### circular production and consumption systems will provide benefits to the european economy by reducing resource dependency and increasing the competitiveness of enterprises , and to european citizens by creating new job opportunities and reducing pressures on the environment and climate . beyond industrial transformation , the transition to a low - emission , resource efficient and circular economy will also need a broader system shift that requires systemic eco - innovative solutions , new business models , markets and investments , enabling infrastructure , social innovation changes in consumer behaviour , and governance models stimulating multi - stakeholder collaboration to ensure that the intended system change achieves better economic , environmental and social outcomes22 . opening for international cooperation will be important for comparability , generating and sharing knowledge and avoiding duplication of efforts , e . g . through international initiatives such as the international resource panel . __________________ 22 the activities in circular systems area of intervention are complementary to those of low - carbon and clean industry in the digital and industry cluster . ### circular production and consumption systems will provide benefits to the european economy by reducing resource dependency and increasing the competitiveness of enterprises , and to european citizens by creating new job opportunities and reducing pressures on the environment and climate . beyond industrial transformation , the transition to a low - emission , resource efficient and circular economy will also need a broader system shift that requires systemic eco - innovative solutions , eco - design , new business models , markets and investments , enabling infrastructure , social innovation changes in consumer behaviour , and governance models stimulating multi - stakeholder collaboration to ensure that the intended system change achieves better economic , environmental and social outcomes22 . opening for international cooperation will be important for comparability , generating and sharing knowledge and avoiding duplication of efforts , e . g . through international initiatives such as the international resource panel . __________________ 22 the activities in circular systems area of intervention are complementary to those of low - carbon and clean industry in the digital and industry cluster .


### circular production and consumption systems will provide benefits to the european economy by reducing resource dependency and increasing the competitiveness of enterprises , and to european citizens by creating new job opportunities and reducing pressures on the environment and climate . beyond industrial transformation , the transition to a low - emission , resource efficient and circular economy will also need a broader system shift that requires systemic eco - innovative solutions , new business models , markets and investments , enabling infrastructure , social innovation changes in consumer behaviour , and governance models stimulating multi - stakeholder collaboration to ensure that the intended system change achieves better economic , environmental and social outcomes22 . opening for international cooperation will be important for comparability , generating and sharing knowledge and avoiding duplication of efforts , e . g . through international initiatives such as the international resource panel . _________________ 22 the activities in circular systems area of intervention are complementary to those of low - carbon and clean industry in the digital and industry cluster . ### circular production and consumption systems will provide benefits to the european economy by reducing resource dependency and increasing the competitiveness of enterprises , and to european citizens by creating new job opportunities and reducing pressures on the environment and climate . beyond industrial transformation , the transition to a low - emission , resource efficient and circular economy will also need a broader system shift that requires systemic eco - innovative solutions , new business models , markets and investments , enabling infrastructure , social innovation changes in consumer behaviour , and governance models stimulating multi - stakeholder collaboration to ensure that the intended system change achieves better economic , environmental and social outcomes22 , e . g . related sustainable and nutritious food systems , sustainable and healthy living and housing , and energy solutions , and new sustainable materials and products . opening for international cooperation will be important for comparability , generating and sharing knowledge and avoiding duplication of efforts , e . g . through international initiatives such as the international resource panel . _________________ 22 the activities in circular systems area of intervention are complementary to those of low - carbon and clean industry in the digital and industry cluster .


### –metrics and indicators for measuring the circular economy and life cycle performance ; governance systems which accelerate expansion of the circular economy and resource efficiency while creating markets for secondary materials ; multi - stakeholder and cross - value chain collaboration ; instruments for investment in the circular economy ; ### –metrics and indicators for measuring the circular economy , its impact on sdg ' s , and life cycle performance ; governance systems which accelerate expansion of the circular economy and resource efficiency while creating markets for secondary materials ; multi - stakeholder and cross - value chain collaboration ; instruments for investment in the circular economy ;


### –circular use of water resources , including reduction of water demand , prevention of losses , water reuse , recycling and valorisation of wastewater and governance models for smart water allocation , addressing sources of pollution and tackling other pressures on water resources . ### –circular use of water resources , including reduction of water demand especially in the areas suffering from water shortage , prevention of losses , water reuse , recycling and valorisation of wastewater , smart circulation of nutrients and governance models for smart water allocation , addressing sources of pollution and tackling other pressures on water resources .


### the cross - border cooperation component should also involve cooperation between one or more member states and one or more countries or other territories outside the union . covering internal and external cross - border cooperation under this regulation should result in a major simplification and streamlining of applicable provisions for the programme authorities in the member states and for the partner authorities and beneficiaries outside the union compared to the programming period 2014 - 2020 . ### the cross - border cooperation component should also involve cooperation between one or more member states or their regions , and one or more countries or regions , or other territories outside the union . covering internal and external cross - border cooperation under this regulation should result in a major simplification and streamlining of applicable provisions for the programme authorities in the member states and for the partner authorities and beneficiaries outside the union compared to the programming period 2014 - 2020 .


### the transnational cooperation and maritime cooperation component should aim to strengthen cooperation by means of actions conducive to integrated territorial development linked to the union ' s cohesion policy priorities , and should also include maritime cross - border cooperation . transnational cooperation should cover larger territories on the mainland of the union , whereas maritime cooperation should cover territories around sea - basins and integrate cross - border cooperation on maritime borders during the programming period 2014 - 2020 . maximum flexibility should be given to continue implementing previous maritime cross - border cooperation within a larger maritime cooperation framework , in particular by defining the territory covered , the specific objectives for such cooperation , the requirements for a project partnership and the setting - up of sub - programmes and specific steering committees . ### the transnational cooperation and maritime cooperation component should aim to strengthen cooperation by means of actions conducive to integrated and uniformed territorial development linked to the union ' s cohesion policy priorities , and should also include maritime cross - border cooperation . transnational cooperation should cover larger territories on the mainland of the union , whereas maritime cooperation should cover territories around sea - basins and integrate cross - border cooperation on maritime borders during the programming period 2014 - 2020 . maximum flexibility should be given to continue implementing previous maritime cross - border cooperation within a larger maritime cooperation framework , in particular by defining the territory covered , the specific objectives for such cooperation , the requirements for a project partnership and the setting - up of sub - programmes and specific steering committees . when defining the scope of transnational and maritime cooperation , it is necessary to consider the areas of the existing eu macro - regional strategies .


### it is necessary to continue supporting or , as appropriate , to establish cooperation in all its dimensions with the union ' s neighbouring third countries , as such cooperation is an important regional development policy tool and should benefit the regions of the member states which border third countries . to that effect , the erdf and the external financing instruments of the union , ipa27 , ndici28 and octp29 , should support programmes under cross - border cooperation , transnational cooperation and maritime cooperation , outermost regions’ cooperation and interregional cooperation . the support from the erdf and from the external financing instruments of the union should be based on reciprocity and proportionality . however , for ipa iii cbc and ndici cbc , the erdf support should be complemented by at least equivalent amounts under ipa iii cbc and ndici cbc , subject to a maximum amount set out in the respective legal act , that is to say , up to 3 % of the financial envelope under ipa iii and up to 4 % of the financial envelope of the neighbourhood geographic programme under article 4 of the ndici . _________________ 27 regulation xxx establishing the instrument for pre - accession assistance . 28 regulation xxx establishing the neighbourhood , development and international cooperation instrument . 29 council decision xxx on the association of the overseas countries and territories with the european inion including relations between the european union on the one hand and greenland and the kingdom of denmark on the other . ### it is necessary to continue supporting or , as appropriate , to establish cooperation in all its dimensions with the union ' s neighbouring third countries , as such cooperation is an important regional development and enlargement policy tool and should benefit the regions of the member states which border third countries . to that effect , the erdf and the external financing instruments of the union , ipa27 , ndici28 and octp29 , should support programmes under cross - border cooperation , transnational cooperation and maritime cooperation , outermost regions’ cooperation and interregional cooperation . the support from the erdf and from the external financing instruments of the union should be based on reciprocity and proportionality . however , for ipa iii cbc and ndici cbc , the erdf support should be complemented by at least equivalent amounts under ipa iii cbc and ndici cbc , subject to a maximum amount set out in the respective legal act , that is to say , up to 3 % of the financial envelope under ipa iii and up to 4 % of the financial envelope of the neighbourhood geographic programme under article 4 of the ndici . _________________ 27 regulation xxx establishing the instrument for pre - accession assistance . 28 regulation xxx establishing the neighbourhood , development and international cooperation instrument . 29 council decision xxx on the association of the overseas countries and territories with the european inion including relations between the european union on the one hand and greenland and the kingdom of denmark on the other .


### in view of the specific situation of outmost regions of the union , it is necessary to adopt measures concerning the conditions under which those regions may have access to structural funds . consequently , certain provisions of this regulation should be adapted to the specificities of the outermost regions in order to simplify and foster cooperation with their neighbors , while taking into account the communication from the commission ' a stronger and renewed strategic partnership with the eu ' s outermost regions ' 31 . _________________ 31 communication from the commission to the european parliament , the council , the european economic and social committee , the committee of the regions and the european investment bank ' a stronger and renewed strategic partnership with the eu ' s outermost regions ' , - com 623 final , 24 . 10 . 2017 . ### in view of the specific situation of outmost regions of the union , it is necessary to adopt measures concerning the improvement of conditions under which those regions may have access to structural funds . consequently , certain provisions of this regulation should be adapted to the specificities of the outermost regions in order to simplify and foster cooperation with their neighbors , while taking into account the communication from the commission ' a stronger and renewed strategic partnership with the eu ' s outermost regions ' 31 . _________________ 31 communication from the commission to the european parliament , the council , the european economic and social committee , the committee of the regions and the european investment bank ' a stronger and renewed strategic partnership with the eu ' s outermost regions ' , - com 623 final , 24 . 10 . 2017 .


### within the context of the unique and specific circumstances on the island of ireland , and with a view to supporting north - south cooperation under the good friday agreement , a new ' peace plus ' cross - border programme should continue and build on the work of previous programmes between the border counties of ireland and northern ireland . taking into account its practical importance , it is necessary to ensure that , where the programme is acting in support of peace and reconciliation , the erdf should also contribute to promoting social , economic and regional stability in the regions concerned , in particular through actions to promote cohesion between communities . given the specificities of the programme it should be managed in an integrated manner with the united kingdom contribution being integrated into the programme as external assigned revenue . furthermore , certain rules on the selection of operations in this regulation should not apply to that programme in relation to operations in support of peace and reconciliation . ### within the context of the unique and specific circumstances on the island of ireland , and with a view to supporting north - south cooperation under the good friday agreement , a new ' peace plus ' cross - border programme shall be continued and build on the work of previous programmes between the border counties of ireland and northern ireland . taking into account its practical importance , it is necessary to ensure that , where the programme is acting in support of peace and reconciliation , the erdf should also contribute to promoting social , economic and regional stability and cooperation in the regions concerned , in particular through actions to promote cohesion between communities . given the specificities of the programme it should be managed in an integrated manner with the united kingdom contribution being integrated into the programme as external assigned revenue . furthermore , certain rules on the selection of operations in this regulation should not apply to that programme in relation to operations in support of peace and reconciliation .


### the major part of the union support should be concentrated on a limited number of policy objectives in order to maximise the impact of interreg . ### the major part of the union support should be concentrated on a limited number of policy objectives in order to maximise the impact of interreg . synergies and complementarities between the components of interreg should be strengthened .


### the provisions on the criteria for operations to be considered as genuinely joint and cooperative , on the partnership within an interreg operation and on the obligations of the lead partner as set out during the programme period 2014 - 2020 should on be continued . however , interreg partners should cooperate in all four dimensions and , under outermost regions’ cooperation , in three out of four , as it should be simpler to combine support from the erdf and external financing instruments from the union both on the level of programmes and operations . ### the provisions on the criteria for operations to be considered as genuinely joint and cooperative , on the partnership within an interreg operation and on the obligations of the lead partner as set out during the programme period 2014 - 2020 should on be continued . however , interreg partners , with the exception of external cross - border cooperation , should cooperate in all four dimensions and , under outermost regions’ cooperation , in three out of four , as it should be simpler to combine support from the erdf and external financing instruments from the union both on the level of programmes and operations .


### this regulation lays down rules for the european territorial cooperation goal with a view to fostering cooperation between member states inside the union and between member states and adjacent third countries , partner countries , other territories or overseas countries and territories respectively . ### this regulation lays down rules for the european territorial cooperation goal with a view to fostering cooperation between member states and their regions inside the union and between member states , their regions and adjacent third countries , partner countries , other territories or overseas countries and territories respectively .


### cross - border cooperation between adjacent regions to promote integrated regional development : ### cross - border cooperation between adjacent regions to promote integrated and uniform regional development :


### transnational cooperation and maritime cooperation over larger transnational territories or around sea - basins , involving national , regional and local programme partners in member states , third countries and partner countries and in greenland , with a view to achieving a higher degree of territorial integration ; ### transnational cooperation over larger transnational territories or around sea - basins , involving national , regional and local programme partners in member states , third countries and partner countries and in greenland , with a view to achieving a higher degree of territorial integration .


### for transnational cooperation and maritime cooperation , the regions to be supported by the erdf shall be the nuts level 2 regions of the union covering contiguous functional areas , taking into account , where applicable , macro - regional strategies or sea basin strategies . ### for transnational cooperation and maritime cooperation , the regions to be supported by the erdf shall be the nuts level 2 regions of the union covering contiguous functional areas , taking into account the existing eu macro - regional strategies or sea basin strategies .


### support from the erdf shall be granted to individual external cross - border interreg programmes provided that equivalent amounts are provided by ipa iii cbc and ndici cbc under the relevant strategic programming document . that equivalence shall be subject to a maximum amount set out in the ipa iii or ndici legislative act . ### support from the erdf shall be granted to individual external cross - border interreg programmes . the amount of erdf allocation can be equal amount provided by ipa iii cbc and ndici cbc under the relevant programming document . if the amount is not equal , it shall be negotiated between the european commission and the member states participating to the programme .


### the interreg programme cannot be implemented as planned due to problems in relations between the participating countries . ### in justified cases , where the interreg programme cannot be implemented as planned due to serious problems in relations between the participating countries .


### an additional 15% of the erdf and , where applicable , of the external financing instruments of the union allocations under priorities other than for technical assistance to each interreg programme under components 1 , 2 and 3 , shall be allocated on the interreg - specific objective of ' a better interreg governance ' or on the external interreg - specific objective of ' a safer and more secure europe ' . ### up to 15 % of the erdf and , where applicable , of the external financing instruments of the union allocations under priorities other than for technical assistance to each interreg programme under components 1 , 2 and 3 , may be allocated on the interreg - specific objective of ' a better interreg governance ' or , where applicable , on the external interreg - specific objective of ' a safer and more secure europe ' .


### joint investment needs and complementarity with other forms of support ; ### joint investment needs , economic growth and investment potential and complementarity with other forms of support ;


### the member state hosting the managing authority may submit a motivated request for an amendment of an interreg programme together with the amended programme , setting out the expected impact of that amendment on the achievement of the objectives . ### on the basis of the monitoring committee decision the managing authority shall submit a motivated request for an amendment of an interreg programme together with the amended programme , setting out the expected impact of that amendment on the achievement of the objectives .


### the composition of the monitoring committee of each interreg programme shall be agreed by the member states and , where applicable , by the third countries , partner countries and octs participating in that programme and shall ensure a balanced representation of the relevant authorities , intermediate bodies and representatives of the programme partners referred to in article [ 6 ] of regulation [ new cpr ] from member states , third countries , partner countries and octs . ### the composition of the monitoring committee of each interreg programme shall be agreed by the member states and , where applicable , by the third countries , partner countries and octs participating in that programme and shall aim for a balanced representation of the relevant authorities , intermediate bodies and representatives of the programme partners referred to in article [ 6 ] of regulation [ new cpr ] from member states , third countries , partner countries and octs .


### the composition of the monitoring committee of each interreg programme shall be agreed by the member states and , where applicable , by the third countries , partner countries and octs participating in that programme and shall ensure a balanced representation of the relevant authorities , intermediate bodies and representatives of the programme partners referred to in article [ 6 ] of regulation [ new cpr ] from member states , third countries , partner countries and octs . ### the composition of the monitoring committee of each interreg programme shall be agreed by the member states and , where applicable , by the third countries , partner countries and octs participating in that programme and shall ensure a balanced representation of the relevant authorities and representatives of the programme partners referred to in article [ 6 ] of regulation [ new cpr ] from member states , third countries , partner countries and octs .


### the monitoring committee shall also include representatives of bodies jointly set up in the whole programme area or covering a part thereof , including egtcs . ### the monitoring committee shall also include representatives of regions and local governments as well as other bodies jointly set up in the whole programme area or covering a part thereof , including egtcs .


### where the beneficiary does not comply with its obligations under article [ 42 ] of regulation [ new cpr ] or paragraphs 1 and 2 of this article , the member state shall apply a financial correction by cancelling up to 5% of the support from the funds to the operation concerned . ### where the beneficiary does not comply with its obligations under article [ 42 ] of regulation [ new cpr ] or paragraphs 1 and 2 of this article , the managing authority shall apply a financial correction by cancelling up to 5% of the support from the funds to the concerned activity of operation .


### as a flat rate in accordance with article [ 50 ] of regulation [ new cpr ] . ### direct staff costs of an operation may be calculated at a flat rate of up to 20 % of the direct costs other than the direct staff costs of that operation , without there being a requirement for the member state to perform a calculation to determine the applicable rate .


### office and administrative costs shall be limited to the following elements : ### office and administrative costs shall be limited to the following elements and will be reimbursed as a flat rate in accordance with article 49 of regulation ) [ new cpr ] ;


### the national authority or a body equivalent to the interreg programme communication officer as provided for in article 35 , shall support the managing authority and partners in the respective third country , partner country or oct with regard to the tasks provided for in article 35 to . ### the national authority or a body equivalent to the interreg programme communication officer as provided for in article 35 , may support the managing authority and partners in the respective third country , partner country or oct with regard to the tasks provided for in article 35 to .


### the delegated acts referred to in points and of the first subparagraph shall be limited to meeting demonstrated needs resulting from evolving consumer demands , technological progress , developments in relevant international standards or needs for product innovation . ### the delegated acts referred to in points and of the first subparagraph shall be limited to meeting demonstrated needs resulting from evolving consumer demands , technological progress , developments in relevant international standards or needs for product innovation , whilst taking into account the importance of traditional practices .


### any other false or misleading indication as to the provenance , origin , nature or essential qualities of the product , on the inner or outer packaging , advertising material or documents relating to the product concerned , and the packing of the product in a container liable to convey a false impression as to its origin ; ### any other false or misleading indication as to the provenance , origin , nature or essential qualities of the product , on the presentation or labelling of the product , liable to convey a false impression as to its origin ;


### if the commission receives no notice of opposition or no admissible reasoned statement of opposition under article 24 , it shall adopt implementing acts , without applying the procedure referred to in article 44 , registering the name . ### if the commission receives no notice of opposition or no admissible reasoned statement of opposition under article 24 , it shall adopt delegated acts , in accordance with article 43 , supplementing this regulation , in order to register the name .


### if an agreement has been reached , register the name by means of implementing acts adopted without applying the procedure referred to in article 44 , and , if necessary , amend the information published pursuant to article 23 provided such amendments are not substantial ; or ### if an agreement has been reached , adopt delegated acts , in accordance with article 43 , supplementing this regulation in order to register the name and , if necessary , amend the information published pursuant to article 23 provided such amendments are not substantial ; or


### if an agreement has not been reached , adopt implementing acts deciding on the registration . those implementing acts shall be adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 44 . ### if an agreement has not been reached , adopt delegated acts , in accordance with article 43 , supplementing this regulation , in order to decide on the registration .


### the commission may , on its own initiative or at the request of any natural or legal person having a legitimate interest , adopt implementing acts to cancel the registration of a geographical indication in the following cases : ### the commission is empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 43 , and supplementing this regulation , on its own initiative or at the request of any natural or legal person having a legitimate interest , in order to cancel the registration of a geographical indication in the following cases :


### the commission shall adopt implementing acts , without applying the procedure referred to in article 44 , establishing and maintaining a publicly accessible updated electronic register of geographical indications of spirit drinks recognised under this scheme . ### the commission shall adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 43 , supplementing this regulation by establishing and maintaining a publicly accessible updated electronic register of geographical indications of spirit drinks recognised under this scheme .


### implementing powers with respect to existing protected geographical indications ### powers with respect to existing registered geographical indications


### without prejudice to paragraph 2 , geographical indications of spirit drinks protected under regulation no 110 / 2008 , shall automatically be protected as geographical indications under this regulation . the commission shall list them in the register . ### geographical indications of spirit drinks protected under regulation no 110 / 2008 , shall automatically be protected as geographical indications under this regulation . the commission shall list them in the register .


### when placing ppe on the market , importers should indicate on the product their name and the address at which they can be contacted . exceptions should be provided for in cases where the size or nature of the ppe does not allow for such an indication . this includes cases where the importer would have to open the packaging to put his name and address on the product . ### when placing ppe on the market , importers should indicate on the product their name and the address at which they can be contacted as well as indications of webpages on which the end - user of the ppe can access additional information on how to correctly use the ppe . exceptions should be provided for in cases where the size or nature of the ppe does not allow for such an indication . this includes cases where the importer would have to open the packaging to put his name and address on the product .


### connexion systems for equipment referred to in point that are not held or worn by a person , that are intended to connect that equipment to an external device or structure , that are removable and not intended to be permanently fixed to a structure ; ### connexion systems for equipment referred to in point that are not held or worn by a person , that are designed to connect that equipment to an external device or to a reliable anchorage point , that are not designed to be permanently fixed and that do not require fastening works before use ;


### the application for notification shall be accompanied by a description of the conformity assessment activities , the conformity assessment procedure and the kinds of ppe for which that body claims to be competent , as well as by an accreditation certificate , where one exists , issued by a national accreditation body attesting that the conformity assessment body fulfils the requirements laid down in article 23 . ### the application for notification shall be accompanied by a description of the conformity assessment activities , the conformity assessment procedure and the kinds of ppe for which that body claims to be competent , as well as by an accreditation certificate issued by a national accreditation body attesting that the conformity assessment body fulfils the requirements laid down in article 23 .


### member states shall ensure that the bodies notified by them participate in the work of that group , directly or by means of designated representatives . ### notified bodies shall participate in the work of that group , directly or by means of designated representatives . in the event that a notified body does not comply with this requirement , the notification shall be suspended or withdrawn .


### as far as possible , ppe enclosing the parts of the body to be protected must be sufficiently ventilated to limit perspiration resulting from use ; otherwise , it must be equipped with means of absorbing perspiration . ### as far as possible , ppe enclosing the parts of the body to be protected must be designed to limit perspiration resulting from use ; otherwise , means of absorbing perspiration must be incorporated .


### in the digital environment in particular , the competent authorities should be able to stop infringements quickly and effectively , notably where the trader selling goods or services conceals its identity or relocates within the union or to a third country to avoid enforcement . in cases where there is a risk of serious and irreparable harm to consumers , the competent authorities should to be able to adopt interim measures to prevent such harm or reduce it , including , where necessary , the suspension of a website , domain or a similar digital site , service or account . furthermore , the competent authorities should have the power to take down or have a third party service provider take down a website , domain or a similar digital site , service or account , ### in the digital environment in particular , the competent authorities should be able to stop infringements quickly and effectively , notably where the trader selling goods or services conceals its identity or relocates within the union or to a third country to avoid enforcement . in cases where there is a risk of serious and irreparable harm to consumers , the competent authorities should to be able to adopt interim measures to prevent such harm or reduce it , including , where necessary , requiring hosting service providers to remove content or to suspend a website , service or account , or requiring a domain registry or registrar to put a fully qualified domain name on hold for a specific period of time . furthermore , the competent authorities should have the power to order a hosting service provider to remove content or to close down a website , service or account or a part of it , or to order a registry or registrar to delete a fully qualified domain name . however , measures to remove content may not only be harmful to freedom of speech and information , but may also ineffective , as in the fast - moving digital environment content reappears as quickly as it is removed . therefore measures taken to restrict the online distribution , or otherwise making available , of content to the public should always be in line with the charter of fundamental rights , should be limited to what is necessary and proportionate and should be executed on the basis of a prior judicial authorisation ,


### in the digital environment in particular , the competent authorities should be able to stop infringements quickly and effectively , notably where the trader selling goods or services conceals its identity or relocates within the union or to a third country to avoid enforcement . in cases where there is a risk of serious and irreparable harm to consumers , the competent authorities should to be able to adopt interim measures to prevent such harm or reduce it , including , where necessary , the suspension of a website , domain or a similar digital site , service or account . furthermore , the competent authorities should have the power to take down or have a third party service provider take down a website , domain or a similar digital site , service or account , ### in the digital environment in particular , the competent authorities should be able to stop infringements quickly and effectively , notably where the trader selling goods or services conceals its identity or relocates within the union or to a third country to avoid enforcement . in cases where there is a risk of serious and irreparable harm to consumers , the competent authorities should be able to adopt interim measures , where there are no other means available to prevent or mitigate such harm or reduce it , including , where necessary , requiring hosting service providers to remove content or to suspend a website , service or account , or requiring a domain registry or registrar to put a fully qualified domain name on hold for a specific period of time . furthermore , the competent authorities should have the power to order a hosting service provider to remove content or to close down a website , service or account or a part of it , or to order a registry or registrar to delete a fully qualified domain name and allow the competent authority concerned to register it ,


### in the digital environment in particular , the competent authorities should be able to stop infringements quickly and effectively , notably where the trader selling goods or services conceals its identity or relocates within the union or to a third country to avoid enforcement . in cases where there is a risk of serious and irreparable harm to consumers , the competent authorities should to be able to adopt interim measures to prevent such harm or reduce it , including , where necessary , the suspension of a website , domain or a similar digital site , service or account . furthermore , the competent authorities should have the power to take down or have a third party service provider take down a website , domain or a similar digital site , service or account , ### in the digital environment in particular , the competent authorities should be able to take effective and transparent measures to stop infringements quickly and effectively , notably where the trader selling goods or services conceals its identity or relocates within the union or to a third country to avoid enforcement . in cases where there is a risk of serious and irreparable harm to consumers , the competent authorities should to be able to adopt interim measures to prevent such harm or reduce it , including , where necessary , requesting hosting service providers to remove content , suspend a website , service or account , or requesting a domain registry or registrar to put a fully qualified domain name on hold for a specific period of time . furthermore , the competent authorities should have the power to request a hosting service provider to remove content , close down a website , service or account or a part of it , or request a registry or registrar to delete a fully qualified domain name . however , measures to remove content can be harmful to freedom of speech and information , as well as ineffective since , in a fast - moving digital environment , content reappears as quickly as it was removed . therefore , measures taken to restrict the online distribution , or otherwise making available , of content to the public should always comply with the charter of fundamental rights of the european union , be limited to what is necessary and proportionate and be executed on the basis of a prior judicial authorisation ,


### require the supply by any natural or legal person , including banks , internet service providers , domain registries and registrars and hosting service providers of any relevant information , data or document in any format or form and irrespective of the medium on which or the place where they are stored , for the purpose of among others identifying and following financial and data flows , or of ascertaining the identity of persons involved in financial and data flows , bank account information and ownership of websites ; ### require the supply by any natural or legal person , including banks , internet service providers , domain registries and registrars and hosting service providers of any relevant information , data or document in the format or form in which it is stored , irrespective of the medium or the place of storage , for the purpose of among others identifying and following financial and data flows , or of ascertaining the identity of persons involved in financial and data flows , bank account information and ownership of websites ;


### carry out the necessary on - site inspections , including in particular the power to enter any premises , land or means of transport or to request other authorities to do so in order to examine , seize , take or obtain copies of information , data or documents , irrespective of the medium on which they are stored ; to seal any premises or information , data or documents for a necessary period and to the extent necessary for the inspection ; to request any representative or member of the staff of the trader concerned to give explanations on facts , information or documents relating to the subject matter of the inspection and to record the answers ; ### carry out , on the basis of a prior judicial authorisation , the necessary on - site inspections , including in particular the power to enter any premises , land or means of transport or to request other authorities to do so in order to examine , seize , take or obtain copies of information , data or documents , irrespective of the medium on which they are stored ; to seal any premises or information , data or documents for a necessary period and to the extent necessary for the inspection ; to request any representative or member of the staff of the trader concerned to give explanations on facts , information or documents relating to the subject matter of the inspection and to record the answers ;


### synergies between the eafrd and horizon europe should encourage that the eafrd makes the best use of research and innovation results , in particular those stemming from projects funded by horizon europe and the european innovation partnership for ‘ agricultural productivity and sustainability’ , leading to innovations in the farming sector and rural areas . ### synergies between the eafrd and horizon europe , other union policies and international commitments should encourage that the eafrd makes the best use of research and innovation results , in particular those stemming from projects funded by horizon europe and the european innovation partnership for ‘ agricultural productivity and sustainability’ , leading to innovations in the farming sector and rural areas .


### reflecting the importance of tackling climate change in line with the union ' s commitments to implement the paris agreement and the united nations sustainable development goals , this program will contribute to mainstream climate action in the union ' s policies and to the achievement of an overall target of 25% of the eu budget expenditures supporting climate objectives . actions under the cap are expected to contribute 40 % of the overall financial envelope of the cap to climate objectives . relevant actions will be identified during the program ' s preparation and implementation , and reassessed in the context of the relevant evaluations and review processes . ### reflecting the importance of tackling climate change in line with the union ' s commitments to implement the paris agreement and the united nations sustainable development goals , this program will contribute to mainstream climate action in the union ' s policies and to the achievement of an overall target of 30% of the eu budget expenditures supporting climate objectives at the latest by 2027 . actions under the cap are expected to contribute 40 % of the overall financial envelope of the cap to climate objectives . relevant actions will be identified during the program ' s preparation and implementation , and reassessed in the context of the relevant evaluations and review processes .


### support from the eagf and eafrd shall aim to further improve the sustainable development of farming , food and rural areas and shall contribute to achieving the following general objectives : ### cap shall remain a common union policy and shall be adequately funded in order to deliver its objectives and achieve the ambitions of a revised and efficient cap . support from the eagf and eafrd shall aim to further improve the sustainable development of farming , food and rural areas and shall contribute to achieving the following general objectives :


### attract young farmers and facilitate business development in rural areas ; ### increased support for family farms , attraction of young farmers and facilitating business development in rural areas ;


### when pursuing the specific objectives member states shall ensure simplification and performance of the cap support . ### when pursuing the specific objectives member states shall ensure simplification and performance of the cap support . commission shall ensure that financial and performance control and audit functions are performed to the same high - level standards of continuous improvement across all member states while fully respecting the principles of subsidiarity and flexibility .


### achievement of the objectives referred to in articles 5 and 6 shall be assessed on the basis of common indicators related to output , result and impact . the set of common indicators shall include : ### achievement of the objectives referred to in articles 5 and 6 shall be assessed implementing results - based approach on the basis of common indicators related to output , result and impact . the set of common indicators shall include :


### each member state deciding to grant the basic income support based on payment entitlements shall manage a national reserve . ### each member state deciding to grant the basic income support based on payment entitlements shall manage a national reserve in accordance with the national legislation .


### 0 , 25% of the resources referred to in paragraph 1 shall be devoted to finance the activities of technical assistance on the initiative of the commission referred to in article 7 of the regulation [ hzr ] , including the european network for the common agricultural policy referred to in article 113 of this regulation and the european innovation partnership for agricultural productivity and sustainability referred to in article 114 of this regulation . those activities may concern previous and subsequent cap strategic plan periods . ### 0 , 25% of the resources referred to in article 79 paragraph 3 shall be devoted to finance the activities of technical assistance on the initiative of the commission referred to in article 7 of the regulation [ hzr ] , including the european network for the common agricultural policy referred to in article 113 of this regulation and the european innovation partnership for agricultural productivity and sustainability referred to in article 114 of this regulation . those activities may concern previous and subsequent cap strategic plan periods .


### based on the swot analysis referred to in article 103 and an assessment of needs referred to in article 96 , member state shall establish in the cap strategic plans an intervention strategy as referred to in article 97 in which quantitative targets and milestones shall be set to achieve the specific objectives set out to in article 6 . the targets shall be defined using a common set of result indicators set out in annex i . ### based on the strengths , weaknesses , opportunities and threats analysis referred to in article 103 and an assessment of needs referred to in article 96 , member state shall establish in the cap strategic plans an intervention strategy as referred to in article 97 in which quantitative targets and milestones shall be set to achieve the specific objectives set out to in article 6 . the targets shall be defined using a common set of result indicators set out in annex i .


### concerning the protection of geographical indications , it is important to have due regard to the agreement on trade - related aspects of intellectual property rights , and in particular articles 22 and 23 thereof , and to the general agreement on tariffs and trade which were approved by council decision 94 / 800 / ec . 12 __________________ 12 council decision 94 / 800 / ec of 22 december 1994 concerning the conclusion on behalf of the european community , as regards matters within its competence , of the agreements reached in the uruguay round multilateral negotiations . ### concerning the protection of geographical indications , it is important to have due regard to the agreement on trade - related aspects of intellectual property rights , and in particular articles 22 and 23 thereof , and to the general agreement on tariffs and trade which were approved by council decision 94 / 800 / ec . 12 in order to enhance protection and to combat counterfeiting more effectively , a facility should be introduced to permit the seizure of spirits suspected of infringing the protection given to geographical indications which are in transit through the union customs territory . __________________ 12 council decision 94 / 800 / ec of 22 december 1994 concerning the conclusion on behalf of the european community , as regards matters within its competence , of the agreements reached in the uruguay round multilateral negotiations .


### where the origin of a spirit drink is indicated , it shall correspond to the country or territory of origin in accordance with article 60 of regulation no 952 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council16 . __________________ 16 regulation no 952 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 9 october 2013 laying down the union customs code . ### where the origin of a spirit drink is indicated , it shall mean the place or region where the stage in the production process of the finished product which conferred on the spirit drink its character and essential definitive qualities took place . __________________


### any other false or misleading indication as to the provenance , origin , nature or essential qualities of the product , on the inner or outer packaging , advertising material or documents relating to the product concerned , and the packing of the product in a container liable to convey a false impression as to its origin ; ### any other false or misleading indication as to the provenance , origin , nature or essential qualities of the product , used on its presentation or labelling and liable to convey a false impression as to its origin ;


### a description of the method of obtaining the spirit drink and , where appropriate , the authentic and unvarying local methods as well as information on packaging , if the applicant group so determines and gives sufficient product - specific justification as to why the packaging must take place in the defined geographical area to safeguard quality , to ensure the origin or to ensure control , taking into account union law , in particular that on the free movement of goods and the free provision of services ; ### a description of the method of producing the spirit drink and , where appropriate , the authentic and unvarying local methods as well as information on packaging , if the applicant group so determines and gives sufficient product - specific justification as to why the packaging must take place in the defined geographical area to safeguard quality , to ensure the origin or to ensure control , taking into account union law , in particular that on the free movement of goods and the free provision of services ;


### the main points of the product specification : the name , a description of the spirit drink , including , where appropriate , specific rules concerning packaging and labelling , and a concise definition of the geographical area ; ### the main points of the product specification : the name , category , a description of the spirit drink , including , where appropriate , specific rules concerning packaging and labelling , and a concise definition of the geographical area ;


### the scrutiny of the application shall focus on the proposed amendment . ### the scrutiny of the application shall only address the proposed amendment .


### ‘ colouring’ means using in the preparation of a spirit drink one or more colours , as defined in point 2 of annex i to regulation no 1333 / 2008 . ### ‘ colouring’ means using in the production of a spirit drink one or more colours , as defined in point 2 of annex i to regulation no 1333 / 2008 .


### the term london gin may be supplemented by the term ‘ dry’ . ### the term london gin may incorporate the term ‘ dry’ .


### persons who work for an organisation or are in contact with it in the context of their work - related activities are often the first to know about threats or harm to the public interest which arise in this context . by ' blowing the whistle ' they play a key role in exposing and preventing breaches of the law and in safeguarding the welfare of society . however , potential whistleblowers are often discouraged from reporting their concerns or suspicions for fear of retaliation . ### persons who work or have worked for an organisation or are or were in contact with it are often the first to know about threats , criminal or illegal activities or harm to the public interest which arise in this context . by ' blowing the whistle ' they play a key role in exposing and preventing breaches of the law in safeguarding the welfare of society and in protecting fundamental right , including freedom of expression and information . whistleblowers play a crucial role in unveiling wrongdoing or unethical and dishonest conduct to the public interest . it is often difficult for them to assess the lawfulness of facts , but according to the european court of human rights the legal assessment is not the task of the whistleblowers , as long as they act in good faith and the facts are correct . however , potential whistleblowers are often discouraged from reporting their concerns or suspicions for fear of retaliation , when they expose irregularities , mismanagement , misuse of funds , maladministration or potential corruption related to the activity of public and private bodies within the union ; they are not truly protected and do not feel protected .


### evidence - gathering , detecting and addressing environmental crimes and unlawful conduct against the protection of the environment remain a challenge and need to be reinforced as acknowledged in the commission communication ' eu actions to improve environmental compliance and governance ' of 18 january 201840 . whilst whistleblower protection rules exist at present only in one sectorial instrument on environmental protection41 , the introduction of such protection appears necessary to ensure effective enforcement of the union environmental acquis , whose breaches can cause serious harm to the public interest with possible spill - over impacts across national borders . this is also relevant in cases where unsafe products can cause environmental harm . __________________ 40 com 10 final . 41 directive 2013 / 30 / eu of the european parliament and of the council , of 12 june 2013 , on safety of offshore oil and gas operations . ### evidence - gathering , detecting and addressing environmental crimes and unlawful conduct or omission as well as potential breaches against the protection of the environment remain a serious challenge and need to be reinforced as acknowledged in the commission communication ' eu actions to improve environmental compliance and governance ' of 18 january 201840 . whilst whistleblower protection rules exist at present only in one sectorial instrument on environmental protection 41 , the introduction of such protection is necessary to ensure effective enforcement of the union environmental acquis , whose breaches can cause serious harm to the public interest and the environment with possible spill - over impacts across national borders . this is also relevant in cases where unsafe products can cause environmental harm . __________________ 40 com 10 final . 41 directive 2013 / 30 / eu of the european parliament and of the council , of 12 june 2013 , on safety of offshore oil and gas operations .


### the protection of privacy and personal data is another area where whistleblowers are in a privileged position to disclose breaches of union law which can seriously harm the public interest . similar considerations apply for breaches of the directive on the security of network and information systems45 , which introduces notification of incidents and security requirements for entities providing essential services across many sectors and providers of key digital services . whistleblowers ' reporting in this area is particularly valuable to prevent security incidents that would affect key economic and social activities and widely used digital services . it helps ensuring the continuity of services which are essential for the functioning of the internal market and the wellbeing of society . __________________ 45 directive 2016 / 1148 of the european parliament and of the council of 6 july 2016 concerning measures for a high common level of security of network and information systems across the union . ### the protection of privacy and personal data , enshrined in articles 7 and 8 of the charter of fundamental rights and article 8 of the european convention on human rights , is another area where whistleblowers are in a privileged position to disclose breaches of union law which can harm the public interest . similar considerations apply for breaches of the directive on the security of network and information systems45 , which introduces notification of incidents and security requirements for entities providing essential services across many sectors and providers of key digital services . whistleblowers ' reporting in this area is particularly valuable to prevent security incidents that would affect key economic and social activities and widely used digital services , as well as to prevent any infringement of the union data protection legislation . it helps ensuring the continuity of services which are essential for society . __________________ 45 directive 2016 / 1148 of the european parliament and of the council of 6 july 2016 concerning measures for a high common level of security of network and information systems across the union .


### certain union acts , in particular in the area of financial services , such as regulation no 596 / 2014 on market abuse49 , and commission implementing directive 2015 / 2392 , adopted on the basis of that regulation50 , already contain detailed rules on whistleblower protection . such existing union legislation , including the list of part ii of the annex , should be complemented by the present directive , so that these instruments are fully aligned with its minimum standards whilst maintaining any specificities they provide for , tailored to the relevant sectors . this is of particular importance to ascertain which legal entities in the area of financial services , the prevention of money laundering and terrorist financing are currently obliged to establish internal reporting channels . _________________ 49 oj l 173 , p . 1 . 50 commission implementing directive 2015 / 2392 of 17 december 2015 on regulation no 596 / 2014 of the european parliament and of the council as regards reporting to competent authorities of actual or potential infringements of that regulation . ### certain union acts , in particular in the area of financial services , such as regulation no 596 / 2014 on market abuse49 , and commission implementing directive 2015 / 2392 , adopted on the basis of that regulation50 , already contain detailed rules on whistleblower protection . such existing union legislation , including the list of part ii of the annex , should be complemented by the present directive , so that these instruments are fully aligned with its minimum standards whilst maintaining any specificities they provide for , tailored to the relevant sectors . this is of particular importance to ascertain which legal entities in the area of financial services , the prevention of money laundering , the proper implementation of the late payments directive 2011 / 7 / eu , terrorist financing and cyber - crime are currently obliged to establish internal reporting channels . as these cases often involve highly complex international corporate and financial constructions , which are likely to be within the remit of differing jurisdictions , provisions for a unified point of contact for whistleblowers should be adopted . _________________ 49 oj l 173 , p . 1 . 50 commission implementing directive 2015 / 2392 of 17 december 2015 on regulation no 596 / 2014 of the european parliament and of the council as regards reporting to competent authorities of actual or potential infringements of that regulation .


### persons who report information about threats or harm to the public interest obtained in the context of their work - related activities make use of their right to freedom of expression . the right to freedom of expression , enshrined in article 11 of the charter of fundamental rights of the european union and in article 10 of the european convention on human rights , encompasses media freedom and pluralism . ### persons who report information about threats or harm to the public interest make use of their right to freedom of expression . freedom of expression , which is essential in a democratic society and is enshrined in article 11 of the charter of fundamental rights of the european union and in article 10 of the european convention on human rights , encompasses media freedom and pluralism .


### protection should , firstly , apply to persons having the status of ' workers ' , within the meaning of article 45 tfeu , as interpreted by the court of justice of the european union52 , i . e . persons who , for a certain period of time , perform services for and under the direction of another person , in return of which they receive remuneration . protection should thus also be granted to workers in non - standard employment relationships , including part - time workers and fixed - term contract workers , as well as persons with a contract of employment or employment relationship with a temporary agency , which are types of relationships where standard protections against unfair treatment are often difficult to apply . __________________ 52 judgments of 3 july 1986 , lawrie - blum , case 66 / 85 ; 14 october 2010 , union syndicale solidaires isère , case c - 428 / 09 ; 9 july 2015 , balkaya , case c - 229 / 14 ; 4 december 2014 , fnv kunsten , case c - 413 / 13 ; and 17 november 2016 , ruhrlandklinik , case c - 216 / 15 . ### protection should , firstly , apply to persons having the status of ' workers ' , within the meaning of article 45 tfeu , as interpreted by the court of justice of the european union52 , i . e . persons who , for a certain period of time , perform services for and under the direction of another person , in return of which they receive remuneration , including public and civil servants . protection should thus also be granted to workers in non - standard employment relationships , including part - time workers and fixed - term contract workers , as well as persons with a contract of employment or employment relationship with a temporary agency , which are types of relationships where standard protections against unfair treatment are often difficult to apply . finally , protection should also be granted to persons those employment contract has ended , as well as paid and unpaid trainees . __________________ 52 judgments of 3 july 1986 , lawrie - blum , case 66 / 85 ; 14 october 2010 , union syndicale solidaires isère , case c - 428 / 09 ; 9 july 2015 , balkaya , case c - 229 / 14 ; 4 december 2014 , fnv kunsten , case c - 413 / 13 ; and 17 november 2016 , ruhrlandklinik , case c - 216 / 15 .


### protection should also extend to further categories of natural or legal persons , who , whilst not being ' workers ' within the meaning of article 45 tfeu , can play a key role in exposing breaches of the law and may find themselves in a position of economic vulnerability in the context of their work - related activities . for instance , in areas such as product safety , suppliers are much closer to the source of possible unfair and illicit manufacturing , import or distribution practices of unsafe products ; in the implementation of union funds , consultants providing their services are in a privileged position to draw attention to breaches they witness . such categories of persons , including self - employed persons providing services , freelance , contractors , sub - contractors and suppliers , are typically subject to retaliation in the form of early termination or cancellation of contract of services , licence or permit , loss of business , loss of income , coercion , intimidation or harassment , blacklisting / business boycotting or damage to their reputation . shareholders and persons in managerial bodies , may also suffer retaliation , for instance in financial terms or in the form of intimidation or harassment , blacklisting or damage to their reputation . protection should also be granted to candidates for employment or for providing services to an organisation who acquired the information on breaches of law during the recruitment process or other pre - contractual negotiation stage , and may suffer retaliation for instance in the form of negative employment references or blacklisting / business boycotting . ### protection should also extend to further categories of natural or legal persons , who , whilst not being ' workers ' within the meaning of article 45 tfeu , can play a key role in exposing breaches of the law and may find themselves in a position of economic vulnerability in the context of their work - related activities . for instance , in areas such as product safety , suppliers are much closer to the source of possible unfair and illicit manufacturing , import or distribution practices of unsafe products ; in the implementation of union funds , consultants providing their services are in a privileged position to draw attention to breaches they witness . such categories of persons , including self - employed persons providing services , freelance , contractors , sub - contractors and suppliers , are typically subject to retaliation in the form of early termination or cancellation of contract of services , licence or permit , loss of business , loss of income , coercion , intimidation or harassment , blacklisting / business boycotting or damage to their reputation . shareholders and persons in managerial bodies , may also suffer retaliation , for instance in financial terms or in the form of intimidation or harassment , blacklisting or damage to their reputation . protection should also be granted to persons whose work - based relationship ended , to candidates for employment or for providing services to an organisation who acquired the information on breaches of law during the recruitment process or other pre - contractual negotiation stage , and may suffer retaliation for instance in the form of negative employment references or blacklisting / business boycotting .


### protection should also extend to further categories of natural or legal persons , who , whilst not being ' workers ' within the meaning of article 45 tfeu , can play a key role in exposing breaches of the law and may find themselves in a position of economic vulnerability in the context of their work - related activities . for instance , in areas such as product safety , suppliers are much closer to the source of possible unfair and illicit manufacturing , import or distribution practices of unsafe products ; in the implementation of union funds , consultants providing their services are in a privileged position to draw attention to breaches they witness . such categories of persons , including self - employed persons providing services , freelance , contractors , sub - contractors and suppliers , are typically subject to retaliation in the form of early termination or cancellation of contract of services , licence or permit , loss of business , loss of income , coercion , intimidation or harassment , blacklisting / business boycotting or damage to their reputation . shareholders and persons in managerial bodies , may also suffer retaliation , for instance in financial terms or in the form of intimidation or harassment , blacklisting or damage to their reputation . protection should also be granted to candidates for employment or for providing services to an organisation who acquired the information on breaches of law during the recruitment process or other pre - contractual negotiation stage , and may suffer retaliation for instance in the form of negative employment references or blacklisting / business boycotting . ### protection should also extend to persons facilitating the reporting and to investigative journalists who acquire and publish information on breaches , as well as to further categories of natural or legal persons , who , whilst not being ' workers ' within the meaning of article 45 tfeu , can play a key role in exposing breaches of the law and may find themselves in a position of economic or other type of vulnerability in the context of their work - related activities . for instance , in areas such as product safety , suppliers are much closer to the source of possible unfair and illicit manufacturing , import or distribution practices of unsafe products ; in the implementation of union funds , consultants providing their services are in a privileged position to draw attention to breaches they witness . such categories of persons , including self - employed persons providing services , freelance , contractors , sub - contractors and suppliers , are typically subject to retaliation in the form of early termination or cancellation of contract of services , licence or permit , loss of business , loss of income , coercion , intimidation or harassment , blacklisting / business boycotting or damage to their reputation . shareholders and persons in managerial bodies , may also suffer retaliation , for instance in financial terms or in the form of intimidation or harassment , blacklisting or damage to their reputation . protection should also be granted to candidates for employment or for providing services to an organisation who acquired the information on breaches of law during the recruitment process or other pre - contractual negotiation stage , and may suffer retaliation for instance in the form of negative employment references or blacklisting / business boycotting .


### effective whistleblower protection implies protecting also further categories of persons who , whilst not relying on their work - related activities economically , may nevertheless suffer retaliation for exposing breaches . retaliation against volunteers and unpaid trainees may take the form of no longer making use of their services , or of giving a negative reference for future employment or otherwise damaging their reputation . ### effective whistleblower protection implies protecting also further categories of persons who , whilst not relying on their work - related activities economically , may nevertheless suffer retaliation for exposing breaches . retaliation against volunteers and paid or unpaid trainees may take the form of no longer making use of their services , or of giving a negative reference for future employment or otherwise damaging their reputation .


### effective prevention of breaches of union law requires that protection is also granted to persons who provide information about potential breaches , which have not yet materialised , but are likely to be committed . for the same reasons , protection is warranted also for persons who do not provide positive evidence but raise reasonable concerns or suspicions . at the same time , protection should not apply to the reporting of information which is already in the public domain or of unsubstantiated rumours and hearsay . ### effective prevention of breaches of union law requires that protection is also granted to persons who provide information about potential breaches , which have not yet materialised , but are likely to be committed . for the same reasons , protection is warranted also for persons who do not provide positive evidence but raise well - grounded reasonable concerns or suspicions . at the same time , protection should not apply to the reporting of information which is already in the public domain or of unsubstantiated rumours and hearsay .


### the most appropriate persons or departments within a private legal entity to be designated as competent to receive and follow up on reports depend on the structure of the entity , but , in any case , their function should ensure absence of conflict of interest and independence . in smaller entities , this function could be a dual function held by a company officer well placed to report directly to the organisational head , such as a chief compliance or human resources officer , a legal or privacy officer , a chief financial officer , a chief audit executive or a member of the board . ### the most appropriate persons or departments within a private legal entity to be designated as competent to receive and follow up on reports depend on the structure of the entity , but , in any case , their function should ensure absence of conflict of interest , proper know - how and independence . in smaller entities , this function could be a dual function held by a company officer well placed to report directly to the organisational head , such as a chief compliance or human resources officer , a legal or privacy officer , a chief financial officer , a chief audit executive or a member of the board .


### in order to allow for effective communication with their dedicated staff , it is necessary that the competent authorities have in place and use specific channels , separate from their normal public complaints systems , that should be user - friendly and allow for written and oral , as well as electronic and non - electronic reporting . ### in order to allow for effective communication with their dedicated staff , it is necessary that the competent authorities have in place and use specific channels , separate from their normal public complaints systems , that should be user - friendly , confidential and allow for written and oral , as well as electronic and non - electronic reporting .


### dedicated staff members of the competent authorities , who are professionally trained , including on applicable data protection rules , would be necessary in order to handle reports and to ensure communication with the reporting person , as well as following up on the report in a suitable manner . ### dedicated staff members of the competent authorities , who are professionally trained , including on applicable data protection rules , would be necessary in order to handle reports and to ensure communication with the reporting person , as well as following up on the report in a suitable manner , as well as to provide information and advice to any interested person .


### it should not be possible to waive the rights and obligations established by this directive by contractual means . individuals’ legal or contractual obligations , such as loyalty clauses in contracts or confidentiality / non - disclosure agreements , cannot be relied on to preclude workers from reporting , to deny protection or to penalise them for having done so . at the same time , this directive should not affect the protection of legal and other professional privilege as provided for under national law . ### it should not be possible to waive the rights and obligations established by this directive by contractual means . individuals’ legal or contractual obligations , such as loyalty clauses in contracts or confidentiality / non - disclosure agreements , cannot be relied on to preclude workers from reporting , to deny protection or to penalise them for having done so . at the same time , this directive should not affect the protection of legal and other professional privilege , such as professional or medical secrecy , as provided for under national law .


### oral report through telephone lines , whether recorded or unrecorded ; ### oral report through recorded telephone lines ;


### the confidentiality regime applicable to reports , including a detailed description of the circumstances under which the confidential data of a reporting person may be disclosed . ### the confidentiality regime applicable to reports and its conditions , including a detailed description of the circumstances under which the confidential data of a reporting person may be disclosed ; the same confidentiality regime and protection measures shall be applicable to whistle blowers who initially reported anonymously , if they ask for such measures .


### member states shall ensure that competent authorities publish on their websites in a separate , easily identifiable and accessible section at least the following information : ### member states shall ensure that competent authorities publish on their websites in at least two official languages of the european union in a separate , easily identifiable and accessible section at least the following information :


### the confidentiality regime applicable to reports , and in particular the information in relation to the processing of personal data in accordance with article 13 of regulation 2016 / 679 , article 13 of directive 2016 / 680 and article 11 of regulation 45 / 2001 , as applicable . ### the confidentiality regime applicable to reports , and in particular the information in relation to the processing of personal data in accordance with article 5 and article 13 of regulation 2016 / 679 , article 13 of directive 2016 / 680 and article 11 of regulation 45 / 2001 , as applicable .


### the phone numbers , indicating whether conversations are recorded or unrecorded when using those phone lines ; ### the phone numbers , indicating that conversations are recorded ;


### a statement clearly explaining that persons making information available to the competent authority in accordance with this directive are not considered to be infringing any restriction on disclosure of information imposed by contract or by any legislative , regulatory or administrative provision , and are not to be involved in liability of any kind related to such disclosure . ### a statement clearly explaining that persons making information available to the competent authority in accordance with this directive are not considered to be infringing any restriction on disclosure of information imposed by contract or by any legislative , regulatory or administrative provision , and are not to be involved in liability of any kind related to such disclosure , except if they are knowingly reporting wrong information or acting in breach of directive 2016 / 943 of the european parliament and of the council of 8 june 2016 on the protection of undisclosed know - how and business information against their unlawful acquisition , use and disclosure .


### member states shall ensure that competent authorities keep records of every report received . ### member states shall ensure that competent authorities keep records of every report received . the reports will be stored for no longer that is necessary and proportionate for the reporting procedure and shall be deleted as soon as this procedure is closed . the personal data contained in those reports shall be processed in accordance with the european data protection laws .


### costs incurred in connection with the integration of the existing national infrastructures and their connection to the national uniform interfaces as well as in connection with hosting the national uniform interfaces shall be borne by the general budget of the union . ### costs incurred in connection with the integration of the existing national infrastructures and their connection to the national uniform interfaces as well as in connection with hosting and future developments of the national uniform interfaces shall be borne by the general budget of the union .


### a description of how the reclamation plant operator will comply with the minimum requirements for water quality and monitoring set out in section 2 of annex i ; ### a description of how the reclamation plant operator will comply at the point of compliance with the minimum requirements for water quality and monitoring set out in section 2 of annex i ;


### a description of how the reclamation plant operator will comply with the additional requirements proposed in the water reuse risk management plan . ### a description of how the reclamation plant operator will comply at the point of compliance with the additional requirements proposed in the water reuse risk management plan .


### fingerprints of the person ; ### only when the national law of the convicting member state allows for the storage of fingerprints on convicted union citizens , the fingerprints of the person ;


### by [ 24 months after implementation ] , the commission shall submit a report on the application of this framework decision to the european parliament and the council . the report shall assess the extent to which the member states have taken the necessary measures to comply with this framework decision , including the technical implementation . ### by [ 24 months after implementation ] , the commission shall submit a report on the application of this framework decision , to the european parliament and the council . the report shall assess the extent to which the member states have taken the necessary measures to comply with this framework decision , including the technical implementation , and shall include an assessment of the impact of this framework decision on fundamental rights .


### with 1 . 8% of eu gdp , down from 2 . 2% in 2009 , infrastructure investment activities in the union in 2016 were about 20% below investment rates before the global financial crisis . thus , while a recovery in investment - to - gdp ratios in the union can be observed , it remains below what might be expected in a strong recovery period and is insufficient to compensate years of underinvestment . more importantly , the current investment levels and forecasts do not cover the union ' s structural investment needs in the face of technological change and global competitiveness , including for innovation , skills , infrastructure , small and medium - sized enterprises and the need to address key societal challenges such as sustainability or population ageing . consequently , continued support is necessary to address market failures and sub - optimal investment situations to reduce the investment gap in targeted sectors to achieve the union ' s policy objectives . ### with 1 . 8% of eu gdp , down from 2 . 2% in 2009 , infrastructure investment activities in the union in 2016 were about 20% below investment rates before the global financial crisis . thus , while a recovery in investment - to - gdp ratios in the union can be observed , it remains below what might be expected in a strong recovery period and is insufficient to compensate years of underinvestment . more importantly , the current investment levels and forecasts do not cover the union ' s structural investment needs in the face of technological change and global competitiveness , including for innovation and creation , skills , infrastructure , small and medium - sized enterprises and the need to address key societal challenges such as sustainability or population ageing . consequently , continued support is necessary to address market failures and sub - optimal investment situations to reduce the investment gap in targeted sectors to achieve the union ' s policy objectives .


### the investeu fund should contribute to improving the competitiveness of the union , including in the field of innovation and digitisation , the sustainability of the union ' s economic growth , the social resilience and inclusiveness and the integration of the union capital markets , including solutions addressing their fragmentation and diversifying sources of financing for the union enterprises . to that end , it should support projects that are technically and economically viable by providing a framework for the use of debt , risk sharing and equity instruments underpinned by a guarantee from the union ' s budget and by contributions from implementing partners . it should be demand - driven while support under the investeu fund should at the same time focus on contributing to meeting policy objectives of the union . ### the investeu fund should contribute to improving the competitiveness and the social and cultural development of the union , including in the field of innovation , creation and digitisation , the sustainability of the union ' s economic growth , the social resilience and inclusiveness , strengthening humans skills and capabilities as key enablers of economic , social and cultural development and the integration of the union capital markets , including solutions addressing their fragmentation and diversifying sources of financing for the union enterprises . to that end , it should support projects that are technically and economically viable by providing a framework for the use of debt , risk sharing and equity instruments underpinned by a guarantee from the union ' s budget and by contributions from implementing partners . it should be demand - driven while support under the investeu fund should at the same time focus on contributing to meeting policy objectives of the union .


### whereas the level of overall investment in the union is increasing , investment in higher - risk activities such as research and innovation is still inadequate . the resulting underinvestment in research and innovation is damaging to the industrial and economic competitiveness of the union and the quality of life of its citizens . the investeu fund should provide the appropriate financial products to cover different stages in the innovation cycle and a wide range of stakeholders , in particular to allow the upscaling of and deployment of solutions at a commercial scale in the union , in order to make such solutions competitive on world markets . ### whereas the level of overall investment in the union is increasing , investment in higher - risk activities such as research and innovation , in particular with regards to risk capital of innovative and creative smes and organisations is still inadequate . the resulting underinvestment in research and innovation is damaging to the industrial and economic competitiveness of the union and the quality of life of its citizens . the investeu fund should provide the targeted financial products to cover different stages in the innovation cycle and a wide range of stakeholders , in particular young entrepreneurs , in particular to allow the upscaling of and deployment of solutions at a commercial scale in the union , in order to make such solutions competitive on world markets .


### as set out in the reflection paper on the social dimension of europe16 and the european pillar of social rights17 , building a more inclusive and fairer union is a key priority for the union to tackle inequality and foster social inclusion policies in europe . inequality of opportunities affects in particular access to education , training and health . investment in the social , skills and human capital - related economy , as well as in the integration of vulnerable populations in the society , can enhance economic opportunities , especially if coordinated at union level . the investeu fund should be used to support investment in education and training , help increase employment , in particular among the unskilled and long - term unemployed , and improve the situation with regard to intergenerational solidarity , the health sector , homelessness , digital inclusiveness , community development , the role and place of young people in society as well as vulnerable people , including third country nationals . the investeu programme should also contribute to the support of european culture and creativity . to counter the profound transformations of societies in the union and of the labour market in the coming decade , it is necessary to invest in human capital , microfinance , social enterprise finance and new social economy business models , including social impact investment and social outcomes contracting . the investeu programme should strengthen nascent social market eco - system , increasing the supply of and access to finance to micro - and social enterprises , to meet the demand of those who need it the most . the report of the high - level task - force on investing in social infrastructure in europe18 has identified investment gaps in social infrastructure and services , including for education , training , health and housing , which call for support , including at the union level . therefore , the collective power of public , commercial and philanthropic capital , as well as support from foundations , should be harnessed to support the social market value chain development and a more resilient union . _________________ 16 com 206 . 17 com 250 . 18 published as european economy discussion paper 074 in january 2018 . ### as set out in the reflection paper on the social dimension of europe16 and the european pillar of social rights17 , building a more inclusive and fairer union is a key priority for the union to tackle inequality and foster social inclusion policies in europe . inequality of opportunities affects in particular access to education and culture , training and health . investment in the social , cultural , skills and human capital - related economy , as well as in the integration of vulnerable populations in the society , can enhance economic opportunities , especially if coordinated at union level . the investeu fund should be used to support investment in education , culture and training , help increase employment , in particular among the unskilled and long - term unemployed , improve the situation with regard to digital inclusiveness and community development as well as intergenerational solidarity , the health sector , homelessness , the role and place of young people in society as well as vulnerable people , including third country nationals . the investeu programme should also contribute to the support of european culture and creativity with targeted support . to counter the profound transformations of societies in the union and of the labour market in the coming decade , it is necessary to invest in human capital , microfinance , social enterprise finance and new social economy business models , including social impact investment and social outcomes contracting . the investeu programme should strengthen nascent social market eco - system , increasing the supply of and access to finance to micro - and social enterprises , to meet the demand of those who need it the most . the report of the high - level task - force on investing in social infrastructure in europe18 has identified investment gaps in social infrastructure and services , including for education , training , health and housing , which call for support , including at the union level . _________________ 16 com 206 . 17 com 250 . 18 published as european economy discussion paper 074 in january 2018 .


### the extended efsi should address remaining market failures and sub - optimal investment situations and continue to mobilise private sector financing in investments crucial for europe’s future job creation – including for the youth – , growth and competitiveness with strengthened additionality . they include investments in the areas of energy , environment and climate action , social and human capital and related infrastructure , healthcare , research and innovation , cross - border and sustainable transport , as well as the digital transformation . in particular , the contribution of operations supported by the efsi to achieving the union’s ambitious targets set at the paris climate conference should be reinforced . energy interconnection priority projects and energy efficiency projects should also be increasingly targeted . in addition , efsi support to motorways should be avoided , unless it is needed to support private investment in transport in cohesion countries or in cross - border transport projects involving at least one cohesion country . for reasons of clarity , although they are already eligible , it should be explicitly laid down that projects in the fields of agriculture , fishery and aquaculture come within the general objectives eligible for efsi support . ### the extended efsi should address remaining market failures and sub - optimal investment situations and continue to mobilise private sector financing in investments crucial for europe’s future job creation – including for the youth – , growth and competitiveness with strengthened additionality . they include investments in the areas of energy , including alternative energy sources , environment and climate action , social and human capital and related infrastructure , healthcare , research and innovation , cross - border and sustainable transport , as well as the digital transformation . in particular , the contribution of operations supported by the efsi to achieving the union’s ambitious targets set at the paris climate conference should be reinforced . energy interconnection priority projects and energy efficiency projects should also be increasingly targeted . in addition , efsi support to motorways should be avoided , unless it is needed to support private investment in transport in cohesion countries or in cross - border transport projects involving at least one cohesion country . for reasons of clarity , although they are already eligible , it should be explicitly laid down that projects in the fields of agriculture , fishery and aquaculture come within the general objectives eligible for efsi support .


### this regulation should be reviewed as of 2024 and every 5 years thereafter in order to assess its overall functioning . the review should take into account evolving national circumstances and be informed by the results of the global stocktake of the paris agreement . ### this regulation should be reviewed within six months of the facilitative dialogue to be conducted under unfccc in 2018 and every 5 years thereafter in order to assess its overall functioning . the review should take into account evolving national circumstances , be informed by the results of the global stocktake of the paris agreement , and should , if appropriate , be accompanied by legislative proposals .


### transfers of pnr data by member states to third countries should be permitted only on a case - by - case basis and in compliance with framework decision 2008 / 977 / jha . to ensure the protection of personal data , such transfers should be subject to additional requirements relating to the purpose of the transfer , the quality of the receiving authority and the safeguards applicable to the personal data transferred to the third country . ### transfers of pnr data by member states to third countries should be permitted only on a case - by - case basis , and in compliance with the revised framework decision 2008 / 977 / jha . to ensure the protection of personal data , such data should only be transferred with precise knowledge of the intended processing of the pnr data in the third country , of the limits of access to the pnr - data of the competent authorities in the third country and their subsequent use and of other safeguards applicable to the personal data transferred to the third country .


### the transfer is necessary for the purposes of this directive specified in article 1 , and ### the transfer is necessary for the purposes of this directive specified in article 1 ,


### any processing of pnr data revealing a person’s race or ethnic origin , religious or philosophical belief , political opinion , trade union membership , health or sexual life shall be prohibited . in the event that pnr data revealing such information are received by the passenger information unit they shall be deleted immediately . ### any processing of pnr data revealing a person’s race or ethnic origin , religious or philosophical belief , political opinion , trade union membership , health or sexual life shall be prohibited . in the event that pnr data revealing such information are received by the passenger information unit they shall be deleted immediately . the data subject has the right to compensation , in case his private data are misused or are exposed to the public and media sphere , for reasons unrelated to the scope of this directive .


### having regard to the treaty on the functioning of the european union , and in particular articles 78 , 79 , 87 and 88 thereof , ### having regard to the treaty on the functioning of the european union , and in particular articles 78 and , 79 , 87 and 88 thereof ,


### requests for comparison of eurodac data by europol should be allowed only in specific cases , under specific circumstances and under strict conditions . ### requests for comparison of eurodac data by europol should be allowed only in specific cases , under specific circumstances and under strict conditions , in line with the the principles of necessity and proportionality enshrined in article 52 of the charter of fundamental rights of the european union and as interpreted by the case law of the court of justice of the european union1a . _________________ 1a cjeu , joined cases c - 293 / 12 and c - 594 / 12 , digital rights ireland ltd and seitlinger and others , judgment of the court of 8 april 2014 . cjeu , joined cases c - 203 / 15 and c - 698 / 15 , tele2 sverige ab v . post - och telestyrelsen and secretary of state for the home department v . tom watson and others , judgment of the court of 21 december 2016 .