European Commission - Press release Commission proposes to modernise and strengthen controls on exports of dual-use items

Commission proposal for improved export controls would modernise and simplify system to respond to new risks.

Today, the European Commission proposes to strengthen controls on exports of certain goods and technologies that – in addition to legitimate civilian applications – may also be misused for severe human rights violations, terrorist acts or the development of weapons of mass destruction. A main element of today's proposal is a new "human security" dimension in export controls, to prevent human rights violations associated with certain cyber-surveillance technologies. Furthermore, the proposal simplifies and harmonises the existing export control rules, in order to save time and money for EU exporters and national authorities. These export controls reflect the EU's commitment to international peace and security. (...)