### procedures for the registration , modification and possible cancellation of union or third country geographical indications in accordance with the trips agreement should be laid down whilst automatically recognising the status of existing protected geographical indications of the union . in view of making procedural rules on geographical indications consistent through all the sectors concerned , such procedures for spirit drinks should be modelled on the more exhaustive and well tested procedures for agricultural products and foodstuffs laid down in regulation no 1151 / 2012 while taking into account specificities of spirit drinks . in order to simplify the registration procedures and to ensure that information for food business operators and consumers is electronically available an electronic register of geographical indications should be established . ### procedures for the registration , modification and possible cancellation of union or third country geographical indications in accordance with the trips agreement should be laid down whilst automatically recognising the status of existing protected geographical indications of the union . in view of making procedural rules on geographical indications consistent through all the sectors concerned , such procedures for spirit drinks should be modelled on the procedures for agricultural products and foodstuffs laid down in regulation no 1151 / 2012 while taking into account specificities of spirit drinks . in order to simplify the registration procedures and to ensure that information for food business operators and consumers is electronically available an electronic register of geographical indications should be established .


### by adding to a spirit drink any of the following : ### by adding to a spirit drink any of the following individually or in combination :


### 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 correspond to 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 qualities took place .


### in order to take into account evolving consumer demands , technological progress , developments in the relevant international standards and the need to improve the economic conditions of production and marketing , the commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 43 concerning : ### in order to take into account evolving consumer demands , technological progress , developments in the relevant international standards and the need to improve the economic conditions of production and marketing whilst ensuring consumer protection , the commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 43 concerning :


### egg liqueur or advocaat or avocat or advokat is a spirit drink , whether or not flavoured , obtained from ethyl alcohol of agricultural origin , distillate or spirit , or a mixture thereof , the ingredients of which are quality egg yolk , egg white and sugar or honey . the minimum sugar or honey content must be 150 grams per litre expressed as invert sugar . the minimum content of pure egg yolk must be 140 grams per litre of the final product . ### egg liqueur or advocaat or avocat or advokat is a spirit drink , whether or not flavoured , obtained from ethyl alcohol of agricultural origin , distillate or spirit , or a mixture thereof , the ingredients of which are egg yolk , egg white and sugar or honey . the minimum sugar or honey content must be 150 grams per litre expressed as invert sugar . the minimum content of pure egg yolk must be 140 grams per litre of the final product .


### furthermore , the risk of alarm weapons and other types of blank firing weapons being converted to real firearms is high , and in some of the terrorist acts converted arms were used . it is therefore essential to address the problem of converted firearms being used in criminal offences , notably by including them in the scope of the directive . technical specifications for alarm and signal weapons as well as for salute and acoustic weapons should be adopted in order to ensure that they cannot be converted into firearms . ### technical specifications for alarm and signal weapons as well as for salute and acoustic weapons are adopted in order to ensure that they cannot be converted into firearms .


### for the purposes of this directive , ' broker ' shall mean any natural or legal person , other than a dealer whose trade or business consists wholly or partly in buying , selling or arranging the transfer within a member state , from one member state to another member state or exporting to a third country fully assembled firearms , their parts and ammunition . ### for the purposes of this directive , ' broker ' shall mean any natural or legal person , other than a dealer whose trade or business consists wholly or partly in buying , selling or arranging the transfer within a member state , from one member state to another member state or exporting to a third country or importing to a member state from a third country fully assembled firearms , their parts and ammunition .


### for the purposes of identifying and tracing each assembled firearm , member states shall , at the time of manufacture of each firearm or at the time of import to the union , require a unique marking including the name of the manufacturer , the country or place of manufacture , the serial number and the year of manufacture , if not already part of the serial number . this shall be without prejudice to the affixing of the manufacturer ' s trademark . ### for the purposes of identifying and tracing each assembled firearm , member states shall , at the time of manufacture of each firearm or at the time of import to the union or as soon as possible thereafter , require a unique marking including the name of the manufacturer , the country or place of manufacture , the serial number and the year of manufacture , if not already part of the serial number . this shall be without prejudice to the affixing of the manufacturer ' s trademark .


### are at least 18 years of age , except in relation to the possession of firearms for hunting and target shooting , provided that in that case persons of less than 18 years of age have parental permission , or are under parental guidance or the guidance of an adult with a valid firearms or hunting licence , or are within a licenced or otherwise approved training centre ; ### are at least 18 years of age , except in relation to the acquisition , other than through purchase , and possession of firearms for hunting and target shooting , provided that in that case persons of less than 18 years of age have parental permission , or are under parental guidance or the guidance of an adult with a valid firearms or hunting licence , or are within a licenced or otherwise approved training centre ;


### the commission shall submit every five years a report to the european parliament and the council on the application of this directive , accompanied , if appropriate , by proposals in particular as regards the categories of firearms of annex i and the issues related to new technologies such as 3d printing . the first report shall be submitted two years after the entry into force of this directive . ' ### the commission shall submit every five years a report to the european parliament and the council on the application of this directive , including a fitness check of the new provisions , accompanied , if appropriate , by proposals in particular as regards the categories of firearms of annex i and the issues related to new technologies such as 3d printing . the first report shall be submitted two years after the entry into force of this directive .


### alarm and signal weapons , salute and acoustic weapons as well as replicas ; ### firearms under categories a , b and points 1 to 4 of category c , after having been converted to alarm , signal , salute , acoustic , gas , paintball or airsoft , flobert , or percussion lock weapons .


### in light of the very sharp increase that has been experienced since 2014 in the number of applications for international protection made in the union and the resulting unprecedented pressure on member states’ asylum systems the union acknowledged the need to strengthen the application of the safe country of origin provisions of directive 2013 / 32 / eu , as an essential tool to support the swift processing of applications that are likely to be unfounded . in particular , in its conclusions of 25 and 26 june 2015 , the european council referred , in relation to the need to accelerate the treatment of asylum applications , to the intention of the commission as set out in its communication on a european agenda on migration8 to strengthen these provisions , including the possible establishment of an eu common list of safe countries of origin . moreover , the justice and home affairs council in its conclusions on safe countries of origin of 20 july 2015 welcomed the intention of the commission to strengthen the safe countries of origin provisions in directive 2013 / 32 / eu , including the possible establishment of an eu common list of safe countries of origin . __________________ 8 com 240 final , 13 . 5 . 2015 . ### in light of the very sharp increase that has been experienced since 2014 in the number of applications for international protection made in the union , and the very low rate of returns of those individuals who do not qualify for international protection , and the resulting unprecedented pressure on member states’ asylum systems the union acknowledged the need to strengthen the application of the safe country of origin provisions of directive 2013 / 32 / eu , as an essential tool to support the swift processing of applications that are likely to be unfounded . in particular , in its conclusions of 25 and 26 june 2015 , the european council referred , in relation to the need to accelerate the treatment of asylum applications , to the intention of the commission as set out in its communication on a european agenda on migration8 to strengthen these provisions , including the possible establishment of an eu common list of safe countries of origin . moreover , the justice and home affairs council in its conclusions on safe countries of origin of 20 july 2015 welcomed the intention of the commission to strengthen the safe countries of origin provisions in directive 2013 / 32 / eu , including the possible establishment of an eu common list of safe countries of origin . __________________ 8 com 240 final , 13 . 5 . 2015 .


### the commission should regularly review the situation in third countries that are on the eu common list of safe countries of origin . in case of sudden change for the worse in the situation of a third country on the eu common list , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union should be delegated to the commission in respect of suspending the presence of this third country from the eu common list for a period of one year where it considers , on the basis of a substantiated assessment , that the conditions set by directive 2013 / 32 / eu for regarding a third country as safe country of origin are no longer met . for the purpose of this substantiated assessment , the commission should take into consideration a range of sources of information at its disposal including in particular , its annual progress reports for third countries designated as candidate countries by the european council , regular reports from the european external action service and the information from member states , the european asylum support office , the united nations high commissioner for refugees , the council of europe and other relevant international organisations . the commission should be able to extend the suspension of the presence of a third country from the eu common list for a period of maximum one year , where it has proposed an amendment to this regulation in order to remove this third country from the eu common list of safe countries of origin . it is of particular importance that the commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level . the commission , when preparing and drawing up delegated acts , should ensure a simultaneous , timely and appropriate transmission of relevant documents to the european parliament and to the council . ### the commission should regularly review the situation in third countries in order to provide for both removing and adding third countries to the eu common list of safe countries of origin . in case of sudden change for the worse in the situation of a third country on the eu common list , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union should be delegated to the commission in respect of suspending the presence of this third country from the eu common list for a period of six months where it considers , on the basis of a substantiated assessment , that the conditions set by directive 2013 / 32 / eu for regarding a third country as safe country of origin are no longer met . for the purpose of this substantiated assessment , the commission should take into consideration information from the annual progress reports for third countries designated as candidate countries by the european council , regular reports from the european external action service and the information from member states , the european asylum support office , the frontex agency , the united nations high commissioner for refugees , the council of europe . the commission should be able to extend the suspension of the presence of a third country from the eu common list for a period of maximum one year , where it has proposed an amendment to this regulation in order to remove this third country from the eu common list of safe countries of origin . it is of particular importance that the commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level . the commission , when preparing and drawing up delegated acts , should ensure a simultaneous , timely and appropriate transmission of relevant documents to the european parliament and to the council .


### the commission shall regularly review the situation in third countries that are on the eu common list of safe countries of origin , based on a range of sources of information , including in particular regular reporting from the eeas and information from member states , easo , unhcr , the council of europe and other relevant international organisations . ### the commission shall regularly review the situation in third countries that are on the eu common list of safe countries of origin in order to add and remove third countries from this list , based on a range of sources of information , including in particular regular reporting from the eeas and information from member states , easo , frontex , the unhcr , and the council of europe .


### additionality , a key feature of the efsi , should be strengthened in the selection of projects . in particular , operations should only be eligible for efsi support if they address clearly identified market failures or sub - optimal investment situations . operations in infrastructure under the infrastructure and innovation window linking two or more member states , including e - infrastructure , should be considered additional given their inherent difficulty and their high added value for the union . ### additionality , a key feature of the efsi , needs to be defined more clearly and should be strengthened in the selection of projects . in particular , operations should only be eligible for efsi support if they address clearly identified market failures or sub - optimal investment situations . operations in infrastructure under the infrastructure and innovation window linking two or more member states , including e - infrastructure , should be considered additional given their inherent difficulty and their high added value for the union .


### 5 tonnes of pelagic stocks . ### 2 tonnes of pelagic stocks .


### member states shall produce the statistics referred to in articles 6 and 7 as well as the national statistical business registers referred to in article 9 , using any relevant data sources while avoiding excessive burden on respondents and taking due account of the cost effectiveness of the national statistical authorities . the national statistical authorities may use the following data sources for the production of the statistics and the national statistical business registers required under this regulation : ### member states shall produce the statistics referred to in articles 6 and 7 as well as the national statistical business registers referred to in article 9 , using any reliable data sources while avoiding excessive burden on respondents and taking due account of the cost effectiveness of the national statistical authorities . the national statistical authorities may use the following data sources for the production of the statistics and the national statistical business registers required under this regulation :


### national statistical business registers and the eurogroups register shall be the authoritative source for deriving high quality , consistent and coordinated register populations according to article 16 of this regulation , for the production of european statistics . ### national statistical business registers and the eurogroups register shall be the authentic and reliable source for deriving high quality , consistent and coordinated register populations according to article 16 of this regulation , for the production of european statistics .


### at the request of the commission , member states shall provide the additional information necessary to evaluate the quality of the statistical information . ### at the request of the commission , member states shall provide the additional information , and any updates to that information , needed to evaluate the quality of the statistical information .


### member states shall transmit to the commission , at its request , any relevant information with regard to the implementation of this regulation in the member states . ### member states shall transmit to the commission , at its request , any relevant information , and updates to that information , with regard to the implementation of this regulation in the member states .


### 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 , 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 union - wide and / or member state specific market failures and sub - optimal investment situations to reduce the investment gap in targeted sectors to achieve the union ' s policy objectives .


### small and medium - sized enterprises play a crucial role in the union . however , they face challenges when accessing finance because of their perceived high risk and lack of sufficient collateral . additional challenges arise from smes ' need to stay competitive by engaging in digitisation , internationalisation and innovation activities and skilling up their workforce . moreover , compared to larger enterprises , they have access to a more limited set of financing sources : they typically do not issue bonds , have only limited access to stock exchanges or large institutional investors . the challenge in accessing finance is even greater for those smes whose activities focus on intangible assets . smes in the union rely heavily on banks and debt financing in the form of bank overdrafts , bank loans or leasing . supporting smes that face the above challenges and providing more diversified sources of funding is necessary for increasing the ability of smes to finance their creation , growth and development , withstand economic downturns , and for making the economy and the financial system more resilient during economic downturn or shocks . this is also complementary to the initiatives already undertaken in the context of the capital markets union . the investeu fund should provide an opportunity to focus on specific , more targeted financial products . ### small and medium - sized enterprises , in particular those in the cultural and creative sector , play a crucial role in the union . however , they face challenges when accessing finance because of their perceived high risk and lack of sufficient collateral . additional challenges arise from smes ' need to stay competitive by engaging in digitisation , internationalisation and innovation activities and skilling up their workforce . moreover , compared to larger enterprises , they have access to a more limited set of financing sources : they typically do not issue bonds , have only limited access to stock exchanges or large institutional investors . the challenge in accessing finance is even greater for those smes whose activities focus on intangible assets , such as intellectual property rights in particular in the cultural and creative sectors . smes in the union rely heavily on banks and debt financing in the form of bank overdrafts , bank loans or leasing . supporting smes that face the above challenges and providing more diversified sources of funding is necessary for increasing the ability of smes to finance their creation , growth and development , withstand economic downturns , and for making the economy and the financial system more resilient during economic downturn or shocks . this is also complementary to the initiatives already undertaken in the context of the capital markets union . the investeu fund should provide an opportunity to focus on specific , more targeted financial products .


### 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 , training , health , culture and cultural heritage . investment in the social , skills and human capital - related economy , as well as in the integration of vulnerable populations , and in particular persons with a disability , 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 , as well as in maintenance and modernisation of educational facilities , including seismic retrofit and the elimination of architectural barriers , 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 , gender equality , the role and place of young people in society as well as vulnerable people , including persons with a disability and third country nationals . the investeu programme should also contribute to the support of culture and creativity in europe , whereby cultural and creative industries are key - drivers for growth and do play a role traditionally at local and regional level , ensuring the socio - economic inclusion and allowing for an integrated sustainable urban regeneration . 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 the nascent social market eco - system , increasing the supply of and access to finance to micro - and social enterprises , ensuring that it meets 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 final . 17 com 250 final . 18 published as european economy discussion paper 074 in january 2018 .


### in selecting implementing partners for the deployment of the investeu fund , the commission should consider the counterpart ' s capacity to fulfil the objectives of the investeu fund and contribute its own resources , in order to ensure adequate geographical coverage and diversification , to crowd - in private investors and to provide sufficient risk diversification as well as new solutions to address market failures and sub - optimal investment situations . given its role under the treaties , its capacity to operate in all member states and the existing experience under the current financial instruments and the efsi , the european investment bank group should remain a privileged implementing partner under the investeu fund ' s eu compartment . in addition to the eib group , national promotional banks or institutions should be able to offer a complementary financial product range given that their experience and capabilities at regional level could be beneficial for the maximisation of the impact of public funds on the territory of the union . moreover , it should be possible to have other international financial institutions as implementing partners , in particular when they present a comparative advantage in terms of specific expertise and experience in certain member states . it should also be possible for other entities fulfilling the criteria laid down in the financial regulation to act as implementing partners . ### in selecting implementing partners for the deployment of the investeu fund , the relevant considerations should include the counterpart ' s capacity to fulfil the objectives of the investeu fund and to contribute its resources to the fund , in order to ensure adequate geographical coverage and diversification , to crowd - in private investors and to provide sufficient risk diversification as well as new solutions to address union - wide and / or member state specific market failures and sub - optimal investment situations . given its role under the treaties , its capacity to operate in all member states and the existing experience under the current financial instruments and the efsi , the european investment bank group should indirectly manage the eu guarantee for the eu compartment and the member state compartment . the implementing partners are as follows : the eib group under the eib window of the eu compartment the national promotional banks or institutions with whom a guarantee agreement is signed under the npbi window of the eu compartment . in line with its role in the treaties , the eib provides all strategic banking competences for the commission and other implementing partners . in addition to the eib group , national and regional promotional banks or institutions , where they are implementing partners , should be able to offer a complementary financial product range given that their experience and capabilities at regional level could be beneficial for the maximisation of the impact of public funds on the territory of the union .


### in order to ensure that interventions under the eu compartment of the investeu fund focus on market failures and sub - optimal investment situations at union level , but , at the same time , satisfy the objectives of best possible geographic outreach , the eu guarantee should be allocated to implementing partners , which alone or together with other implementing partners , can cover at least three member states . however , it is expected that around 75 % of the eu guarantee under the eu compartment would be allocated to implementing partner or partners that can offer financial products under the investeu fund in all member states . ### interventions under the eu compartment of the investeu fund should focus on market failures and sub - optimal investment situations at union level , but , at the same time , satisfy the objectives of best possible geographic outreach . however , it is expected that around 75 % of the eu guarantee under the eu compartment would be allocated to implementing partner or partners that can offer financial products under the investeu fund in all member states .


### in order to ensure that interventions under the eu compartment of the investeu fund focus on market failures and sub - optimal investment situations at union level , but , at the same time , satisfy the objectives of best possible geographic outreach , the eu guarantee should be allocated to implementing partners , which alone or together with other implementing partners , can cover at least three member states . however , it is expected that around 75 % of the eu guarantee under the eu compartment would be allocated to implementing partner or partners that can offer financial products under the investeu fund in all member states . ### in order to ensure that interventions under both compartments of the investeu fund focus on union - wide and / or member state specific market failures and sub - optimal investment situations at union level , but , at the same time , satisfy the objectives of best possible geographic outreach , the eu guarantee should be allocated to implementing partners , which alone or together with other implementing partners , can cover one or more member states . however , it is expected that around 75 % of the eu guarantee under the eu compartment would be allocated to eib group that can offer financial products under the investeu fund in all member states .


### research , innovation and digitisation policy window : comprises research and innovation activities , transfer of research results to the market , demonstration and deployment of innovative solutions and support to scaling up of innovative companies other than smes as well as digitisation of union industry ; ### research , innovation culture , education and digitisation policy window : comprises research and innovation activities , transfer of research results to the market , demonstration and deployment of innovative solutions and support to scaling up of innovative companies other than smes as well as digitisation of union industry and capacity building in the cci’s ;


### smes policy window : access to and availability of finance for smes and , in duly justified cases , for small mid - cap companies ; ### smes policy window : access to and availability of finance for smes and , in duly justified cases , for small mid - cap companies ; designing products which respond to particular challenges faced by smes in need of capital to expand their operations ;


### provide advice to the commission about market failures and sub - optimal investment situations and market conditions ; ### provide advice to the commission about union - wide and / or member state specific market failures and sub - optimal investment situations and market conditions ;


### each configuration of the investment committee shall be composed of six remunerated external experts . the experts shall be selected in accordance with [ article 237 ] of the [ financial regulation ] and be appointed by the commission for a fixed term of up to four years . their term shall be renewable but shall not exceed seven years in total . the commission may decide to renew the term of office of an incumbent member of the investment committee without availing itself of the procedure laid down in this paragraph . ### each configuration of the investment committee shall be composed of twelve remunerated external experts . the independent experts shall be selected in accordance with [ article 237 ] of the [ financial regulation ] . six of them will be appointed by the commission , six of them by the implementing partners through a rotation system between the eib national promotional banks or institutions for a fixed term of up to four years . their term shall be renewable but shall not exceed seven years in total . the commission and the implementing partners may decide to renew the term of office of an incumbent member of the investment committee without availing itself of the procedure laid down in this paragraph .


### the investeu portal shall be established by the commission . it shall be an easily accessible and user - friendly project database , providing relevant information for each project . ### the investeu portal shall be established by the commission . it shall be a user - friendly project database , available in all the eu ' s official languages , providing relevant information for each project .


### education and training , including early childhood education and care , educational facilities , student housing and digital equipment ; ### education and training , including early childhood education , pre - school education , upbringing and care , interventions aimed at the&#160 ; maintenance and modernisation of educational facilities , including seismic retrofit and the elimination of architectural barriers , student housing and digital equipment ;


### the union ' s ambitious external investment plan is needed to support investments starting in africa and the union ' s neighbourhood as a means to promote the sustainable development goals of the united nations 2030 agenda for sustainable development as well as the commitments under the recently revised european neighbourhood policy thus addressing root causes of migration . it should also contribute to the implementation of the paris agreement on climate change . ### the union ' s ambitious external investment plan is needed to engineer , guide and support investments in africa and the union ' s neighbourhood for a start , as a means to contribute to the achievement of the sustainable development goals of the united nations 2030 agenda for sustainable development as well as the commitments under the recently revised european neighbourhood policy , thus addressing root causes of migration . it should also contribute to the implementation of the paris agreement on climate change .


### the efsd guarantee should be granted to eligible counterparts for financing and investment operations or guarantee instruments for an initial investment period up to 31 december 2020 . ### the efsd guarantee should be granted to eligible counterparts for financing and investment operations or guarantee instruments for an initial investment period up to 31 december 2020 , with a possibility for extension if deemed necessary .


### the purpose of the efsd as an integrated financial package shall be to support through the supply of financing capacity in the form of grants , guarantees and other financial instruments to eligible counterparts investments and increased access to financing starting in african and neighbourhood partner countries . ### the purpose of the efsd as an integrated financial package shall be to guide , support and manage , through the supply of financing capacity in the form of grants , guarantees and other financial instruments to eligible counterparts , investments and increased access to financing starting in african and neighbourhood partner countries .


### the efsd shall contribute to the achievement of the sustainable development goals of the 2030 agenda with a particular focus on sustainable growth , job creation , socio - economic sectors and on the support to micro , small and medium sized enterprises , thus addressing root causes of migration and contributing to sustainable reintegration of returned migrants in their countries of origin while maximising additionality , delivering innovative products and crowding in private sector funds . ### the efsd shall contribute to the achievement of the sustainable development goals of the 2030 agenda with a particular focus on sustainable development , inclusive growth , job creation , poverty eradication , socio - economic sectors and on the development of the local private sector through the support to micro , small and medium sized enterprises , thus addressing root causes of migration and contributing to the sustainable reintegration of returned migrants in their countries of origin , while maximising additionality , delivering innovative products and solutions and crowding in private sector funds .


### the efsd shall be composed of regional investment platforms , which will combine financing from existing blending facilities and the efsd guarantee . ### the efsd shall be composed of regional investment platforms , which will combine financing from existing blending facilities and the efsd guarantee . the first two regional investment platforms shall cover africa and the eu neighbourhood , with the possibility of expanding the coverage to other regions of the acp at a later stage , as well as latin america and asia .


### target socio - economic sectors , in particular infrastructure including sustainable energy , water , transport , information and communications technologies , environment , sustainable use of natural resources and blue growth , social infrastructure , human capital , in order to improve the socio - economic environment ; ### target socio - economic sectors , in particular infrastructure including sustainable energy , water , transport , information and communications technologies , digital innovation , environment , sustainable use of natural resources and blue growth , social infrastructure , human capital , in order to improve the socio - economic environment ;


### member states may contribute to the efsd guarantee fund in the form of guarantees or cash . subject to commission approval , other contributors may contribute , in the form of cash . ### member states may contribute to the efsd guarantee fund in the form of guarantees or cash . subject to commission approval , and that of member states where relevant , other contributors may contribute , in the form of cash .


### the commission shall inform the european parliament and the council about the contributions confirmed . ### the commission shall inform the european parliament , the council and member states where relevant about the contributions confirmed .


### at the request of the member states , the contributions made by them may be earmarked for the initiation of projects in specific regions , countries , sectors or investment windows . ### at the request of the member states , the contributions made by them may be earmarked for the initiation of projects in specific regions , countries , sectors or investment windows , and the member states shall be kept informed of the ongoing status and effects of such projects in question .


### the amount of own resources that the counterpart is ready to mobilise for the investment window . ### the amount of own resources that the counterpart / counterparts is / are ready to mobilise for the investment window .


### the commission shall submit an annual report to the european parliament and to the council on the financing and investment operation covered by the efsd guarantee . this report shall be made public . it shall include the following elements : ### the commission shall submit an annual report to the european parliament , to the council and to contributing member states where relevant on the financing and investment operation covered by the efsd guarantee . this report shall be made public . it shall include the following elements :


### the commission shall submit an annual report to the european parliament and to the council on the financing and investment operation covered by the efsd guarantee . this report shall be made public . it shall include the following elements : ### the commission shall submit an annual report to the european parliament and to the council on the financing and investment operation covered by the efsd guarantee . this report shall be made public . it shall include the following measurable elements :


### an assessment of the added value , the mobilisation of private sector resources , the estimated and actual outputs and the outcomes and impact of the financing and investment operations covered by the efsd guarantee on an aggregated basis , including the impact on employment creation ; ### an assessment of the added value , the mobilisation of private sector resources , the estimated and actual outputs and the outcomes and impact of the financing and investment operations covered by the efsd guarantee on an aggregated basis , assessing the impact and output according to a pre - determined scoreboard of indicators aimed at measuring the achievement ratio of the efsd objectives , taking into account the indicators of the sustainable development goals and the mechanisms employed towards its measurement ;


### this regulation applies to emissions and removals of the greenhouse gases listed in annex i , section a , as reported pursuant to article 7 of regulation no 525 / 2013 occurring in any of the following land accounting categories on the territories of member states during the period from 2021 to 2030 : ### this regulation applies to emissions and removals of the greenhouse gases listed in annex i , section a , as reported pursuant to article 7 of regulation no 525 / 2013 occurring in any of the following land accounting categories and other categories on the territories of member states during the period from 2021 to 2030 :


### for the period from 2021 to 2025 and from 2026 to 2030 , taking into account the flexibilities provided for in article 11 , each member state shall ensure that emissions do not exceed removals , calculated as the sum of total emissions and removals on their territory in the land accounting categories referred to in article 2 combined , as accounted in accordance with this regulation . ### for the period from 2021 to 2025 and from 2026 to 2030 , taking into account the flexibilities provided for in article 11 , each member state shall ensure that emissions do not exceed removals , calculated as the sum of total emissions and removals on their territory in the land accounting categories and other categories referred to in article 2 combined , as accounted in accordance with this regulation . during the first review , as stipulated in article 15 , the commission shall review the above rule in accordance with relevant decisions adopted by bodies of the unfccc or of the paris agreement .


### the commission shall review the national forestry accounting plans and technical corrections and assess the extent to which the proposed new or corrected forest reference levels have been determined in accordance with the principles and requirements set out in paragraphs and as well as article 5 . to the extent that this is required in order to ensure compliance with the principles and requirements set out in paragraphs and as well as article 5 , the commission may recalculate the proposed new or corrected forest reference levels . ### the commission shall shall carry out review the national forestry accounting frameworks and technical corrections and conduct a technical analysis of the extent to which the proposed new or corrected forest reference levels have been determined in accordance with the principles and requirements set out in paragraphs and as well as article 5 until corresponding modalities , procedures and guidelines are developed by bodies of the unfccc . to the extent that this is required in order to ensure compliance with the principles and requirements set out in paragraphs and as well as article 5 , the commission may provide technical recommendations to member states in order to facilitate a technical revision of the proposed new or corrected forest reference levels .


### where total emissions exceed removals in a member state and that member state has deleted annual emission allocations under regulation [ ] on binding annual greenhouse gas emission reductions by member states from 2021 to 2030 this quantity shall be taken into account for the member state ' s compliance with its commitment pursuant to article 4 . ### where total emissions exceed removals in a member state and that member state has chosen to delete annual emission allocations under regulation [ ] on binding annual greenhouse gas emission reductions by member states from 2021 to 2030 , as one of the flexibility options this quantity shall be taken into account for the member state ' s compliance with its commitment pursuant to article 4 .


### where total emissions exceed removals in a member state and that member state has deleted annual emission allocations under regulation [ ] on binding annual greenhouse gas emission reductions by member states from 2021 to 2030 this quantity shall be taken into account for the member state ' s compliance with its commitment pursuant to article 4 . ### where total emissions exceed removals in a member state and that member state has deleted annual emission allocations under regulation [ ] on binding annual greenhouse gas emission reductions by member states from 2021 to 2030 this quantity shall be taken into account for the member state ' s compliance with its commitment pursuant to article 4 and article 1 of regulation [ ] on binding annual greenhouse gas emission reductions by member states from 2021 to 2030 .


### the commission shall report to the european parliament and to the council by 28 february 2024 and every five years thereafter on the operation of this regulation , its contribution to the eu ' s overall 2030 greenhouse gas emission reduction target and its contribution to the goals of the paris agreement , and may make proposals if appropriate . ### the commission shall report to the european parliament and to the council by 28 february 2024 and every five years thereafter on the operation of this regulation , its contribution to the eu ' s overall 2030 greenhouse gas emission reduction target and its contribution to the goals of the paris agreement , with a view of keeping this regulation in line with relevant decisions adopted by bodies of the unfccc or of the paris agreement , and may make proposals if appropriate .


### reference levels shall be consistent with greenhouse gas inventories and relevant historical data and shall be based on transparent , complete , consistent , comparable and accurate information . in particular , the model used to construct the reference level shall be able to reproduce historical data from the national greenhouse gas inventory . ### reference levels shall be consistent with greenhouse gas inventories and relevant historical data and shall be based on transparent , complete , consistent , comparable and accurate information . greenhouse gas inventories shall be aligned with relevant decisions adopted by bodies of the unfccc or of the paris agreement . in particular , the model used to construct the reference level shall be able to reproduce historical data from the national greenhouse gas inventory .


### forest characteristics , including age - class structure , increments , rotation length and other information on forest management activities under ‘ business as usual’ ; ### forest characteristics , including age - class structure , increments , rotation length and other relevant information on forest management activities


### fostering the integrated social , economic and environmental development , cultural heritage and security in urban areas ; ### fostering the integrated social , cultural , economic and environmental development and security in urban areas ;


### fostering the integrated social , economic and environmental local development , cultural heritage and security , including for rural and coastal areas also through community - led local development . ### fostering the integrated social , cultural , economic and environmental local development and security , including for rural and coastal areas also through community - led local development .


### part i of this directive takes over the provisions of directive 2009 / 102 / ec as regards all single - member limited liability companies . it requires that in case all shares come to be held by a single shareholder , its identity should be disclosed to the public by the entry in the register . this directive also provides that decisions taken by the single shareholder exercising the power of the general meeting as well as the contracts between the shareholder and the company should be recorded in writing , unless they relate to contracts concluded under market conditions in the ordinary course of business . ### part i of this directive takes over the provisions of directive 2009 / 102 / ec as regards all single - member limited liability companies . it requires that in case all shares come to be held by a single shareholder , its identity should be disclosed to the public by the entry in the register . this directive also provides that decisions taken by the single shareholder exercising the power of the general meeting as well as the contracts between the shareholder and the company should be recorded in writing and kept in digital format , unless they relate to contracts concluded under market conditions in the ordinary course of business .


### establishing single - member limited liability companies as subsidiaries in other member states entails costs due to the diverse legal and administrative requirements which must be met in the member states concerned . such divergent requirements continue to exist among member states . ### establishing single - member limited liability companies as subsidiaries in other member states entail costs due to the diverse legal and administrative requirements which must be met in the member states concerned . such divergent requirements continue to exist among member states and create barriers for companies , in particular smes , to establish and operate cross - border .


### in line with the europe 2020 strategy , the review of the small business act for europe18 advocated further progress in making smart regulation a reality , enhancing market access and promoting entrepreneurship , job creation and inclusive growth . __________________ 18 com 78 final , 23 . 2 . 2011 . ### in line with the europe 2020 strategy , the review of the small business act for europe18 advocated further progress in making smart regulation a reality , enhancing market access and promoting entrepreneurship , innovation , job creation and inclusive growth . __________________ 18 com 78 final , 23 . 2 . 2011 .


### in order to facilitate the cross - border activities of smes and the establishment of single - member companies as subsidiaries in other member states , the costs and administrative burdens involved in setting - up these companies should be reduced . ### in order to foster more entrepreneurship in europe and to facilitate the cross - border activities of smes and the establishment of single - member companies as subsidiaries in other member states , the costs and administrative burdens involved in setting - up these companies should be reduced and the rules for businesses on the internal market of the union should be simplified .


### the coordination measures provided for in this directive shall apply to the laws , regulations and administrative provisions of the member states relating to : ### part 1 of this directive shall apply to the laws , regulations and administrative provisions of the member states relating to :


### ' single - member company ' means a company whose shares are held by a single person ; ### ' single - member company ' means a company with limited liability whose shares are held by a single person ;


### member states shall not hinder sups from being single - members in other companies . ### member states shall not hinder sups from being single - members in other companies . member states may establish rules prohibiting sups from being single - members in other limited liability companies if this leads to cross or circular ownership .


### member states shall provide that the single - member shall not be liable for any amount exceeding the subscribed share capital . ### member states shall provide that the single - member shall not be liable for any amount exceeding the subscribed share capital , without prejudice to other provisions on liability laid down in national law .


### national on - line registration web - sites shall include links to the registration web - sites in other member states . member states shall ensure that the following templates are used for on - line registration : ### national on - line registration web - sites shall include links to the registration web - sites in other member states . member states shall ensure online registration with the following templates :


### member states shall not make the registration of an sup conditional on obtaining any licence or authorisation . the registration of the sup , all documents provided during the process of registration and subsequent changes to them , shall be disclosed in the relevant register of companies immediately after registration . ### member states shall not make the registration of an sup conditional on obtaining any licence or authorisation . this is without prejudice to provisions of national law that make carrying out certain activities after registration conditional on obtaining a licence or authorisation . these activities shall be listed in national on - line registration websites .


### penalties ### sanctions


### member states shall provide for penalties applicable to infringements of the national provisions adopted to implement this directive and shall take all the measures necessary to ensure that those penalties are enforced . the penalties provided for shall be effective , proportionate and dissuasive . ### member states shall provide for sanctions applicable to infringements of the national provisions adopted to implement this directive and shall take all the measures necessary to ensure that those sanctions are enforced . the sanctions provided for shall be effective , proportionate and dissuasive .


### the multiannual financial framework set out in regulation xx / xx6 provides that the union budget must continue to support fisheries and maritime policies . the emff budget should amount , in current prices , to eur 6 140 000 000 . emff resources should be split between shared , direct and indirect management . eur 5 311 000 000 should be allocated to support under shared management and eur 829 000 000 to support under direct and indirect management . in order to ensure stability in particular with regard to the achievement of the objectives of the cfp , the definition of national allocations under shared management for the 2021 - 2027 programming period should be based on the emff 2014 - 2020 shares . specific amounts should be reserved for the outermost regions , control and enforcement and collection and processing of data for fisheries management and scientific purposes , while amounts for permanent cessation and extraordinary cessation of fishing activities should be capped . _________________ 6 oj c [ … ] , [ … ] , p . [ … ] . ### the multiannual financial framework set out in regulation xx / xx6 provides that the union budget must continue to support fisheries and maritime policies . the emff multiannual budget should amount , in current prices , to eur 6 140 000 000 . emff resources should be split between shared , direct and indirect management . eur 5 311 000 000 should be allocated to support under shared management and eur 829 000 000 to support under direct and indirect management . in order to ensure stability in particular with regard to the achievement of the objectives of the cfp , the definition of national allocations under shared management for the 2021 - 2027 programming period should be based on the emff 2014 - 2020 shares . specific amounts should be reserved for the outermost regions , control and enforcement and collection and processing of data for fisheries management and scientific purposes , while amounts for permanent cessation and extraordinary cessation of fishing activities should be capped . _________________ 6 oj c [ … ] , [ … ] , p . [ … ] .


### the financial envelope for the implementation of the emff for the period 2021 - 2027 shall be eur 6 140 000 000 in current prices . ### the financial envelope for the multiannual implementation of the emff for the period 2021 - 2027 shall be eur 6 140 000 000 in current prices .


### the regular weekly rest periods and any weekly rest of more than 45 hours taken in compensation for previous reduced weekly rest shall not be taken in a vehicle . they shall be taken in a suitable accommodation , with adequate sleeping and sanitary facilities ; ### the regular weekly rest periods , reduced weekly rest periods and any weekly rest of more than 45 hours taken in compensation for previous reduced weekly rest shall be taken in a suitable location , with adequate sleeping and sanitary facilities . that accommodation shall be :


### for the purpose of verifying compliance with this regulation and detecting and preventing the illicit manufacture of explosives , economic operators shall retain the data referred to in paragraph 2 , together with the name and address of the customer , for one year from the date of transaction . during that period , the data shall be made available for inspection at the request of the competent inspection authorities or law enforcement authorities . ### for the purpose of verifying compliance with this regulation and detecting and preventing the illicit manufacture of explosives , economic operators shall retain the data referred to in paragraph 2 , together with the name and address of the customer , for two years from the date of transaction . during that period , the data shall be made available for inspection at the request of the competent inspection authorities or law enforcement authorities .


### this regulation contributes to the protection of public security while establishing appropriate and robust safeguards to ensure protection of the fundamental rights at stake . this includes the rights to respect for private life and to the protection of personal data , the right to effective judicial protection , the right to freedom of expression , including the freedom to receive and impart information , the freedom to conduct a business , and the principle of non - discrimination . competent authorities and hosting service providers should only adopt measures which are necessary , appropriate and proportionate within a democratic society , taking into account the particular importance accorded to the freedom of expression and information , which constitutes one of the essential foundations of a pluralist , democratic society , and is one of the values on which the union is founded . measures constituting interference in the freedom of expression and information should be strictly targeted , in the sense that they must serve to prevent the dissemination of terrorist content , but without thereby affecting the right to lawfully receive and impart information , taking into account the central role of hosting service providers in facilitating public debate and the distribution and receipt of facts , opinions and ideas in accordance with the law . ### this regulation contributes to the protection of public security while establishing appropriate and robust safeguards to ensure protection of the fundamental rights at stake . this includes the rights to respect for private life and to the protection of personal data , the right to effective judicial protection , the right to freedom of expression , including the freedom to receive and impart information , the freedom to conduct a business , and the principle of non - discrimination . competent authorities and hosting service providers should only adopt measures which are necessary , appropriate and proportionate within a democratic society , taking into account the particular importance accorded to the freedom of expression and information , which constitutes one of the essential foundations of a pluralist , democratic society , and is one of the values on which the union is founded . any measures should avoid interference in the freedom of expression and information and in so far as possible should serve to prevent the dissemination of terrorist content through a strictly targeted approach , but without thereby affecting the right to lawfully receive and impart information , taking into account the central role of hosting service providers in facilitating public debate and the distribution and receipt of facts , opinions and ideas in accordance with the law .


### the right to an effective remedy is enshrined in article 19 teu and article 47 of the charter of fundamental rights of the european union . each natural or legal person has the right to an effective judicial remedy before the competent national court against any of the measures taken pursuant to this regulation , which can adversely affect the rights of that person . the right includes , in particular the possibility for hosting service providers and content providers to effectively contest the removal orders before the court of the member state whose authorities issued the removal order . ### the right to an effective remedy is enshrined in article 19 teu and article 47 of the charter of fundamental rights of the european union . each natural or legal person has the right to an effective judicial remedy before the competent national court against any of the measures taken pursuant to this regulation , which can adversely affect the rights of that person . the right includes , in particular in the context of this regulation , the possibility for users to contest the removal of content resulting from measures taken by the hosting service provider as foreseen in this regulation and to be informed of effective means of remedies . it also includes the right for hosting service providers and content providers to effectively contest the removal orders , imposed proactive measures or penalties , before the court of the member state whose authorities issued the removal order , imposed proactive measures or penalties , or the court where the hosting service provider is established or represented .


### in order to provide clarity about the actions that both hosting service providers and competent authorities should take to prevent the dissemination of terrorist content online , this regulation should establish a definition of terrorist content for preventative purposes drawing on the definition of terrorist offences under directive 2017 / 541 of the european parliament and of the council9 . given the need to address the most harmful terrorist propaganda online , the definition should capture material and information that incites , encourages or advocates the commission or contribution to terrorist offences , provides instructions for the commission of such offences or promotes the participation in activities of a terrorist group . such information includes in particular text , images , sound recordings and videos . when assessing whether content constitutes terrorist content within the meaning of this regulation , competent authorities as well as hosting service providers should take into account factors such as the nature and wording of the statements , the context in which the statements were made and their potential to lead to harmful consequences , thereby affecting the security and safety of persons . the fact that the material was produced by , is attributable to or disseminated on behalf of an eu - listed terrorist organisation or person constitutes an important factor in the assessment . content disseminated for educational , journalistic or research purposes should be adequately protected . furthermore , the expression of radical , polemic or controversial views in the public debate on sensitive political questions should not be considered terrorist content . _________________ 9 directive 2017 / 541 of the european parliament and of the council of 15 march 2017 on combating terrorism and replacing council framework decision 2002 / 475 / jha and amending council decision 2005 / 671 / jha . ### in order to provide clarity about the actions that both hosting service providers and the competent authority should take to prevent the dissemination of terrorist content online , this regulation should establish a definition of terrorist content for preventative purposes drawing on the definition of terrorist offences under directive 2017 / 541 of the european parliament and of the council9 . given the need to address the most harmful terrorist propaganda online , the definition should capture material and information that incites , encourages or advocates the commission or contribution to terrorist offences , provides instructions for the commission of such offences or promotes the participation in activities of a terrorist group . such information includes in particular text , images , sound recordings and videos . when assessing whether content constitutes terrorist content within the meaning of this regulation , competent authorities as well as hosting service providers should take into account factors such as the nature and wording of the statements , the context in which the statements were made and their potential to lead to harmful consequences , thereby affecting the security and safety of persons . the fact that the material was produced by , is attributable to or disseminated on behalf of an eu - listed terrorist organisation or person constitutes an important factor in the assessment . content disseminated for educational , journalistic or research purposes should be adequately protected . furthermore , the expression of radical , polemic or controversial views in the public debate on sensitive political questions should not be considered terrorist content . the right to such expression can be invoked before the court of the member state where the hosting service provider has its main establishment or where the legal representative designated by the hosting service provider pursuant to this regulation resides or is established . _________________ 9 directive 2017 / 541 of the european parliament and of the council of 15 march 2017 on combating terrorism and replacing council framework decision 2002 / 475 / jha and amending council decision 2005 / 671 / jha .


### in order to cover those online hosting services where terrorist content is disseminated , this regulation should apply to information society services which store information provided by a recipient of the service at his or her request and in making the information stored available to third parties , irrespective of whether this activity is of a mere technical , automatic and passive nature . by way of example such providers of information society services include social media platforms , video streaming services , video , image and audio sharing services , file sharing and other cloud services to the extent they make the information available to third parties and websites where users can make comments or post reviews . the regulation should also apply to hosting service providers established outside the union but offering services within the union , since a significant proportion of hosting service providers exposed to terrorist content on their services are established in third countries . this should ensure that all companies operating in the digital single market comply with the same requirements , irrespective of their country of establishment . the determination as to whether a service provider offers services in the union requires an assessment whether the service provider enables legal or natural persons in one or more member states to use its services . however , the mere accessibility of a service provider’s website or of an email address and of other contact details in one or more member states taken in isolation should not be a sufficient condition for the application of this regulation . ### in order to cover those online hosting services where terrorist content is disseminated , this regulation should apply to information society services which store information provided by a recipient of the service at his or her request and in making the information stored directly available to the public . by way of example such providers of information society services include social media platforms , video streaming services , video , image and audio sharing services , file sharing and other cloud services , excluding cloud it infrastructure service providers , to the extent they make the information directly available to the public . the regulation should also apply to hosting service providers established outside the union but offering services within the union , since a significant proportion of hosting service providers exposed to terrorist content on their services are established in third countries . this should ensure that all companies operating in the digital single market comply with the same requirements , irrespective of their country of establishment . the determination as to whether a service provider offers services in the union requires an assessment whether the service provider enables legal or natural persons in one or more member states to use its services . however , the mere accessibility of a service provider’s website or of an email address and of other contact details in one or more member states taken in isolation should not be a sufficient condition for the application of this regulation .


### the competent authority should transmit the removal order directly to the addressee and point of contact by any electronic means capable of producing a written record under conditions that allow the service provider to establish authenticity , including the accuracy of the date and the time of sending and receipt of the order , such as by secured email and platforms or other secured channels , including those made available by the service provider , in line with the rules protecting personal data . this requirement may notably be met by the use of qualified electronic registered delivery services as provided for by regulation 910 / 2014 of the european parliament and of the council12 . _________________ 12 regulation no 910 / 2014 of the european parliament and of the council of 23 july 2014 on electronic identification and trust services for electronic transactions in the internal market and repealing directive 1999 / 93 / ec . ### the competent authority should transmit the removal order directly to the addressee and point of contact by any electronic means capable of producing a written record under conditions that establish the authenticity of the order without unreasonable financial or other burden on the service provider , including the accuracy of the date and the time of sending and receipt of the order , such as by secured email and platforms or other secured channels , including those made available by the service provider , in line with the rules protecting personal data . this requirement may notably be met by the use of qualified electronic registered delivery services as provided for by regulation 910 / 2014 of the european parliament and of the council12 . _________________ 12 regulation no 910 / 2014 of the european parliament and of the council of 23 july 2014 on electronic identification and trust services for electronic transactions in the internal market and repealing directive 1999 / 93 / ec .


### in order to ensure that hosting service providers exposed to terrorist content take appropriate measures to prevent the misuse of their services , the competent authorities should request hosting service providers having received a removal order , which has become final , to report on the proactive measures taken . these could consist of measures to prevent the re - upload of terrorist content , removed or access to it disabled as a result of a removal order or referrals they received , checking against publicly or privately - held tools containing known terrorist content . they may also employ the use of reliable technical tools to identify new terrorist content , either using those available on the market or those developed by the hosting service provider . the service provider should report on the specific proactive measures in place in order to allow the competent authority to judge whether the measures are effective and proportionate and whether , if automated means are used , the hosting service provider has the necessary abilities for human oversight and verification . in assessing the effectiveness and proportionality of the measures , competent authorities should take into account relevant parameters including the number of removal orders and referrals issued to the provider , their economic capacity and the impact of its service in disseminating terrorist content . ### in order to ensure that hosting service providers exposed to terrorist content take appropriate measures to prevent the misuse of their services , the competent authorities should request hosting service providers having received a removal order , which has become final , to report on the proactive measures taken . these could consist of measures to prevent the re - upload of terrorist content , removed or access to it disabled as a result of a removal order or referrals they received , checking against publicly or privately - held tools containing known terrorist content . they may also employ the use of reliable technical tools to identify new terrorist content , either using those available on the market or those developed by the hosting service provider . the service provider should report on the specific proactive measures in place in order to allow the competent authority to judge whether the measures are necessary , effective and proportionate and whether , if automated means are used , the hosting service provider has the necessary abilities for human oversight and verification . in assessing the effectiveness , necessity and proportionality of the measures , competent authorities should take into account relevant parameters including the number of removal orders and referrals issued to the provider , their economic capacity and the impact of its service in disseminating terrorist content , as well as the safeguards put in place to protect freedom of expression and information and the number of incidents of restrictions on legal content .


### following the request , the competent authority should enter into a dialogue with the hosting service provider about the necessary proactive measures to be put in place . if necessary , the competent authority should impose the adoption of appropriate , effective and proportionate proactive measures where it considers that the measures taken are insufficient to meet the risks . a decision to impose such specific proactive measures should not , in principle , lead to the imposition of a general obligation to monitor , as provided in article 15 of directive 2000 / 31 / ec . considering the particularly grave risks associated with the dissemination of terrorist content , the decisions adopted by the competent authorities on the basis of this regulation could derogate from the approach established in article 15 of directive 2000 / 31 / ec , as regards certain specific , targeted measures , the adoption of which is necessary for overriding public security reasons . before adopting such decisions , the competent authority should strike a fair balance between the public interest objectives and the fundamental rights involved , in particular , the freedom of expression and information and the freedom to conduct a business , and provide appropriate justification . ### following the request , the competent authority should enter into a dialogue with the hosting service provider about the necessary proactive measures to be put in place . if necessary , the competent authority should impose the adoption of appropriate , effective and proportionate proactive measures where it considers that the measures taken are insufficient to meet the risks . the competent authority should only impose proactive measures that the hosting service provider can reasonably be expected to implement , taking into account , among other factors , the hosting service provider ' s financial and other resources . a decision to impose such specific proactive measures should not lead to the imposition of a general obligation to monitor , as provided in article 15 of directive 2000 / 31 / ec . considering the particularly grave risks associated with the dissemination of terrorist content , the decisions adopted by the competent authorities on the basis of this regulation could , in exceptional circumstances , derogate from the approach established in article 15 of directive 2000 / 31 / ec , as regards certain specific , targeted measures , the adoption of which is necessary for overriding public security reasons . before adopting such decisions , the competent authority should strike a fair balance between the public interest objectives and the fundamental rights involved , in particular , the freedom of expression and information and the freedom to conduct a business , and provide appropriate justification .


### transparency of hosting service providers ' policies in relation to terrorist content is essential to enhance their accountability towards their users and to reinforce trust of citizens in the digital single market . hosting service providers should publish annual transparency reports containing meaningful information about action taken in relation to the detection , identification and removal of terrorist content . ### transparency of hosting service providers ' policies in relation to terrorist content is essential to enhance their accountability towards their users and to reinforce trust of citizens in the digital single market . hosting service providers should publish annual transparency reports containing meaningful information about action taken in relation to the detection , identification and removal of terrorist content , as well as the number of restrictions on legal content . competent authorities should also publish annual transparency reports containing meaningful information on the number of legal orders issued , the number of removals , the number of identified and detected terrorist content removed and the number of restrictions on legal content .


### complaint procedures constitute a necessary safeguard against erroneous removal of content protected under the freedom of expression and information . hosting service providers should therefore establish user - friendly complaint mechanisms and ensure that complaints are dealt with promptly and in full transparency towards the content provider . the requirement for the hosting service provider to reinstate the content where it has been removed in error , does not affect the possibility of hosting service providers to enforce their own terms and conditions on other grounds . ### complaint procedures constitute a necessary safeguard against erroneous removal of content protected under the freedom of expression and information . hosting service providers should therefore establish user - friendly complaint mechanisms and ensure that complaints are dealt with promptly and in full transparency towards the content provider , and this should include information on all effective remedy options , including judicial redress routes . the requirement for the hosting service provider to reinstate the content where it has been removed in error , does not affect the possibility of hosting service providers to enforce their own terms and conditions on other grounds .


### the use of standardised templates facilitates cooperation and the exchange of information between competent authorities and service providers , allowing them to communicate more quickly and effectively . it is particularly important to ensure swift action following the receipt of a removal order . templates reduce translation costs and contribute to a high quality standard . response forms similarly should allow for a standardised exchange of information , and this will be particularly important where service providers are unable to comply . authenticated submission channels can guarantee the authenticity of the removal order , including the accuracy of the date and the time of sending and receipt of the order . ### the use of standardised templates facilitates cooperation and the exchange of information between competent authorities and service providers , allowing them to communicate more quickly and effectively . it is particularly important to ensure swift action following the receipt of a removal order , depending on the size and means of the hosting service provider . templates reduce translation costs and contribute to a high quality standard . response forms similarly should allow for a standardised exchange of information , and this will be particularly important where service providers are unable to comply . authenticated submission channels can guarantee the authenticity of the removal order , including the accuracy of the date and the time of sending and receipt of the order .


### this regulation lays down uniform rules to prevent the misuse of hosting services for the dissemination of terrorist content online . it lays down in particular : ### this regulation lays down uniform rules to prevent and address&#160 ; the misuse of hosting services for the dissemination of terrorist content online . it lays down in particular :


### a set of measures to be put in place by member states to identify terrorist content , to enable its swift removal by hosting service providers and to facilitate cooperation with the competent authorities in other member states , hosting service providers and where appropriate relevant union bodies . ### a set of measures to be put in place by member states to identify terrorist content , to enable its swift removal by hosting service providers in accordance with union law providing suitable safeguards for freedom of expression and information and to facilitate cooperation with the competent authorities in other member states , hosting service providers and where appropriate relevant union bodies .


### hosting service providers shall take appropriate , reasonable and proportionate actions in accordance with this regulation , against the dissemination of terrorist content and to protect users from terrorist content . in doing so , they shall act in a diligent , proportionate and non - discriminatory manner , and with due regard to the fundamental rights of the users and take into account the fundamental importance of the freedom of expression and information in an open and democratic society . ### hosting service providers shall take appropriate , reasonable and proportionate actions in accordance with this regulation , against the dissemination of terrorist content and to protect users from terrorist content . in doing so , they shall act in a diligent , proportionate and non - discriminatory manner , and with due regard in all circumstances&#160 ; to the fundamental rights of the users and take into account the fundamental importance of the freedom of expression and information in an open and democratic society . in particular those actions shall not amount to general monitoring . &#160 ;


### where relevant , the decision not to disclose information about the removal of terrorist content or the disabling of access to it referred to in article 11 . ### where necessary and appropriate , the decision not to disclose information about the removal of terrorist content or the disabling of access to it referred to in article 11 .


### hosting service providers shall , where appropriate , take proactive measures to protect their services against the dissemination of terrorist content . the measures shall be effective and proportionate , taking into account the risk and level of exposure to terrorist content , the fundamental rights of the users , and the fundamental importance of the freedom of expression and information in an open and democratic society . ### hosting service providers may , where appropriate , in particular where there is a non - incidental level of exposure to terrorist content and receipt of removal orders , take proactive measures to protect their services against the dissemination of terrorist content . the measures shall be effective , targeted and proportionate to the risk and level of exposure to terrorist content , paying particular regard to the fundamental rights of the users , and the fundamental importance of the freedom of expression and information in an open and democratic society


### overview and outcome of complaint procedures . ### overview and outcome of complaint procedures , including the number of cases in which it was established that content was wrongly identified as terrorist content .


### hosting service providers shall promptly examine every complaint that they receive and reinstate the content without undue delay where the removal or disabling of access was unjustified . they shall inform the complainant about the outcome of the examination . ### hosting service providers shall promptly examine every complaint that they receive and reinstate the content without undue delay where the removal or disabling of access was unjustified . they shall inform the complainant about the outcome of the examination within two weeks from the receipt of the complaint .


### upon request of the content provider , the hosting service provider shall inform the content provider about the reasons for the removal or disabling of access and possibilities to contest the decision . ### upon request of the content provider , the hosting service provider shall inform the content provider about the reasons for the removal or disabling of access , including the legal basis for this action , and possibilities to contest the decision .


### no sooner than [ three years from the date of application of this regulation ] , the commission shall carry out an evaluation of this regulation and submit a report to the european parliament and to the council on the application of this regulation including the functioning of the effectiveness of the safeguard mechanisms . where appropriate , the report shall be accompanied by legislative proposals . member states shall provide the commission with the information necessary for the preparation of the report . ### no sooner than [ three years from the date of application of this regulation ] , the commission shall carry out an evaluation of this regulation and submit a report to the european parliament and to the council on the application of this regulation including the functioning of the effectiveness of the safeguard mechanisms . the report shall also cover the impact of this regulation on freedom of expression and information . where appropriate , the report shall be accompanied by legislative proposals . member states shall provide the commission with the information necessary for the preparation of the report .


### in addition , experience has shown that in order to facilitate the application of the rules provided for in those directives a number of the provisions require more precise wording and consistent terminology . in the interests of clarity and consistency of union legislation , it is also appropriate to provide for more definitions . ### in addition , experience has shown that in order to facilitate the application of the rules provided for in those directives a number of the provisions require more precise wording and consistent terminology . in the interests of clarity and consistency of union legislation , it is also appropriate to provide for more definitions , including for reasons of consistency and clarity a definition of ‘ breed’ .


### performance testing and genetic evaluation may be carried out by institutions designated by the breed society or the breeding operation . those designated institutions shall cooperate with the european union reference centres designated by the commission . the commission should therefore be empowered to designate by way of implementing acts european union reference centres and the necessary powers should be granted to the commission to adopt delegated acts describing their duties and functions , where necessary by amending annex iv . those reference centres qualify for union aid in accordance with council decision 2009 / 470 / ec of 25 may 2009 on expenditure in the veterinary field15 . in the case of purebred breeding animals of the bovine species , performance testing and genetic evaluation carried out by a breed society are at present assisted by the interbull centre , the european union reference body designated by council decision 96 / 463 / ec of 23 july 1996 designating the reference body responsible for collaborating in rendering uniform the testing methods and the assessment of the results for purebred breeding animals of the bovine species16 . ___________ 15 oj l 155 , 18 . 6 . 2009 , p . 30 . 16 oj l 192 , 2 . 8 . 1996 , p . 19 . ### performance testing and genetic evaluation may be carried out by institutions designated by the breed society or the breeding operation . those designated institutions shall cooperate with the european union reference centres designated by the commission . the commission should therefore be empowered to designate by way of implementing acts european union reference centres and the necessary powers should be granted to the commission to adopt delegated acts describing their tasks , where necessary by amending annex iv . those reference centres qualify for union aid in accordance with council decision 2009 / 470 / ec of 25 may 2009 on expenditure in the veterinary field15 . in the case of purebred breeding animals of the bovine species , performance testing and genetic evaluation carried out by a breed society are at present assisted by the interbull centre , the european union reference body designated by council decision 96 / 463 / ec of 23 july 1996 designating the reference body responsible for collaborating in rendering uniform the testing methods and the assessment of the results for purebred breeding animals of the bovine species16 . ___________ 15 oj l 155 , 18 . 6 . 2009 , p . 30 . 16 oj l 192 , 2 . 8 . 1996 , p . 19 .


### the commission should carry out controls in member states as appropriate and in particular in the light of the results of the official controls carried out by member states to ensure the application of the zootechnical and genealogical rules laid down in this regulation in all member states . ### the commission should carry out risk - based controls in member states and in particular in the light of the results of the official controls carried out by member states to ensure the application of the zootechnical and genealogical rules laid down in this regulation in all member states .


### the competent authority referred to in article 4 may authorise breed societies and breeding operations to outsource the technical management of their breeding book or breed register and other specific aspects of their breeding programme to a third party , provided that : ### breed societies and breeding operations may outsource the technical management of their breeding book or breed register and other specific aspects of their breeding programme to third parties , provided that :


### collection of semen from breeding animals which have undergone , where applicable , performance testing and genetic evaluation in accordance with article 27 or set out in the delegated act adopted pursuant to article 28 ; ### collection of semen from breeding animals which have undergone , where required by the breeding programme , performance testing and genetic evaluation ;


### performance testing shall follow the rules and standards established by the relevant european union reference centre provided for in article 31 in cooperation with the international committee for animal recording . ### performance testing shall follow the rules and standards established by the relevant european union reference centre in cooperation with the international committee for animal recording .


### where genomic breeding values are calculated , those values shall be validated for the traits concerned according to the rules and standards established by the relevant european union reference centre provided for in article 31 in cooperation with icar . ### where genomic breeding values are calculated , those values shall be validated for the traits concerned according to the rules and standards established by the relevant european union reference centre in cooperation with icar .


### the genetic merit of the breeding animal shall be calculated by assessing the qualities of a suitable number of progeny or collaterals in relation to production characteristics : ### the genetic merit of the breeding animal shall be calculated by assessing the qualities of a suitable number of progeny or collaterals or the breeding animal ' s ancestry in relation to production characteristics :


### staff been instructed to respect the confidential nature of certain subjects , results or communications ; ### procedures in place to ensure that the confidential nature of certain subjects , results or communications is maintained ;


### ' local wireless access point ' means a low power equipment of small size operating within a small range , using on a non - exclusive basis radio spectrum for which the conditions of availability and efficient use for this purpose are harmonised at union level , and which allows wireless access by users to an electronic communications network . ### ' local wireless access point ' means a low power equipment of small size operating within a small range , using on a non - exclusive basis radio spectrum for which the conditions of availability and efficient use for this purpose are harmonised at union level , and which allows free local wireless access by users to an electronic communications network .


### projects duplicating already existing private or public offers of similar characteristics , including quality , in the same area shall not be covered . ### projects duplicating or overlapping already existing private or public offers of similar characteristics , including quality , in the same area shall not be covered . the local wireless access points funded under this regulation shall cover primarily public spaces .