### the fund shall be implemented by annual or multi annual work programmes established in accordance with article [ 110 ] of the financial regulation . work programmes shall set out , where applicable , the overall amount reserved for blending operations . ### the fund shall be implemented by annual or multi annual work programmes established in accordance with article [ 110 ] of the financial regulation . work programmes shall set out , where applicable , the overall amount reserved for blending operations as well as for the cross border participation of smes . for the establishment of the work programme input from the capability development mechanism shall be taken into consideration .


### independent experts shall be union ' s citizens identified and selected on the basis of calls for expressions of interest addressed to relevant organisations such as ministries of defence and subordinated agencies , research institutes , universities , business associations or enterprises of the defence sector with a view to establishing a list of experts . by derogation from article [ 237 ] of the financial regulation , this list shall not be made public . ### independent experts shall be identified on the basis of excellence based on calls for expressions of interest addressed to relevant organisations such as ministries of defence and subordinated agencies , research institutes , universities , business associations or enterprises of the defence sector with a view to establishing a list of experts . by derogation from article [ 237 ] of the financial regulation , this list shall not be made public .


### by derogation from paragraph 1 , an applicant established in the union or in an associated country and controlled by a non - associated third country or a non - associated third country entity may be eligible for funding if this is necessary for achieving the objectives of the action and provided that its participation will not put at risk the security interests of the union and its member states . in order to ensure protection of the security interests of the union and its member states , the call for proposals shall require the applicant to provide information demonstrating notably that : ### by derogation from paragraph 1 , an applicant or a subcontractor involved in the action established and having its executive management structure in the union or in an associated country and controlled by a non - associated third country or a non - associated third country entity may constitute an eligible entity for funding if this is necessary for achieving the objectives of the programme and provided that its participation will not put at risk the security and defence interests of the union and its member states , or the objective set out in article 3 . in order to ensure protection of the security interests of the union and its member states , the call for proposals shall require the applicant to provide guarantees approved by the member state in which the applicant is located and to commit to implement measures before the beginning of the action ensuring that :


### by derogation from paragraph 1 , an applicant established in the union or in an associated country and controlled by a non - associated third country or a non - associated third country entity may be eligible for funding if this is necessary for achieving the objectives of the action and provided that its participation will not put at risk the security interests of the union and its member states . in order to ensure protection of the security interests of the union and its member states , the call for proposals shall require the applicant to provide information demonstrating notably that : ### by derogation from paragraph 1 , an applicant established in the union or in an associated country and controlled by a non - associated third country or by a non - associated third country entity may be eligible for funding if this is necessary for achieving the objectives of the action and provided that its participation does not contravene the security and defence interests of the union and its member states . in order to ensure protection of the security interests of the union and its member states , the call for proposals shall require the applicant to provide information demonstrating notably that :


### where appropriate , indirect eligible costs beyond the flat rate of 25 % may be determined in accordance with the beneficiary ' s usual cost accounting practices on the basis of actual indirect costs provided that these cost accounting practices are accepted by national authorities under comparable funding schemes in accordance with article [ 185 ] of the financial regulation and communicated to the commission . ### as an alternative , indirect eligible costs may be determined in accordance with the beneficiary ' s usual cost accounting practices on the basis of actual indirect costs provided that these cost accounting practices are accepted by national authorities under comparable funding schemes in accordance with article [ 185 ] of the financial regulation and communicated to the commission .


### by derogation from the paragraph 3 beneficiaries and subcontractors involved in the action may use their assets , infrastructure , facilities and resources located or held on the territory of a non - associated third country if this is necessary for achieving the objectives of an action and provided that this will not put at risk the security of the union and its member states . under the same conditions , when performing an eligible action , beneficiaries and their subcontractors may cooperate with an entity established in a non - associated third country . the costs related to the use of such infrastructure , facilities , assets or resources and to such cooperation shall not be eligible under the fund . ### by derogation from the paragraph 3 , if there are no competitive substitutes readily available in the union , and if this usage would not contravene the security and defence interests of the union and its member states , beneficiaries and subcontractors involved in the action may use their assets , infrastructure , facilities and resources located or held on the territory of a non - associated third country if this is necessary for achieving the objectives of an action and provided that this will not put at risk the security and the defence interests of the union and its member states . under the same conditions , when performing an eligible action , beneficiaries and their subcontractors may cooperate with an entity established in a non - associated third country . the costs related to the use of such infrastructure , facilities , assets or resources and to such cooperation shall not be eligible under the fund .


### following an integrated approach and in order to contribute to the enhancement of the competitiveness and innovation capacity of the union ' s defence industry , a european defence fund should be established . the fund should aim at enhancing the competitiveness , innovation , efficiency and autonomy of the union ' s defence industry thereby contributing to the union ' s strategic autonomy by supporting the cross border cooperation between member states and between enterprises , research centres , national administrations , international organisations and universities , in the research phase and in the development phase of defence products and technologies . to achieve more innovative solutions and an open internal market , the fund should support the cross - border participation of defence small and medium sized enterprises and middle capitalisation companies . ### following an integrated approach and in order to contribute to the enhancement of the competitiveness and innovation capacity of the union ' s defence industry , a european defence fund should be established . the fund should aim at enhancing the competitiveness , innovation , efficiency and technological and industrial autonomy of the union ' s defence industry thereby contributing to the union ' s strategic autonomy by supporting the cross border cooperation between member states and between enterprises , research centres , national administrations , international organisations and universities , in the research phase and in the development phase of defence products and technologies . to achieve more innovative solutions and an open internal market , the fund should support the cross - border participation of defence small and medium sized enterprises and middle capitalisation companies .


### proposals shall be systematically screened to identify those actions raising complex or serious ethics issues and submit them to an ethics assessment . ethics screenings and assessments shall be carried out by the commission with the support of experts on defence ethics . the commission shall ensure the transparency of the ethics procedures as much as possible . ### proposals shall be systematically screened to identify those actions raising complex or serious ethics issues and submit them to an ethics assessment . ethics screenings and assessments shall be carried out by the commission with the support of defence experts on defence ethics . all experts shall be required to be validated by the member state that has issued their security clearance . the appropriate security clearance shall be required before appointment . the commission shall ensure the transparency of the ethics procedures as much as possible .


### the commission shall award funding through open and public consultations on the areas of intervention defined in the work programmes . ### the commission shall award funding through open and public consultations on the areas of intervention defined in the work programmes taking into consideration the capability development mechanism .


### support collaborative development projects of defence products and technologies consistent with defence capability priorities commonly agreed by member states within the framework of the common foreign and security policy , thus contributing to greater efficiency of defence spending within the union , achieving greater economies of scale , reducing the risk of unnecessary duplication and as such reducing the fragmentation of defence products and technologies throughout the union . ultimately , the fund will lead to greater interoperability between member states ' capabilities . ### support collaborative development projects of defence products and technologies consistent with defence capability priorities commonly agreed by member states within the framework of the common foreign and security policy , and in particular in the context of the capability development mechanism , permanent structured cooperation and the coordinated annual review on defence , thus fostering efficiency gains in defence spending within the union , achieving greater economies of scale , eliminating unnecessary duplication and the over dependence on imports from third countries and as such reducing the fragmentation of defence products and technologies throughout the union . ultimately , the fund will lead to greater union strategic autonomy , increasing standardisation and interoperability between member states ' capabilities , thereby improving the effectiveness of their defence expenditure , and to the effective implementation of a sound european defence industrial policy .


### given that the fund aims particularly at enhancing cooperation between legal entities and member states across europe , an action should be eligible for funding only if it is undertaken by a cooperation of at least three legal entities based in at least three different member states and / or associated countries . at least three of these legal eligible entities established in at least two different member states and / or associated countries should not be effectively controlled , directly or indirectly , by the same entity or should not control each other . in order to boost the cooperation between member states the fund may support joint pre - commercial procurement . ### given that the fund aims particularly at enhancing cooperation between legal entities and member states across europe , an action should be eligible for funding only if it is undertaken by a cooperation of at least three legal entities based in at least three different member states and / or associated countries . every type of cooperation that includes legal entities from an associated country should also include at least two legal entities from two different member states . at least three of these legal eligible entities established in at least two different member states and / or associated countries should not be effectively controlled , directly or indirectly , by the same entity or should not control each other . in order to boost the cooperation between member states and cross - border synergies , joint pre - commercial procurement should be eligible for funding .


### following an integrated approach and in order to contribute to the enhancement of the competitiveness and innovation capacity of the union ' s defence industry , a european defence fund should be established . the fund should aim at enhancing the competitiveness , innovation , efficiency and autonomy of the union ' s defence industry thereby contributing to the union ' s strategic autonomy by supporting the cross border cooperation between member states and between enterprises , research centres , national administrations , international organisations and universities , in the research phase and in the development phase of defence products and technologies . to achieve more innovative solutions and an open internal market , the fund should support the cross - border participation of defence small and medium sized enterprises and middle capitalisation companies . ### following an integrated approach and in order to contribute to the enhancement of the competitiveness and innovation capacity of the union ' s defence industry , a european defence fund should be established . the fund should aim at enhancing the competitiveness , innovation and efficiency of the union ' s defence industry through the development of capabilities and strategic capacity in europe , thereby contributing to the union ' s strategic autonomy , which is further enhanced by strengthened relations with strategic partners , by supporting the cross border cooperation between member states and between enterprises , research centres , national administrations , international organisations and universities , and , where appropriate , cooperation with third countries , in the research phase and in the development phase of defence products and technologies . to achieve more innovative solutions and an open internal market , the fund should support the cross - border participation of defence small and medium sized enterprises and middle capitalisation companies .


### the results of the action shall remain within the beneficiary and shall not be subject to control or restrictions by non - associated third countries or other non - associated third country entities during the action and for a specified period after its completion ; ### the results of the action shall remain within the beneficiary and shall not be subject to control or restrictions by non - associated third countries or other non - associated third country entities and cannot be exported or given access outside the union without the approval of the member state in which the undertaking is established in , during and after its completion ;


### unless otherwise provided for in the work programme referred to in article 27 , the action shall be undertaken in a cooperation of at least three legal entities which are established in at least three different member states and / or associated countries . at least three of these eligible entities established in at least two member states and / or associated countries shall not , during the whole implementation of the action , be effectively controlled , directly or indirectly , by the same entity , and shall not control each other . ### the action shall be undertaken in a cooperation within a consortium of at least three legal entities which are established in at least three different member states and / or associated countries . every consortium that includes legal entities from an associated country shall also include at least two legal entities from two different member states . at least three of these eligible entities established in at least two member states and / or associated countries shall not , during the whole implementation of the action , be controlled , directly or indirectly , by the same entity , and shall not control each other .


### by derogation from the paragraph 3 beneficiaries and subcontractors involved in the action may use their assets , infrastructure , facilities and resources located or held on the territory of a non - associated third country if this is necessary for achieving the objectives of an action and provided that this will not put at risk the security of the union and its member states . under the same conditions , when performing an eligible action , beneficiaries and their subcontractors may cooperate with an entity established in a non - associated third country . the costs related to the use of such infrastructure , facilities , assets or resources and to such cooperation shall not be eligible under the fund . ### by derogation from the paragraph 3 , where no competitive substitutes are readily available in the union , beneficiaries and subcontractors involved in the action may use their assets , infrastructure , facilities and resources located or held on the territory of a non - associated third country if that is strictly necessary for achieving the objectives of an action provided that usage does not contravene the security and defence interests of the union and its member states and the objectives of the fund . if necessary , and in order to achieve the objectives of the fund , beneficiaries may cooperate with entities located in third countries , if those have a relevant expertise for the action funded . however , the entities that cooperate with the beneficiaries shall not be located in third countries that are not identified in the work programme .


### support collaborative research projects that could significantly boost the performance of future capabilities , aiming at maximising innovation and introducing new defence products and technologies , including disruptive ones ; ### support collaborative research projects that could significantly boost the performance of future capabilities in the union , aiming at maximising innovation and introducing new defence products and technologies , including disruptive ones ;


### by derogation from paragraph 1 , an applicant established in the union or in an associated country and controlled by a non - associated third country or a non - associated third country entity may be eligible for funding if this is necessary for achieving the objectives of the action and provided that its participation will not put at risk the security interests of the union and its member states . in order to ensure protection of the security interests of the union and its member states , the call for proposals shall require the applicant to provide information demonstrating notably that : ### by derogation from paragraph 1 , an applicant or a subcontractor involved in the action , established in the union or in an associated country and controlled by a non - associated third country or a non - associated third country entity may constitute an eligible entity for funding and provided that its participation will not put at risk the security and defence interests of the union and its member states , or the objective set out in article 3 . in order to ensure protection of the security interests of the union and its member states , the call for proposals shall require the applicant to provide information to the commission demonstrating notably that :


### where appropriate , indirect eligible costs beyond the flat rate of 25 % may be determined in accordance with the beneficiary ' s usual cost accounting practices on the basis of actual indirect costs provided that these cost accounting practices are accepted by national authorities under comparable funding schemes in accordance with article [ 185 ] of the financial regulation and communicated to the commission . ### as an alternative , indirect eligible costs may be determined in accordance with the beneficiary ' s usual cost accounting practices on the basis of actual indirect costs provided that these cost accounting practices are accepted by national authorities .


### where reference is made to this paragraph , article 5 of regulation no 182 / 2011 shall apply . ### where reference is made to this paragraph , article 5 of regulation no 182 / 2011 shall apply . where the committee delivers no opinion , the commission shall not adopt the draft implementing act and the third sub - paragraph of article 5 of regulation no 182 / 2011 shall apply .


### proposals shall be systematically screened to identify those actions raising complex or serious ethics issues and submit them to an ethics assessment . ethics screenings and assessments shall be carried out by the commission with the support of experts on defence ethics . the commission shall ensure the transparency of the ethics procedures as much as possible . ### proposals shall be systematically screened to identify those actions raising complex or serious ethics issues and submit them to an ethics assessment . ethics screenings and assessments shall be carried out by the commission with the support of experts on defence ethics . all experts shall be required to be validated by the member states that has issued their security clearance . the appropriate security clearance shall be required before appointment . the commission shall ensure the transparency of the ethics procedures as much as possible .


### by derogation from paragraph 1 , an applicant established in the union or in an associated country and controlled by a non - associated third country or a non - associated third country entity may be eligible for funding if this is necessary for achieving the objectives of the action and provided that its participation will not put at risk the security interests of the union and its member states . in order to ensure protection of the security interests of the union and its member states , the call for proposals shall require the applicant to provide information demonstrating notably that : ### by derogation from paragraph 1 , an applicant established in the union or in an associated country and controlled by a non - associated third country or by a non - associated third country entity may be eligible for funding if this is necessary for achieving the objectives of the action and provided that its participation does not contravene the security and defence interests of the union and its member states . in order to ensure protection of the security interests of the union and its member states , the call for proposals shall require the applicant to provide information demonstrating notably that :


### support collaborative research projects that could significantly boost the performance of future capabilities , aiming at maximising innovation and introducing new defence products and technologies , including disruptive ones ; ### support collaborative research projects that could significantly boost the performance of future defence and defence industrial capabilities , aiming at maximising innovation and introducing new defence products and technologies , including disruptive ones , including in cyber - defence ;


### the commission shall be assisted by a committee within the meaning of regulation no 182 / 2011 . the european defence agency shall be invited as an observer to provide its views and expertise . the european external action service shall also be invited to assist . ### the commission shall be assisted by a committee within the meaning of regulation no 182 / 2011 . the european defence agency shall be invited as an observer to provide its views and expertise . the european external action service shall also be invited to assist . the committee shall also meet in special configurations , including in order to discuss defence and security aspects ;


### where appropriate , indirect eligible costs beyond the flat rate of 25 % may be determined in accordance with the beneficiary ' s usual cost accounting practices on the basis of actual indirect costs provided that these cost accounting practices are accepted by national authorities under comparable funding schemes in accordance with article [ 185 ] of the financial regulation and communicated to the commission . ### as an alternative , indirect eligible costs beyond the flat rate of 25% may be determined in accordance with the beneficiary ' s usual cost accounting practices on the basis of actual indirect costs provided that these cost accounting practices are accepted by national authorities under comparable funding schemes in accordance with article [ 185 ] of the financial regulation and communicated to the commission .


### the results of the action shall remain within the beneficiary and shall not be subject to control or restrictions by non - associated third countries or other non - associated third country entities during the action and for a specified period after its completion ; ### ownership of the intellectual property arising from , and the results of , the action remain within the beneficiary and are not subject to control or restrictions by non - associated third countries or other non - associated third country entities during the action and for a specified period after its completion and are not exported to , or given access to from , a third country without the approval of the member states in which the undertaking is established and in accordance with the objectives set out in article 3 . that period shall be stipulated in the grant agreement .


### the general objective of the fund is to foster the competitiveness , efficiency and innovation capacity of the european defence industry , by supporting collaborative actions and cross - border cooperation between legal entities throughout the union , including smes and mid - caps as well as fostering the better exploitation of the industrial potential of innovation , research and technological development , at each stage of the industrial life cycle , thus contributing to the union strategic autonomy . the fund should also contribute to the freedom of action of the union and its autonomy , in particular in technological and industrial terms . ### the general objective of the fund is to enable the union to apply its competence to implement a common foreign and security policy , including the progressive framing of a common defence policy , to contribute to the strategic priorities under the cfsp / csdp framework , and to foster the inclusivity , integration , interoperability , competitiveness , efficiency and innovation capacity of the technological and industrial base of the european defence sector , by supporting collaborative actions and cross - border cooperation between legal entities throughout europe , including smes and mid - caps as well as fostering the better exploitation of the industrial potential of innovation , research and technological development , at each stage of the life cycle of a defence product or service . it is important that more concrete proposals are put forward on how to improve the cross - border defence market access of smes and mid - caps . the fund should also contribute to the union ' s security and defence interests , to the freedom of action of the union , to its strategic , technological and industrial autonomy , as well as to the development and improvement of more advanced member states ' defence capabilities . taking more responsibility for its own security will also serve nato .


### the general objective of the fund is to foster the competitiveness , efficiency and innovation capacity of the european defence industry , by supporting collaborative actions and cross - border cooperation between legal entities throughout the union , including smes and mid - caps as well as fostering the better exploitation of the industrial potential of innovation , research and technological development , at each stage of the industrial life cycle , thus contributing to the union strategic autonomy . the fund should also contribute to the freedom of action of the union and its autonomy , in particular in technological and industrial terms . ### the general objective of the fund is to foster the competitiveness , efficiency and innovation capacity of the european defence industry throughout the union , by supporting collaborative actions and cross - border cooperation between legal entities , including smes and mid - caps as well as by strengthening and improving the agility of both defence supply and value chains , bolstering new cross - border cooperation between legal entities and fostering the better exploitation of the industrial potential of innovation , research and technological development , at each stage of the life cycle of defence products and technologies , thus contributing to the union ' s industrial strategic autonomy . the fund shall thus contribute to the freedom of action of the union and its strategic autonomy .


### the commission will take into account the other activities financed under the horizon europe framework programme in order to avoid unnecessary duplication and ensure the cross - fertilisation between civil and defence research . ### the commission will take into account the other activities financed under the horizon europe framework programme in order to avoid unnecessary duplication , ensure the cross - fertilisation and synergy between civil and defence research and ensure that horizon europe remains a purely civil research programme .


### where appropriate , indirect eligible costs beyond the flat rate of 25 % may be determined in accordance with the beneficiary ' s usual cost accounting practices on the basis of actual indirect costs provided that these cost accounting practices are accepted by national authorities under comparable funding schemes in accordance with article [ 185 ] of the financial regulation and communicated to the commission . ### as an alternative , indirect eligible costs may be determined in accordance with the beneficiary ' s usual cost accounting practices on the basis of actual indirect costs provided that these cost accounting practices are accepted by national authorities under comparable funding schemes in accordance with article [ 185 ] of the financial regulation and communicated to the commission .


### the promotion of innovation and technological development in the union defence industry should take place in a manner coherent with the security and defence interests of the union . accordingly , the action ' s contribution to those interests and to the defence research and capability priorities commonly agreed by member states should serve as an award criterion . within the union , common defence research and capability shortfalls are identified in the common security and defence policy framework notably through overarching strategic research agenda and the capability development plan . other union processes such as the coordinated annual review on defence and the permanent structured cooperation will support the implementation of relevant priorities through identifying and taking forward opportunities for enhanced cooperation with a view to fulfilling the eu level of ambition on security and defence . where appropriate , regional and international priorities , including those in the north atlantic treaty organisation context , may also be taken into account if they are in line with union priorities and do not prevent any member state or an associated country from participating , while also taking into account that unnecessary duplication should be avoided . ### the promotion of innovation and technological development in the union defence industry should serve the security and defence interests of the union and the member states . taking into account the specific nature of the defence sector , any action in the field of defence industry should be closely coordinated and be coherent with the common foreign and security policy and its priorities . accordingly , the action ' s contribution to those interests and to the defence research and capability priorities commonly agreed by member states should serve as an award criterion . within the union , common defence research and capability shortfalls are identified in the common security and defence policy framework notably through the capability development mechanism . other union processes such as the coordinated annual review on defence and the permanent structured cooperation will support the implementation of relevant priorities through identifying and taking forward opportunities for enhanced cooperation with a view to fulfilling the eu level of ambition on security and defence . where appropriate , regional and international priorities , including those in the north atlantic treaty organisation context , should also be taken into account if they are in line with union priorities and do not prevent any member state or an associated country from participating , while also taking into account that unnecessary duplication should be avoided .


### given that the fund aims particularly at enhancing cooperation between legal entities and member states across europe , an action should be eligible for funding only if it is undertaken by a cooperation of at least three legal entities based in at least three different member states and / or associated countries . at least three of these legal eligible entities established in at least two different member states and / or associated countries should not be effectively controlled , directly or indirectly , by the same entity or should not control each other . in order to boost the cooperation between member states the fund may support joint pre - commercial procurement . ### given that the fund aims particularly at enhancing cooperation between legal entities and member states across europe , an action should be eligible for funding only if it is undertaken by a cooperation of at least three legal entities based in at least three different member states and / or associated countries . every type of cooperation that includes legal entities from an associated country should also include at least two legal entities from two different member states . at least three of these legal eligible entities established in at least two different member states and / or associated countries should not be controlled , directly or indirectly , by the same entity or should not control each other . in order to boost the cooperation between member states the fund may support joint pre - commercial procurement .


### by derogation from the paragraph 3 beneficiaries and subcontractors involved in the action may use their assets , infrastructure , facilities and resources located or held on the territory of a non - associated third country if this is necessary for achieving the objectives of an action and provided that this will not put at risk the security of the union and its member states . under the same conditions , when performing an eligible action , beneficiaries and their subcontractors may cooperate with an entity established in a non - associated third country . the costs related to the use of such infrastructure , facilities , assets or resources and to such cooperation shall not be eligible under the fund . ### by derogation from the paragraph 3 , if there are no competitive substitutes readily available in the union , beneficiaries and subcontractors involved in the action may use their assets , infrastructure , facilities and resources located or held on the territory of a non - associated third country if this is necessary for achieving the objectives of an action provided that this will not contravene the security and defence interests of the union and its member states and the objectives of the programme . under the same conditions , when performing an eligible action , beneficiaries and their subcontractors may cooperate with an entity established in a non - associated third country . the costs related to the use of such infrastructure , facilities , assets or resources and to such cooperation shall not be eligible under the fund .


### support collaborative development projects of defence products and technologies consistent with defence capability priorities commonly agreed by member states within the framework of the common foreign and security policy , thus contributing to greater efficiency of defence spending within the union , achieving greater economies of scale , reducing the risk of unnecessary duplication and as such reducing the fragmentation of defence products and technologies throughout the union . ultimately , the fund will lead to greater interoperability between member states ' capabilities . ### support collaborative development projects of defence products and technologies consistent with defence capability priorities commonly agreed by member states within the framework of the common foreign and security policy , and in particular in the context of the capability development mechanism , permanent structured cooperation and the coordinated annual review on defence , thus fostering efficiency gains in defence spending within the union , achieving greater economies of scale , eliminating unnecessary duplication and the over dependence on imports from third countries and as such reducing the fragmentation of defence products and technologies throughout the union . ultimately , the fund will lead to greater union strategic autonomy , increasing standardisation and interoperability between member states ' capabilities , thereby improving the effectiveness of their defence expenditure , and to the effective implementation of a sound european defence industrial policy .


### ' development action ' means any action consisting primarily of defence - oriented activities in the development phase , covering new products or technologies or the upgrading of existing ones , excluding the production or use of weapons ; ### ' development action ' means any action consisting exclusively of defence - oriented activities in the development phase , covering new products or technologies or the upgrading of existing ones , excluding the production or use of weapons ;


### the fund would contribute to the establishment of a strong , competitive and innovative defence industrial and technological base and go hand in hand with the union ' s initiatives towards a more integrated european defence market and in particular , the two directives6 on procurement and on eu transfers in the defence sector adopted in 2009 . __________________ 6 directive 2009 / 43 / ec of the european parliament and of the council , simplifying terms and conditions of transfers of defence - related products within the community , oj l 146 , 10 . 6 . 2009 , p . 1 ; directive 2009 / 81 / ec of the european parliament and of the council on the coordination of procedures for the award of certain works contracts , supply contracts and service contracts by contracting authorities or entities in the fields of defence and security , oj l 216 , 20 . 8 . 2009 , p . 76 . ### the fund would contribute to the establishment of a strong , competitive and innovative defence industrial and technological base and go hand in hand with the union ' s initiatives towards a more integrated european defence market and in particular , the two directives6 on procurement and on eu transfers in the defence sector adopted in 2009 . it is therefore crucial that key regulatory preconditions are fulfilled , in particular the full implementation of those directives . __________________ 6 directive 2009 / 43 / ec of the european parliament and of the council , simplifying terms and conditions of transfers of defence - related products within the community ; directive 2009 / 81 / ec of the european parliament and of the council on the coordination of procedures for the award of certain works contracts , supply contracts and service contracts by contracting authorities or entities in the fields of defence and security , oj l 216 , 20 . 8 . 2009 , p . 76 .


### the grant agreement shall , if justified , lay down the right of the commission to be notified of and object to the transfer of ownership to results or to the granting of a license regarding results to a non - associated third country or a non - associated third country entity . such transfers shall not contravene the defence and security interests of the union and its member states or the objectives of this regulation as set out in article 3 . ### the grant agreement shall , if justified , lay down the right of the commission to be notified of and object to the transfer of ownership to results or to the granting of a license regarding results to a non - associated third country or a non - associated third country entity . such transfers shall not contravene the defence and security interests of the union and its member states or the objectives of this regulation as set out in article 3 . these provisions do not affect the export of products , equipment nor technologies integrating results , and no dot affect the discretion of member states and associated countries regarding policy on the export of defence and related products .


### by derogation from the paragraph 3 beneficiaries and subcontractors involved in the action may use their assets , infrastructure , facilities and resources located or held on the territory of a non - associated third country if this is necessary for achieving the objectives of an action and provided that this will not put at risk the security of the union and its member states . under the same conditions , when performing an eligible action , beneficiaries and their subcontractors may cooperate with an entity established in a non - associated third country . the costs related to the use of such infrastructure , facilities , assets or resources and to such cooperation shall not be eligible under the fund . ### by derogation from the paragraph 3 , where no competitive substitutes are readily available in the union , beneficiaries and subcontractors involved in the action may use their assets , infrastructure , facilities and resources located or held on the territory of a non - associated third country if that is strictly necessary for achieving the objectives of an action provided that usage does not contravene the security and defence interests of the union and its member states and the objectives of the fund . if necessary , and in order to achieve the objectives of the fund , beneficiaries may cooperate with entities located in third countries , if those have a relevant expertise for the action funded . however , the entities that cooperate with the beneficiaries shall not be located in third countries that are not identified in the work programme .


### independent experts shall be union ' s citizens identified and selected on the basis of calls for expressions of interest addressed to relevant organisations such as ministries of defence and subordinated agencies , research institutes , universities , business associations or enterprises of the defence sector with a view to establishing a list of experts . by derogation from article [ 237 ] of the financial regulation , this list shall not be made public . ### independent experts shall be union ' s citizens , from a broad range of member states identified and selected on the basis of open and transparent calls for expressions of interest addressed to relevant organisations such as ministries of defence and subordinated agencies , research institutes , universities , business associations or enterprises of the defence sector , non - governmental organisations with a view to establishing a list of experts that aims to attain gender balance . by derogation from article [ 237 ] of the financial regulation , this list shall not be made public .


### this regulation lays down a financial envelope for the esf + . parts of this financial envelope should be used for actions to be implemented in direct and indirect management under the employment and social innovation and health strands . ### this regulation lays down a financial envelope for the esf + . it specifies the allocations for activities to be implemented under shared management and the allocations for actions to be implemented in direct and indirect management under the employment and social innovation and health strands .


### since the objectives of this directive , which are to improve living and working conditions and to protect the health of workers from the specific risks arising from exposure to carcinogens , cannot be sufficiently achieved by the member states , but can be better achieved at union level , the union may adopt measures , in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity as set out in article 5 of the treaty on european union . in accordance with the principle of proportionality , as set out in article 5 of the teu , this directive does not go beyond what is necessary in order to achieve those objectives . ### since the objectives of this directive , which are to improve living and working conditions and to protect the health of workers from the specific risks arising from exposure to carcinogens and mutagens , cannot be sufficiently achieved by the member states , but can be better achieved at union level , the union may adopt measures , in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity as set out in article 5 of the treaty on european union . in accordance with the principle of proportionality , as set out in article 5 of the teu , this directive does not go beyond what is necessary in order to achieve those objectives .


### certain polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons mixtures containing benzo [ a ] pyrene meet the criteria for classification as carcinogenic in accordance with regulation no 1272 / 2008 and therefore are carcinogens as defined in directive 2004 / 37 / ec . the committee identified the possibility of significant uptake through the skin for these mixtures . it is therefore appropriate to set out a skin notation in part b of annex iii to directive 2004 / 37 / ec indicating the possibility of significant dermal uptake . ### certain polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons mixtures , including those containing benzo [ a ] pyrene , meet the criteria for classification as carcinogenic in accordance with regulation no 1272 / 2008 and therefore are carcinogens as defined in directive 2004 / 37 / ec . the scoel identified the possibility of significant uptake through the skin for these mixtures . the acsh has agreed on the importance of introducing an occupational exposure limit value for pahs and has recommended to carry out the work to evaluate the scientific aspects with the view to proposing an occupational exposure limit value at some time in the future . it is therefore appropriate to set out a skin notation in part b of annex iii to directive 2004 / 37 / ec indicating the possibility of significant dermal uptake and to carry out further investigations to set a limit value for benzo [ a ] pyrene in order better to protect workers from polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons mixtures .


### the commission consulted the advisory committee on safety and health at work , set up by council decision of 22 july 2003 . it also carried out a two - stage consultation of the european social partners in accordance with article 154 of the tfeu . ### the commission consulted the acsh and carried out a two - stage consultation of the european social partners in accordance with article 154 of the tfeu .


### 4 , 4 ' - methylenedianiline meets the criteria for classification as carcinogenic in accordance with regulation no 1272 / 2008 and therefore is a carcinogen as defined in directive 2004 / 37 / ec . it is possible , on the basis of available information , including scientific and technical data , to set a limit value for 4 , 4 ' - methylenedianiline . the committee identified for this carcinogen the possibility of significant uptake through the skin . it is therefore appropriate to establish a limit value in part a of annex iii for 4 , 4 ' - methylenedianiline and to set out a skin notation in part b of annex iii to directive 2004 / 37 / ec indicating the possibility of significant dermal uptake . ### 4 , 4 ' - methylenedianiline meets the criteria for classification as carcinogenic in accordance with regulation no 1272 / 2008 and therefore is a carcinogen as defined in directive 2004 / 37 / ec . it is concluded that there is no possibility to derive a precise health - based exposure limit value for this non - threshold carcinogen . on the basis of available information , including scientific and technical data , it is still possible , however , to set a limit value for 4 , 4 ' - methylenedianiline without over exaggerated values by avoiding harming smes with limited financial assets as well as effectively protecting employees ' health status and employment opportunities . it is also identified for this carcinogen the possibility of significant uptake through the skin . it is therefore appropriate to establish a limit value in part a of annex iii for 4 , 4 ' - methylenedianiline and to set out a skin notation in part b of annex iii to that directive indicating the possibility of significant dermal uptake .


### directive 2004 / 37 / ec aims to protect workers against risks to their health and safety from exposure to carcinogens or mutagens at the workplace and lays down minimum requirements to that effect including limit values , on the basis of the available scientific and technical data . ### directive 2004 / 37 / ec aims to protect workers against risks to their health and safety from exposure to carcinogens or mutagens at the workplace and lays down minimum requirements to that effect including binding occupational exposure limit values which must not be exceeded , on the basis of the available scientific and technical data .


### there is sufficient evidence of the carcinogenicity of oils that have been used before in internal combustion engines to lubricate and cool the moving parts within the engine . these used engine oils are process - generated and therefore they are not subject to classification in accordance with regulation no 1272 / 2008 of the european parliament and of the council57 . the committee identified the possibility of significant uptake through the skin for these oils , assessed that occupational exposure occurs through the dermal route and strongly recommended the establishment of a skin notation . it is therefore appropriate to include work involving exposure to oils that have been used before in internal combustion engines to lubricate and cool the moving parts within the engine in annex i to directive 2004 / 37 / ec and to set out a skin notation in part b of annex iii to directive 2004 / 37 / ec indicating the possibility of significant dermal uptake . __________________ 57 regulation no 1272 / 2008 of the european parliament and of the council of 16 december 2008 on classification , labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures . ### there is sufficient evidence of the carcinogenicity of oils that have been used before in internal combustion engines to lubricate and cool the moving parts within the engine . these used engine oils are process - generated and therefore they are not subject to classification in accordance with regulation no 1272 / 2008 of the european parliament and of the council57 . the scoel identified the possibility of significant uptake through the skin for these oils , assessed that occupational exposure occurs through the dermal route and strongly recommended the establishment of a skin notation . the acsh has agreed on an entry of used engine oils in annex i to directive 2004 / 37 / ec while agreeing that the route of exposure of concern is the skin . it is therefore appropriate to include work involving exposure to oils that have been used before in internal combustion engines to lubricate and cool the moving parts within the engine in annex i to directive 2004 / 37 / ec and to set out a skin notation in part b of annex iii to directive 2004 / 37 / ec indicating the possibility of significant dermal uptake . __________________ 57 regulation no 1272 / 2008 of the european parliament and of the council of 16 december 2008 on classification , labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures .


### ethylene dibromide meets the criteria for classification as carcinogenic in accordance with regulation no 1272 / 2008 and therefore is a carcinogen as defined in directive 2004 / 37 / ec . the committee concluded that that is not possible to derive a health - based exposure limit value for this non - threshold carcinogen and has recommended avoiding occupational exposure . the committee identified for ethylene dibromide the possibility of significant uptake through the skin . the advisory committee on safety and health at work has agreed on a practical limit value , on the basis of the available information , including scientific and technical data . it is therefore appropriate to establish a limit value for ethylene dibromide in part a of annex iii and to set out a skin notation in part b of annex iii to directive 2004 / 37 / ec indicating the possibility of significant dermal uptake . ### ethylene dibromide meets the criteria for classification as carcinogenic in accordance with regulation no 1272 / 2008 and therefore is a carcinogen as defined in directive 2004 / 37 / ec . the scientific committee concluded that that is not possible to derive a health - based exposure limit value for this non - threshold carcinogen and has recommended avoiding occupational exposure . the scoel identified for ethylene dibromide the possibility of significant uptake through the skin . the acsh has agreed on a practical limit value , on the basis of the available information , including scientific and technical data . it is therefore appropriate to establish a limit value for ethylene dibromide in part a of annex iii and to set out a skin notation in part b of annex iii to directive 2004 / 37 / ec indicating the possibility of significant dermal uptake .


### the scientific committee on occupational exposure limits 55 assists the commission , in particular , in evaluating the latest available scientific data and in proposing occupational exposure limit values for the protection of workers from chemical risks , to be set at union level pursuant to council directive 98 / 24 / ec56 and directive 2004 / 37 / ec . other sources of scientific information , adequately robust and in the public domain were also considered . __________________ 55 commission decision 2014 / 113 / eu of 3 march 2014 on setting up a scientific committee on occupational exposure limits for chemical agents and repealing decision 95 / 320 / ec . 56 council directive 98 / 24 / ec of 7 april 1998 on the protection of the health and safety of workers from the risks related to chemical agents at work of directive 89 / 391 / eec ) . ### the scientific committee on occupational exposure limits 55 and the advisory committee on safety and health at work 55a assist the commission , in particular , in evaluating the latest available scientific and technical data and in proposing occupational exposure limit values for the protection of workers from chemical risks , to be set at union level pursuant to council directive 98 / 24 / ec56 and directive 2004 / 37 / ec . other sources of scientific information , adequately robust and in the public domain were also considered . __________________ 55 commission decision 2014 / 113 / eu of 3 march 2014 on setting up a scientific committee on occupational exposure limits for chemical agents and repealing decision 95 / 320 / ec . 55a council decision of 22 july 2003 on setting up an advisory committee on safety and health at work . 56 council directive 98 / 24 / ec of 7 april 1998 on the protection of the health and safety of workers from the risks related to chemical agents at work of directive 89 / 391 / eec ) .


### trichloroethylene meets the criteria for classification as carcinogenic in accordance with regulation no 1272 / 2008 and therefore is a carcinogen as defined in directive 2004 / 37 / ec . it is possible , on the basis of available information , including scientific and technical data , to set limit values for trichloroethylene in relation to a reference period of eight hours and to a shorter reference period . the committee identified for this carcinogen the possibility of significant uptake through the skin . it is therefore appropriate to establish long - and short - term exposure limit values for trichloroethylene in part a of annex iii and to set out a skin notation in part b of annex iii to directive 2004 / 37 / ec indicating the possibility of significant dermal uptake . in light of evolving scientific evidence , the limit values for this substance will be kept under particularly close review . ### trichloroethylene meets the criteria for classification as carcinogenic in accordance with regulation no 1272 / 2008 and therefore is a carcinogen as defined in directive 2004 / 37 / ec . it is possible , on the basis of available information , including scientific and technical data , to set limit values for trichloroethylene in relation to a reference period of eight hours and to a shorter reference period . scoel identified for this carcinogen the possibility of significant uptake through the skin . it is therefore appropriate to establish long - and short - term exposure limit values for trichloroethylene in part a of annex iii and to set out a skin notation in part b of annex iii to that directive indicating the possibility of significant dermal uptake . in light of evolving scientific evidence , the limit values for this substance will be kept under particularly close review .


### 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 on local , national and international levels , directed at promoting and safeguarding the values enshrined in article 2 of the treaty of the european union . the commission should 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 .


### 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 .


### 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 .


### 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 , an increase in funding 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 , including through adequate core funding and simplified cost options , financial rules and procedures , 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 .


### 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 . ### union citizens are not sufficiently aware of their rights deriving from citizenship of the union , including the right to vote in european and local elections or to receive consular protection from other member states’ embassies . citizens should be more aware of these rights 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 .


### 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 peopleʼs 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 primarily on people and entities which contribute to making our common values , rights and rich diversity alive and vibrant and to defending those rights and values and that diversity . the ultimate objective is to nurture and sustain equality and a rights - based , equal , inclusive and democratic society free of violence . that includes a vibrant , independent , and diverse civil society , encouraging peopleʼs 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’ 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 .


### equality between women and men is a fundamental value and an objective of the european union . discrimination against and unequal treatment of women violates their fundamental rights and prevents their full political , social and economic participation in society . in addition , the existence of structural and cultural barriers hinders the achievement of real gender equality . promoting gender equality in all activities of the union is therefore a core activity for the union and a driver for economic growth and should be supported by the programme . ### gender equality is a fundamental value and an objective of the european union . article 8 gives the union the task of eliminating inequalities and promoting equality between men and women through all its activities . yet overall progress on gender equality is very slow . . often silent and hidden intersectional discrimination against and unequal treatment of women and girls as well as various forms of violence against women , violates their fundamental rights and prevents their full political , social and economic participation in society . in addition , the existence of political , structural and cultural barriers hinders the achievement of real gender equality . promoting gender equality in all activities of the union , by supporting gender mainstreaming and non - discrimination objectives , and by actively tackling stereotypes and addressing also silent discrimination is therefore a core activity for the union and a driver for economic growth and should be supported by the programme .


### 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 .


### 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 .


### 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 .


### to promote equality and rights , ### to promote equality and fundamental human rights ,


### 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 rights and values as enshrined in the eu treaties , including by supporting civil society organisations , in order to sustain open , democratic , equal and inclusive societies . both this programme and the projects to be funded are bound by the principle of gender mainstreaming .


### 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 should increase their effectiveness and efficiency as well as 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 .


### eur [ 408 . 705 . 000 ] for the specific objectives referred to in article 2 and 2 ; ### eur [ 484 . 000 . 000 in constant prices ] for the specific objectives referred to in article 2 , 2 and 2 of which at least 20% would be reserved for the implementation of 2 and at least 50% would be reserved for the implementation of 2 ;


### remembrance activities and critical reflection on europe’s historical memory are necessary to make citizens aware of the common history , as the foundation for a common future , moral purpose and shared values . the relevance of historical , cultural and intercultural aspects should also be taken into account , as well as the links between remembrance and the creation of a european identity and sense of belonging together . ### remembrance activities and critical reflection on europe’s historical memory are important to make citizens aware of the common history and values , as the foundation for a common future , moral purpose and shared values . the relevance of historical , cultural and intercultural aspects should also be taken into account , as well as the links between remembrance and the creation of a european identity and sense of belonging together .


### remembrance activities and critical reflection on europe’s historical memory are necessary to make citizens aware of the common history , as the foundation for a common future , moral purpose and shared values . the relevance of historical , cultural and intercultural aspects should also be taken into account , as well as the links between remembrance and the creation of a european identity and sense of belonging together . ### remembrance activities and critical reflection on europe’s historical memory are important to make citizens aware of the common history and core values , as the foundation for a common future , moral purpose and shared values . the relevance of historical , cultural and intercultural aspects should also be taken into account , as well as the links between remembrance and the creation of a european identity based on diversity , solidarity and sense of belonging together .


### 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 principle of non - discrimination entails not only that similar situations should not be treated differently , but also that different situations should not be treated in the same way . 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 , including anti - religious 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 . authorities at union and national level have an obligation to prevent discrimination on grounds of belonging to a religious group or carrying out religious acts , whether affiliated to majority or minority religious denominations . furthermore , focus should not be placed on discrimination of religions , but on people being discriminated because of their religious affiliation or practices . an effective protection by the member states of the right to conscientious objection , both at the individual and institutional level , especially in the healthcare , pharmaceutical , educational and economical fields , as a fundamental right placed at the basis of democracy and the rule of law should also be supported . __________________ 10 com173 . 11 oj c 378 , 24 . 12 . 2013 , p . 1 .


### 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 primarily on people and entities , which contribute to make our common values , fundamental human 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 . article 17 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union sets out that the union shall maintain a dialogue with the churches and organisations mentioned in that article . churches and religious communities or associations are long - standing primary stakeholders in fostering protection and promotion of fundamental human rights and should be granted the same access as civil society organisations to the relevant funding opportunities .


### 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 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 , the size and capacity of relevant stakeholders and targeted beneficiaries , and the expected risk of non - compliance . this should include consideration of the use of lump sums , flat rates , unit costs and cascading grants , as well as co - funding criteria which take into account volunteer work and financing not linked to costs as referred to in article 125 of the financial regulation . co - funding requirements should be accepted in kind 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 .