### the commission shall assess the programme and its compliance with this regulation and with the fund - specific regulations , as well as its consistency with the partnership agreement . in its assessment , the commission shall , in particular , take into account relevant country - specific recommendations . ### the commission shall assess the programme and its compliance with this regulation and with the fund - specific regulations , as well as if applicable , its consistency with the partnership agreement . in its assessment , the commission shall , in particular , take into account relevant country - specific recommendations , challenges identified in national and regional development strategies and , where applicable , findings and recommendations of ex - ante evaluations .


### member states may request the transfer of up to 5 % of programme financial allocations from any of the funds to any other fund under shared management or to any instrument under direct or indirect management . ### member states may request the transfer of up to 5 % of&#160 ; financial allocations to any other fund or to any instrument under direct or indirect management .


### the erdf , the esf + and the emff may support community - led local development . ### the erdf , the esf + , the eafrd as referred to in regulation xx / xxx and the emff may support community - led local development .


### where programmes are grouped for the purpose of audits of operations pursuant to article 73 , the information required under paragraph may be grouped in a single report . ### where programmes are grouped for the purpose of audits of operations pursuant to article 73 , the information required under paragraph is grouped in a single report .


### the amount of additional funding for the outermost regions referred to in point in paragraph 1 allocated to the esf + shall be eur 376 928 934 . ### the amount of additional funding for the outermost regions referred to in point in paragraph 1 allocated to the esf + shall be eur 424 296 054 in 2018 prices .


### eur 500 000 000 of the resources for the investment for jobs and growth goal shall be allocated to the european urban initiative under direct or indirect management by the commission . ### eur 560 000 000 in 2018 prices of the resources for the investment for jobs and growth goal shall be allocated to the european urban initiative under direct or indirect management by the commission .


### eur 175 000 000 of the esf + resources for the investment for jobs and growth goal shall be allocated for transnational cooperation supporting innovative solutions under direct or indirect management . ### eur 196 000 000 in 2018 prices of the esf + resources for the investment for jobs and growth goal shall be allocated for transnational cooperation supporting innovative solutions under direct or indirect management .


### resources for the european territorial cooperation goal shall amount to 2 . 5 % of the global resources available for budgetary commitment from the funds for the period 2021 - 2027 . ### resources for the european territorial cooperation goal shall amount to 3 % of the global resources available for budgetary commitment from the funds for the period 2021 - 2027 .


### the principle of transparency , enshrined in article 15 tfeu which requires the institutions to work as openly as possible , implies , in the area of the implementation of the budget , that citizens are able to know where , and for what purpose , funds are spent by the union . such information fosters democratic debate , contributes to the participation of citizens in the union ' s decision - making process and reinforces institutional control and scrutiny over union expenditure . such objectives should be achieved by the publication , preferably using modern communication tools , of relevant information concerning all recipients of union funds which takes into account such all recipients ' legitimate interests of confidentiality and security and , as far as natural persons are concerned , their right to privacy and the protection of their personal data . institutions should therefore adopt a selective approach in the publication of information , in accordance with the principle of proportionality . decisions to publish should be based on relevant criteria in order to provide meaningful information . ### the principle of transparency , enshrined in article 15 tfeu which requires the institutions to work as openly as possible , implies , in the area of the implementation of the budget , that citizens are able to know where , and for what purpose , funds are spent by the union . such information fosters democratic debate , contributes to the participation of citizens in the union ' s decision - making process , reinforces institutional control and scrutiny over union expenditure and makes an exceptional contribution to boosting its credibility . such objectives should be achieved by the publication , preferably using modern communication tools , of relevant information concerning all recipients of union funds which takes into account such all recipients ' legitimate interests of confidentiality and security and , as far as natural persons are concerned , their right to privacy and the protection of their personal data . institutions should therefore adopt a selective approach in the publication of information , in accordance with the principle of proportionality . decisions to publish should be based on relevant criteria in order to provide meaningful information .


### the name and the locality of the recipient and the amount and the purpose of the funds should not be published if it risks endangering the integrity of the recipient as protected by the charter of fundamental rights of the european union or would harm the legitimate commercial interests of the recipient . ### the name and the locality of the recipient and the amount and the purpose of the funds should not be published if it risks endangering the integrity of the recipient as protected , in particular , by the charter of fundamental rights of the european union or would harm the legitimate commercial interests of the recipient .


### for the sake of legal security , the rules regarding the delays when a debit note is to be sent should be defined . ### in order to guarantee legal security and transparency , the rules regarding the delays when a debit note is to be sent should be defined .


### where the commission makes use of union trust funds , it shall attach to the draft budget a working document on the activities supported by union trust funds , on their implementation and performance . ### where the commission makes use of union trust funds , it shall attach to the draft budget a working document on the activities supported by union trust funds , on their implementation , performance and management cost .


### for emergency , post - emergency or thematic actions , the commission may create , after informing the european parliament and the council , trust funds under an agreement concluded with other donors . the constitutive act of each trust fund shall define the objectives of the trust fund . the commission decision establishing the trust fund shall include a description of the fund ' s objectives , the justification for its creation in accordance with paragraph 3 , an indication of its duration and the preliminary agreements with other donors . ### for emergency , post - emergency or thematic actions , the commission may exceptionally create , with the agreement of the european parliament and the council , trust funds under an agreement concluded with other donors . the constitutive act of each trust fund shall define the objectives of the trust fund . the commission proposal for establishing the trust fund shall include a description of the fund ' s objectives , the justification for its creation in accordance with paragraph 3 , an indication of its duration and the preliminary agreements with other donors .


### pursuant to [ reference to be updated as appropriate according to a new decision on octs : article 88 of council decision / / eu53 ] , persons and entities established in overseas countries and territories should be eligible for funding subject to the rules and objectives of the programme and possible arrangements applicable to the member state to which the relevant overseas country or territory is linked . _________________ 53 council decision / / eu . ### pursuant to [ reference to be updated as appropriate according to a new decision on octs : article 88 of council decision / / eu53 ] , persons and entities established in overseas countries and territories should be eligible for funding subject to the rules and objectives of the programme and possible arrangements applicable to the member state to which the relevant overseas country or territory is linked . the constraints relating to the participation of overseas countries or territories must be taken into account when implementing the programme , and their effective participation in the programme must be monitored and regularly evaluated . _________________ 53 council decision / / eu .


### pursuant to paragraph 22 and 23 of the inter - institutional agreement for better law - making of 13 april 201654 , there is a need to evaluate this programme on the basis of information collected through specific monitoring requirements , while avoiding overregulation and administrative burdens , in particular on member states . these requirements , where appropriate , can include measurable indicators , as a basis for evaluating the effects of the programme on the ground . __________________ 54 interinstitutional agreement between the european parliament , the council of the european union and the european commission on better law - making of 13 april 2016 ; oj l 123 , 12 . 5 . 2016 , p . 1–14 . ### pursuant to paragraph 22 and 23 of the inter - institutional agreement for better law - making of 13 april 201654 , there is a need to evaluate this programme on the basis of information collected through specific monitoring requirements , correlated to existing needs and complying with the regulation 2016 / 679 of the european parliament and of the council54a , while avoiding overregulation and administrative burdens for all beneficiaries , in particular on member states and smes . these requirements should , where appropriate , include measurable indicators , as a basis for evaluating the effects of the programme on the ground . __________________ 54 interinstitutional agreement between the european parliament , the council of the european union and the european commission on better law - making of 13 april 2016 ; oj l 123 , 12 . 5 . 2016 , p . 1–14 . 54a regulation 2016 / 679 of the european parliament and of the council of 27 april 2016 on the protection of natural persons with regard to the processing of personal data and on the free movement of such data , and repealing directive 95 / 46 / ec .


### the tallinn digital summit55 of september 2017 and the conclusions of the european council56 of 19 october 2017 indicated the need for europe to invest in digitising our economies and addressing the skills gap to maintain and enhance european competitiveness , our quality of life and social fabric . the european council concluded that the digital transformation offers immense opportunities for innovation , growth and jobs , will contribute to our global competitiveness , and enhance creative and cultural diversity . seizing these opportunities requires collectively tackling some of the challenges posed by the digital transformation and reviewing policies affected by the digital transformation . _________________ 55 https : / / www . eu2017 . ee / news / insights / conclusions - after - tallinn - digital - summit 56 https : / / www . consilium . europa . eu / media / 21620 / 19 - euco - final - conclusions - en . pdf ### the tallinn digital summit55 of september 2017 and the conclusions of the european council56 of 19 october 2017 indicated the need for europe to invest in digitising our economies and addressing the skills gap to maintain and enhance european competitiveness , our quality of life and social fabric . the european council concluded that the digital transformation offers immense opportunities for innovation , growth and jobs , will contribute to our global competitiveness , and enhance creative and cultural diversity . seizing these opportunities requires collectively tackling some of the challenges posed by the digital transformation and reviewing policies affected by the digital transformation . optimally , the financial envelope for this programme , a european level effort , shall be increased by significant private sector funds and contributions from the member states . _________________ 55 https : / / www . eu2017 . ee / news / insights / conclusions - after - tallinn - digital - summit 56 https : / / www . consilium . europa . eu / media / 21620 / 19 - euco - final - conclusions - en . pdf


### the tallinn digital summit55 of september 2017 and the conclusions of the european council56 of 19 october 2017 indicated the need for europe to invest in digitising our economies and addressing the skills gap to maintain and enhance european competitiveness , our quality of life and social fabric . the european council concluded that the digital transformation offers immense opportunities for innovation , growth and jobs , will contribute to our global competitiveness , and enhance creative and cultural diversity . seizing these opportunities requires collectively tackling some of the challenges posed by the digital transformation and reviewing policies affected by the digital transformation . __________________ 55 https : / / www . eu2017 . ee / news / insights / conclusions - after - tallinn - digital - summit 56 https : / / www . consilium . europa . eu / media / 21620 / 19 - euco - final - conclusions - en . pdf ### the tallinn digital summit55 of september 2017 and the conclusions of the european council56 of 19 october 2017 indicated the need for europe to invest in digitising our economies and addressing the skills gap to maintain and enhance european competitiveness , our quality of life and social fabric . the european council concluded that the digital transformation offers immense opportunities for innovation , growth and jobs , will contribute to our global competitiveness , media freedom and democratic dialogue , whilst enhancing not only cultural and creative industries but also cultural and linguistic diversity . seizing these opportunities requires collectively tackling some of the challenges posed by the digital transformation and digital monopolies and reviewing policies affected by the digital transformation while putting focus on investment in human capital and citizens needs in terms of upskilling and reskilling in order for them to fully benefit from the digital single market . __________________ 55 https : / / www . eu2017 . ee / news / insights / conclusions - after - tallinn - digital - summit 56 https : / / www . consilium . europa . eu / media / 21620 / 19 - euco - final - conclusions - en . pdf


### the tallinn digital summit55 of september 2017 and the conclusions of the european council56 of 19 october 2017 indicated the need for europe to invest in digitising our economies and addressing the skills gap to maintain and enhance european competitiveness , our quality of life and social fabric . the european council concluded that the digital transformation offers immense opportunities for innovation , growth and jobs , will contribute to our global competitiveness , and enhance creative and cultural diversity . seizing these opportunities requires collectively tackling some of the challenges posed by the digital transformation and reviewing policies affected by the digital transformation . _________________ 55 https : / / www . eu2017 . ee / news / insights / conclusions - after - tallinn - digital - summit 56 http : / / www . consilium . europa . eu / media / 21611 / 19 - euco - final - conclusions - ro . pdf ### the tallinn digital summit55 of september 2017 and the conclusions of the european council56 of 19 october 2017 indicated the need for europe to invest in consolidating eu digital capacity with the aim of digitising our economies and addressing the skills gap to maintain and enhance european competitiveness , our quality of life and social fabric . at tallinn , however , it became clear that a powerful digital economy can be achieved under the following main pillars : cybersecurity and artificial intelligence , accompanied by a world class infrastructure that includes high performance computing , digital skills , and the digital transformation of the public sector . the european council concluded that the digital transformation offers immense opportunities for innovation , growth and jobs , will contribute to our global competitiveness , and enhance creative and cultural diversity . seizing these opportunities requires a collective and interconnected approach to tackling some of the challenges posed by the digital transformation and reviewing policies affected by the digital transformation , as well as securing significant private sector funds and contributions from the member states . _________________ 55 https : / / www . eu2017 . ee / news / insights / conclusions - after - tallinn - digital - summit 56 http : / / www . consilium . europa . eu / media / 21611 / 19 - euco - final - conclusions - ro . pdf


### the tallinn digital summit55 of september 2017 and the conclusions of the european council56 of 19 october 2017 indicated the need for europe to invest in digitising our economies and addressing the skills gap to maintain and enhance european competitiveness , our quality of life and social fabric . the european council concluded that the digital transformation offers immense opportunities for innovation , growth and jobs , will contribute to our global competitiveness , and enhance creative and cultural diversity . seizing these opportunities requires collectively tackling some of the challenges posed by the digital transformation and reviewing policies affected by the digital transformation . __________________ 55 https : / / www . eu2017 . ee / news / insights / conclusions - after - tallinn - digital - summit 56 https : / / www . consilium . europa . eu / media / 21620 / 19 - euco - final - conclusions - en . pdf ### the tallinn digital summit55 of september 2017 and the conclusions of the european council56 of 19 october 2017 indicated the need for europe to invest in efficient digitalisation of our economies and addressing the skills gap to maintain and enhance european competitiveness and innovation , our quality of life and social fabric . the european council concluded that the digital transformation offers immense opportunities for innovation , growth and jobs , will contribute to our global competitiveness , and enhance creative and cultural diversity . seizing these opportunities requires collectively tackling the challenges posed by the digital transformation in several ways , including by ensuring that the essential building blocks on which new technologies rely are put in place , by creating effective and easily enforceable legal rules , by reviewing policies affected by the digital transformation , and by creating an innovation - friendly environment in which the interests of users are fully safeguarded . __________________ 55 https : / / www . eu2017 . ee / news / insights / conclusions - after - tallinn - digital - summit 56 https : / / www . consilium . europa . eu / media / 21620 / 19 - euco - final - conclusions - en . pdf


### the european council concluded in particular that the union should urgently address emerging trends : this includes issues such as artificial intelligence and distributed ledgers technologies , while at the same time ensuring a high level of data protection , digital rights and ethical standards . the european council invited the commission to put forward a european approach to artificial intelligence by early 2018 and called on the commission to put forward the necessary initiatives for strengthening the framework conditions with a view to enable the eu to explore new markets through risk - based radical innovations and to reaffirm the leading role of its industry . ### the european council concluded in particular that the union should urgently address emerging trends : this includes issues such as artificial intelligence and distributed ledger technologies , while at the same time ensuring a high level of protection of intellectual property , data and digital rights , as well as liability - related ethical and legal issues . it is of crucial importance to ensure that the eu legal framework responds adequately to those challenges . the european council invited the commission to put forward a european approach to artificial intelligence by early 2018 and called on the commission to put forward the necessary initiatives for strengthening the framework conditions with a view to enable the eu to explore new markets through risk - based radical innovations and to reaffirm the leading role of its industry .


### the general objective of the programme should be to support the digital transformation of industry and to foster better exploitation of the industrial potential of policies of innovation , research and technological development , for the benefit of businesses and citizens all over the union . the programme should be structured into five specific objectives reflecting key policy areas , namely : high - performance computing , cybersecurity , artificial intelligence , advanced digital skills , and deployment , best use of digital capacities and interoperability . for all these areas , the programme should also aim at better aligning union , member states and regional policies , and pooling of private and industrial resources in order to increase investment and develop stronger synergies . ### the general objective of the programme should be to support the digital transformation of industry , in society and to foster better exploitation of the potential of policies of innovation and research policies , as well as the full use of r&d results , technological development , european and international standards in industry , in cultural , educational , academic / scientific , audiovisual and media institutions and in public administration , for the benefit of citizens and businesses all over the union . the programme should be structured into five specific objectives reflecting key policy areas , namely : high - performance computing , cybersecurity , artificial intelligence , advanced digital skills , and deployment , best use of digital capacities and interoperability . for all these areas , the programme should also aim at better aligning union , member states and regional policies , and pooling of private and industrial resources in order to increase investment and develop stronger synergies .


### the general objective of the programme should be to support the digital transformation of industry and to foster better exploitation of the industrial potential of policies of innovation , research and technological development , for the benefit of businesses and citizens all over the union . the programme should be structured into five specific objectives reflecting key policy areas , namely : high - performance computing , cybersecurity , artificial intelligence , advanced digital skills , and deployment , best use of digital capacities and interoperability . for all these areas , the programme should also aim at better aligning union , member states and regional policies , and pooling of private and industrial resources in order to increase investment and develop stronger synergies . ### the general objective of the programme should be to promote , consolidate and support the digital transformation of industry and to foster better exploitation of the industrial potential of policies of innovation , research and technological development , for the benefit of businesses , public administrations and all citizens all over the union . the programme should support a fair digital transition and uphold the common values of the european union , including the right to education , the protection of workers’ rights , guarantee fair competition , promote equality and ensure that digitation contributes to rising social and labour standards , and promote prosperity for all european citizens , democracy and security . the programme should be structured into five specific objectives reflecting key policy areas , namely : high - performance computing , cybersecurity , artificial intelligence , advanced digital skills , and deployment , best use of digital capacities and interoperability . for all these areas , the programme should also aim at better aligning union , member states and regional policies , and pooling of private and industrial resources in order to increase investment and develop stronger synergies , thereby creating a prosperous data - based inclusive economy promoting innovative projects and ensuring the creation of real added value .


### a central role in the implementation of the programme should be attributed to digital innovation hubs , which should stimulate the broad adoption of advanced digital technologies by industry , by public organisations and academia . a network of digital innovation hubs should ensure the widest geographical coverage across europe59 . a first set of digital innovation hubs will be selected based on member states’ proposals and then the network will be enlarged through an open and competitive process . the digital innovation hubs will serve as access points to latest digital capacities including high performance computing , artificial intelligence , cybersecurity , as well as other existing innovative technologies such as key enabling technologies , available also in fablabs or citylabs . they shall act as single - entry points in accessing tested and validated technologies and promote open innovation . they will also provide support in the area of advanced digital skills . the network of digital innovation hubs should also contribute to the participation of the outermost regions in the digital single market . __________________ 59 as indicated in the communication on digitising european industry 180 final ) ### a central role in the implementation of the programme should be attributed to digital innovation hubs , which should stimulate the broad adoption of advanced digital technologies by industry , smes , local start - ups by public organisations and academia taking into account the specific sectorial needs at regional level . a network of digital innovation hubs should ensure the widest geographical coverage across europe59 while taking into consideration remote areas and less developed regions . a first set of digital innovation hubs will be selected based on member states’ proposals taking into account criteria such as geographical situation , demographic trends , regional skills forecasts needs and then the network will be enlarged through an open , transparent and competitive process . the digital innovation hubs will serve as access points to latest digital capacities including high performance computing , artificial intelligence , cybersecurity , as well as other existing innovative technologies such as key enabling technologies , available also in fablabs or citylabs . they shall act as single - entry points in accessing tested and validated technologies and promote open innovation . they will also provide support in the area of advanced digital skills . the network of digital innovation hubs should also contribute to the participation of the outermost regions in the digital single market . __________________ 59 as indicated in the communication on digitising european industry 180 final )


### a central role in the implementation of the programme should be attributed to digital innovation hubs , which should stimulate the broad adoption of advanced digital technologies by industry , by public organisations and academia . a network of digital innovation hubs should ensure the widest geographical coverage across europe59 . a first set of digital innovation hubs will be selected based on member states’ proposals and then the network will be enlarged through an open and competitive process . the digital innovation hubs will serve as access points to latest digital capacities including high performance computing , artificial intelligence , cybersecurity , as well as other existing innovative technologies such as key enabling technologies , available also in fablabs or citylabs . they shall act as single - entry points in accessing tested and validated technologies and promote open innovation . they will also provide support in the area of advanced digital skills . the network of digital innovation hubs should also contribute to the participation of the outermost regions in the digital single market . _________________ 59 as indicated in the communication on digitising european industry 180 final ) ### a central role in the implementation of the programme should be attributed to digital innovation hubs , which should stimulate the broad adoption of advanced digital technologies by industry , by public organisations and academia . a network of digital innovation hubs should ensure the widest geographical coverage across europe59 . a first set of digital innovation hubs will be selected based on member states’ proposals and then the network will be enlarged through an open and competitive process . the digital innovation hubs will serve as access points to latest digital capacities including high performance computing , artificial intelligence , cybersecurity , as well as other existing innovative technologies such as key enabling technologies , available also in fablabs or citylabs . they shall act as single - entry points in accessing tested and validated technologies and promote open innovation . they will also provide support in the area of advanced digital skills . the network of digital innovation hubs should also contribute to the participation of the outermost regions in the digital single market and support the digital transformation in the overseas countries and territories . _________________ 59 as indicated in the communication on digitising european industry 180 final )


### a central role in the implementation of the programme should be attributed to digital innovation hubs , which should stimulate the broad adoption of advanced digital technologies by industry , by public organisations and academia . a network of digital innovation hubs should ensure the widest geographical coverage across europe59 . a first set of digital innovation hubs will be selected based on member states’ proposals and then the network will be enlarged through an open and competitive process . the digital innovation hubs will serve as access points to latest digital capacities including high performance computing , artificial intelligence , cybersecurity , as well as other existing innovative technologies such as key enabling technologies , available also in fablabs or citylabs . they shall act as single - entry points in accessing tested and validated technologies and promote open innovation . they will also provide support in the area of advanced digital skills . the network of digital innovation hubs should also contribute to the participation of the outermost regions in the digital single market . __________________ 59 as indicated in the communication on digitising european industry 180 final ) ### a central role in the implementation of the programme should be attributed to digital innovation hubs , which should stimulate the broad adoption of advanced digital technologies by industry within all sectors and by companies of all sizes and by the public sector and academia , thereby addressing the strong digitisation discrepancies . a network of digital innovation hubs should ensure the widest geographical coverage across europe59 . a first set of digital innovation hubs should be selected by the commission based on member states’ proposals and then the network will be enlarged through an open and competitive process . the digital innovation hubs should serve as access points to latest digital capacities including high performance computing , artificial intelligence , cybersecurity , as well as other existing innovative technologies such as key enabling technologies available also in fablabs or citylabs . they should act as single - entry points in accessing tested and validated technologies and promote open innovation . they should also provide support in the area of advanced digital skills . the network of digital innovation hubs should also facilitate the participation of the outermost regions in the digital single market . __________________ 59 as indicated in the communication on digitising european industry 180 final )


### the programme should be implemented through projects reinforcing essential digital capacities and their wide use . this should involve co - investments with member states and , when needed , the private sector . this should notably require reaching a critical mass in procurement to obtain better value for money and guarantee that suppliers in europe stay at the forefront of technology advancements . ### the programme should be implemented through projects reinforcing essential digital capacities and their wide use . to this end the programme should ensure an eu budget of at least 9 . 2 billion euro complemented with co - investments from member states and , when needed , the private sector . this should notably require reaching a critical mass in procurement to obtain better value for money and guarantee that suppliers in europe stay at the forefront of technology advancements .


### the programme should be implemented through projects reinforcing essential digital capacities and their wide use . this should involve co - investments with member states and , when needed , the private sector . this should notably require reaching a critical mass in procurement to obtain better value for money and guarantee that suppliers in europe stay at the forefront of technology advancements . ### the programme should be implemented through projects reinforcing essential digital capacities and their wide use . this should involve co - investments with member states and , when needed , the private sector . this should notably require reaching a critical mass in procurement to obtain better value for money and guarantee that suppliers in europe stay at the forefront of technology advancements . the programme should also aim at protecting the interests of the citizens of the union .


### the programme’s actions should be used to address market failures or sub - optimal investment situations , in a proportionate manner , without duplicating or crowding out private financing and have a clear european added value . ### the programme’s actions should be used to address market failures or sub - optimal investment situations , in a proportionate manner , without duplicating or crowding out private financing and have a clear european added value . multilateral coordinated action should capitalise on synergies by linking funding with framework conditions , safeguard interoperability , and avoid a major geographical digital divide , resulting in strategic advantages for european businesses and public services for citizens , enabling them to achieve breakthroughs more effectively in solving societal challenges , thereby helping to achieve the general objective of improving quality of life in every sector and throughout the union .


### the programme ' s actions should be used to address market failures or sub - optimal investment situations , in a proportionate manner , without duplicating or crowding out private financing and have a clear european added value . ### the programme ' s actions should be used to address market failures or sub - optimal investment situations , in a proportionate manner , without duplicating private financing and have clear added value for the union and its citizens .


### developing capacity related to artificial intelligence is a crucial driver for the digital transformation of industry and also of the public sector . ever more autonomous robots are used in factories , deep sea application , homes , cities and hospitals . commercial artificial intelligence platforms have moved from testing to real applications in health and environment ; all major car manufacturers are developing self - driving cars , and machine learning techniques are at the heart of all main web platforms and big data applications . ### developing capacity related to artificial intelligence is a crucial driver for the digital transformation of industry and also of the public sector . ever more autonomous robots are used in factories , the logistics chain , deep sea application , homes , cities and hospitals . commercial artificial intelligence platforms have moved from testing to real applications in health and environment ; all major car manufacturers and industries in the automotive sector are developing self - driving cars , and machine learning techniques are at the heart of all main web platforms and big data applications .


### the availability of large - scale data sets and testing and experimentation facilities are of major importance for the development of artificial intelligence . ### the availability of large - scale data sets and testing and experimentation facilities are of major importance for the development of artificial intelligence , including language technologies .


### the availability of large - scale data sets and testing and experimentation facilities are of major importance for the development of artificial intelligence . ### the availability of large - scale data sets and testing and experimentation facilities are of major importance for the development of artificial intelligence . at the same time , these large - scale data sets need to be secure and comply with regulation no 2016 / 679 .


### in its resolution of 1 june 2017 on digitising european industry64 the european parliament highlighted the importance of a common european cybersecurity approach , recognising the need to raise awareness and considered cyber - resilience as a crucial responsibility for business leaders and national and european industrial security policymakers . __________________ 64 document ref . a8 - 0183 / 2017 , available at : http : / / www . europarl . europa . eu / sides / getdoc . do ? type=ta&language=en&reference=p8 - ta - 2017 - 0240 ### in its resolution of 1 june 2017 on digitising european industry64 the european parliament highlighted the importance of a common european cybersecurity approach , recognising the need to raise awareness and considered cyber - resilience as a crucial responsibility for business leaders and national and european industrial security policymakers . furthermore , in its resolution of 3 october 2017 on the fight against cybercrime the european parliament underlined the fact that cross - border cybercrime is increasing rapidly which makes it necessary to urgently step up the response at union and member state level , and furthermore stressed that , next to the necessary legal measures , the fight against cybercrime is first and foremost about technological challenges , in particular safeguarding and hardening critical infrastructures and other networked devices . __________________ 64 document ref . a8 - 0183 / 2017 , available at : http : / / www . europarl . europa . eu / sides / getdoc . do ? type=ta&language=en&reference=p8 - ta - 2017 - 0240


### cybersecurity is a challenge for the whole union that cannot continue to be addressed only with fragmented national initiatives . europe ' s cybersecurity capacity should be reinforced to endow europe with the necessary capacities to protect its citizens and businesses from cyber threats . in addition consumers should be protected when using connected products that can be hacked and compromise their safety . this should be achieved together with member states and private sector by developing , and ensuring coordination between , projects reinforcing europe ' s capacities in cybersecurity and ensuring the wide deployment of latest cybersecurity solutions across the economy , as well as by aggregating the competences in this field to ensure critical mass and excellence . ### cybersecurity is a challenge for the whole union that cannot continue to be addressed only with fragmented national initiatives . europe ' s cybersecurity capacity should be reinforced to endow europe with the necessary technological capacities and legislation to protect its citizens , businesses , public institutions and democracy from cyber threats and attacks . in addition consumers should be protected when using connected products that can be hacked and compromise their safety . this should be achieved together with member states and private sector by developing , and ensuring coordination between , projects reinforcing europe ' s capacities in cybersecurity and ensuring the wide deployment of latest cybersecurity solutions across the economy , including by promoting public - private cooperation and by means of awareness raising measures , as well as by aggregating the competences in this field to ensure critical mass and excellence .


### in september 2017 , the commission put forward a package of initiatives65 setting out a comprehensive union approach to cybersecurity , with the aim of reinforcing europe’s capacities to deal with cyber - attacks and threats and to strengthen technology and industrial capacity in this field . _________________ 65 https : / / ec . europa . eu / digital - single - market / en / policies / cybersecurity ### in september 2017 , the commission put forward a package of initiatives65 setting out a comprehensive union approach to cybersecurity , with the aim of reinforcing europe’s capacities to deal with cyber - attacks , to increase cyber resilience and threats and to strengthen technology and industrial capacity in this field . _________________ 65 https : / / ec . europa . eu / digital - single - market / en / policies / cybersecurity


### trust is a prerequisite for the digital single market to function . cybersecurity technologies such as digital identities , cryptography or intrusion detection , and their application in areas such as finance , industry 4 . 0 , energy , transportation , healthcare , or e - government are essential to safeguard the security and trust of online activity and transactions by both citizens , public administrations , and companies . ### trust is a prerequisite for the digital single market to function . cybersecurity technologies such as digital identities , cryptography or intrusion detection , and their application in areas such as finance , industry 4 . 0 , logistics , energy , transportation , tourism , healthcare , or e - government are essential to safeguard the security and trust of online activity and transactions by both citizens , public administrations , and companies .


### the european council in its conclusions of 19 october 2017 stressed that to successfully build a digital europe , the union needs in particular labour markets , training and education systems fit for the digital age and that there is a need to invest in digital skills , to empower and enable all europeans ; ### the european council in its conclusions of 19 october 2017 stressed that to successfully build a digital europe , the union needs in particular labour markets , life - long learning and innovation - driven training and education systems fit for the potential and challenges of the digital age and that it is crucial to invest in digital skills in order to empower and enable all european citizens and businesses ;


### the advanced digital technologies supported by this programme , such as high performance computing , cybersecurity and artificial intelligence are now sufficiently mature to move beyond the research arena and be deployed , implemented and scaled - up at union level . just as the deployment of these technologies require a union response so does the skills dimension . training opportunities in advanced digital skills need to be scaled up , increased and made accessible throughout the eu . failing this could impede the smooth deployment of advanced digital technologies and hamper the overall competitiveness of union ' s economy . the actions supported by this programme are complementary to those supported by the esf , erdf and horizon europe programmes . ### the advanced digital technologies supported by this programme , such as high performance computing , cybersecurity , cloud computing , data protection and artificial intelligence are now sufficiently mature to move beyond the research arena and be deployed , implemented and scaled - up at union level . just as the deployment of these technologies require a union response so does the skills dimension . training opportunities in advanced digital skills need to be scaled up , qualitatively improved , increased and made accessible throughout the eu . failing this could impede the smooth deployment of advanced digital technologies , increase the shortage of a qualified workforce in europe and hamper the overall competitiveness of union’s economy . the actions supported by this programme are complementary to those supported by the esf , erdf and horizon europe programmes .


### the advanced digital technologies supported by this programme , such as high performance computing , cybersecurity and artificial intelligence are now sufficiently mature to move beyond the research arena and be deployed , implemented and scaled - up at union level . just as the deployment of these technologies require a union response so does the skills dimension . training opportunities in advanced digital skills need to be scaled up , increased and made accessible throughout the eu . failing this could impede the smooth deployment of advanced digital technologies and hamper the overall competitiveness of union ' s economy . the actions supported by this programme are complementary to those supported by the esf , erdf and horizon europe programmes . ### the advanced digital technologies supported by this programme , such as high performance computing , cybersecurity and artificial intelligence , including language technologies are now sufficiently mature to move beyond the research arena and be deployed , implemented and scaled - up at union level . just as the deployment of these technologies require a union response so does the skills dimension . training opportunities in advanced digital skills need to be scaled up , increased and made accessible throughout the eu . failing this could impede the smooth deployment of advanced digital technologies and hamper the overall competitiveness of union ' s economy . the actions supported by this programme are complementary to those supported by the esf , erdf and horizon europe programmes .


### the advanced digital technologies supported by this programme , such as high performance computing , cybersecurity and artificial intelligence are now sufficiently mature to move beyond the research arena and be deployed , implemented and scaled - up at union level . just as the deployment of these technologies require a union response so does the skills dimension . training opportunities in advanced digital skills need to be scaled up , increased and made accessible throughout the eu . failing this could impede the smooth deployment of advanced digital technologies and hamper the overall competitiveness of union ' s economy . the actions supported by this programme are complementary to those supported by the esf , erdf and horizon europe programmes . ### the advanced digital technologies supported by this programme , such as high performance computing , cybersecurity and artificial intelligence are now sufficiently mature to move beyond the research arena and be deployed , implemented and scaled - up at union level , however should continue to be supported also at member states level . just as the deployment of these technologies requires a union response so does the skills dimension . bearing in mind the impact new technologies may have on the job market , training opportunities in advanced digital skills need to be scaled up , increased and made accessible throughout the eu , in particular for employees in the sectors that will be most affected by digital innovations . failing this could impede the smooth deployment of advanced digital technologies and hamper the overall competitiveness of union ' s economy . the actions supported by this programme are complementary to those supported by the esf , erdf and horizon europe programmes .


### modernising public administrations and services through digital means is crucial to reducing administrative burden on industry and on citizens in general by making their interactions with public authorities faster , more convenient and less costly , as well as by increasing the efficiency and the quality of the services provided to citizens and businesses . since a number of services of public interest already have a union dimension , the support to their implementation and deployment at union level should ensure that citizens and businesses will benefit from the access to high quality digital services across europe . ### modernising public administrations and services through digital means is crucial to reducing administrative burden on industry and on citizens in general by making their interactions with public authorities faster , more convenient and less costly , as well as by increasing the efficiency , transparency and the quality of the services provided to citizens and businesses . since a number of services of public interest already have a union dimension , the support to their implementation and deployment at union level should ensure that citizens and businesses will benefit from the access to high quality digital services across europe .


### modernising public administrations and services through digital means is crucial to reducing administrative burden on industry and on citizens in general by making their interactions with public authorities faster , more convenient and less costly , as well as by increasing the efficiency and the quality of the services provided to citizens and businesses . since a number of services of public interest already have a union dimension , the support to their implementation and deployment at union level should ensure that citizens and businesses will benefit from the access to high quality digital services across europe . ### modernising public administrations and services through digital means is crucial to reducing administrative burden on industry and on citizens in general by making their interactions with public authorities faster , more convenient and less costly , as well as by increasing the efficiency and the quality of the services provided to citizens and businesses . since a number of services of public interest already have a union dimension , the support to their implementation and deployment at union level should ensure that citizens and businesses will benefit from the access to high quality multilingual digital services across europe .


### modernising public administrations and services through digital means is crucial to reducing administrative burden on industry and on citizens in general by making their interactions with public authorities faster , more convenient and less costly , as well as by increasing the efficiency and the quality of the services provided to citizens and businesses . since a number of services of public interest already have a union dimension , the support to their implementation and deployment at union level should ensure that citizens and businesses will benefit from the access to high quality digital services across europe . ### modernising public administrations and services through digital means is crucial to reducing administrative burden on citizens and industry by making their interactions with public authorities faster , more convenient and less costly , as well as by increasing the efficiency and the quality of the services provided to citizens and businesses while at the same time increasing the efficiency of public spending . since a number of services of public interest already have a union dimension , the support to their implementation and deployment at union level should ensure that citizens and businesses may benefit from the access to high quality digital services across europe . it is also important that these services be accessible to people with disabilities .


### the digital transformation of the areas of public interest such as healthcare68 , mobility , justice , earth / environmental monitoring , education and culture requires the continuation and expansion of digital service infrastructures , which make secure cross - border exchange of data possible and foster national development . their coordination under this regulation best achieves the potential for exploiting synergies . _________________ 68 http : / / ec . europa . eu / newsroom / dae / document . cfm ? doc_id=51628 ### the digital transformation of the areas of public interest such as healthcare68 , mobility , justice , earth / environmental monitoring , education and culture requires the continuation and expansion of digital service infrastructures , which make secure cross - border and cross - language exchange of data and information possible and foster national development . their coordination under this regulation best achieves the potential for exploiting synergies . _________________ 68 http : / / ec . europa . eu / newsroom / dae / document . cfm ? doc_id=51628


### the digital transformation of the areas of public interest such as healthcare68 , mobility , justice , earth / environmental monitoring , education and culture requires the continuation and expansion of digital service infrastructures , which make secure cross - border exchange of data possible and foster national development . their coordination under this regulation best achieves the potential for exploiting synergies . _________________ 68 http : / / ec . europa . eu / newsroom / dae / document . cfm ? doc_id=51628 ### the digital transformation of the areas of public interest such as healthcare68 , mobility , justice , earth / environmental monitoring , education and culture requires the continuation , upgrading and expansion of digital service infrastructures , which make secure cross - border exchange of data possible and foster national development . their coordination under this regulation best achieves the potential for exploiting synergies and ensuring complementarity . _________________ 68 http : / / ec . europa . eu / newsroom / dae / document . cfm ? doc_id=51628


### the modernisation of european public administrations is one of the key priorities for successful implementation of the digital single market strategy . the mid - term evaluation of the strategy highlighted the need to strengthen the transformation of public administrations and to ensure citizens have easy , trusted , and seamless access to public services . ### the modernisation of european public administrations is one of the key priorities for successful implementation of the digital single market strategy . the mid - term evaluation of the strategy highlighted the need to strengthen the transformation of public administrations and to ensure citizens have easy , trusted , and seamless access to public services without being charged disproportionate amounts .


### interoperability of european public services concerns all levels of administration : union , national , regional and local . besides removing barriers to a functioning single market , interoperability facilitates successful implementation of policies and offers great potential to avoid cross - border electronic barriers , further securing the emergence of new , or the consolidation of developing , common public services at union level . in order to eliminate fragmentation of european services , to support fundamental freedoms and operational mutual recognition in the eu , a holistic cross - sector and cross - border approach to interoperability should be promoted in the manner that is the most effective , and the most responsive to end - users . this implies that interoperability is to be understood in a broad sense , spanning from technical to legal layers and encompassing policy elements in the field . accordingly , the span of activities would go beyond the usual lifecycle of solutions to include all the interventions elements that would support the necessary framework conditions for sustained interoperability at large . ### interoperability of european public services concerns all levels of administration : union , national , regional and local . besides removing barriers to a functioning single market , interoperability facilitates cross - border co - operation , alignment of common standards , successful implementation of policies and offers great potential to avoid cross - border electronic barriers , to cut red tape , further securing the emergence of new , or the consolidation of developing , common public services at union level . in order to eliminate fragmentation of european services , to support fundamental freedoms and operational mutual recognition in the eu , a holistic cross - sector and cross - border approach to interoperability should be promoted in the manner that is the most effective , and the most responsive to end - users . this implies that interoperability is to be understood in a broad sense , spanning from technical to legal layers and encompassing policy elements in the field . accordingly , the span of activities would go beyond the usual lifecycle of solutions to include all the interventions elements that would support the necessary framework conditions for sustained interoperability at large .


### interoperability of european public services concerns all levels of administration : union , national , regional and local . besides removing barriers to a functioning single market , interoperability facilitates successful implementation of policies and offers great potential to avoid cross - border electronic barriers , further securing the emergence of new , or the consolidation of developing , common public services at union level . in order to eliminate fragmentation of european services , to support fundamental freedoms and operational mutual recognition in the eu , a holistic cross - sector and cross - border approach to interoperability should be promoted in the manner that is the most effective , and the most responsive to end - users . this implies that interoperability is to be understood in a broad sense , spanning from technical to legal layers and encompassing policy elements in the field . accordingly , the span of activities would go beyond the usual lifecycle of solutions to include all the interventions elements that would support the necessary framework conditions for sustained interoperability at large . ### interoperability of european public services concerns all levels of administration : union , national , regional and local . besides removing barriers to a functioning single market , interoperability facilitates successful implementation of policies and offers great potential to avoid cross - border electronic and language barriers , further securing the emergence of new , or the consolidation of developing , common public services at union level . in order to eliminate fragmentation of european services , to support fundamental freedoms and operational mutual recognition in the eu , a holistic cross - sector and cross - border approach to interoperability should be promoted in the manner that is the most effective , and the most responsive to end - users . this implies that interoperability is to be understood in a broad sense , spanning from technical to legal layers and encompassing policy elements in the field . accordingly , the span of activities would go beyond the usual lifecycle of solutions to include all the interventions elements that would support the necessary framework conditions for sustained interoperability at large .


### interoperability of european public services concerns all levels of administration : union , national , regional and local . besides removing barriers to a functioning single market , interoperability facilitates successful implementation of policies and offers great potential to avoid cross - border electronic barriers , further securing the emergence of new , or the consolidation of developing , common public services at union level . in order to eliminate fragmentation of european services , to support fundamental freedoms and operational mutual recognition in the eu , a holistic cross - sector and cross - border approach to interoperability should be promoted in the manner that is the most effective , and the most responsive to end - users . this implies that interoperability is to be understood in a broad sense , spanning from technical to legal layers and encompassing policy elements in the field . accordingly , the span of activities would go beyond the usual lifecycle of solutions to include all the interventions elements that would support the necessary framework conditions for sustained interoperability at large . ### interoperability of european public services concerns all levels of administration : union , national , regional and local . besides removing barriers to a functioning single market , interoperability facilitates successful implementation of policies and offers great potential to avoid cross - border electronic barriers , further securing the emergence of new , or the consolidation of developing , common public services at union level as well as preventing unnecessary double - storage . in order to eliminate fragmentation of european services , to support fundamental freedoms and operational mutual recognition in the eu , a holistic cross - sector and cross - border approach to interoperability should be promoted in the manner that is the most effective , the most responsive to end - users and that ensures a high level of data protection . this implies that interoperability is to be understood in a broad sense , spanning from technical to legal layers and encompassing policy elements in the field . accordingly , the span of activities would go beyond the usual lifecycle of solutions to include all the interventions elements that would support the necessary framework conditions for sustained interoperability at large .


### interoperability of european public services concerns all levels of administration : union , national , regional and local . besides removing barriers to a functioning single market , interoperability facilitates successful implementation of policies and offers great potential to avoid cross - border electronic barriers , further securing the emergence of new , or the consolidation of developing , common public services at union level . in order to eliminate fragmentation of european services , to support fundamental freedoms and operational mutual recognition in the eu , a holistic cross - sector and cross - border approach to interoperability should be promoted in the manner that is the most effective , and the most responsive to end - users . this implies that interoperability is to be understood in a broad sense , spanning from technical to legal layers and encompassing policy elements in the field . accordingly , the span of activities would go beyond the usual lifecycle of solutions to include all the interventions elements that would support the necessary framework conditions for sustained interoperability at large . ### interoperability of european public services concerns all levels of administration : union , national , regional and local . besides removing barriers to a functioning single market , interoperability facilitates successful implementation of policies and offers great potential to avoid cross - border electronic barriers , further securing the emergence of new , or the consolidation of developing , common public services at union level . in order to eliminate fragmentation of european services , to support fundamental freedoms and operational mutual recognition in the eu , a holistic , technology - neutral cross - sector and cross - border approach to interoperability should be promoted in the manner that is the most effective , and the most responsive to end - users . this implies that interoperability is to be understood in a broad sense , spanning from technical to legal layers and encompassing policy elements in the field . accordingly , the span of activities would go beyond the usual lifecycle of solutions to include all the interventions elements that would support the necessary framework conditions for sustained interoperability at large .


### in april 2016 the commission adopted the digitising european industry initiative to ensure that ' any industry in europe , big or small , wherever situated and in any sector can fully benefit from digital innovations ' . 71 __________________ 71 null ### in april 2016 the commission adopted the digitising european industry initiative to ensure that ' any industry in europe , big or small , wherever situated and in any sector can fully benefit from digital innovations ' . this is of particular relevance to small and medium enterprises in the cultural and creative sectors .


### reaching the target objectives may require leveraging the potential of complementary technologies in the networking and computing domains , as stated in the communication ' digitising european industry ' 73 that recognises ' availability of world class networking and cloud infrastructure ' as an essential ingredient of industry digitisation . __________________ 73 com 180 final : digitising european industry – reaping the full benefits of a digital single market . ### reaching the target objectives may require leveraging the potential of complementary technologies in the networking and computing domains , as stated in the communication ' digitising european industry ' 73 that recognises ' availability of world class networking and cloud infrastructure ' as an essential component of industry digitisation . __________________ 73 com 180 final : digitising european industry – reaping the full benefits of a digital single market .


### the general data protection regulation , applicable from may 2018 onwards , by providing for a single set of rules directly applicable in the member states legal orders , will guarantee the free flow of personal data between eu member states and reinforce trust and security of the individuals , two indispensable elements for a real digital single market . the actions undertaken under this programme , when they involve the processing of personal data , should therefore support the application of the gdpr , for instance in the field of artificial intelligence and blockchain technology . ### regulation 2016 / 679 by providing for a single set of rules directly applicable in the member states legal orders guarantees the free flow of personal data between eu member states and reinforces trust and security of the individuals , two indispensable elements for a real digital single market . all actions undertaken under this programme , when they involve the processing of personal data , should therefore be in full compliance with that regulation . they should especially support the development of digital technologies that comply with the ‘ data protection by design’ obligations which are binding pursuant to that regulation to the extent that the processing involves electronic communications data , due respect is to be paid to directive 2002 / 58 / ec of the european parliament and of the council . 1a _________________ 1a directive 2002 / 58 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 12 july 2002 concerning the processing of personal data and the protection of privacy in the electronic communications sector .


### bodies implementing this programme should comply with the provisions applicable to the union institutions , and with national legislation regarding the handling of information , in particular sensitive non - classified information and eu classified information . ### to the extent that bodies implementing this programme handle sensitive non - classified information or union classified information , they should respect the relevant provisions laid down in union acts or national legislation regarding the handling of information , as applicable .


### reflecting the importance of tackling climate change in line with the union’s commitments to implement the paris agreement and the united nations sustainable development goals , this programme will contribute to mainstream climate actions and lead to the achievement of an overall target of 25% of the eu budget expenditures supporting climate objectives74 . relevant actions will be identified during the programme ' s preparation and implementation , and reassessed in the context of the relevant evaluations and review processes . _________________ 74 com 321 final , page 1 ### reflecting the importance of tackling climate change in line with the union’s obligations to implement the paris agreement and the united nations sustainable development goals , this programme will contribute to mainstream climate actions and help leading to the achievement of an overall target of 25% of the eu budget expenditures supporting climate objectives74 . relevant actions should be identified during the programme ' s preparation and implementation , and reassessed in the context of the relevant evaluations and review processes in order to ensure full compliance with these obligations . _________________ 74 com 321 final , page 1


### reflecting the importance of tackling climate change in line with the union’s commitments to implement the paris agreement and the united nations sustainable development goals , this programme will contribute to mainstream climate actions and lead to the achievement of an overall target of 25% of the eu budget expenditures supporting climate objectives74 . relevant actions will be identified during the programme ' s preparation and implementation , and reassessed in the context of the relevant evaluations and review processes . _________________ 74 com 321 final , page 1 ### reflecting the importance of tackling climate change in line with the union’s commitments to implement the paris agreement and the united nations sustainable development goals , this programme will contribute to mainstream climate actions and lead to the swift achievement of an overall target of at least 25% of the eu budget expenditures supporting climate objectives74 over the mff 2021 - 2027 period and 30% as soon as possible at the latest by 2027 . relevant actions will be identified during the programme ' s preparation and implementation , and reassessed in the context of the relevant evaluations and review processes . it is imperative that the eu delivers on its commitment to be a frontrunner in implementing the un sustainable development goals although there is a lack of a clear and visible commitment to that end in the mff proposals , therefore , the mainstreaming of the sdgs should be present in all eu policies and initiatives of the next mff . _________________ 74 com 321 final , page 1


### in order to ensure uniform conditions for the implementation of this regulation , implementing powers should be conferred on the commission for the adoption of the work programmes so that the objectives of the programme are achieved in accordance with the union ' s and member states ' priorities while ensuring consistency , transparency and continuity of joint action by the union and the member states . those powers should be exercised in accordance with the advisory procedure referred to in article 4 of regulation 182 / 201175 laying down the rules and general principles concerning mechanisms for control by the member states of the commission ' s exercise of implementing powers . __________________ 75 regulation no 182 / 2011 of the european parliament and of the council of 16 february 2011 laying down the rules and general principles concerning mechanisms for control by member states of the commission’s exercise of implementing powers ### deleted


### the work programmes should be adopted in principle as multi - annual work programmes , typically every two years , or , if justified by the needs related to the implementation of the programme , annual work programmes . 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 . ### work programmes should be adopted so that the objectives of the programme are achieved in accordance with the union ' s and member states ' priorities , while ensuring consistency , transparency and continuity of joint action by the union and the member states . the work programmes should be adopted in principle every two years , or , if justified by the needs related to the implementation of the programme , on an annual basis . 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 .


### the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union should be delegated to the commission concerning amendments to annex ii to review and / or complement the indicators . it is of particular importance that the commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level , and that those consultations be conducted in accordance with the principles laid down in the interinstitutional agreement on better law - making of 13 april 2016 . in particular , to ensure equal participation in the preparation of delegated acts , the european parliament and the council receive all documents at the same time as member states ' experts , and their experts systematically have access to meetings of commission expert groups dealing with the preparation of delegated acts . ### the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union should be delegated to the commission concerning the adoption of work programmes , amendments to annex ii to review and / or complement the indicators . it is of particular importance that the commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level , and that those consultations be conducted in accordance with the principles laid down in the interinstitutional agreement on better law - making of 13 april 2016 . in particular , to ensure equal participation in the preparation of delegated acts , the european parliament and the council receive all documents at the same time as member states ' experts , and their experts systematically have access to meetings of commission expert groups dealing with the preparation of delegated acts .


### this regulation respects fundamental rights and observes the principles recognised in the charter of fundamental rights of the european unions , notably those referred under articles [ 8 ] , [ 11 ] , [ 16 ] , [ 21 ] , [ 35 ] , [ 38 ] and [ 47 ] regarding the protection of personal data , the freedom of expression and information , the freedom to conduct business , the prohibition of discrimination , healthcare , consumer protection and the right to effective remedy and fair trial . the member states must apply this regulation in a manner consistent with these rights and principles’ . ### this regulation respects fundamental rights and observes the principles recognised in the charter of fundamental rights of the european unions , notably those referred under articles [ 8 ] , [ 11 ] , [ 16 ] , [ 21 ] , [ 22 ] [ 35 ] , [ 38 ] , [ 41 ] and [ 47 ] regarding the protection of personal data , the freedom of expression and information , the freedom to conduct business , the prohibition of discrimination , linguistic diversity and right to communicate in any of the eu languages , healthcare , consumer protection and the right to effective remedy and fair trial . the member states must apply this regulation in a manner consistent with these rights and principles’ .


### this regulation establishes the digital europe programme . ### this regulation establishes the digital europe programme , which shall be implemented for the period of 1 january 2021 to 31 december 2027 .


### the programme has the following general objective : to support the digital transformation of the european economy and society and bring its benefits to european citizens and businesses . the programme will : ### the general objective of the programme shall be to support the digital transformation of the european economy and society and bring its benefits to european citizens and businesses . it shall :


### the programme has the following general objective : to support the digital transformation of the european economy and society and bring its benefits to european citizens and businesses . the programme will : ### the programme has the following general objective : to accelerate and support the digital transformation of the european economy and society by means of deploying 5g and very high capacity networks across the union and bring its benefits to european citizens and businesses , thus securing the union ' s economic and innovative competitiveness . the programme will :


### high performance computing ### it infrastructure including high performance computing


### deploy and operate a post - exascale78 infrastructure , including the integration with quantum computing technologies and develop new research infrastructures for computing science . __________________ 78 a thousand times faster than exascale ### deploy and operate a post - exascale78 infrastructure , including the integration with quantum computing technologies and develop new research infrastructures for high - performance computing science . __________________ 78 a thousand times faster than exascale


### support the best use of european knowledge , capacity and skills related to cybersecurity ; ### support the best use of knowledge , capacity and skills related to cybersecurity in europe ;


### support the best use of european knowledge , capacity and skills related to cybersecurity ; ### support the development , exchange and best use of european knowledge , capacity and skills related to cybersecurity , including through more training and education ;


### reinforce capabilities within member states and private sector to help them meet directive 2016 / 1148 of the european parliament and of the council of 6 july 2016 concerning measures for a high common level of security of network and information systems across the union79 . __________________ 79 oj l 194 , 19 . 7 . 2016 , p . 1–30 ### reinforce capabilities within member states and the private sector to help them meet the requirements laid down in directive 2016 / 1148 of the european parliament and of the council of 6 july 2016 concerning measures for a high common level of security of network and information systems across the union79 . __________________ 79 oj l 194 , 19 . 7 . 2016 , p . 1–30


### the financial intervention by the union under specific objective 4 . advanced digital skills shall support the development of advanced digital skills in areas supported by this programme , thus contributing to increase europe ' s talent pool , fostering greater professionalism , especially with regard to high performance computing , big data analytics , cybersecurity , distributed ledger technologies , robotics and artificial intelligence . the financial intervention shall pursue the following operational objectives : ### the financial intervention by the union under specific objective 4 . advanced digital skills shall support the development of advanced digital skills in areas supported by this programme , thus contributing to increase the union’s talent pool , fostering greater professionalism , especially with regard to high performance computing , big data analytics , cybersecurity , distributed ledger technologies , robotics , artificial intelligence and computer linguistics . the financial intervention shall pursue the following operational objectives :


### the financial intervention by the union under specific objective 4 . advanced digital skills shall support the development of advanced digital skills in areas supported by this programme , thus contributing to increase europe ' s talent pool , fostering greater professionalism , especially with regard to high performance computing , big data analytics , cybersecurity , distributed ledger technologies , robotics and artificial intelligence . the financial intervention shall pursue the following operational objectives : ### the financial intervention by the union under specific objective 4 . advanced digital skills shall support the development of advanced digital skills in areas supported by this programme , thus contributing to increase europe ' s talent pool , fostering greater professionalism , especially with regard to high performance computing , big data analytics , language technologies , cybersecurity , distributed ledger technologies , robotics and artificial intelligence . the financial intervention shall pursue the following operational objectives :


### support the design and delivery of short - term trainings and courses for entrepreneurs , small business leaders and the workforce ; ### support the design and delivery of short - term trainings and high quality courses for entrepreneurs , teachers , small business leaders and the workforce , including public servants ;


### support the design and delivery of short - term trainings and courses for entrepreneurs , small business leaders and the workforce ; ### support the design and delivery of short - term and long - term trainings and courses and research for it professionals , educators , entrepreneurs , leaders of small and medium - sized businesses and the workforce ;


### the financial intervention by the union under specific objective 5 . deployment , best use of digital capacities and interoperability shall achieve the following operational objectives : ### the financial intervention by the union under specific objective 5 . 5g deployment , very high capacity networks , digital capacities and interoperability shall achieve the following operational objectives , which shall , where appropriate , complement the digital infrastructure actions to that end under the connecting europe facility :


### ensure that the public sector and areas of public interests , such as health and care , education , judiciary , transport , energy , environment , cultural and creative sectors , can deploy and access state - of - the - art digital technologies , in particular high performance computing , artificial intelligence and cybersecurity ; ### ensure that the public sector and areas of public interests , such as health and care , education , judiciary , transport , energy , environment , cultural and creative sectors , can effectively deploy and have the necessary skills through training to use state - of - the - art digital technologies , in particular high performance computing , language technology , artificial intelligence and cybersecurity ;


### ensure that the public sector and areas of public interests , such as health and care , education , judiciary , transport , energy , environment , cultural and creative sectors , can deploy and access state - of - the - art digital technologies , in particular high performance computing , artificial intelligence and cybersecurity ; ### facilitate and support 5g deployment and very high capacity networks , so as to ensure that the public sector and areas of public interests , such as health and care , education , judiciary , transport , energy , environment , cultural and creative sectors , as well business established within the union can deploy and access state - of - the - art digital technologies , in particular high performance computing , artificial intelligence and cybersecurity ;


### ensure that the public sector and areas of public interests , such as health and care , education , judiciary , transport , energy , environment , cultural and creative sectors , can deploy and access state - of - the - art digital technologies , in particular high performance computing , artificial intelligence and cybersecurity ; ### ensure that the public sector and areas of public interests , such as health and care , education , judiciary , security , transport , energy , environment , cultural and creative sectors , can deploy and access state - of - the - art digital technologies , in particular high performance computing , artificial intelligence and cybersecurity ;


### ensure that the public sector and areas of public interests , such as health and care , education , judiciary , transport , energy , environment , cultural and creative sectors , can deploy and access state - of - the - art digital technologies , in particular high performance computing , artificial intelligence and cybersecurity ; ### ensure that the public sector and areas of public interests , such as health and care , education , judiciary , transport , energy , environment , cultural and creative sectors , can deploy and access state - of - the - art digital technologies , in particular high performance computing , artificial intelligence and cybersecurity , in compliance with the provisions of the general data protection regulation ;


### offer to public administrations access to testing and piloting of digital technologies , including their cross - border use ; ### offer to public administrations or public - private partnerships access to testing and piloting of digital technologies , including their cross - border use ;


### support the design , testing , implementation and deployment of interoperable digital solutions for eu level public services delivered through a data - driven reusable solutions platform , fostering innovation and establishing common frameworks in order to unleash the full potential of the public administrations’ services for european citizens and businesses ; ### support the design , testing , implementation and deployment of interoperable multilingual digital solutions for eu level public services delivered through a data - driven reusable solutions platform , fostering innovation and establishing common frameworks in order to unleash the full potential of the public administrations’ services for european citizens and businesses ;


### support the design , testing , implementation and deployment of interoperable digital solutions for eu level public services delivered through a data - driven reusable solutions platform , fostering innovation and establishing common frameworks in order to unleash the full potential of the public administrations’ services for european citizens and businesses ; ### support the design , maintain , testing , implementation and deployment of interoperable digital solutions for eu level public services delivered through a data - driven reusable solutions platform , fostering innovation and establishing common frameworks in order to unleash the full potential of the public administrations’ services for european citizens and businesses ;


### support the design , testing , implementation and deployment of interoperable digital solutions for eu level public services delivered through a data - driven reusable solutions platform , fostering innovation and establishing common frameworks in order to unleash the full potential of the public administrations’ services for european citizens and businesses ; ### support the design , testing , implementation and deployment of interoperable digital solutions for eu level public services delivered through a data - driven reusable solutions platform , fostering research , innovation and establishing common frameworks in order to unleash the full potential of the public administrations’ services for european citizens and businesses ;


### support cooperation towards achieving a european ecosystem for trusted infrastructures using distributed ledger services and applications , including support for interoperability and standardisation and fostering the deployment of eu cross - border applications ; ### support cooperation towards achieving a european ecosystem for trusted infrastructures , including support for interoperability , encryption and standardisation and fostering the deployment of eu cross - border applications ;


### the programme is designed to be implemented enabling synergies , as further described in annex iii , with other union funding programmes , in particular through arrangements for complementary funding from eu programmes where management modalities permit ; either in sequence , in an alternating way , or through the combination of funds including for the joint funding of actions . ### the programme shall enable synergies , as further described in annex iii , with other union funding programmes , in particular through arrangements for complementary funding from eu programmes where management modalities permit , either in sequence , in an alternating way , or through the combination of funds including for the joint funding of actions .


### the programme is designed to be implemented enabling synergies , as further described in annex iii , with other union funding programmes , in particular through arrangements for complementary funding from eu programmes where management modalities permit ; either in sequence , in an alternating way , or through the combination of funds including for the joint funding of actions . ### the programme is designed to be implemented enabling synergies and complementarity , as further described in annex iii , with other union funding programmes , in particular through arrangements for complementary funding from eu programmes where management modalities permit ; either in sequence , in an alternating way , or through the combination of funds including for the joint funding of actions .


### appropriate mechanisms of coordination between relevant authorities and appropriate monitoring tools shall be established to systematically ensure synergies between the programme and any relevant eu funding instruments . the arrangements shall contribute to avoiding duplications and maximising impact of expenditure . ### appropriate mechanisms of coordination between relevant authorities and appropriate monitoring tools shall be established to systematically ensure synergies and complementarity between the programme and any relevant eu funding instruments . the arrangements shall contribute to avoiding duplications , ensuring compliance with conditions laid down in article 10 and and maximising impact of expenditure .


### during the first year of the implementation of the programme , an initial network of digital innovation hubs shall be established . ### during the first year of the implementation of the programme , an initial network of european digital innovation hubs shall be established building on existing infrastructure , if applicable .


### appropriate competences related to the functions of the digital innovation hubs ; ### appropriate competences related to the functions of the digital innovation hubs , including capacity of validating technologies ;


### additional digital innovation hubs shall be selected on the basis of an open and competitive process , in such a way to ensure the widest geographical coverage across europe . the number of entities of the network shall be proportional to the population of a given member states and there shall be at least one digital innovation hub per member state . to address the specific constraints faced by the eu outermost regions , specific entities may be nominated to cover their needs . ### additional digital innovation hubs shall be selected on the basis of an open and competitive process , in such a way to ensure the widest geographical coverage across europe . the number of entities of the network shall be proportional to the population of a given member states and there shall be at least one digital innovation hub per member state . to address the specific constraints faced by the eu outermost regions , specific entities may be nominated to cover their needs . the same shall apply in the overseas countries and territories of a member state .


### where applicable , the economic , social , climate and environmental impact , and accessibility ; ### the impact on society , workforce , economy , climate , environment and accessibility ;


### to ensure effective assessment of progress of the programme towards the achievement of its objectives , the commission is empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 27 to amend annex ii to review or complement the indicators where considered necessary and to supplement this regulation with provisions on the establishment of a monitoring and evaluation framework . ### to assess efficiently the progress of the programme towards the achievement of its objectives , the commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 27 to amend annex ii to review or complement the indicators where considered necessary and to supplement this regulation with provisions on the establishment of a monitoring and evaluation framework .


### to ensure effective assessment of progress of the programme towards the achievement of its objectives , the commission is empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 27 to amend annex ii to review or complement the indicators where considered necessary and to supplement this regulation with provisions on the establishment of a monitoring and evaluation framework . ### to ensure effective assessment of progress of the programme towards the achievement of its objectives , the commission is empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 27 to amend annex ii to review or complement the measurable indicators where considered necessary and to supplement this regulation with provisions on the establishment of a monitoring and evaluation framework .


### the performance reporting system shall ensure that data for monitoring programme implementation and results are collected efficiently , effectively , and in a timely manner . to that end , proportionate reporting requirements shall be imposed on recipients of union funds and member states . ### the performance reporting system shall ensure that data for monitoring programme implementation and results are collected efficiently , effectively , and in a timely manner . to that end , specific reporting requirements shall be imposed on recipients of union funds and member states .


### official eu statistics such as regular ict statistical surveys shall be used to their maximum . national statistical institutes shall be consulted on , and involved together with eurostat , in the initial design and subsequent development of statistical indicators used for monitoring the implementation of the programme and the progress made with regard to digital transformation . ### official eu statistics such as regular ict statistical surveys shall be used in the most efficient manner possible , as well as collection of desi datasets at nuts - 2 to help address the lack of digital europe related regional data . national statistical institutes shall be consulted on , and involved together with eurostat , in the initial design and subsequent development of statistical indicators used for monitoring the implementation of the programme and the progress made with regard to digital transformation .


### evaluation ### programme evaluation


### evaluations shall be carried out in a timely manner to feed into the decision - making process . ### the commission shall ensure regular monitoring and external evaluation of the programme , based notably on the performance reporting system as referred to in article 24 paragraph 3 .


### the interim evaluation of the programme shall be performed once there is sufficient information available about the implementation of the programme , but no later than four years after the start of the implementation of the programme . ### in addition to regularly monitoring the programme , the commission shall establish an interim evaluation report and shall submit it to the european parliament , the council , the european economic and social committee and the committee of the regions no later than 31 december 2024 .


### at the end of the implementation of the programme , but no later than four years after the end of the period specified in article [ 1 ] , a final evaluation of the programme shall be carried out by the commission . ### on the basis of a final external and independent evaluation , the commission shall establish a final evaluation report of the programme , which assesses its longer - term impacts and its sustainability .


### the power to adopt delegated acts referred to in article 24 shall be conferred on the commission until 31 december 2028 . ### the power to adopt delegated acts referred to in articles 23 and 24 shall be conferred on the commission until 31 december 2028 .


### the delegation of power referred to in article 24 may be revoked at any time by the european parliament or by the council . a decision to revoke shall put an end to the delegation of power specified in that decision . it shall take effect the day following the publication of the decision in the official journal of the european union or at a later date specified therein . it shall not affect the validity of any delegated acts already in force . ### the delegation of power referred to in articles 23 and 24 may be revoked at any time by the european parliament or by the council . a decision to revoke shall put an end to the delegation of power specified in that decision . it shall take effect the day following the publication of the decision in the official journal of the european union or at a later date specified therein . it shall not affect the validity of any delegated acts already in force .