The revolution in Libya, the ousting of the regimes in Tunisia and Egypt, and the revolts in Algeria, Morocco and Jordan brought new elements in the discussion of the future of EU's neighbourhood policy.

Mário David, Chairman of Delegation for relations with the Mashreq countries and Member of the Delegation to the Parliamentary Assembly of the Union for the Mediterranean therefore considers that "the Union has to learn from the changes taking place in the area and therefore should take much more into account the role of civil society."

Developed in 2004, with the aim of avoiding differing lines between the enlarged EU and our neighbours, and, on the other hand, consolidating security, democratic stability and prosperity of all, the ENP and its Action Plans need now to be reviewed.

MEP's have shown with their votes that they are strongly committed to the abolition of the death penalty, respecting human rights, democracy and the rule of law. Insisting on the importance of bringing investment, training, research and innovation to the Southern neighbouring countries, MEP's highlighted the need to increase the funds allocated.

The EP will continue calling on the EEAS and the EU Commission to involve it in the advanced status of the decision processes, including its proposals in the Commission's final text.

"We hope that this is only an interim stage and a contribution to the position that the European Commission will adopt on the 20th April and after that Parliament shall be called to contribute again" concluded Rapporteur Mário David.