### lays down a framework for the establishment of european cybersecurity certification schemes for the purpose of ensuring an adequate level of cybersecurity of ict products and services in the union . such framework shall apply without prejudice to specific provisions regarding voluntary or mandatory certification in other union acts . ### lays down a framework for the establishment of european cybersecurity certification schemes for the purpose of ensuring an adequate level of cybersecurity of ict products and services in the union . such framework shall apply without prejudice to specific provisions regarding voluntary or mandatory certification in other union acts ; and


### the agency shall promote the use of certification , including by contributing to the establishment and maintenance of a cybersecurity certification framework at union level in accordance with title iii of this regulation , with a view to increasing transparency of cybersecurity assurance of ict products and services and thus strengthen trust in the digital internal market . ### the agency shall promote the use of certification , including by contributing to the establishment and maintenance of a cybersecurity certification framework at union level in accordance with title iii of this regulation , with a view to increasing transparency of cybersecurity assurance of ict products and services and thus strengthen trust in the digital internal market , and without disregard for the specific sensibilities related to small and medium sized enterprises .


### compiling and publishing guidelines and developing good practices concerning the cybersecurity requirements of ict products and services , in cooperation with national certification supervisory authorities and the industry ; ### assisting small and medium sized enterprises by compiling and publishing guidelines and developing good practices concerning the cybersecurity requirements of ict products and services , in cooperation with national certification supervisory authorities and the industry ;


### member states may require qualified entities to provide sufficient information to support a representative action for redress , including a description of the group of consumers concerned by an infringement and the questions of fact and law to be resolved within the representative action . the qualified entity should not be required to individually identify all consumers concerned by an infringement in order to initiate the action . in representative actions for redress the court or administrative authority should verify at the earliest possible stage of the proceedings whether the case is suitable for being brought as a representative action , given the nature of the infringement and characteristics of the damages suffered by consumers concerned . ### member states may require qualified entities to provide sufficient information to support a representative action for redress , including a description of the group of consumers concerned by an infringement and the questions of fact and law to be resolved within the representative action . the qualified entity should be required to individually identify all consumers concerned by an infringement , and to obtain their prior consent to be involved in the representative action , in order to initiate the action . in representative actions for redress the court or administrative authority should verify at the earliest possible stage of the proceedings whether the case is suitable for being brought as a representative action , given the nature of the infringement and characteristics of the damages suffered by consumers concerned .


### where consumers concerned by the same practice are identifiable and they suffered comparable harm in relation to a period of time or a purchase , such as in the case of long - term consumer contracts , the court or administrative authority may clearly define the group of consumers concerned by the infringement in the course of the representative action . in particular , the court or administrative authority could ask the infringing trader to provide relevant information , such as the identity of the consumers concerned and the duration of the practice . for expediency and efficiency reasons , in these cases member states in accordance with their national laws could consider to provide consumers with the possibility to directly benefit from a redress order after it was issued without being required to give their individual mandate before the redress order is issued . ### where consumers concerned by the same practice are identifiable and they suffered comparable harm in relation to a period of time or a purchase , such as in the case of long - term consumer contracts , the court or administrative authority may clearly define the group of consumers concerned by the infringement in the course of the representative action . in particular , the court or administrative authority could ask the infringing trader to provide relevant information , such as the identity of the consumers concerned and the duration of the practice . for expediency and efficiency reasons , in these cases member states in accordance with their national laws could consider providing consumers with the possibility of directly benefiting from a redress order after it was issued , requiring them to give their individual mandate before the redress order is issued .


### in low - value cases most consumers are unlikely to take action in order to enforce their rights because the efforts would outweigh the individual benefits . however , if the same practice concerns a number of consumers , the aggregated loss may be significant . in such cases , a court or authority may consider that it is disproportionate to distribute the funds back to the consumers concerned , for example because it is too onerous or impracticable . therefore the funds received as redress through representative actions would better serve the purposes of the protection of collective interests of consumers and should be directed to a relevant public purpose , such as a consumer legal aid fund , awareness campaigns or consumer movements . ### in low - value cases most consumers are unlikely to take action in order to enforce their rights because the efforts would outweigh the individual benefits . however , if the same practice concerns a number of consumers , the aggregated loss may be significant . in such cases , a court or authority may consider that it is disproportionate to distribute the funds back to the consumers concerned , for example because it is too onerous or impracticable . therefore the funds received as redress through representative actions would better serve the purposes of the protection of collective interests of consumers and should be directed to a relevant public purpose , such as consumer awareness campaigns .


### ensuring that consumers are informed about a representative action is crucial for its success . consumers should be informed of ongoing representative action , the fact that a trader ' s practice has been considered as a breach of law , their rights following the establishment of an infringement and any subsequent steps to be taken by consumers concerned , particularly for obtaining redress . the reputational risks associated with spreading information about the infringement are also important for deterring traders infringing consumer rights . ### ensuring that consumers are informed about a representative action is crucial for its success . consumers should be informed of ongoing representative action , the fact that a trader ' s practice has been considered as a breach of law , their rights following the establishment of an infringement and any subsequent steps to be taken by consumers concerned , particularly for obtaining redress . the reputational risks associated with spreading information about the infringement are also important for deterring traders deliberately infringing consumer rights .


### this directive shall apply to representative actions brought against infringements by traders of provisions of the union law listed in annex i that harm or may harm the collective interests of consumers . it shall apply to domestic and cross - border infringements , including where those infringements have ceased before the representative action has started or before the representative action has been concluded . ### this directive shall apply to representative actions brought against suspectedinfringements by traders of provisions of the union law listed in annex i that harm or may harm the collective interests of consumers . it shall apply to domestic and cross - border infringements , including where those infringements have ceased before the representative action has started or before the representative action has been concluded .


### the qualified entity shall provide sufficient information as required under national law to support the action , including a description of the consumers concerned by the action and the questions of fact and law to be resolved . ### the qualified entity must provide sufficient information as required under national law to support the action , including a description of the consumers concerned by the action and the questions of fact and law to be resolved .


### the qualified entity seeking a redress order as referred in article 6 shall declare at an early stage of the action the source of the funds used for its activity in general and the funds that it uses to support the action . it shall demonstrate that it has sufficient financial resources to represent the best interests of the consumers concerned and to meet any adverse costs should the action fail . ### the qualified entity seeking a redress order as referred in article 6 shall declare at an early stage of the action the source of the funds used for its activity in general and the funds that it uses to support the action throughout the whole procedure . it shall demonstrate in a transparent way that it has sufficient financial resources to represent the best interests of the consumers concerned and to meet any adverse costs should the action fail .


### member states shall take the necessary measures to ensure that procedural costs related to representative actions do not constitute financial obstacles for qualified entities to effectively exercise the right to seek the measures referred to in articles 5 and 6 , such as limiting applicable court or administrative fees , granting them access to legal aid where necessary , or by providing them with public funding for this purpose . ### member states shall take the necessary measures to ensure that procedural costs related to representative actions do not constitute financial obstacles for qualified entities to effectively exercise the right to seek the measures referred to in articles 5 and 6 , such as limiting applicable court or administrative fees , granting them access to legal aid where necessary .


### a pre - condition for granting the union’s macro - financial assistance should be that georgia respects effective democratic mechanisms – including a multi - party parliamentary system – and the rule of law , and guarantees respect for human rights . in addition , the specific objectives of the union’s macro - financial assistance should strengthen the efficiency , transparency and accountability of the public finance management systems in georgia , and promote structural reforms aimed at supporting sustainable and inclusive growth , employment creation and fiscal consolidation . both the fulfilment of the preconditions and the achievement of those objectives should be regularly monitored by the commission and the european external action service . ### the granting of eu macro - financial assistance cannot be made conditional on georgia giving up aspects of its sovereignty ; given that georgia is a sovereign state which is not an eu member state , the union cannot and must not meddle in georgia’s internal affairs ;


### it is the union ' s objective to strengthen its scientific and technological bases and encourage its competitiveness , including in its industry , while promoting all research and innovation activities to deliver on the union ' s strategic priorities , which ultimately aim at promoting peace , the union ' s values and the well - being of its peoples . ### it is the union ' s objective to strengthen its scientific and technological bases and encourage its competitiveness , including in its industry , while promoting all research and innovation activities to deliver on the union ' s strategic priorities , which ultimately aim at promoting peace , the union ' s values and the well - being of its peoples - well - being that is not always compatible with the declared imperative of making european industry ever more competitive , with the open - ended aim laid down in article 39 of the tfeu of increasing agricultural productivity , with the union policy of unrestricted free movement of capital between the eu and the rest of the world under article 63 of the tfeu , or with the european central bank ' s monetary policy .


### to deliver scientific , economic and societal impact in pursuit of this general objective , the union should invest in research and innovation through horizon europe - a framework programme for research and innovation 2021 - 2027 to support the creation and diffusion of high - quality knowledge and technologies , to strengthen the impact of research and innovation in developing , supporting and implementing union policies , to support the uptake of innovative solutions in industry and society to address global challenges and promote industrial competitiveness ; to foster all forms of innovation , including breakthrough innovation , and strengthen market deployment of innovative solutions ; and optimise the delivery of such investment for increased impact within a strengthened european research area . ### to deliver scientific , social , economic and societal impact in pursuit of this general objective , the union should invest in research and innovation through horizon europe - a framework programme for research and innovation 2021 - 2027 to support the creation and diffusion of high - quality knowledge and technologies , to strengthen the impact of research and innovation in developing , supporting and implementing union policies , to support the uptake of innovative solutions in industry and society to address global challenges and promote industrial competitiveness ; to foster all forms of innovation , including breakthrough innovation , and strengthen market deployment of innovative solutions ; and optimise the delivery of such investment for increased impact within a strengthened european research area .


### with the aim of deepening the relationship between science and society and maximising benefits of their interactions , the programme should engage and involve citizens and civil society organisations in co - designing and co - creating responsible research and innovation agendas and contents , promoting science education , making scientific knowledge publicly accessible , and facilitating participation by citizens and civil society organisations in its activities . it should do so across the programme and through dedicated activities in the part ' strengthening the european research area ' . the engagement of citizens and civil society in research and innovation should be coupled with public outreach activities to generate and sustain public support for the programme . the programme should also seek to remove barriers and boost synergies between science , technology , culture and the arts to obtain a new quality of sustainable innovation . ### with the aim of deepening the relationship between science and society and maximising benefits of their interactions , the programme should engage and involve citizens and civil society organisations in co - designing , jointly assessing and co - creating responsible research and innovation agendas and contents , promoting science education , making scientific knowledge publicly accessible , and facilitating participation by citizens and civil society organisations in its activities . it should do so across the programme and through dedicated activities in the part ' strengthening the european research area ' . the engagement of citizens and civil society in research and innovation should be coupled with public outreach activities to generate and sustain public support for the programme . the programme should also seek to remove barriers and boost synergies between science , technology , culture and the arts to obtain a new quality of sustainable innovation .


### ensuring transparency in the general terms and conditions can be essential to promoting sustainable business relationships and to preventing unfair behaviour to the detriment of business users . providers of online intermediation services should therefore also ensure that the terms and conditions are easily available at all stages of the contractual relationship , including to prospective business users at the pre - contractual phase , and that any modifications to those terms are notified to business users within a set notice period which is reasonable and proportionate in light of the specific circumstances and which is at least 15 days . that notice period should not apply where , and to the extent that , it is waived in an unambiguous manner by the business user concerned or where , and to the extent that , the need to implement the modification without respecting the notice period stems from a legal obligation incumbent on the service provider under union or national law . ### ensuring transparency in the general terms and conditions can be essential to promoting sustainable business relationships and to preventing unfair behaviour to the detriment of business users . what is more , these terms and conditions should be objective , non - discriminatory , fair and reasonable . providers of online intermediation services should therefore also ensure that the terms and conditions are easily available at all stages of the contractual relationship , including to prospective business users at the pre - contractual phase , and that any modifications to those terms are notified to business users within a set notice period which is reasonable and proportionate in light of the specific circumstances and which is at least 15 days . that notice period should not apply where , and to the extent that , it is waived in an unambiguous manner by the business user concerned or where , and to the extent that , the need to implement the modification without respecting the notice period stems from a legal obligation incumbent on the service provider under union or national law .


### in order to protect business users it should be possible for a competent court to establish that non - compliant terms and conditions are not binding on the business user concerned , with effects ex nunc . any such finding by a court should however only concern the specific provisions of the terms and conditions which are not compliant . the remaining provisions should remain valid and enforceable , in as far as they can be severed from the non - compliant provisions . sudden modifications to existing terms and conditions may significantly disrupt business users’ operations . in order to limit such negative effects on business users , and to discourage such behaviour , modifications made in contravention of the obligation to provide a set notice period , should therefore be null and void , that is , deemed to have never existed with effects erga omnes and ex tunc . ### in order to protect business users , non - compliant terms and conditions should be considered null and void . any such measure should however only concern the specific provisions of the terms and conditions which are not compliant . the remaining provisions should remain valid and enforceable , in as far as they can be severed from the non - compliant provisions . sudden modifications to existing terms and conditions may significantly disrupt business users’ operations . in order to limit such negative effects on business users , and to discourage such behaviour , modifications made in contravention of the obligation to provide a set notice period , should therefore be null and void , that is , deemed to have never existed with effects erga omnes and ex tunc .


### the ranking of goods and services by the providers of online intermediation services has an important impact on consumer choice and , consequently , on the commercial success of the business users offering those goods and services to consumers . providers of online intermediation services should therefore outline the main parameters determining ranking beforehand , in order to improve predictability for business users , to allow them to better understand the functioning of the ranking mechanism and to enable them to compare the ranking practices of various providers . the notion of main parameter should be understood to refer to any general criteria , processes , specific signals incorporated into algorithms or other adjustment or demotion mechanisms used in connection with the ranking . the description of the main parameters determining ranking should also include an explanation of any possibility for business users to actively influence ranking against remuneration , as well as of the relative effects thereof . this description should provide business users with an adequate understanding of how the ranking mechanism takes account of the characteristics of the actual goods or services offered by the business user , and their relevance to the consumers of the specific online intermediation services . ### the ranking of goods and services by the providers of online intermediation services has an important impact on consumer choice and , consequently , on the commercial success of the business users offering those goods and services to consumers . providers of online intermediation services should therefore clearly and precisely outline the main parameters determining ranking beforehand , in order to improve predictability for business users , to allow them to better understand the functioning of the ranking mechanism and to enable them to compare the ranking practices of various providers . the notion of main parameter should be understood to refer to any general criteria , processes , specific signals incorporated into algorithms or other adjustment or demotion mechanisms used in connection with the ranking . the description of the main parameters determining ranking should also include an explanation of any possibility for business users to actively influence ranking against remuneration , as well as of the relative effects thereof . this description should provide business users with an adequate understanding of how the ranking mechanism takes account of the characteristics of the actual goods or services offered by the business user , and their relevance to the consumers of the specific online intermediation services . online intermediation service providers should also provide consumers with a description of the parameters that affect ranking . the parameters should be objective and non - discriminatory and should be applied in a consistent and non - discriminatory way .


### as the objective of this regulation , namely to ensure a fair , predictable , sustainable and trusted online business environment within the internal market , cannot be sufficiently achieved by the member states , but can rather , by reason of its scale and effects , be better achieved at union level , the union may adopt measures , in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity as set out in article 5 of the treaty on european union . in accordance with the principle of proportionality , as set out in that article , this regulation does not go beyond what is necessary in order to achieve that objective . ### in accordance with the principle of proportionality , as set out in article 5 of the treaty on european union , this regulation does not go beyond what is necessary to achieve that objective .


### this regulation lays down rules to ensure that business users of online intermediation services and corporate website users in relation to online search engines are granted appropriate transparency and effective redress possibilities . ### this regulation lays down rules to ensure that business users of online intermediation services and corporate website users in relation to online search engines are granted appropriate transparency and fair and effective redress possibilities . this regulation shall be without prejudice to national civil law , particularly contract law and national legislation prohibiting or penalising unilateral behaviour or unfair commercial practices .


### a european labour authority should be established in order to help strengthen fairness and trust in the single market . to that effect , the authority should support the member states and the commission in strengthening access to information for individuals and employers about their rights and obligations in cross - border labour mobility situations as well as access to relevant services , support compliance and cooperation between the member states to ensure the effective application of the union law in these areas , and mediate and facilitate a solution in case of cross - border disputes or labour market disruptions . ### a european labour authority should be established in order to help eliminate the inequalities in the internal market with regard to the free movement of workers and of services . to that effect , the authority should support cooperation between the member states to ensure the effective application of union law in cross - border labour mobility situations and facilitate a solution in case of cross - border disputes between competent national authorities .


### the authority should directly rely on the expertise of relevant stakeholders in the areas under its scope through a dedicated stakeholder group . the members should be representatives of union - level social partners . in carrying out its activities , the stakeholder group will take due account of the opinions and draw on the expertise of the advisory committee for the coordination of social security systems established by regulation no 883 / 2004 and the advisory committee on the free movement of workers established pursuant to regulation no 492 / 2011 . ### the authority should directly rely on the expertise of relevant stakeholders in the areas under its scope through a dedicated stakeholder group . the members should be representatives of the social partners of each member state . in carrying out its activities , the stakeholder group will take due account of the opinions and draw on the expertise of the advisory committee on the free movement of workers established pursuant to regulation no 492 / 2011 .


### within the framework of their respective competences , the authority should cooperate with other agencies of the union , in particular those established in the area of employment and social policy , building on their expertise and maximising synergies : the european foundation for the improvement of living and working conditions , the european centre for the development of vocational training , the european agency for safety and health at work , and the european training foundation , as well as , as regards the fight against organised crime and trafficking in human beings , with the european union agency for law enforcement cooperation and european union agency for criminal justice cooperation . ### within the framework of their respective competences and in order to avoid any overlapping , the authority should cooperate as closely as possible with other agencies of the union , in particular those established in the area of employment and social policy , building on their expertise and maximising synergies : the european foundation for the improvement of living and working conditions , the european centre for the development of vocational training , the european agency for safety and health at work , and the european training foundation , as well as , as regards the fight against organised crime and trafficking in human beings , with the european union agency for law enforcement cooperation and european union agency for criminal justice cooperation .


### the objective of the authority shall be to contribute to ensuring fair labour mobility in the internal market . to that end , the authority shall : ### the objective of the authority shall be to contribute to ensuring that labour mobility in the internal market does not involve any unfair competition or social and wage dumping between member states . to that end , the authority shall :


### in the event that the authority , in the course of concerted or joint inspections , or in the course of any of its activities , becomes aware of suspected irregularities in the application of union law , including beyond the scope of its competences , it shall report those suspected irregularities to the commission and authorities in the member state concerned , where appropriate . ### in the event that the authority , in the course of concerted or joint inspections conducted with its operational support , or in the course of any of its activities , becomes aware of suspected irregularities in the application of union law within the scope of its competences , it shall report those suspected irregularities to the authorities in the member state concerned .


### the authority may set up working groups or expert panels with representatives from member states and / or from the commission , or external experts following selection procedures , for the fulfilment of its specific tasks or for specific policy areas , including a mediation board in order to fulfil its tasks in accordance with article 13 of this regulation , and a dedicated group for the purpose of handling financial matters related to the application of regulations no 883 / 2004 and no 987 / 2009 , as referred to in article 8 of this regulation . ### the authority may set up working groups or expert panels with representatives from member states and from the commission , or external experts following selection procedures , for the fulfilment of its specific tasks or for specific policy areas .


### the rules of procedure of such working groups and panels shall be set out by the authority following consultation of the commission . in matters related to social security coordination , the administrative commission for the coordination of social security systems shall also be consulted . ### the rules of procedure of such working groups and panels shall be set out by the authority following consultation of the commission .


### the member states and the commission shall make efforts to limit the turnover of their representatives on the management board in order to ensure continuity of the board ' s work . all parties shall aim to achieve balanced representation between men and women on the management board . ### the member states and the commission shall , when it comes to the turnover of their representatives on the management board , make efforts to ensure the continuity of the board ' s work . all parties shall aim to achieve balanced representation between men and women on the management board .


### in so far as is necessary to achieve the objectives set out in this regulation , and without prejudice to the respective competences of the member states and the institutions of the union , the authority may cooperate with the national authorities of third countries to which the relevant union law on labour mobility and social security coordination applies . ### in so far as is necessary to achieve the objectives set out in this regulation , and without prejudice to the respective competences of the member states and the institutions of the union , the authority may cooperate with the national authorities of third countries to which the relevant union law on labour mobility applies .


### the competence centre should be the union’s main instrument to pool investment in cybersecurity research , technology and industrial development and to implement relevant projects and initiatives together with the cybersecurity competence network . it should deliver cybersecurity - related financial support from the horizon europe and digital europe programmes , and should be open to the european regional development fund and other programmes where appropriate . this approach should contribute to creating synergies and coordinating financial support related to cybersecurity research , innovation , technology and industrial development and avoiding duplication . ### the competence centre should be the union’s main instrument to pool investment in cybersecurity research , technology , especially quantum technologies , and industrial development and to implement relevant projects and initiatives together with the cybersecurity competence network . it should deliver cybersecurity - related financial support from the horizon europe and digital europe programmes , and should be open to the european regional development fund and other programmes where appropriate . this approach should contribute to creating synergies and coordinating financial support related to cybersecurity research , innovation , technology and industrial development and avoiding duplication .


### national coordination centres should be selected by member states . in addition to the necessary administrative capacity , centres should either possess or have direct access to cybersecurity technological expertise in cybersecurity , notably in domains such as cryptography , ict security services , intrusion detection , system security , network security , software and application security , or human and societal aspects of security and privacy . they should also have the capacity to effectively engage and coordinate with the industry , the public sector , including authorities designated pursuant to the directive 2016 / 1148 of the european parliament and of the council23 , and the research community . _________________ 23 directive 2016 / 1148 of the european parliament and of the council of 6 july 2016 concerning measures for a high common level of security of network and information systems across the union . ### national coordination centres should be selected by member states . in addition to the necessary administrative capacity , centres should either possess or have direct access to cybersecurity technological expertise in cybersecurity , notably in domains such as cryptography , ict security services , intrusion detection , system security , network security , software and application security , or human and societal aspects of security and privacy . they should also have the capacity to effectively engage and coordinate with the industry , including smes , the public sector , including authorities designated pursuant to the directive 2016 / 1148 of the european parliament and of the council23 , and the research community . _________________ 23 directive 2016 / 1148 of the european parliament and of the council of 6 july 2016 concerning measures for a high common level of security of network and information systems across the union .


### the competence centre should have several key functions . first , the competence centre should facilitate and help coordinate the work of the european cybersecurity competence network and nurture the cybersecurity competence community . the centre should drive the cybersecurity technological agenda and facilitate access to the expertise gathered in the network and the cybersecurity competence community . secondly , it should implement relevant parts of digital europe and horizon europe programmes by allocating grants , typically following a competitive call for proposals . thirdly , the competence centre should facilitate joint investment by the union , member states and / or industry . ### the competence centre should have several key functions . first , the competence centre should facilitate and help coordinate the work of the european cybersecurity competence network and nurture the cybersecurity competence community . the centre should drive the cybersecurity technological agenda and facilitate access to the expertise gathered in the network and the cybersecurity competence community . secondly , it should implement relevant parts of digital europe and horizon europe programmes by allocating grants , especially in the field of quantum technologies , following a competitive call for proposals . thirdly , the competence centre should facilitate joint investment by the union , member states and / or industry .


### in order to respond to the needs of both demand and supply side industries , the competence centre’s task to provide cybersecurity knowledge and technical assistance to industries should refer to both ict products and services and all other industrial and technological products and solutions in which cybersecurity is to be embedded . ### in order to respond to the needs of both demand and supply side industries , the competence centre’s task to provide cybersecurity knowledge and technical assistance to industries , including smes , should refer to both ict products and services and all other industrial and technological products and solutions in which cybersecurity is to be embedded .


### the current union legislative framework on driftnets has shown weaknesses and loopholes in that rules proved easy to circumvent and ineffective in terms of addressing the conservation concerns linked to this fishing gear . ### the current union legislative framework on driftnets has shown weaknesses and loopholes in that rules proved easy to circumvent and ineffective in terms of addressing the concerns aroused by the use of this fishing gear in relation to the fair and sustainable maintenance of fishery resources .


### foreign direct investment contributes to the union ' s growth , by enhancing its competitiveness , creating jobs and economies of scale , bringing in capital , technologies , innovation , expertise , and by opening new markets for the union ' s exports . it supports the objectives of the commission ' s investment plan for europe and contributes to other union projects and programmes . ### foreign direct investment contributes to the eu member states ' growth , by enhancing their competitiveness , creating jobs and economies of scale , bringing in capital , technologies , innovation , expertise , and by opening new markets for the union ' s exports . it supports the objectives of the commission ' s investment plan for europe and contributes to other union projects and programmes .


### it is important to provide legal certainty and to ensure eu wide coordination and cooperation by establishing a framework for the screening of foreign direct investment in the union on grounds of security or public order . this is without prejudice to the sole responsibility of the member states for the maintenance of national security . ### the establishment of a framework for the screening of foreign direct investment in the union should be without prejudice to the sole responsibility of the member states for the maintenance of national security and public order .


### the framework for the screening of foreign direct investment should provide the member states and the commission with the means to address risks to security or public order in a comprehensive manner , and to adapt to changing circumstances , whilst maintaining the necessary flexibility for member states to screen foreign direct investments on grounds of security and public order taking into account their individual situations and national circumstances . ### the framework for the screening of foreign direct investment should provide the member states with the means to address risks to security or public order in a comprehensive manner , and to adapt to changing circumstances , whilst maintaining the necessary flexibility for member states to screen foreign direct investments on grounds of security and public order taking into account their individual situations and national circumstances .


### to guide member states and the commission in the application of the regulation , it is appropriate to provide a list of factors that may be taken into consideration when screening foreign direct investment on the grounds of security or public order . this list will also improve transparency of the screening process for investors considering making or having made foreign direct investments in the union . this list of factors that may affect security or public order should remain non - exhaustive . ### to guide member states in the application of the regulation , it is appropriate to provide a list of factors that may be taken into consideration when screening foreign direct investment on the grounds of security or public order . this list will also improve transparency of the screening process for investors considering making or having made foreign direct investments in the union . this list of factors that may affect security or public order should remain non - exhaustive .


### in determining whether a foreign direct investment may affect security or public order , member states and the commission should be able to consider all relevant factors , including the effects on critical infrastructure , technologies , including key enabling technologies , and inputs which are essential for security or the maintenance of public order , and the disruption , loss or destruction of which would have a significant impact in a member state or in the union . in that regard , member states and the commission should also be able to take into account whether a foreign investor is controlled directly or indirectly by the government of a third country . ### in determining whether a foreign direct investment may affect security or public order , member states should be able to consider all relevant factors , including the effects on critical infrastructure , technologies , including key enabling technologies , and inputs which are essential for security or the maintenance of public order , and the disruption , loss or destruction of which would have a significant impact in a member state or in the union . in that regard , member states and the commission should also be able to take into account whether a foreign investor is controlled directly or indirectly by the government of a third country or large multinational companies . multinational companies known for their aggressive tax optimisation practices and for systematically relocating production activities should be prevented from depriving the member states of their economic lifeblood and contributing to the gradual exclusion from society of ever larger numbers of people in the member states .


### ' foreign investor ' means a natural person of a third country or an undertaking of a third country intending to make or having made a foreign direct investment ; ### ' foreign investor ' means a natural person of a country other than that member state or an undertaking of a country other than that member state intending to make or having made a foreign direct investment ;


### considering that the movements of cash that are subject to controls under this regulation take place across the external border , and given the difficulty of acting once the cash has left the point of entry or exit and the associated risk if even small amounts are used illicitly , the competent authorities should be able to seize and retain cash temporarily in certain circumstances , subject to checks and balances : first , where the obligation to declare or to disclose has not been met and , secondly , where there are indications of criminal activity , irrespective of the amount or whether the cash is carried by a natural person or is unaccompanied . in view of the nature of such temporary seizure and retention and the impact that it may have on the freedom of movement and the right to property , the period of retention should be limited to the absolute minimum time that other competent authorities require to determine whether there are grounds for further intervention , such as investigations or seizure of the cash based on other legal instruments . a decision to retain cash temporarily under this regulation should be accompanied by a statement of reasons and adequately describe the specific factors that have given rise to the action . if at the end of the time limit no decision concerning the further intervention is taken or if the competent authority decides that there are no grounds to further retain the cash , it should immediately be made available to the declarant . ### considering that the movements of cash that are subject to controls under this regulation take place across the external border , and given the difficulty of acting once the cash has left the point of entry or exit and the associated risk if even small amounts are used illicitly , the competent authorities should be able to seize and retain cash temporarily in certain specific circumstances , subject to checks and balances : first , where the obligation to declare or to disclose has not been met and , secondly , where there are severe indications of criminal activity , irrespective of the amount or whether the cash is carried by a natural person or is unaccompanied . in view of the nature of such temporary seizure and retention and the impact that it may have on the freedom of movement and the right to property , the period of retention should be limited to the absolute minimum time that other competent authorities require to determine whether there are grounds for further intervention , such as investigations or seizure of the cash based on other legal instruments . a decision to retain cash temporarily under this regulation should be accompanied by a statement of reasons and adequately describe the specific factors that have given rise to the action . if at the end of the time limit no decision concerning the further intervention is taken or if the competent authority decides that there are no grounds to further retain the cash , it should immediately be made available to the declarant .


### where they register a failure to declare or disclose or have indications of criminal activity , competent authorities should be able to share the information through appropriate channels with authorities competent for the fight against the criminal activity in question . such exchange of data is proportionate considering that offenders against the obligation to declare who have been apprehended in one member state would be likely to select another member state of entry or exit where the competent authorities would have no knowledge of their earlier infractions . the exchange of such information should be made mandatory , in order to ensure consistent application across member states . where there are indications that the cash is related to criminal activity which could adversely affect the financial interests of the union that information should also be made available to the commission . in order to achieve better the preventive and dissuasive objectives of this regulation with regards to the circumvention of the obligation to declare , anonymised risk information and risk analysis results should also mandatorily be exchanged between member states and with the commission . ### where they register a failure to declare or disclose or have severe indications of criminal activity , competent authorities should be able to share the information through appropriate channels with authorities competent for the fight against the criminal activity in question . such exchange of data is proportionate considering that offenders against the obligation to declare who have been apprehended in one member state would be likely to select another member state of entry or exit where the competent authorities would have no knowledge of their earlier infractions . the exchange of such information should be made mandatory , in order to ensure consistent application across member states . where there are indications that the cash is related to criminal activity which could adversely affect the financial interests of the union that information should also be made available to the commission . in order to achieve better the preventive and dissuasive objectives of this regulation with regards to the circumvention of the obligation to declare , anonymised risk information and risk analysis results should also mandatorily be exchanged between member states and with the commission .


### where the competent authorities detect that a natural person is entering or leaving the union with an amount of cash below the threshold referred to in article 3 and that , following a risk analysis , there are indications that the cash is related to criminal activity , they shall record that information , the full name , address , date and place of birth , and nationality of that person , and the information on the means of transport used . ### where the competent authorities detect that a natural person is entering or leaving the union with an amount of cash below the threshold referred to in article 3 and that , following a risk analysis , there are severe indications that the cash is related to criminal activity , they shall record that information , the full name , address , date and place of birth , and nationality of that person , and the information on the means of transport used .


### where the competent authorities detect that a shipment of unaccompanied cash of an amount below the threshold referred to in article 4 is entering or leaving the union and that , following a risk analysis , there are indications that the cash is related to criminal activity , they shall record that information , the full name , address , date and place of birth , and nationality of the sender , the intended recipient or their representative , and the information on the means of shipment used . ### where the competent authorities detect that a shipment of unaccompanied cash of an amount below the threshold referred to in article 4 is entering or leaving the union and that , following a risk analysis , there are severe indications that the cash is related to criminal activity , they shall record that information , the full name , address , date and place of birth , and nationality of the sender , the intended recipient or their representative , and the information on the means of shipment used .


### there are indications that the cash is related to criminal activity , irrespective of whether it is carried by a natural person or is unaccompanied cash . ### there are severe indications that the cash is related to criminal activity , irrespective of whether it is carried by a natural person or is unaccompanied cash .


### with a view to contributing to the mobility of persons involved in the operation of vessels across the union and considering that all certificates of qualification , service record books and logbooks issued in accordance with this directive should comply with minimum standards , member states should recognise the professional qualifications certified in accordance with this directive . consequently the holders of such qualifications should be able to exercise their profession on all union inland waterways . ### with a view to contributing to the mobility of persons involved in the operation of vessels across the union and considering that all certificates of qualification , service record books and logbooks issued in accordance with this directive should comply with minimum standards , member states should recognise the professional qualifications certified in accordance with this directive . consequently the holders of such qualifications should be able to exercise their profession on all union inland waterways . however , holders of such qualifications from other member states and third countries should be subject to the same employment rules and the same rules on levels of pay and social security contributions as domestic workers . what is more , domestic authorities and businesses should have the right to adopt policies which favour domestic workers .


### if this requirement is met , the commission shall adopt an implementing act on the recognition in the union of the certificates , record books or logbooks issued by that third country , subject to that third country recognising within its jurisdiction union documents issued pursuant to the present directive . ### if this requirement is met and the member states have agreed , the commission shall adopt an implementing act on the recognition in the union of the certificates , record books or logbooks issued by that third country , subject to that third country recognising within its jurisdiction union documents issued pursuant to the present directive .


### the balance between enhancing social and working conditions for drivers and facilitating the exercise of the freedom to provide road transport services based on fair competition between national and foreign operators is crucial for the smooth functioning of the internal market . ### improved social and working conditions for drivers , proper safety standards , the simplification of administrative formalities and an adequate number of checks to ensure fair competition between domestic and foreign operators are of paramount importance to creating a properly functioning road transport sector in the internal market .


### having evaluated the effectiveness and efficiency of the current union social legislation in road transport , certain loopholes in the existing provisions and deficiencies in their enforcement were identified . furthermore a number of discrepancies exist between member states in interpretation , application and implementation of the rules . this creates legal uncertainty and unequal treatment of drivers and operators , which is detrimental to the working , social and competition conditions in the sector . ### current eu social legislation in the road transport sector has fostered social dumping , unregulated relocation and , in general , the proliferation of illicit practices causing unfair competition in this sector , such as , for example , the misuse of cabotage arrangements or letterbox companies .


### checks at premises shall be planned in the light of past experience in relation to the various types of transport and undertakings . they shall also be carried out if serious infringements of regulation no 561 / 2006 or no 165 / 2014 or directive 2002 / 15 / ec have been detected at the roadside . ' ; ### checks at premises or on the company ' s legal representative in a given member state shall be planned in the light of past experience in relation to the various types of transport and undertakings , and of any history of non - compliance . they shall also be carried out if serious infringements of regulation no 561 / 2006 or no 165 / 2014 or directive 2002 / 15 / ec have been detected at the roadside . ' ;


### in accordance with article 2 of the treaty of the european union , ' the union is founded on the values of respect for human dignity , freedom democracy , equality , the rule of law and the respect for human rights , including the rights of the persons belonging to minorities . these values are common to the member states in a society where pluralism , non - discrimination , tolerance , justice , solidarity and equality between women and men prevail ' . article 3 further specifies that the ' union ' s aim is to promote peace , its values and the well - being of its people ' and , among others , ' it shall respect its rich cultural and linguistic diversity , and shall ensure that europe ' s cultural heritage is safeguarded and enhanced ' . those values are further reaffirmed and articulated in the rights , freedoms and principles enshrined in the charter of fundamental rights of the european union . ### in accordance with article 2 of the treaty of the european union , ' the union is founded on the values of respect for human dignity , freedom democracy , equality , the rule of law and the respect for human rights , including the rights of the persons belonging to minorities . these values are common to the member states in a society where pluralism , non - discrimination , tolerance , justice , solidarity and equality between women and men prevail ' . article 3 further specifies that the ' union ' s aim is to promote peace , its values and the well - being of its people ' and , among others , ' it shall respect its rich cultural and linguistic diversity , and shall ensure that europe ' s cultural heritage is safeguarded and enhanced ' . article 167 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union states that ' the union shall contribute to the flowering of the cultures of the member states , while respecting their national and regional diversity and at the same time bringing the common cultural heritage to the fore . ' those values are further reaffirmed and articulated in the rights , freedoms and principles enshrined in the charter of fundamental rights of the european union .


### those rights and values must continue to be promoted and enforced and shared among the citizens and peoples and be at the heart of the eu project . therefore , a new justice , rights and values fund , comprising the rights and values and the justice programmes shall be created in the eu budget . at a time where european societies are confronted with extremism , radicalism and divisions , it is more important than ever to promote , strengthen and defend justice , rights and eu values : human rights , respect for human dignity , freedom , democracy , equality , the rule of law . this will have profound and direct implications for political , social , cultural and economic life in the eu . as part of the new fund , the justice programme will continue to support the further development of union area of justice and cross - border cooperation . the rights and values programme will bring together the 2014 - 2020 programme rights , equality and citizenship established by regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council8 and the europe for citizens programme established by council regulation no 390 / 20149 , . _________________ 8 regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 17 december 2013 establishing a rights , equality and citizenship programme for the period 2014 to 2020 9 council regulation no 390 / 2014 of 14 april 2014 establishing the ‘ europe for citizens’ programme for the period 2014 - 2020 ### those rights and values must continue to be promoted and enforced and shared among the citizens and peoples and be at the heart of the eu project , while respecting the competences of the member states , particularly with regard to their migration policy , since , under article 79 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union , member states are free in particular to determine the number of economic migrants accepted in their territory . therefore , a new justice , rights and values fund , comprising the rights and values and the justice programmes shall be created in the eu budget . at a time where european societies are confronted with extremism , radicalism – particularly islamist fundamentalism and the terrorist threat to which it gives rise – and divisions , it is more important than ever to promote , strengthen and defend justice , rights and eu values : human rights , respect for human dignity , freedom , democracy , equality , the rule of law . this will have profound and direct implications for political , social , cultural and economic life in the eu . as part of the new fund , the justice programme will continue to support the further development of union area of justice and cross - border cooperation . the rights and values programme will bring together the 2014 - 2020 programme rights , equality and citizenship established by regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council8 and the europe for citizens programme established by council regulation no 390 / 20149 , . _________________ 8 regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 17 december 2013 establishing a rights , equality and citizenship programme for the period 2014 to 2020 9 council regulation no 390 / 2014 of 14 april 2014 establishing the ‘ europe for citizens’ programme for the period 2014 - 2020


### the justice , rights and values fund and its two underlying funding programmes will focus primarily on people and entities , which contribute to make our common values , rights and rich diversity alive and vibrant . the ultimate objective is to nurture and sustain rights - based , equal , inclusive and democratic society . that includes a vibrant civil society , encouraging people ' s democratic , civic and social participation and fostering the rich diversity of european society , based on our common history and memory . article 11 of the treaty of the european union further specifies that the institutions shall , by appropriate means , give citizens and representative associations the opportunity to make known and publicly exchange their views in all areas of union action . ### the justice , rights and values fund and its two underlying funding programmes will focus primarily on people and entities , which contribute to make our common values and rights and the rich cultural diversity of the national cultures of the member states alive and vibrant in accordance with the aforementioned article 167 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union . the ultimate objective is to nurture and sustain rights - based , equal , just , meritocratic and democratic society . that includes a vibrant civil society , encouraging people ' s democratic , civic and social participation and fostering the rich diversity of the national cultures of the european union , based on national histories and cultures and our common history and memory . article 11 of the treaty of the european union further specifies that the institutions shall , by appropriate means , give citizens and representative associations the opportunity to make known and publicly exchange their views in all areas of union action .


### in order to bring the european union closer to its citizens , a variety of actions and coordinated efforts are necessary . bringing together citizens in town - twinning projects or networks of towns and supporting civil society organisations in the areas covered by the programme will contribute to increase citizens ' engagement in society and ultimately their involvement in the democratic life of the union . at the same time supporting activities promoting mutual understanding , diversity , dialogue and respect for others fosters a sense of belonging and a european identity , based on a shared understanding of european values , culture , history and heritage . the promotion of a greater sense of belonging to the union and of union values is particularly important amongst citizens of the eu outermost regions due to their remoteness and distance from continental europe . ### bringing together citizens in town - twinning projects or networks of towns and supporting civil society organisations in the areas covered by the programme will contribute to increase citizens ' engagement in society . at the same time supporting activities promoting mutual understanding , dialogue and respect for others fosters civic competences based on a shared understanding of european values and of the national cultures , histories and heritage of the european union .


### attitudinal and environmental barriers as well as lack of accessibility hinder the full and effective participation of people with disabilities in society , on an equal basis with others . people with disabilities are faced with barriers to , among other things , access the labour market , benefit from an inclusive and quality education , avoid poverty and social exclusion , enjoy access to cultural initiatives and media , or use their political rights . as a party to the united nations convention on the rights of persons with disabilities , the union and all its member states have committed to promote , protect and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by all persons with disabilities . the provisions of the uncrpd have become an integral part of the union legal order . ### attitudinal and environmental barriers as well as lack of accessibility hinder the full and effective participation of people with disabilities in society , on an equal basis with others . people with disabilities are faced with barriers to , among other things , access the labour market , benefit from an inclusive and quality education , avoid poverty and social exclusion , enjoy access to cultural infrastructure and initiatives and media , or use their political rights , as well as the innumerable obstacles encountered in everyday life due to the inaccessibility of much infrastructure and many public or private buildings . as a party to the united nations convention on the rights of persons with disabilities , the union and all its member states have committed to promote , protect and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by all persons with disabilities . the provisions of the uncrpd have become an integral part of the union legal order .


### article 24 tfeu obliges the european parliament and the council to adopt provisions for the procedures and conditions required for a citizen ' s initiative within the meaning of article 11 of the treaty on european union . this has been done by adopting regulation [ no 211 / 2011 of the european parliament and of the council14 ] . the programme should support the financing of technical and organisational support to implement regulation [ no 211 / 2011 ] , thereby underpinning the exercise by citizens of the right to launch and support european citizens’ initiatives . _________________ 14 regulation no 211 / 2011 of the european parliament and of the council of 16 february 2011 on the citizens’ initiative . ### article 24 tfeu obliges the european parliament and the council to adopt provisions for the procedures and conditions required for a citizen ' s initiative within the meaning of article 11 of the treaty on european union . this has been done by adopting regulation [ no 211 / 2011 of the european parliament and of the council14 ] . the programme should support the financing of technical and organisational support to implement regulation [ no 211 / 2011 ] , thereby underpinning the exercise by citizens of the right to launch and support european citizens’ initiatives . it should also ensure that citizens’ initiatives that are actually submitted to the european commission are considered in a transparent manner , with an opportunity for both sides to be heard . _________________ 14 regulation no 211 / 2011 of the european parliament and of the council of 16 february 2011 on the citizens’ initiative .


### in accordance with union acts on equal treatment , member states set up independent bodies for the promotion of equal treatment , commonly known as ' equality bodies ' , in order to combat discrimination based on race and ethnic origin as well as gender . however , many member states have gone beyond these requirements and ensured that equality bodies can also deal with discrimination based on the other grounds such as age , sexual orientation , religion and belief , disability or other grounds . equality bodies play a key role in promoting equality and ensuring effective application of equal treatment legislation by providing in particular an independent assistance to victims of discrimination , conducting independent surveys concerning discrimination , publishing independent reports and making recommendations on any issue relating to discrimination in their country . it is essential that the work of equality bodies is coordinated at union level in this respect . equinet was created in 2007 . its members are the national bodies for the promotion of equal treatment as established by council directives 2000 / 43 / ec15 and 2004 / 113 / ec16 , and by directives 2006 / 54 / ec17 and 2010 / 41 / eu18 of the european parliament and of the council . equinet is in an exceptional situation , being the only entity which ensures coordination of activities between equality bodies . this coordination activity by equinet is key for the good implementation of union anti - discrimination law in member states and should be supported by the programme . _________________ 15 council directive 2000 / 43 / ec of 29 june 2000 implementing the principle of equal treatment between persons irrespective of racial or ethnic origin . 16 council directive 2004 / 113 / ec of 13 december 2004 implementing the principle of equal treatment between men and women in the access to and supply of goods and services . 17 directive 2006 / 54 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 5 july 2006 on the implementation of the principle of equal opportunities and equal treatment of men and women in matters of employment and occupation . 18 directive 2010 / 41 / eu of the european parliament and of the council of 7 july 2010 on the application of the principle of equal treatment between men and women engaged in an activity in a self - employed capacity and repealing council directive 86 / 613 / eec . ### in accordance with union acts on equal treatment , member states set up independent bodies for the promotion of equal treatment , commonly known as ' equality bodies ' , in order to combat discrimination based on race and ethnic origin as well as gender . however , many member states have gone beyond these requirements and ensured that equality bodies can also deal with discrimination based on the other grounds such as age , sexual orientation , religion and belief , disability , social origin and socioeconomic status or other grounds . equality bodies play a key role in promoting equality and ensuring effective application of equal treatment legislation by providing in particular an independent assistance to victims of discrimination , conducting independent surveys concerning discrimination , publishing independent reports and making recommendations on any issue relating to discrimination in their country . equinet was created in 2007 . its members are the national bodies for the promotion of equal treatment as established by council directives 2000 / 43 / ec15 and 2004 / 113 / ec16 , and by directives 2006 / 54 / ec17 and 2010 / 41 / eu18 of the european parliament and of the council . equinet is in an exceptional situation , being the only entity which ensures coordination of activities between equality bodies . _________________ 15 council directive 2000 / 43 / ec of 29 june 2000 implementing the principle of equal treatment between persons irrespective of racial or ethnic origin . 16 council directive 2004 / 113 / ec of 13 december 2004 implementing the principle of equal treatment between men and women in the access to and supply of goods and services . 17 directive 2006 / 54 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 5 july 2006 on the implementation of the principle of equal opportunities and equal treatment of men and women in matters of employment and occupation . 18 directive 2010 / 41 / eu of the european parliament and of the council of 7 july 2010 on the application of the principle of equal treatment between men and women engaged in an activity in a self - employed capacity and repealing council directive 86 / 613 / eec .


### independent human rights bodies and civil society organisations play an essential role in promoting , safeguarding and raising awareness of the union’s common values under article 2 teu , and in contributing to the effective enjoyment of rights under union law , including the charter of fundamental rights of the eu . as reflected in the european parliament resolution of 18 april 2018 , adequate financial support is key to the development of a conducive and sustainable environment for civil society organisations to strengthen their role and perform their functions independently and effectively . complementing efforts at national level , eu funding should therefore contribute to support , empower and build the capacity of independent civil society organisations active in the promotion of human rights whose activities help the strategic enforcement of rights under eu law and the charter of fundamental rights of the eu , including through advocacy and watchdog activities , as well as to promote , safeguard and raise awareness of the union’s common values at national level . ### independent human rights bodies and civil society organisations play an essential role in promoting , safeguarding and raising awareness of the union’s common values under article 2 teu , and in contributing to the effective enjoyment of rights under union law , including the charter of fundamental rights of the eu . as reflected in the european parliament resolution of 18 april 2018 , adequate financial support is key to the development of a conducive and sustainable environment for civil society organisations to strengthen their role and perform their functions independently and effectively . complementing efforts at national level , eu funding should therefore contribute to support , empower and build the capacity of independent civil society organisations active in the promotion of human rights whose activities help the strategic enforcement of rights under eu law and the charter of fundamental rights of the eu , including through advocacy and watchdog activities , as well as to promote , safeguard and raise awareness of the union’s common values at national level , with the proviso that these actions must be apolitical and must not result in interference in the internal affairs of a member state or in any way infringe its law . it should be noted that a member state is entitled to regulate or , where appropriate , restrict the performance of certain activities or the presence of certain entities on its territory on grounds of public policy , subject to compliance with applicable legislation , particularly concerning freedom of association .


### the types of financing and the methods of implementation under this regulation should be chosen on the basis of their ability to achieve the specific objectives of the actions and to deliver results , taking into account , in particular , the costs of controls , the administrative burden , and the expected risk of non - compliance . this should include consideration of the use of lump sums , flat rates and unit costs , as well as financing not linked to costs as referred to in article 125 of the financial regulation . in accordance with the financial regulation , regulation no 883 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council20 council regulation no 2988 / 9521 council regulation no 2185 / 9622 and council regulation 2017 / 193923 the financial interests of the union are to be protected through proportionate measures , including the prevention , detection , correction and investigation of irregularities and fraud , the recovery of funds lost , wrongly paid or incorrectly used and , where appropriate , the imposition of administrative sanctions . in particular , in accordance with regulation no 883 / 2013 and regulation no 2185 / 96 the european anti - fraud office should carry out administrative investigations , including on - the - spot checks and inspections , with a view to establishing whether there has been fraud , corruption or any other illegal activity affecting the financial interests of the union . in accordance with regulation 2017 / 1939 , the european public prosecutor’s office may investigate and prosecute fraud and other criminal offences affecting the financial interests of the union as provided for in directive 2017 / 1371 of the european parliament and of the council24 . in accordance with the financial regulation , any person or entity receiving union funds is to fully cooperate in the protection of the union’s financial interests , to grant the necessary rights and access to the commission , olaf , the eppo and the european court of auditors and to ensure that any third parties involved in the implementation of union funds grant equivalent rights . _________________ 20 regulation no 883 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 11 september 2013 concerning investigations conducted by the european anti - fraud office and repealing regulation no 1073 / 1999 of the european parliament and of the council and council regulation no 1074 / 1999 , no 2988 / 95 of 18 december 1995 on the protection of the european communities financial interests . 22 council regulation no 2185 / 96 of 11 november 1996 concerning on - the - spot checks and inspections carried out by the commission in order to protect the european communities’ financial interests against fraud and other irregularities . 23 council regulation 2017 / 1939 of 12 october 2017 implementing enhanced cooperation on the establishment of the european public prosecutor’s office . 24 directive 2017 / 1371 of the european parliament and of the council of 5 july 2017 on the fight against fraud to the union’s financial interests by means of criminal law . ### the types of financing and the methods of implementation under this regulation should be chosen on the basis of their ability to achieve the specific objectives of the actions and to deliver results , taking into account , in particular , the costs of controls , the administrative burden , and the expected risk of non - compliance . this should include consideration of the use of lump sums , flat rates and unit costs , as well as financing not linked to costs as referred to in article 125 of the financial regulation . in accordance with the financial regulation , regulation no 883 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council20 council regulation no 2988 / 9521 council regulation no 2185 / 9622 and council regulation 2017 / 193923 the financial interests of the union are to be protected through rigorous and effective measures , including the prevention , detection , correction and investigation of irregularities and fraud , the recovery of funds lost , wrongly paid or incorrectly used and , where appropriate , the imposition of administrative sanctions . in particular , in accordance with regulation no 883 / 2013 and regulation no 2185 / 96 the european anti - fraud office should carry out administrative investigations , including on - the - spot checks and inspections , with a view to establishing whether there has been fraud , corruption or any other illegal activity affecting the financial interests of the union . in accordance with regulation 2017 / 1939 , the european public prosecutor’s office may investigate and prosecute fraud and other criminal offences affecting the financial interests of the union as provided for in directive 2017 / 1371 of the european parliament and of the council24 . in accordance with the financial regulation , any person or entity receiving union funds is to fully cooperate in the protection of the union’s financial interests , to grant the necessary rights and access to the commission , olaf , the eppo and the european court of auditors and to ensure that any third parties involved in the implementation of union funds grant equivalent rights . _________________ 20 regulation no 883 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 11 september 2013 concerning investigations conducted by the european anti - fraud office and repealing regulation no 1073 / 1999 of the european parliament and of the council and council regulation no 1074 / 1999 , no 2988 / 95 of 18 december 1995 on the protection of the european communities financial interests . 22 council regulation no 2185 / 96 of 11 november 1996 concerning on - the - spot checks and inspections carried out by the commission in order to protect the european communities’ financial interests against fraud and other irregularities . 23 council regulation 2017 / 1939 of 12 october 2017 implementing enhanced cooperation on the establishment of the european public prosecutor’s office . 24 directive 2017 / 1371 of the european parliament and of the council of 5 july 2017 on the fight against fraud to the union’s financial interests by means of criminal law .


### in order to ensure uniform conditions for the implementation of this regulation , 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 indicators as indicated in article 14 and 16 and annex ii . it is of particular importance that the commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level , and that those consultations be conducted in accordance with the principles laid down in the interinstitutional agreement on better law - making of 13 april 2016 . in particular , to ensure equal participation in the preparation of delegated acts , the european parliament and the council receive all documents at the same time as member states’ experts , and their experts systematically have access to meetings of commission expert groups dealing with the preparation of delegated acts . ### in order to ensure uniform conditions for the implementation of this regulation , until 2027 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 indicators as indicated in article 14 and 16 and annex ii . that power may be revoked by the european parliament at any time . it is of particular importance that the commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level , and that those consultations be conducted in accordance with the principles laid down in the interinstitutional agreement on better law - making of 13 april 2016 . in particular , to ensure equal participation in the preparation of delegated acts , the european parliament and the council receive all documents at the same time as member states’ experts , and their experts systematically have access to meetings of commission expert groups dealing with the preparation of delegated acts .


### protecting and promoting the rights of the child , the rights of people with disabilities , union citizenship rights and the right to the protection of personal data . ### protecting and promoting the rights of the child , the rights of people with disabilities , union citizenship rights and the right to the protection of privacy , family life and personal data .


### strengthening citizen ' s awareness of european culture , history and remembrance as well as their sense of belonging to the union ; ### strengthening citizens’ awareness of national cultures and the shared cultural heritage of the european union , particularly the greco - roman and judeo - christian legacy , the histories of the member states , and european history and remembrance ;


### developing the capacity of european networks to promote and further develop union law , policy goals and strategies as well as supporting civil society organisations active in the areas covered by the programme . ### developing the capacity of european networks to promote and further develop union law , policy goals and strategies as well as supporting civil society organisations active in the areas covered by the programme , with due regard for the legislation of the member states where the actions concerned are implemented .


### member states shall take the necessary measures to ensure that workers have the right to request parental leave also on a part - time basis , in blocks separated by periods of work or in other flexible forms . employers shall consider and respond to such requests , taking into account the needs of both employers and workers . employers shall justify any refusal of such a request in writing . ### member states shall take the necessary measures , in relation to specific requirements associated with the types of undertakings located in the various localities , to ensure that workers have the right to request parental leave also on a part - time basis , in blocks separated by periods of work or in other flexible forms . employers shall consider and respond to such requests , taking into account the needs of both employers and workers . employers shall justify any refusal of such a request in writing .


### each member state shall organise a partnership with the competent regional and local authorities . that partnership shall include at least the following partners : ### each member state shall organise a partnership with the competent national , regional and local authorities . that partnership shall include at least the following partners :


### where the commission disagrees with the assessment of the member state , it shall inform the member state accordingly and give it the opportunity to present its observations within one month . ### where the commission disagrees with the assessment of the member state , it shall inform the member state accordingly and give it the opportunity to present its observations within one month . the deadline may be extended if the member state presents an appropriate justification to the commission .


### selected operations shall comply with the territorial strategy . ### selected operations that contribute towards achievement of the specific objectives for which funding is received shall comply with the territorial strategy .


### as of 1 january 2024 , resources transferred to the cef which have not been committed to a transport infrastructure project shall be made available to all member states eligible for funding from the cohesion fund to finance transport infrastructure projects in accordance with regulation [ the new cef regulation ] . ### as of 1 january 2026 , resources transferred to the cef which have not been committed to a transport infrastructure project shall be made available to all member states eligible for funding from the cohesion fund to finance transport infrastructure projects in accordance with regulation [ the new cef regulation ] .


### with the adoption of directive 2017 / 1371 of the european parliament and of the council3 and council regulation 2017 / 19394 , the union has substantially strengthened the means available to protect the financial interests of the union by means of criminal law . the european public prosecutor ' s office will have the power to carry out criminal investigations and bring indictments related to criminal offences affecting the union budget , as defined in directive 2017 / 1371 , in the participating member states . _________________ 3 directive 2017 / 1371 of the european parliament and of the council of 5 july 2017 on the fight against fraud to the union ' s financial interests by means of criminal law . 4 council regulation 2017 / 1939 of 12 october 2017 implementing enhanced cooperation on the establishment of the european public prosecutor’s office . ### rejects the proposal for a regulation of the european parliament and of the council amending regulation no 883 / 2013 concerning investigations conducted by the european anti - fraud office as regards cooperation with the european public prosecutor ' s office and the effectiveness of olaf investigations .


### the commission should provide a working plan for the revision of labels of particular products including an indicative list of further energy - related products for which an energy label could be established . the working plan should be implemented starting with a technical , environmental and economic analysis of the product groups concerned . this analysis should also look at supplementary information including the possibility and cost to provide consumers with information on the performance of an energy - related product , such as its absolute energy consumption , durability or environmental performance , in coherence with the objective to promote a circular economy . such supplementary information should improve the intelligibility and effectiveness of the label towards consumers and should not lead to any negative impact on consumers . ### the commission should provide a working plan for the revision of labels of particular products including an indicative list of further energy - related products for which an energy label could be established . it is necessary to extend the energy label to the most commonly used domestic devices , now including computers and all heating appliances . the working plan should be implemented starting with a technical , environmental and economic analysis of the product groups concerned . this analysis should also look at supplementary information including the possibility and cost to provide consumers with information on the performance of an energy - related product , such as its absolute energy consumption , durability or environmental performance , in coherence with the objective to promote a circular economy . such supplementary information should improve the intelligibility and effectiveness of the label towards consumers and should not lead to any negative impact on consumers .


### this regulation lays down a framework on the indication by labelling and standard product information of the consumption of energy and other resources by energy - related products during use and supplementary information concerning energy - related products in order to allow customers to choose more efficient products . ### this regulation lays down a framework on the indication by labelling and standard product information of the consumption of energy and other resources by energy - related products during use and supplementary information concerning energy - related products in order to allow customers to choose more efficient products . the labelling shall also indicate the probable lifespan of the product under normal conditions of use and the period of guaranteed spare part availability .


### ' supplementary information ' means information on the functional and environmental performance of an energy - related product , such as its absolute energy consumption or durability , which is based on data that are measurable by market surveillance authorities , is unambiguous and has no significant negative impact on the clear intelligibility and effectiveness of the label as a whole towards customers . ### ' supplementary information ' means information on the functional and environmental performance of an energy - related product , such as its absolute energy consumption or durability , which is based on data that are measurable by market surveillance authorities , is unambiguous and has no significant negative impact on the clear intelligibility and effectiveness of the label as a whole towards customers . the additional information shall also indicate the probable lifespan of the product under normal conditions of use and the period of guaranteed spare part availability .


### in order to provide greater possibility for parents to use parental leave as their children grow up , the right to parental leave should be granted until the child is at least twelve years old . member states should be able to specify the period of notice to be given by the worker to the employer when applying for parental leave and to decide whether the right to parental leave may be subject to a certain period of service . in view of the growing diversity of contractual arrangements , the sum of successive fixed - term contracts with the same employer should be taken into account for the purpose of calculating the period of service . to balance the needs of workers with those of employers , member states should also be able to decide whether they define if the employer may be allowed to postpone the granting of parental leave under certain circumstances . in such cases , the employer should provide justification for the postponement . given that flexibility makes it more likely that second parents , in particular fathers , will take up their entitlement to such leave , workers should be able to request to take parental leave on a full - time or part - time basis or in other flexible forms . it should be up to the employer whether or not to accept such a request for parental leave in other flexible forms than full - time . member states should also assess if the conditions and detailed arrangements of parental leave should be adapted to the specific needs of parents in particularly disadvantaged situations . ### in order to provide greater possibility for parents to use parental leave as their children grow up , the right to parental leave should be granted until the child is at least twelve years old . member states should be able to specify the period of notice to be given by the worker to the employer when applying for parental leave and to decide whether the right to parental leave may be subject to a certain period of service . in view of the growing diversity of contractual arrangements , the sum of successive fixed - term contracts with the same employer should be taken into account for the purpose of calculating the period of service . to balance the needs of workers with those of employers , member states should also be able to decide whether they define if the employer may be allowed to postpone the granting of parental leave under certain circumstances . in such cases , the employer should provide justification for the postponement . given that the flexibility required of workers makes it more likely that second parents , in particular fathers , will take up their entitlement to such leave , they should be able to request to take parental leave on a full - time or part - time basis or in other flexible forms . it should be up to the employer whether or not to accept such a request for parental leave in other flexible forms than full - time . member states should also assess if the conditions and detailed arrangements of parental leave should be adapted to the specific needs of parents in particularly disadvantaged situations .


### the commission ' s communication of 3 march 2010 entitled ' europe 2020 : a strategy for smart , sustainable and inclusive growth ' 30 sets the objective of the union becoming an economy based on knowledge and innovation , reducing the administrative burden on companies and better matching labour supply with demand . measures to facilitate the admission of third - country national highly skilled workers have to be seen in that broader context . _________________ 30 com 2020 final ### the commission ' s communication of 3 march 2010 entitled ' europe 2020 : a strategy for smart , sustainable and inclusive growth ' 30 should encourage the member states to promote an economy based on knowledge and innovation , reducing the administrative burden on companies and better matching labour supply with demand . measures to regulate the admission of third - country national highly skilled workers have to be seen in that broader context . _________________ 30 com 2020 final


### the commission ' s communication of 3 march 2010 entitled ' europe 2020 : a strategy for smart , sustainable and inclusive growth ' 30 sets the objective of the union becoming an economy based on knowledge and innovation , reducing the administrative burden on companies and better matching lab our supply with demand . measures to facilitate the admission of third - country national highly skilled workers have to be seen in that broader context . _________________ 30 com 2020 final ### the commission ' s communication of 3 march 2010 entitled ' europe 2020 : a strategy for smart , sustainable and inclusive growth ' 30 sets the objective of the union becoming an economy based on knowledge and innovation , reducing the administrative burden on companies and better matching labour supply with demand . access to the labour market should therefore be facilitated and encouraged for the more than 20 million people who are unemployed in the european union . _________________ 30 com2020 final


### the transfer of responsibility for protection of beneficiaries of international protection is outside the scope of this directive : the protection status and the rights associated with it should not be transferred to another member state on the basis of the issuance of an eu blue card . ### the transfer of responsibility for and obligations concerning protection of beneficiaries of international protection is outside the scope of this directive : the protection status and the rights associated with it should not be transferred to another member state on the basis of the issuance of an eu blue card .


### it is necessary to provide for a flexible demand - driven admission system based on objective criteria , such as a work contract or a binding job offer of at least 6 months , a salary threshold adaptable by the member states to the situation in its labour market and higher professional qualifications . ### it is necessary and right to provide for a flexible demand - driven admission system based on objective criteria , such as a work contract or a binding job offer of at least 6 months with a minimum salary that can guarantee the individual concerned is completely self - sufficient .


### olive oil is tunisia’s main agricultural export product to the union and the olive oil industry is an important part of the country’s economy . ### olive oil is tunisia’s main agricultural export product to the union and olive oil production is an agricultural speciality of some member states’ regions , especially in greece , italy , france and spain .


### moderation of energy demand is one of the five dimensions of the energy union strategy adopted on 25 february 2015 . improving energy efficiency will benefit the environment , reduce greenhouse gas emissions , improve energy security by reducing dependence on energy imports from outside the union , cut energy costs for households and companies , help alleviate energy poverty and lead to increased jobs and economy - wide economic activity . this is in line with the union commitments made in the framework of the energy union and global climate agenda established by the paris agreement of december 2015 by the parties of the united nation framework convention on climate change . ### moderation of energy demand is one of the five dimensions of the energy union strategy adopted on 25 february 2015 . improving energy efficiency will benefit the environment , reduce greenhouse gas emissions , improve energy security by reducing dependence on energy imports from outside the union , cut energy costs for households and companies , help alleviate energy poverty and lead to increased jobs and economy - wide economic activity . this is in line with the commitments assumed by the member states regarding the energy of the european union and global climate agenda established by the paris agreement of december 2015 by the parties of the united nation framework convention on climate change .