### member states may require , in addition to the disclosure referred to in paragraphs 1 , 2 and 3 that the common draft terms of the cross - border merger , or the information referred to in paragraph 3 , is published in their national gazette . in that instance , member states shall ensure that the registers referred to in article 16 transmit the relevant information to the national gazette . ### member states may require , in addition to the disclosure referred to in paragraphs 1 , 2 and 3 that the common draft terms of the cross - border merger , or the information referred to in paragraph 3 , is published in their national gazette . in that instance , in accordance with the principle of the once - only transmission of information in the eu , member states shall ensure that the registers referred to in article 16 transmit the relevant information to the national gazette .


### member states shall ensure that the following members of a company carrying cross - border conversion have the right to dispose of their shareholdings under the conditions laid down in paragraphs 2 to 6 : ### member states may provide that the following members of a company carrying out cross - border conversion have the right to dispose of their shareholdings under the conditions laid down in paragraphs 2 to 6 :


### the members holding shares with voting rights and who did not vote for the approval of the common draft terms of the cross - border merger ; ### the members holding shares with voting rights who at the general meeting voted for the approval of the common draft terms of the cross - border merger and voiced their intent to make use of the exit right ;


### the members holding shares with voting rights and , who did not vote for the approval of the draft terms of the cross - border division ; ### the members holding shares with voting rights , who at the general meeting voted against the approval of the draft terms of the cross - border division and voiced their intent to make use of the exit right ;


### the members holding shares with voting rights and who did not vote for the approval of the draft terms of the cross - border conversion ; ### the members holding shares with voting rights who at the general meeting voted against the approval of the draft terms of the cross - border conversion and voiced their intent to make use of the exit right ;


### the members holding shares without voting rights . ### the members holding shares without voting rights , who voiced their intent to make use of the exit right at the general meeting .


### member states shall ensure that a company being divided makes an offer of adequate cash compensation in the draft terms of the cross - border division as specified in article 160e to the members , referred to in paragraph 1 of this article , who wish to exercise their right to dispose of their shareholdings . member states shall also establish the period for the acceptance of the offer which shall not in any event exceed one month after the general meeting referred to in article 160k . member states shall further ensure that a company is able to accept an offer communicated electronically to an address provided by the company for that purpose . ### member states shall ensure that a company being divided makes an offer of adequate cash compensation in the draft terms of the cross - border division as specified in article 160e to the members , referred to in paragraph 1 of this article , who wish to exercise their right to dispose of their shareholdings . member states shall also establish the period for the acceptance of the offer which shall not in any event exceed one month after the general meeting referred to in article 160k . member states shall further ensure that a company is able to accept an offer valid for information purposes and communicated electronically to an address provided by the company for that purpose . national law on the form and validity of contracts for the sale and transfer of shares in undertakings shall remain unaffected .


### member states shall ensure that any member who has accepted the offer of cash compensation referred to in paragraph 3 , but who considers that the cash compensation has not been adequately set , is entitled to demand the recalculation of the cash compensation offered before a national court within one month of the acceptance of the offer . ### member states shall ensure that any member who has accepted the offer of cash compensation referred to in paragraph 3 , but who considers that the cash compensation has not been adequately set , is entitled to demand the recalculation of the cash compensation offered before a national court within 15 days of the acceptance of the offer . the court shall be assisted by an expert to recalculate the cash compensation .


### member states shall provide that any member who has accepted the offer of cash compensation referred to in paragraph 3 , but who considers that the compensation has not been adequately set , is entitled to demand the recalculation of the cash compensation offered before a national court within one month of the acceptance of the offer . ### member states shall provide that any member who has not accepted the offer of cash compensation referred to in paragraph 3 , and who considers that the compensation has not been adequately set , is entitled to demand the recalculation of the cash compensation offered before a national court within one month of the time limit set for the acceptance of the offer .


### member states shall ensure that creditors of the merging companies who are dissatisfied with the protection of their interests as provided for in the common draft terms of the cross - border merger , as provided for in article 122 , may apply to the appropriate administrative or judicial authority for adequate safeguards within one month of the disclosure referred to in article 123 . ### member states shall ensure that creditors of the merging companies whose claims originate before the cross - border merger who are dissatisfied with the protection of their interests as provided for in the common draft terms of the cross - border merger , as provided for in article 122 , may apply to the appropriate administrative or judicial authority for adequate safeguards within one month of the disclosure referred to in article 123 .


### member states shall ensure that creditors , who are dissatisfied with the protection of their interests provided for in the draft terms of the cross - border division , as provided for in article 160e , may apply to the appropriate administrative or judicial authority for adequate safeguards within one month of the disclosure referred to in article 160j . ### member states shall ensure that creditors may apply to the appropriate administrative or judicial authority for adequate safeguards within one month of the disclosure referred to in article 160j if they are of the opinion that they have been prejudiced despite the protection of their interests set down in article 160e .


### member states shall ensure that creditors who are dissatisfied with the protection of their interests provided for in the draft terms of the cross - border conversion , as provided for in article 86d , may apply to the appropriate administrative or judicial authority for adequate safeguards within one month of the disclosure referred to in article 86h . ### member states shall ensure that creditors may apply to the appropriate administrative or judicial authority for adequate safeguards within one month of the disclosure referred to in article 86h if they are of the opinion that they have been prejudiced despite the protection of their interests set down in article 86d .


### where creditors are offered a right to payment , either against a third party guarantor , or against the company resulting from the cross - border conversion of at least equivalent value to their original claim , which may be brought in the same jurisdiction as their original claim , and which is of a credit quality at least commensurate with the creditor ' s original claim immediately after the completion of the conversion . ### where creditors are offered a right to payment , either against a third party guarantor , or against the company resulting from the cross - border conversion of at least the actual value of their original claim , which may be brought in the same jurisdiction as their original claim , and which is of a credit quality at least commensurate with the creditor ' s original claim .


### the reports referred to in articles 86e , 86f and 86g , as appropriate ; ### the reports referred to in articles 86e and 86g ;


### ' member states shall ensure that the application for obtaining a pre - merger certificate by the merging companies including submission of any information and documents may be completed online in its entirety without the necessity to appear in person before the competent authority referred to in paragraph 1 . however , in cases of genuine suspicion of fraud based on reasonable grounds member states may require a physical presence before a competent authority where relevant information and documents are required to be submitted . ' ; ### member states shall ensure that the application for obtaining a pre - merger certificate by the merging companies including submission of any information and documents may be completed online in its entirety without the necessity to appear in person before the competent authority or any other person or authority entrusted with processing the application referred to in paragraph 1 . however , member states may , in justified exceptional cases of overriding reasons of public interest require a physical presence before any competent authority , or before any other person or body dealing with , making or assisting in making the online disclosure , where relevant information and documents are required to be submitted . member states shall lay down detailed rules for the online disclosure of documents and information referred to in paragraphs 1 and 3 . article 13f paragraphs 3 and 4 shall apply accordingly . '


### however , in cases of genuine suspicion of fraud based on reasonable grounds , member states may require a physical presence before a competent authority where relevant information and documents are required to be submitted . ### however , member states may , in justified exceptional cases of overriding reasons of public interest , require a physical presence before any competent authority , or before any other person or body dealing with , making or assisting in making the online disclosure , where relevant information and documents are required to be submitted . member states shall lay down detailed rules for the online disclosure of documents and information referred to in paragraph 1 and 3 . article 13f paragraphs 3 and 4 shall apply accordingly .


### however , in cases of genuine suspicion of fraud based on reasonable grounds , member states may require a physical presence before a competent authority of a member state where relevant information and documents are required to be submitted . ### however , member states may , in justified exceptional cases of overriding reasons of public interest , require a physical presence before any competent authority , or before any other person or body dealing with , making or assisting in making the online disclosure , of a member state where relevant information and documents are required to be submitted .


### however , in cases of genuine suspicion of fraud based on reasonable grounds , member states may require a physical presence before a competent authority where relevant information and documents are required to be submitted . ### member states shall lay down detailed rules for the on - line application referred to in paragraph 2 . articles 13b and 13f and shall apply accordingly .


### however , in cases of genuine suspicion of fraud based on reasonable grounds , member states may require a physical presence before a competent authority of a member state where relevant information and documents are required to be submitted . ### member states shall lay down detailed rules for the on - line application made in accordance with paragraph 1 . articles 13b and 13f and shall apply accordingly .


### however , in cases of genuine suspicion of fraud based on reasonable grounds , member states may require a physical presence before a competent authority of a member state where relevant information and documents are required be submitted . ### however , member states may in justified exceptional cases of overriding reasons of public interest , require a physical presence before any competent authority , or before any other person or body dealing with , making or assisting in making the online disclosure , where relevant information and documents are required to be submitted .


### member states shall ensure in order to assess whether the cross - border conversion constitutes an artificial arrangement within the meaning of article 86c , that the competent authority of the departure member state carries out an in - depth assessment of all relevant facts and circumstances and shall take into account at a minimum the following : the characteristics of the establishment in the destination member state , including the intent , the sector , the investment , the net turnover and profit or loss , number of employees , the composition of the balance sheet , the tax residence , the assets and their location , the habitual place of work of the employees and of specific groups of employees , the place where social contributions are due and the commercial risks assumed by the converted company in the destination member state and the departure member state . ### member states may ensure in order to assess whether the cross - border conversion constitutes an artificial arrangement within the meaning of article 86c , that the competent authority of the departure member state carries out an in - depth assessment of all relevant facts and circumstances , if there are strong , objective suspicions that the company is conducting the cross border conversion in order to avoid or breach the law of the departure member state . an in - depth assessment shall take into account at a minimum the following : the characteristics of the establishment in the destination member state , including the intent , the sector , the investment , the net turnover and profit or loss , number of employees , the composition of the balance sheet , the tax residence , the assets and their location , the habitual place of work of the employees and of specific groups of employees , the place where social contributions are due and the commercial risks assumed by the converted company in the destination member state and the departure member state .


### article 160greport of the management or administrative organ to the members ### article 160g report of the management or administrative organ to the members and to the employees


### report of the management or administrative organ to the members ### report of the management or administrative organ to the members and employees


### article 86e report of the management or administrative organ to the members ### article 86e report of the management or administrative organ to the members and to the employees


### member states shall ensure that the company being divided applies to the competent authority , designated in accordance with article 160o , not less than two months before the date of the general meeting referred to in article 160k , to appoint an expert to examine and assess the draft terms of cross - border division and the reports referred to in articles 160g and 160h , subject to the proviso set out in paragraph 6 of this article . ### member states may decide that a company shall apply , designated in accordance with article 160o , not less than two months before the date of the general meeting referred to in article 160k , to appoint an expert to examine and assess the draft terms of cross - border division and the reports referred to in articles 160g , subject to the proviso set out in paragraph 6 of this article .


### member states shall ensure that the company being divided applies to the competent authority , designated in accordance with article 160o , not less than two months before the date of the general meeting referred to in article 160k , to appoint an expert to examine and assess the draft terms of cross - border division and the reports referred to in articles 160g and 160h , subject to the proviso set out in paragraph 6 of this article . ### member states shall ensure that the company being divided applies to the competent authority , designated in accordance with article 160o , not less than five months before the date of the general meeting referred to in article 160k , to appoint an expert to examine and assess the draft terms of cross - border division and the reports referred to in articles 160g and 160h , subject to the proviso set out in paragraph 6 of this article .


### the reports referred to in articles 160g and 160h . ### the report referred to in article 160g .


### where creditors are offered a right to payment , either against a third party guarantor , or against the recipient companies , or in case of a partial division against the recipient company and a company being divided , of at least equivalent value to their original claim , which may be brought in the same jurisdiction as their original claim , and which is of a credit quality at least commensurate with the creditor’s original claim immediately after the completion of the division . ### where creditors are offered a right to payment , either against a third party guarantor , or against the recipient companies , or in case of a partial division against the recipient company and a company being divided , of at least equivalent value to their original claim , which may be brought in the same jurisdiction as their original claim , and which is of a credit quality at least commensurate with the creditor’s original claim .


### the reports referred to in articles 160g , 160h and 160i , as appropriate ; ### the reports referred to in articles 160g and 160i ;


### member states shall ensure in order to assess whether the cross - border division constitutes an artificial arrangement within the meaning of article 160d of this directive , the competent authority of the company being divided shall carry out an in - depth assessment of all relevant facts and circumstances and shall take into account at a minimum the following : the characteristics of the establishment in the member states concerned , including the intent , the sector , the investment , the net turnover and profit or loss , number of employees , the composition of the balance sheet , the tax residence , the assets and their location , the habitual place of work of the employees and of specific groups of employees , the place where social contributions are due and the commercial risks assumed by the company being divided in the member state of that company and member states of recipient companies . ### member states may ensure , that the competent authority of the company being divided carry out an in - depth assessment of all relevant facts and circumstances , if there are strong , objective suspicions that the company is conducting the cross - border division in order to avoid or breach the law of its member state . an in - depth assessment shall take into account at a minimum the following : the characteristics of the establishment in the member states concerned , including the intent , the sector , the investment , the net turnover and profit or loss , number of employees , the composition of the balance sheet , the tax residence , the assets and their location , the habitual place of work of the employees and of specific groups of employees , the place where social contributions are due and the commercial risks assumed by the company being divided in the member state of that company and member states of recipient companies .


### member states shall lay down rules governing at least the civil liability of the independent experts responsible for drawing up the report referred to in articles 160i and 160m , including in respect of any misconduct on their part in the performance of their duties . ### member states shall lay down rules governing at least the civil liability , towards the creditors , of the independent experts responsible for drawing up the report referred to in article 160m , in respect of any misconduct on their part in the performance of their duties .


### equality between men and women is a fundamental principle of the union . according to article 3 of the treaty on european union the promotion of equality between women and men is one of the union ' s aims . similarly , article 23 of the charter of fundamental rights of the european union requires equality between women and men to be ensured in all areas , including employment , work and pay . ### equality between men and women is a fundamental principle of the union . according to article 3 of the treaty on european union the promotion of equality between women and men is one of the union ' s aims . similarly , article 23 of the charter of fundamental rights of the european union requires equality between women and men to be ensured in all areas , including employment , work and pay . this directive contributes to these objectives by eliminating disparities , strengthening gender equality , promoting a high level of employment and consolidating the social dimension in the union , as well as boosting upward convergence in the member states in terms of social benefits .


### article 33 of the charter of fundamental rights of the european union provides for the right to protection from dismissal for a reason connected with maternity and the right to paid maternity leave and to parental leave following the birth or adoption of a child , to reconcile family and professional life . ### article 33 of the charter of fundamental rights of the european union provides for legal , economic and social protection , the right to protection from dismissal for a reason connected with maternity and the right to paid maternity leave and to parental leave following the birth or adoption of a child , to reconcile family and professional life .


### the current union legal framework provides limited incentives for men to assume an equal share of caring responsibilities . lack of paid paternity and parental leave in many member states contributes to the low take - up of such leave by fathers . the imbalance in the design of work - life balance policies between women and men reinforces gender differences between work and care . conversely , use of work - life balance arrangements by fathers , such as leave or flexible working arrangements , has been shown to have a positive impact in reducing the relative amount of unpaid family work undertaken by women and leaving them more time for paid employment . ### the current union legal framework provides limited incentives for men to assume an equal share of caring responsibilities . there are currently no harmonised union rules providing for paternity leave or leave to take care of ill or dependant relatives , with exception of absence for reasons of force majeure . lack of paid paternity and parental leave in many member states contributes to the low take - up of such leave by fathers . the imbalance in the design of work - life balance policies between women and men reinforces gender differences between work and care . conversely , use of work - life balance arrangements by fathers , such as leave , sufficient incentives to avail themselves of such leave or flexible working arrangements , has been shown to have a positive impact in reducing the relative amount of unpaid family work undertaken by women and leaving them more time for paid employment .


### it is appropriate to repeal and replace directive 2010 / 18 / eu which currently regulates parental leave by putting into effect a framework agreement concluded between the social partners . this directive builds , in particular , upon the rules laid down in directive 2010 / 18 / eu and complements them by strengthening existing rights and by introducing new rights . ### it is appropriate to repeal and replace directive 2010 / 18 / eu which currently regulates parental leave by putting into effect a framework agreement concluded between the social partners . this directive builds , in particular , upon the rules laid down in directive 2010 / 18 / eu and complements them by strengthening existing rights and by introducing new rights . nothing in the proposed directive should be interpreted as diminishing previously existing rights under the parental leave directive .


### this directive lays down minimum requirements related to paternity , parental and carers ' leave and to flexible working arrangements for parents and workers with caring responsibilities . by facilitating the reconciliation of work and family life for parents and carers , this directive should contribute to the treaty - based goals of equality between men and women with regard to labour market opportunities , equal treatment at work and the promotion of a high level of employment in the union . ### this directive lays down minimum requirements related to paternity , parental and carers ' leave and to flexible working arrangements for parents and workers with caring responsibilities , while respecting national rules on leave and flexible working arrangements in line with the requirements of this directive and enabling member states and social partners to determine the specific provisions thereof . the directive fully respects the freedom and preferences of workers and families to organise their lives and does not impose on them any obligation to avail themselves of its provisions . if a wide margin of decision - making manoeuvre is achieved at individual and national level , by facilitating the reconciliation of work and family life for parents and facilitating the reconciliation of work and family life for parents and carers , this directive should contribute to the treaty - based goals of equality between men and women with regard to labour market opportunities , equal treatment at work and the promotion of a high level of employment in the union .


### in order to encourage a more equal sharing of caring responsibilities between women and men , the right to paternity leave for fathers to be taken on the occasion of the birth of a child should be introduced . in order to take account of differences among member states , the right to paternity leave should be irrespective of marital or family status as defined in national law . ### in order to encourage a more equal sharing of caring responsibilities between women and men , the right to paternity leave for fathers to be taken , if requested , on the occasion of the birth or adoption of a child should be introduced . in order to take account of differences among member states , the right to paternity leave should be irrespective of marital or family status as defined in national law irrespective of seniority or the nature of the employment contract .


### as the majority of fathers do not avail themselves of their right to parental leave or transfer a considerable proportion of their leave entitlement to mothers , in order to encourage the second parent to take parental leave , this directive , while maintaining the right of each parent to at least four months of parental leave currently provided for by directive 2010 / 18 / eu , extends from one to four months the period of parental leave which cannot be transferred from one parent to the other . ### as the majority of fathers do not avail themselves of their right to parental leave or transfer a considerable proportion of their leave entitlement to mothers , in order to encourage the second parent to take parental leave , this directive , while maintaining the right of each parent to at least four months of parental leave currently provided for by directive 2010 / 18 / eu , continues to stipulate that the period of parental leave that cannot be transferred from one parent to the other is one month .


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


### in order to encourage working parents and carers to remain in the work force , those workers should be able to adapt their working schedules to their personal needs and preferences . working parents and carers should therefore be able to request flexible working arrangements , meaning the possibility for workers to adjust their working patterns , including through the use of remote working arrangements , flexible working schedules , or a reduction in working hours , for caring purposes . in order to address the needs of workers and employers , it should be possible for member states to limit the duration of flexible working arrangements , including a reduction in working hours . while working part - time has been shown to be useful in allowing some women to remain in the labour market after having children , long periods of reduced working hours may lead to lower social security contributions translating into reduced or non - existing pension entitlements . the ultimate decision as to whether or not to accept a worker’s request for flexible working arrangements should lie with the employer , specific circumstances underlying the need for flexible working arrangements can change . workers should therefore not only have the right to return to their original working patterns at the end of a given agreed period , but should also be able to request to do so at any time where a change in the underlying circumstances so requires . ### in order to encourage working parents and carers to remain in the work force , those workers should be able to adapt their working schedules to their personal needs and preferences , without , however , abusing this right . working parents and carers should therefore be able to request flexible working arrangements , meaning the possibility for workers to adjust their working patterns , including through the use of remote working arrangements , flexible working schedules , or a reduction in working hours , for caring purposes . in order to address the needs of workers and employers and ensure that they are properly balanced , it should be possible for member states to limit the duration of flexible working arrangements , including provisions for reduced working hours . while working part - time has been shown to be useful in allowing some women to remain in the labour market after having children , long periods of reduced working hours may lead to lower social security contributions translating into reduced or non - existing pension entitlements . the ultimate decision as to whether or not to accept a worker’s request for flexible working arrangements should lie with the employer . specific circumstances underlying the need for flexible working arrangements can change . workers should therefore not only have the right to return to their original working patterns at the end of a given agreed period , but should also be able to request to do so at any time where a change in the underlying circumstances so requires .


### this directive applies to all workers , men and women , who have an employment contract or employment relationship . ### this directive applies to all workers , both men and women , who have an employment contract or employment relationship as defined by the law , collective agreements or practice in force in each member state .


### member states shall take the necessary measures to ensure that workers with children up to a given age , which shall be at least twelve , and carers , have the right to request flexible working arrangements for caring purposes . the duration of such flexible working arrangements may be subject to a reasonable limitation . ### member states shall take the necessary measures to ensure that workers with children up to a given age , which shall be at least twelve , and carers , have the right to request flexible working arrangements for caring purposes . in order to ensure a proper balance between the needs of workers and employers respectively , the duration of such flexible working arrangements may be subject to a reasonable limitation .


### member states shall ensure that the body or bodies designated , pursuant to article 20 of directive 2006 / 54 / ec , for the promotion , analysis , monitoring and support of equal treatment of parents and carers without discrimination on grounds of sex are also competent for issues falling within the scope of this directive . ### without prejudice to the powers of the labour inspection services or other bodies , including social services , responsible for monitoring workers ' rights , member states shall ensure that the body or bodies designated , pursuant to article 20 of directive 2006 / 54 / ec , for the promotion , analysis , monitoring and support of equal treatment of parents and carers without discrimination on grounds of sex are also competent for issues falling within the scope of this directive .


### member states may introduce or maintain provisions that are more favourable to workers than those laid down in this directive . they shall however ensure that at least four months of parental leave remain non - transferable in accordance with article 5 . ### member states may introduce or maintain provisions that are more favourable to workers than those laid down in this directive . they shall however ensure that at least one month of parental leave remains non - transferable in accordance with article 5 .


### this directive should not apply to categories of third - country nationals to whom a particular scheme under union law , with specific entry conditions and sets of rights , applies when the inclusion of those categories in this directive would go against the rationale of the particular scheme , create unnecessary legal complexity or entail a risk of abuses . this directive should not apply to third - country nationals who apply to reside in a member state as researchers in order to carry out a research project , as they fall within the scope of directive 2016 / 801 of the european parliament and of the council37 which introduces a specific procedure for admitting third - country nationals for the purposes of scientific research . however , once admitted under directive 2016 / 801 , legally residing researchers should be entitled to apply for an eu blue card under this directive for other purposes than those covered under directive 2016 / 801 . _________________ 37 directive 2016 / 801 of the european parliament and of the council of 11 may 2016 on the conditions of entry and residence of third - country nationals for the purposes of research , studies , training , voluntary service , pupil exchange schemes or educational projects and au pairing . ### this directive should not apply to categories of third - country nationals to whom a particular scheme under union law , with specific entry conditions and sets of rights , applies when the inclusion of those categories in this directive would go against the rationale of the particular scheme , create unnecessary legal complexity or entail a risk of abuses . this directive should not apply to third - country nationals who apply to reside in a member state as researchers in order to carry out a research project , as they fall within the scope of directive 2016 / 801 of the european parliament and of the council37 which introduces a specific procedure for admitting third - country nationals for the purposes of scientific research . however , once admitted under directive 2016 / 801 , legally residing researchers should be entitled to apply for an eu blue card under this directive for other purposes than those covered under directive 2016 / 801 without having to leave the territory of the eu . _________________ 37 directive 2016 / 801 of the european parliament and of the council of 11 may 2016 on the conditions of entry and residence of third - country nationals for the purposes of research , studies , training , voluntary service , pupil exchange schemes or educational projects and au pairing .


### since eu blue card holders are highly skilled workers contributing to addressing labour and skills shortages in key sectors , the principle of access to the labour market should be the general rule . however , in circumstances where the domestic labour market undergoes serious disturbances such as a high level of unemployment in a given occupation or sector , which may be limited to particular regions or other parts of the territory , a member state should be able to take into account the situation of its labour market before issuing an eu blue card . ### the rational behind the eu blue card scheme is to address labour and skills shortages in key sectors in the eu labour market , consequently member state should have the possibility to check whether the job vacancy could not be filled by a national of that country or another eu citizen or by third country nationals lawfully residing in that member state and already part of the eu’s labour market .


### eu blue card holders should be allowed to move to a second member state under simplified conditions where they intend to apply for a new eu blue card based on an existing work contract or binding job offer . second member states should not be allowed to require from eu blue card holders any other authorisation than the eu blue card issued by the first member state . as soon as they submit an application for an eu blue card within the deadline provided for in this directive , they should be allowed to begin employment . in the second member state the procedure for issuing an eu blue card should be simplified compared to the first eu blue card ; as the mobile eu blue card holder has already exercised highly skilled activity in one member state for a certain period of time , the second member state should not have the need to control all the same details for a second time . however , mobility should remain demand - driven and therefore a work contract should always be required in the second member state , and the salary should meet the threshold set by the second member state in accordance with this directive . ### eu blue card holders should be allowed to move to a second member state under simplified conditions where they intend to apply for a new eu blue card based on an existing work contract or binding job offer . second member states should be allowed to require from eu blue card holders the justification documents submitted in the first member state during the application for a blue card . they may examine whether the criteria for issuing a blue card were met and reject a blue card if the criteria are not met or if the first member state has not fulfilled their obligation to verify whether the criteria were met . as soon as they submit an application for an eu blue card within the deadline provided for in this directive , they should be allowed to begin employment . in the second member state the procedure for issuing an eu blue card should be simplified compared to the first eu blue card ; as the mobile eu blue card holder has already exercised highly skilled activity in one member state for a certain period of time , the second member state may control the justification documents for a second time . however , mobility should remain demand - driven and therefore a work contract should always be required in the second member state , and the salary should meet the threshold set by the second member state in accordance with this directive .


### this directive shall apply to third - country nationals who apply to be admitted or who have been admitted to the territory of a member state for the purpose of highly skilled employment . ### this directive shall apply to third - country nationals who apply to be admitted or who have been admitted to the territory of a member state for the purpose of highly skilled employment . this directive shall also apply to third - country nationals who already hold a residence permit in a member state on the basis of directive 2016 / 801 , subject to the proviso that those third - country nationals must comply with the requirements laid down in this directive .


### member states shall facilitate the validation and recognition of documents attesting the relevant higher professional qualifications pursuant to point of paragraph 1 . ### member states shall facilitate the validation and recognition of documents attesting the relevant higher education qualifications pursuant to point of paragraph 1 ; member states shall always verify whether higher professional skills as in point of paragraph 1 exist , for example by requesting documents attesting at least three years of relevant professional experience


### member states shall facilitate the validation and recognition of documents attesting the relevant higher professional qualifications pursuant to point of paragraph 1 . ### member states may facilitate the validation and recognition of documents attesting the relevant higher professional qualifications pursuant to point of paragraph 1 .


### member states may reject an application for an eu blue card where : ### member states shall reject an application for an eu blue card where :


### the level of fees required by member states for the processing of applications shall not be disproportionate or excessive . ### the level of fees required by member states for the processing of applications in accordance with this directive shall not be disproportionate or excessive in a way that would hinder the fulfilment of its objectives .


### eu blue card holders shall have full access to highly skilled employment in the member state concerned . member states may require that a change of employer and changes affecting the fulfilment of the criteria for admission as set out in article 5 are communicated in accordance with procedures laid down by national law . ### eu blue card holders - when fulfilling the criteria for admission in article 5 - shall have full access to highly skilled employment in the member state concerned . member states may require that a change of employer and changes affecting the fulfilment of the criteria for admission as set out in article 5 are communicated in accordance with procedures laid down by national law .


### where the eu blue card holder or his or her family members cross the external border of a member state applying the schengen acquis in full , that member state shall consult the schengen information system . that member state shall refuse entry for persons for whom an alert for the purposes of refusing entry and stay has been issued in the schengen information system . ### where the eu blue card holder or his or her family members cross the external border of a member state applying the schengen acquis in full , that member state shall consult the relevant databases , in particular the schengen information system , in accordance with the schengen borders code . that member state shall refuse entry for persons for whom an alert for the purposes of refusing entry and stay has been issued in the schengen information system .


### annually , and for the first time by …52 at the latest , member states shall , in accordance with regulation no 862 / 200753 , communicate to the commission statistics on the numbers of third - country nationals who have been granted an eu blue card and on those whose application have been rejected , specifying those rejected in application of article 6 , as well as on the numbers of third - country nationals whose eu blue card has been renewed or withdrawn , during the previous calendar year . those statistics shall be disaggregated by the citizenship , occupation , length of validity of the permits , sex and age of the applicants , and the economic sector . those statistics for third - country nationals who have been granted an eu blue card shall be further disaggregated into beneficiaries of international protection , beneficiaries of the right to free movement and those who have acquired eu long - term resident status in accordance with article 17 . _________________ 52 four years after the date of entry into force of this directive . 53 regulation no 862 / 2007 of the european parliament and of the council of 11 july 2007 on community statistics on migration and international protection and repealing council regulation no 311 / 76 on the compilation of statistics on foreign workers . ### annually , and for the first time by . . . 52 at the latest , member states shall , in accordance with regulation no 862 / 200753 , communicate to the commission statistics on the numbers of third - country nationals who have been granted an eu blue card and on those whose application have been rejected , specifying those rejected in application of article 6 , as well as on the numbers of third - country nationals whose eu blue card has been renewed or withdrawn , during the previous calendar year . those statistics shall be disaggregated by the citizenship , occupation , length of validity of the permits , sex and age of the applicants , size of the undertaking , and the economic sector . those statistics for third - country nationals who have been granted an eu blue card shall be further disaggregated into beneficiaries of international protection , beneficiaries of the right to free movement and those who have acquired eu long - term resident status in accordance with article 17 . _________________ 52 four years after the date of entry into force of this directive . 53 regulation no 862 / 2007 of the european parliament and of the council of 11 july 2007 on community statistics on migration and international protection and repealing council regulation no 311 / 76 on the compilation of statistics on foreign workers .


### draft legislative resolution ### recalls its resolution of 14 march 2018 on the next mff : preparing the parliament’s position on the mff post - 20201a ; reiterates its support for programmes in the areas of culture , education , media , youth , sport , democracy , citizenship and civil society that have clearly demonstrated their european added value and enjoy lasting popularity among beneficiaries ; reiterates that a stronger and a more ambitious union can only be achieved if it is provided with reinforced financial means ; calls , therefore , for providing continuous support to existing policies , for increasing resources to the union’ flagship programmes , and for additional responsibilities to be matched with additional financial means ; _____________ 1a text adopted , p8_ta0075


### the financial envelope for the implementation of the programme for the period 2021 &#8211 ; 2027 shall be eur [ 305 000 000 ] in current prices . ### within the meaning of [ reference to be updated as appropriate according to the new inter - institutional agreement : point 17 of the interinstitutional agreement of 2 december 2013 between the european parliament , the council and the commission on budgetary discipline , on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management ] , the financial envelope for the implementation of the programme for the period 2021 &#8211 ; 2027 , representing the prime reference for the budgetary authority during the annual budgetary procedure , shall be eur 316 000 000 in 2018 prices .


### an action that has received a contribution under the programme may also receive a contribution from any other union programme , including funds under shared management , provided that the contributions do not cover the same costs . [ the cumulative financing shall not exceed the total eligible costs of the action and the support from different union programmes may be calculated on a pro - rata basis ] . ### an action that has received a contribution under the programme may also receive a contribution from any other union programme , including funds under shared management , provided that the contributions do not cover the same costs , and double - sourcing of funds is avoided by clearly indicating the sources of funding for each category of expenditure , in line with the principle of sound financial management . [ the cumulative financing shall not exceed the total eligible costs of the action and the support from different union programmes may be calculated on a pro - rata basis ] .


### the recipients of union funding shall acknowledge the origin and ensure the visibility of the union funding by providing coherent , effective and proportionate targeted information to multiple audiences , including the media and the public . ### the recipients of union funding shall acknowledge the origin and ensure the visibility of the union funding by providing coherent , effective and proportionate targeted information to multiple audiences , including the media and the public , thereby showing the union added value and aiding the data gathering efforts of the commission in order to enhance budgetary transparency .


### following the terrorist attack of 26 june 2015 in sousse , tunisia , the council of the european union , in its conclusions of 20 july 2015 , stated that the union , in consultation with its member states , would explore the option of taking exceptional measures to support the tunisian economy . ### following the terrorist attack of 26 june 2015 in sousse , tunisia , the council of the european union , in its conclusions of 20 july 2015 , stated that the union , in consultation with its member states , would explore the option of taking exceptional and temporary measures to support the tunisian economy .


### directive 2012 / 27 / eu of the european parliament and of the council is an element to progress towards the energy union , under which energy efficiency should be treated as an energy source in its own right . the ' energy efficiency first ' principle should be taken into account when setting new rules for the supply side and other policy areas . the commission should ensure that energy efficiency and demand side response can compete on equal terms with generation capacity . energy efficiency needs to be considered whenever energy system relevant planning or financing decisions are taken . energy efficiency improvements need to be realised whenever it is more cost - effective than equivalent supply - side solutions . this should help to exploit the multiple benefits of energy efficiency for europe ' s society , in particular for citizens and businesses . __________________ 9 directive 2012 / 27 / eu of the european parliament and of the council of 25 october 2012 on energy efficiency , amending directives 2009 / 125 / ec and 2010 / 30 / eu and repealing directives 2004 / 8 / ec and 2006 / 32 / ec . ### directive 2012 / 27 / eu of the european parliament and of the council is an element to progress towards the energy union , under which energy efficiency should be treated as an energy source in its own right . the ' energy efficiency first ' principle should be taken into account when setting new rules for the supply side and other policy areas . the commission should ensure that energy efficiency and demand side response can compete on equal terms with generation capacity . energy efficiency must be considered whenever energy system relevant planning or financing decisions are taken . energy efficiency improvements must be realised if they are more cost - effective than equivalent supply - side solutions . this should help to exploit the multiple benefits of energy efficiency for europe ' s society , in particular for citizens and businesses . __________________ 9 directive 2012 / 27 / eu of the european parliament and of the council of 25 october 2012 on energy efficiency , amending directives 2009 / 125 / ec and 2010 / 30 / eu and repealing directives 2004 / 8 / ec and 2006 / 32 / ec .


### in view of the climate and energy framework for 2030 the energy savings obligation should be extended beyond 2020 . extending the commitment period beyond 2020 would create greater stability for investors and thus encourage long term investments and long term energy efficiency measures , such as the renovation of buildings . ### in view of the paris agreement , climate and energy framework for 2030 , as well as the union ' s long - term climate objectives up to 2050 , the energy savings obligation should be extended beyond 2020 . extending the commitment period beyond 2020 would create greater stability for investors and thus encourage long term investments and long term energy efficiency measures , such as the renovation of buildings .


### energy savings which result from the implementation of union legislation may not be claimed unless the measure in question goes beyond the minimum required by the union legislation in question , whether by setting more ambitious energy efficiency requirements at national level or increasing the take up of the measure . recognising that renovation of buildings is an essential and long term element in increasing energy savings , it is necessary to clarify that all energy savings stemming from measures promoting the renovation of existing buildings can be claimed if they are additional to developments that would have happened in the absence of the policy measure and if the member state demonstrates that the obligated , participating or entrusted party has actually contributed to the achievement of the savings claimed from the measure in question . ### energy savings which result from the implementation of union legislation may only be claimed if they stem from new policy measures , whether introduced after 31 december 2020 or before , provided it can be demonstrated that those measures result in new individual actions that are undertaken after 31 december 2020 and deliver new savings ; or unless the measure in question goes beyond the minimum required by the union legislation in question , whether by setting more ambitious energy efficiency requirements at national level or increasing the take up of the measure . recognising that renovation of buildings is an essential and long term element in increasing energy savings , it is necessary to clarify that all energy savings stemming from measures promoting the renovation of existing buildings can be claimed if they are additional to developments that would have happened in the absence of the policy measure and if the member state demonstrates that the obligated , participating or entrusted party has actually contributed to the achievement of the savings claimed from the measure in question .


### as part of the measures set out in the commission ' s communication new deal for energy consumers , in the context of the energy union and the heating and cooling strategy , consumers ' minimum rights to clear and timely information about their energy consumption need to be strengthened . articles 9 to 11 and annex vii of directive 2012 / 27 / eu should be amended to provide for frequent and enhanced feedback on energy consumption . it should also clarified that rights relating to billing and billing information apply for consumers of heating , cooling or hot water supplied from a central source even where they have no direct , individual contractual relationship with an energy supplier . therefore , for the purposes of these provisions , the term ' final user ' , should cover final customers purchasing heating , cooling or hot water for their own use as well as occupants of individual units of multi - apartment or multi - purpose buildings where such units are supplied from a central source . the term ' sub - metering ' should refer to measuring consumption in individual units of such buildings . by 1 january 2020 newly installed heat meters and heat cost allocators should be remotely readable to ensure cost - effective , frequent provision of consumption information . the new article 9a is intended to apply only to heating , cooling and hot water supplied from a central source . ### as part of the measures set out in the commission ' s communication new deal for energy consumers , in the context of the energy union and the heating and cooling strategy , consumers ' minimum rights to clear and timely information about their energy consumption need to be strengthened . articles 9 to 11 and annex vii of directive 2012 / 27 / eu should be amended to provide for frequent and enhanced feedback on energy consumption , when this is technically feasible and cost - efficient in view of the measurement devices in place . the cost - efficiency of sub - metering depends on whether the related costs are proportionate in relation to the potential energy savings . it should also be clarified that rights relating to billing and billing or consumption information apply for consumers of heating , cooling or hot water supplied from a central source even where they have no direct , individual contractual relationship with an energy supplier . the definition of the term ´final customer´ may be understood to include only natural or legal persons purchasing energy based on a direct , individual contract with an energy supplier . therefore , for the purposes of these provisions , the term ' final user ' , in addition to final customers purchasing heating , cooling or hot water for their own use covers occupants of individual units of multi - apartment or multi - purpose buildings where such units are supplied from a central source and where the occupants have no direct or individual contract with the energy supplier . the term ' sub - metering ' should refer to measuring consumption in individual units of such buildings . by 1 january 2020 newly installed heat meters and heat cost allocators should be remotely readable to ensure cost - effective , frequent provision of consumption information . the new article 9a is intended to apply only to heating , cooling and hot water supplied from a central source .


### this directive establishes a common framework of measures to promote energy efficiency within the union in order to ensure that the union ' s 2020 20 % headline targets and its 2030 30 % binding headline targets on energy efficiency are met and paves the way for further energy efficiency improvements beyond those dates . it lays down rules designed to remove barriers in the energy market and overcome market failures that impede efficiency in the supply and use of energy , and provides for the establishment of indicative national energy efficiency targets and contributions for 2020 and 2030 . ### this directive establishes a common framework of measures to promote energy efficiency within the union in order to contribute to meeting the climate objectives of the paris agreement and to ensure that the union ' s 2020 20 % headline targets and its 2030 45 % binding headline targets on energy efficiency are met . it also paves the way for further energy efficiency improvements beyond those dates . it lays down rules designed to remove barriers in the energy market and overcome market failures that impede efficiency in the supply and use of energy , and provides for the establishment of indicative national energy efficiency targets for 2020 and binding national targets for 2030 .


### each member state shall set an indicative national energy efficiency target for 2020 , based on either primary or final energy consumption , primary or final energy savings , or energy intensity . member states shall notify those targets to the commission in accordance with article 24 and annex xiv part 1 . when doing so , they shall also express those targets in terms of an absolute level of primary energy consumption and final energy consumption in 2020 and shall explain how , and on the basis of which data , this has been calculated . ### each member state shall set a binding national energy efficiency target for 2030 , expressed in terms of an absolute level of primary energy consumption and final energy consumption , underpinning the union ' s 2030 target referred to in article 1 paragraph 1 . member states shall notify those targets to the commission as part of their integrated national energy and climate plans in accordance with the procedure pursuant to the regulation , , , , on the governance of the energy union .


### other measures to promote energy efficiency within member states and at union level . ### other measures to promote energy efficiency within member states and at union level , such as energy efficiency in the water sector , with regard to water production and distribution and treatment of effluent .


### adopt an energy efficiency plan , freestanding or as part of a broader climate or environmental plan , containing specific energy saving and efficiency objectives and actions , with a view to following the exemplary role of central government buildings laid down in paragraphs 1 , 5 and 6 ; ### in article 5 , paragraph 7 , point a is replaced by the following : adopt an energy efficiency plan and long - term renovation strategy for each building , freestanding or as part of a broader climate or environmental plan , containing specific energy saving and efficiency objectives as well as live cycle costs assessments and actions , with a view to following the exemplary role of central government buildings laid down in paragraphs 1 , 5 and 6 ;


### member states shall put in place measurement , control and verification system under which documented audits are carried out on a statistically significant proportion and representative sample of the energy efficiency improvement measures put in place by the obligated parties . this measurement , control and verification shall be conducted independently of the obligated parties . ### member states shall put in place a measurement , control and verification system under which at least a statistically significant proportion and representative sample of the energy efficiency improvement measures put in place by the obligated parties is verified . this measurement , control and verification shall be conducted independently of the obligated parties .


### in multi - apartment and multi - purpose buildings with a central heating or cooling source or supplied from district heating and cooling systems , individual meters shall be installed to measure the consumption of heat or cooling or hot water for each building unit . ### in multi - apartment and multi - purpose buildings with a central heating or cooling source or supplied from district heating and cooling systems , individual meters shall be installed to measure the consumption of heat or cooling or hot water for each building unit where technically feasible and cost effective in terms of being proportionate in relation to the potential energy savings .


### in multi - apartment and multi - purpose buildings with a central heating or cooling source or supplied from district heating and cooling systems , individual meters shall be installed to measure the consumption of heat or cooling or hot water for each building unit . ### in multi - apartment and multi - purpose buildings with a central heating or cooling source or supplied from district heating and cooling systems , individual meters shall be installed to measure the consumption of heat or cooling or hot water for each building unit , where technically feasible and cost effective .


### for the purposes of this article , as of 1 january 2020 meters and cost allocators installed shall be remotely readable devices . ### for the purposes of this article , as of 1 january 2020 meters and cost allocators installed shall be remotely readable devices . the conditions of technical feasibility and cost effectiveness shall continue to apply .


### the savings must be shown to be additional to those that would have occurred in any event without the activity of the obligated , participating or entrusted parties and / or implementing authorities . to determine what savings can be claimed as additional member states shall establish a baseline that describes how energy consumption would evolve in the absence of the policy measure in question . the baseline shall reflect at least the following factors : energy consumption trends , changes in consumer behaviour , technological progress and changes caused by other measures implemented at national and eu level ; ### the savings must be shown to be additional to those that would have occurred in any event without the activity of the obligated , participating or entrusted parties and / or implementing authorities . to determine what savings can be claimed as additional member states shall take into account how energy use and demand would evolve in the absence of the policy measure in question ;


### special attention should be paid to ensuring that the activities supported by the european solidarity corps are accessible to all young people , notably the most disadvantaged ones . special measures should therefore be put in place to promote social inclusion , the participation of disadvantaged young people , as well as to take into account the constraints imposed by the remoteness of the outermost regions of the union and the overseas countries and territories24 . similarly , the participating countries should endeavour to adopt all appropriate measures to remove legal and administrative obstacles to the proper functioning of the european solidarity corps . this includes resolving , where possible , and without prejudice to the schengen acquis and union law on the entry and residence of third - country nationals , administrative issues that create difficulties in obtaining visas and residence permits . _________________ 24 individuals from an overseas country or territory and competent public and / or private bodies and institutions from an oct may participate in the programmes in accordance with council decision 2001 / 822 / ec of 27 november 2001 on the association of the overseas countries and territories with the european community , oj l314 , 30 . 11 . 2001 , p . 1 . ### special attention should be paid to ensuring that the activities supported by the european solidarity corps are accessible to all young people , notably the most disadvantaged ones . special measures should therefore be put in place to promote social inclusion , the participation of disadvantaged young people , as well as to take into account the constraints imposed by the remoteness of the outermost regions of the union and the overseas countries and territories24 . similarly , the member states and the participating countries should endeavour to adopt all appropriate measures to remove legal and administrative obstacles to the proper functioning of the european solidarity corps . this includes resolving , where possible , and without prejudice to the schengen acquis and union law on the entry and residence of third - country nationals , administrative issues that create difficulties in obtaining visas and residence permits . _________________ 24 individuals from an overseas country or territory and competent public and / or private bodies and institutions from an oct may participate in the programmes in accordance with council decision 2001 / 822 / ec of 27 november 2001 on the association of the overseas countries and territories with the european community , oj l314 , 30 . 11 . 2001 , p . 1 .


### in order to ensure greater efficiency in communication to the public at large and stronger synergies between the communication activities undertaken at the initiative of the commission , the resources allocated to communication under this regulation should also contribute to covering the corporate communication of the political priorities of the union , provided that these are related to the general objective of this regulation . ### in order to ensure greater efficiency in communication to the public at large , and stronger synergies between the communication activities undertaken at the initiative of the commission , the resources allocated to communication under this regulation should also contribute to covering the corporate communication of the political priorities of the union , as set by the commission , relating to the general objectives of this regulation and related with the objectives of the sources of financing of the european solidarity corps .


### for reasons of efficiency and effectiveness , the committee established under regulation no 1288 / 2013 should also assist the commission in the implementation of this regulation . with respect to the european solidarity corps , that committee should convene in a specific configuration and its mandate should be aligned in order to fulfil this new role . it should be for the participating countries to appoint the relevant representatives for those meetings , taking into account the volunteering and occupational dimensions of the european solidarity corps . ### for reasons of efficiency and effectiveness , the committee established under regulation no 1288 / 2013 should also assist the commission in the implementation of this regulation . with respect to the european solidarity corps , that committee should convene in a specific configuration and its mandate should be aligned in order to fulfil this new role . it should be for the member states and participating countries to appoint the relevant representatives for those meetings , taking into account the volunteering and occupational dimensions of the european solidarity corps .


### “disadvantaged young people”means individuals who need additional support because of disability , educational difficulties , economic obstacles , cultural differences , health problems , social obstacles , geographical obstacles ; ### “disadvantaged young people” means individuals who need additional support because of disability , educational or integration difficulties , economic obstacles , cultural differences , health problems , social obstacles , geographical obstacles ;


### “volunteering teams’ placements” means placements allowing teams of european solidarity corps participants from different participating countries to volunteer together for a common objective , by carrying out manual or intellectual tasks , on a worthwhile community service project for a period between two weeks and two months ; ### “volunteering teams’ placements” means placements allowing teams of european solidarity corps participants from different member states and other participating countries to volunteer together for a common objective , by carrying out manual or intellectual tasks , on a worthwhile community service project for a period between two weeks and two months ;


### the commission and the participating countries shall cooperate to achieve efficiency and effectiveness , by ensuring coherence between national programmes and schemes related to solidarity , education , vocational training and youth on the one hand and actions under the european solidarity corps on the other hand . those actions shall build on relevant good practices and existing programmes . ### the commission , the member states and other participating countries shall cooperate to achieve efficiency and effectiveness , by ensuring coherence between national programmes and schemes related to solidarity , education , vocational training and youth - without prejudice to the legislative powers attributed to sub - state authorities - on the one hand , and actions under the european solidarity corps on the other hand . those actions shall build on relevant good practices and existing programmes .


### the european solidarity corps shall pursue its objectives through the following types of actions : ### the european solidarity corps shall pursue its objectives through the following types of actions within the framework of the objectives of its sources of financing :


### the establishment , maintenance and updating of the european solidarity corps portal and other relevant online services as well as the necessary it support systems and web - based tools . ### the establishment , maintenance and updating of the european solidarity corps portal , including participants ' field reports , and other relevant online services as well as the necessary it support systems and web - based tools .


### a participating country may make national funding available to beneficiaries to be managed in accordance with the rules of the european solidarity corps and , to this end , use the decentralised structures of the european solidarity corps , as long as it ensures the complementary pro rata funding of these structures . ### a participating country must , to the extent of its capacities , make national funding available to beneficiaries to be managed in accordance with the rules of the european solidarity corps and , to this end , use the decentralised structures of the european solidarity corps , as long as it ensures the complementary pro rata funding of these structures . member states may make new additional funding available .


### the member states shall participate in the european solidarity corps . ### the member states shall participate in the european solidarity corps . in member states where powers relating to the performance of european solidarity corps actions have been transferred to sub - state authorities , mechanisms shall be developed , through national agencies acting as implementing bodies , to enable the direct participation of those authorities .


### when implementing this regulation , the commission and the participating countries shall ensure that particular efforts are made to promote social inclusion , in particular for the participation of disadvantaged young people . ### when implementing this regulation , the commission , the member states and other participating countries shall ensure that particular efforts are made to promote social inclusion , in particular for the participation of disadvantaged young people .


### any public or private entity established in a participating country as well as international organisations carrying out solidarity activities in the participating countries may apply for funding under the european solidarity corps . in the case of the activities referred to in point of article 7 , a quality label shall be obtained by the participating organisation as a pre - condition for receiving funding under the european solidarity corps . in the case of the solidarity projects referred to in point of article 7 , natural persons may also apply for funding on behalf of informal groups of european solidarity corps participants . ### any public or private entity established in a member state or other participating country as well as international organisations carrying out solidarity activities in a member state or other participating countries may apply for funding under the european solidarity corps . in the case of the activities referred to in point of article 7 , a quality label shall be obtained by the participating organisation as a pre - condition for receiving funding under the european solidarity corps . in the case of the solidarity projects referred to in point of article 7 , natural persons may also apply for funding on behalf of informal groups of european solidarity corps participants .


### the commission , in cooperation with the participating countries , shall regularly monitor the performance of the european solidarity corps towards achieving its objectives . ### the commission , in cooperation with the member states and&#160 ; other participating countries , shall regularly monitor the performance of the european solidarity corps towards achieving its objectives .


### the commission , in cooperation with the participating countries , shall ensure the dissemination of information , publicity and follow - up with regard to all actions supported in the framework of the european solidarity corps . ### the commission , in cooperation with the member states and other participating countries , shall ensure the dissemination of information , publicity and follow - up with regard to all actions supported in the framework of the european solidarity corps and to everything relating to registration and access to procedures .


### the national agencies at national level in the participating countries . ### the national agencies appointed in the member states and other participating countries .


### in each country participating in the european solidarity corps , the national authorities designated for the management of actions referred to in chapter iii of regulation no 1288 / 2013 shall also act as national authorities in the framework of the european solidarity corps . paragraphs 1 , 3 , 5 , 8 , 9 , 11 , 12 , 13 , 14 , 15 and 16 of article 27 of that regulation shall apply to the european solidarity corps by analogy . for countries referred to in paragraph 2 of article 11 of this regulation , where a national authority is not identified for that country , it shall be designated in accordance with paragraphs 2 to 6 and 8 to 15 of article 27 of regulation no 1288 / 2013 . ### in each country participating in the european solidarity corps , the national authorities designated for the management of actions referred to in chapter iii of regulation no 1288 / 2013 shall also act as national authorities in the framework of the european solidarity corps . in member states where powers relating to that chapter have been transferred to sub - state authorities with their own exclusive legislative powers , mechanisms shall be developed , through national agencies acting as implementing bodies , to enable the direct participation of those authorities . paragraphs 1 , 3 , 5 , 8 , 9 , 11 , 12 , 13 , 14 , 15 and 16 of article 27 of that regulation shall apply to the european solidarity corps by analogy . for countries referred to in paragraph 2 of article 11 of this regulation , where a national authority is not identified for that country , it shall be designated in accordance with paragraphs 2 to 6 and 8 to 15 of article 27 of regulation no 1288 / 2013 .


### in each country participating in the european solidarity corps , the national agencies designated for the management of the actions referred to in chapter iii of the regulation no 1288 / 2013 in their respective countries shall also act as national agencies in the framework of the european solidarity corps . ### in each member state and other country participating in the european solidarity corps , the national agencies designated for the management of the actions referred to in chapter iii of the regulation no 1288 / 2013 in their respective countries shall also act as national agencies in the framework of the european solidarity corps . in member states where powers relating to that chapter have been transferred to sub - state authorities with their own exclusive legislative powers , mechanisms shall be developed , through national agencies acting as implementing bodies , to enable the direct participation of those authorities .


### the high functionality and relatively low cost of plastic means that this material is increasingly ubiquitous in everyday life . its growing use in short - lived applications , which are not designed for re - use or cost - effective recycling means that related production and consumption patterns have become increasingly inefficient and linear . therefore , in the context of the circular economy action plan32 , the commission concluded in the european strategy for plastics33 that the steady increase in plastic waste generation and its leakage into our environment , in particular into the marine environment , must be tackled in order to achieve a truly circular lifecycle for plastics . __________________ 32 communication from the commission to the european parliament , the council , the european economic and social committee and the committee of the regions ' closing the loop – an eu action plan for the circular economy ' 0614 final ) . 33 communication from the commission to the european parliament , the council , the european economic and social committee and the committee of the regions ' a european strategy for plastics in a circular economy ' 28 final ) . ### the high functionality and relatively low cost of plastic means that this material is increasingly ubiquitous in everyday life . global annual production of plastics grew from 2 million tons in 1950 to 381 million tons in 2015 , and is expected to triple again by 2030 . its growing use , including in short - lived applications , which are not designed for re - use or cost - effective recycling means that related production and consumption patterns have become increasingly inefficient and linear . therefore , in the context of the circular economy action plan32 , the commission concluded in the european strategy for plastics33 that the steady increase in plastic waste generation and its leakage into our environment , in particular into the marine environment , must be tackled in order to ensure a significant reduction in the absolute use of plastics and achieve a truly circular lifecycle for plastics . __________________ 32 communication from the commission to the european parliament , the council , the european economic and social committee and the committee of the regions ' closing the loop – an eu action plan for the circular economy ' 0614 final ) . 33 communication from the commission to the european parliament , the council , the european economic and social committee and the committee of the regions ' a european strategy for plastics in a circular economy ' 28 final ) .


### the high functionality and relatively low cost of plastic means that this material is increasingly ubiquitous in everyday life . its growing use in short - lived applications , which are not designed for re - use or cost - effective recycling means that related production and consumption patterns have become increasingly inefficient and linear . therefore , in the context of the circular economy action plan32 , the commission concluded in the european strategy for plastics33 that the steady increase in plastic waste generation and its leakage into our environment , in particular into the marine environment , must be tackled in order to achieve a truly circular lifecycle for plastics . __________________ 32 communication from the commission to the european parliament , the council , the european economic and social committee and the committee of the regions ' closing the loop – an eu action plan for the circular economy ' 0614 final ) . 33 communication from the commission to the european parliament , the council , the european economic and social committee and the committee of the regions ' a european strategy for plastics in a circular economy ' 28 final ) . ### the high functionality and relatively low cost of plastic means that this material is increasingly ubiquitous in everyday life . its growing use in short - lived applications , which are not designed for re - use or cost - effective recycling means that related production and consumption patterns have become increasingly inefficient and linear . therefore , in the context of the circular economy action plan32 , the commission concluded in the european strategy for plastics33 that the steady increase in plastic waste generation and its leakage into our environment , in particular into the marine environment , must be tackled in order to achieve a truly circular lifecycle for plastics and to reduce overall quantity of plastic in the environment . __________________ 32 communication from the commission to the european parliament , the council , the european economic and social committee and the committee of the regions ' closing the loop – an eu action plan for the circular economy ' 0614 final ) . 33 communication from the commission to the european parliament , the council , the european economic and social committee and the committee of the regions ' a european strategy for plastics in a circular economy ' 28 final ) .


### in order to clearly define the scope of this directive the term single - use plastic product should be defined . the definition should exclude plastic products that are conceived , designed and placed on the market to accomplish within their lifecycle multiple trips or rotations by being refilled or reused for the same purpose for which they are conceived . ### in order to clearly define the scope of this directive , the term ‘ single - use plastic product’ should be defined as a product that is conceived and placed on the market to be used just once over a short period of time . the definition should exclude plastic products that are conceived , designed and placed on the market to accomplish within their lifecycle multiple trips or rotations by being refilled or reused for the same purpose for which they are conceived .


### certain single - use plastic products end up in the environment as a result of inappropriate disposal through sewers or other inappropriate release into the environment . therefore , single - use plastic products that are frequently disposed of through sewers otherwise inappropriately disposed of should be subject to marking requirements . the marking should inform consumers about appropriate waste disposal options and / or waste disposal options to be avoided and / or about the negative environmental impacts of litter as a result of inappropriate disposal . the commission should be empowered to establish a harmonised format for the marking and when doing so should , where appropriate , test the perception of the proposed marking with representative groups of consumers to ensure that it is effective and clearly understandable . ### certain single - use plastic products end up in the environment as a result of inappropriate disposal through sewers or other inappropriate release into the environment . therefore , single - use plastic products that are frequently disposed of through sewers otherwise inappropriately disposed of should be subject to marking requirements . the marking should inform consumers about appropriate waste disposal options and / or waste disposal options to be avoided and / or about the negative environmental impacts of litter as a result of inappropriate disposal . at the same time , labelling content should raise consumer awareness of the environmental dangers of plastic waste . the commission should be empowered to establish a harmonised format for the marking and when doing so should , where appropriate , test the perception of the proposed marking with representative groups of consumers to ensure that it is effective and clearly understandable .


### certain single - use plastic products end up in the environment as a result of inappropriate disposal through sewers or other inappropriate release into the environment . therefore , single - use plastic products that are frequently disposed of through sewers otherwise inappropriately disposed of should be subject to marking requirements . the marking should inform consumers about appropriate waste disposal options and / or waste disposal options to be avoided and / or about the negative environmental impacts of litter as a result of inappropriate disposal . the commission should be empowered to establish a harmonised format for the marking and when doing so should , where appropriate , test the perception of the proposed marking with representative groups of consumers to ensure that it is effective and clearly understandable . ### certain single - use plastic products end up in the environment as a result of inappropriate disposal through sewers or other inappropriate release into the environment . therefore , single - use plastic products that are frequently disposed of through sewers otherwise inappropriately disposed of should be subject to marking requirements . the marking should inform consumers about appropriate waste disposal options and / or waste disposal options to be avoided and / or about the negative environmental impacts of litter as a result of inappropriate disposal . the commission should be empowered to establish a harmonised format for the marking and when doing so should , where appropriate , test the perception of the proposed marking with representative groups of consumers and industry to ensure that it is effective and clearly understandable .


### in order to prevent littering and other inappropriate forms of disposal resulting in marine litter containing plastic , consumers need to be properly informed about the most appropriate waste disposal options available and / or waste disposal options to be avoided , best practices with regard to waste disposal and the environmental impact of bad disposal practices as well as about the plastic content in certain single - use plastic products and fishing gear . therefore , member states should be required to take awareness raising measures ensuring that such information is given to the consumers . the information should not contain any promotional content encouraging the use of the single - use plastic products . member states should be able to choose the measures which are most appropriate based on the nature of the product or its use . producers of single - use plastic products and fishing gear containing plastic should cover the costs of the awareness raising measures as part of their extended producer responsibility obligation . ### in order to prevent littering and other inappropriate forms of disposal resulting in marine litter containing plastic , consumers need to be properly informed about the most appropriate waste disposal options available and / or waste disposal options to be avoided , best practices with regard to waste disposal and the environmental impact of bad disposal practices as well as about the plastic content in certain single - use plastic products and fishing gear . therefore , member states should be required to take awareness raising measures , including education campaigns at schools , ensuring that such information is given to the consumers to incentivise them to change their behaviour and to participate more actively in litter prevention . this information should include the impact of inappropriate waste disposal on the sewer network . the information should not contain any promotional content encouraging the use of the single - use plastic products . member states should be able to choose the measures which are most appropriate based on the nature of the product or its use . the fight against litter should be a shared effort between competent authorities , producers and consumers . producers of single - use plastic products and fishing gear containing plastic should cover the costs of the awareness raising measures as part of their extended producer responsibility obligation .


### the objective of this directive is to prevent and reduce the impact of certain plastic products on the environment , in particular the aquatic environment , and on human health as well as to promote the transition to a circular economy with innovative business models , products and materials , thus also contributing to the efficient functioning of the internal market . ### the objective of this directive is to prevent and reduce the impact of certain plastic products on the environment , in particular on aquatic life and environment , on human and animal health as well as to promote the transition to a circular economy with innovative business models , products and materials , thus also contributing to the efficient functioning of the internal market .


### this directive shall apply to the single - use plastic products listed in the annex and to fishing gear containing plastic . ### this directive shall apply to all single - use plastic products and single - use plastic in all its forms and to fishing gear containing plastic .


### the commission shall request the european standardisation organisations to develop harmonised standards relating to the requirement referred to in paragraph 1 . ### by [ 3 months after entering into force of this directive ] the commission shall request the european standardisation organisations to develop harmonised standards relating to the requirement referred to in paragraph 1 .


### member states shall ensure that each single - use plastic product listed in part d of the annex placed on the market bears a conspicuous , clearly legible and indelible marking informing consumers of one or more of the following : ### member states shall ensure that each sales packaging of the single - use plastic product listed in part d of the annex placed on the market bears a conspicuous , clearly legible and indelible marking informing consumers of the following :


### with regard to the schemes established pursuant to paragraph 1 , member states shall ensure that the producers of the single - use plastic products listed in part e of the annex shall cover the costs of the collection of waste consisting of those single - use plastic products and its subsequent transport and treatment , including the costs to clean up litter and the costs of the awareness raising measures referred to in article 10 regarding those products . ### with regard to the schemes established pursuant to paragraph 1 , member states shall ensure that the producers of the single - use plastic products listed in part e of the annex shall contribute to the costs of the collection of waste consisting of those single - use plastic products and its subsequent transport and treatment , including the costs to clean up litter and the costs of the awareness raising measures referred to in article 10 regarding those products .


### the impact of littering and other inappropriate waste disposal of those products and fishing gear containing plastic on the environment , and in particular on the marine environment . ### the impact , including data and graphics , of littering and other inappropriate waste disposal of those products and fishing gear containing plastic on the environment , and in particular on the marine environment .


### however , the member states shall apply the measures necessary to comply with articles 5 and 7 from … [ 2 years after entry into force of this directive ] and with article 6 from … [ 3 years after entry into force of this directive ] . ### however , the member states shall apply the measures necessary to comply with articles 5 and 7 from … [ 2 years after entry into force of this directive ] and with article 6 from … [ 2 years after the entry into force of the standard referred to in article 6 ] .


### the outcomes of the 2012 united nations conference on sustainable development ‘ rio + 20’19 as well as the international developments regarding the fight against illegal wildlife trade should be reflected into the union ' s external fisheries policy . __________________ 19 united nations general assembly resolution a / res / 66 / 288 of 27 july 2012 on the outcome of the rio + 20 conference , entitled ' the future we want ' . ### the outcomes of the 2012 united nations conference on sustainable development ‘ rio + 20’19 , the international developments regarding the fight against illegal wildlife trade and the new sustainable development goals adopted in september 2015 by the united nations should be reflected into the union ' s external fisheries policy . __________________ 19 united nations general assembly resolution a / res / 66 / 288 of 27 july 2012 on the outcome of the rio + 20 conference , entitled ' the future we want ' .