### — the implementation of the envisaged measures is expected to significantly contribute to the improvement of energy infrastructure and facilities to meet immediate security of supply needs for oil and gas , notably to enable diversification of supply in the interest of the union as a whole , ### — the implementation of the envisaged measures is expected to significantly contribute to the improvement of energy infrastructure and facilities to meet immediate security of supply needs for oil and gas , notably to enable diversification of supply , reduction of dependency to fossil fuels and to all overall energy imports , in the interest of the union as a whole ,


### — the implementation of the envisaged measures is expected to significantly contribute to boosting energy efficiency in buildings , decarbonising industry , increasing production and uptake of sustainable biomethane and renewable or fossil free hydrogen and increasing the share of renewable energy , ### — the implementation of the envisaged measures is expected to significantly contribute to boosting energy efficiency in buildings , decarbonising industry , increasing production and uptake of low-carbon or carbon-free electricity , sustainable biomethane and renewable or fossil free and low-carbon hydrogen and increasing the share of renewable and low-carbon energy ,


### — the implementation of the envisaged measures is expected to address energy infrastructure bottlenecks , in particular by constructing cross-border links with other member states , or supports zero-emission transport and its infrastructure , including railways , ### — the implementation of the envisaged measures is expected to address energy infrastructure bottlenecks , in particular by constructing cross-border links with other member states , or supports zero and low emission transport and its infrastructure , including railways ,


### — the implementation of the envisaged measures is expected to significantly contribute to supporting a requalification of the workforce towards green skills , as well as supporting value chains in key materials and technologies linked to the green transition , ### — the implementation of the envisaged measures is expected to significantly contribute to supporting a requalification of the workforce towards energy sectors , as well as supporting value chains in key materials and technologies linked to the decarbonisation of energy production ,


### (5) to maximise the scope of the union’s response , all member states submitting a recovery and resilience plan after the entry into force of this regulation should be required to include a repowereu chapter in their plan. this requirement should apply , in particular , to revised plans submitted by member states from 30 june 2022 to take into account the updated maximum financial contribution. ### (5) to maximise the scope of the union’s response , all member states submitting a recovery and resilience plan after the entry into force of this regulation should be required to include a repowereu chapter in their plan. such amended plans , should be submitted at the latest by [two months after the entry into force of this amended regulation]. this requirement should apply , in particular , to revised plans submitted by member states from 30 june 2022 to take into account the updated maximum financial contribution. the commission should evaluate the amended plans in maximum one month from their official submission.


### e. whereas the density of waste has more than doubled in thirty years; whereas the improper management and treatment of waste from rivers and urban areas make the mediterranean the area with the sixth largest accumulation of marine litter in the world; ### e. whereas the density of waste has more than doubled in thirty years; whereas the improper management and treatment of waste from rivers and urban areas make the mediterranean the area with the sixth largest accumulation of marine litter in the world , and could move it further up the ranking unless ambitious measures are taken;


### f. whereas the impact of maritime transport , which carries 20 % of the world’s trade through the mediterranean , generates between 100 000 and 200 000 tonnes per year of intentional hydrocarbon discharges; whereas industrial activities and intensive farming result in run-off into rivers and contamination of groundwater , and contribute , along with offshore oil and gas refineries , to worsening sea pollution in the whole basin; ### f. whereas the impact of maritime transport , which carries 20 % of the world’s trade through the mediterranean , generates between 100 000 and 200 000 tonnes per year of intentional hydrocarbon discharges; whereas industrial activities could result in run-off into rivers and contamination of groundwater , and contribute , along with offshore oil and gas refineries , to worsening sea pollution in the whole basin;


### h. whereas the mediterranean basin is warming 20 % faster than the global average; whereas global warming will cause severe consequences that must be anticipated; whereas meeting the paris agreement limit of 1.5 °c of warming calls for a halving of the eu’s energy demand by 2050 compared to 2015 levels and requires the other countries of the mediterranean area to contribute through increased cooperation; ### h. whereas the mediterranean basin is warming 20 % faster than the global average; whereas global warming will cause severe consequences that must be anticipated; whereas meeting the paris agreement limit of 1.5 °c of warming calls for a halving of the eu’s energy demand by 2050 compared to 2015 levels which requires prioritization of the deployment of energy efficiency solutions and increased cooperation on energy projects with the other countries along the coasts of the mediterranean by using the region's untapped potential for helping the eu to reach its energy as well as climate targets;


### 1. recalls that the union is responsible for half of the mediterranean basin and cannot remain passive in the face of the multiple political , social , economic and environmental challenges confronting the area; ### 1. believes that the union cannot remain passive in the face of the multiple political , social , economic and environmental challenges confronting the mediterranean basin;


### 1. stresses that the development of the blue economy in the mediterranean will inevitably increase competition for the use of marine and coastal space and resources; calls for the full deployment of ecosystem-based integrated coastal zone management (iczm) and maritime spatial planning (msp) as tools to avoid conflicts and promote harmonious sustainable development across the mediterranean; ### 1. stresses that the development of the blue economy in the mediterranean will inevitably increase competition for the use of space and marine and coastal resources and calls , in this regard , for the views of all stakeholders in the blue economy to be taken into account; calls for the full deployment of ecosystem-based integrated coastal zone management (iczm) and maritime spatial planning (msp) as tools to avoid conflicts and promote harmonious sustainable development across the mediterranean;


### 2. deplores the continuous degradation of the environment in the entire mediterranean basin , the loss of biodiversity and the increasing air and marine pollution; ### 2. notes the continuous degradation of the environment in the entire mediterranean basin , the loss of biodiversity and the increasing air and marine pollution;


### 2. notes that in the current common fisheries policy architecture , funding for fisheries through the european maritime , fisheries and aquaculture fund (emfaf) is mostly decoupled from cohesion policy , although some interlinkages can be developed on an ad hoc basis; notes that the majority of operators in the fisheries and aquaculture sectors are small , which is an obstacle to their accessing cohesion funds; notes that , beyond the emfaf , a number of eu funds are relevant to the blue economy , including the european structural and investment funds (esi funds) , the instrument for pre-accession assistance (ipa) , the neighbourhood , development and international cooperation instrument (ndici) – ‘global europe’ and the connecting europe facility (cef); ### 2. notes that in the current common fisheries policy architecture , funding for fisheries through the european maritime , fisheries and aquaculture fund (emfaf) is mostly decoupled from cohesion policy , although some interlinkages can be developed on an ad hoc basis; notes that the majority of operators in the fisheries and aquaculture sectors are small , which is an obstacle to their accessing cohesion funds and , therefore , deems it necessary to facilitate their access , including through greater involvement of the responsible fishers’ associations; notes that , beyond the emfaf , a number of eu funds are relevant to the blue economy , including the european structural and investment funds (esi funds) , the instrument for pre-accession assistance (ipa) , the neighbourhood , development and international cooperation instrument (ndici) – ‘global europe’ and the connecting europe facility (cef);


### 3. believes that the governance of the mediterranean could be improved through better coordination and the setting up of a dedicated operational instrument for the development of an integrated and sustainable blue economy strategy; ### 3. believes that the governance of the mediterranean could be improved through better coordination and the setting up of a dedicated operational instrument for the development of an integrated and sustainable blue economy strategy; further notes that , in the context of the governance of the mediterranean , the commission needs to step up its dialogue with the north african countries so as to ensure compliance with the policies of the united nations convention on the law of the sea (unclos) and the general fisheries commission for the mediterranean (gfcm) in order to fight illegal fishing practices and market distortion owing to the lack of a level playing field for sector operators , which puts eu fishers at a disadvantage; further calls on the commission to encourage all third countries in the mediterranean basin to ratify unclos;


### 4. is concerned about the increasing pollution by plastic and domestic waste and calls for a historic effort to limit and manage them by promoting the circular economy; ### 4. stresses the role of the circular economy in relation to the waste management and considers that a historic effort is needed to limit and manage plastic and domestic waste by the means of the circular economy , in particularly on island territories where space and resources are limited to store and process waste;


### 4. calls for the deployment of a macro-regional strategy at the scale of the entire mediterranean basin , dedicated to climate change mitigation , environmental conservation and the sustainable development of the blue economy; believes that such a strategy could be used more specifically to foster circular economy projects in the fisheries sector; address plastic pollution; protect biodiversity; enhance relations with third countries with respect to illegal , unreported and unregulated fishing; contribute to solving usage conflicts through adequate maritime spatial planning; preserve the socio-economic contribution of fisheries to the well-being of coastal communities , in particular in islands; promote stock management measures across the mediterranean basin; encourage third countries to implement maritime protected areas in their territorial waters; provide for the sustainable economic development of the fisheries and aquaculture sector , in particular with respect to transformation and commercialisation; and support the diversification of fishers’ activities , including retraining and reskilling. ### 4. calls for the deployment of a macro-regional strategy at the scale of the entire mediterranean basin , dedicated to climate change mitigation , environmental conservation and the sustainable development of the blue economy; believes that such a strategy could be used more specifically to foster circular economy projects in the fisheries sector; address plastic pollution; protect biodiversity; enhance relations with third countries with respect to illegal , unreported and unregulated fishing; contribute to solving usage conflicts through adequate maritime spatial planning; preserve the socio-economic contribution of fisheries to the well-being of coastal communities , in particular in islands , as this is already at risk as a result of rising fuel prices and the ensuing increase in fish imported from outside the eu; promote stock management measures across the mediterranean basin; encourage third countries to implement maritime protected areas in their territorial waters; provide for the sustainable economic development of the fisheries and aquaculture sector , in particular with respect to transformation and commercialisation; and support the diversification of fishers’ activities , including retraining and reskilling.


### 4. calls for the deployment of a macro-regional strategy at the scale of the entire mediterranean basin , dedicated to climate change mitigation , environmental conservation and the sustainable development of the blue economy; believes that such a strategy could be used more specifically to foster circular economy projects in the fisheries sector; address plastic pollution; protect biodiversity; enhance relations with third countries with respect to illegal , unreported and unregulated fishing; contribute to solving usage conflicts through adequate maritime spatial planning; preserve the socio-economic contribution of fisheries to the well-being of coastal communities , in particular in islands; promote stock management measures across the mediterranean basin; encourage third countries to implement maritime protected areas in their territorial waters; provide for the sustainable economic development of the fisheries and aquaculture sector , in particular with respect to transformation and commercialisation; and support the diversification of fishers’ activities , including retraining and reskilling. ### 4. calls for the deployment of a macro-regional strategy at the scale of the entire mediterranean basin , dedicated to climate change mitigation , environmental conservation , social well-being and economic growth and the sustainable development of the blue economy; believes that such a strategy could be used more specifically to foster circular economy projects in the fisheries sector; address plastic pollution; protect biodiversity; enhance relations with third countries with respect to illegal , unreported and unregulated fishing; contribute to solving usage conflicts through adequate maritime spatial planning; preserve the socio-economic contribution of fisheries to the well-being of coastal communities , in particular in islands; promote stock management measures across the mediterranean basin; encourage third countries to implement maritime protected areas in their territorial waters; provide for the sustainable economic development of the fisheries and aquaculture sector , in particular with respect to transformation and commercialisation; and support the diversification of fishers’ activities , including retraining and reskilling.


### 8. highlights the potential of all the mediterranean regions for the development of renewable energy sources and for a just and inclusive ecological transition; ### 8. highlights the potential of all the mediterranean regions to contribute to the fundamental transformation towards the most carbon-free economy possible in the years ahead and a just and inclusive ecological transition , in particular by developing and expanding renewable energies , increasing interconnection of energy markets and by cooperating on the production and transportation of renewable hydrogen;


### 8. highlights the potential of all the mediterranean regions for the development of renewable energy sources and for a just and inclusive ecological transition; ### 8. highlights the potential of all the mediterranean regions for the development of renewable energy sources and for a just and inclusive ecological transition , by way of example;


### 9. recalls that overfishing is still a threat to the survival of many species; is convinced that the development of a blue economy can support sustainable and inclusive development and quality jobs; ### 9. recalls that pollution , overfishing and habitat destruction , in conjunction with the adverse effects of climate change , threaten the rich marine biodiversity; is convinced that the transition to a sustainable blue economy in the mediterranean region will contribute to tackling environmental challenges , thus preserving the health of the sea basin and maintaining economic prosperity;


### 11. draws attention to the impacts caused by tourism due to its seasonality and its uncontrolled development (such as cruises , new polluting leisure activities); ### 11. draws attention to the impacts caused by tourism due to its seasonality and its uncontrolled development (such as cruises , new polluting leisure activities); stresses the importance of promoting a responsible approach to tourism , given its economic importance for the region;


### 12. points out that the island territories face economic imbalances linked to the handicaps of insularity , which must be addressed with concrete actions as required by article 174 of the tfeu; ### 12. points out that the island territories face economic imbalances linked to the handicaps of insularity , which must be addressed with concrete actions as required by article 174 of the tfeu , as well as economic , administrative , cultural and social divergences;


### 2. highlights that certain less-developed regions are a long way from uniformly matching the standards of healthcare provision available in more developed parts of the eu , and that convergence in this sense is unlikely to be achieved without help at eu level , particularly through its cohesion policy; ### 2. highlights that certain less-developed regions , particularly rural regions and areas with low population density , are a long way from uniformly matching the standards of healthcare provision available in more developed parts of the eu , and that convergence in this sense is unlikely to be achieved without help at eu level , particularly through its cohesion policy;


### 3. recalls the substantial contribution of cohesion policy to health sector investments in the last programming period (2014-2020) through the esf and the erdf , to the tune of around eur 56 billion , aimed at improving access to services , as well as developing specialised health infrastructure and capacities in order to reduce health inequalities; ### 3. recalls the substantial contribution of cohesion policy to health sector planned investments in the last programming period (2014-2020) through the esf and the erdf , to the tune of around eur 24 billion so far , aimed at improving access to services , as well as developing specialised health infrastructure and capacities in order to reduce health inequalities;


### 4. believes that investments in healthcare innovation , public health and the reduction of health inequalities will continue to offer significant improvements to the daily lives of citizens; ### 4. believes that investments in healthcare innovation , public health and the reduction of health inequalities will continue to offer significant improvements to the daily lives of citizens and increased life expectancy;


### 7. points out that , while evaluating funded structural projects and benchmarks in the context of health , it is necessary to review the subsequent health outcomes of individual projects , to enable their effectiveness and results to be tracked , in order to gauge the extent to which a given project has been successful; ### 7. points out that , while evaluating funded structural projects and benchmarks in the context of health , it is necessary to review the subsequent health outcomes of individual projects , to enable their effectiveness and results to be tracked , in order to gauge the extent to which a given project has been successful with a view to further development of a guide of good practice;


### 11. believes that , in order to overcome the major obstacles that exist in terms of equality of access to healthcare in rural areas , wide use should be made of advanced technologies , such as e-health , as an integral part of the ‘smart villages’ concept11 , with the goal of improving access to healthcare and increasing efficiency and quality; ### 11. believes that , in order to overcome the major obstacles that exist in terms of equality of access to healthcare in rural areas , wide use should be made of advanced technologies , such as e-health , as an integral part of the ‘smart villages’ concept11 , with the goal of improving access to healthcare and increasing efficiency and quality; highlights , in this respect , the need to guarantee high-speed internet access in rural and remote areas , promote digital literacy among all age groups in those areas , and equip their health services with the resources needed to ensure effective online healthcare and store clinical data in a secure and harmonised manner;


### 12. calls for bold cohesion policy measures , in accordance with the legal provisions in force in the eu , in order to attempt to mitigate the lack of healthcare workers in rural areas , and aimed at motivating them to commence or resume practice there; ### 12. calls for bold cohesion policy measures , in accordance with the legal provisions in force in the eu , in order to attempt to mitigate the lack of healthcare workers in rural areas , in particular by helping workers and their families to settle , providing opportunities for continuing vocational training and specialisation , and ensuring good working conditions , and aimed at motivating them to commence or resume practice there;


### 14. calls for the use of cohesion policy funds to improve the working conditions of the health workforce in order to facilitate retention strategies for the healthcare workforce in less-developed regions; ### 14. calls for the use of cohesion policy funds to improve the working conditions of the health workforce in order to facilitate retention strategies for the healthcare workforce in less-developed regions and areas with low population density and less economic wealth;


### 14. calls for the use of cohesion policy funds to improve the working conditions of the health workforce in order to facilitate retention strategies for the healthcare workforce in less-developed regions; ### 14. calls for the use of cohesion policy funds to improve the attractiveness of healthcare to the european and non-european health workforce in order to facilitate strategies to generate interest among the healthcare workforce in less-developed regions;


### 19. calls for projects facilitating cross-border health contracts , whereby patients travel and are treated within the framework of contractual agreements , to be funded; ### 19. calls for projects facilitating cross-border health contracts , whereby patients travel and are treated within the framework of contractual agreements and are free to choose their health professional , to be funded;


### 23. highlights that several interreg projects have contributed to cross-border regions’ fight against covid-19 throughout the eu , for example through the mobility of intensive care patients and healthcare professionals , and the development of medical equipment; ### 23. highlights that several interreg projects have contributed to cross-border regions' fight against the covid-19 all over the eu , for instance through mobility of intensive care patients and healthcare professionals , the provision of medical and personal protective equipment and pcr tests across borders , through exchanges of information , or by offering legal advice;


### b. whereas the digital transformation must be fair and inclusive and promote equality , quality of life , regional competitiveness and the modernisation of the economy; ### b. whereas the digital transformation must be fair and inclusive , create opportunities and promote equality , quality of life , regional competitiveness and the modernisation of the economy;


### d. whereas there is still a digital divide in the eu in terms of geography , age , gender , educational attainment , socio-economic status and income , which prevents some individuals and businesses from reaping the benefits of the digital transformation; ### d. whereas there is still a digital divide in the eu in terms of geography , age , sex , educational attainment , socio-economic status and income , which prevents some individuals and businesses from reaping the benefits of the digital transformation;


### 2. highlights the role that the new cohesion policy can play in advancing the twin digital and green transitions; underlines that the digital and innovation components of the new cohesion policy will be key in enabling a sustainable transformation of society and the economy and reaching the goals of the european green deal; ### 2. highlights the role that the new cohesion policy can play in advancing the twin digital and green transitions; underlines that the digital and innovation components of the new cohesion policy will be key in enabling a sustainable transformation towards a more competitive economy and reaching the goals of the european green deal;


### 6. notes that there is a critical digital skills divide between adults in rural areas and those living in cities , which especially affects those with low incomes , women and the elderly; notes that this divide is particularly marked in certain member states and exacerbates the existing difficulty of finding a job in rural areas; highlights that these gaps are directly linked to a lack of access to high-capacity networks; ### 6. notes that there is a critical digital skills divide between adults in rural areas and those living in cities , which especially affects those with low incomes and the elderly; notes that this divide is particularly marked in certain member states and exacerbates the existing difficulty of finding a job in rural areas; highlights that these gaps are linked to a lack of access to high-capacity networks , among other causes;


### 7. calls on the member states to use cohesion policy resources to roll out smart villages post-2020 , which will contribute to the digitalisation of rural areas; ### 7. calls on the member states to use cohesion policy resources to roll out smart villages post-2020 , which will contribute to the digitalisation of rural areas and the application of digital and robotic technologies in agriculture; stresses that the transition to sustainable agriculture , a goal for the 2030s , can be achieved through the promotion of new technologies , research and innovation and the ongoing transfer of knowledge to the countryside;


### 7. calls on the member states to use cohesion policy resources to roll out smart villages post-2020 , which will contribute to the digitalisation of rural areas; ### 7. calls on the member states to use the resources of cohesion policy , common agricultural policy , as well as the nextgenerationeu recovery instrument , to roll out smart villages post-2020 , which will contribute to the digitalisation of rural areas;


### 8. urges the member states to use the financial resources available through both the erdf-cf and the nextgenerationeu recovery instrument to the fullest extent possible to give regions that are lagging behind the targeted support that they need to overcome the digital divide; ### 8. urges the member states to use the financial resources available through both the erdf-cf and the nextgenerationeu recovery instrument to the fullest extent possible to give regions that are lagging behind the targeted support that they need to overcome the digital divide , including support for the roll-out of very high capacity networks through adequate public funding schemes in areas not served by the market;


### 8. urges the member states to use the financial resources available through both the erdf-cf and the nextgenerationeu recovery instrument to the fullest extent possible to give regions that are lagging behind the targeted support that they need to overcome the digital divide; ### 8. urges the member states to use the financial resources available through both the erdf-cf and the nextgenerationeu recovery instrument to the fullest extent possible to give regions that are lagging behind the targeted support that they need to overcome the digital divide by providing cross-sectoral and comprehensive solutions , for instance smart villages and rural innovation hubs;


### 8. urges the member states to use the financial resources available through both the erdf-cf and the nextgenerationeu recovery instrument to the fullest extent possible to give regions that are lagging behind the targeted support that they need to overcome the digital divide; ### 8. urges the member states to use the financial resources available through both the erdf-cf and the nextgenerationeu recovery instrument to the fullest extent and most efficient manner possible to give regions that are lagging behind the targeted support that they need to overcome the digital divide;


### 9. stresses the need for a socially fair and inclusive digitalisation process that leaves no one behind; underlines that support under the erdf-cf should contribute to an inclusive digital society; ### 9. stresses the need for a socially fair and inclusive digitalisation process that creates opportunities for ordinary people while leaving no one behind;


### 10. notes with concern that the expanded use of digital solutions and tictm as a result of the covid-19 pandemic has aggravated the pre-existing inequalities caused by digital divides across population groups; stresses , however , that digitalisation has the potential to benefit vulnerable groups; ### 10. notes with concern that the expanded use of digital solutions and tictm as a result of the covid-19 pandemic has aggravated the pre-existing inequalities caused by digital divides across population groups; stresses , however , that digitalisation has the potential to benefit vulnerable groups; underlines that smart villages in particular could serve as a practical solution tool that is able to dramatically increase services offered in rural areas and thereby decrease existing inequalities;


### 11. asks the commission and the member states to develop a global strategy , that integrates a gender perspective across all levels in order to tackle social inequalities associated with digitalisation , with a view to enhancing its positive effects; ### 11. asks the commission and the member states to develop a global strategy across all levels in order to tackle social inequalities associated with digitalisation , with a view to enhancing its positive effects;


### 12. calls for a follow-up to the egovernment action plan that will ensure the efficient digital transformation of public administrations and services in all member states and establish measures to increase digital skills for public sector workers; ### 12. calls for a follow-up to the egovernment action plan that will ensure the efficient digital transformation and cut red tape , with processes that improve public access to services in all member states and boost transparency , and establish measures to increase digital skills for public sector workers;


### 13. notes that the covid-19 pandemic has accelerated the rise of e-health solutions; warns that some people , such as the elderly or socially disadvantaged , who may be less able to use or afford the necessary technologies , may be left behind; ### 13. notes that the covid-19 pandemic has accelerated the rise of e-health solutions; warns that some people , such as the elderly or socially disadvantaged , who may be less able to use or afford the necessary technologies , may be left behind; stresses in this connection the need to unlock the full potential of new digital tools , technologies and solutions for a healthy society;


### 14. underlines the crucial role of small and medium-sized enterprises (smes) in creating decent jobs , sustainable growth and rural development and believes that public investments through cohesion policy and other instruments will contribute to better social , economic and territorial cohesion in all eu regions; highlights that different types of smes require different types of support and incentives at the eu , national , regional and local levels , depending on their circumstances and level of technology adoption; ### 14. underlines the crucial role of entrepreneurs and small and medium-sized enterprises (smes) in creating decent jobs , sustainable growth and rural development and believes that public investments through cohesion policy and other instruments will contribute to better social , economic and territorial cohesion in all eu regions; highlights that different types of smes require different types of support and incentives at the eu , national , regional and local levels , depending on their circumstances and level of technology adoption;


### 17. notes a critical digital skills divide between adults residing in rural areas and those living in cities; notes , furthermore , the disproportionate prevalence of tictm among city-based , well-educated , service sector employees with strong digital skills; ### 17. notes a critical digital skills divide between adults residing in rural areas and those living in cities; notes , furthermore , the disproportionate prevalence of tictm among city-based , well-educated , service sector employees with strong digital skills; notes that smart villages could serve as a practical solution , because they incorporate digital learning instruments in the digital bottom-up approach they apply;


### 18. underlines that e-skills play an essential role in fostering technological diversification , especially in less-developed regions; ### 18. underlines that e-skills play an essential role in fostering technological diversification and creating employment opportunities , especially in less-developed regions;


### a. whereas population distribution at local , regional and eu level , as well as its stability or change , has direct impacts on the social , economic and territorial cohesion of the eu; ### a. whereas population distribution at local , regional and eu level , as well as its stability or change , has very different dynamics in the different territories of the union , with direct impacts on its social , economic and territorial cohesion;


### c. whereas , although the eu population has seen substantial growth in previous decades , the growth rate is now falling and the population is expected to decrease in the longer term; whereas europe will account for less than 4 % of the world’s population by 2070 , and long-term demographic trends in european regions indicate lower birth rates and ageing societies; ### c. whereas , although the eu population has seen substantial growth in previous decades , the growth rate is now falling and the population is expected to decrease in the longer term; whereas in 2015 the eu has experienced the first natural population decline with more deaths than births; whereas europe will account for less than 4 % of the world’s population by 2070 , and long-term demographic trends in european regions indicate lower birth rates and ageing societies;


### c. whereas , although the eu population has seen substantial growth in previous decades , the growth rate is now falling and the population is expected to decrease in the longer term; whereas europe will account for less than 4 % of the world’s population by 2070 , and long-term demographic trends in european regions indicate lower birth rates and ageing societies; ### c. whereas , although the eu population has seen substantial growth in previous decades , the growth rate is now falling and the population is expected to decrease significantly in the longer term (by 2070 europe’s population will have decreased by a twentieth); whereas europe will account for less than 4 % of the world’s population by 2070 , and long-term demographic trends in european regions indicate lower birth rates and ageing societies;


### 1. underlines that the free movement of labour represents a cornerstone of eu competitiveness; notes , nevertheless , that it affects demographics , which has major implications for eu regions and their economic , social and territorial cohesion; ### 1. underlines that the free movement of labour represents a cornerstone of eu competitiveness; notes , nevertheless , that it affects demographics , which has major implications for eu regions and their economic , social and territorial cohesion; the reversal of current demographic trends in european territories should be a priority for the european union , alongside the dual objective of accelerating the climate and digital transition;


### 2. stresses that the ongoing depopulation of rural areas is not only having serious economic and social consequences but also hampering our chances of achieving the green deal’s ambitious objectives; ### 2. stresses that the ongoing depopulation of rural areas is not only having serious economic and social consequences but also hampering our chances of achieving the green deal’s ambitious objectives; insists that the investments covered by the green deal should take the demographic factor into account;


### 3. urges the commission , in developing the farm to fork and biodiversity strategies , to take practical steps to maintain the rural population; ### 3. urges the commission , in developing the farm to fork and biodiversity strategies , to take practical steps to maintain the rural population in order to safeguard existing jobs and create new jobs and also to attract skilled workers , especially in structurally weaker regions;


### 3. urges the commission , in developing the farm to fork and biodiversity strategies , to take practical steps to maintain the rural population; ### 3. urges the commission , in developing the farm to fork and biodiversity strategies , to take practical steps to maintain the rural population in particular through the revaluation of agricultural activities in our regions;


### 3. urges the commission , in developing the farm to fork and biodiversity strategies , to take practical steps to maintain the rural population; ### 3. urges the commission , in developing the farm to fork and biodiversity strategies , to take practical steps to develop short supply chains and help to maintain the rural population;


### 4. points out that europe is manifestly experiencing population ageing , affecting the dependency ratio and having negative effects on workforce growth , which is far behind the previous decade; warns of a visible decline of the labour force in eastern , southern and central european regions; ### 4. points out that europe is manifestly experiencing population ageing , affecting the dependency ratio and having negative effects on workforce growth , which is far behind the previous decade; warns of a visible decline of the labour force in eastern , southern and central european regions; recognises that , without creating the conditions for growth of the birth rate within both the union and the member states , the measures proposed below are only a solution to the consequences , but not the cause , of negative demographic trends;


### 4. supports innovation and digitisation with a view to promoting a vibrant , dynamic rural environment; calls on the commission to draw on the smart cities and towns initiatives to develop a new instrument to support start-ups in rural areas , thereby also boosting their economic and productive fabric; ### 4. supports innovation and digitisation with a view to promoting a vibrant , dynamic rural environment; calls on the commission to draw on the smart cities and towns initiatives to develop a new instrument to support start-ups in rural areas , thereby also boosting their economic and productive fabric; emphasises that the local action groups have made a significant contribution to strengthening interactions between economic sectors in rural areas and have helped considerably in the implementation of rural development policies;


### 4. supports innovation and digitisation with a view to promoting a vibrant , dynamic rural environment; calls on the commission to draw on the smart cities and towns initiatives to develop a new instrument to support start-ups in rural areas , thereby also boosting their economic and productive fabric; ### 4. supports innovation and digitisation with a view to promoting a vibrant , dynamic rural environment; calls on the commission to draw on the smart cities and towns initiatives to develop a new instrument to support start-ups in rural areas , thereby also boosting their socio-economic and productive fabric;


### 8. stresses that this lack of diversification in the regional economic structure of certain regions risks creating a negative ‘label’ , also among their inhabitants , manifesting dissatisfaction with the quality of life and the facilities and services at their disposal; highlights in this context the brain drain effect , leading to the emigration of highly trained and qualified people from a particular region or country to another; points out , in particular , that the ‘exodus’ of medical staff such as doctors and nurses and teaching staff has led to a deterioration in the quality of medical care and education , making it difficult , especially in rural areas , to access high-quality care and education; ### 8. stresses that this lack of diversification in the regional economic structure of certain regions risks creating a negative ‘label’ , also among their inhabitants , manifesting dissatisfaction with the quality of life and the facilities and services at their disposal; highlights in this context the brain drain effect , leading to the emigration of highly trained and qualified people from a particular region or country to another; points out , in particular , that the ‘exodus’ of medical staff such as doctors and nurses and teaching staff has led to a deterioration in the quality of medical care and education , making it difficult , especially in remote rural areas and in the outermost regions , to access high-quality care and education;


### 14. underlines , on the other hand , that overconcentration of the population in certain urban areas has already led to side-effects , such as congestion , rising housing and transport costs , pollution , deterioration of the quality of life , and urban sprawl , as well as a significant risk of poverty and social exclusion for certain segments of the population , and thus local authorities being unable to provide services to all residents of urban areas; ### 14. underlines , on the other hand , that overconcentration of the population in certain urban areas has already led to side-effects , such as congestion , rising housing and transport costs , pollution , deterioration of the quality of life , and urban sprawl , as well as a significant risk of poverty and social exclusion for certain segments of the population , and thus local authorities being unable to provide services to all residents of urban areas; warns of some of the negative effects of high population concentration in urban areas on public health in the context of the covid-19 pandemic;


### 19. stresses that the covid-19 health crisis has affected all member states and regions to different extents , and is likely to lead to new trends as regards demographic flows; recalls in this context that the additional resources provided through react-eu in order to ensure a sound and robust recovery of the eu’s economy from the crisis could significantly help to keep people in employment , including through support for small and medium-size enterprises and for short-time work schemes and the self-employed; ### 19. stresses that the covid-19 health crisis has affected all member states and regions to different extents , and is likely to lead to new trends as regards demographic flows; recalls in this context that the additional resources provided through react-eu in order to ensure a sound and robust recovery of the eu’s economy from the crisis could significantly help to keep people in employment , including through support for small and medium-size enterprises and for short-time work schemes and the self-employed; underlines that such support must be granted in a non-discriminatory basis;


### 20. recalls that the recovery and resilience facility will provide large-scale financial support to make member states’ economies more resilient and better prepared for the future , and insists that member states should propose measures for addressing demographic change; highlights the importance of the instruments for a transition to sustainability such as the just transition fund and its implementation mechanism , which aim to support the communities affected by the energy transition and avoid the risk of depopulation; ### 20. recalls that the recovery and resilience facility will provide large-scale financial support to make member states’ economies more resilient and better prepared for the future , and insists that member states should examine , in line with their specific circumstances , the possibility of proposing measures for addressing demographic change in their national recovery and resilience plans; considers that local and regional bodies must be actively involved in drawing up these plans , as this is an area of particular importance when evaluating the plans , and subsequently in their management by member states; highlights the importance of the instruments for a transition to sustainability such as the just transition fund and its implementation mechanism , which aim to support the communities affected by the energy transition and avoid the risk of depopulation;


### 22. calls on the member states to conduct the programming and implementation process of the 2021-2027 cohesion policy with full respect for the partnership principle; stresses the importance of prioritising regional needs , including as regards demographic and migration aspects and urban challenges; ### 22. calls on the member states to conduct the programming and implementation process of the 2021- -2027 cohesion policy with full respect for the partnership principle; stresses the importance of prioritising regional and sub-regional needs , including as regards demographic and migration aspects and territorial challenges (urban and rural); stresses the importance , in this area , of putting in place strategies that are integrated in functional and territorial terms , tailored to each region and involving regional and local authorities , social partners , relevant civil society actors and other stakeholders; these strategies should be accompanied by territorial and demographic impact assessments , conducted in parallel with economic , environmental and social assessments;


### 22. calls on the member states to conduct the programming and implementation process of the 2021-2027 cohesion policy with full respect for the partnership principle; stresses the importance of prioritising regional needs , including as regards demographic and migration aspects and urban challenges; ### 22. calls on the member states to conduct the programming and implementation process of the 2021-2027 cohesion policy with full respect for the partnership principle and to take account of particular needs of the regions with demographic handicaps in their partnership agreements; stresses the importance of prioritising regional needs , including as regards demographic and migration aspects and urban challenges;


### 22. calls on the member states to conduct the programming and implementation process of the 2021-2027 cohesion policy with full respect for the partnership principle; stresses the importance of prioritising regional needs , including as regards demographic and migration aspects and urban challenges; ### 22. calls on the member states to conduct the programming and implementation process of the 2021-2027 cohesion policy with full respect for the partnership principle , which , unfortunately , has not yet been sufficiently implemented in some respects; stresses the importance of prioritising regional needs , including as regards demographic and migration aspects and urban challenges;


### 23. calls on the member state to include demographic challenges in their national development policies and long-term strategies for sustainable development correlated with the european semester , thus ensuring proper financing for demographic issues; ### 23. calls on the member state to include demographic challenges in their national recovery and resilience plans , their national development policies and long-term strategies for sustainable development correlated with the european semester , thus ensuring proper financing for demographic issues;


### 24. calls on the regions at risk of depopulation to focus investments on universal accessibility to quality services and infrastructure and job creation; insists on investment in education , reskilling of workers , creating entrepreneurial conditions and supporting smes; ### 24. calls on the regions at risk of depopulation to focus investments on universal accessibility to quality services and infrastructure and job creation , reskilling of workers , creating entrepreneurial conditions and supporting smes; considers investment in all levels of education and in lifelong learning to be a priority , particularly in rural areas and the outermost regions , to encourage young people to remain in these regions and to tackle early school leaving , offering them attractive education , training , upskilling and reskilling options at local and regional level , including digital skills , through classroom or distance learning , to encourage them to pursue their studies in these regions;


### 24. calls on the regions at risk of depopulation to focus investments on universal accessibility to quality services and infrastructure and job creation; insists on investment in education , reskilling of workers , creating entrepreneurial conditions and supporting smes; ### 24. calls on the regions at risk of depopulation to focus investments on universal accessibility to quality services and infrastructure , with the participation of smes and service management businesses , and job creation; insists on investment in education , scholarships , school transport , the expansion of the early childhood education network for children aged 0 to 3 , reskilling of workers , creating entrepreneurial conditions and supporting smes;


### 24. calls on the regions at risk of depopulation to focus investments on universal accessibility to quality services and infrastructure and job creation; insists on investment in education , reskilling of workers , creating entrepreneurial conditions and supporting smes; ### 24. calls on the regions at risk of depopulation to focus investments on universal accessibility to quality services and infrastructure and job creation; insists on investment in education , reskilling of workers , creating entrepreneurial conditions and supporting smes; understands that the regions will need the concentrated support of the union and the member states in this endeavour;


### 24. calls on the regions at risk of depopulation to focus investments on universal accessibility to quality services and infrastructure and job creation; insists on investment in education , reskilling of workers , creating entrepreneurial conditions and supporting smes; ### 24. calls on the regions at risk of depopulation to focus investments on universal accessibility to quality services and infrastructure and job creation; insists on investment in education , upskilling and reskilling of workers , creating entrepreneurial conditions and supporting smes;


### 25. considers it appropriate to involve regional and local authorities in long-term cooperative governance and planning initiatives at various levels; asks the commission and the member states to disseminate good practices on the use and benefits of this type of governance and of planning tools to support polycentric development; ### 25. considers it appropriate to involve regional and local authorities in long-term cooperative governance and planning initiatives at various levels; asks the commission and the member states to disseminate good practices on the use and benefits of this type of governance and of planning tools to support polycentric development; in that regard , expresses its concern that the planning and management of the recovery and resilience facility might be carried out in a centralised way by member states without active and genuine participation by the regions , in contrast to what has historically been the case with the structural and investment funds and cohesion policies.


### 26. encourages policymakers at regional and national level to invest in the knowledge economy , as well as in providing services and incentives , to maintain high-skilled workers and to develop research centres in the different regions; ### 26. encourages policymakers at regional and national level to invest in the knowledge economy , as well as in providing services and incentives , to maintain high-skilled workers and to develop research centres in the different regions , as well as making use of the funds in the recovery and resilience facility;


### 26. encourages policymakers at regional and national level to invest in the knowledge economy , as well as in providing services and incentives , to maintain high-skilled workers and to develop research centres in the different regions; ### 26. encourages policymakers at regional and national level to invest in the knowledge economy , as well as in providing resources , services and incentives , to maintain high-skilled workers and to develop research centres in the different regions;


### 27. recommends developing the so-called ‘oasis strategies’ focusing on the most successful , vibrant and growing sectors , by exploiting the local potential for development of the region; calls on the local and regional authorities to focus on attracting young , trained and talented workers , encouraging entrepreneurship , using local , national and eu incentives; underlines the role of the ‘silver economy’ as a policy shift for rural areas , turning the issue of population ageing into an opportunity for the development of rural areas; ### 27. recommends developing the so-called ‘oasis strategies’ focusing on the most successful , vibrant and growing sectors , by exploiting the local potential for development of the region; calls on the local and regional authorities to focus on attracting young , trained and talented workers , encouraging entrepreneurship , using local , national and eu incentives; further underlines the importance of promoting measures to foster solidarity between generations , active ageing and the opportunities offered by the so-called ‘silver economy’ , as a major policy shift for rural areas , turning the issue of population ageing into an opportunity for the development of rural areas;


### 30. insists that investments should be focused on information and communication technology , since this has the potential to reduce the distance between the users and to attract high-skilled workers; stresses the importance of funding the development and uptake of these technologies among companies and schools in rural and isolated regions and regions in industrial transition; ### 30. insists that investments should be focused on information and communication technology , since this has the potential to reduce the distance between the users and to attract high-skilled workers; stresses the importance of funding the development and uptake of these technologies among companies and schools in rural and isolated regions and regions in industrial transition , including through funds from the recovery and resilience facility;


### 32. considers that municipalities should promote ‘open innovation’ initiatives , making use of the knowledge to accelerate the innovation process and to develop a collaborative approach with relevant partners and stakeholders with a view to creating innovation ecosystems; ### 32. considers that municipalities should promote ‘open innovation’ initiatives , making use of the knowledge to accelerate the innovation process and to develop a collaborative approach with relevant partners and stakeholders with a view to creating regional innovation ecosystems;


### 33. recommends , where appropriate , the reform of education and training systems in the member states , combined with policies to prevent a permanent brain drain from the ‘sending’ regions; insists on using local at regional advantages , as well as the development of economic and social facilities , not only to prevent the brain drain , but also to reverse this phenomenon; ### 33. recommends , where appropriate , the reform of education and training systems in the member states , combined with policies to prevent a permanent brain drain from the ‘sending’ regions; insists on using local at regional advantages , as well as the development of economic and social facilities , not only to prevent the brain drain , but also to reverse this phenomenon; considers that the reverse brain drain to the ‘sending’ regions represents a potential that those regions must utilise systematically;


### 34. calls on the commission to ensure that the initiative on the long-term vision for rural areas includes practical solution and means of support to address demographic changes; invites the commission , in agreement with the member states , to propose a ‘new deal’ on demographics in the eu as a multi-level policy approach; ### 34. calls on the commission to ensure that the initiative on the long-term vision for rural areas includes practical solution and means of support to address demographic changes; believes that this long-term vision for rural areas must develop into a true european ‘rural agenda’ , with tangible and concrete objectives , and the involvement of all relevant regional and local actors , both in its architecture and its implementation; invites the commission , in agreement with the member states , to propose a ‘new deal’ on demographics in the eu as a multi-level policy approach;


### 34. calls on the commission to ensure that the initiative on the long-term vision for rural areas includes practical solution and means of support to address demographic changes; invites the commission , in agreement with the member states , to propose a ‘new deal’ on demographics in the eu as a multi-level policy approach; ### 34. calls on the commission to ensure that the initiative on the long-term vision for rural areas includes practical solution and means of support to address demographic changes; invites the commission , in agreement with the member states and local and regional authorities , to propose a ‘new deal’ on demographics in the eu as a multi-level policy approach;


### 35. instructs its president to forward this resolution to the council and the commission. ### 35. instructs its president to forward this resolution to the council , the commission , the european economic and social committee , the committee of the regions and the national and regional parliaments of the member states.


### a. whereas the outermost regions (ors) are connected to three member states (spain , france and portugal) and whereas they currently number nine , spread across two oceans (the atlantic and indian oceans) , with more than 4.8 million inhabitants; ### a. whereas the outermost regions (ors) are connected to three member states and whereas they currently number nine (french guiana , guadeloupe , mayotte , martinique and saint martin (france) , the azores and madeira (portugal) and the canary islands (spain)) , spread across two oceans (the atlantic and indian oceans) , with more than 4.8 million inhabitants;


### b. whereas there are concerns about the long-term social , economic , environmental and cultural consequences on the ors of the covid-19 crisis and brexit , and whereas these crises legitimately reinforce the demand that article 349 tfeu , which provides for a special status for the ors , be applied and complied with; ### b. whereas there are concerns that the current covid-19 crisis has exposed the already vulnerable or economies and whereas , given the long-term social , economic , environmental and cultural consequences of this crisis and brexit , these crises legitimately reinforce the demand that article 349 tfeu , which provides for a special status for the ors , be applied and complied with;


### 3. notes with satisfaction the extension and maintenance until 2027 of several tax derogations for the ors (aiem , dock dues , etc.) , and recalls the importance of maintaining the arrangements based on article 349 tfeu for the ors , which must reconcile the twin imperatives of protecting local production and tackling the high cost of living; ### 3. notes with satisfaction the extension and maintenance until 2027 of several tax derogations for the ors (aiem , dock dues , reduced tax rates on liqueurs , rum and eaux-de-vie from the azores and madeira , etc.) , and recalls the importance of maintaining the arrangements based on article 349 tfeu for the ors , which must reconcile the twin imperatives of protecting local production and tackling the high cost of living;


### 6. calls on the commission , in line with its role as ‘guardian of the treaties’ , to make the or unit in dg regio the ‘guardian of the correct application of article 349 tfeu’ , and to consider setting up a fully-fledged directorate directly linked to ‘or correspondents’ in the other directorates-general; ### 6. calls on the commission , in line with its role as ‘guardian of the treaties’ , to make the or unit in dg regio the ‘guardian of the correct application of article 349 tfeu’ , and to consider setting up a fully-fledged directorate directly linked to ‘or correspondents’ in the other directorates-general , as well as a high-level inter-service group under the authority of the president of the commission , given that , in order to adopt specific measures for the ors , political impetus is needed;


### 8. calls for the establishment of a new communication strategy which would , in particular , involve young people and inform them about the opportunities offered by the eu and raise their awareness of the usefulness of europe in their daily lives; calls for a commission office to be set up in each or; ### 8. calls for the establishment of a new communication strategy which would , in particular , involve young people and inform them about the opportunities offered by the eu and raise their awareness of the usefulness of europe in their daily lives; calls for a commission office to be set up in each or , taking into account the archipelagic nature of many of these regions and their multiple (and geographically separated) territories;


### 11. calls on the commission to help build a new strategy for the ors based on respect for their specific characteristics , consolidation of what has been achieved and optimisation of existing arrangements , innovation and an appreciation of the ors as ‘territories offering solutions’; ### 11. calls on the commission to help build a new strategy for the ors , based on respect for their specific characteristics , consolidation of what has been achieved and optimisation of existing arrangements , innovation and an appreciation of the ors as ‘territories offering solutions’ , which responds to their concerns and reflects the recommendations made by the european parliament; recommends that an action plan be defined , in collaboration with the regional and local authorities , for this new strategic partnership;


### investing in the battle for jobs , harnessing the potential of the territories and focusing on youth ### investing in jobs , harnessing the potential of the territories and focusing on youth


### 12. recognises that the ors offer opportunities for the union in the face of socio‑economic and climate challenges , but that taking advantage of those opportunities will require accelerating the process of making up for underdevelopment linked to structural handicaps; ### 12. recognises that the ors offer opportunities for the union in the face of socio‑economic and climate challenges , but that taking advantage of those opportunities will require accelerating the process of making up for underdevelopment linked to structural handicaps , and consolidating and ring-fencing the resources used to compensate for the structural handicaps resulting from remoteness and insularity , which are vital tools for helping the ors to become fully and fairly integrated within the european area;


### 13. calls on the commission and the member states to invest in the ors and to make the fight against poverty and unemployment the priorities of european solidarity , while investing in future projects focusing on innovation and reskilling; ### 13. calls on the commission and the member states to invest in the ors and to make the fight against poverty , social exclusion and unemployment the priorities of european solidarity , while investing in future projects focusing on innovation and reskilling;


### 14. reiterates the fact that in the ors the strength of youth is a major asset which is often insufficiently valued and that it should be a priority for building tangible solutions through the large-scale mobilisation of eu funding for education , training and support for young people; ### 14. reiterates the fact that in the ors the strength of youth is a major asset which is often insufficiently valued and that it should be a priority for building tangible solutions through the large-scale mobilisation of eu funding for education , training and support for young people , and that it is therefore important to offer full support for mobility and exchange in the ors within the erasmus+ programme , as well as increased funding , including within the discovereu initiatives;


### 15. stresses the need to encourage local initiatives by supporting vsmes , smes and the tourism , craft , building and construction , and digital sectors; ### 15. stresses the need to encourage local initiatives by supporting all manufacturing companies in the ors , regardless of their size , and the tourism , craft , industrial , building and construction , and digital sectors , as well as vsmes and smes;


### agricultural and fisheries policy and the green and blue economy ### agricultural policy and the green economy


### 16. calls for the specific measures under the cap through the posei scheme and within the emfaf to be strengthened in order to achieve the objective of food autonomy and to support green and blue growth in the ors; ### 16. calls for the financial allocations under the cap for the posei scheme to be increased , in order to achieve the objective of food autonomy and support the green growth of the ors , as the current amount allocated to this scheme is not sufficient to meet local needs or enable agriculture in the ors to contribute to a green , digital and inclusive transition; points out , in this respect , that the posei amounts have not been adjusted for inflation , unlike the other payments under the cap;


### 17. reaffirms the need to make professions connected with agriculture , livestock farming , fisheries and the environment in the ors more attractive on account of their structural importance in economic , social and environmental terms; ### 17. reaffirms the need to make professions connected with agriculture , livestock farming , fisheries and the sea , and the environment in the ors more attractive , particularly to young people , on account of their structural importance in economic , social and environmental terms;


### 18. welcomes the fact that the green deal takes into account the exceptional potential of the ors; ### 18. welcomes the fact that the green deal takes into account the exceptional potential of the ors , but points out that the starting positions of these regions mean that the eu’s legislative framework must take account of their particular circumstances and , if necessary , grant derogations and financial and technical incentives;


### 26. considers that , with the need to ensure a form of territorial continuity , derogations for the ors should be envisaged in the co2 quota trading scheme for both maritime and air transport; ### 26. considers that , with the need to ensure a form of territorial continuity , derogations for the ors should be envisaged in the co2 quota trading scheme for both maritime and air transport , and , if necessary , financial and technical incentives;


### 28. calls on the commission to ensure that the ors benefit fully from international agreements (epas , ftas , etc.) concluded between the eu and third countries; calls for vigilance with regard to the consequences of these agreements and recommends that effective measures be put in place as part of trade policy , including safeguard clauses and specific checks by the chief trade enforcement officer , while ensuring that the principle of ‘equivalence’ does not lead to situations which discriminate against the ors; ### 28. calls on the commission to ensure that the ors benefit fully from international agreements (epas , ftas , etc.) concluded between the eu and third countries; calls for differentiated treatment of or products in all epa and fta renegotiations; calls for vigilance with regard to the consequences of these agreements and recommends that effective measures be put in place as part of trade policy , including specific checks by the chief trade enforcement officer , while imposing the principle of ‘conformity’ on imports from third countries , particularly organic products;


### 28. calls on the commission to ensure that the ors benefit fully from international agreements (epas , ftas , etc.) concluded between the eu and third countries; calls for vigilance with regard to the consequences of these agreements and recommends that effective measures be put in place as part of trade policy , including safeguard clauses and specific checks by the chief trade enforcement officer , while ensuring that the principle of ‘equivalence’ does not lead to situations which discriminate against the ors; ### 28. calls on the commission to ensure that the ors benefit fully from international agreements (epas , ftas , etc.) concluded between the eu and third countries; calls for vigilance with regard to the consequences of these agreements and recommends that effective measures be put in place as part of trade policy , including efficient and operational safeguard clauses and specific checks by the chief trade enforcement officer , while ensuring that the principle of ‘equivalence’ does not lead to situations which discriminate against the ors;


### 28. calls on the commission to ensure that the ors benefit fully from international agreements (epas , ftas , etc.) concluded between the eu and third countries; calls for vigilance with regard to the consequences of these agreements and recommends that effective measures be put in place as part of trade policy , including safeguard clauses and specific checks by the chief trade enforcement officer , while ensuring that the principle of ‘equivalence’ does not lead to situations which discriminate against the ors; ### 28. calls on the commission to ensure that the ors benefit fully from international agreements (epas , ftas , etc.) concluded between the eu and third countries; calls for vigilance with regard to the consequences of these agreements and recommends that effective measures be put in place as part of trade policy , including safeguard clauses and specific checks by the chief trade enforcement officer , to prevent situations which discriminate against the ors;


### 1. recalls that articles 174 and 349 tfeu recognise insularity as a permanent structural handicap and stipulate that the union must pay particular attention to these regions; ### 1. recalls that articles 174 and 349 tfeu recognise insularity as a permanent structural handicap and stipulate that the union must pay particular attention to these regions; stresses , however , that the outermost nature of the islands in the regions covered by article 349 tfeu distinguishes them from other islands of the european union;


### 5. highlights the deficit in terms of population , raw materials and resources of all kinds , and notes that in many islands access to drinking water is a central issue in people’s lives , the sustainability of the island and its tourism carrying capacity; ### 5. highlights the deficit in terms of population , raw materials and resources of all kinds , and notes that in many islands access to drinking water is a central issue in people’s lives , the sustainability of the island and its tourism carrying capacity; recalls that desalinization is often costly and not effective to provide the entire water supply.


### 5. highlights the deficit in terms of population , raw materials and resources of all kinds , and notes that in many islands access to drinking water is a central issue in people’s lives , the sustainability of the island and its tourism carrying capacity; ### 5. highlights the deficit in terms of population , raw materials and resources of all kinds , and notes that in many islands access to drinking water , sanitation is a central issue in people’s lives , the sustainability of the island and its tourism carrying capacity;


### 7. stresses that island economies are oriented towards the primary and tertiary sectors and that hyper-specialisation weakens the economic fabric by making it more vulnerable to economic slowdowns; is concerned about long-term developments which in many eu islands can create an economy that is based solely on tourism; ### 7. stresses that island economies are oriented towards the primary and tertiary sectors and that hyper-specialisation weakens the economic fabric by making it more vulnerable to economic slowdowns; is concerned about long-term developments which in many eu islands can create an economy that is based solely on tourism , which lead to seasonal vulnerabilities such as overtourismin summer , followed by a lack of financial resources during winter;


### 12. stresses the increasingly precarious condition of all islands in terms of their environmental assets , particularly water resources; calls , in this context , on the commission to adopt a common water management policy for islands; recalls also the challenges connected with waste management in island territories and the strategic role of the circular economy; ### 12. stresses the increasingly precarious condition of all islands in terms of their environmental assets , particularly water resources; calls , in this context , on the commission to adopt a common water management policy for islands; recalls also the challenges connected with waste management in island territories , which have limited resources to store and process waste , particularly in high touristic seasons during which the waste production is increased , and the strategic role of the circular economy;


### 14. considers the use of renewable energy to be a priority and believes it could bring substantial benefits to islands; calls , therefore , for the development of a wide range of renewable energy to be supported; welcomes the green hydrogen programmes which islands have launched; ### 14. considers the use of renewable energy should be a priority , which bring substantial benefits but at the same time preserves islands' traditional architecture and local habitat; calls , therefore , for the development of a wide range of renewable energy to be supported; welcomes the green hydrogen programmes which islands have launched;


### 14. considers the use of renewable energy to be a priority and believes it could bring substantial benefits to islands; calls , therefore , for the development of a wide range of renewable energy to be supported; welcomes the green hydrogen programmes which islands have launched; ### 14. considers the use of renewable energy to be a priority and believes that tidal energy in particular could bring substantial benefits to islands; calls , therefore , for the development of a wide range of renewable energy to be supported; welcomes the green hydrogen programmes which islands have launched;


### 17. calls for urgent measures to counteract the depopulation of islands and to improve quality of life , support local businesses and protect jobs; calls also for the development of professional training and employment establishments for island inhabitants to be promoted; ### 17. calls for urgent measures to counteract the depopulation of islands and to improve quality of life , support local businesses and protect jobs; calls also for the development of professional training and employment establishments for island inhabitants to be promoted; stresses the importance of providing support to encourage the establishment of healthcare professionals , particularly in the most remote island territories;


### 17. calls for urgent measures to counteract the depopulation of islands and to improve quality of life , support local businesses and protect jobs; calls also for the development of professional training and employment establishments for island inhabitants to be promoted; ### 17. calls for urgent measures to counteract the depopulation of islands and to improve quality of life , support local businesses and protect jobs; calls also for the development of professional training , upskilling and employment establishments for island inhabitants to be promoted;


### 18. stresses the need for increased support for island agriculture and aquaculture , sustainable fisheries , crafts and the blue economy , including through european cooperation programmes; calls on the commission to draw up a regulation laying down specific measures in the area of agriculture for all nuts 2 and nuts 3 level islands with a view to achieving food autonomy and increasing the competitiveness of their products; ### 18. stresses the need for increased support for island agriculture and aquaculture , sustainable fisheries , crafts , smes and the blue economy , including through european cooperation programmes; calls on the commission to draw up a regulation laying down specific measures in the area of agriculture for all nuts 2 and nuts 3 level islands with a view to achieving food autonomy and increasing the competitiveness of their products;


### 18. stresses the need for increased support for island agriculture and aquaculture , sustainable fisheries , crafts and the blue economy , including through european cooperation programmes; calls on the commission to draw up a regulation laying down specific measures in the area of agriculture for all nuts 2 and nuts 3 level islands with a view to achieving food autonomy and increasing the competitiveness of their products; ### 18. stresses the need for increased support for sustainable island agriculture and aquaculture , fisheries , crafts and the blue economy , including through european cooperation programmes; calls on the commission to draw up a regulation laying down specific measures in the area of agriculture for all nuts 2 and nuts 3 level islands with a view to achieving food autonomy and increasing the competitiveness of their products;


### 22. stresses the need to ensure the territorial continuity of all islands through maritime and air transport and to ensure the safety and suitability of land bridges and road links; calls on the commission to ensure that the 2021-2023 work programme of the connecting europe facility contributes to the territorial accessibility of islands; ### 22. stresses the need to ensure the territorial continuity of all islands through maritime and air transport and to ensure the safety and suitability of land bridges and road links; calls on the commission to ensure that the 2021-2023 work programme of the connecting europe facility and european cooperation programmes contributes to the territorial accessibility of islands;


### 23. stresses , particularly in the context of the covid-19 crisis , the importance of improving the health infrastructure on european islands; ### 23. stresses , particularly in the context of the covid-19 crisis , the importance of improving the health infrastructure , enforcing services of telemedicine , telepsychiatry and upgrading the primary health care on european islands;


### 24. calls for priority to be afforded to equipping islands with digital technologies , in particular so as to enhance the provision of education and training services; ### 24. calls for priority to be afforded to equipping islands with efficient access to digital technologies , in particular so as to enhance the provision of education , training services , telemedicine and telepsychiatry;


### 25. stresses that the lack of statistical data on islands is hindering the development of targeted policies; calls on the commission to set up a european institute for disadvantaged territories to collect data at all administrative levels; ### 25. stresses that the lack of statistical data on islands is hindering the development of targeted policies; calls on the commission to set up a european institute for disadvantaged territories to collect data that is regularly updated using harmonised criteria at all administrative levels;


### 28. calls on the commission to produce an analysis of the volume of state aid granted to undertakings based in island regions; considers it imperative , despite the efforts made by the eu and the member states , to determine whether and to what extent undertakings located in island territories have benefited from such measures; ### 28. calls on the commission to produce an analysis of the volume of state aid granted to undertakings based in island regions; considers it imperative , despite the efforts made by the eu and the member states , to determine whether and to what extent undertakings located in island territories have benefited from such measures; underlines in this connection the importance of more flexible state aid for air and maritime transport companies in these island territories , given their total dependence on these means of transport;


### 30. calls for the creation of an ‘islands’ sub-category in connection with the application of the rules on regional state aid for the period 2021-2027 , and for the ceiling of the ‘de minimis’ regulation , above which the commission’s authorisation is required , to be revised upwards; ### 30. calls for the creation of an ‘islands’ sub-category , given their distinct characteristics , in connection with the application of the rules on state aid for the period 2021-2027 , and for the ceiling of the ‘de minimis’ regulation , above which the commission’s authorisation is required , to be revised upwards;


### a. whereas foreign interference constitutes a serious violation of the universal values and principles on which the union is founded , such as human dignity , freedom , equality , solidarity , respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms , democracy and the rule of law; ### a. whereas foreign interference constitutes a serious violation of the universal values and principles on which the union is founded , such as human dignity , freedom , equality , solidarity , respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms , democracy and the rule of law; whereas foreign interference clearly undermines eu security , system of government and sovereignty;


### a. whereas foreign interference constitutes a serious violation of the universal values and principles on which the union is founded , such as human dignity , freedom , equality , solidarity , respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms , democracy and the rule of law; ### a. whereas foreign interference by authoritarian state and non-state actors constitutes a serious violation of the universal values and principles on which the union is founded , such as human dignity , freedom , equality , solidarity , respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms , democracy and the rule of law;


### a. whereas foreign interference constitutes a serious violation of the universal values and principles on which the union is founded , such as human dignity , freedom , equality , solidarity , respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms , democracy and the rule of law; ### a. whereas foreign interference constitutes a serious threat to the universal values and principles on which the union is founded , such as human dignity , freedom , equality , solidarity , respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms , democracy and the rule of law;


### b. whereas foreign interference , information manipulation and disinformation are an abuse of the fundamental freedoms of expression and information as laid down in article 11 of the charter of fundamental rights of the european union and threaten these freedoms , as well as democratic processes in the eu and its member states , such as the holding of free and fair elections; ### b. whereas foreign interference , information manipulation and disinformation may constitute an abuse of the fundamental freedoms of expression and information as laid down in article 11 of the charter of fundamental rights of the european union and threaten these freedoms , as well as democratic processes in the eu and its member states , such as the holding of free and fair elections;


### c. whereas any action against foreign interference and information manipulation must itself respect the fundamental freedoms of expression and information; ### c. whereas any action against foreign interference and information manipulation must itself respect the fundamental freedoms of expression and information; whereas it is vital to step up our precautionary fight against foreign interference and fake news because our democracy depends on people making informed decisions;


### d. whereas evidence shows that malicious foreign actors use information manipulation and other interference tactics to interfere in democratic processes in the eu; whereas these attacks mislead and deceive citizens , increase polarisation and divide society , worsen the situation of vulnerable groups , distort the integrity of democratic elections and referenda , and sow distrust in public authorities and democracy; ### d. whereas evidence shows that malicious foreign actors use information manipulation and other interference tactics to interfere in democratic processes in the eu; whereas these attacks mislead and deceive citizens , increase polarisation and divide society also by exploiting and augmenting existing cleavages , worsen the situation of vulnerable groups , distort the integrity of democratic elections and referenda , and sow distrust in public authorities and democracy;


### d. whereas evidence shows that malicious foreign actors use information manipulation and other interference tactics to interfere in democratic processes in the eu; whereas these attacks mislead and deceive citizens , increase polarisation and divide society , worsen the situation of vulnerable groups , distort the integrity of democratic elections and referenda , and sow distrust in public authorities and democracy; ### d. whereas evidence shows that malicious foreign actors use information manipulation and other interference tactics to interfere in democratic processes in the eu; whereas these attacks mislead and deceive citizens , as well as impact their voting behaviour , increase polarisation and divide society , worsen the situation of vulnerable groups , distort the integrity of democratic elections and referenda , and sow distrust in public authorities and democracy;


### d. whereas evidence shows that malicious foreign actors use information manipulation and other interference tactics to interfere in democratic processes in the eu; whereas these attacks mislead and deceive citizens , increase polarisation and divide society , worsen the situation of vulnerable groups , distort the integrity of democratic elections and referenda , and sow distrust in public authorities and democracy; ### d. whereas evidence shows that malicious foreign state and non-state actors use information manipulation and other interference tactics to interfere in democratic processes in the eu; whereas these attacks mislead and deceive citizens , increase polarisation and divide society , worsen the situation of vulnerable groups , distort the integrity of democratic elections and referenda , and sow distrust in public authorities , media and democracy;


### e. whereas foreign interference tactics take the form of disinformation and the suppression of information , but also the manipulation of social media platforms and advertising systems , cyberattacks , hack-and-leak operations , threats against and the harassment of journalists , researchers , politicians and members of civil society organisations , covert donations and loans to political parties , campaigns , organisations and media outlets , fake or proxy media outlets and organisations , elite capture and co-optation , fake personas , pressure to self-censor , the abusive exploitation of historical , religious and cultural narratives , pressure on educational and cultural institutions , taking control of critical infrastructure , pressuring foreign nationals living in the eu and espionage; ### e. whereas foreign interference tactics take the form of disinformation and the suppression of information , but also the manipulation of social media platforms and advertising systems , cyberattacks , hack-and-leak operations , threats against and the harassment of journalists , researchers , politicians and members of civil society organisations , covert donations and loans to political parties , campaigns , organisations and media outlets , fake or proxy media outlets and organisations , elite capture and co-optation , fake personas , pressure to self-censor , the abusive exploitation of historical , religious and cultural narratives , pressure on educational and cultural institutions , taking control of critical infrastructure , pressuring foreign nationals living in the eu , weaponization of migration and espionage;


### e. whereas foreign interference tactics take the form of disinformation and the suppression of information , but also the manipulation of social media platforms and advertising systems , cyberattacks , hack-and-leak operations , threats against and the harassment of journalists , researchers , politicians and members of civil society organisations , covert donations and loans to political parties , campaigns , organisations and media outlets , fake or proxy media outlets and organisations , elite capture and co-optation , fake personas , pressure to self-censor , the abusive exploitation of historical , religious and cultural narratives , pressure on educational and cultural institutions , taking control of critical infrastructure , pressuring foreign nationals living in the eu and espionage; ### e. whereas foreign interference tactics take the form of disinformation and the suppression of information , but also the manipulation of social media platforms and advertising systems , cyberattacks , hack-and-leak operations , threats against and the harassment of journalists , researchers , politicians and members of civil society organisations , covert donations and loans to political parties , campaigns , organisations and media outlets , fake or proxy media outlets and organisations , elite capture and co-optation , "dirty" money , fake personas , pressure to self-censor , the abusive exploitation of historical , religious and cultural narratives , pressure on educational and cultural institutions , taking control of critical infrastructure , pressuring foreign nationals living in the eu and espionage;


### e. whereas foreign interference tactics take the form of disinformation and the suppression of information , but also the manipulation of social media platforms and advertising systems , cyberattacks , hack-and-leak operations , threats against and the harassment of journalists , researchers , politicians and members of civil society organisations , covert donations and loans to political parties , campaigns , organisations and media outlets , fake or proxy media outlets and organisations , elite capture and co-optation , fake personas , pressure to self-censor , the abusive exploitation of historical , religious and cultural narratives , pressure on educational and cultural institutions , taking control of critical infrastructure , pressuring foreign nationals living in the eu and espionage; ### e. whereas foreign interference tactics take the form of disinformation and the suppression of information , but also the manipulation of social media platforms and advertising systems , cyberattacks , hack-and-leak operations , threats against and the harassment of journalists , researchers , politicians and members of civil society organisations , covert donations and loans to political parties , campaigns , organisations and media outlets , fake or proxy media outlets and organisations , elite capture and co-optation , fake personas , pressure to self-censor , the abusive exploitation of historical , religious and cultural narratives , pressure on educational and cultural institutions , attacks on critical infrastructure , pressuring foreign nationals living in the eu and espionage;


### f. whereas foreign interference is a pattern of behaviour that threatens or has the potential to negatively impact values , procedures and political processes; whereas such interference is manipulative in character , and conducted in an intentional and coordinated manner; whereas those responsible for such interference , including their proxies within and outside their own territory , can be state or non-state actors; whereas foreign actors’ use of domestic proxies and cooperation with domestic allies blurs the line between foreign and domestic interference; ### f. whereas foreign interference is a pattern of behaviour that threatens or negatively impacts values , procedures and political processes; whereas such interference is manipulative in character , and conducted in an intentional and coordinated manner; whereas those responsible for such interference , including their proxies within and outside their own territory , can be state or non-state actors; whereas foreign actors’ use of domestic proxies and cooperation with domestic allies blurs the line between foreign and domestic interference and requires further investigation;


### f. whereas foreign interference is a pattern of behaviour that threatens or has the potential to negatively impact values , procedures and political processes; whereas such interference is manipulative in character , and conducted in an intentional and coordinated manner; whereas those responsible for such interference , including their proxies within and outside their own territory , can be state or non-state actors; whereas foreign actors’ use of domestic proxies and cooperation with domestic allies blurs the line between foreign and domestic interference; ### f. whereas foreign interference is a pattern of behaviour that threatens or has the potential to negatively impact values , democratic procedures and political processes; whereas such interference is manipulative in character , and conducted in an intentional and coordinated manner; whereas those responsible for such interference , including their proxies within and outside their own territory , can be state or non-state actors; whereas foreign actors’ use of domestic proxies and cooperation with domestic allies blurs the line between foreign and domestic interference;


### h. whereas foreign interference attempts are increasing and becoming more sophisticated; ### h. whereas foreign interference attempts are increasing and becoming more sophisticated , relying on new technologies , including among others more widespread use of the artificial intelligence;


### h. whereas foreign interference attempts are increasing and becoming more sophisticated; ### h. whereas across the world , democratic societies , institutions , processes and values are facing increasing foreign interference attempts are becoming more sophisticated;


### h. whereas foreign interference attempts are increasing and becoming more sophisticated; ### h. whereas foreign interference attempts are increasing and becoming more sophisticated , eroding attributability;


### be. whereas a number of former high-level european politicians and civil servants are hired or co-opted by foreign companies controlled by states operating malicious interference within the eu , in exchange of their knowledge at the expense of the eu and its member states’ interests; ### be. whereas a number of former high-level european politicians and civil servants are hired or co-opted by foreign state-controlled companies , in exchange of their knowledge at the expense of the eu and its member states’ interests;


### be. whereas a number of former high-level european politicians and civil servants are hired or co-opted by foreign companies controlled by states operating malicious interference within the eu , in exchange of their knowledge at the expense of the eu and its member states’ interests; ### be. whereas a number of former high-level european politicians and civil servants are hired or co-opted by foreign companies controlled by authoritarian states operating malicious interference within the eu , in exchange of their knowledge at the expense of the eu and its member states’ interests;


### bf. whereas two countries are particularly active in the field of elite capture and co-optation , namely russia and china , with , for instance , former german chancellor gerhard schröder and former prime minister of finland paavo lipponen having both joined gazprom to speed up the application process for nord stream 1 and 2 , former austrian minister of foreign affairs karin kneissl appointed board member of rosneft , former prime minister of france françois fillon appointed board member of zaroubejneft , former prime minister of france jean-pierre raffarin actively engaged in promoting chinese interests in france , and former czech commissioner štefan füle having worked for cefc china energy; ### deleted