1. Basel Protocol on Liability Ratification József Kelemen Ministry of Environment and Water

2. AGENDA Addressing Aspects and Obstacles to the Process of Ratification on the basis of the Questionnaire No. 2 2

3. 1. To ratify the Protocol on Liability and Compensation Hungary singed the Protocol on Liability and Compensation on 05.12.2000. We have done no further steps for ratification, acceptance, formal confirmation, approval or accession. 3

4. 2. Ratification process of international agreements In Hungary the Ministry of Environment and Water can initiate the ratification process. The final decision will be taken by our Government. 4

5. 3. Other requirements for entering into force After ratification we have to publish the Protocol in form of Governmental decree. 5

6. 4. Difficulties, concerns and obstacles to ratification There are no legal difficulties. Practical concerns: Financial limits (amounts) for the liability defined in the Annex B to the Protocol might too high, it might result in unacceptable financial burden for our undertakings. We are waiting for the EU recommendation. 6

7. 5. Removing the obstacles. We think the obstacles could be removed by amendment of Annex B (?). 7

8. 6.What actions could be undertaken See the previous slides. 8

9. Thank you for your attention!