### the indicators used to monitor progress towards meeting priority objectives include those used by the eea to monitor the state of the environment and those to monitor the implementation of existing environment and climate - related targets and legislation , including the climate and energy targets , biodiversity targets , and resource efficiency milestones . additional indicators to measure overall progress towards a resource - efficient european economy and society and its contribution to prosperity and well - being will be developed in coordination with stakeholders in the context of the roadmap to a resource - efficient europe . ### the indicators used to monitor progress towards meeting priority objectives include those used by the eea to monitor the state of the environment and those to monitor the implementation of existing environment and climate - related targets and legislation , including the climate and energy targets , biodiversity targets , and resource efficiency milestones . progress should also be made on the availability and harmonisation of data on the production and treatment of waste , in the context of existing european statistical regulations . additional indicators to measure overall progress towards a resource - efficient european economy and society and its contribution to prosperity and well - being will be developed in coordination with stakeholders in the context of the roadmap to a resource - efficient europe and in the common implementation framework of the 2020 biodiversity strategy .


### by decision 2012 / 419 / eu , the european council decided to amend the status of mayotte with regard to the european union with effect from 1 january 2014 . therefore , from that date mayotte will cease to be an overseas territory and become an outermost region within the meaning of articles 349 and 355 of the treaty . union law will apply to mayotte as from that date . it is appropriate to provide for certain specific measures justified by the particular structural social and economic situation of mayotte in a number of areas . ### by decision 2012 / 419 / eu , the european council decided to amend the status of mayotte with regard to the european union with effect from 1 january 2014 . therefore , from that date mayotte will cease to be an overseas territory and become an outermost region within the meaning of articles 349 and 355 of the treaty on the functioning of the eu . following this change in legal status of mayotte , union law will apply to mayotte as from 1 january 2014 . it is appropriate to provide for certain specific measures justified by the particular structural social , environmental and economic situation of mayotte in a number of areas .


### in respect of directive 2006 / 7 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 15 february 2006 concerning the management of bathing water quality and repealing directive 76 / 160 / eec , the current state of surface waters in mayotte calls for considerable improvement in order to comply with the requirements of that directive . the quality of bathing waters depends directly upon urban waste water treatment , and the provisions of directive 2006 / 7 / ec may only be complied with progressively once agglomerations that affect the quality of urban waste waters comply with the requirements of directive 91 / 271 / eec . therefore , specific time limits need to be adopted in order allow france to reach the union standards as regards bathing water quality in mayotte . ### in respect of directive 2006 / 7 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 15 february 2006 concerning the management of bathing water quality and repealing directive 76 / 160 / eec , the current state of surface waters in mayotte calls for considerable improvement in order to comply with the requirements of that directive . the quality of bathing waters depends directly upon urban waste water treatment , and the provisions of directive 2006 / 7 / ec may only be complied with progressively once agglomerations that affect the quality of urban waste waters comply with the requirements of directive 91 / 271 / eec . therefore , specific time limits need to be adopted in order to allow france to reach the union standards as regards bathing water quality in mayotte as a new outermost region and due to its special social , environmental and economic situation .


### in the area of social policy , account should be taken of the difficulties to comply with directive 2006 / 25 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 5 april 2006 on the minimum health and safety requirements regarding the exposure of workers to risks arising from physical agents in mayotte as from 1 january 2014 . there are no technical facilities available in mayotte for the implementation of measures necessary to comply with that directive in the field of artificial optical radiation . therefore , it is possible to grant a derogation to france from certain provisions of that directive until 31 december 2017 , provided that those structures are not available in mayotte and without prejudice to the general principles of protection and prevention in the area of health and safety of workers . ### in the area of social policy , account should be taken of the difficulties to comply with directive 2006 / 25 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 5 april 2006 on the minimum health and safety requirements regarding the exposure of workers to risks arising from physical agents in mayotte as from 1 january 2014 . there are no technical facilities available in mayotte due to its prevailing special social and economic situation for the implementation of measures necessary to comply with that directive in the field of artificial optical radiation . therefore , it is appropriate to grant a derogation to france from certain provisions of that directive until 31 december 2017 , provided that those structures are not available in mayotte and without prejudice to the general principles of protection and prevention in the area of health and safety of workers .


### by way of derogation from paragraph 1 , in respect of mayotte france shall ensure that urban waste water entering collecting systems are , before discharge , subject to secondary treatment or an equivalent treatment : - by 31 december 2020 at the latest for agglomerations of more than 15 000 p . e . which , along with those agglomerations referred to in article 5 , will cover at least 70% of the load generated in mayotte ; - by 31 december 2027 at the latest for all agglomerations . ' ### by way of derogation from paragraph 1 , in respect of mayotte france shall ensure that urban waste water entering collecting systems are , before discharge , subject to secondary treatment or an equivalent treatment : - by 31 december 2020 at the latest for agglomerations of more than 15 000 p . e . which , along with those agglomerations referred to in article 5 , will cover at least 70% of the load generated in mayotte ; - by 31 december 2027 at the latest for all agglomerations of more than 2 000 p . e . . '


### ' by way of derogation from paragraph 2 , in mayotte , laying hens in lay on 1 january 2014 and reared at that date in cages as referred to in this chapter may continue to be reared in such cages until 31 december 2014 . ' ### ' by way of derogation from paragraph 2 , in mayotte as an outermost region in the meaning of article 349 tfeu , laying hens may continue to be reared in cages as referred to in this chapter until 31 december 2017 . '


### this directive shall enter into force on the twentieth day following that of its publication in the official journal of the european union . ### this directive shall enter into force on the twentieth day following that of its publication in the official journal of the european union . it shall apply from 1 january 2014 .


### the union has the objective of strengthening its scientific and technological bases by achieving a european research area in which researchers , scientific knowledge and technology circulate freely , and encouraging the union to become more competitive , including in its industry . to pursue those objectives the union should carry out activities to implement research , technological development and demonstration , promote international cooperation , disseminate and optimise results and stimulate training and mobility . ### the union has the objective of strengthening its scientific and technological bases by achieving a european research area in which researchers , scientific knowledge and technology circulate freely , and encouraging the union to become more competitive , including in its industry . to pursue those objectives the union should carry out activities to implement research , technological development and demonstration , promote international cooperation , disseminate and optimise results strive after innovation and stimulate training and mobility .


### simplification is a central aim of horizon 2020 which should be fully reflected in its design , rules , financial management and implementation . horizon 2020 should aim to attract the strong participation of universities , research centres , industry and specifically smes and be open to new participants , as it brings together the full range of research and innovation support in one common strategic framework , including a streamlined set of forms of support and uses rules for participation with principles applicable to all actions under the programme . simpler funding rules should reduce the administrative costs for participation and will contribute to a reduction of financial errors . ### simplification and clarity is a central aim of horizon 2020 which should be fully reflected in its design , rules , financial management and implementation . horizon 2020 should aim to attract the strong participation of universities , research centres , industry and specifically smes and be open to new participants , as it brings together the full range of research and innovation support in one common strategic framework , including a streamlined set of forms of support and uses rules for participation with principles applicable to all actions under the programme . simpler funding rules should reduce the administrative costs for participation and will contribute to a reduction of financial errors and discrepancies .


### the implementation of horizon 2020 should respond to the evolving opportunities and needs from science and technology , industry , policies and society . as such , the agendas should be set in close liaison with stakeholders from all sectors concerned , and sufficient flexibility should be allowed for new developments . external advice should be sought on a continuous basis during horizon 2020 , also making use of relevant structures such as european technology platforms , joint programming initiatives and the european innovation partnerships . ### the implementation of horizon 2020 should respond to the evolving opportunities and needs from science and technology , industry , policies and society and in the cultural sector . as such , the agendas should be set in close liaison with stakeholders from all sectors concerned , and sufficient flexibility should be allowed for new developments . external advice should be sought on a continuous basis during horizon 2020 , also making use of relevant structures such as european technology platforms , joint programming initiatives and the european innovation partnerships .


### horizon 2020 should contribute to the attractiveness of the research profession in the union . adequate attention should be paid to the european charter for researchers and code of conduct for the recruitment of researchers , together with other relevant reference frameworks defined in the context of the european research area , while respecting their voluntary nature . ### horizon 2020 should contribute to the attractiveness of the research profession in the union and efforts to organise it on competitive lines . adequate attention should be paid to the european charter for researchers and code of conduct for the recruitment of researchers , together with other relevant reference frameworks defined in the context of the european research area , while respecting their voluntary nature .


### research activity intended to modify the genetic heritage of human beings which could make such changes heritable ; ### research activity intended to modify the genetic heritage of human beings ;


### the commission shall take appropriate measures ensuring that , when actions financed under this regulation are implemented , the financial interests of the union are protected by the application of preventive measures against fraud , corruption and any other illegal activities , by effective checks and , if irregularities are detected , by the recovery of the amounts wrongly paid and , where appropriate , by effective , proportionate and deterrent penalties . ### the commission shall take appropriate measures ensuring that , when actions financed under this regulation are implemented , the financial interests of the union are protected by the efficient management of research centres , the application of preventive measures against fraud , corruption and any other illegal activities , by effective checks and , if irregularities are detected , by the recovery of the amounts wrongly paid and , where appropriate , by effective , proportionate and deterrent penalties .


### advancing scientific knowledge of the potential impact of nanotechnologies and nanosystems on health or on the environment , and providing tools for risk assessment and management along the entire life cycle . ### advancing scientific knowledge of the potential impact of nanotechnologies and nanosystems on health or on the environment , and providing tools for risk assessment and management along the entire life cycle , and to enable people with disabilities to be more fully integrated into society .


### the jrc ' s key competence areas will be energy , transport , environment and climate change , agriculture and food security , health and consumer protection , information and communication technologies , reference materials , and safety and security . ### the jrc ' s key competence areas will be energy , transport , environment and climate change , agriculture and food security , health and consumer protection , the protection of the historical , artistic and cultural heritage , information and communication technologies , reference materials , and safety and security .


### the eit will address these issues by promoting structural changes in the european innovation landscape . it will do so by fostering the integration of higher education , research and innovation of the highest standards , thereby creating new environments conducive to innovation , and by promoting and supporting a new generation of entrepreneurial people . in doing so , the eit will contribute fully to the objectives of europe 2020 and notably the innovation union and youth on the move flagship initiatives . ### the eit will address these issues by promoting structural changes in the european innovation landscape which encourages the union to become more competitive . it will do so by fostering the integration of higher education , research and innovation of the highest standards , thereby creating new environments conducive to innovation , and by promoting and supporting a new generation of entrepreneurial people . in doing so , the eit will contribute fully to the objectives of europe 2020 and notably the innovation union and youth on the move flagship initiatives , therefore the financial contribution set out in annex ii is crucial .


### the high and rapidly increasing demand for maritime space for different purposes , such as renewable energy installations , maritime shipping and fishing activities , ecosystem conservation and tourism and aquaculture installations , as well as the multiple pressures on coastal resources require an integrated planning and management approach . ### the high and rapidly increasing demand for maritime space for different purposes , such as renewable energy installations , maritime shipping and fishing activities , ecosystem and biodiversity conservation and tourism and aquaculture installations , as well as the multiple pressures on coastal resources require an integrated planning and management approach .


### in order to ensure consistency and legal clarity , the geographical scope for maritime spatial planning and integrated coastal management strategies should be defined in conformity with existing legislative instruments of the union and international maritime law . ### in order to ensure consistency and legal clarity , the geographical scope for maritime spatial planning and integrated coastal management strategies should be defined in conformity with existing legislative instruments of the union , the united nations convention on the law of the sea and international maritime law .


### through maritime spatial plans and integrated coastal management strategies member states can reduce administrative burden and costs in support of their action to implement other relevant union legislation . the timelines for maritime spatial plans and integrated coastal management strategies should therefore be coherent with the timetables set out in other relevant legislation , especially : directive 2009 / 28 / ec , which requires that member state shall ensure that the share of energy from renewable sources in gross final consumption of energy in 2020 is at least 20 % and which identifies coordination of authorisation , certification and planning procedures , including spatial planning as an important contribution to achievement of the eu ' s renewable energy targets ; directive 2008 / 56 / ec and annex a to decision 2010 / 477 / eu , which requires that member states shall take the necessary measures to achieve or maintain good environmental status in the marine environment by 2020 and which identify maritime spatial planning as a tool to support the ecosystem - based approach to the management of human activities in order to achieve good environmental status ; decision 884 / 2004 / ec of the european parliament and of the council amending decision no 1692 / 96 / ec on community guidelines for the development of the trans - european transport network which requires that the trans - european transport network shall be established by 2020 by integrating europe ' s land , sea and air transport infrastructure networks . ### through maritime spatial plans and integrated coastal management strategies member states can reduce administrative burden and costs in support of their action to implement other relevant union legislation . the timelines for maritime spatial plans and integrated coastal management strategies should therefore be coherent with the timetables set out in other relevant legislation , especially : directive 2009 / 28 / ec , which requires that member state shall ensure that the share of energy from renewable sources in gross final consumption of energy in 2020 is at least 20 % and which identifies coordination of authorisation , certification and planning procedures , including spatial planning as an important contribution to achievement of the eu ' s renewable energy targets ; directive 2008 / 56 / ec and annex a to decision 2010 / 477 / eu , which requires that member states shall take the necessary measures to achieve or maintain good environmental status in the marine environment by 2020 and which identify maritime spatial planning as a tool in order to achieve good environmental status ; decision 884 / 2004 / ec of the european parliament and of the council amending decision no 1692 / 96 / ec on community guidelines for the development of the trans - european transport network which requires that the trans - european transport network shall be established by 2020 by integrating europe ' s land , sea and air transport infrastructure networks .


### this directive establishes a framework for maritime spatial planning and integrated coastal management aiming at promoting the sustainable growth of maritime and coastal economies and the sustainable use of marine and coastal resources . ### this directive establishes a framework for ecosystem based maritime spatial planning and integrated coastal management aiming to contribute to the sustainable growth of maritime and coastal economies and the sustainable use of marine and coastal resources .


### when establishing maritime spatial plans and integrated coastal management strategies , member states shall give due regard to the particularities of the regions and the sub - regions , the respective sector activities , the marine waters and coastal zones concerned and potential climate change impacts . ### when establishing maritime spatial planning and integrated coastal management strategies , member states shall give due regard to the particularities of the marine and coastal regions and sub - regions , the existing and planned sector activities , their impact on environment and the expected impacts of climate change .


### installations for the extraction of energy and the production of renewable energy ; ### installations and infrastructures for the exploration and extraction of oil , gas and other energy resources and the production of renewable energy ;


### fishing areas ; ### fishing and aquaculture areas ;


### member states bordering a coastal zone or maritime area of a third country shall make every effort to coordinate their maritime spatial plans and integrated coastal management strategies with that third country in the marine region or sub - region and the related coastal zone concerned . ### member states bordering a coastal zone or maritime area of a third country shall consult that country and make every effort to cooperate and coordinate their maritime spatial plans and integrated coastal management strategies with that third country in the marine region or sub - region and the related coastal zone concerned .


### given the increasing usage of satellite navigation across a great number of fields of activity , an interruption in the supply of services could lead to significant harm to modern society . in addition , due to their strategic aspect , satellite navigation systems are sensitive infrastructures , that could be susceptible to malicious use . the abovementioned aspects could affect the security of the union and its member states . security requirements must therefore be taken into account in the design , implementation and operation of the infrastructures emerging from the galileo and egnos programmes . ### given the increasing usage of satellite navigation across a great number of fields of activity , an interruption in the supply of services could lead to significant harm to modern society and result in losses for many economic operators . in addition , due to their strategic aspect , satellite navigation systems are sensitive infrastructures , that could be susceptible to malicious use . the abovementioned aspects could affect the security of the union and its member states . security requirements must therefore be taken into account in the design , implementation and operation of the infrastructures emerging from the galileo and egnos programmes .


### it is necessary to ensure that the european parliament and the council are kept regularly informed about the implementation of the programmes . in addition , the european parliament , the council and the commission will meet in the galileo interinstitutional panel in accordance with the joint declaration on the galileo interinstitutional panel of 9 july 2008 . ### the european parliament and the council should be kept regularly informed about the implementation of the programmes . in addition , the european parliament , the council and the commission will meet in the galileo interinstitutional panel in accordance with the joint declaration on the galileo interinstitutional panel of 9 july 2008 .


### the galileo and egnos programmes shall cover all the activities needed to define , develop , validate , construct , operate , renew and improve the two european satellite navigation systems , namely the system established under the galileo programme and the egnos system , and to ensure their security . ### the galileo and egnos programmes shall cover all the activities needed to define , develop , validate , construct , operate , renew and improve the two european satellite navigation systems , namely the system established under the galileo programme and the egnos system , and to ensure their security and interoperability .


### to offer a safety - of - life service aimed at users for whom safety is essential . this service also fulfils the requirements of certain sectors for continuity , availability and accuracy and includes an integrity function alerting the user to any failure in the system ; ### to offer a safety - of - life service free of charge and aimed at users for whom safety is essential ; this service also fulfils the requirements of certain sectors for continuity , availability and accuracy and includes an integrity function alerting the user to any failure in the system ;


### to offer a safety - of - life service service aimed at users for whom safety is essential ; in particular , this service fulfils the requirements of certain sectors for continuity , availability and accuracy and includes an integrity message alerting the user to any failure in the system over the coverage area . ### to offer a safety - of - life service free of charge and aimed at users for whom safety is essential ; in particular , this service fulfils the requirements of certain sectors for continuity , availability and accuracy and includes an integrity message alerting the user to any failure in the system over the coverage area .


### it is important to improve consumer protection . to achieve this general objective , specific objectives should be set as regards safety , consumer information and education , rights and redress as well as enforcement in respect of consumer rights . the value and impact of the measures taken under the programme should regularly be monitored and evaluated . for the purposes of evaluating consumer policy indicators should be developed . ### it is important to improve consumer protection , with particular focus on vulnerable groups in order to achieve the objective of inclusive growth . to achieve this general objective , specific objectives should be set as regards safety , consumer information and education , rights and redress as well as enforcement in respect of consumer rights . the value and impact of the measures taken under the programme should annually be monitored and evaluated , and reported to the european parliament . for the purposes of evaluating consumer policy , indicators should be developed . in addition , the commission should establish a set of appropriate statistical indicators , for instance for cross - border sales , online sales , at union level in order to assess results and progress in improving of the functioning of the single market .


### long - term finance is a crucial enabling tool for putting the european economy on a path of sustainable , smart and inclusive growth and for building tomorrow ' s economy in a way that is less prone to systemic risks and is more resilient . european long - term investment funds provide finance to various infrastructure projects or unlisted companies of lasting duration that issue equity or debt instruments for which there is no readily identifiable buyer . by providing finance to such projects , eltifs contribute to the financing of the union economies . ### long - term finance is a crucial enabling tool for putting the european economy on a path of sustainable , smart and inclusive growth and for building tomorrow ' s economy and global competitiveness in a way that is less prone to systemic risks and is more resilient . european long - term investment funds provide finance to various infrastructure projects or unlisted companies of lasting duration that issue equity or debt instruments for which there is no readily identifiable buyer . by providing finance to such projects , eltifs contribute to the financing of the union economies .


### in order to ensure uniform conditions for the implementation of the interim agreement and the saa , implementing powers should be conferred on the commission . those powers should be exercised in accordance with regulation no 182 / 2011 of the european parliament and of the council of 16 february 2011 laying down the rules and general principles concerning mechanisms for control by member states of the commission ' s exercise of implementing powers . given that the implementing measures form part of the common commercial policy , the examination procedure should be used for their adoption . where the interim agreement and the saa foresee the possibility , in exceptional and critical circumstances , to apply forthwith measures necessary to deal with the situation , the commission should adopt immediately such implementing acts . ### in order to ensure uniform conditions for the implementation of the interim agreement and the saa , implementing powers should be conferred on the commission . those powers should be exercised in accordance with regulation no 182 / 2011 of the european parliament and of the council of 16 february 2011 laying down the rules and general principles concerning mechanisms for control by member states of the commission ' s exercise of implementing powers .


### amendments and technical adaptations to the provisions adopted pursuant to this regulation rendered necessary by changes to the combined nomenclature codes and to the taric subdivisions or arising from the conclusion of new or modified agreements under article 218 treaty on the functioning of the european union between the union and the republic of serbia , shall be adopted in accordance with the procedure set out in article 13 or , as the case may be , with respect to agricultural products the procedure set out in article14 . ### amendments and technical adaptations to the provisions adopted pursuant to this regulation rendered necessary by changes to the combined nomenclature codes and to the taric subdivisions or arising from the conclusion of new or modified agreements under article 218 treaty on the functioning of the european union between the union and the republic of serbia , and which shall not entail any substantive changes , shall be adopted in accordance with the examination procedure set out in article 13 or , as the case may be , with respect to agricultural products the examination procedure set out in article14 .


### where reference is made to this paragraph , article 8 of regulation no 182 / 2011 , in conjunction with article 5 thereof , shall apply . ### where reference is made to this paragraph , article 8 of regulation no 182 / 2011 , in conjunction with article 4 thereof , shall apply .


### in order to attain its objectives , the copernicus programme should rely on an autonomous union’s capacity for space - borne observations and provide operational services in the field of environment , civil protection and security . it should also make use of the available in - situ data provided , namely , by the member states . the provision of operational services depends on the well - functioning and safety of the copernicus space component . the increasing risk of collision with other satellites and space debris is the most serious threat to the copernicus space component . therefore , the copernicus programme should support actions aimed at reducing such risks , in particular by contributing to the programme established by decision [ xxx ] of the european parliament and the council establishing a space surveillance and tracking support programme11 . ____________ 11 oj l , , p . . ### in order to attain its objectives , the copernicus programme should rely on an autonomous union’s capacity for space - borne observations and provide operational services in the field of environment , climate , civil protection and security . it should also make use of the available in - situ measurement and remote sensing data provided , namely , by the member states . the provision of operational services depends on the well - functioning and safety of the copernicus space component . the increasing risk of collision with other satellites and space debris is the most serious threat to the copernicus space component . therefore , the copernicus programme should support actions aimed at reducing such risks , in particular by contributing to the programme established by decision [ xxx ] of the european parliament and the council establishing a space surveillance and tracking support programme11 . _____________ 11 oj l , , p . .


### the maximum financial envelope needed for the copernicus actions is eur 3 786 million in 2011 prices , allotted in a separate budget chapter under title 2 of heading 1a of the union ' s general budget . staff and administrative expenditures incurred by the commission in the coordination of the copernicus programme should be funded from the budget of the union . ### as a large scale project in the meaning of [ article 14 ] of the council regulation no . . . / 2013 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2014 - 2020 , the maximum financial amount available for the copernicus actions and for any possible risk associated with its activities is eur 3 786 million in 2011 prices , allotted in a separate budget chapter under title 2 of heading 1a of the union ' s general budget . staff and administrative expenditures incurred by the commission in the coordination of the copernicus programme should be funded from the budget of the union . in the event of additional unforeseen financial obligations , any increase in the union contribution should not be at the expense of other programmes and should therefore be covered by the margin available between the mff ceilings and the own resources ceiling .


### the maximum financial envelope needed for the copernicus actions is eur 3 786 million in 2011 prices , allotted in a separate budget chapter under title 2 of heading 1a of the union’s general budget . staff and administrative expenditures incurred by the commission in the coordination of the copernicus programme should be funded from the budget of the union . ### the maximum financial envelope needed for the copernicus actions is eur 3 786 million in 2011 prices , allotted in a separate budget chapter under title 2 of heading 1a of the union’s general budget . staff and administrative expenditures incurred by the commission in the coordination of the copernicus programme should be funded from the budget of the union . in the event of additional unforeseen financial obligations , any increase in the union contribution should not be at the expense of other programmes and should therefore be covered by the margin available between the mff ceilings and the own resources ceiling .


### the international dimension of copernicus is of particular relevance in the exchange of data and information , as well as in access to observation infra - structure . such an exchange system is more cost - efficient than data - buy schemes and strengthens the global dimension of the programme . ### the international dimension of copernicus is of particular relevance in the exchange of data and information , as well as in access to observation infra - structure . such an exchange system is more cost - efficient than data - buy schemes and strengthens the global dimension of the programme , and it should be ensured that the information and data thus exchanged is properly protected .


### taking into account the partnership dimension of copernicus and in order to avoid duplication of technical expertise , the implementation of the programme should be delegated to entities with the appropriate technical and professional capacity . ### taking into account the partnership dimension of copernicus and in order to avoid duplication of technical expertise , the implementation of the programme should be delegated to entities with the appropriate technical and professional capacity . use should be made of existing infrastructure – such as the galileo control centres – for the technical monitoring and coordination of satellites .


### in the implementation of the copernicus programme , the commission may rely , where duly justified by the special nature of the action and specific expertise of the union body , on competent union agencies , such as the european environment agency , the european agency for the management of operational cooperation at the external borders of the member states of the european union , the european maritime safety agency and the european union satellite centre or any relevant body potentially eligible for a delegation according to article 58 of regulation no 966 / 2012 of the european parliament and of the council of 25 october 2012 on the financial rules applicable to the annual budget of the union12 . the choice of the union body shall take due account of the cost efficiency of entrusting those tasks and the impact on the body ' s governance structure and on its financial and human resources __________________ 12 oj l 298 , 26 . 10 . 2012 , p . 1 . ### in the implementation of the copernicus programme , the commission may rely , where duly justified by the special nature of the action and specific expertise of the union body , on competent union agencies , such as the european environment agency , the european agency for the management of operational cooperation at the external borders of the member states of the european union , the european maritime safety agency , the european gnss agency and the european union satellite centre or any relevant body potentially eligible for a delegation according to article 58 of regulation no 966 / 2012 of the european parliament and of the council of 25 october 2012 on the financial rules applicable to the annual budget of the union12 . the choice of the union body shall take due account of the cost efficiency of entrusting those tasks and the impact on the body ' s governance structure and on its financial and human resources __________________ 12 oj l 298 , 26 . 10 . 2012 , p . 1 .


### in order to achieve the objective of copernicus on a sustainable basis , it is necessary to coordinate the activities of the various partners involved in copernicus , and to develop , establish and operate a service and observation capacity meeting the demands of users . in this context , a committee should assist the commission in ensuring the coordination of contributions to copernicus by the union , the member states and inter - governmental agencies , making the best use of existing capacities and identifying gaps to be addressed at union level . it should also assist the commission in monitoring the coherent implementation of copernicus . ### in order to achieve the objective of copernicus on a sustainable basis , it is necessary to coordinate the activities of the various partners involved in copernicus , and to develop , establish and operate a service and observation capacity meeting the demands of users . in this context , a committee should assist the commission in ensuring the coordination of contributions to copernicus by the union , the member states , inter - governmental agencies and companies , making the best use of existing capacities and identifying gaps to be addressed at union level . it should also assist the commission in monitoring the coherent implementation of copernicus .


### protection of the environment and provision of support to civil protection and security efforts ; ### monitoring of the environment and climate , protection of the environment , limiting global warming , and provision of support to civil protection and security efforts ;


### support of the europe 2020 growth strategy by contributing to the objectives of smart , sustainable and inclusive growth ; in particular , it shall contribute to economic stability and growth by boosting commercial applications . ### support of the europe 2020 growth strategy by contributing to the objectives of smart , sustainable and inclusive growth ; in particular , it shall contribute to economic stability and growth by boosting commercial applications relating to earth observation .


### the atmosphere monitoring service shall provide information on air quality on a european scale and of the chemical composition of the atmosphere on a global scale . it shall in particular provide information for air quality monitoring systems at the local to national scales , and should contribute to the monitoring of atmospheric chemistry climate variables ; ### the atmosphere monitoring service shall provide information on air quality on a european scale and of the chemical composition of the atmosphere , including the reduction of stratospheric ozone , on a global scale . it shall in particular provide information for air quality monitoring systems on the local to national scales and should contribute to the monitoring of atmospheric chemistry and the dynamics of the earth system ;


### the marine monitoring service shall provide information on the state and dynamics of physical ocean and marine ecosystems for the global ocean and the european regional areas ; ### the marine monitoring service shall provide information on the state and dynamics of physical ocean and marine ecosystems for the global ocean , polar and the european regional areas ;


### the land monitoring service shall provide information in support of the global - to - local environmental monitoring of biodiversity , soil , water , forests and natural resources , as well as in general implementation of environment , agriculture , development , energy , urban planning , infrastructure and transport policies ; ### the land monitoring service shall provide information in support of the global to - local environmental monitoring of biodiversity , soil , water , cryosphere , forests and natural resources , as well as in general implementation of environment , agriculture , development , energy , urban planning , infrastructure and transport policies ;


### the financial envelope allocated to the copernicus programme for the period 2014 &#8211 ; 2020 has a maximum amount of eur 3 786 million in 2011 prices . ### the maximum amount for the implementation of the copernicus programme and to cover the risks associated with its activities for the period 2014 &#8211 ; 2020 is set at eur 3 786 million in 2011 prices , in line with [ article 14 ] of the council regulation no [ . . . ] laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2014 - 2020 . within this amount , operational appropriations shall be distributed to the specific objectives as defined in article 3 , as follows : delivering the operational services referred to in point 1 of article 4 in accordance to users ' needs , [ x ] % ; providing a sustainable and reliable access to space - borne observations , [ x% ] .


### the commission may entrust , in part or in full , the activities of the in - situ component described in article 6 to the operators of the services described in article 4 . ### the commission may entrust , in part or in full , the activities of the non - space component described in article 6 to the operators of the services described in article 4 and in particular to the european environment agency , when general coordination is necessary .


### the commission may entrust , in part or in full , where duly justified by the special nature of the action and specific expertise of the union body the implementation tasks described in article 4 to competent union bodies . among such agencies are : ### the commission may entrust , in part or in full , where duly justified by the special nature of the action and specific expertise of the union body the coordination of the implementation tasks described in article 4 to competent union bodies and european organizations . among such agencies and organizations are :


### the choice of the union body shall take due account of the cost efficiency of entrusting those tasks and the impact on the body ' s governance structure and on its financial and human resources . ### the choice of the union body shall take due account of the state of the market , the cost efficiency of entrusting those tasks and the impact on the body’s governance structure and on its financial and human resources .


### copernicus data and information shall be made available on a full , open and free - of - charge basis , subject to the following limitations : ### copernicus data and information shall be made available on a full , easy - to - access , open and free - of - charge basis , subject to the following limitations :


### without prejudice to paragraphs 1 , 2 and 3 , cooperation agreements with third countries and with international organisations , contracts , grant agreements and grant decisions , resulting from the implementation of this programme shall contain provisions expressly empowering the commission , the court of auditors and olaf to conduct such audits and investigations , according to their respective competences . ### without prejudice to paragraphs 1 , 2 and 3 , cooperation agreements with third countries and with international organisations , contracts , grant agreements and grant decisions , resulting from the implementation of this programme shall contain provisions expressly empowering the commission , the court of auditors and olaf to conduct such audits and investigations , according to their respective competences . the european parliament shall be informed about the results of these audits and investigations .


### the union or a specifically designated body or fund shall be the owner of all tangible and intangible assets created or developed under the copernicus programme subject to agreements concluded with third parties , wherever appropriate , with regard to existing ownership rights . ### the union or a specifically designated body shall be the owner of all tangible and intangible assets created or developed under the copernicus programme subject to agreements concluded with third parties , wherever appropriate , with regard to existing ownership rights .


### in accordance with article 22 of regulation no 1406 / 2002 , the administrative board of the agency commissioned an independent external evaluation on the implementation of that regulation in 2007 . based on this evaluation , it issued recommendations regarding changes to regulation no 1406 / 2002 , to the agency and its working practices in june 2008 . ### in accordance with article 22 of regulation no 1406 / 2002 , the administrative board of the agency commissioned an independent external evaluation on the implementation of that regulation in 2007 . based on this evaluation , it issued recommendations regarding changes to regulation no 1406 / 2002 , to the agency , its areas of competence and its working practices in june 2008 .


### based on the findings of the external evaluation , the recommendations by the administrative board and the multi - annual strategy , some provisions of regulation no 1406 / 2002 should be clarified and updated . furthermore , the agency should receive a number of additional tasks reflecting the development of the maritime safety policy at eu and international level . considerable screening and redeployment efforts are necessary to guarantee cost and budget efficiency . this should allow one third of additional staffing needs for new tasks to be covered through internal redeployment by the agency . ### based on the findings of the external evaluation , the recommendations by the administrative board and the multi - annual strategy , some provisions of regulation no 1406 / 2002 should be clarified and updated . while focusing on its priority tasks in the area of maritime safety , the agency should also receive a number of additional tasks reflecting the development of the maritime safety policy at eu and international level . given the budget constraints facing the eu , considerable screening and redeployment efforts are necessary to guarantee cost and budget efficiency and to avoid any overlapping . this should allow one third of additional staffing needs for new tasks to be covered through internal redeployment by the agency .


### based on the findings of the external evaluation , the recommendations by the administrative board and the multi - annual strategy , some provisions of regulation no 1406 / 2002 should be clarified and updated . furthermore , the agency should receive a number of additional tasks reflecting the development of the maritime safety policy at eu and international level . considerable screening and redeployment efforts are necessary to guarantee cost and budget efficiency . this should allow one third of additional staffing needs for new tasks to be covered through internal redeployment by the agency . ### based on the findings of the external evaluation , the recommendations by the administrative board and the multi - annual strategy , some provisions of regulation no 1406 / 2002 should be clarified and updated . furthermore , the agency should receive a number of additional tasks reflecting the development of the maritime safety policy at eu and international level . considerable screening and redeployment efforts are necessary to guarantee cost and budget efficiency . staffing needs for the new tasks should be covered as far as possible through internal redeployment by the agency .


### the agency should act in the interest of the union . this should include that the agency may act outside the territory of the eu in its fields of competence . ### the agency should act in the interest of the union and following commission guidelines , with a view to ensuring a high , uniform and effective level of maritime security and protection , and preventing and tackling marine pollution . this should include that the agency may act outside the territory of the eu in its fields of competence .


### where appropriate , and in any case when a cycle of inspections is concluded , the agency shall analyse reports from that cycle with a view to identifying horizontal findings and general conclusions on the effectiveness of the measures in place . the agency shall present this analysis to the commission for further discussion with member states . ### where appropriate , and in any case when a cycle of inspections is concluded , the agency shall analyse reports from that cycle with a view to identifying horizontal findings and general conclusions on the effectiveness and cost - efficiency of the measures in place . the agency shall present this analysis to the commission for further discussion with member states .


### in order to ensure that the objectives set out in article 1 are met in the appropriate manner , the agency shall perform the tasks listed in paragraph 2 of this article in the fields of maritime safety and maritime security , the prevention of pollution caused by ships and response to marine pollution . ### the objectives set out in article 1 represent the primary task of the agency and must be met as a priority . the attribution to the agency of the new tasks listed in paragraph 2 shall be subject to the proper performance of the tasks relating to maritime safety and maritime security , the prevention of pollution caused by ships and response to marine pollution at the request of the member states and the commission .


### in order to ensure that the objectives set out in article 1 are met in the appropriate manner , the agency shall perform the tasks listed in paragraph 2 of this article in the fields of maritime safety and maritime security , the prevention of pollution caused by ships and response to marine pollution . ### in order to ensure that the objectives set out in article 1 are met in the appropriate manner , the agency shall perform the tasks listed in paragraph 2 of this article in the fields of maritime safety and maritime security , the prevention of pollution caused by ships and response to marine pollution . the agency shall assist the commission and the member states , as appropriate , in the development and implementation of the union activities as set out in paragraphs 2 and 3 related to the agency ' s objectives , insofar as the agency has established and recognised expertise and tools . the tasks set out in this article shall : create substantiated added value , avoid duplication of efforts , be in the interest of the union maritime transport policy , not be detrimental to the agency’s core tasks and budget not infringe upon member states’ rights and obligations , in particular as flag states , port states and coastal states .


### in the analysis of ongoing and completed research projects relevant to the fields of activity of the agency ; this shall include the identification of possible regulatory follow - up measures resulting from specific research projects and the identification of key themes and priorities for further research at eu level ; ### in the analysis of ongoing and completed research projects relevant to the fields of activity of the agency ; this shall include the identification of possible regulatory follow - up measures resulting from specific research projects ;


### support with additional means in a cost efficient way , through the eu civil protection mechanism established by decision 2007 / 779 / ec , euratom , their pollution response actions in case of accidental or deliberate marine pollution , when such a request has been presented ; in this respect , the agency shall assist the affected member state under which the cleaning operations are conducted . ### support with additional means in a cost efficient way , through the eu civil protection mechanism established by decision 2007 / 779 / ec , euratom , their pollution response actions in case of accidental or deliberate marine pollution , when such a request has been presented ; in this respect , the agency shall assist the affected member state under which the cleaning operations are conducted , by providing the appropriate technical resources ;


### regarding the investigation of maritime accidents in accordance with directive 2009 / 18 / ec of the european parliament and of the council ; the agency shall provide support to the member states in the conduct of investigations related to serious maritime accidents , and it shall carry out analysis of accident investigation reports with a view to identify added value at eu level in terms of lessons to be learnt ; ### regarding the investigation of maritime accidents in accordance with directive 2009 / 18 / ec of the european parliament and of the council ; the agency shall , if requested by the competent member states , provide support to the member states in the conduct of investigations related to serious maritime accidents , and it shall carry out analysis of accident investigation reports with a view to identify added value at eu level in terms of lessons to be learnt ;


### in providing objective , reliable and comparable statistics , information and data , the agency shall enable the commission and the member states to take the necessary steps to improve their actions and to evaluate the effectiveness of existing measures . such tasks shall include the collection , recording and evaluation of technical data , the systematic exploitation of existing databases , including their cross - fertilisation , and , where appropriate , the development of additional databases . on the basis of the data collected , the agency shall assist the commission in the publication of information relating to ships pursuant to directive 2009 / 16 / ec of the european parliament and of the council34 . the agency shall also assist the commission and the member states in their activities to improve the identification and pursuit of ships making unlawful discharges in the context of directive 2005 / 35 / ec of the european parliament and of the council . ### in providing objective , reliable and comparable statistics , information and data , the agency shall enable the commission and the member states to take the necessary steps to improve their actions and to evaluate the effectiveness and cost - efficiency of existing measures . such tasks shall include the collection , recording and evaluation of technical data , the systematic exploitation of existing databases , including their cross - fertilisation , and , where appropriate , the development of additional databases . on the basis of the data collected , the agency shall assist the commission in the publication of information relating to ships pursuant to directive 2009 / 16 / ec of the european parliament and of the council34 . the agency shall also assist the commission and the member states in their activities to improve the identification and pursuit of ships making unlawful discharges in the context of directive 2005 / 35 / ec of the european parliament and of the council .


### the agency shall at the request of the commission provide technical assistance as regards the implementation of relevant eu legislation to states applying for accession to the union , to all european neighbourhood partner countries and to countries taking part in the paris memorandum of understanding on port state control . ### the agency shall at the request of the commission provide technical assistance as regards the implementation of relevant eu legislation to states applying for accession to the union , to all european neighbourhood partner countries , particularly third countries in the european maritime space including in the framework of the european neighbourhood policy .


### the agency shall at the request of the commission provide technical assistance as regards the implementation of relevant eu legislation to states applying for accession to the union , to all european neighbourhood partner countries and to countries taking part in the paris memorandum of understanding on port state control . ### the agency may at the request of the commission provide technical assistance as regards the implementation of relevant eu legislation to states applying for accession to the union , to all european neighbourhood partner countries , as and when applicable , and to countries taking part in the paris memorandum of understanding on port state control .


### in order to perform the tasks entrusted to it and to assist the commission in fulfilling its duties under the treaty in particular the assessment of the effective implementation of union law , the agency shall carry out inspections in the member states . ### in order to perform the tasks entrusted to it and to assist the commission in fulfilling its duties under the treaty in particular the assessment of the effective implementation of union law , the agency shall carry out inspections in the member states , solely at the request of the commission .


### at the request of the commission , the administrative board may decide , with the agreement of the member states concerned , to establish the regional centres necessary in order to carry out the agency ' s tasks in the most efficient and effective way . ### at the request of the commission , the administrative board may decide , with the agreement of the member states concerned , to establish the regional centres necessary in order to carry out the agency ' s tasks referred to in article 2 in the most efficient and effective way and by defining the precise scope of activities of the regional centre while avoiding unnecessary financial costs .


### adopt a multi - annual strategy for the agency covering a period of five years ahead taking the opinion of the commission into account ; ### adopt a multi - annual strategy for the agency covering a period of five years ahead taking the opinion of the commission and parliament into account ;


### at regular intervals and at least every five years , the administrative board shall commission an independent external evaluation on the implementation of this regulation . the commission shall make available to the agency any information the latter considers relevant to that evaluation . ### at regular intervals and at least every five years , the administrative board shall commission an independent external evaluation on the implementation of this regulation , assessing its relevance , effectiveness and cost - efficiency . the commission shall make available to the agency any information the latter considers relevant to that evaluation .


### having regard to the treaty on the functioning of the european union , and in particular articles 19 , 21 , 114 , 168 , 169 and 197 thereof , ### having regard to the treaty on european union , in particular articles 2 and 3 thereof , and the treaty on the functioning of the european union , and in particular articles 8 , 10 , 19 , 21 , 114 , 168 , 169 and 197 thereof ,


### the european union is founded on the principles of liberty , democracy , respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms and the rule of law , principles which are common to the member states . every citizen of the union has the rights provided for in the treaty . the charter of fundamental rights of the european union , which with the entry into force of the lisbon treaty became legally binding across the union , reflects the fundamental rights and freedoms to which persons are entitled in the union . those rights should be promoted and respected if they are to become a reality . the full enjoyment of those rights should be guaranteed and any obstacles should be dismantled . ### the european union is founded on the principles of liberty , democracy , respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms and the rule of law , principles which are common to the member states . every citizen of the union has the rights provided for in the treaty . the charter of fundamental rights of the european union , which with the entry into force of the lisbon treaty became legally binding across the union , reflects the fundamental rights and freedoms to which persons are entitled in the union . those rights should be properly publicised , promoted and respected if they are to become a reality . the full enjoyment of those rights should be guaranteed and any obstacles should be dismantled .


### the european union is founded on the principles of liberty , democracy , respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms and the rule of law , principles which are common to the member states . ### the european union is founded on the principles of respect for human dignity , liberty , democracy , respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms and the rule of law , principles which are common to the member states .


### citizens should be able to exercise fully the rights deriving from the citizenship of the union . they should be able to exercise their right to move and reside freely in the union , their right to vote for and stand as a candidate in european parliament and municipal elections , their right to consular protection and their right to petition the european parliament . they should feel at ease about living , travelling and working in another member state , trusting that their rights are protected , no matter where in the union they happen to be . ### citizens should be able to exercise fully the rights deriving from the citizenship of the union . they should be able to exercise their right to move and reside freely in the union , their right to vote for and stand as a candidate in european parliament and municipal elections in the country in which they reside , their right to consular protection and their right to petition the european parliament . they should feel at ease about living , travelling and working in another member state , trusting that their rights are protected , no matter where in the union they happen to be .


### citizens should be able to exercise fully the rights deriving from the citizenship of the union . they should be able to exercise their right to move and reside freely in the union , their right to vote for and stand as a candidate in european parliament and municipal elections , their right to consular protection and their right to petition the european parliament . they should feel at ease about living , travelling and working in another member state , trusting that their rights are protected , no matter where in the union they happen to be . ### eu citizens should be able to exercise fully the rights deriving from the citizenship of the union . they should be able to exercise their right to move and reside freely in the union , their right to vote for and stand as a candidate in european parliament and municipal elections , their right to consular protection and their right to petition the european parliament . they should feel at ease about living , travelling and working in another member state , trusting that their rights are protected , no matter where in the union they happen to be .


### citizens should be able to exercise fully the rights deriving from the citizenship of the union . they should be able to exercise their right to move and reside freely in the union , their right to vote for and stand as a candidate in european parliament and municipal elections , their right to consular protection and their right to petition the european parliament . they should feel at ease about living , travelling and working in another member state , trusting that their rights are protected , no matter where in the union they happen to be . ### citizens should be able to exercise fully the rights deriving from the citizenship of the union and from international conventions ratified by the european union , such as the united nations convention on the rights of persons with disabilities . they should be able to exercise their right to move and reside freely in the union , their right to vote for and stand as a candidate in european parliament and municipal elections , their right to consular protection and their right to petition the european parliament in any of the treaty languages . they should feel at ease about living , travelling , studying and working in another member state , trusting that their rights are protected , no matter where in the union they happen to be .


### citizens and businesses should also benefit fully from the internal market . consumers should be able to enjoy the rights deriving from the consumer legislation and businesses should be supported to exercise the freedom to conduct business in the internal market . the development of contract and consumer legislative instruments provides practical solutions for businesses and consumers to address cross - border problems , aiming to offer them more choices and to make it less costly for them to conclude contracts with partners in another member state , while providing a high level of consumer protection . ### eu citizens and businesses should also benefit fully from the internal market . consumers should be able to enjoy the rights deriving from the consumer legislation and businesses should be supported to exercise the freedom to conduct business in the internal market . the development of contract and consumer legislative instruments provides practical solutions for businesses and consumers to address cross - border problems , aiming to offer them more choices and to make it less costly for them to conclude contracts with partners in another member state , while providing a high level of consumer protection .


### non - discrimination based on sex , racial or ethnic origin religion or belief , disability , age or sexual orientation and equality between women and men are values common to the member states . combating all forms of discrimination is an ongoing goal which requires coordinated action , including by the allocation of funding . ### non - discrimination based on sex , racial or ethnic origin , religion or belief , disability , age or sexual orientation , tolerance , solidarity and equality between women and men are values common to the member states . combating all forms of discrimination is an ongoing goal which requires coordinated action , including by the allocation of funding .


### violence against women in all its forms constitutes a violation of fundamental rights and a serious health scourge . such violence is present throughout the union and coordinated action is necessary in order to address it . taking action to combat violence against women contributes to the promotion of equality between women and men . ### violence against women in all its forms constitutes a violation of fundamental rights and a serious health scourge . such violence is present throughout the union and coordinated action is necessary in order to address it . taking action to prevent and combat violence against women contributes to the promotion of equality between women and men .


### the treaty requires the union to promote the protection of the rights of the child pursuant to article 3 of the treaty on european union , while combating discrimination . children are vulnerable , in particular in a situation of poverty , social exclusion , disability or specific situations putting them at risk . action should be taken to promote the rights of the child and contribute to the protection of children from harm and violence , which pose a danger to their physical or mental health . ### the treaty requires the union to promote the protection of the rights of the child pursuant to article 3 of the treaty on european union , while combating discrimination . children are vulnerable , in particular in a situation of poverty , social exclusion , disability or specific situations putting them at risk . action should be taken to promote the rights of the child and contribute to the protection of children from harm , violence and any violation of their personal integrity , which pose a danger to their physical or mental health , and which , owing to unwelcome developments in modern communications technology , have become more varied and harder to pinpoint .


### the treaty requires the union to promote the protection of the rights of the child pursuant to article 3 of the treaty on european union , while combating discrimination . children are vulnerable , in particular in a situation of poverty , social exclusion , disability or specific situations putting them at risk . action should be taken to promote the rights of the child and contribute to the protection of children from harm and violence , which pose a danger to their physical or mental health . ### the treaty requires the union to promote the protection of the rights of the child pursuant to article 3 of the treaty on european union , while combating discrimination . children are vulnerable , in particular in a situation of poverty , social exclusion , disability or specific situations putting them at risk . action should be taken to promote and defend the rights of the child and contribute to the protection of children from harm and violence , which pose a danger to their physical or mental health .


### supporting and promoting the rights of persons within the union , tackling discrimination and inequalities and promoting citizenship contribute to the promotion of the specific objectives and flagship initiatives of the europe 2020 strategy . ### supporting and promoting the rights of persons within the union , tackling discrimination and inequalities and promoting union citizenship contribute to the promotion of the specific objectives and flagship initiatives of the europe 2020 strategy .


### the commission communications ‘ the eu budget review’12 and ‘ a budget for europe 2020’ underline the importance of focusing funding on actions with clear european added value , i . e . where the union intervention can bring additional value compared to action of member states alone . actions covered by this regulation should contribute to the development of mutual trust between member states , increasing cross - border cooperation and networking and achieving correct , coherent and consistent application of union law . funding activities should also contribute to achieving effective and better knowledge of union law and policies by all those concerned and provide a sound analytical basis for the support and the development of union legislation and policies . union intervention allows for those actions to be pursued consistently across the union and brings economies of scale . moreover , the european union is in a better position than member states to address cross - border situations and to provide a european platform for mutual learning . ### the commission communications ‘ the eu budget review’12 and ‘ a budget for europe 2020’ underline the importance of focusing funding on actions with clear european added value , i . e . where the union intervention can bring additional value compared to action of member states alone . actions covered by this regulation should contribute to the development of mutual trust between member states , increasing cross - border cooperation and networking and achieving correct , coherent and consistent application of union law . funding activities should also contribute to achieving effective and better knowledge of union law and policies by all those concerned and provide a sound analytical basis for the support and the development of union legislation and policies , as well as for their enforcement and proper implementation . union intervention allows for those actions to be pursued consistently across the union and brings economies of scale . moreover , the european union is in a better position than member states to address cross - border situations and to provide a european platform for mutual learning .


### the general objective of the programme shall be to contribute to the creation of an area , where the rights of persons , as enshrined in the treaty on the functioning of the european union and the charter of fundamental rights of the european union , are promoted and protected . ### the general objective of the programme shall be to contribute to the creation of an area , where the rights of persons , as enshrined in the treaty on the functioning of the european union and the charter of fundamental rights of the european union , are fully respected , promoted and protected .


### the general objective of the programme shall be to contribute to the creation of an area , where the rights of persons , as enshrined in the treaty on the functioning of the european union and the charter of fundamental rights of the european union , are promoted and protected . ### the general objective of the programme shall be to contribute to the creation of an area , where the rights of persons , as enshrined in the treaty on the functioning of the european union , the charter of fundamental rights of the european union and the united nations convention on the rights of persons with disabilities , are promoted and protected .


### to contribute to enhancing the exercise of rights deriving from the citizenship of the union ; ### to contribute to improving knowledge and raising awareness of rights deriving from the citizenship of the union , encouraging people to exercise them more frequently ;


### to promote the effective implementation of the principles of non discrimination on the grounds of sex , racial or ethnic origin , religion or belief , disability , age or sexual orientation , including equality between women and men and the rights of persons with disabilities and of the elderly ; ### to promote the effective implementation of the principles of non discrimination on the grounds of sex , racial or ethnic origin , nationality , religion or belief , disability , age or sexual orientation , including equality between women and men and the rights of persons with disabilities and of the elderly ;


### the indicators to measure the achievement of the objectives set out in paragraph 1 shall be , inter alia , the european perception of the respect , exercise and implementation of these rights and the number of complaints . ### the indicators to measure the achievement of the objectives set out in paragraph 1 shall be , inter alia , the european perception of the respect , exercise and implementation of these rights , as well as the number and subjects of complaints regarding failures in their protection .


### enhancing public awareness and knowledge of union law and policies ; ### enhancing public awareness and knowledge of union law and policies , including at the level of local communities and of the citizens ;


### promoting transnational cooperation and building up of mutual knowledge and mutual trust among all involved stakeholders ; ### promoting transnational cooperation and building up of mutual knowledge and mutual trust among all involved stakeholders , including at regional and local level ;


### mutual learning , cooperation , awareness raising and dissemination activities , such as identification of , and exchanges on , good practices , innovative approaches and experiences , organisation of peer review and mutual learning ; organisation of conferences and seminars ; organisation of awareness - raising and information campaigns , media campaigns and events , including corporate communication of the political priorities of the european union ; compilation and publication of materials to disseminate information as well as results of the programme ; development , operation and maintenance of systems and tools using information and communication technologies ; ### mutual learning , cooperation , awareness raising and dissemination activities , such as identification of , and exchanges on , good practices , innovative approaches and experiences , organisation of peer review and mutual learning ; organisation of conferences and seminars ; organisation of awareness - raising and information campaigns , media campaigns and events , including corporate communication of the political priorities of the european union , particularly in the form of cooperation with public media organisations ; compilation and publication of materials to disseminate information as well as results of the programme ; development , operation and maintenance of systems and tools using information and communication technologies as well as an internet presence , including relevant websites , platforms , blogs or the use of web 2 . 0 ;


### support for main actors , such as support for member states when implementing union law and policies ; support for key european level networks whose activities are linked to the implementation of the objectives of the programme ; networking among specialised bodies and organisations , national , regional and local authorities at european level ; funding of experts ' networks ; funding of european level observatories . ### support for main actors , such as support for member states when implementing union law and policies ; support for key european level networks whose activities are linked to the implementation of the objectives of the programme ; support for non - governmental organisations carrying out activities in the fields covered by the programme ; networking among specialised bodies and organisations , national , regional and local authorities at european level ; funding of experts ' networks ; funding of european level observatories .


### ‘ infrastructure manager’ means any body or firm ensuring the development , operation and maintenance of railway infrastructure on a network ; development includes network planning , financial and investment planning as well as building and upgrades of the infrastructure ; operation of the infrastructure includes all elements of the process of train path allocation , including both the definition and the assessment of availability and the allocation of individual paths , traffic management and infrastructure charging , including determination and collection of the charges ; maintenance includes infrastructure renewals and the other asset management activities’ ; ### ‘ infrastructure manager’ means any body or firm ensuring , in particular , the development , operation and maintenance of railway infrastructure on a network ; development includes network planning , financial and investment planning as well as building and upgrades of the infrastructure ; operation of the infrastructure includes all elements of the process of train path allocation , including both the definition and the assessment of availability and the allocation of individual paths , traffic management and infrastructure charging , including determination and collection of the charges ; maintenance shall include infrastructure renewals and other asset management activities ;


### member states shall also ensure the same legal or natural person or persons are not allowed : ### member states shall also ensure the same legal or natural person or persons are not allowed , directly or indirectly :


### to appoint members of the supervisory board , the administrative board or bodies legally representing an infrastructure manager , and at the same time to directly or indirectly exercise control , hold any financial interest in or exercise any right over a railway undertaking ; ### to appoint the director - general , members of the supervisory board , the administrative board , the board of directors or bodies legally representing an infrastructure manager , and at the same time to directly or indirectly exercise control , hold any financial interest in or exercise any right over a railway undertaking ;


### provided that no conflict of interest arises and that confidentiality of commercially sensitive information is guaranteed , the infrastructure manager may subcontract specific development , renewal and maintenance works , over which it shall keep the decision - making power , to railway undertakings or to any other body acting under the supervision of the infrastructure manager . ### provided that no conflict of interest arises and that confidentiality of commercially sensitive information is guaranteed , the infrastructure manager may subcontract specific development , renewal and maintenance works , over which it shall keep the decision - making power , to railway undertakings or to any other body acting under the supervision of the infrastructure manager . these subcontracting arrangements shall be consistent with the rules governing competitive tendering and , where appropriate , public contracts . the infrastructure manager shall retain responsibility for the subcontracted works .


### member states shall communicate to the commission the text of the main provisions of national law which they adopt in the field covered by this directive . ### member states shall communicate to the commission the text of the main provisions of national law which they adopt in the field covered by this directive . the commission shall draw up an annual summary of these communications and forward it , in all the working languages , to the council and parliament .


### this directive shall enter into force on the day following that of its publication in the official journal of the european union . ### this directive shall enter into force on the day following that of its publication in the official journal of the european union . it shall be made available in consolidated form within three months of its entry into force .


### the union and the member states should improve the consistency and the complementarity of their respective policies on development cooperation , in particular by responding to partner countries ' and regions ' priorities at country and regional level . to ensure that the union ' s development cooperation policy and that of the member states complement and reinforce each other , it is appropriate to provide for joint programming procedures which should be implemented whenever possible and relevant . ### the union and the member states should improve the consistency , the complementarity and the efficiency of their respective policies on development cooperation , in particular by responding to partner countries ' and regions ' priorities at country and regional level . to ensure that the union ' s development cooperation policy and that of the member states complement and reinforce each other , it is appropriate to provide for joint programming procedures which should be implemented whenever possible and relevant .


### union assistance should focus where it has more impact , having regard to its capacity to act on a global scale and respond to global challenges such as poverty eradication , sustainable and inclusive development and worldwide promotion of democracy , good governance , human rights and the rule of law , its long - term and predictable commitment to development assistance and its role in coordinating with its member states . to ensure such impact , the principle of differentiation should be applied not only at the level of funds allocation , but also at the level of programming , to ensure that bilateral development cooperation targets partner countries most in need , including fragile states and states with high vulnerability , and with limited capacity to have access to other sources of financing for supporting their own development , having regard to the potential impact of the union assistance in partner countries . as a consequence , bilateral programming would target such countries , pursuant to the application of objective criteria based on the needs and capacities of these countries , as well as the impact of eu assistance . ### union assistance should focus where it has more impact , having regard to its capacity to act on a global scale and respond to global challenges such as poverty eradication , sustainable and inclusive development and worldwide promotion of democracy , good governance , human rights and the rule of law , its long - term and standing commitment to development assistance and its role in coordinating its actions with its member states . to ensure such impact , the principle of differentiation should be applied not only at the level of funds allocation , but also at the level of programming , to ensure that bilateral development cooperation targets partner countries most in need , including fragile states and states with high vulnerability , and with limited capacity to have access to other sources of financing for supporting their own development , having regard to the potential impact of the union assistance in partner countries . as a consequence , bilateral programming would target such countries , pursuant to the application of objective criteria based on the needs and capacities of these countries , as well as the impact of eu assistance .


### particular attention shall be given to strengthening the rule of law , improving access to justice and supporting civil society , trade and sustainable development , access to icts , health and food security , as well as promoting dialogue , participation and reconciliation , and institution - building . ### particular attention shall be given to strengthening the rule of law , improving access to justice and supporting civil society , supporting decentralisation , trade and sustainable development , access to icts , health and food security , as well as promoting dialogue , participation and reconciliation , and institution - building , including at regional and local level .


### inclusive and participatory approaches to development and a broad involvement of all segments of society in the development process and in national and regional dialogue , including political dialogue ; ### inclusive and participatory approaches to development and a broad involvement of all segments of society , in particular civil society organizations , in the development process and in national and regional dialogue , including political dialogue ;


### the commission shall seek regular exchanges of information with civil society . ### the commission shall seek regular exchanges of information with civil society and local and regional authorities .


### within each country programme , the union will in principle concentrate its assistance on three sectors . ### within each country programme , the union will in principle concentrate its assistance on three sectors identified with the involvement of civil society , in order to respond to the real needs of the country and community .


### the objective of the programme on civil society organisations and local authorities in development shall be to finance initiatives in the area of development by or for civil society organisations and local authorities originating from partner countries , the union , candidate countries and potential candidates . ### the objective of the programme on civil society organisations and local authorities in development shall be to finance initiatives in the area of development by or for civil society organisations and local authorities originating from partner countries , the union , candidate countries and potential candidates . particular attention should be given to those civil society organizations which are basic services providers , such as education and healthcare services .


### to that end , strategy papers shall , in principle , be based on a dialogue between the union and the partner country or region , involving where appropriate , the relevant member states , and the partner country or region , involving civil society and regional and local authorities , so as to ensure that the country or region concerned takes sufficient ownership of the process and to encourage support for national development strategies , particularly those for reducing poverty . ### to that end , strategy papers shall , in principle , be based on a dialogue between the union and the partner country or region , involving the relevant member states , and the partner country or region , involving civil society and regional and local authorities through their representative associations , so as to ensure that the country or region concerned takes sufficient ownership of the process and to encourage support for national development strategies , particularly those for reducing poverty . this dialogue takes place following a consultation and information phase for local and regional authorities and civil society .


### proper attention should be given to conflict prevention , state and peace building , post - conflict reconciliation and reconstruction measures . ### priority should be given to conflict prevention , state and peace building , post - conflict reconciliation and reconstruction measures .


### business environment , regional integration and world markets ; and ### business environment , regional integration and world markets ;


### sustainable agriculture and energy . ### sustainable agriculture and energy ; and


### interventions in partner countries which support vulnerable and marginalised groups in least developed countries by providing basic services delivered through civil society organisations and local authorities ; ### interventions in partner countries which support vulnerable and marginalised groups in least developed countries by improving local governance and providing basic services delivered through local authorities , and by facilitating their participation and representation in local life and in the development process through civil society organisations .


### local authorities encompass a large variety of sub - national levels and branches of government , i . e . municipalities , communities , districts , counties , provinces , regions etc . ### local authorities encompass a large variety of sub - national levels and branches of government , i . e . municipalities , communities , districts , counties , provinces , regions , and their associations at national , regional and global level .


### the european council has asked member states to inform from 1 january 2012 the commission on all their new and existing bilateral energy agreements with third countries . the commission should make this information available to all other member states in an appropriate form , having regard to the need for protection of commercially sensitive information . ### the european council has asked member states to inform from 1 january 2012 the commission on all their new and existing bilateral energy agreements with third countries . the commission should make this information available to all other member states in an appropriate form , having regard to the need for protection of commercially sensitive information , as well as the preservation of eu strategic interests .


### the proper functioning of the internal energy market requires that the energy imported into the union from third countries , is fully governed by the rules establishing an internal energy market . an internal energy market that is not functioning properly puts the eu in a vulnerable position with regard to security of energy supply . a high degree of transparency with regard to agreements between member states and third countries in the field of energy would allow the union to take coordinated action , in a spirit of solidarity , in order to ensure that such agreements are in accordance with union legislation and effectively secure the supply of energy . ### the proper functioning of the internal energy market requires that the energy imported into the union from third countries , is fully governed by the rules establishing an internal energy market . an internal energy market that is not functioning properly puts the eu in a vulnerable position with regard to security of energy supply , while at the same time diminishing its political leverage at international level . a high degree of transparency with regard to agreements between member states and third countries in the field of energy would allow the union to take coordinated action , in a spirit of solidarity , in order to ensure that such agreements are in accordance with union legislation and effectively secure the supply of energy .


### the new information exchange mechanism should only cover intergovernmental agreements which are likley to have an impact on the internal market for energy or on the security of energy supply as these two issues are intrinsically linked . it should comprise in particular all intergovernmental agreements which have an impact on the supply of gas , oil or electricity through fixed infrastructure or which have an impact on the amount of energy imported into the union from third countries . ### the new information exchange mechanism should only cover intergovernmental agreements which are likely to have an impact on the internal market for energy or on the security of energy supply as these two issues are intrinsically linked . it should comprise in particular all intergovernmental agreements which have an impact on the supply of gas , oil or electricity through fixed infrastructure .


### member states should already notify the intention to open negotiations to the commission with regard to new intergovernmental agreements or amendments to existing intergovernmental agreements . the commission should be kept informed regularly on the ongoing negotiations . it should have the right to participate as an observer in the negotiations . member states may also request the commission to assist them during their negotiations with third countries . ### member states should notify the commission when negociations on a new intergovernmental agreement or amendments to existing intergovernmental agreements have been started . the commission should be kept informed regularly on the ongoing negotiations . member states may invite the commission to participate as an observer in the negotiations . member states may also request the commission to assist them during their negotiations with third countries .


### member states should already notify the intention to open negotiations to the commission with regard to new intergovernmental agreements or amendments to existing intergovernmental agreements . the commission should be kept informed regularly on the ongoing negotiations . it should have the right to participate as an observer in the negotiations . member states may also request the commission to assist them during their negotiations with third countries . ### member states should already notify the intention to open negotiations to the commission with regard to new intergovernmental agreements or amendments to existing intergovernmental agreements . the commission should be kept informed regularly on the ongoing negotiations . it should have the right to participate as an observer in the negotiations , following a written approval by the member state in question . member states may also request the commission to assist them during their negotiations with third countries .


### the commission should make all received information available to all other member states in electronic form . the commission should respect requests from member states to treat information , in particular commercial information , submitted as confidential . requests for confidentiality should however not restrict access of the commission itself to confidential information as the commission needs to have comprehensive information for its own assessment . the requests for confidentiality are without prejudice to the right of access to documents as provided for in regulation no 1049 / 2001 of the european parliament and of the council of 30 may 2001 regarding public access to european parliament , council and commission documents . ### the commission should make all received non - confidential information available to all other member states in electronic form . the commission should respect requests from member states to treat information , in particular commercial information , submitted as confidential . requests for confidentiality should however not restrict access of the commission itself to confidential information as the commission needs to have comprehensive information for its own assessment . the commission is responsible for guaranteeing the application of the confidentiality clause and its legal consequences . the requests for confidentiality are without prejudice to the right of access to documents as provided for in regulation no 1049 / 2001 of the european parliament and of the council of 30 may 2001 regarding public access to european parliament , council and commission documents .