### the european union is confronted with structural challenges arising from economic globalisation , technological change and an increasingly ageing workforce and growing skills and labour shortages in some sectors and regions . they have been compounded by the recent economic and financial crisis , which has resulted in increased levels of unemployment , hitting in particular young people and other vulnerable groups , such as migrants . the esf should aim to promote employment and support labour mobility , invest in education , skills and life - long learning , promote social inclusion and combat poverty . in promoting the better functioning of labour markets by enhancing the transnational geographical mobility of workers , the esf should , in particular , support european employment services in relation to recruitment and the related information , advice and guidance services at national and cross - border level . ### the european union is confronted with structural and demographic challenges arising from economic globalisation , technological change and an increasingly ageing workforce and growing skills and labour shortages in some sectors and regions . they have been compounded by the recent economic and financial crisis , which has resulted in increased levels of unemployment , hitting in particular young people and other vulnerable groups , such as migrants . the esf should aim to create and to promote employment and support labour mobility , invest in education , skills and life - long learning , promote social inclusion and combat poverty . in promoting the better functioning of labour markets by enhancing the transnational geographical mobility of workers , the esf may support european employment services in relation to recruitment and the related information , advice and guidance services at national and cross - border level .


### in addition to these priorities , in the less developed regions and member states , and with a view to increasing economic growth and employment opportunities , the efficiency of public administration should be improved and the institutional capacity of stakeholders delivering employment , education and social policies should be strengthened . ### in addition to these priorities , in the less developed regions and member states , and notably island , cross - border and mountainous regions , with a view to improving the efficiency of public administration and reinforcing the institutional capacity of stakeholders implementing social , health , employment and education to increase sustainable development , economic growth and job opportunities .


### in addition to these priorities , in the less developed regions and member states , and with a view to increasing economic growth and employment opportunities , the efficiency of public administration should be improved and the institutional capacity of stakeholders delivering employment , education and social policies should be strengthened . ### in addition to these priorities , in particular in the less developed regions and member states of the union , and with a view to increasing and promoting employment and the development of human resources , the efficiency of public administration should be improved and the institutional capacity of stakeholders delivering employment , education and social policies should be strengthened .


### at the same time , it is crucial to support the development and competitiveness of european small and medium - sized enterprises and to ensure that people can adapt , through acquiring appropriate skills and through life - long learning opportunities , to new challenges such as the shift to a knowledge - based economy , the digital agenda , and the transition to a low - carbon and more energy - efficient economy . by pursuing its primary thematic objectives , the esf should contribute to addressing these challenges . in this context , the esf should support the labour force transition towards greener skills and jobs , in particular in the energy efficiency , renewable energy and sustainable transport sectors , taking into account the union’s intention to increase the proportion of the eu budget that is related to climate mainstreaming to at least 20 % , with contributions from different policy fields . . ### at the same time , it is crucial to support the creation , development and competitiveness of european small and medium - sized enterprises and micro - enterprises and to ensure that people can adapt , through acquiring appropriate skills and through life - long learning opportunities , to changing social and economic conditions and to new challenges such as the shift to a knowledge - based economy , the digital agenda , and the transition to a low - carbon and more energy - efficient economy . by pursuing its primary thematic objectives , the esf should contribute to addressing these challenges . in this context , the esf should support the labour force transition towards greener skills and jobs , in particular in the energy efficiency , renewable energy and sustainable transport sectors , taking into account the union’s intention to increase the proportion of the eu budget that is related to climate mainstreaming to at least 20 % , with contributions from different policy fields .


### efficient and effective implementation of actions supported by the esf depends on good governance and partnership between all relevant territorial and socio - economic actors , in particular the social partners and non - governmental organisations . it is therefore necessary that member states encourage the participation of social partners and non - governmental organisations in the implementation of the esf . ### efficient and effective implementation of actions supported by the esf depends on good governance and partnership between all relevant territorial and socio - economic actors , in particular the social partners , business organisations and non - governmental organisations . it is therefore necessary that member states encourage the participation of social partners and non - governmental organisations in the implementation of the esf .


### the mobilisation of regional and local stakeholders is necessary to deliver the europe 2020 strategy and its headline targets . territorial pacts , local initiatives for employment and social inclusion , community - led local development strategies and sustainable urban development strategies may be used and supported to involve more actively regional and local authorities , cities , social partners and non - governmental organisations in the implementation of programmes . ### the mobilisation of regional and local stakeholders is necessary to deliver the europe 2020 strategy and its headline targets . the principle of multilevel governance presumes that territorial pacts , local initiatives for employment and social inclusion , community - led local development strategies and sustainable urban development strategies may be used and supported , if necessary , to involve more actively regional and local authorities , cities , social partners and non - governmental organisations and other partners in civil society in the development and implementation and management of programmes .


### the esf shall promote high levels of employment and job quality , support the geographical and occupational mobility of workers , facilitate their adaptation to change , encourage a high level of education and training , promote gender equality , equal opportunities and non - discrimination , enhance social inclusion and combat poverty , thereby contributing to the priorities of the european union as regards strengthening economic , social and territorial cohesion . ### the esf shall promote high levels of employment and job quality , equipping workers for the labour market , support the geographical and occupational mobility of workers ; facilitate their adaptation to change ; encourage a high level of education and professional training ; promote gender equality , youth employment , equal opportunities and non - discrimination ; enhance social inclusion and combat poverty , thereby contributing to the priorities of the european union as regards strengthening economic , social and territorial cohesion .


### the esf shall benefit people , including disadvantaged groups such as the long - term unemployed , people with disabilities , migrants , ethnic minorities , marginalised communities and people facing social exclusion . the esf shall also provide support to enterprises , systems and structures with a view to facilitating their adaptation to new challenges and promoting good governance and the implementation of reforms , in particular in the fields of employment , education and social policies . ### the esf shall benefit residents of the european union , including disadvantaged groups such as the long - term unemployed , young and unskilled workers , older workers , workers aged 50 and over who experience problems returning to the labour market after losing their jobs , people with disabilities , migrants , ethnic minorities , marginalised communities and people facing social exclusion . the esf shall also provide support to enterprises , systems and structures with a view to facilitating their adaptation to new challenges and promoting good governance and the implementation of reforms , in particular in the fields of employment , education and social policies .


### the esf shall benefit people , including disadvantaged groups such as the long - term unemployed , people with disabilities , migrants , ethnic minorities , marginalised communities and people facing social exclusion . the esf shall also provide support to enterprises , systems and structures with a view to facilitating their adaptation to new challenges and promoting good governance and the implementation of reforms , in particular in the fields of employment , education and social policies . ### the esf shall benefit people , including disadvantaged groups such as the long - term unemployed , people with disabilities , migrants , ethnic minorities , marginalised communities and people facing social exclusion . the esf shall also provide support to workers , enterprises , and entrepreneurs as well as systems and structures with a view to facilitating their adaptation to new challenges and promoting good governance and the implementation of reforms , in particular in the fields of employment , education and social policies .


### access to employment for job - seekers and inactive people , including local employment initiatives and support for labour mobility ; ### access to employment for job - seekers and inactive people , paying special attention to the most disadvantaged groups , young people , the over - 45s , women and the disabled , including local employment initiatives and support for labour mobility ,


### access to employment for job - seekers and inactive people , including local employment initiatives and support for labour mobility ; ### access to employment and employment services for job - seekers and inactive people , including local employment initiatives and support for labour mobility ;


### adaptation of workers , enterprises and entrepreneurs to change ; ### adaptation of the workers , enterprises and entrepreneurs , particularly smes and micro entreprises , to change ;


### investing in education , skills and life - long learning through : ### investing in good quality and modern education , skills and life - long learning through :


### improving the quality , efficiency and openness of tertiary and equivalent education with a view to increasing participation and attainment levels ; ### improving the quality , efficiency and openness of tertiary education , and adapting it to the real needs in the labour market , with a view to increasing participation and attainment levels , as well as employability and mobility throughout europe ;


### enhancing access to lifelong learning , upgrading the skills and competences of the workforce and increasing the labour market relevance of education and training systems ; ### enhancing access to lifelong learning , upgrading the qualifications and professional competences of the workforce and bringing education and training into line with the labour market ;


### enhancing access to lifelong learning , upgrading the skills and competences of the workforce and increasing the labour market relevance of education and training systems ; ### enhancing access to lifelong learning and affordable , sustainable and high - quality cultural services , upgrading the skills and competences of the workforce and increasing the labour market relevance of education and training systems ;


### capacity building for stakeholders delivering employment , education and social policies and sectoral and territorial pacts to mobilise for reform at national , regional and local level . ### capacity building for stakeholders including partners delivering employment , education and initial and continuous vocational training , social policies and sectoral and territorial pacts to mobilise for reform at national , regional and local level ;


### capacity building for stakeholders delivering employment , education and social policies and sectoral and territorial pacts to mobilise for reform at national , regional and local level . ### capacity building for stakeholders , including non - governmental organisations , delivering employment , formal and non - formal education and social policies and sectoral and territorial pacts to mobilise for reform at national , regional and local level .


### supporting the shift towards a low - carbon , climate - resilient , resource - efficient and environmentally sustainable economy , through reform of education and training systems , adaptation of skills and qualifications , up - skilling of the labour force , and the creation of new jobs in sectors related to the environment and energy ; ### for regions not supported by the cohesion fund , supporting the shift towards a low - carbon , climate - resilient , resource - efficient and environmentally sustainable economy , through reform of education and training systems , adaptation of skills and qualifications , up - skilling of the labour force , and the creation of new jobs in sectors related to the environment and energy ;


### enhancing the competitiveness of small and medium - sized enterprises , through promoting the adaptability of enterprises and workers and increased investment in human capital . ### enhancing the competitiveness of enterprises , especially the small and medium - sized ones , and social economy and social enterprises , through promoting the adaptability of enterprises and workers and increased investment in human capital .


### member states shall ensure that the strategy and actions set out in the operational programmes are consistent and focused on addressing the challenges identified in the national reform programmes and the relevant council recommendations made under article 148 of the treaty , in order to contribute to achieving the headline targets of the europe 2020 strategy on employment , education and poverty reduction . ### member states shall ensure that the strategy and actions set out in the operational programmes are consistent and contribute to addressing the challenges identified in the national reform programmes and the relevant council recommendations made under article 148 of the treaty , in order to contribute to achieving the headline targets of the europe 2020 strategy on employment , education and poverty reduction .


### to encourage adequate participation of the social partners in actions supported by the esf , managing authorities of an operational programme in a region as defined in article 82 of regulation no [ … ] or in member states eligible for cohesion fund support shall ensure that an appropriate amount of esf resources is allocated to capacity - building activities , in the form of training , networking measures , and strengthening of the social dialogue , and to activities jointly undertaken by the social partners . ### to encourage adequate participation of the social partners in actions supported by the esf , managing authorities of an operational programme in a region as defined in article 82 , and of regulation no [ … ] or in member states eligible for cohesion fund support shall ensure that an appropriate amount of esf resources is allocated to capacity - building activities , in the form of training , networking measures , and strengthening of the social dialogue , and to activities jointly undertaken by the social partners .


### to encourage adequate participation of and access by non - governmental organisations to actions supported by the esf , notably in the fields of social inclusion , gender equality and equal opportunities , the managing authorities of an operational programme in a region as defined in article 82 of regulation no [ … ] or in member states eligible for cohesion fund support shall ensure that an appropriate amount of esf resources is allocated to capacity - building for non - governmental organisations . ### to encourage adequate access by other stakeholders , above all non - governmental organisations to actions supported by the esf , notably in the fields of non - formal education , social inclusion , gender equality and equal opportunities , the managing authorities of an operational programme in a region as defined in article 82 of regulation no [ … ] or in member states eligible for cohesion fund support shall ensure that an appropriate amount of esf resources is allocated to capacity - building for stakeholders , above all non - governmental organisations .


### to encourage adequate participation of and access by non - governmental organisations to actions supported by the esf , notably in the fields of social inclusion , gender equality and equal opportunities , the managing authorities of an operational programme in a region as defined in article 82 of regulation no [ … ] or in member states eligible for cohesion fund support shall ensure that an appropriate amount of esf resources is allocated to capacity - building for non - governmental organisations . ### to encourage adequate participation of and access by non - governmental organisations to actions supported by the esf , notably in the fields of social inclusion , gender equality and equal opportunities , the managing authorities of an operational programme in a region as defined in article 82 and of regulation no [ … ] or in member states eligible for cohesion fund support shall ensure that an appropriate amount of esf resources is allocated to capacity - building for non - governmental organisations .


### the member states and the commission shall promote equal opportunities for all , including accessibility for disabled persons through mainstreaming the principle of non - discrimination , as referred to in article 7 of regulation no [ … ] , and through specific actions within the investment priorities as defined in article 3 , and in particular article 3 . such actions shall target people at risk of discrimination and people with disabilities , with a view to increasing their labour market participation , enhancing their social inclusion , reducing inequalities in terms of educational attainment and health status and facilitating the transition from institutional to community - based care . ### the member states and the commission shall promote equal opportunities for all , including accessibility for disabled persons through mainstreaming the principle of non - discrimination , as referred to in article 7 of regulation no [ … ] , and through specific actions within the investment priorities as defined in article 3 , and in particular article 3 . such actions shall target people at risk of discrimination and people with disabilities , with a view to increasing their labour market participation , guaranteeing them affordable housing , enhancing their social inclusion , reducing inequalities in terms of educational attainment and health status and facilitating the transition from institutional to community - based care .


### the commission shall facilitate capacity building for social innovation , in particular through supporting mutual learning , establishing networks , and disseminating good practices and methodologies . ### the commission shall facilitate capacity building for social innovation , in particular through supporting mutual learning , establishing networks , and disseminating good practices , methodologies and the creation and implementation of new solutions designed to meet growing social needs .


### transnational cooperation . ### cross border , transnational and interregional cooperation .


### member states shall support transnational cooperation with the aim of promoting mutual learning and thereby increasing the effectiveness of policies supported by the esf . transnational cooperation shall involve partners from at least two member states . ### member states shall support transnational cooperation with the aim of promoting mutual learning , shared good practices and the development of social projects by groups of european institutions , thereby increasing the effectiveness of policies supported by the esf . transnational cooperation shall involve partners from at least two member states , and special attention should be given to the outermost regions due to their remoteness and insularity .


### the commission shall facilitate transnational cooperation on the themes referred to in paragraph 2 through mutual learning and coordinated or joint actions . in particular , the commission shall operate an eu - level platform to facilitate the exchange of experience , capacity building and networking , as well as dissemination of the relevant outcomes . in addition , the commission shall develop a coordinated implementation framework , including common eligibility criteria , types and timing of actions , and common methodological approaches for monitoring and evaluation , with a view to facilitating transnational cooperation . ### the commission shall facilitate cross - border , transnational and interregional cooperation on the themes referred to in paragraph 2 through mutual learning and coordinated or joint actions . in particular , the commission shall operate an eu - level platform to facilitate the exchange of experience , capacity building and networking , as well as dissemination of the relevant outcomes . in addition , the commission shall develop a coordinated implementation framework , including common eligibility criteria , types and timing of actions , and common methodological approaches for monitoring and evaluation , with a view to facilitating cross - border , transnational and interregional cooperation . cross border , transnational and interregional cooperation under the esf should be coordinated with the etc regulation to ensure coordination between the funds .


### the esf may support community - led local development strategies , as referred to in article&#160 ; 28 of regulation no [ . . . ] , territorial pacts and local initiatives for employment , education and social inclusion , as well as integrated territorial investments as referred to in article&#160 ; 99 of regulation no . [ &#8230 ; ] . ### the esf should in particular support community - led local development strategies , as referred to in article&#160 ; 28 of regulation no [ . . . ] , territorial pacts and local initiatives for employment , education and social inclusion , as well as integrated territorial investments as referred to in article&#160 ; 99 of regulation no . [ &#8230 ; ] .


### grants reimbursed on the basis of the eligible cost of operations , determined in the way of flat - rate financing , standard scales of unit costs and lump sums as referred to in article 57 of regulation no [ … ] may be calculated on a case - by - case basis by reference to a draft budget agreed ex ante by the managing authority , where the public support does not exceed eur 100 000 . ### grants reimbursed on the basis of the eligible cost of operations , determined in the way of flat - rate financing , standard scales of unit costs and lump sums as referred to in article 57 of regulation no [ … ] may be calculated on a case - by - case basis by reference to a draft budget agreed ex ante by the managing authority , where the eu co - financing does not exceed eur 100 000 .


### grants for which the public support does not exceed eur 50 000 shall take the form of lump sums or standard scales of unit costs in accordance with paragraph 1 or article 57 of regulation no [ … ] , except for operations receiving support within the framework of a state aid scheme . ### grants for which the eu co - financing does not exceed eur 50 000 shall take the form of lump sums or standard scales of unit costs in accordance with paragraph 1 or article 57 of regulation no [ … ] , except for operations receiving support within the framework of a state aid scheme .


### unemployed , including long - term unemployed* ### unemployed , including long - term unemployed* , young people and women and the disabled


### · participants in employment 6 months after leaving ### · participants in employment 9 months after leaving .


### · participants in self - employment 6 months after leaving . ### · participants in self - employment 9 months after leaving .


### · participants with an improved labour market situation 6 months after leaving . ### · participants with an improved labour market situation 9 months after leaving .


### european standards are of vital interest for the competitiveness of smes which , however , are in general under - represented in standardisation activities , in particular at european level . thus , this regulation should ensure an appropriate representation of sme in the european standardisation process by an entity with appropriate qualifications . ### european standards are of vital interest for the competitiveness of smes which , however , are in general under - represented in european standardisation activities . therefore , national delegates sitting in european technical committees should represent sme interests in a more systematic and efficient manner . in addition , this regulation should ensure an appropriate participation of smes in the european standardisation process by an entity that is effectively in contact with , and duly representative of , smes and their organisations at national level .


### standards should as far as possible take into account environmental impacts throughout the life cycle of products and services . important and publicly available tools for evaluating such impacts throughout the life cycle have been developed by the commission ' s joint research centre . ### standards should as far as possible take into account environmental impacts throughout the life cycle of products and services . important and publicly available tools for evaluating such impacts throughout the life cycle have been developed by the commission ' s joint research centre . thus , this regulation should ensure that the jrc can play an active role in the european standardisation system .


### the viability of the cooperation between the commission and the european standardisation system depends on careful planning of future requests for the development of standards . this planning could be improved , in particular through the input of interested parties . since directive 98 / 34 / ec already provides for the possibility to request the european standardisation bodies to elaborate european standards , it is appropriate to put in place a better and more transparent planning in an annual work programme which should contain an overview of all requests for standards which the commission intends to submit to european standardisation bodies . ### the viability of the cooperation between the commission and the european standardisation system depends on careful planning of future requests for the development of standards . this planning could be improved , in particular through the input of interested parties . since directive 98 / 34 / ec already provides for the possibility to request the european standardisation organisations to elaborate european standards , it is appropriate to put in place a better and more transparent planning in an annual work programme which should contain an overview of all requests for standards which the commission intends to submit to european standardisation organisations . however , as standards are primarily a market tool , it is necessary to ensure a high level of cooperation between the european standardisation organisations and the commission in the establishment of its annual european standardisation work programme in order to ensure that the standards that the commission intends to request from the european standardisation organisations are market - driven .


### public authorities should make best use of the full range of relevant standards when procuring hardware , software and information technology services , for example by selecting standards which can be implemented by all interested suppliers , allowing for more competition and reduced risk of lock - in . directive 2004 / 17 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 31 march 2004 coordinating the procurement procedures of entities operating in the water , energy , transport and postal services sectors and directive 2004 / 18 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 31 march 2004 on the coordination of procedures for the award of public works contracts , public supply contracts and public service contracts specify that technical specifications in public procurement should be formulated by reference to national standards transposing european standards , european technical approvals , common technical specifications , international standards , other technical reference systems established by the european standardisation bodies or - when these do not exist - to national standards , national technical approvals or national technical specifications relating to the design , calculation and execution of the works and use of the products , or equivalent . standards in the field of information and communication technologies , however , are often developed by other standard developing organisations and do not fall in any of the categories of standards and approvals laid down in directives 2004 / 17 / ec and 2004 / 18 / ec . therefore , it is necessary to provide for the possibility that technical specifications for public procurement could refer to standards in the field of information and communication technologies , in order to respond to the fast evolution in the field of information and communication technologies , facilitate the provision of cross - border services , encourage competition and promote interoperability and innovation . ### public authorities should make best use of the full range of relevant technical specifications when procuring hardware , software and information technology services , for example by selecting technical specifications which can be implemented by all interested suppliers , allowing for more competition and reduced risk of lock - in . directive 2004 / 17 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 31 march 2004 coordinating the procurement procedures of entities operating in the water , energy , transport and postal services sectors and directive 2004 / 18 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 31 march 2004 on the coordination of procedures for the award of public works contracts , public supply contracts and public service contracts specify that technical specifications in public procurement should be formulated by reference to national standards transposing european standards , european technical approvals , common technical specifications , international standards , other technical reference systems established by the european standardisation organisations or - when these do not exist - to national standards , national technical approvals or national technical specifications relating to the design , calculation and execution of the works and use of the products , or equivalent . technical specifications in the field of information and communication technologies , however , are often developed by other standard developing organisations and do not fall in any of the categories of standards and approvals laid down in directives 2004 / 17 / ec and 2004 / 18 / ec . therefore , it is necessary to provide for the possibility that technical specifications for public procurement could refer to technical specifications in the field of information and communication technologies , in order to respond to the fast evolution in the field of information and communication technologies , facilitate the provision of cross - border services , encourage competition and promote interoperability and innovation .


### public authorities should make best use of the full range of relevant standards when procuring hardware , software and information technology services , for example by selecting standards which can be implemented by all interested suppliers , allowing for more competition and reduced risk of lock - in . directive 2004 / 17 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 31 march 2004 coordinating the procurement procedures of entities operating in the water , energy , transport and postal services sectors and directive 2004 / 18 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 31 march 2004 on the coordination of procedures for the award of public works contracts , public supply contracts and public service contracts specify that technical specifications in public procurement should be formulated by reference to national standards transposing european standards , european technical approvals , common technical specifications , international standards , other technical reference systems established by the european standardisation bodies or - when these do not exist - to national standards , national technical approvals or national technical specifications relating to the design , calculation and execution of the works and use of the products , or equivalent . standards in the field of information and communication technologies , however , are often developed by other standard developing organisations and do not fall in any of the categories of standards and approvals laid down in directives 2004 / 17 / ec and 2004 / 18 / ec . therefore , it is necessary to provide for the possibility that technical specifications for public procurement could refer to standards in the field of information and communication technologies , in order to respond to the fast evolution in the field of information and communication technologies , facilitate the provision of cross - border services , encourage competition and promote interoperability and innovation . ### public authorities should make best use of the full range of relevant standards when procuring hardware , software and information technology services , for example by selecting standards which can be implemented by all interested suppliers , allowing for more competition and reduced risk of lock - in . directive 2004 / 17 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 31 march 2004 coordinating the procurement procedures of entities operating in the water , energy , transport and postal services sectors and directive 2004 / 18 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 31 march 2004 on the coordination of procedures for the award of public works contracts , public supply contracts and public service contracts specify that technical specifications in public procurement should be formulated by reference to national standards transposing european standards , european technical approvals , common technical specifications , international standards , other technical reference systems established by the european standardisation bodies or - when these do not exist - to national standards , national technical approvals or national technical specifications relating to the design , calculation and execution of the works and use of the products , or equivalent . standards in the field of information and communication technologies , however , are often developed by other standard developing organisations and do not fall in any of the categories of standards and approvals laid down in directives 2004 / 17 / ec and 2004 / 18 / ec . therefore , it is necessary to provide for the possibility that invitations to tender for public procurement could refer to certain technical specifications in the field of information and communication technologies , in order to respond to the fast evolution in the field of information and communication technologies , facilitate the provision of cross - border services , encourage competition and promote interoperability and innovation .


### some standards in the field of information and communication technologies are not developed according to the criteria set out in annex 3 of the agreement on technical barriers to trade . therefore , this regulation should lay down a procedure for the selection of the standards in the field of information and communication technologies that could be used in public procurement , involving a broad consultation of a large spectrum of stakeholders , including the european standardisation bodies , enterprises and public authorities . this regulation should also lay down requirements , in the form of a list of attributes , for such standards and their associated standardisation processes . these attributes should ensure that public policy objectives and societal needs are respected , and should be founded on the criteria developed within the world trade organisation for international standardisation organisations . ### some technical specifications in the field of information and communication technologies are not developed according to the criteria set out in annex 3 of the agreement on technical barriers to trade . therefore , this regulation should lay down a procedure for the selection of technical specifications in the field of information and communication technologies that could be used in public procurement , involving a broad consultation of a large spectrum of stakeholders , including the european standardisation bodies , enterprises and public authorities . this regulation should also lay down requirements , in the form of a list of attributes , for such technical specifications and their associated development processes . these attributes should ensure that public policy objectives and societal needs are respected , and should be founded on the criteria developed within the world trade organisation for international standardisation organisations .


### some standards in the field of information and communication technologies are not developed according to the criteria set out in annex 3 of the agreement on technical barriers to trade . therefore , this regulation should lay down a procedure for the selection of the standards in the field of information and communication technologies that could be used in public procurement , involving a broad consultation of a large spectrum of stakeholders , including the european standardisation bodies , enterprises and public authorities . this regulation should also lay down requirements , in the form of a list of attributes , for such standards and their associated standardisation processes . these attributes should ensure that public policy objectives and societal needs are respected , and should be founded on the criteria developed within the world trade organisation for international standardisation organisations . ### some technical specifications in the field of information and communication technologies are not developed according to the criteria set out in annex 3 of the agreement on technical barriers to trade . therefore , this regulation should lay down a procedure for the selection of the technical specifications in the field of information and communication technologies that could be used in public procurement , involving a broad consultation of a large spectrum of stakeholders , including the european standardisation bodies , enterprises and public authorities . this regulation should also lay down requirements , in the form of a list of attributes , for such technical specifications and their associated standardisation processes . these attributes should ensure that public policy objectives and societal needs are respected , and should be founded on the criteria developed within the world trade organisation for international standardisation organisations .


### the financing of standardisation activities should also be capable of covering preliminary or ancillary activities in connection with the establishment of standards or other standardisation products . this is necessary primarily for work involving research , the preparation of preliminary documents for legislation , inter - laboratory tests and the validation or evaluation of standards . the promotion of standardisation at european and international level should also continue through programmes relating to the technical assistance to , and cooperation with , third countries . with a view to improving market access and boosting the competitiveness of enterprises in the union , it should be possible to give grants to other bodies through calls for proposals or , where necessary , by awarding contracts . ### the financing of standardisation activities should also be capable of covering preliminary or ancillary activities in connection with the establishment of standards or other standardisation products . this is necessary primarily for work involving research , the preparation of preliminary documents for legislation , inter - laboratory tests . the promotion of standardisation at european and international level should also continue through programmes relating to the technical assistance to , and cooperation with , third countries . with a view to improving market access and boosting the competitiveness of enterprises in the union , it should be possible to give grants to the entities carrying out the abovementioned activities through calls for proposals or , where necessary , by awarding contracts .


### in order to update the lists of european standardisation bodies , to adapt the criteria for recognising standards in the field of information and communication technologies to technical developments and to adapt the criteria for organisations representing sme and societal stakeholders to further developments as regards their non - profit making nature and representativity , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty should be delegated to the commission in respect of amendments to the annexes to this regulation . it is of particular importance that the commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level . ### in order to update the lists of european standardisation bodies , to adapt the criteria for recognising standards in the field of information and communication technologies to technical developments and to adapt the criteria for organisations representing sme and societal stakeholders to further developments as regards their representativity , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty should be delegated to the commission in respect of amendments to the annexes to this regulation . it is of particular importance that the commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level . the commission , when preparing and drawing up delegated acts , should ensure a simultaneous , timely and appropriate transmission of relevant documents to the european parliament and to the council .


### directives 98 / 34 / ec , 89 / 686 / eec , 93 / 15 / eec , 94 / 9 / ec , 94 / 25 / ec , 95 / 16 / ec , 97 / 23 / ec , 98 / 34 / ec , 2004 / 22 / ec , 2007 / 23 / ec , 2009 / 105 / ec and 2009 / 23 / ec should therefore be amended accordingly . ### directives 89 / 686 / eec , 93 / 15 / eec , 94 / 9 / ec , 94 / 25 / ec , 95 / 16 / ec , 97 / 23 / ec , 98 / 34 / ec , 2004 / 22 / ec , 2007 / 23 / ec , 2009 / 105 / ec and 2009 / 23 / ec should therefore be amended accordingly .


### this regulation establishes rules with regard to the cooperation between european standardisation bodies , national standardisation bodies and the commission , the establishment of european standards and european standardisation deliverables for products and for services in support of union legislation and policies , the recognition of technical specifications in the field of information and communication technologies and financing of european standardisation . ### this regulation establishes rules with regard to the cooperation between european standardisation bodies , national standardisation bodies and the commission , the establishment of european standards and european standardisation deliverables for products and for product - related services in support of union legislation and policies , the recognition of technical specifications in the field of information and communication technologies and financing of european standardisation .


### ' standard ' means a technical specification for repeated or continuous application , with which compliance is not compulsory , and which is one of the following : ### ' standard ' means a technical specification established by consensus and approved by a recognised standardisation organisation for repeated or continuous use , with which compliance is not compulsory , and which is one of the following :


### ' standard ' means a technical specification for repeated or continuous application , with which compliance is not compulsory , and which is one of the following : ### ' standard ' means a technical specification established by consensus and approved by a recognised organisation for repeated or continuous use , with which compliance is not compulsory , and which is one of the following :


### ' international standard ' means a standard adopted by an international standardisation body ; ### ' international standard ' means a standard adopted by an international standardisation body , and made publicly available ;


### ‘ national standard’ means a standard adopted by a national standardisation body ; ### ‘ national standard’ means a standard adopted by a national standardisation body , and made publicly available ;


### ' international standard ' means a standard adopted by an international standardisation body ; ### ' international standard ' means a standard adopted by an international standardisation organisation ;


### ‘ national standard’ means a standard adopted by a national standardisation body ; ### ‘ national standard’ means a standard adopted by a national standardisation organisation ;


### the publication of draft standards in such a way that parties established in other member states have the opportunity to submit comments ; ### the prompt publication of draft standards in such a way that parties established in other member states have the opportunity to submit comments ;


### european standardisation bodies shall ensure an appropriate representation , at technical level , of undertakings , research centres and universities and other legal entities , in standardisation activities concerning an emerging area with significant policy or technical innovation implications , if the legal entities concerned participated in a project that is related to that area and that is funded by the union under a multiannual framework programme for activities in the area of research and technological development . ### european standardisation organisations shall ensure an appropriate representation , at technical level , of undertakings , research centres , the commission ' s joint research centre , universities and other legal entities , in standardisation activities concerning an emerging area with significant policy or technical innovation implications , if the legal entities concerned participated in a project that is related to that area and that is funded by the union under a multiannual framework programme for activities in the area of research , innovation and technological development .


### the commission shall adopt an annual european standardisation work programme which shall indicate the european standards and european standardisation deliverables that it intends to request from the european standardisation bodies in accordance with article 7 . ### the commission shall adopt , after consultation with the european standardisation organisations and all relevant stakeholders , an annual european standardisation work programme which shall indicate the european standards and european standardisation deliverables that it intends to request from the european standardisation organisations in accordance with article 7 .


### the commission may request one or several european standardisation bodies to draft a european standard or european standardisation deliverable within a set deadline . they shall be market - driven , take into account the public interest and based on consensus . ### the commission may request one or several european standardisation organisations to draft a european standard or european standardisation deliverable within a reasonable deadline . they shall be market - driven , take into account the public interest and based on consensus . to that end , the request by the commission shall be issued after consultation with the european standardisation organisations and relevant stakeholders .


### the commission may request one or several european standardisation bodies to draft a european standard or european standardisation deliverable within a set deadline . they shall be market - driven , take into account the public interest and based on consensus . ### the commission may request one or several european standardisation bodies to draft a european standard or european standardisation , deliverable within a set deadline , which is ambitious and to which are annexed clear lists of requirements , interim objectives and details of public funding . they shall be market - driven , take into account the public interest and based on consensus .


### either on proposal from a public authority referred to in directive 2004 / 18 / ec or on its own initiative the commission may decide to recognise technical specifications which are not national , european or international standards and meet the requirements set out in annex ii , as ict standards . ### either on proposal from a member state , a public authority referred to in directive 2004 / 18 / ec or on its own initiative the commission may decide , after consultation with the european standardisation organisations and relevant stakeholders , to use technical specifications which are not national , european or international standards and meet the requirements set out in annex ii , as ict standards .


### use of ict standards in public procurement ### use of ict technical specifications in public procurement


### ict standards referred to in article 9 shall constitute common technical specifications referred to in directives 2004 / 17 / ce and 2004 / 18 / ce , and regulation no 2342 / 2002 . ### ict technical specifications referred to in article 9 shall constitute common technical specifications referred to in directives 2004 / 17 / ec and 2004 / 18 / ec , and regulation no 2342 / 2002 .


### the performance of preliminary or ancillary work in connection with european standardisation , including studies , cooperation activities , seminars , evaluations , comparative analyses , research work , laboratory work , inter - laboratory tests , conformity evaluation work and measures to ensure that the periods for the development and the revision of european standards or european standardisation deliverables are shortened ; ### the performance of preliminary or ancillary work in connection with european standardisation , including studies , cooperation activities , including international cooperation , seminars , evaluations , comparative analyses , research work , laboratory work , inter - laboratory tests , conformity evaluation work and measures to ensure that the periods for the development and the revision of european standards or european standardisation deliverables are shortened ;


### the activities of the central secretariats of the european standardisation bodies , including policy development , the coordination of standardisation activities , the processing of technical work and the provision of information to interested parties ; ### the activities of the central secretariats of the european standardisation bodies , including policy development , the coordination of standardisation activities , international regulatory dialogue , the processing of technical work and the provision of information to interested parties ;


### the translation , where required , of european standards or european standardisation deliverables used in support of union policies and legislation into the official union languages other than the working languages of the european standardisation bodies or , in duly justified cases into languages other than the official union languages , ### the translation , where required , of european standards or european standardisation deliverables used in support of union policies and legislation into the official union languages other than the working languages of the european standardisation bodies or into languages other than the official union languages when that makes it possible to promote european standards in third countries ,


### the drawing up of information to explain , interpret and simplify european standards or european standardisation deliverables , including the drawing up of user guides , best practice information and awareness - building actions ; ### the drawing up of information to explain , interpret and present in a simplified manner european standards or european standardisation deliverables , for example in the form of user guides , summaries of standards , best practice compilations , awareness - building strategies and training programmes ;


### other bodies which have been entrusted with carrying out the work referred to in points , and of paragraph 1 , in cooperation with the european standardisation bodies . ### other national and european bodies which have been entrusted with carrying out the work referred to in points , and of paragraph 1 , in cooperation with the european standardisation organisations .


### the commission shall decide on the financing arrangements referred to in paragraphs 1 and 2 , on the amounts of the grants and , where necessary , on the maximum percentage of financing by type of activity . ### the commission , after consulting the european standardisation bodies , shall decide on the financing arrangements referred to in paragraphs 1 and 2 , on the amounts of the grants and , where necessary , on the maximum percentage of financing by type of activity .


### adapt the criteria for recognising standards in the field of ict set out in annex ii to technical developments ; ### adapt the criteria for recognising standards in the field of ict set out in annex ii to technical developments , without , however , creating or abandoning any of the criteria ;


### adapt the criteria for organisations representing sme and societal stakeholders set out in annex iii to further developments as regards their non - profit making nature and representativity . ### adapt the criteria for organisations representing sme and societal stakeholders set out in annex iii to further developments as regards their non - profit making nature and representativity without , however , creating , abandoning or abolishing any criterion or organisation .


### the power to adopt delegated acts is conferred on the&#160 ; commission subject to conditions laid down in this article . ### the power to adopt delegated acts is conferred on the commission subject to the conditions laid down in this article .


### the delegation of power referred to in article 16 shall be conferred on the commission for an indeterminate period of time from 1 january 2013 . ### the power to adopt delegated acts referred to in article 16 shall be conferred on the commission for a period of five years from 1 january 2013 . the commission shall draw up a report in respect of the delegation of power not later than nine months before the end of the five - year period . the delegation of power shall be tacitly extended for periods of an identical duration , unless the european parliament or the council opposes such extension not later than three months before the end of each period .


### the delegation of powers referred to in article 16 may be revoked at any time by the european parliament or by the council . a decision of revocation shall put an end to the delegation of the powers specified in that decision . it shall take effect the day following the publication of the decision in the official journal of the european union or at a later date specified therein . it shall not affect the validity of the delegated acts already in force . ### the delegation of power referred to in article 16 may be revoked at any time by the european parliament or by the council . a decision to revoke shall put an end to the delegation of the power specified in that decision . it shall take effect the day following the publication of the decision in the official journal of the european union or at a later date specified therein . it shall not affect the validity of any delegated acts already in force .


### a delegated act adopted pursuant to article 16 shall enter into force only if no objection has been expressed either by the european parliament or the council within a period of two months of notification of that act to the european parliament and the council or if , before expiry of that period , the european parliament and the council have both informed the commission that they will not object . that period shall be extended by two months at the initiative of the european parliament or the council . ### a delegated act adopted pursuant to article 16 shall enter into force only if no objection has been expressed either by the european parliament or the council within a period of two months of notification of that act to the european parliament and the council or if , before the expiry of that period , the european parliament and the council have both informed the commission that they will not object . that period shall be extended by two months at the initiative of the european parliament or of the council .


### the representation of smes , consumer organisations and environmental and social stakeholders in national standardisation bodies . ### the representation of consumer organisations and environmental and social stakeholders in national standardisation organisations .


### the technical specifications were developed by a non - profit making organisation which is a professional society , industry or trade association or any other membership organisation that within its area of expertise develops standards in the field of information and communication technologies and which is not a european , national or international standardisation body , through processes which fulfil the following criteria : ### the technical specifications were developed by a non - profit making organisation which is a professional society , industry or trade association or any other membership organisation that within its area of expertise develops technical specifications in the field of information and communication technologies and which is not a european , national or international standardisation organisation , through processes which fulfil the following criteria :


### the standardisation process was collaborative and consensus based and did not favour any particular stakeholder . consensus means a general agreement , characterised by the absence of sustained opposition to substantial issues by any important part of the concerned interests and by a process that involves seeking to take into account the views of all parties concerned and to reconcile any conflicting arguments . consensus does not imply unanimity . ### the process of drafting technical specifications was collaborative and consensus based and did not favour any particular stakeholder . consensus means a general agreement , characterised by the absence of sustained opposition to substantial issues by any important part of the concerned interests and by a process that involves seeking to take into account the views of all parties concerned and to reconcile any conflicting arguments . consensus does not imply unanimity .


### has been mandated by non - profit organisations representing sme in at least two thirds of the member states , to represent the interests of sme in the standardisation process at european level . ### has been mandated by non - profit organisations representing the majority of smes in all member states , to represent the interests of smes in the standardisation process at european level .


### proposal for a regulation of the european parliament and of the council establishing ‘ erasmus for all’ the union programme for education , training , youth and sport ### proposal for a regulation of the european parliament and of the council establishing ‘ yes europe’ the union programme for youth , education and training and sport


### the council of the european union called on 12 may 2009 for a strategic framework for european cooperation in education and training setting up four strategic objectives with a view to responding to the challenges that remain in creating a knowledge - based europe and making lifelong learning a reality for all . ### the council of the european union called on 12 may 2009 for a strategic framework for european cooperation in education and training setting up four strategic objectives with a view to responding to the challenges that remain in creating a knowledge - based europe and making lifelong learning a reality for all . these objectives will only be attained if the adequate level of funding is made available .


### the programme should include a strong international dimension particularly as regards higher education , not only to enhance the quality of european higher education in pursuit of the broader et2020 objectives and the attractiveness of the union as a study destination , but also to promote understanding between people and contribution to the sustainable development of higher education in the third countries . ### the programme should include a strong international dimension particularly as regards higher education , not only to enhance the quality of european higher education in pursuit of the broader et2020 objectives and the attractiveness of the union as a study destination , but also to promote understanding between people and contribution to the sustainable development of higher education in the overseas countries and territories associated with the european union and the third countries .


### the programme should include a strong international dimension particularly as regards higher education , not only to enhance the quality of european higher education in pursuit of the broader et2020 objectives and the attractiveness of the union as a study destination , but also to promote understanding between people and contribution to the sustainable development of higher education in the third countries . ### the programme should include a strong international dimension particularly as regards higher education , not only to enhance the quality of european higher education in pursuit of the broader et2020 objectives and the attractiveness of the union as a study destination , but also to promote understanding between people and contribute to poverty eradication and sustainable development , including in the area of higher education , in the third countries and in the overseas countries and territories associated with the union .


### the renewed framework of cooperation in the youth field should consider all young people as a resource in society and upholds their right to participate in the development of policies affecting them by means of a continuous structured dialogue between decision - makers and young people and youth organisations at all levels . ### the renewed framework of cooperation in the youth field should consider all young people as a resource in society and seeks to facilitate and enhance their participation in the development of policies affecting them by means of a continuous structured dialogue between decision - makers and young people and youth organisations at all levels .


### member states should endeavour to adopt all appropriate measures to remove legal and administrative obstacles to the proper functioning of the programme . this also implies that visas for participants should be handed out without delays , in order to ensure that no participant misses out on either a part of or the entire study , training programme or exchange , and to avoid cancellations of mobility actions and projects . in line with article 19 of the council directive 2004 / 114 / ec of 13 december 2004 on the conditions of admission of third country nationals for the purposes of studies , pupils exchange , unremunerated training or voluntary service , member states are encouraged to establish fast - track admission procedures . ### member states should endeavour to adopt all appropriate measures to remove legal and administrative obstacles to the proper functioning of the programme . in order to ensure that no participant misses out on any part of the activity planned , and to avoid cancellations of mobility actions and projects , the member states should be encouraged to issue visas without undue delay and to establish fast - track admission procedures in line with article 19 of council directive 2004 / 114 / ec of 13 december 2004 on the conditions of admission of third country nationals for the purposes of studies , pupils exchange , unremunerated training or voluntary service .


### the bologna declaration , signed by the ministers for education of 29 european countries on 19 june 1999 , established an intergovernmental process aimed at creating a ‘ european area of higher education’ , which requires support at union level . ### the bologna declaration , signed by the ministers for education of 29 european countries on 19 june 1999 , established an intergovernmental process aimed at creating a ‘ european area of higher education’ . in the 8th bologna ministerial conference held in bucharest , romania , on 26 and 27 april 2012 , the 47 ministers responsible for higher education signed the bucharest ministerial communiqué that calls for consolidating the european area of higher education , which requires continuous support at union level .


### it is necessary to strengthen the intensity and volume of european cooperation between schools , and of the mobility of school staff and learners in order to address the priorities set out in the agenda for european cooperation on schools for the 21st century , namely to improve the quality of school education in the union in the fields of competence development and in order to improve equity and inclusion within school systems and institutions , as well as to reinforce the teaching profession and school leadership . in this context , particular importance should be given to the strategic targets on reducing early school leaving , improving performance in basic skills , improving participation and quality in early childhood education and care , as well as to targets on reinforcing the professional competences of school teachers and school leaders , and improving the educational chances of children with a migrant background and those at socio economic disadvantage . ### it is necessary to strengthen the intensity and volume of european cooperation between schools , and of the mobility of school staff and learners in order to address the priorities set out in the agenda for european cooperation on schools for the 21st century , namely to improve the quality of school education in the union in the fields of competence development and in order to improve equity and inclusion within school systems and institutions , as well as to reinforce and provide support for the teaching profession and school leadership . in this context , the strategic targets on reducing early school leaving , improving performance in basic skills , improving participation and quality in early childhood education and care should be prioritized along with targets reinforcing the professional competences of school teachers and school leaders , and improving the educational opportunities of children with a migrant background and those at a socio economic disadvantage .


### the programme should contribute to develop excellence in european integration studies world - wide , it should in particular support institutions that have a european governance structure , cover the whole spectrum of policy fields that are of interest for the union , are non profit organisations and provide recognised academic degrees . ### the programme should contribute to develop excellence in european integration studies world - wide , it should in particular support institutions that have a european governance structure , cover the whole spectrum of policy fields that are of interest for the union , are non profit organisations and provide recognised academic degrees , as well as international organisations and bodies whose activities are related to areas of eu interest , promoting and supporting mobility and cooperation at european level , such as the european university institute and the european public law organisation .


### the programme should contribute to develop excellence in european integration studies world - wide , it should in particular support institutions that have a european governance structure , cover the whole spectrum of policy fields that are of interest for the union , are non profit organisations and provide recognised academic degrees . ### in order to contribute to developing excellence in european integration studies world - wide and to respond to the increasing need for knowledge of , and dialogue on , the european integration process and its development , it is important to stimulate excellence in teaching , research and reflection in this field by supporting higher education institutions specialising in the study of the european integration process , european associations in the fields of education and training and the jean monnet action .


### the communication from the commission on ' developing the european dimension in sport ' of 18 january 2011 sets out the commission’s ideas for union - level action in the field of sport after the entry into force of the lisbon treaty and proposes a list of concrete actions for the commission and member states in three broad chapters : the societal role of sport , the economic dimension of sport and the organisation of sport . ### the communication from the commission on ' developing the european dimension in sport ' of 18 january 2011 sets out the commission’s ideas for union - level action in the field of sport after the entry into force of the lisbon treaty and proposes a list of concrete actions for the commission and member states to increase sport’s european identity in three broad chapters : the societal role of sport , the economic dimension of sport and the organisation of sport .


### improved transparency of qualifications and competences and extended acceptance of union tools should facilitate mobility throughout europe for lifelong learning purposes , therefore contributing to the development of quality education and training , and will facilitate mobility for occupational purposes , between countries as well as across sectors . opening up access for young students to methods , practices and technologies used in other countries will help to improve their employability in a global economy ; it can also help making jobs with an international profile more attractive . ### improved transparency of qualifications and competences and extended acceptance of union recognition tools should contribute to the development of quality education , training and youth work and facilitate mobility for both lifelong learning and occupational purposes throughout europe , between countries as well as across sectors . opening up access for all young people to methods , practices and technologies used in other countries will improve their employability in a global economy ; it can also help making jobs with an international profile more attractive .


### for this purpose , it is recommended to extend the use of the single framework for the transparency of qualifications and competences under decision no2241 / 2004 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 15 december 2004 , the european qualifications framework under recommendation of the european parliament and of the council of 23 april 2008 , the european credit system for vocational education and training under recommendation of the european parliament and of the council of 18 june 2009 and the european credit transfer and accumulation system . ### for this purpose , it is recommended that extended use be made of the single framework for the transparency of qualifications and competences under decision no 2241 / 2004 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 15 december 2004 , the european quality assurance register and the european association for quality assurance in higher education under recommendation 2006 / 143 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 15 february 20061 , the european qualifications framework under the recommendation of the european parliament and of the council of 23 april 2008 , the european credit system for vocational education and training and the european quality assurance reference framework for vocational education and training under the recommendation of the european parliament and of the council of 18 june 2009 and the european credit transfer and accumulation system . ____________ 1 oj l 64 , 4 . 3 . 2006 , p . 60 .


### it is necessary to ensure the european added value of all actions carried out within in the framework of the programme , and complementarity to activities of member states in compliance with article 167 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union and other activities , in particular in the field of culture , research , industrial and cohesion policy , enlargement policy and external relations . ### it is necessary to ensure the european added value of all actions carried out within in the framework of the programme , as well as better coordination and complementarity , better efficiency and visibility , as well greater budgetary synergies with the activities of member states in compliance with article 167 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union and other activities , in particular in the field of culture , research , industrial and cohesion policy , enlargement policy and external relations .


### it is necessary to ensure the european added value of all actions carried out within in the framework of the programme , and complementarity to activities of member states in compliance with article 167 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union and other activities , in particular in the field of culture , research , industrial and cohesion policy , enlargement policy and external relations . ### it is necessary to ensure the european added value of all actions carried out within the framework of the programme , and complementarity to activities of member states in compliance with article 167 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union and other activities , in particular in the fields of culture and the media , employment , health , research and innovation , enterprise , justice , consumers , development , industrial and cohesion policy , enlargement policy and external relations , as well as in accordance with the union’s current macro - regional strategies and those that may be approved during the lifetime of the programme .


### it is necessary to ensure the european added value of all actions carried out within in the framework of the programme , and complementarity to activities of member states in compliance with article 167 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union and other activities , in particular in the field of culture , research , industrial and cohesion policy , enlargement policy and external relations . ### it is necessary to ensure the european added value of all actions carried out within the framework of the programme , and complementarity to activities of member states in compliance with article 167 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union and other activities , in particular in the fields of culture and the media , employment , health , research and innovation , enterprise , justice , consumers , development , volunteering , industrial and cohesion policy , enlargement policy and external relations , as well as in accordance with the union ' s macro - regional strategies , such as the european union strategy for the baltic sea region , the european union strategy for the danube region and the european union strategy for the mediterranean area .


### it is necessary to ensure the european added value of all actions carried out within in the framework of the programme , and complementarity to activities of member states in compliance with article 167 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union and other activities , in particular in the field of culture , research , industrial and cohesion policy , enlargement policy and external relations . ### it is necessary to ensure the european added value of all actions carried out within the framework of the programme , and complementarity to activities of member states in compliance with article 167 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union and other activities , in particular in the fields of culture and the media , employment , health , research and innovation , enterprise , justice , consumers , development , industrial and cohesion policy , enlargement policy and external relations , as well as in accordance with the union ' s macro - regional strategies , such as the european union strategy for the baltic sea region and the european union strategy for the danube region .


### effective performance management , including evaluation and monitoring , requires development of specific performance indicators which can be measured over time , which are both realistic and reflect the logic of the intervention and are relevant to the appropriate hierarchy of objectives and activities . ### effective performance management , including evaluation and monitoring , requires development of specific performance indicators which can be measured over time , which are both realistic and reflect the logic of the intervention and are relevant to the appropriate hierarchy of objectives and activities . the commission should annually monitor the implementation of the programme for assessing results and impacts with the aid of these indicators , which should provide the minimum basis for assessing the extent to which the objectives of the programme have been achieved .


### effective performance management , including evaluation and monitoring , requires development of specific performance indicators which can be measured over time , which are both realistic and reflect the logic of the intervention and are relevant to the appropriate hierarchy of objectives and activities . ### effective performance management , including evaluation and monitoring , requires development of specific , measurable and realistic performance indicators which reflect the logic of the intervention . the results of implementing european programmes must , in general terms , be fed back into policy making and european strategies with regard to young people and vice - versa .


### the european commission and the high representative of the european union for foreign affairs and security policy , in their joint communication on a new response to a changing neighbourhood outlined , inter alia , the aim to further facilitate neighbourhood countries ' participation in union mobility and capacity building actions in higher education and the opening of the future education programme to neighbouring countries . ### the european commission and the high representative of the european union for foreign affairs and security policy , in their joint communication on a new response to a changing neighbourhood outlined , inter alia , the aim of further facilitating neighbourhood countries ' participation in union mobility and capacity building actions in higher education and the opening of the future education programme to neighbourhood countries . the same aim should be achieved in the case of candidate or potential candidate countries .


### in its communication ' a budget for europe 2020 ' of 29 june 2011 the commission has underlined its commitment to simplifying union funding . the creation of a single programme on education , training , youth and sport should provide for significant simplification , rationalisation and synergies in the management of the programme . the implementation should be further simplified by the use of lump sum , unit cost or flat rate funding , as well as reducing formal requirements for beneficiaries and member states . ### in its communication ' a budget for europe 2020 ' of 29 june 2011 the commission has underlined its commitment to simplifying union funding . the creation of a single programme on education , training , youth and sport should provide for significant simplification , rationalisation and synergies in the management of the programme . the implementation should be further simplified by the use of lump sum , unit cost or flat rate funding , as well as reducing formal and bureaucratic requirements for beneficiaries and member states .


### the programme covers education at all levels , in a lifelong learning perspective , in particular higher education , vocational education and training and adult learning , school education and youth . ### the programme shall cover the following fields : education and training at all levels , in a lifelong learning perspective , including school education , higher education , vocational education and training and adult learning ; youth , in particular in the context of non - formal and informal learning , active citizenship , social inclusion and volunteering ; sport , in particular grassroots sport .


### ‘ learning mobility’ means moving physically to a country other than the country of residence , in order to undertake study , training or other learning , including traineeships and non - formal learning , or teaching or participating in a transnational professional development activity . it may include preparatory training in the host language . learning mobility also covers youth exchanges and transnational professional development activities involving youth workers ; ### ‘ learning mobility’ means moving physically to a country other than the country of residence , in order to undertake study , training or other learning activities , including apprenticeships , traineeships and non - formal learning , assistantships or teaching , or to participate in a professional development activity . it may include preparatory training in the host language as well as follow - up activities . learning mobility shall also cover youth exchanges , volunteering , non - formal and informal learning and transnational professional development activities involving youth workers ;


### ‘ support for policy reform’ means any type of activity aimed at supporting and facilitating the modernization of education and training systems through the process of policy cooperation between member states , in particular the open methods of coordination ; ### ‘ support for policy reform’ means any type of activity aimed at supporting and facilitating the modernisation of education and training systems , as well as support for the development of european youth policy , through the process of policy cooperation between member states , in particular the open method of coordination ;


### ' youth activity ' means an out - of - school activity carried out by a young person , either individually or in group , characterized by a non - formal learning approach ; ### “youth activity” means an out - of - school activity carried out by a young person , either individually or in group , characterized by a non - formal learning approach and implementable under the european skills passport scheme ;


### ‘ partnership’ means an agreement between a group of institutions or organisations in different member states to carry out joint european activities in the field of education , training and youth or establishing a formal or informal network in a relevant field . as regards sport , it means an agreement with one or more third parties such as professional sport organisations or sponsors in different member states in order to attract additional sources of support for achieving the desired outcomes of the programme . ### ' partnership ' means an agreement between a group of institutions and / or organisations in different participating countries to carry out joint european activities in the fields of education , training and youth or establishing a formal or informal network in a relevant field . as regards sport , it means an agreement with one or more third parties such as professional sport organisations or sponsors in different participating countries in order to attract additional sources of support for achieving the desired outcomes of the programme . it may be extended to institutions and / or organisations from third countries with a view to strengthening the quality of the partnership ;


### ‘ eu transparency tools’ means instruments that help stakeholders to understand , appreciate and as appropriate recognise learning outcomes and qualifications throughout the union ; ### ‘ union transparency and recognition tools’ means instruments that help stakeholders to understand , appreciate and , as appropriate , recognise learning outcomes and qualifications throughout the union ;


### the programme shall only support those actions and activities presenting a potential european added value and contributing to the achievement of the general objective as referred to in article 4 . ### the programme shall support only those actions and activities presenting a potential european added value and contributing to the achievement of the general objectives of the programme set out in article 4 .


### their contribution to the effective use of union tools for recognition of qualifications and transparency . ### contribution to the effective use of union transparency and recognition tools .


### general objective of the programme ### general objectives of the programme


### to improve the level of key competences and skills regarding in particular their relevance for the labour market and society , as well as the participation of young people in democratic life in europe , notably through increased learning mobility opportunities for young people , learners , staff and youth workers , and through strengthened cooperation between education youth and the world of labour market ; ### to improve the level of key competences and hard and soft skills regarding in particular their relevance for the labour market and society , as well as the participation of young people in democratic life in europe , notably through increased learning mobility opportunities for young people , learners , staff and youth workers , and through strengthened cooperation between education youth and the world of labour market ;


### to improve the level of key competences and skills regarding in particular their relevance for the labour market and society , as well as the participation of young people in democratic life in europe , notably through increased learning mobility opportunities for young people , learners , staff and youth workers , and through strengthened cooperation between education youth and the world of labour market ; ### to improve the level of key competences and skills regarding in particular their relevance for the labour market and society , enhance personal development , and promote the participation of young people in democratic life in europe , notably through increased learning mobility opportunities for young people , learners , staff and youth workers , and through strengthened cooperation between education , youth and the world of work ;


### to promote the emergence of a european lifelong learning area , trigger policy reforms at national level , support the modernisation of education and training systems , including non - formal learning , and support european cooperation in the youth field , notably through enhanced policy cooperation , better use of recognition and transparency tools and the dissemination of good practices . ### to promote the emergence of a european lifelong learning area , trigger policy reforms at national level , support the modernisation of education and training systems , including non - formal learning , and support european cooperation in the youth field , notably through enhanced policy cooperation , better use of recognition and transparency tools , the dissemination of good practices and the inclusion in studies at baccalaureate or equivalent level of a specific subject on the background , objectives and functioning of the european union and its institutions .


### in the field of education , training and youth , the programme shall pursue&#160 ; its objectives through the three following types of actions : ### in the field of education and training , the programme shall pursue&#160 ; its objectives through the three following types of actions :


### learning mobility of individuals action shall support : ### in the field of comenius , learning mobility of individuals between the participating countries shall support the mobility of staff in the form of teaching or taking part in professional development activities abroad .


### transnational partnerships between enterprises and education institutions in the form of : ### transnational partnerships between enterprises , education institutions and public authorities , including local governments , in the form of :


### support for policy reform action shall include the activities initiated at union level related to : ### support for policy reform in the field of education and training shall include inter alia the activities initiated at union level related to :


### the implementation in participating countries of union transparency tools , in particular europass , the european qualifications framework , european credit transfer and accumulation system , european credit system for vocational education and training and the support to eu - wide networks ; ### the implementation in participating countries of union transparency and recognition tools , in particular europass , the european qualifications framework , european credit transfer and accumulation system , european credit system for vocational education and training , the european quality assurance reference framework for vocational education and training , the european quality assurance register and the european association for quality assurance in higher education , and support to eu - wide networks ;


### the european youth forum , the national academic recognition centres , the eurydice , euroguidance and eurodesk networks , as well as the etwinning national support centres , the europass national centres , and the national information offices in the neighbourhood countries and acceding countries , candidate countries and potential candidates not fully participating in the programme . ### national academic recognition centres , the eurydice and euroguidance networks , as well as the etwinning national support centres , the europass national centres , and the national information offices in the neighbourhood countries and acceding countries , candidate countries and potential candidates not fully participating in the programme .


### in line with the general objective , the programme shall pursue the following specific objectives in the area of sport : ### in addition to the objectives set out in article 4 and article 5 , the programme shall mainly focus on grassroots sport and shall pursue the following specific objectives in the field of sport :


### to tackle transnational threats to sport such as doping , match fixing , violence , racism and intolerance ; ### to tackle transnational threats to sport such as violence , doping , match fixing and any other type of crime with due regard for individual rights ;


### support to transnational collaborative projects ; ### support for cross - border and transnational collaborative projects ;


### support to capacity building of sport organisations ; ### support to capacity building of sport organisations by increasing the number of qualified trainers and establishing sports infrastructure ;


### in addition to the financial envelope as indicated in paragraph 1 , and in order to promote the international dimension of higher education , an indicative amount of eur 1 812 100 000 from the different external instruments , will be allocated to actions of learning mobility to or from countries other than those as referred to in article 18 and to cooperation and policy dialogue with authorities / institutions / organisations from these countries . the provisions of this regulation will apply to the use of those funds . ### in addition to the financial envelope as indicated in paragraph 1 , and in order to promote the international dimension of higher education , an indicative amount of 2 % from the total amount allocated to the participating instruments shall be allocated to actions of learning mobility to or from third countries and to cooperation and policy dialogue with authorities , institutions or organisations from those countries . while the provisions of this regulation shall apply to the use of the funds , the objectives , principles and priorities of those participating instruments shall be respected .


### in addition to the financial envelope as indicated in paragraph 1 , and in order to promote the international dimension of higher education , an indicative amount of eur 1 812 100 000 from the different external instruments , , will be allocated to actions of learning mobility to or from countries other than those as referred to in article 18 and to cooperation and policy dialogue with authorities / institutions / organisations from these countries . the provisions of this regulation will apply to the use of those funds . ### in addition to the financial envelope as indicated in paragraph 1 , and in order to promote the international dimension of higher education , an indicative amount corresponding to 2 % of the total financial reference amounts included in the different instruments for external action , will be allocated to actions of learning mobility to or from countries other than those as referred to in article 18 and to cooperation and policy dialogue with authorities / institutions / organisations from these countries . the provisions of this regulation will apply to the use of those funds , while ensuring conformity with the legal basis for the external instruments from which the funding is derived .


### the funding will be made available through 2 multi annual allocations only covering the first 4 years and the remaining 3 years respectively . this funding will be reflected in the multiannual indicative programming of these instruments , in line with the identified needs and priorities of the countries concerned . the allocations can be revised in case of major unforeseen circumstances or important political changes in line with the eu external priorities . cooperation with non participating countries may be based , where relevant , on additional appropriations from partner countries to be made available in accordance with procedures to be agreed with these countries . ### the funding shall be made available through two multi - annual allocations only covering the first four years and the remaining three years respectively . this funding shall be based on the multiannual indicative programming of the participating instruments , in line with the identified needs and priorities of the countries concerned . the allocations can be revised in the event of major unforeseen circumstances or important political changes in line with the union ' s external priorities . cooperation with third countries may be based , where relevant , on additional appropriations from partner countries to be made available in accordance with procedures to be agreed with those countries .


### the funding will be made available through 2 multi annual allocations only covering the first 4 years and the remaining 3 years respectively . this funding will be reflected in the multiannual indicative programming of these instruments , in line with the identified needs and priorities of the countries concerned . the allocations can be revised in case of major unforeseen circumstances or important political changes in line with the eu external priorities . cooperation with non participating countries may be based , where relevant , on additional appropriations from partner countries to be made available in accordance with procedures to be agreed with these countries . ### the funding shall be made available through 2 multi annual allocations . this funding shall be based on the multiannual indicative programming of these instruments , in line with the identified needs and priorities of the countries concerned , and , in the case of the dci , specify the regional distribution and the type of actions to be funded . the allocations may be revised in case of major unforeseen circumstances or important political changes in line with the eu external priorities , in accordance with the procedures provided for in the respective external financing instruments . cooperation with non participating countries may be based , where relevant , on additional appropriations from partner countries to be made available in accordance with procedures to be agreed with these countries .


### in accordance with the expected value added of the three types of actions as referred to in article 6 , and with the principles of critical mass , concentration , efficiency and performance , the amount indicated in article 13 will be indicatively allocated as follows : ### in accordance with the expected european added value of the three types of actions set out in article 6 and article 10b , and with the principles of critical mass , concentration , efficiency and performance , the amounts indicated in points and of article 13 shall be indicatively allocated as follows :