EP Civil Liberties Chairman Aguilar demands proportionality and solidarity within the EU

Juan Fernando Lopez Aguilar, a member of the Socialists and Democrats group in the European Parliament and Chairman of the Committee on Civil Liberties, has urged the 27-member bloc to respect the principles of solidarity and proportionality when taking measures restricting social interaction to combat spread of COVID-19.
“I urge member states to take their measures in full respect of the principles of proportionality and, above all, solidarity among EU Member States, non-discrimination and the applicable Schengen rules, Aguilar said on Monday.
He also added that “it is key that when taking measures no discrimination is made between EU citizens and called for a “coordinated approach” instead of unilateral actions by member states.
Following Aguilar’s statement, the European Commission proposed later on Monday a 30-day non-essential travel ban from third countries to the EU, a far-reaching measure to respond to COVID-19 emergency, as several states have already shut their borders or restricted entrance/exit.