### those rights and values must continue to be promoted and enforced and shared among the citizens and peoples and be at the heart of the eu project . therefore , a new justice , rights and values fund , comprising the rights and values and the justice programmes shall be created in the eu budget . at a time where european societies are confronted with extremism , radicalism and divisions , it is more important than ever to promote , strengthen and defend justice , rights and eu values : human rights , respect for human dignity , freedom , democracy , equality , the rule of law . this will have profound and direct implications for political , social , cultural and economic life in the eu . as part of the new fund , the justice programme will continue to support the further development of union area of justice and cross - border cooperation . the rights and values programme will bring together the 2014 - 2020 programme rights , equality and citizenship established by regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council8 and the europe for citizens programme established by council regulation no 390 / 20149 , . _________________ 8 regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 17 december 2013 establishing a rights , equality and citizenship programme for the period 2014 to 2020 9 council regulation no 390 / 2014 of 14 april 2014 establishing the ‘ europe for citizens’ programme for the period 2014 - 2020 ### those rights and values must continue to be cultivated , protected and promoted among the citizens and peoples and be at the heart of the eu project . therefore , a new justice , rights and values fund , comprising the rights and values and the justice programmes shall be created in the eu budget . at a time where european societies are confronted with extremism , radicalism , excessive populism and divisions , it is more important than ever to promote , strengthen and defend justice , rights and eu values : human rights , respect for human dignity , freedom , democracy , equality , the rule of law . it is also crucial to create an environment enabling peaceful democratic dialogue between representatives of different views . this will have profound and direct implications for political , social , cultural and economic life in the eu . as part of the new fund , the justice programme will continue to support the further development of union area of justice and cross - border cooperation . the rights and values programme will bring together the 2014 - 2020 programme rights , equality and citizenship established by regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council8 and the europe for citizens programme established by council regulation no 390 / 20149 , , and it will be adjusted to address new challenges to the european values . _________________ 8 regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 17 december 2013 establishing a rights , equality and citizenship programme for the period 2014 to 2020 9 council regulation no 390 / 2014 of 14 april 2014 establishing the ‘ europe for citizens’ programme for the period 2014 - 2020


### non - discrimination is a fundamental principle of the union . article 19 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union provides for action to combat discrimination based on sex , racial or ethnic origin , religion or belief , disability , age or sexual orientation . non - discrimination is also enshrined in article 21 of the charter . the specific features of the diverse forms of discrimination should be taken into account and appropriate action should be developed in parallel to prevent and combat discrimination on one or more grounds . the programme should support actions to prevent and combat discrimination , racism , xenophobia , anti - semitism , anti - muslim hatred and other forms of intolerance . in that context , particular attention should also be devoted to preventing and combating all forms of violence , hatred , segregation and stigmatisation , as well as combating bullying , harassment and intolerant treatment . the programme should be implemented in a mutually reinforcing manner with other union activities that have the same objectives , in particular with those referred to in the commission communication of 5 april 2011 entitled ‘ an eu framework for national roma integration strategies up to 202010 ’ and in the council recommendation of 09 december 2013 on effective roma integration measures in the member states11 . __________________ 10 com173 . 11 oj c 378 , 24 . 12 . 2013 , p . 1 . ### non - discrimination is a fundamental principle of the union . article 19 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union provides for action to combat discrimination based on sex , racial or ethnic origin , religion or belief , disability , age or sexual orientation . non - discrimination is also enshrined in article 21 of the charter . the specific features of the diverse forms of discrimination should be taken into account and appropriate action should be developed in parallel to prevent and combat discrimination on one or more grounds . the programme should support actions to prevent and combat discrimination , misogyny , ageism , racism , xenophobia , anti - semitism , anti - muslim hatred and other forms of intolerance , taking into account the multiple levels of discrimination faced by women . in that context , particular attention should also be devoted to preventing and combating all forms of violence , hatred , segregation and stigmatisation , as well as combating bullying , harassment and intolerant treatment . the programme should be implemented in a mutually reinforcing manner with other union activities that have the same objectives , in particular with those referred to in the commission communication of 5 april 2011 entitled ‘ an eu framework for national roma integration strategies up to 202010 ’ and in the council recommendation of 09 december 2013 on effective roma integration measures in the member states11 . __________________ 10 com173 . 11 oj c 378 , 24 . 12 . 2013 , p . 1 .


### the rights and values programme should allow developing synergies to tackle the challenges that are common to the promotion and protection of values and to reach a critical dimension to have concrete results in the field . that should be achieved by building on the positive experience of the predecessor programmes . this will enable to fully exploit the potential of synergies , to more effectively support the policy areas covered and to increase their potential to reach people . to be effective , the programme should take into account the specific nature of the different policies , their different target groups and their particular needs through tailor - made approaches . ### the rights and values programme should address the most important challenges to the promotion and protection of values , taking into account that the challenges may vary across the union . to ensure concrete impact , the programme should build on the lessons of the predecessor programmes . it should also take advantage of synergies with other policies and programmes of the union and of other actors . this will increase their effectiveness and efficiency and will increase their potential to reach people . to be effective , the programme should take into account the specific nature of the different policies , their different target groups and their particular needs through tailor - made approaches .


### to fight violence . ### to fight gender - based violence .


### gender - based violence and violence against children and young people constitute a serious violation of fundamental rights . violence persists throughout the union , in all social and economic contexts , and has serious repercussions on victims’ physical and psychological health and on society as a whole . children , young people and women are particularly vulnerable to violence , in particular in close relationships . action should be taken to promote the rights of the child and to contribute to the protection of children from harm and violence , which pose a danger to their physical and mental health and constitute a breach of their rights to development , protection and dignity . combating all forms of violence , promoting prevention and protecting and supporting victims are priorities of the union which help fulfil individuals’ fundamental rights and contribute to equality between women and men . those priorities should be supported by the programme . ### violence against women and violence against children and young people constitute a serious violation of fundamental rights . violence persists throughout the union , in all social and economic contexts , and has serious repercussions on victims’ physical and psychological health and on society as a whole . children , young people and women are particularly vulnerable to violence , in particular in close relationships . action should be taken to promote the rights of the child and to contribute to the protection of children from harm and violence , which pose a danger to their physical and mental health and constitute a breach of their rights to development , protection and dignity . the concept of harm and violence should cover the exposition of children to pornography or gratuitous violence . combating all forms of violence , promoting prevention and protecting and supporting victims are priorities of the union which help fulfil individuals’ fundamental rights and contribute to equality between women and men . those priorities should be supported by the programme .


### in order to ensure efficient allocation of funds from the general budget of the union , it is necessary to ensure the european added value of all actions carried out , their complementarity to member states’ actions , while consistency , complementarity and synergies shall be sought with funding programmes supporting policy areas with close links to each other , in particular within the justice , rights and values fund — and thus with the justice programme — as well as with creative europe programme , and erasmus + to realise the potential of cultural crossovers in the fields of culture , media , arts , education and creativity . it is necessary to create synergies with other european funding programmes , in particular in the fields of employment , internal market , enterprise , youth , health , citizenship , justice , migration , security , research , innovation , technology , industry , cohesion , tourism , external relations , trade and development . ### in order to ensure efficient allocation of funds from the general budget of the union , it is necessary to ensure the european added value of all actions carried out , including at local , regional and national level , directed at promoting and safeguarding the values enshrined in article 2 of the treaty oneuropean union . the commission is to seek consistency , synergies and complementarity with member states’ actions , and with other funding programmes supporting policy areas with close links to justice , rights and values fund , including with creative europe programme , and erasmus + , as well as with relevant policies of the union .


### the rights and values programme should allow developing synergies to tackle the challenges that are common to the promotion and protection of values and to reach a critical dimension to have concrete results in the field . that should be achieved by building on the positive experience of the predecessor programmes . this will enable to fully exploit the potential of synergies , to more effectively support the policy areas covered and to increase their potential to reach people . to be effective , the programme should take into account the specific nature of the different policies , their different target groups and their particular needs through tailor - made approaches . ### the rights and values programme should allow developing synergies to tackle the challenges that are common to the promotion and protection of values and to reach the critical dimension necessary at all levels to have concrete results in the field . that should be achieved by building on the positive experience of the predecessor programmes . this will make it possible to fully exploit the potential of synergies , to more effectively support the policy areas covered and to increase their potential to reach people . to be effective , the programme should take into account the specific nature of the different policies , their different target groups and their particular needs and opportunities for participation through tailor - made and , where necessary to ensure equal participation , targeted approaches to promote all type of equality and gender - equality within .


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


### the programme may provide funding in any of the forms laid down in the financial regulation . ### the programme may provide funding in any of the forms laid down in the financial regulation , which shall ensure sound financial management , prudent use of public funds , low administrative burden for the programme operator and for beneficiaries as well as accessibility of the programme funds to potential beneficiaries . the programme shall provide funding primarily through action grants , annual and multiannual operating grants and core funding . it may use lump sums , unit costs , flat rates and financial assistance for third parties . co - funding shall be accepted in kind and may be waived in cases of limited complementary funding .


### preventing and combating inequalities and discrimination on grounds of sex , racial or ethnic origin , religion or belief , disability , age or sexual orientation , and supporting comprehensive policies to promote gender equality and anti - discrimination and their mainstreaming as well policies to combat racism and all forms of intolerance ; ### preventing and combating inequalities , discrimination and harassment on grounds of sex , racial or ethnic origin , religion or belief , disability , age or sexual orientation or a combination thereof ; and supporting comprehensive policies to promote equality , anti - discrimination , diversity , inclusiveness and their mainstreaming as well policies to combat racism and all forms of hate and intolerance ;


### preventing and combating all forms of violence against children , young people and women , as well as violence against other groups at risk ; ### preventing and combating all forms of gender - based violence and promoting the full implementation of the council of europe convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence at all levels ; and


### independent human rights bodies and civil society organisations play an essential role in promoting , safeguarding and raising awareness of the union’s common values under article 2 teu , and in contributing to the effective enjoyment of rights under union law , including the charter of fundamental rights of the eu . as reflected in the european parliament resolution of 18 april 2018 , adequate financial support is key to the development of a conducive and sustainable environment for civil society organisations to strengthen their role and perform their functions independently and effectively . complementing efforts at national level , eu funding should therefore contribute to support , empower and build the capacity of independent civil society organisations active in the promotion of human rights whose activities help the strategic enforcement of rights under eu law and the charter of fundamental rights of the eu , including through advocacy and watchdog activities , as well as to promote , safeguard and raise awareness of the union’s common values at national level . ### independent human rights bodies and civil society organisations play an essential role in promoting , safeguarding and raising awareness of the union’s common values under article 2 teu , and in contributing to the effective enjoyment of rights under union law , including the charter of fundamental rights of the eu . as reflected in the european parliament resolution of 19 april 2018 , adequate financial support is key to the development of a conducive and sustainable environment for civil society organisations to strengthen their role and perform their functions independently and effectively . complementing efforts at national level , eu funding should therefore contribute to support , empower and build the capacity of independent civil society organisations active in the promotion of union values such as democracy , rule of law and fundamental rights , whose activities help the strategic enforcement of rights under eu law and the charter of fundamental rights of the eu , including through advocacy and watchdog activities , as well as to promote , safeguard and raise awareness of the union’s common values at national level .


### the justice , rights and values fund and its two underlying funding programmes will focus primarily on people and entities , which contribute to make our common values , rights and rich diversity alive and vibrant . the ultimate objective is to nurture and sustain rights - based , equal , inclusive and democratic society . that includes a vibrant civil society , encouraging people’s democratic , civic and social participation and fostering the rich diversity of european society , based on our common history and memory . article 11 of the treaty of the european union further specifies that the institutions shall , by appropriate means , give citizens and representative associations the opportunity to make known and publicly exchange their views in all areas of union action . ### the justice , rights and values fund and its two underlying funding programmes will focus on people and entities , which contribute to make our common values , rights and rich diversity alive and vibrant . the ultimate objective is to nurture and sustain rights - based , equal , inclusive and democratic society . that includes a vibrant , resilient and empowered civil society , which fosters people’s democratic , civic and social participation and cultivates the rich diversity of european society , based on our common values , history and memory . article 11 of the treaty of the european union further specifies that the institutions shall maintain an open , transparent and regular dialogue with civil society and shall , by appropriate means , give citizens and representative associations the opportunity to make known and publicly exchange their views in all areas of union action .


### in order to bring the european union closer to its citizens , a variety of actions and coordinated efforts are necessary . bringing together citizens in town - twinning projects or networks of towns and supporting civil society organisations in the areas covered by the programme will contribute to increase citizens’ engagement in society and ultimately their involvement in the democratic life of the union . at the same time supporting activities promoting mutual understanding , diversity , dialogue and respect for others fosters a sense of belonging and a european identity , based on a shared understanding of european values , culture , history and heritage . the promotion of a greater sense of belonging to the union and of union values is particularly important amongst citizens of the eu outermost regions due to their remoteness and distance from continental europe . ### in order to bring the european union closer to its citizens , a variety of actions and coordinated efforts are necessary . bringing together citizens in town - twinning projects or networks of towns and supporting civil society organisations in the areas covered by the programme will contribute to increase citizens’ engagement in society and ultimately their involvement in the democratic life of the union . at the same time supporting activities promoting mutual understanding , diversity , dialogue , including intercultural and interreligious dialogue , and respect for others fosters a sense of belonging and a european identity , based on a shared understanding of european values , culture , history and heritage . increasing plurality and global migration movements raise the importance of intercultural and inter - religious dialogue in our societies . full support should be given to inter - religious dialogue as a part of social harmony in europe and a key element in solving social tensions . interreligious dialogue could also help to highlight the positive contribution of religion to social cohesion . as religious illiteracy sets the stage for the misuse of religious feelings among the population , support for projects and initiatives developing religious literacy is also important . the promotion of a greater sense of belonging to the union and of union values is particularly important amongst citizens of the eu outermost regions due to their remoteness and distance from continental europe .


### the justice , rights and values fund and its two underlying funding programmes will focus primarily on people and entities , which contribute to make our common values , rights and rich diversity alive and vibrant . the ultimate objective is to nurture and sustain rights - based , equal , inclusive and democratic society . that includes a vibrant civil society , encouraging people ' s democratic , civic and social participation and fostering the rich diversity of european society , based on our common history and memory . article 11 of the treaty of the european union further specifies that the institutions shall , by appropriate means , give citizens and representative associations the opportunity to make known and publicly exchange their views in all areas of union action . ### the justice , rights and values fund and its two underlying funding programmes will focus on people and entities , which contribute to make our common values , rights and rich diversity alive and vibrant . the ultimate objective is to nurture and sustain rights - based , equal , open , inclusive and democratic society by funding activities that promote a vibrant , well - developed , self - reliant and empowered civil society , including advocacy for the promotion and protection of our common values , and that encourage people ' s democratic , civic and social participation and foster peace and the rich diversity of european society , based on our common values , history and memory . article 11 of the treaty of the european union requires that the institutions shall maintain an open , transparent and regular dialogue with civil society and shall , by appropriate means , give citizens and representative associations the opportunity to make known and publicly exchange their views in all areas of union action . the commission should maintain a regular dialogue with the beneficiaries of the programme as well as other relevant stakeholders by setting up a civil dialogue group .


### in order to bring the european union closer to its citizens , a variety of actions and coordinated efforts are necessary . bringing together citizens in town - twinning projects or networks of towns and supporting civil society organisations in the areas covered by the programme will contribute to increase citizens’ engagement in society and ultimately their involvement in the democratic life of the union . at the same time supporting activities promoting mutual understanding , diversity , dialogue and respect for others fosters a sense of belonging and a european identity , based on a shared understanding of european values , culture , history and heritage . the promotion of a greater sense of belonging to the union and of union values is particularly important amongst citizens of the eu outermost regions due to their remoteness and distance from continental europe . ### in order to bring the european union closer to its citizens , a variety of actions and coordinated efforts are necessary . bringing together citizens in town - twinning projects or networks of towns and supporting civil society organisations in the areas covered by the programme will contribute to increase citizens’ engagement in society and ultimately their involvement in the democratic life of the union . at the same time supporting activities promoting mutual understanding , diversity , dialogue and respect for others fosters a sense of belonging and a european identity , based on a shared understanding of european values , culture , history and heritage . the promotion of a greater sense of belonging to the union and of union values is particularly important amongst citizens of the eu outermost regions due to their remoteness and distance from continental europe . the values of mutual understanding , dialogue and respect for diversity can only be embedded on a european level if they are well rooted in member states themselves and in their regions . therefore , the programme should also promote these values within member states in relation to the various national , ethnic , linguistic or religious groups that together make up the cultural richness and diversity of their societies .


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


### the general objective of the programme is to protect and promote rights and values as enshrined in the eu treaties , including by supporting civil society organisations , in order to sustain open , democratic and inclusive societies . ### the general objective of the programme is to protect and promote fundamental human rights and values as enshrined in the eu treaties , including by supporting civil society organisations , in order to sustain open , democratic and inclusive societies , as well as other key stakeholders such as churches and religious associations or communities , think tanks , and research and academic institutions .


### independent human rights bodies and civil society organisations play an essential role in promoting , safeguarding and raising awareness of the union’s common values under article 2 teu , and in contributing to the effective enjoyment of rights under union law , including the charter of fundamental rights of the eu . as reflected in the european parliament resolution of 18 april 2018 , adequate financial support is key to the development of a conducive and sustainable environment for civil society organisations to strengthen their role and perform their functions independently and effectively . complementing efforts at national level , eu funding should therefore contribute to support , empower and build the capacity of independent civil society organisations active in the promotion of human rights whose activities help the strategic enforcement of rights under eu law and the charter of fundamental rights of the eu , including through advocacy and watchdog activities , as well as to promote , safeguard and raise awareness of the union’s common values at national level . ### independent human rights bodies , civil society organisations , and activists play an essential role in promoting , safeguarding and raising awareness of the union’s common values under article 2 teu , and in contributing to the effective enjoyment of rights under union law , including the charter of fundamental rights of the eu . as reflected in the european parliament resolution of 18 april 2018 , adequate financial support is key to the development of a conducive and sustainable environment for civil society organisations to strengthen their role and perform their functions independently and effectively . smaller organisations , which do much to uphold european values and fundamental rights , should be able to receive support without delays or complications . whenever those values and rights come under assault from campaigns and other efforts , emergency funding , obtainable by straightforward application procedures , should be available to support immediate countermeasures . complementing efforts at national level , eu funding should therefore contribute on a continuous long - term basis to supporting , empowering and building the capacity of independent civil society organisations active in the promotion of human rights whose activities help the strategic enforcement of rights under eu law and the charter of fundamental rights of the eu , including through advocacy and watchdog activities , as well as to promoting , safeguarding and raising awareness of the union’s common values at national level . projects in member states where fundamental rights , and hence women’s rights , are being particularly threatened should constitute a further priority . the programme should aim to increase the flexibility and accessibility of its funds and provide the same funding opportunities and conditions for civil society organisations inside as for the ones outside the eu


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


### in order to bring the european union closer to its citizens , a variety of actions and coordinated efforts are necessary . bringing together citizens in town - twinning projects or networks of towns and supporting civil society organisations in the areas covered by the programme will contribute to increase citizens ' engagement in society and ultimately their involvement in the democratic life of the union . at the same time supporting activities promoting mutual understanding , diversity , dialogue and respect for others fosters a sense of belonging and a european identity , based on a shared understanding of european values , culture , history and heritage . the promotion of a greater sense of belonging to the union and of union values is particularly important amongst citizens of the eu outermost regions due to their remoteness and distance from continental europe . ### in order to bring the european union closer to its citizens , a variety of actions and coordinated efforts are necessary . bringing together citizens in town - twinning projects or networks of towns and supporting civil society organisations in the areas covered by the programme will contribute to increase citizens ' awareness and active engagement in society and ultimately their involvement in the democratic and social life of the union strengthening social inclusion and fighting marginalization . at the same time supporting activities promoting mutual understanding , diversity , dialogue and respect for others fosters a sense of belonging , social integration and a european identity , based on a shared understanding of european values , culture , history and heritage . the promotion of a greater sense of belonging to the union and of union values is particularly important amongst citizens of the eu outermost regions due to their remoteness and distance from continental europe . the values of mutual understanding , dialogue and respect for diversity can only be embedded on a european level if they are well - rooted in member states themselves and in their regions . therefore the programme should also promote these values within member states among the various national , ethnic , linguistic or religious groups that together form the cultural richness and diversity of their society .


### the justice , rights and values fund and its two underlying funding programmes will focus primarily on people and entities , which contribute to make our common values , rights and rich diversity alive and vibrant . the ultimate objective is to nurture and sustain rights - based , equal , inclusive and democratic society . that includes a vibrant civil society , encouraging people ' s democratic , civic and social participation and fostering the rich diversity of european society , based on our common history and memory . article 11 of the treaty of the european union further specifies that the institutions shall , by appropriate means , give citizens and representative associations the opportunity to make known and publicly exchange their views in all areas of union action . ### the justice , rights and values fund and its two underlying funding programmes will focus on people and entities , which contribute to support , disseminate and protect our common values , rights and rich diversity , keeping them alive and vibrant . the ultimate objective is to defend , nurture and sustain a rights - based , equal , inclusive and democratic society including a vibrant civil society . the activities financed should aim at encouraging people ' s democratic , civic and social participation and fostering the rich diversity of european society both within and among member states , based on our common values , history and memory . article 11 of the treaty of the european union further specifies that the institutions shall , by appropriate means , give citizens and representative associations the opportunity to make known and publicly exchange their views in all areas of union action .


### preventing and combating inequalities and discrimination on grounds of sex , racial or ethnic origin , religion or belief , disability , age or sexual orientation , and supporting comprehensive policies to promote gender equality and anti - discrimination and their mainstreaming as well policies to combat racism and all forms of intolerance ; ### preventing and combating discrimination as set out in article&#160 ; 21 and of the charter of fundamental rights , in particular discrimination on the grounds of sex , race , colour , ethnic or social origin , genetic features , language , religion or belief , political or any other opinion , membership of a national minority , property , birth , disability , age or sexual orientation , also preventing and combating any discrimination based on nationality , and supporting comprehensive policies to promote gender equality and anti - discrimination and their mainstreaming as well policies to combat racism and all forms of intolerance ;


### those rights and values must continue to be promoted and enforced and shared among the citizens and peoples and be at the heart of the eu project . therefore , a new justice , rights and values fund , comprising the rights and values and the justice programmes shall be created in the union budget . at a time where european societies are confronted with extremism , radicalism and divisions , it is more important than ever to promote , strengthen and defend justice , rights and eu values : human rights , respect for human dignity , freedom , democracy , equality , the rule of law . this will have profound and direct implications for political , social , cultural and economic life in the eu . as part of the new fund , the justice programme will continue to support the further development of union area of justice and cross - border cooperation . the rights and values programme will bring together the 2014 - 2020 programme rights , equality and citizenship established by regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council8 and the europe for citizens programme established by council regulation no 390 / 20149 , . __________________ 8 regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 17 december 2013 establishing a rights , equality and citizenship programme for the period 2014 to 2020 9 council regulation no 390 / 2014 of 14 april 2014 establishing the ‘ europe for citizens’ programme for the period 2014 - 2020 ### those rights and values must continue to be promoted and enforced and shared among the citizens and peoples and be at the heart of the eu project . therefore , a new justice , rights and values fund , comprising the rights and values and the justice programmes shall be created in the union budget . at a time where european societies are confronted with extremism , radicalism and divisions , it is more important than ever to promote , strengthen and defend all the rights and values set out in the founding treaties of the european union : this will have profound and direct implications for political , social , cultural and economic life in the eu . as part of the new fund , the justice programme will continue to support the further development of union area of justice and cross - border cooperation . the rights and values programme will bring together the 2014 - 2020 programme rights , equality and citizenship established by regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council8 and the europe for citizens programme established by council regulation no 390 / 20149 , . __________________ 8 regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 17 december 2013 establishing a rights , equality and citizenship programme for the period 2014 to 2020 9 council regulation no 390 / 2014 of 14 april 2014 establishing the ‘ europe for citizens’ programme for the period 2014 - 2020


### those rights and values must continue to be promoted and enforced and shared among the citizens and peoples and be at the heart of the eu project . therefore , a new justice , rights and values fund , comprising the rights and values and the justice programmes shall be created in the eu budget . at a time where european societies are confronted with extremism , radicalism and divisions , it is more important than ever to promote , strengthen and defend justice , rights and eu values : human rights , respect for human dignity , freedom , democracy , equality , the rule of law . this will have profound and direct implications for political , social , cultural and economic life in the eu . as part of the new fund , the justice programme will continue to support the further development of union area of justice and cross - border cooperation . the rights and values programme will bring together the 2014 - 2020 programme rights , equality and citizenship established by regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council8and the europe for citizens programme established by council regulation no 390 / 20149 , . _________________ 8 regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 17 december 2013 establishing a rights , equality and citizenship programme for the period 2014 to 2020 9 council regulation no 390 / 2014 of 14 april 2014 establishing the ‘ europe for citizens’ programme for the period 2014 - 2020 ### those rights and values must continue to be efficiently promoted , protected and enforced , and shared among the citizens and peoples , and to be at the heart of the eu project . therefore , a new justice , rights and values fund shall be created , in the eu budget , which in comprising the rights and values and the justice programmes will help support open , democratic , pluralist and inclusive societies . at a time where european societies are confronted with extremism , radicalism and divisions , it is more important than ever to promote , strengthen and defend justice , rights and eu values : human rights , respect for human dignity , freedom , democracy , equality , the rule of law . this will have profound and direct implications for political , social , cultural and economic life in the eu . as part of the new fund , the justice programme will continue to support the further development of union area of justice and cross - border cooperation . the rights and values programme will bring together the 2014 - 2020 rights , equality and citizenship programme established by regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council8 , and the europe for citizens programme established by council regulation no 390 / 20149 . _________________ 8 regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 17 december 2013 establishing a rights , equality and citizenship programme for the period 2014 to 2020 9 council regulation no 390 / 2014 of 14 april 2014 establishing the ‘ europe for citizens’ programme for the period 2014 - 2020


### supporting and protecting victims of such violence . ### supporting and ensuring , at a pan - eu level , an equal level of protection to victims of such violence ;


### citizens should also be more aware of their rights deriving from citizenship of the union , and should feel at ease about living , travelling , studying , working and volunteering in another member state , and should feel able to enjoy and exercise all their citizenship rights , place their trust in equal access , full enforceability and protection of their rights without any discrimination , no matter where in the union they happen to be . civil society needs to be supported for the promotion , safeguarding and raising awareness of eu common values under article 2 teu and in contributing to the effective enjoyment of rights under union law . ### citizens should also be more aware of their rights and benefits deriving from citizenship of the union , and should feel at ease about living , travelling , studying , working and volunteering in another member state , and should feel able to enjoy and exercise all their citizenship rights , place their trust in equal access , full enforceability and protection of their rights without any discrimination , no matter where in the union they happen to be . civil society needs to be supported for the promotion , safeguarding and raising awareness of eu common values under article 2 teu and in contributing to the effective enjoyment of rights under union law . at the same time , it is necessary to encourage greater political participation among the public .


### increasing citizens ' understanding of the union , its history , cultural heritage and diversity ; ### increasing awareness of the european union ' s values insofar as this promotes and improves greater understanding among citizens of the union and of its history , cultural heritage and its diversity ;


### independent human rights bodies and civil society organisations play an essential role in promoting , safeguarding and raising awareness of the union’s common values under article 2 teu , and in contributing to the effective enjoyment of rights under union law , including the charter of fundamental rights of the eu . as reflected in the european parliament resolution of 18 april 2018 , adequate financial support is key to the development of a conducive and sustainable environment for civil society organisations to strengthen their role and perform their functions independently and effectively . complementing efforts at national level , eu funding should therefore contribute to support , empower and build the capacity of independent civil society organisations active in the promotion of human rights whose activities help the strategic enforcement of rights under eu law and the charter of fundamental rights of the eu , including through advocacy and watchdog activities , as well as to promote , safeguard and raise awareness of the union’s common values at national level . ### independent human rights bodies and civil society organisations play an essential role in promoting , safeguarding and raising awareness of the union’s common values under article 2 teu , and in contributing to the effective enjoyment of rights under union law , including the charter of fundamental rights of the eu . as reflected in the european parliament resolution of 18 april 2018 , appropriate and adequate financial support is key to the development of a conducive and sustainable environment for civil society organisations to strengthen their role and perform their functions independently and effectively . complementing efforts at national level , eu funding should therefore contribute to support , empower and build the capacity of independent civil society organisations active in the promotion of human rights whose activities help the strategic enforcement of rights under eu law and the charter of fundamental rights of the eu , including through advocacy and watchdog activities , as well as to promote , safeguard and raise awareness of the union’s common values at local , regional and national level .


### independent human rights bodies and civil society organisations play an essential role in promoting , safeguarding and raising awareness of the union’s common values under article 2 teu , and in contributing to the effective enjoyment of rights under union law , including the charter of fundamental rights of the eu . as reflected in the european parliament resolution of 18 april 2018 , adequate financial support is key to the development of a conducive and sustainable environment for civil society organisations to strengthen their role and perform their functions independently and effectively . complementing efforts at national level , eu funding should therefore contribute to support , empower and build the capacity of independent civil society organisations active in the promotion of human rights whose activities help the strategic enforcement of rights under eu law and the charter of fundamental rights of the eu , including through advocacy and watchdog activities , as well as to promote , safeguard and raise awareness of the union’s common values at national level . ### independent human rights bodies and civil society organisations play an essential role in promoting , safeguarding and raising awareness of the union’s common values under article 2 teu , and in contributing to the effective enjoyment of rights under union law , including the charter of fundamental rights of the eu . as reflected in the european parliament resolution of 18 april 2018 , adequate and sufficient financial support is key to the development of a conducive and sustainable environment for civil society organisations to strengthen their role and perform their functions independently and effectively . complementing efforts at national level , eu funding should therefore contribute to support , empower and build the capacity of independent civil society organisations active in the promotion of human rights whose activities help the strategic enforcement of rights under eu law and the charter of fundamental rights of the eu , including through advocacy and watchdog activities , as well as to promote , safeguard and raise awareness of the union’s common values at local , regional and national level .


### 4 . 3 . 1 . for in - conversion agricultural holdings , up to 15 % of the total average amount of feed fed to livestock may originate from the grazing or harvesting of permanent pastures , perennial forage parcels or protein crops , sown under organic management on lands in their first year of conversion , provided that they are part of the holding itself . feed in their first year of conversion may not be used for the production of organic processed feed . when both in - conversion feed and feed from parcels in their first year of conversion are being used , the total combined percentage of such feed shall not exceed the maximum percentages fixed in point 1 . 4 . 3 . 2 . ### 4 . 3 . 1 . for in - conversion agricultural holdings , up to 20 % of the total average amount of feed fed to livestock may originate from the grazing or harvesting of permanent pastures , perennial forage parcels or protein crops , sown under organic management on lands in their first year of conversion , provided that they are part of the holding itself . feed in their first year of conversion may not be used for the production of organic processed feed . when both in - conversion feed and feed from parcels in their first year of conversion are being used , the total combined percentage of such feed shall not exceed the maximum percentages fixed in point 1 . 4 . 3 . 2 .


### by way of derogation from article 211 of regulation no 1308 / 2013 , and subject to an authorization by the commission adopted without applying the procedure referred to in article 37 or of this regulation , member states may grant national payments to compensate farmers for the losses they have incurred due to the contamination of their agricultural products by non - authorised products or substances which prevents them from marketing those products as organic provided that the farmers have taken all appropriate measures to prevent the risk of such contamination . member states may also use the instruments of the common agricultural policy to cover totally or partially such losses . ### by way of derogation from article 211 of regulation no 1308 / 2013 , and subject to an authorisation by the commission adopted without applying the procedure referred to in article 37 or of this regulation , member states may grant national payments to compensate farmers for the losses they have incurred due to the contamination of their agricultural products by non - authorised products or substances which prevents them from marketing those products as organic provided that the farmers have taken all appropriate measures to prevent the risk of such contamination . member states may also use the instruments of the common agricultural policy to cover totally or partially such losses . in cases where operators with a high risk of contamination are established next to an organic farm and where the origin of contamination can be traced , member states shall apply the polluter - pays principle or reserve budgetary resources to compensate for the losses incurred by organic farmers .


### 4 . 2 . origin of poultry poultry shall either be reared until they reach a minimum age or else shall come from slow - growing poultry strains as defined by the competent authority . where slow - growing poultry strains are not used by the farmer the minimum age at slaughter shall be as follows : 81 days for chickens ; 150 days for capons ; 49 days for peking ducks ; 70 days for female muscovy ducks ; 84 days for male muscovy ducks ; 92 days for mallard ducks ; 94 days for guinea fowl ; 140 days for male turkeys and roasting geese ; and 100 days for female turkeys . ### 4 . 2 . origin of poultry fast - growing poultry lines shall be prohibited . poultry shall come from slow - growing poultry strains which meet set limited daily growth rates that are compatible with the minimum rearing ages for each species . the commission shall establish those growth rates in accordance with article 11 . where slow - growing poultry strains are not used by the farmer the minimum age at slaughter shall be as follows : 81 days for chickens ; 150 days for capons ; 49 days for peking ducks ; 70 days for female muscovy ducks ; 84 days for male muscovy ducks ; 92 days for mallard ducks ; 94 days for guinea fowl ; 140 days for male turkeys and roasting geese ; and 100 days for female turkeys .


### ‘ group of operators’ means a group in which each operator is a farmer who has a holding of up to 5 hectares of utilised agricultural area and who may , in addition to producing food or feed , be engaged in processing of food or feed ; ### ‘ group of operators’ means a group in which each operator is a farmer who has a holding of up to 5 hectares or an annual turnover of up to eur 25 000 . the farms of the individual members of the group shall be geographically close to each other .


### exclusion of genetic engineering , animal cloning , artificially induced polyploidy and ionising radiation from the whole organic food chain ; ### exclusion of genetic engineering , including genetically modified organisms and products derived from them , animal cloning , including the use of descendants derived from it , artificially induced polyploidy and ionising radiation from the whole organic food chain ;


### 7 . 10 . any suffering to the animals shall be reduced to a minimum by applying adequate anaesthesia and / or analgesia and by carrying out the operation only at the most appropriate age by qualified personnel . ### 7 . 10 . dehorning shall not be carried out routinely in organic farming . however , that operation may , on a case - by - case basis , be authorised by the competent authority on safety grounds . whenever a surgical intervention is deemed necessary for veterinary reasons , any suffering to the animals shall be reduced to a minimum by applying adequate anaesthesia and prolonged analgesia and by carrying out the operation only at the most appropriate age by authorised and qualified personnel .


### 4 . 1 . for the production of plants and plant products only organically produced plant reproductive material shall be used . to this end , the plant intended for plant reproductive material production and , where relevant , the mother plant shall have been produced in accordance with this regulation for at least one generation , or , in the case of perennial crops , for at least one generation during two growing seasons . ### 4 . 1 . for the production of plants and plant products organically produced plant reproductive material shall be used .


### livestock should be fed on feed materials produced in accordance with the rules of organic production , and preferably coming from the own holding , taking their physiological needs into account . in addition , in order to provide for the basic nutritional requirements of livestock , certain minerals , trace elements and vitamins may need to be used under well - defined conditions . ### livestock should be fed on feed materials produced in accordance with the rules of organic production , and preferably coming from the own holding , taking their physiological needs into account . in addition , in order to provide for the basic nutritional requirements of livestock , certain minerals , trace elements and vitamins may need to be used under well - defined conditions . in this context , the commission should also ensure a derogation for the use in the future of selenium in organic farming . that derogation is to ensure animal welfare through high - quality nutrition , including in those geographical conditions where selenium does not appear naturally in the soil .


### 7 . 6 . tethering or isolation of livestock shall be prohibited , unless for individual animals for a limited period of time , and in so far as this is justified for veterinary reasons . competent authorities may authorise cattle in micro - enterprises to be tethered if it is not possible to keep the cattle in groups appropriate to their behaviour requirements , provided they have access to pastures during the grazing period , and at least twice a week access to open air areas when grazing is not possible . ### 7 . 6 . tethering or isolation of livestock shall be prohibited , unless for individual animals for a limited period of time , and in so far as this is justified for veterinary reasons . for a period of up to [ 15 years from the date of entry into force of the regulation ] , competent authorities may authorise cattle in micro - enterprises to be tethered if it is not possible to keep the cattle in groups appropriate to their behaviour requirements , provided they have access to pastures during the grazing period , and at least twice a week access to open air areas when grazing is not possible .


### 4 . 2 . use of plant reproductive material not obtained from organic production plant reproductive material not obtained from organic production may be used only when it comes from a production unit in conversion to organic production or where it is justified for use in research , test in small - scale field trials or for genetic resources conservation purposes agreed by the competent authority of the member state . ### 4 . 2 . use of plant reproductive material not obtained from organic production plant reproductive material not obtained from organic production may be used only : – if organic material is not available ; – if its use is considered necessary for the regional conservation of biodiversity or a sufficiently wide genetic pool ; – if it comes from a production unit which is in the course of conversion to organic production ; or – where its use is justified for research or testing in small - scale field trials .


### as a matter of principle , the general production rules of this regulation should include a prohibition on the use of ionising radiation and genetically modified organisms and products produced from or by gmos . since consumers are more and more concerned about environmental impacts of food processing and transportation , organic operators other than farmers and operators producing seaweed or aquaculture animals should be required to manage their environmental performance according to a harmonised system . with the objective of minimising the regulatory burden of micro - enterprises as defined in commission recommendation 2003 / 361 / ec27 involved in organic production , it is appropriate to exempt them from this requirement . in order to ensure the correct application of the general production rules , the power to adopt certain acts should be delegated to the commission in respect of establishing the criteria to which the environmental management system is to correspond . ___________________ 27commission recommendation 2003 / 361 / ec of 6 may 2003 concerning the definition of micro , small and medium - sized enterprises . ### as a matter of principle , the general production rules of this regulation should include a prohibition on the use of ionising radiation , genetically modified organisms and products produced from or by gmos , animal cloning including products and descendants derived from it , and artificially induced polyploidy . since consumers are more and more concerned about environmental impacts of food processing and transportation , organic operators other than farmers and operators producing seaweed or aquaculture animals should be required to manage their environmental performance according to a harmonised system . with the objective of minimising the regulatory burden of micro - enterprises as defined in commission recommendation 2003 / 361 / ec27 involved in organic production , it is appropriate to exempt them from this requirement . in order to ensure the correct application of the general production rules , the power to adopt certain acts should be delegated to the commission in respect of establishing the criteria to which the environmental management system is to correspond . ___________________ 27commission recommendation 2003 / 361 / ec of 6 may 2003 concerning the definition of micro , small and medium - sized enterprises .


### 7 . 7 . duration of transport of livestock shall be minimised . ### 7 . 7 . the duration of transport of livestock shall be minimised to a maximum of 8 hours for mammals and 4 hours for poultry . special attention shall be paid when transporting fragile or cull animals .


### 4 . 3 . 2 . for organic agricultural holdings , up to 20 % on average of the feed formula of rations may comprise in - conversion feed , namely feed from the second year of conversion . for in - conversion agricultural holdings , when the in - conversion feed come from the holding itself , this percentage may be increased to 100 . ### 4 . 3 . 2 . for organic agricultural holdings , up to 30 % on average of the feed formula of rations may comprise in - conversion feed , namely feed from the second year of conversion . for in - conversion agricultural holdings , when the in - conversion feed come from the holding itself , this percentage may be increased to 100 .


### taking into account that negotiations with affected wto members will be taking place simultaneously with the ordinary legislative procedure for the adoption of this regulation the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union should be delegated to the commission to amend the annex to this regulation and annex i to regulation no 32 / 2000 with respect to the quantities of the apportioned tariff rate quotas listed therein , in order to take account of any agreements concluded or of pertinent information that it may receive in the context of these negotiations which would indicate that specific factors that were not previously known require an adjustment to the apportionment of the tariff quotas between the union and the united kingdom . the same possibility should also be provided where such information becomes available outside such negotiations . ### taking into account that negotiations with affected wto members with principal or substantial supplying interest , or holding an initial negotiating right , will be taking place simultaneously with the ordinary legislative procedure for the adoption of this regulation the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union should be delegated to the commission to amend the annex to this regulation and annex i to regulation no 32 / 2000 with respect to the quantities of the apportioned tariff rate quotas listed therein , in order to take account of any international agreements concluded .


### ‘ european cybersecurity certificate’ means a document issued by a conformity assessment body attesting that a given ict product or service fulfils the specific requirements laid down in a european cybersecurity certification scheme ; ### ‘ european cybersecurity certificate’ means a an attestation issued either through self - assessment or through an accredited conformity assessment body that a given ict development procedure , product or service has been evaluated using a standardised methodology for conformity assessment against specific security standards laid down in a european cybersecurity certification scheme ;


### identification of national cybersecurity certification schemes covering the same type or categories of ict products and services ; ### identification of national it security certification schemes , pursuant to article 49 , covering the same type or categories of ict products and services ;


### to understand better the challenges in the field of cybersecurity , and with a view to providing strategic long term advice to member states and union institutions , the agency needs to analyse current and emerging risks . for that purpose , the agency should , in cooperation with member states and , as appropriate , with statistical bodies and others , collect relevant information and perform analyses of emerging technologies and provide topic - specific assessments on expected societal , legal , economic and regulatory impacts of technological innovations on network and information security , in particular cybersecurity . the agency should furthermore support member states and union institutions , agencies and bodies in identifying emerging trends and preventing problems related to cybersecurity , by performing analyses of threats and incidents . ### to understand better the challenges in the field of cybersecurity , and with a view to providing strategic long term advice to member states and union institutions , the agency needs to analyse current and emerging risks , incidents , threats and vulnerabilities . for that purpose , the agency should , in cooperation with member states and , as appropriate , with statistical bodies and others , collect relevant information and perform analyses of emerging technologies and provide topic - specific assessments on expected societal , legal , economic and regulatory impacts of technological innovations on network and information security , in particular cybersecurity . the agency should furthermore support member states and union institutions , agencies and bodies in identifying emerging trends and preventing problems related to cybersecurity , by performing analyses of threats , incidents and vulnerabilities .


### the management board , acting on a proposal by the executive director , shall set up a permanent stakeholders ' group composed of recognised experts representing the relevant stakeholders , such as the ict industry , providers of electronic communications networks or services available to the public , consumer groups , academic experts in the cybersecurity , and representatives of competent authorities notified under [ directive establishing the european electronic communications code ] as well as of law enforcement and data protection supervisory authorities . ### the management board , acting on a proposal by the executive director , shall set up a permanent stakeholders ' group composed of recognised experts representing the relevant stakeholders , such as the ict industry , providers of electronic communications networks or services available to the public , consumer groups , the european standardisation organisations , academic experts in the it security , and representatives of competent authorities notified under [ directive establishing the european electronic communications code ] as well as of law enforcement and data protection supervisory authorities .


### a european cybersecurity certification scheme shall attest that the ict products and services that have been certified in accordance with such scheme comply with specified requirements as regards their ability to resist at a given level of assurance , actions that aim to compromise the availability , authenticity , integrity or confidentiality of stored or transmitted or processed data or the functions or services offered by , or accessible via , those products , processes , services and systems . ### a european cybersecurity certification scheme shall attest that the ict products and services that have been certified in accordance with such scheme have no known vulnerabilities at the time of the certification , and comply with specified requirements as regards their ability to resist dynamically at a given level of assurance , actions that aim to compromise the availability , authenticity , integrity or confidentiality of stored or transmitted or processed data or the functions or services offered by , or accessible via , those products , processes , services and systems .


### the commission , based on the candidate scheme proposed by enisa , may adopt implementing acts , in accordance with article 55 , providing for european cybersecurity certification schemes for ict products and services meeting the requirements of articles 45 , 46 and 47 of this regulation . ### the commission , based on the candidate scheme proposed by enisa , may adopt implementing acts , in accordance with article 55 , providing for european cybersecurity certification schemes for ict products , processes and services meeting the requirements of articles 45 , 46 and 47 of this regulation .


### assurance level high shall refer to a certificate issued in the context of a european cybersecurity certification scheme , which provides a higher degree of confidence in the claimed or asserted cybersecurity qualities of an ict product or service than certificates with the assurance level substantial , and is characterised with reference to technical specifications , standards and procedures related thereto , including technical controls , the purpose of which is to prevent cybersecurity incidents . ### assurance level high shall refer to a certificate issued in the context of a european cybersecurity certification scheme , which provides a higher degree of confidence in the claimed or asserted cybersecurity qualities of an ict product or service than certificates with the assurance level substantial , and is characterised with reference to technical specifications , standards and procedures related thereto , including technical controls , the purpose of which is to prevent cybersecurity incidents . the evaluation method must be based on effectiveness tests to assess the ability of the security features to withstand a high - level attacker .


### when preparing candidate schemes referred to in paragraph 1 of this article , enisa shall consult all relevant stakeholders and closely cooperate with the group . the group shall provide enisa with the assistance and expert advice required by enisa in relation to the preparation of the candidate scheme , including by providing opinions where necessary . ### when preparing candidate schemes referred to in paragraph 1 of this article , enisa shall consult all relevant stakeholders and closely cooperate with the group and the permanent stakeholders’ group . the group and the permanent stakeholders’ group shall provide enisa with the assistance and expert advice required by enisa in relation to the preparation of the candidate scheme , including by providing opinions where necessary . where relevant , enisa may in addition set up a certification stakeholder working group , composed of members of the permanent stakeholders’ group and any other relevant stakeholders , to provide expert advice on areas covered by a specific candidate scheme .


### a european cybersecurity certification scheme shall attest that the ict products and services that have been certified in accordance with such scheme comply with specified requirements as regards their ability to resist at a given level of assurance , actions that aim to compromise the availability , authenticity , integrity or confidentiality of stored or transmitted or processed data or the functions or services offered by , or accessible via , those products , processes , services and systems . ### a european cybersecurity certification scheme shall attest that the ict products , processes and services that have been certified in accordance with such scheme comply with specified requirements according to standards , as regards their ability to resist at a given level of assurance .


### a european cybersecurity certification scheme shall attest that the ict products and services that have been certified in accordance with such scheme comply with specified requirements as regards their ability to resist at a given level of assurance , actions that aim to compromise the availability , authenticity , integrity or confidentiality of stored or transmitted or processed data or the functions or services offered by , or accessible via , those products , processes , services and systems . ### a european cybersecurity certification scheme shall attest that the ict products , processes and services that have been certified in accordance with such scheme comply with specified requirements according to standards as regards their ability to meet security objectives ;


### a european cybersecurity certification scheme shall be so designed to take into account , as applicable , the following security objectives : ### a european cybersecurity certification scheme shall be so designed to take into account , as applicable , the following security objectives to ensure the availability , integrity and confidentiality of services :


### following a request from the commission , enisa shall prepare a candidate european cybersecurity certification scheme which meets the requirements set out in articles 45 , 46 and 47 of this regulation . member states or the european cybersecurity certification group established under article 53 may propose the preparation of a candidate european cybersecurity certification scheme to the commission . ### following a request from the commission , enisa shall prepare a candidate european cybersecurity certification scheme which meets the requirements set out in articles 45 , 46 and 47 of this regulation . the request from the commission to prepare a candidate european cybersecurity certification scheme should be justified with one or more of the following reasons : existing cybersecurity certification schemes are fragmenting the internal market ; there is a current or foreseen need to support union ' s legislation ; there is a consensual request from member states , the european cybersecurity certification group established under article 53 or the permanent stakeholder group established under article 20 ; the european commission shall make sure that the request coming from a member state is reflective of a balanced participation of the interested parties concerned , such as industries , including smes , trade unions , civil society and consumers organisation . in this light , member states shall ensure appropriate measures to enable the parties to be consulted at national level on the process of preparing and monitoring certification schemes


### assurance level basic shall refer to a certificate issued in the context of a european cybersecurity certification scheme , which provides a limited degree of confidence in the claimed or asserted cybersecurity qualities of an ict product or service , and is characterised with reference to technical specifications , standards and procedures related thereto , including technical controls , the purpose of which is to decrease the risk of cybersecurity incidents ; ### the risk level basic shall correspond to a low risk&#160 ; related to an ict product , process and service . a low level of risk exists when an attack on the ict product , process and service does not&#160 ; compromise significantly the availability , authenticity , integrity , &#160 ; confidentiality or other important objectives such as the health of users or third parties , the environment , privacy , other important legal interests or critical&#160 ; infrastructures and its supporting systems or products .


### assurance level substantial shall refer to a certificate issued in the context of a european cybersecurity certification scheme , which provides a substantial degree of confidence in the claimed or asserted cybersecurity qualities of an ict product or service , and is characterised with reference to technical specifications , standards and procedures related thereto , including technical controls , the purpose of which is to decrease substantially the risk of cybersecurity incidents ; ### the risk level substantial shall correspond to a higher risk related to an ict product , process and service . a higher level of risk exists when an attack on the ict product , process and service compromises the availability , authenticity , integrity , confidentiality or other important objectives such as the health of users or third parties , the environment , privacy , other important legal interests or critical infrastructures and its supporting systems or products .


### recourse to european cybersecurity certification should remain voluntary , unless otherwise provided in union or national legislation . however , with a view to achieving the objectives of this regulation and avoiding the fragmentation of the internal market , national cybersecurity certification schemes or procedures for the ict products and services covered by a european cybersecurity certification scheme should cease to produce effects from the date established by the commission by means of the implementing act . moreover , member states should not introduce new national certification schemes providing cybersecurity certification schemes for ict products and services already covered by an existing european cybersecurity certification scheme . ### recourse to european cybersecurity certification should remain voluntary , unless otherwise provided in union or national legislation . after this initial stage , and depending on the maturity of implementation in the member states and the criticality of a product or service , it is recognised that , in the future , potentially mandatory schemes for certain ict products , processes and services may begin to evolve in a phased approach for the future generations of technology and in response to the policy objectives of tomorrow . however , with a view to achieving the objectives of this regulation and avoiding the fragmentation of the internal market , national cybersecurity certification schemes or procedures for the ict products and services covered by a european cybersecurity certification scheme should cease to produce effects from the date established by the commission by means of the implementing act . moreover , member states should not introduce new national certification schemes providing cybersecurity certification schemes for ict products and services already covered by an existing european cybersecurity certification scheme .


### subject - matter and scope of the certification , including the type or categories of ict products and services covered ; ### subject - matter and scope of the certification , including the type or categories of ict products , processes and services covered ;


### the agency shall increase cybersecurity capabilities at union level in order to complement the action of member states in preventing and responding to cyber threats , notably in the event of cross - border incidents . ### the agency shall contribute to increased cybersecurity capabilities at union level in order to complement the action of developing member states skills in preventing and responding to cyber threats , including cross - border incidents .


### identification of national cybersecurity certification schemes covering the same type or categories of ict products and services ; ### identification of national or international cybersecurity certification schemes or industry - led initiatives covering the same type or categories of ict products , processes and services ;


### when preparing candidate schemes referred to in paragraph 1 of this article , enisa shall consult all relevant stakeholders and closely cooperate with the group . the group shall provide enisa with the assistance and expert advice required by enisa in relation to the preparation of the candidate scheme , including by providing opinions where necessary . ### when preparing candidate schemes referred to in paragraph 1 of this article , enisa shall define the security objectives , security requirements and elements of the candidate scheme . all aspects regarding the procedures of the conformity assessment will be defined by the commission , based on enisa’s findings . in doing so , enisa shall cooperate closely with the industry interested stakeholders and consult all relevant stakeholders and closely cooperate with the group . the group shall provide enisa with the assistance and expert advice required by enisa in relation to the preparation of the candidate scheme , including by providing opinions where necessary . where relevant , enisa may in addition set up a certification stakeholder working group , composed of members of the permanent stakeholders’ group , industry stakeholders to ensure industry - led approach and any other relevant stakeholders , to provide expert advice on areas covered by a specific candidate scheme ;


### compiling and publishing guidelines and developing good practices concerning the cybersecurity requirements of ict products and services , in cooperation with national certification supervisory authorities and the industry ; ### compiling and publishing guidelines and developing good practices concerning the cybersecurity requirements of ict products and services , in cooperation with national certification supervisory authorities and the industry in a formal , standardised and transparent process ;


### certificates shall be issued for a maximum period of three years and may be renewed , under the same conditions , provided that the relevant requirements continue to be met . ### certificates shall be issued for a maximum period determined on a case by case basis for each scheme and may be renewed , under the same conditions , provided that the relevant requirements continue to be met .


### compiling and publishing guidelines and developing good practices concerning the cybersecurity requirements of ict products and services , in cooperation with national certification supervisory authorities and the industry ; ### compiling and publishing guidelines and developing good practices , including on cyber hygiene principles , concerning the cybersecurity requirements of ict products and services , in cooperation with national certification supervisory authorities and the industry ;


### a european cybersecurity certification scheme may specify one or more of the following assurance levels : basic , substantial and / or high , for ict products and services issued under that scheme . ### a european cybersecurity certification scheme may specify one or more of the following risk - based assurance levels according to the context and intended use of the following ict products , processes , systems and services : basic , substantial and / or high .


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


### when preparing candidate schemes referred to in paragraph 1 of this article , enisa shall consult all relevant stakeholders and closely cooperate with the group . the group shall provide enisa with the assistance and expert advice required by enisa in relation to the preparation of the candidate scheme , including by providing opinions where necessary . ### when preparing candidate schemes referred to in paragraph 1 of this article , enisa shall consult all relevant stakeholders in a formal , standardised and transparent process , and closely cooperate with the group . the group and all relevant stakeholders shall provide enisa with the assistance and expert advice required by enisa in relation to the preparation of the candidate scheme , including by providing opinions where necessary .


### ‘ cyber threat’ means any potential circumstance or event that may adversely impact network and information systems , their users and affected persons . ### ‘ cyber threat’ means any potential circumstance , capability or event that may adversely impact network and information systems , their users and affected persons .


### the agency shall facilitate the establishment of and continuously support sectoral information sharing and analysis centres , in particular in the sectors listed in annex ii of directive 2016 / 1148 , by providing best practices and guidance on available tools , procedure , as well as on how to address regulatory issues related to information sharing . ### the agency shall facilitate the establishment of and continuously support sectoral information sharing and analysis centres , in particular in the sectors listed in annex ii of directive 2016 / 1148 , by providing best practices and guidance on available tools , procedure , cyber hygiene principles , as well as on how to address regulatory issues related to information sharing .


### when preparing candidate schemes referred to in paragraph 1 of this article , enisa shall consult all relevant stakeholders and closely cooperate with the group . the group shall provide enisa with the assistance and expert advice required by enisa in relation to the preparation of the candidate scheme , including by providing opinions where necessary . ### when preparing candidate schemes referred to in paragraph 1 of this article , enisa shall consult in a transparent manner all relevant stakeholders and closely cooperate with the group , the permanent stakeholders ' group and , for each candidate scheme , an ad hoc consultation platform . they shall provide enisa with the assistance and expert advice required by enisa in relation to the preparation of the candidate scheme , including by providing opinions where necessary .


### the union has already taken important steps to ensure cybersecurity and increase trust in digital technologies . in 2013 , an eu cybersecurity strategy was adopted to guide the union ' s policy response to cybersecurity threats and risks . in its effort to better protect europeans online , in 2016 the union adopted the first legislative act in the area of cybersecurity , the directive 2016 / 1148 concerning measures for a high common level of security of network and information systems across the union . the nis directive put in place requirements concerning national capabilities in the area of cybersecurity , established the first mechanisms to enhance strategic and operational cooperation between member states , and introduced obligations concerning security measures and incident notifications across sectors which are vital for economy and society such as energy , transport , water , banking , financial market infrastructures , healthcare , digital infrastructure as well as key digital service providers . a key role was attributed to enisa in supporting implementation of this directive . in addition , effective fight against cybercrime is an important priority in the european agenda on security , contributing to the overall aim of achieving a high level of cybersecurity . ### the union has already taken important steps to ensure cybersecurity and increase trust in digital technologies . in 2013 , an eu cybersecurity strategy was adopted to guide the union ' s policy response to cybersecurity threats and risks . in its effort to better protect europeans online , in 2016 the union adopted the first legislative act in the area of cybersecurity , the directive 2016 / 1148 concerning measures for a high common level of security of network and information systems across the union . the nis directive fulfills the digital single market strategy and together with other instruments , such as the directive establishing the european electronic communications code , regulation 2016 / 679 and directive 2002 / 58 / ec , puts in place requirements concerning national capabilities in the area of cybersecurity , established the first mechanisms to enhance strategic and operational cooperation between member states , and introduced obligations concerning security measures and incident notifications across sectors which are vital for economy and society such as energy , transport , water , banking , financial market infrastructures , healthcare , digital infrastructure as well as key digital service providers . a key role was attributed to enisa in supporting implementation of this directive . in addition , effective fight against cybercrime is an important priority in the european agenda on security , contributing to the overall aim of achieving a high level of cybersecurity .


### preparing candidate european cybersecurity certification schemes for ict products and services in accordance with article 44 of this regulation ; ### preparing candidate european cybersecurity certification schemes for ict products , processes and services in cooperation with the certification stakeholder working group is accordance with article 44 . 2 of this regulation ;


### currently , the cybersecurity certification of ict products and services is used only to a limited extent . when it exists , it mostly occurs at member state level or in the framework of industry driven schemes . in this context , a certificate issued by one national cybersecurity authority is not in principle recognised by other member states . companies thus may have to certify their products and services in several member states where they operate , for example with a view to participating in national procurement procedures . moreover , while new schemes are emerging , there seems to be no coherent and holistic approach with regard to horizontal cybersecurity issues , for instance in the field of the internet of things . existing schemes present significant shortcomings and differences in terms of product coverage , levels of assurance , substantive criteria and actual utilisation . ### currently , the cybersecurity certification of ict products and services is used only to a limited extent . when it exists , it mostly occurs at member state level or in the framework of industry driven schemes . in this context , a certificate issued by one national cybersecurity authority is not in principle recognised by other member states . companies thus may have to certify their products and services in several member states where they operate , for example with a view to participating in national procurement procedures . moreover , while new schemes are emerging , there seems to be no coherent and holistic approach with regard to horizontal cybersecurity issues , for instance in the field of the internet of things . existing schemes present significant shortcomings and differences in terms of product coverage , levels of assurance , substantive criteria and actual utilisation . a case by case approach is required to ensure that services , processes and products are subject to appropriate certification schemes . additionally , a risk - based approach is needed for effective identification and mitigation of risks whilst acknowledging that a one size fits all scheme is not possible .


### assurance level high shall refer to a certificate issued in the context of a european cybersecurity certification scheme , which provides a higher degree of confidence in the claimed or asserted cybersecurity qualities of an ict product or service than certificates with the assurance level substantial , and is characterised with reference to technical specifications , standards and procedures related thereto , including technical controls , the purpose of which is to prevent cybersecurity incidents . ### the risk level high shall correspond to a high risk related to an ict product , process and service . a high level of risk exists when an attack on the ict product , process and service compromises the availability , authenticity , integrity , confidentiality or other important objectives and reasonably endangers the national sovereignty or public security of states .