Link: https://curia.europa.eu/site/upload/docs/application/pdf/2026-03/cp260030en.pdf

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Judgment of the Court in Case C-613/24 | Commission v Portugal (Special areas of conservation – Failure to comply with a judgment of the Court of Justice)

Twofold failure to fulfil obligations: Portugal is ordered to pay €10 million for failing to comply with a judgment of the Court of Justice finding an infringement of the Habitats Directive

The Court also imposes on Portugal a penalty payment of €41 250 per day until that judgment is fully complied with, which will be reduced as that Member State makes progress

The preservation and restoration of biodiversity in Europe is one of the European Union’s main priorities. The Habitats Directive 1 contributes to this through the conservation of natural habitats as well as of wild fauna and flora present on the European territory of the Member States. To that end, it has set up the ‘Natura 2000’ network, the largest ecological network in the world. Natura 2000 aims to ensure, in a coherent and transnational manner, the long-term survival of the most valuable and threatened species and habitats in Europe. The network includes special areas of conservation (SACs) designated by Member States under the Habitats Directive and special protection areas classified under the Birds Directive.

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