Via Pontica Foundation’s representative on the Economic and Social Council submits a dissenting opinion on a Council resolution
The Via Pontica Foundation’s representative on the Economic and Social Council, Ina Agafonova, submitted a dissenting opinion on a resolution of the Council on “For a balanced approach to the implementation of the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) and the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)”, adopted at the plenary session of the Council on 27 April 2026
In her dissenting opinion Ina Agafonova disagrees with the adopted text, arguing that the resolution fails to strike the necessary balance between short-term economic considerations and the long-term climate, health and sustainable development goals of the European Union and the Republic of Bulgaria.
The position argues that the document dwells predominantly on the negative effects of applying the ETS and CBAM, without sufficiently acknowledging their role as key instruments for cutting emissions, stimulating investment and providing predictability during the economic transition.
The dissenting opinion further stresses that the ETS is a central instrument for implementing the European Climate Law, the target of cutting net emissions by at least 55% by 2030 and reaching climate neutrality by 2050, as well as Bulgaria’s commitments under the Paris Agreement, the Integrated National Energy and Climate Plan and the National Recovery and Resilience Plan.
Ina Agafonova also draws attention to the need for positions on matters of public interest to rest on verifiable sources, thorough analysis and a clear distinction between temporary anti-crisis measures and long-term strategic decisions.
The Via Pontica Foundation continues to support consistent policies for sustainable development, climate and nature protection, and a just transition that takes into account the interests of society, vulnerable groups, the economy and future generations.
The text of the resolution, with the dissenting opinion annexed, is available here
