose the Waste Framework Directive (Directive 2008/98/EC as amended by Directive 2018/851/EU), which aims to prevent or reduce the generation of waste. The amended Directive sets binding targets for recycling and preparing municipal waste for reuse. It also introduces requirements for Member States to improve their waste management systems and the efficiency of resource use. These requirements are crucial for the EU's competitiveness and the transition to a circular economy. The deadline for Member States to transpose the amended Directive into their national legislation was 5 July 2020. Finland failed to correctly transpose several provisions of the amended Directive. This concerns, among others, the provisions on the scope of municipal waste, on the definition of material recovery, on handling hazardous waste, and on the conditions to derogate from the obligation to ensure separate collection. The Commission is therefore sending a letter of formal notice to Finland, which now has two months to respond and address the shortcomings raised by the Commission. In the absence of a satisfactory response, the Commission may decide to issue a reasoned opinion.
Commission calls on France to comply with EU rules for collecting and treating urban wastewater
The European Commission decided to open an infringement procedure by sending a letter of formal notice to France (INFR(2026)2102) for failing to comply with the requirements of the Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive (Council Directive 91/271/EEC). Effective treatment of urban wastewater contributes to the objectives of the Water Resilience Strategy. Untreated wastewater can put human health at risk and pollutes lakes, rivers, soil and coastal waters and groundwater, including drinking water collection areas. Therefore, the Directive requires that Member States collect and treat their urban wastewater for all agglomerations of 2,000 people or more before it is discharged into the environment. Member States should ensure that discharges from urban wastewater treatment plants remain compliant with the Directive. The Commission's analysis of the latest data reported by France showed that 518 agglomerations do not comply with the Directive. In four agglomerations, only a small share of urban wastewater is collected and in addition the uncollected urban wastewater is discharged as is into sensitive areas. In 416 agglomerations, France fails to ensure that collected urban wastewater is subject to secondary treatment before being discharged into the environment. In 98 agglomerations, France fails to guarantee that collected urban wastewater is subject to a more stringent treatment before being discharged into sensitive areas to remove phosphorus and/or nitrogen. The Commission is therefore sending a letter of formal notice to France, which now has two months to respond and address the shortcomings raised by the Commission. In the absence of a satisfactory response, the Commission may decide to issue a reasoned opinion.
Commission calls on Spain and Malta to ensure periodic review of water permits
The European Commission decided to open infringement procedures by sending a letter of formal notice to Spain (INFR(2026)2099) and Malta (INFR(2026)2115) for failing to correctly transpose the obligation to carry out periodic reviews of water permits under the Water Framework Directive (Directive 2000/60/EC). Full implementation of EU water quality standards is key to protecting human health and the environment. The Directive requires Member States to establish a programme of measures for each river basin district to ensure good status of European water bodies, such as rivers and lakes. Each programme must include measures to control different types of pressures affecting water bodies, such as water abstraction, point source discharges, and diffuse pollution sources. Member States are required to periodically review and update these control measures, including any permits granted, to determine whether they still achieve their objectives and, if necessary, update them. Spanish law requires reviews only in situations where there is new data, relevant plans/strategies, new requirement, or a change on the permit holder's side. The decision on whether to conduct the mandatory review is left to the discretion of the authorities. Malta has failed to put in place a registration requirement for surface water abstraction and a prior authorisation regime to control the abstraction of surface and groundwater. In addition, Maltese law does not ensure a periodic review of the controls over the abstraction of surface and groundwater having a significant impact on water bodies. The Commission is therefore sending letters of formal notice to Malta and Spain, which now have two months to respond and address the shortcomings raised by the Commission. In the absence of satisfactory responses, the Commission may decide to issue reasoned opinions.
Commission calls on Latvia, Lithuania, Hungary and Slovakia to correctly transpose the Drinking Water Directive
The European Commission decided to open infringement procedures by sending a letter of formal notice to Latvia (INFR(2026)2100), Lithuania (INFR(2026)2055), Hungary (INFR(2026)2095) and Slovakia (INFR(2026)2103) for failing to correctly transpose the Drinking Water Directive (Directive (EU) 2020/2184). As underlined in the Water Resilience Strategy, full implementation of EU water quality requirements is key to protecting human health and the environment. The recast Drinking Water Directive aims to protect human health by providing cleaner tap water, updating water quality standards, and tackling pollutants of concern, such as endocrine disruptors and microplastics. By 12 January 2023, Member States were required to transpose the Directive into national law and comply with its provisions. Latvia has failed to correctly transpose several provisions of the Directive. This includes provisions related to points where compliance with the requirements of the Directive must be checked; the obligation to ensure a risk assessment of the domestic distribution systems to secure drinking water safety; minimum hygiene requirements for materials that come into contact with drinking water and remedial action and restrictions in using drinking water where risks to human health are identified. Lithuania has incorrectly transposed several provisions of the Directive. These include exemptions related to maritime vessels that desalinate water, carry passengers and act as water suppliers; points where compliance with the requirements of the Directive must be checked; risk assessment and management of catchment areas used for abstraction points for drinking water; the minimum hygiene requirements established for materials that come into contact with drinking water; required remedial action and restriction on the use of drinking water where risks to human health are identified; public access to information; information on monitoring of implementation and monitoring methods. In Hungary, the identified transposition concerns could lead to incorrect minimum requirements for drinking water; non-compliance with certain parametric values, such as those for acrylamide; incomplete investigation when the parametric values are not met; lack of review of possible derogations under the Directive or incomplete information on measures taken on lead risk. Slovakia has not correctly transposed several provisions of the Directive. This concerns in particular the protection and handling of sensitive information related to drinking water supply; monitoring obligations and risk-based monitoring programmes; as well as requirements concerning the timely adoption of remedial measures where risks to human health are identified. The Commission is therefore sending letters of formal notice to Latvia, Lithuania, Hungary and Slovakia, which now have two months to respond and address the shortcomings raised by the Commission. In the absence of satisfactory responses, the Commission may decide to issue reasoned opinions.
Letters of formal notice and reasoned opinions
The European Commission calls on 12 Member States to meet waste recycling targets
The European Commission decided to open infringement procedures by sending a letter of formal notice to Germany (INFR(2026)2137), Greece (INFR(2026)2138), and Cyprus (INFR(2026)2139), and to send a reasoned opinion to Bulgaria (INFR(2024)2128), Czechia (INFR(2024)2137), Greece (INFR(2024)2132), Spain(INFR(2024)2147), Croatia (INFR(2024)2133), Cyprus (INFR(2024)2131), Hungary (INFR(2024)2134), Malta (INFR(2024)2135), Poland (INFR(2024)2126), Portugal (INFR(2024)2145) and Romania (INFR(2024)2136) for failing to meet several waste recycling targets, based on the latest available data reported by Member States. The decision is part of the Commission's enforcement efforts to remove barriers in the single market in 11 focus areas, as announced in the Communication “A simpler, clearer and better enforced EU Rulebook”. The Waste Framework Directive (Directive 2008/98/EC on waste as amended by Directive (EU) 2018/851) sets legally binding targets for preparing for reuse and recycling of municipal waste. Bulgaria, Czechia, Germany, Greece, Spain, Croatia, Cyprus, Hungary, Malta, Poland, Portugal and Romania have failed to meet the 50% target of preparing for reuse and recycling of municipal waste (such as paper, metal, plastic and glass) which was to be reached by 2020. In parallel, the Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive (Directive 94/62/EC as amended by Directive (EU) 2018/852) applies to all packaging distributed within the European market and any resulting packaging waste. By 31 December 2008, it required that between 55% and 80% of all packaging waste must be recycled. The established recycling goals for various materials include 60% for glass, 60% for paper and cardboard, 50% for metals, 22.5% for plastics, and 15% for wood. Seven Member States have failed to meet several targets for 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023: Croatia missed the targets for total packaging, glass and metals; Cyprus and Portugal missed the target for glass; Greece, Romania and Hungary missed the targets for total packaging and glass; and Malta missed the targets for total packaging, paper and cardboard and metals. Achieving these targets is essential to foster the single market for secondary raw material and enhance circularity. This will contribute to reducing the EU's dependence on third countries and fostering its competitiveness. Increased reuse and recycling also minimise the quantities of waste generated and reduce landfilling, further supporting resource efficiency, circularity and strategic autonomy within the EU. Member States need to boost their implementation efforts to meet the abovementioned obligations, also in view of the increased targets which apply as of 2025, 2030 and 2035 respectively. Based on new data pointing to failure to reach waste targets, the Commission decided to initiate infringement procedures by sending letters of formal notice to Germany, Greece and Cyprus which now have two months to respond and address the shortcomings raised by the Commission. In the absence of satisfactory responses, the Commission may decide to issue reasoned opinions. In addition, the Commission already issued letters of formal notice to Bulgaria, Czechia, Greece, Spain, Croatia, Cyprus, Hungary, Malta, Poland, Portugal and Romania in July 2024. As the failure to reach the concerned targets persists, the Commission has decided to send a reasoned opinion to those countries, which now has two months to respond and take the necessary measures. Otherwise, the Commission may decide to refer the cases to the Court of Justice of the European Union.
Reasoned opinions
Commission calls on Spain to submit the report on the implementation of the measures taken under the Habitats Directive for the 2019 to 2024 reporting period
Today, the European Commission decided to send a reasoned opinion to Spain (INFR(2025)2214) for failing to comply with the reporting obligations of the Habitats Directive (Directive 92/43/EEC). The Directive requires Member States to submit an implementation report to the Commission every six years in an agreed format. This report provides an assessment of the conservation status of the habitats and species covered by the Habitats Directive, based on the status and trends of populations and habitats, as well as the main pressures and threats affecting them. The report helps implement EU nature legislation identifying the most pressing restauration needs while also feeding into further policy development. The deadline for the 2019-2024 reporting cycle was 31 July 2025. The Commission sent a letter of formal notice to Spain on 30 January 2026. Today, the Commission is following up with a reasoned opinion to Spain, which now has two months to respond and take the necessary measures. Otherwise, the Commission may decide to refer the case to the Court of Justice of the European Union.
Commission calls on Slovakia to comply with the Single-Use Plastics Directive
Today, the European Commission decided to send a reasoned opinion to Slovakia (INFR(2025)2008) for failing to correctly transpose the Single-Use Plastics Directive (Directive (EU) 2019/904). The Directive aims to prevent and reduce the impact of certain plastic products on the environment and on human health, as well as to promote the transition to a circular economy with innovative and sustainable business models, products and materials. Slovakia has not correctly transposed some provisions of the Directive. Under the Directive, Member States should introduce extended producer responsibility schemes to cover the necessary costs of waste management and clean-up of litter as well as the costs of awareness raising measures to prevent and reduce such litter. Slovak law does not correctly transpose all aspects of these schemes. For instance, tobacco producers are not obliged to cover the waste collection costs. In addition, the producers of certain products, such as food and beverage containers and cups or lightweight plastic carrier bags, are not obliged to cover the costs of transport and treatment of the litter. Finally, rules on the costs for cleaning up litter are not covered by Slovak legislation. The Commission issued a letter of formal notice to Slovakia in May 2025. In its reply, Slovakia committed to change its legislation to correct the transposition. However, the amending legislation is still not adopted. Therefore, the Commission has decided to issue a reasoned opinion to Slovakia, which now has two months to respond and take the necessary measures. Otherwise, the Commission may decide to refer the case to the Court of Justice of the European Union.
2. Fisheries and maritime affairs
(For more information: Maciej Berestecki - Tel.: +32 2 296 64 83, Anna Wartberger – Tel.: +32 2 298 20 54)
Letters of formal notice
Commission calls on Italy and Portugal to comply with Fisheries Control obligations
The European Commission decided to open infringement procedures by sending letters of formal notice to Italy (INFR (2026)2152) and to Portugal (INFR(2026)2140) for failing to fulfil their obligations under the Fisheries Control Regulation (Regulation (EC) No 1224/2009). Both cases concern the failure to comply with fisheries control obligations to remedy shortcomings identified in national fisheries control systems. In Italy, a significant number of actions set out in its 2019 Fisheries Control Action Plan remain outstanding. This relates to data validation, electronic reporting systems, engine power verification and sales note monitoring. It is the first time that the Commission is pursuing a Member State for failure to comply with obligations directly set out in a Control Action Plan. In addition, over the years, Italy has consistently failed to provide necessary information to the Commission, in breach of the principle of sincere cooperation. In Portugal, authorities were required under the Control Regulation, by December 2013, to introduce a system for automated cross-checking, analysis and verification of fisheries data, including an electronic database to validate this data. However, Portugal has repeatedly delayed the development of this system, making it impossible to identify and investigate inconsistencies and errors in the fisheries control data The prolonged failures by both Member States to comply with their fisheries control obligations undermine the level playing field in the EU. The Commission has therefore decided to send a letter of formal notice to both Member States. Italy and Portugal now have two months to respond and address the longstanding shortcomings raised by the Commission. In the absence of satisfactory responses, the Commission may decide to issue reasoned opinions.
3. Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship and SMEs
(For more information: Siobhan McGarry – Tel.: +32 2 296 47 98; Rüya Perincek – Tel.: +32 460 76 25 10)
Letters of formal notice, additional letter of formal notice and reasoned opinions
Commission opens infringement procedures against Member States over restrictions on energy-related installation and construction services
The European Commission decided to launch infringement procedures by sending letters of formal notice to Bulgaria (INFR(2026)2104), Czechia (INFR(2026)2106), Spain (INFR(2026)2107), Croatia (INFR(2026)2108), Cyprus (INFR(2026)2105), Latvia (INFR(2026)2111), Lithuania (INFR(2026)2110), Hungary (INFR(2026)2109), Poland (INFR(2026)2112), Romania (INFR(2026)2113), and Slovakia (INFR(2026)2114) for imposing restrictive mandatory authorisation or certification schemes for energy installation and construction services. An infringement procedure against France (INFR(2024)2249) on similar grounds is already ongoing. The cases tackle obstacles to the installation of renewable energy equipment, which are created by authorisation and similar requirements. These requirements make it difficult for installers of renewable energy equipment and providers of energy efficiency installations to work across the EU. Less restrictive measures — such as ex-post controls — can be used to ensure the quality of such installation services, rather than restricting market access by imposing mandatory certification schemes or registration requirements. Furthermore, the Commission has identified cases in Bulgaria, Cyprus, Hungary, Latvia and Spain, where Member States impose even broader attestation and registration requirements for construction. Such national provisions mandating authorisation or certification, and their associated obligations, result in market fragmentation, make access to these activities more difficult, and restrict choice for consumers and availability of these services. The decisions are part of the Commission's enforcement efforts to remove barriers in the single market in 11 focus areas, as announced in the Communication ‘A simpler, clearer and better enforced EU Rulebook'. This action aligns with the ‘One Europe, one market' approach as announced by Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and aims to improve the integration of the Single Market in construction and installation services related to the green transition. The Commission considers that these measures infringe the Services Directive (Directive 2006/123/EC) by imposing unjustified requirements in the context of establishment and cross-border service provision. In addition, on a subsidiary basis, they breach the principle of proportionality guaranteed by Articles 49 and 56 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU). In the absence of a satisfactory reply, the Commission may decide to send reasoned opinions.
Commission calls on Member States to notify transposition of the Directive on reducing reporting requirements for economic operators
The European Commission decided to open infringement procedures by sending letters of formal notice to Cyprus (INFR(2026)2149), Malta (INFR(2026)2151) and Finland (INFR(2026)2150), and to send reasoned opinion to Croatia (INFR(2026)0078), Italy (INFR(2026)0085), Austria (INFR(2026)0007), Portugal (INFR(2026)0129) and Romania (INFR(2026)0134) for not notifying the transposition of Directive (EU) 2024/2839 into their legislation. Directive (EU) 2024/2839 reduces reporting requirements for Member States and economic operators in several fields. For economic operators, the reporting requirements concern noise emissions by equipment for use outdoors. The Directive specifies with which reporting obligations economic operators no longer need to comply. Member States which did not notify any measures received a letter of formal notice on 29 January 2026 (January infringements package), whereas Member States that notified measures, which were, however, after assessment considered to be insufficient received a letter of formal notice today. The Member States in question now have two months to address the concerns raised by the Commission. Otherwise, the Commission may decide to send a reasoned opinion to the Member States which have received a letter of formal notice (Cyprus, Malta and Finland) and refer the Member States which received a reasoned opinion (Austria, Croatia, Italy, Portugal and Romania) to the Court of Justice of the European Union with requests for financial sanctions.
Commission calls on Hungary to respect the requirement of transparency when awarding contracts in the mining sector
The European Commission decided to send an additional letter of formal notice to Hungary (INFR(2025)2051) for failing to ensure the equal treatment of economic operators when awarding a contract for several sand and gravel mining sites. The freedom of establishment enshrined in Article 49 TFEU requires that public authorities ensure the equal treatment of economic operators and the transparency of award procedure. The Commission considers that Hungary has failed to fulfil its obligations under Article 49 TFEU (freedom of establishment) by awarding the mentioned contract in a procedure that lacked proper advertising and was tailored to unduly benefit a given economic operator. The contract is unlimited in time and replaced an earlier contract also concluded in violation of EU law that was subject to the letter of formal notice June infringements package sent on 18 June 2025. Considering the high economic value of the mining sites concerned by the new contract, the unlimited duration of that contract and the limited availability of sand and gravel mines in Hungary, economic operators are restricted in their freedom to take up or extend their economic activity in the given Hungarian sector. Therefore, the Commission has decided to send an additional letter of formal notice to Hungary, which now has two months to respond and address the shortcomings raised by the Commission. In the absence of a satisfactory response, the Commission may decide to send a reasoned opinion.
Reasoned opinion
Commission calls on Hungary to ensure compliance with EU rules on the freedom of establishment and the freedom to provide services
Today, the European Commission decided to send a reasoned opinion to Hungary (INFR(2025)4024) for failing to comply with EU rules on the freedom of establishment and the freedom to provide services as set out in the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) and Directive 2006/123/EC on services in the internal market (Services Directive). The Services Directive and Articles 49 and 56 of the TFEU guarantee that businesses and professionals from any Member State can provide their services or establish themselves in another Member State without unjustified or disproportionate restrictions. Hungarian law gives state-controlled company OFFI Zrt. (also known as MKIFK) the exclusive right to provide certified translation services for official use. This includes several additional categories of documents and procedures introduced after Hungary was required to comply with the Services Directive in 2009. The Commission considers that this monopoly and its extensions after the Services Directive came into force constitute an unjustified and disproportionate restriction on both the freedom of establishment and the freedom to provide services. Furthermore, Hungary has failed to notify some measures in this context to the Commission, as required by the Services Directive. The Commission sent Hungary a letter of formal notice on 11 December 2025 (INFR(2025)4024) regarding OFFI Zrt.'s monopoly and lack of notification, but Hungary's response on 23 February 2026 failed to justify the necessity or proportionality of the monopoly and did not address the notification failures. Therefore, the Commission has decided to issue a reasoned opinion to Hungary, which now has two months to respond and take the necessary measures. Otherwise, the Commission may decide to refer the case to the Court of Justice of the European Union.
Referrals to the Court of Justice
Commission decides to refer Hungary to Court of Justice of the EU for imposing price margin restrictions for the sale of food products and drugstore articles
Today, the European Commission decided to refer Hungary to the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) for imposing price margin restrictions which mainly affect non-Hungarian undertakings. One case concerns restrictions with regard to the sale of certain food products by food retailers (INFR(2025)2052). The other case covers similar restrictions for the sale of certain non-food products by drugstores (INFR(2025)2102). The Services Directive (Directive 2006/123/EC) and the freedom of establishment enshrined in Article 49 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) require public authorities to ensure the equal treatment and non-discrimination of economic operators and to refrain from restricting economic activities unless such restrictions are justified to attain certain public interest considerations. Hungary limited the allowed margin between purchase prices and sales prices of products to such a low level that it no longer allows companies to cover their costs, forcing retailers to sell their products at a loss. Hungary wrongly claims that the difference between the sourcing price and the sales price is equal to the profit of the undertakings concerned, without taking into consideration that they also have substantial additional costs, for instance for personnel, real estate and taxes. The Hungarian measures are liable to impose discriminatory and disproportionate requirements in violation of the Services Directive and to hinder or render less attractive the exercise by EU nationals of the freedom of establishment guaranteed by Article 49 TFEU. As the Commission considers that Hungary is still in breach of EU rules, it has decided to refer the cases to the CJEU. More information in the press release.
Commission refers Romania to Court of Justice of the EU for failure to pay pharmacies on time
Today, the European Commission decided to refer Romania (INFR(2024)4004) to the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) for failing to ensure that the National Health Insurance House (CNAS) pays pharmacy operators within the deadlines set by the Late Payment Directive (Directive 2011/7/EU). The decision is part of the Commission's enforcement efforts to remove barriers in the single market in 11 focus areas, as announced in the Communication “A simpler, clearer and better enforced EU Rulebook”.The Commission considers the late payments in Romania to be both systemic and persistent. Under Article 4(4)(b) of the Directive, public entities providing healthcare must settle commercial transactions within a maximum of 60 calendar days. CNAS has consistently exceeded this deadline in its payments to pharmacies supplying medicinal products to patients. By failing to ensure that CNAS pays pharmacy operators within the prescribed time limit, Romania has breached its obligations under the Directive. The Commission sent Romania a first letter of formal notice in April 2024, followed by a reasoned opinion in February 2025 and an additional reasoned opinion in January 2026. The Commission considers that efforts by the authorities have, to date, been insufficient. Therefore, the Commission is referring Romania to the CJEU. More information in the press release.
Letter of formal notice post-judgment (Article 260 TFEU)
Commission calls on Belgium to comply with judgment on late payments
The Commission decided to send a letter of formal notice under Article 260 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) to Belgium (INFR(2019)2299) for failing to comply with the judgment of 5 June 2025 of the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) in case C-543/24. The Court concluded that the federal government, the Walloon Region and the Brussels Capital Region had failed to comply with the payment terms laid down in the Late Payment Directive. The decision is part of the Commission's enforcement efforts to remove barriers in the single market in 11 focus areas, as announced in the Communication “A simpler, clearer and better enforced EU Rulebook” While the Federal government and the Brussels Capital Region have since then complied with the obligations laid down by the Directive in terms of payment times, payment periods in the Walloon Region still exceed the prescribed time limits. The Commission considers that Belgium has not yet taken all the measures necessary to comply with the judgment of the Court of Justice, as payment periods in the Walloon Region continue to exceed the deadlines established by the Directive. Late payments by public authorities can trigger a domino effect, leaving direct suppliers short of cash and disrupting their cash flow, delaying their payments to subcontractors and other business partners, and ultimately disrupting the wider supply chain. The Commission is therefore sending a letter of formal notice to Belgium. Belgium has two months to respond and to take the necessary measures. Otherwise, the Commission may decide to refer the case back to the Court of Justice under Article 260 TFEU and request the imposition of financial penalties.
Commission calls on Hungary to comply with Court judgment and remove additional mining fee applicable for the sale of construction materials
The European Commission decided to send a letter of formal notice to Hungary (INFR(2022)4009) under Article 260 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) for failing to comply with the judgment of the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) in case C-144/24. In its judgment of 22 January 2026, the CJEU found that Hungary had failed to fulfil its obligations under Article 49 TFEU (freedom of establishment) by adopting the provisions on the payment of an additional mining fee. The additional mining fee corresponds to 90% of the difference between the official price determined in the Hungarian Decree and higher selling prices for construction products such as sand, gravel and cement. The measure applies mainly, and systematically, to other Member States' businesses established in Hungary, as the scope of the measure is defined in such way as to predominantly cover non-Hungarian operators. These businesses are prevented from reacting to cost increases by adapting their prices, as most of any price increases must be paid to the Hungarian Government as a penalty, which makes the production of construction materials in Hungary economically unsustainable for these undertakings. The additional mining fee therefore discriminates against economic operators from other Member States and creates barriers to the detriment of growth and prosperity of citizens and businesses, including in Hungary. Therefore, the Commission is sending a letter of formal notice because Hungary has maintained a barrier to the freedom of establishment that the CJEU has already declared to be in violation of EU law. The Commission has also noted Hungary's attempt to maintain the restriction by transferring it from one piece of national legislation to another. Hungary now has two months to respond to the arguments put forward by the Commission. Otherwise, the Commission may refer the case back to the CJEU under Article 260 TFEU and request the imposition of financial sanctions.
Closure
Commission decides to close infringement case against Slovakia following removal of discriminatory fuel pricing
Today, the European Commission decided to close an infringement case against Slovakia (INFR(2026)4009) following the abolition of discriminatory fuel prices for drivers of cars registered abroad. Prior to the cancellation of the discriminatory rules, the price of diesel for drivers of cars registered outside Slovakia was regulated and fixed on a weekly basis following the evolution of prices in neighbouring countries, while drivers of cars registered in Slovakia enjoyed a lower market price. The measure was adopted on 18 March 2026 for 30 days but prolonged on 17 April 2026 for additional 30 days. The measures adopted by Slovakia breached several provisions of EU law related to Single Market, namely the free movement of goods (Treaty on the Functioning of the EU (TFEU)), the free movement of services (TFEU and Directive 2006/123/EC), the free movement of workers and their equal treatment (TFEU and Regulation No 492/2011), the free movement of road transport services (Regulation (EC) No 1072/2009 and Regulation (EC) No 1073/2009) and the freedom of establishment (TFEU or Directive 2006/123/EC). In addition, the measures concerned were not notified prior to their adoption, in breach of Directive (EU) 2015/1535 (Single Market Transparency Directive). Following the letter of formal notice (April infringement package) sent by the Commission to Slovakia on 29 April 2026, Slovakia ended the breach on 6 May 2026 by amending its legislation and terminating the effects of the discriminatory measures, which ceased to apply as of 8 May 2026. The Commission considers that the issue has been resolved and has therefore decided to close the case. This case represents a success story of the Commission's swift enforcement action in situations with an immediate impact on citizens.
4. Migration and Home Affairs
(For more information: Markus Lammert – Tel.: +32 2 296 75 33; Fiorella Boigner – Tel.: +32 2 299 37 34)
Letters of formal notice
Commission calls on Bulgaria and Poland to properly implement the EU rules on the marketing and use of explosives precursors
The European Commission decided to open infringement procedures by sending letters of formal notice to Bulgaria (INFR (2026)2118) and Poland (INFR (2026)2119) for failing to ensure the correct application of the Regulation on the marketing and use of explosives precursors (Regulation (EU) 2019/1148). The Regulation establishes EU-wide rules regarding substances and mixtures that could be misused to make homemade explosives. It limits the availability of those substances or mixtures to the general public and requires any suspicious transactions involving the substances to be reported to the appropriate authorities. The Commission considers that Bulgaria failed to comply with a number of obligations under the Regulation, such as the obligations to set up one or more national contact points for reporting suspicious transactions, disappearances and thefts; to designate the competent authority for the implementation of the Regulation; to regularly disseminate the relevant guidelines; to lay down rules on penalties; and to contribute to the yearly Monitoring Programme. As to Poland, the Commission considers that it failed to comply with its obligations to regularly disseminate the relevant guidelines and to lay down rules on penalties. Bulgaria and Poland now have two months to respond to the letter and address the shortcomings identified by the Commission. In the absence of a satisfactory response, the Commission may decide to issue a reasoned opinion.
Commission calls on Cyprus, Lithuania, Poland and Slovenia to correctly transpose the provisions of the Directive on combating money laundering
The European Commission decided to open infringement procedures by sending letters of formal notice to Cyprus (INFR(2026)2086), Lithuania (INFR(2026)2096), Poland (INFR(2026)2097) and Slovenia (INFR(2026)2098) for failing to correctly transpose some of the provisions of the Directive on combating money laundering (Directive (EU) 2018/1673), including regarding penalties and the money laundering offences. The Directive defines criminal offences and sanctions for money laundering, facilitates police and judicial cooperation between EU Member States and prevents criminals from taking advantage of diverging legal systems across the EU. The Directive introduced several important novelties. It allows the prosecution of money laundering even without a prior conviction for the underlying criminal offence that generated the money and without proving all details of that offence (stand-alone money laundering). It also makes clear that persons can be prosecuted for laundering proceeds generated from their own criminal activities (self-laundering). The Directive also foresees circumstances that allow for a harsher punishment for instance when a person or entity with a specific duty commits money laundering (e.g. banks, notaries etc.). In addition, the Directive clarifies which Member State is competent in cross-border cases. In view of the incorrect transposition of the Directive including penalties and aggravating circumstances that allow for a harsher punishment, the Commission is sending letters of formal notice to Cyprus, Lithuania, Poland and Slovenia. These Member States now have two months to respond and address the shortcomings raised by the Commission. In the absence of a satisfactory response, the Commission may decide to issue a reasoned opinion.
5. Justice
(For more information: Markus Lammert – Tel.: +32 2 296 75 33; Antoine Lomba- Tel.: +32 2 299 32 33)
(For more information on Equality: Eva Hrncirova - Tel.: +32 2 298 84 33; Anna Gray – Tel.: +32 2 298 08 73)
Letters of formal notice, additional letter of formal notice and reasoned opinion
Commission calls on Belgium, Bulgaria, Czechia, Germany, the Netherlands, Poland and Slovenia to comply with rules on protection of personal data
Today, the European Commission decided to send letters of formal notice to Bulgaria (INFR(2026)4013), Belgium (INFR(2026)2131), Czechia (INFR(2026)2127), the Netherlands (INFR(2026)2129), Poland (INFR(2026)2130) and Slovenia (INFR(2026)2128), as well as a reasoned opinion to Germany (INFR(2022)2019), for failing to comply with the Law Enforcement Directive (Directive (EU) 2016/680). The Directive governs the processing of personal data by law enforcement authorities for them to perform their duties in a way that protects the fundamental right to data protection. All of these Member States receiving letters of formal notice today incorrectly transposed the rules on the exercise of data protection rights. In April 2022, the Commission sent a letter of formal notice against Germany for failing to fully transpose the Directive. To date, Germany has not yet adopted transposition measures relevant for the processing of data by the Federal Police. The Commission is therefore sending a letter of formal notice to Belgium, Bulgaria, Czechia, the Netherlands, Poland and Slovenia, and a reasoned opinion to Germany. These Member States now have two months to respond and address the shortcomings raised by the Commission. In the absence of a satisfactory response, the Commission may decide to issue a reasoned opinion to Belgium, Bulgaria, Czechia, the Netherlands, Poland, and Slovenia, and to refer Germany to the Court of Justice of the European Union with a request for financial sanctions.
Commission urges Slovenia to comply with cross-border judicial procedures on European Arrest Warrant
Today, the European Commission decided to send a second additional letter of formal notice to Slovenia (INFR(2020)2313) for failing to comply with the Framework Decision on the European arrest warrant and the surrender procedures between Member States (Council Framework Decision 2002/584/JHA). The European arrest warrant (EAW) is a simplified cross-border judicial procedure to surrender a requested person for the purpose of prosecution or executing a custodial sentence or detention order. Operational since 1 January 2004, the EAW has replaced the lengthy extradition procedures that existed between EU Member States. The Commission sent a letter of formal notice to Slovenia in February 2022, followed by an additional letter of formal notice in March 2024 and a reasoned opinion in May 2025. The Commission considered that Slovenia had failed to correctly transpose the provisions on the optional grounds for refusal to surrender. After reviewing the changes to Slovenia's law that were notified in March 2026, the Commission considers that Slovenia has introduced additional mandatory grounds for refusing the execution of an EAW on grounds of fundamental rights that are not provided in EU law. The EAW rests on the principle of mutual recognition, under which Member States presume that other Member States comply with the Charter of Fundamental Rights. This presumption can be lifted only in exceptional circumstances and under strict criteria established by case-law. To add mandatory grounds for refusing an EAW risk undermining the uniform application of the Framework Decision and the mutual trust on which it is based. These new provisions were introduced by Slovenia only recently. To follow the due process of the infringements cycle and give Slovenia the opportunity to address these new issues, the Commission has decided to issue a second additional letter of formal notice to Slovenia. Slovenia has two months to address the shortcomings raised by the Commission. Otherwise, the Commission may decide to send an additional reasoned opinion.
Reasoned opinions
Commission calls on Slovakia to correctly transpose the rules on legal aid for suspects and accused persons in criminal proceedings
The European Commission decided to send a reasoned opinion to Slovakia (INFR(2025)2212) for failing to correctly transpose EU rules on legal aid in criminal proceedings (Directive (EU) 2016/1919). EU law ensures that the basic rights of suspects and accused persons are protected. Common minimum standards are necessary for judicial decisions taken by one Member State to be recognised by others. The Commission found that Slovakia only grants legal aid to accused persons, meaning persons who are formally charged with an offence, and not to suspects, who are persons suspected of an offence by law enforcement authorities but not formally charged. Slovakia also fails to guarantee legal aid in certain circumstances when a person is brought before justice to decide on pre-trial detention. It also does not provide access to legal aid for persons arrested in another Member State based on a European Arrest Warrant issued by Slovakian authorities. The Commission sent a letter of formal notice to Slovakia in January 2026. To date, Slovakian authorities have still not addressed all the shortcomings raised. Therefore, the Commission has decided to issue a reasoned opinion against Slovakia, which now has two months to respond and take the necessary measures. Otherwise, the Commission may decide to refer the case to the Court of Justice of the European Union.
Commission calls on Poland to fully transpose the Directive criminalising the violation of Union restrictive measures
Today, the European Commission decided to send a reasoned opinion to Poland (INFR(2025)0239) for failing to fully incorporate into national law the Directive on the criminalisation of the violation of Union restrictive measures (Directive (EU) 2024/1226). The Directive establishes common rules harmonising the defining of criminal offences and penalties for the violation of Union restrictive measures. It seeks to prevent the circumvention of Union restrictive measures, including those adopted following Russia's aggression against Ukraine. Harmonising national criminal law in this field facilitates the investigation and prosecution of violations of EU sanctions in all Member States, making EU restrictive measures more effective. In July 2025, the Commission decided to open infringement procedures by sending a letter of formal notice to several Member States for failing to communicate full transposition measures of the Directive. To date, Poland has still not communicated full transposition measures. Therefore, the Commission has decided to issue a reasoned opinion to Poland, which now has two months to respond and take the necessary measures. Otherwise, the Commission may decide to refer the case to the Court of Justice of the European Union with a request for financial sanctions.
Closure
Commission closes infringement procedure against Slovakia after repeal of measures undermining whistleblower protection
Today, the Commission decided to close the infringement procedure against Slovakia (INFR(2026)2012), which the Commission had opened in January 2026 for breach of the Whistleblower Directive ((EU) 2019/1937) and the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights. The Whistleblower Directive requires that Member States have effective, independent channels to report breaches of EU rules confidentially, that these reports are effectively investigated and acted upon, and that whistleblowers are protected from retaliation. It requires that Member States establish competent authorities that are autonomous and independent and ensure the confidentiality of whistleblowers. The infringement procedure was launched following the adoption by the Slovak Parliament, in December 2025, of amendments to the national whistleblower protection framework that raised serious concerns regarding compliance with EU law, notably by providing for the dissolution of the Slovak Whistleblower Protection Office and introducing a mechanism that could expose whistleblowers to retaliation and limit their access to effective remedies. Following the Commission's swift intervention and a constructive dialogue with the Slovak authorities, Slovakia repealed the contested amendment before it could take effect. As a result, the concerns identified by the Commission have been addressed, including those relating to the independence of the Slovak Whistleblower Protection Office. The Commission therefore considers that the issues raised in its letter of formal notice have been satisfactorily resolved and has decided to close the infringement procedure. The Commission will continue to monitor the correct implementation and application of the Whistleblower Directive across all Member States.
6. Climate
(For more information: Anna-Kaisa Itkonen – Tel.: +32 2 295 75 01; Ana Crespo Parrondo – Tel.: +32 2 298 13 25)
Letter of formal notice
Commission calls on Greece to comply with EU rules on the mutual recognition of certificates for fluorinated greenhouse gas technicians
The European Commission decided to open an infringement procedure by sending a letter of formal notice to Greece (INFR(2026)4011) for failing to comply with Regulation (EU) 2024/573 on fluorinated greenhouse gases (F-gases). The F-gases Regulation aims to reduce the emissions of these potent greenhouse gases, which have a significant impact on climate change. To support this objective, the Regulation establishes certification requirements for individuals carrying out activities involving F-gases and their alternatives. Article 10(10) of the Regulation provides for the mutual recognition across the Union of training attestations and certificates issued by Member States. The transition away from F-gases towards climate-friendly alternatives requires a sufficient number of appropriately trained and certified technicians across the EU. Effective mutual recognition of certificates issued nationally is therefore essential to ensure that the Union has the skilled workforce necessary to support the reduction in the use of these gases and the uptake of alternative refrigerants. In Greece, F-gas technicians holding certificates issued by another EU country cannot access work as refrigeration technicians solely on the basis of those certificates. Instead, they are required to undergo additional assessment procedures under national legislation before being allowed to pursue the relevant activities. The Commission considers that the Greek legislation does not comply with the Regulation. The Commission is therefore sending a letter of formal notice to Greece, which now has two months to respond and address the shortcomings identified by the Commission. In the absence of a satisfactory response, the Commission may decide to issue a reasoned opinion.
7. Taxation
(For more information: Louise Bogey – Tel.: +32 2 296 97 76; Bridget Moylan – Tel.: +32 2 298 28 44)
Letters of formal notice
Commission calls on Germany, France and Italy to align its legislation on the taxation of dividends received from subsidiaries in other Member States
The European Commission decided to open infringement procedures by sending a letter of formal notice to Germany (INFR(2026)2089), France (INFR(2026)2087) and Italy (INFR(2026)2088) for failing to bring their legislation on the taxation of dividends received from subsidiaries in other Member States in line with the Parent-Subsidiary Directive. German, French and Italian tax legislation lead to a fragmentation of common company taxation rules laid down in the Parent-Subsidiary as they tax the dividends received by a parent company from subsidiaries resident in other member States multiple times beyond what is allowed in the Directive. This has a negative bearing on competitiveness and investment for mid-sized and larger companies operating across the Single Market. The decisions are part of the Commission's enforcement efforts to remove barriers in the single market in 11 focus areas, as announced in the Communication “A simpler, clearer and better enforced EU Rulebook” (COM(2026) 380 final, Annex II). The Commission is therefore sending a letter of formal notice to Germany, France and Italy, which now have two months to respond and address the shortcomings raised by the Commission. In the absence of a satisfactory response, the Commission may decide to issue a reasoned opinion.
Reasoned opinions
Commission calls on Belgium, Bulgaria and Cyprus to finalise the implementation of the information exchange rules on administrative cooperation in the field of taxation
Today, the European Commission has decided to send reasoned opinions to Belgium (INFR(2026)0015), Bulgaria (INFR(2026)0021) and Cyprus (INFR(2024)0030) for failing to fully transpose Directive (EU) 2025/872, which amends the Directive on administrative cooperation in the field of taxation (Directive 2011/16/EU). The Directive requires Member States to standardise the collection of the top-up tax information return and to automatically exchange the information in that return. The top-up tax information return is part of the filing obligations laid down in Directive (EU) 2022/2523 (Pillar 2 Directive) on ensuring a global minimum level of taxation for multinational enterprise groups and large-scale domestic groups in the Union. Belgium, Bulgaria and Cyprus have so far not adopted or notified all national transposition measures, while tax authorities across the EU should be able to start exchange information on multinational companies in scope of the Pillar 2 Directive as from June 2026. In January 2026, the Commission sent letters of formal notice to the Member States for failing to fully implement the rules of the Directive. Therefore, the Commission has decided to issue reasoned opinions to Belgium, Bulgaria and Cyprus, which now have two months to respond and take the necessary measures. Otherwise, the Commission may decide to refer the cases to the Court of Justice of the European Union with requests for financial sanctions.
Commission calls on France to fully transpose the new EU VAT rules for the special SMEs scheme
Today, the European Commission decided to send a reasoned opinion to France (INFR(2025)2150) for failing to meet its obligations to provide all the IT functionalities necessary to ensure the exchange of information between Member States as from 1 January 2025 requested by Directive (EU) 2020/285 on the special scheme for small enterprises. The Directive allows small enterprises to sell goods and services without charging VAT and alleviates their VAT compliance obligations. Moreover, small enterprises established in a Member State may get a VAT exemption when they sell in another Member State, just like small businesses based in that country. To facilitate this across the EU, IT systems should permit the exchange of information between Member States. According to the information at the disposal of the Commission, the French IT system does not currently provide all the functionalities needed to ensure the exchange of information necessary for the correct operation of this special scheme. In October 2025, the Commission sent a letter of formal notice to the Member State for failing to fully implement the rules of the Directive. Therefore, the Commission has decided to issue a reasoned opinion to France, which now have two months to respond and take the necessary measures. Otherwise, the Commission may decide to refer the case to the Court of Justice of the European Union.
8. Mobility and Transport
(For more information: Anna-Kaisa Itkonen – Tel.: +32 2 295 75 01; Anni Juusola – Tel.: +32 2 296 09 86)
Additional letter of formal notice
Commission calls on Sweden to fully implement Single European Sky rules
The European Commission decided to send an additional letter of formal notice to Sweden (INFR(2023)2060) for failing to implement EU Air Traffic Management (ATM) rules in a timely manner, as required under the Common Project 1 Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/116, and for failing to apply effective, proportionate and dissuasive penalties, in line with Regulation (EC) No 549/2004. To date, Sweden has not implemented certain required air traffic management functionalities within the deadlines, nor it has taken all the necessary measures to ensure the adherence by operational stakeholders to the requirements and timeframes established under Implementing Regulation (EU) 2021/116. The Commission first sent Sweden a letter of formal notice in July 2023, followed by an additional letter of formal notice in June 2024. However, a number of shortcomings remain unaddressed and new shortcomings have materialised. In particular, the ATM sub-functionality on departure management synchronised with pre-departure sequencing has not yet been implemented at Stockholm Arlanda Airport. Furthermore, following the issue of the first additional letter of formal notice, evidence showed that two additional ATM sub-functionalities – the Initial Airport Operation Plan and the Collaborative Network Operations Plan – have also neither been implemented nor operated at Stockholm Arlanda Airport, contrary to the requirements of the Common Project 1 Implementing Regulation. In addition, no enforcement measures or penalties under Article 9 of Regulation (EC) No 549/2004, have been applied so far in relation to these delays. The Commission is therefore sending a second additional letter of formal notice to Sweden, which now has two months to respond and take the necessary measures. In the absence of satisfactory responses, the Commission may decide to issue a reasoned opinion.
Reasoned opinions
Commission calls on 10 Member States to transpose the amended Directive on Intelligent Transport Systems
Today, the European Commission decided to send a reasoned opinion to Belgium (INFR(2026)0010), Czechia (INFR(2026)0033), Ireland (INFR(2026)0080), Greece (INFR(2026)0054), Croatia (INFR(2026)0074), Cyprus (INFR(2026)0025), Luxembourg (INFR(2026)0090), Malta (INFR(2026)0102), Poland (INFR(2026)0116) and Slovenia (INFR(2026)0142) for failing to fully transpose into national law, by 21 December 2025, Directive (EU) 2023/2661, amending Directive 2010/40/EU on Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS). The Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) play an important role in achieving efficient and safe, sustainable and automated, interconnected and resilient transport system in the EU. The amended Directive aims to respond to the emergence of new road mobility options, mobility apps, and connected and automated mobility. The amended Directive also aims to ensure that ITS applications enable the seamless integration of road transport with other modes of transport, for example with rail, to improve their efficiency and accessibility. In January 2026, the Commission sent letters of formal notice to 20 Member States for not having complied with their transposition obligations. As half of those Member States have notified by now their respective transposition measures, the Commission is sending a reasoned opinion only to Belgium, Czechia, Ireland, Greece, Croatia, Cyprus, Luxembourg, Malta, Poland, and Slovenia which now have two months to respond and take the necessary measures to comply with their obligations. In the absence of a satisfactory response, the Commission may decide to refer the cases to the Court of Justice of the European Union with requests to impose financial penalties.
9. Financial Stability, Financial Services and Capital Markets Union
(For more information: Siobhan McGarry - Tel.:+32 2 296 47 98; Saul Louis Goulding – Tel.: +32 229-64735)
Letters of formal notice and additional letter of formal notice
Commission calls on Spain, France and Latvia to comply with notification obligations under the Digital Operational Resilience Act Regulation
The European Commission decided to open infringement procedures by sending a letter of formal notice to Spain (INFR(2026)2141), France (INFR(2026)2142), and Latvia (INFR(2026)2144 for failing to notify national measures required under the Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA) Regulation (Regulation (EU) 2022/2554). While regulations are directly applicable and binding in their entirety, Article 53 of the DORA Regulation requires Member States to notify the Commission, the European Banking Authority (EBA), the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) and the European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority (EIOPA) of the national laws, regulations and administrative provisions implementing Chapter VII of the Regulation. These provisions concern administrative penalties and remedial measures, as well as the powers of competent authorities where Member States provide for criminal penalties instead of administrative sanctions. The deadline for notifying these measures was 17 January 2025. To date, Spain, France and Latvia have not notified the Commission of all measures required under Article 53 of the DORA Regulation. The effective enforcement framework established by DORA is an essential element of the Union's efforts to strengthen the digital operational resilience of financial entities, including banks, insurance undertakings and investment firms, in an increasingly digitalised financial sector. The Commission is therefore sending letters of formal notice to the Member States concerned, which now have two months to respond and address the shortcomings identified by the Commission. In the absence of a satisfactory response, the Commission may decide to issue a reasoned opinion.
Commission calls on Spain to correctly transpose the second Payment Services Directive
The European Commission decided to open an infringement procedure by sending a letter of formal notice to Spain (INFR(2026)2148), for failing to correctly transpose the second Payment Services Directive (Directive (EU) 2015/2366). Under the second Payment Services Directive, when a payment institution applies to provide payment services in a host Member State (other than its home Member State, i.e. where it is authorised to operate), the home Member State's competent authority must communicate its final decision to the host authority and the payment institution within three months of receiving the application. This requirement ensures the smooth functioning of the passporting regime — a key pillar of the EU's single market for payment services. Spain's national legislation does not correctly transpose the obligation of the competent authority (Banco de España) to communicate its final decisions (both positive and negative ones) on passporting applications to the host Member State's authorities, and the payment institution concerned, but only the negative ones. This risk undermines the right of establishment and the freedom to provide services within the EU. The Commission is therefore sending a letter of formal notice to Spain, which now has two months to reply and take the necessary measures. In the absence of a satisfactory response, the Commission may decide to issue a reasoned opinion.
Referral to the Court of Justice
Commission decides to refer Spain to the Court of Justice of the European Union for failing to transpose the Directive on certain aspects of the minimum requirement for own funds and eligible liabilities
Today, the European Commission decided to refer Spain (INFR(2025)0051) to the Court of Justice of the European Union for failing to transpose the Directive as regards certain aspects of the minimum requirement for own funds and eligible liabilities (Directive (EU) 2024/1174, also known as the Daisy Chain Directive). This Directive amends certain aspects of the minimum requirement for own funds and eligible liabilities (MREL) to be met by banks and other entities, more specifically by allowing MREL to be set on a consolidated basis for a broader scope of entities and by introducing a dedicated treatment for entities that are expected to be liquidated in normal insolvency proceedings when they fail. Member States were required to transpose this Directive in full by 13 November 2024. To date, all other EU Member States have declared complete transposition of the Directive. However, national implementing measures have still not been notified by Spain. The Commission sent a letter of formal notice to Spain on 31 January 2025 and subsequently a reasoned opinion on 17 July 2025. The Commission considers that efforts by the national authorities of Spain have, to date, been insufficient since they have still not notified the Commission of the full transposition of the Directive into their national laws. Therefore, the Commission has decided to refer this case to the Court of Justice with a request for financial sanctions. More information is in the press release.
10. Digital economy
(For more information: Thomas Regnier - Tel.: +32 2 299 10 99, Patricia Poropat – Tel.: + 32 2 298 04 85)
Referrals to the Court of Justice
Commission refers Ireland, Spain, France and the Netherlands to the Court of Justice for failing to transpose the rules on cybersecurity
Today, the European Commission decided to refer Ireland (INFR(2024)0279), Spain (INFR(2024)0270), France (INFR(2024)0274) and the Netherlands (INFR(2024)0288) to the Court of Justice of the European Union for failing to notify measures transposing the NIS2 Directive on securing network and information systems (Directive (EU) 2022/2555) into national law. The Directive strengthens EU cybersecurity by setting high standards for entities operating in 18 critical sectors, including health, energy, transport, and the public sector. Its full implementation is key to improving the EU's resilience and the incident response capacity of public and private entities operating in these critical sectors, and of the EU as a whole. The Commission sent letters of formal notice on 28 November 2024 and reasoned opinions on 7 May 2025. As these Member States have not yet notified complete transposition of the Directive, the Commission is referring them to the Court of Justice. The referrals include a request to the Court to impose financial sanctions, a lump sum and daily penalties until notification of complete transposition. More information is in the press release.
11. Jobs and social rights
(For more information: Eva Hrncirova - Tel.: +32 2 298 84 33; Eirini Zarkadoula - Tel.: +32 2 295 70 65)
Letters of formal notice
Commission calls on Czechia, Estonia, Ireland, Greece, Hungary, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Finland to comply with EU rules on transparent and predictable working conditions
The European Commission decided to open infringement procedures by sending a letter of formal notice to Czechia (INFR(2026)2116), Estonia (INFR(2026)2117), Ireland (INFR(2026)2124), Greece (INFR(2026)2123), Hungary (INFR(2026)2121), the Netherlands (INFR(2026)2125), Portugal (INFR(2026)2122), and Finland (INFR(2026)2120) for failing to fully align their national legislation with the Directive on transparent and predictable working conditions (Directive (EU) 2019/1152). The Directive ensures that all workers in the EU have clear, upfront information about their essential employment terms, such as working hours, pay, and job stability. It also strengthens protections against abusive practices, including unpredictable schedules and last-minute assignments, while guaranteeing worker rights like cost-free mandatory training. The Commission is therefore sending a letter of formal notice to eight Member States, which now have two months to respond and adopt necessary measures. In the absence of a satisfactory response, the Commission may decide to issue reasoned opinions.
Commission calls on Cyprus and Luxembourg to transpose the Directive on adequate minimum wages into national law
The European Commission decided to open infringement procedures by sending letters of formal notice to Cyprus (INFR(2026)2132) and Luxembourg (INFR(2026)2133) for failing to notify measures transposing the Directive on adequate minimum wages (Directive (EU) 2022/2041) into national law. Adequate minimum wages strengthen social fairness and boost productivity and competitiveness. The EU Directive promotes collective bargaining on wage-setting and enhances the effective access of workers to rights to minimum wage protection. Member States had until 15 November 2024 to transpose the Directive into their national law. To date, Cyprus and Luxembourg have not notified any national transposition measures to the Commission. The Commission is therefore sending letters of formal notice to Cyprus and Luxembourg, which now have two months to respond and notify their transposition measures to the Commission. In the absence of a satisfactory response, the Commission may decide to issue reasoned opinions.
Reasoned opinions
Commission calls on Greece and Portugal to align with EU rules on the recognition of professional qualifications of nurses trained in another Member State
Today, the European Commission decided to send a reasoned opinion to Greece (INFR(2025)0184) and Portugal (INFR(2025)0192) for failing to notify measures fully transposing Directive (EU) 2024/505 on the recognition of professional qualifications of nurses responsible for general care trained in Romania into national law. The Member States had until 4 March 2025 to transpose the Directive. The Directive aims to facilitate the recognition of qualifications obtained by Romanian nurses responsible for general care who started their professional training before Romania joined the EU and followed a programme designed to upgrade their qualifications to meet the EU minimum training requirements. Full transposition of the EU rules is key to ensure that graduates of the programme can benefit from a simplified recognition process for access to the profession of nurse responsible for general care in other Member States. Following the letters of formal notice sent to Greece and Portugal on May 2026, the Commission assessed the measures notified by the two Member States. While some progress has been made, the notified measures still do not ensure the full transposition of the Directive. Therefore, the Commission has decided to send a reasoned opinion to Greece and Portugal, which now have two months to respond and take the necessary measures to transpose the Directive. Otherwise, the Commission may decide to refer the cases to the Court of Justice of the European Union with request for financial sanctions.
Commission calls on Italy to align its legislation on working conditions for honorary judges with EU law
Today, the European Commission decided to send a reasoned opinion to Italy (INFR(2025)2159) regarding honorary judges who were already in service on 15 August 2017. Italian law requires these honorary judges to waive rights from their previous honorary service – including rights based on EU law – to obtain permanent employment status. However, the Court of Justice (case C-253/24, Pelavi) ruled that such waivers breach EU law. In addition, the Commission has identified discriminatory treatment of these judges based on part-time or fixed-term work rights. Italy's response to the Commission's formal notice has not resolved these grievances. Following the letter of formal notice sent to Italy on July 2021, the Commission assessed the measures and explanations provided by the Italian authorities and concluded that they do not satisfactorily address the identified breaches of EU law. Therefore, the Commission sent a reasoned opinion to Italian authorities, who have now two months to respond. Otherwise, the Commission may decide to refer the case to the Court.
Commission calls on Greece, Spain, Cyprus, the Netherlands, Poland, Slovakia to fully incorporate EU rules on the protection of workers from asbestos into national law
Today, the European Commission decided to send reasoned opinions to Greece (INFR(2026)055), Spain (INFR(2026)0062), Cyprus (INFR(2026)0026), the Netherlands (INFR(2026)0110), Poland (INFR(2026)0117) and Slovakia (INFR(2026)0148) for failing to notify measures fully transposing into national law new EU rules on protecting workers from the risks related to exposure to asbestos at work. Asbestos is a dangerous cancer-causing substance, with around 75% of workplace cancers in the EU linked to it. Directive (EU) 2023/2668 lays down rules to improve workers' protection against this dangerous substance. Member States were required to transpose most of the provisions of the Directive into national law by 21 December 2025, and the remaining provisions by 21 December 2029. Among the first set of provisions is a reduction in the exposure limit of asbestos at work to a tenth of the previous value (from 0.1 to 0.01 fibres per cubic centimetre), based on the latest scientific and technological developments. On 30 January 2026, the Commission sent letters of formal notice to ten Member States for failing to notify measures incorporating the new EU rules into national law in time. Since then, four Member States have notified such measures. Today, the Commission has decided to send a reasoned opinion to the six remaining Member States, which now have two months to respond and take the necessary measures. Otherwise, the Commission may decide to refer the cases to the Court of Justice of the European Union with requests for financial sanctions.
Referrals to the Court of Justice
Commission decides to refer Greece to the Court of Justice over discriminatory employment conditions for teachers in public schools
Today, the European Commission decided to refer Greece (INFR(2024)4013) to the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) for failing to bring its national legislation fully in line with the Directive on fixed-term work (Council Directive 1999/70/EC), which prohibits discrimination against fixed-term workers. Greek law contains less favourable employment conditions for fixed-term teachers working in public schools compared to permanent teachers, for instance regarding maternity leave and sick leave. The Commission launched this infringement procedure in July 2024 by sending a letter of formal notice to Greek authorities. The explanations provided by Greece in its reply to justify the differences in treatment were unsatisfactory. In May 2025, the Commission sent a reasoned opinion to Greece. The Commission considers that the explanations provided by Greece remain insufficient and is therefore referring Greece to the CJEU. More information is in the press release.
Commission decides to refer Spain to the Court of Justice over recognition of professional qualifications
Today, the European Commission decided to refer Spain (INFR(2018)2306) to the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) for failing to align its rules with the Directive on the recognition of professional qualifications (Directive 2005/36/EC), which ensures that fully qualified professionals can have their qualifications recognised in another EU country, and with Articles 45 and 49 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU). The case concerns sworn translators and interpreters. Spain's national rules do not fully align with the Directive and the TFEU's requirements, particularly on the recognition of sworn translators and interpreters who want to establish themselves permanently in Spain or provide temporary services across borders. Despite previous commitments, Spain has not taken the necessary measures to align its rules with the Directive and the TFEU. Therefore, the Commission is referring Spain to the CJEU. More information is in the press release.
12. Anti-Fraud
(For more information: Balazs Ujvari - Tel.: +32 229-54578; Isabel Otero Banderas – Tel.: +32 229-66925)
Letter of formal notice
Commission calls on Cyprus to respect the OLAF Regulation
The European Commission decided to open an infringement procedure by sending a letter of formal notice to Cyprus (INFR(2026)2054) for failing to comply with its obligation under Union law established by Article 7(3a) of Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 883/2013 (the ‘OLAF Regulation'). This is the second infringement procedure that the Commission has opened against a Member State on this topic, following the one opened with Ireland on 4 June 2026. The OLAF Regulation governs the work of the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) to protect the financial interests of the European Union. In 2020, the OLAF Regulation was amended and introduced specific provisions to clarify the duty of Member States to assist OLAF and provide, upon request, bank account information and records of bank transactions. According to the Cypriot law, OLAF will not be provided with such information in the context of administrative investigations where no reasonable suspicion of a criminal offence exists. Hence, Cyprus law conflicts with Article 7(3a) of the OLAF Regulation, which significantly hampers OLAF investigation results. The Commission is therefore sending a letter of formal notice to Cyprus, which now has two months to submit its observations and address the shortcomings raised by the Commission. In the absence of a satisfactory response, the Commission may decide to issue a reasoned opinion, as provided for in Article 258 TFEU.
