Euro: protection by penal sanctions against counterfeiting and falsification. Framework Decision

PURPOSE: to increase protection by penal sanctions against counterfeiting in connection with the introduction of the euro.

COMMUNITY MEASURE: Council Framework Decision 2000/383/JHA on increasing protection by criminal penalties and other sanctions against counterfeiting in connection with the introduction of the euro.

CONTENT: on the initiative of the Federal Republic of Germany, the Council has approved this framework decision that seeks to combat the counterfeiting and falsification of euro banknotes and coins before they are put into circulation on 01.01.2002. To this end, the Member States are invited to accede to the International Convention of 1929 on the Suppression of Counterfeiting Currency and its Protocol so as to ensure that the conduct referred to in the Convention is punishable by effective, proportionate and dissuasive criminal penalties from the moment at which they apply to the single currency.

The transport, export, transfer and purchase of false euros by a third party will also be liable to penal sanctions.

Likewise, all operations leading to the falsification of the single currency, in particular, the consitution of holograms and other components of currency which serve to protect against counterfeiting, as well as computer programmes and other means specially adapted for the counterfeiting or altering of the euro.

Provision is also made for the introduction of the appropriate measures to ensure that the prosecution of counterfeiting, at least in respect of the euro, is possible, independently of the nationality of the offender and the place where the offence has been committed.

Member States shall take the necessary measures to comply with this framework Decision by 31.12.2000.

ENTRY INTO FORCE: 14.06.2000.