### assistance should also be provided in compliance with the agreements concluded by the union with the beneficiaries listed in annex i . assistance should mainly focus on assisting the beneficiaries listed in annex i to strengthen democratic institutions and the rule of law , reform the judiciary and public administration , respect fundamental rights and promote gender equality , tolerance , social inclusion and non - discrimination . assistance should also support the key principles and rights as defined in the european pillar of social rights . assistance should continue to support their efforts to advance regional , macro - regional and cross - border cooperation as well as territorial development , including through implementation of union macro - regional strategies . it should also enhance their economic and social development and economic governance , underpinning a smart , sustainable and inclusive growth agenda , including through implementation of regional development , agriculture and rural development , social and employment policies and the development of the digital economy and society , also in line with the flagship initiative digital agenda for the western balkans . ### assistance should also be provided in compliance with the agreements concluded by the union with the beneficiaries . assistance should mainly focus on assisting the beneficiaries to strengthen democratic institutions and the rule of law , reform the judiciary and public administration , respect fundamental rights , including the rights of persons belonging to minorities , and promote gender equality , tolerance , social inclusion , respect for internationally agreed labour standards on workers’ rights and non - discrimination . assistance should also support adherence by the beneficiaries to the key principles and rights as defined in the european pillar of social rights , to the social market economy and convergence towards the social acquis . assistance should continue to support their efforts to advance regional , macro - regional and cross - border cooperation as well as territorial development , including through implementation of union macro - regional strategies . it should also enhance their economic and social development and economic governance , underpinning a smart , sustainable and inclusive growth agenda , including through implementation of regional development , agriculture and rural development , social and employment policies and the development of the digital economy and society , also in line with the flagship initiative digital agenda for the western balkans .


### the [ erdf ] 32 shall contribute to programmes or measures established for cross–border cooperation between the beneficiaries listed in annex i and member states . these programmes and measures shall be adopted by the commission in accordance with article 16 . the amount of the contribution from ipa - cbc shall be determined pursuant to article 10 of [ etc regulation ] . ipa - cross border cooperation programmes shall be managed in accordance with [ etc regulation ] . ________________________ 32 com 372 final proposal for a regulation of the european parliament and of the council on the european regional development fund and on the cohesion fund ### the [ erdf ] 32 shall contribute to programmes or measures established for cross–border cooperation between the beneficiaries and one or more member states . these programmes and measures shall be adopted by the commission in accordance with article 16 . the amount of the contribution from ipa - cbc shall be determined pursuant to article 10 of [ etc regulation ] , with a maximum threshold for an ipa iii contribution set at 85 % . ipa - cross border cooperation programmes shall be managed in accordance with [ etc regulation ] . _____________________ 32 com 372 final proposal for a regulation of the european parliament and of the council on the european regional development fund and on the cohesion fund


### the enlargement process is built on established criteria and fair and rigorous conditionality . each beneficiary is assessed on the basis of its own merits . the assessment of progress achieved and the identification of shortcomings aim to provide incentives and guidance to the beneficiaries listed in annex i to pursue the necessary far - reaching reforms . for the prospect of enlargement to become a reality , a firm commitment to the principle of the ' fundamentals first ' 15 remains essential . progression towards accession depends on each applicant ' s respect for the union ' s values and its capacity to undertake the necessary reforms to align its political , institutional , legal , administrative and economic systems with the rules , standards , policies and practices in the union . _________________ 15 the ' fundamentals first ' approach links rule of law and fundamental rights with the two other crucial areas of the accession process : economic governance – strengthened focus on economic development and improved competitiveness – and the strengthening of democratic institutions and public administration reform . each of the three fundamentals is of crucial importance for the reform processes in the candidate countries and potential candidates and addresses key concerns of the citizens . ### the enlargement process is built on established criteria and fair and rigorous conditionality . each beneficiary is assessed on the basis of its own merits . the assessment of progress achieved and the identification of shortcomings aim to provide incentives and guidance to the beneficiaries listed in annex i to pursue the necessary far - reaching reforms . for the prospect of enlargement to become a reality , a firm commitment to the principle of the ' fundamentals first ' 15 remains essential . furthermore , good neighbourly relations and regional cooperation are also essential elements of the enlargement process . progress towards accession depends on each applicant ' s respect for the union ' s values and its capacity to undertake the necessary reforms to align its political , institutional , legal , administrative and economic systems with the rules , standards , policies and practices in the union . _________________ 15 the ' fundamentals first ' approach links rule of law and fundamental rights with the two other crucial areas of the accession process : economic governance – strengthened focus on economic development and improved competitiveness – and the strengthening of democratic institutions and public administration reform . each of the three fundamentals is of crucial importance for the reform processes in the candidate countries and potential candidates and addresses key concerns of the citizens .


### the commission and the member states should ensure compliance , coherence , and complementarity of their assistance , in particular through regular consultations and frequent exchanges of information during the different phases of the assistance cycle . the necessary steps should also be taken to ensure better coordination and complementarity , including through regular consultations , with other donors . the role of civil society should be enhanced both in programmes implemented through government bodies and as a direct beneficiary of union assistance . ### the commission and the member states should ensure compliance , coherence , consistency and complementarity of their assistance , in particular through regular consultations and frequent exchanges of information during the different phases of the assistance cycle . the necessary steps should also be taken to ensure better coordination and complementarity , including through regular consultations , with other donors . the role of diverse independent civil society organisations and different types and levels of local authorities should be adequately enhanced both in programmes implemented through government bodies and as a direct beneficiary of union assistance .


### promoting smart , sustainable , inclusive , safe transport and removing bottlenecks in key network infrastructures , by investing in projects with high eu value - added . the investments should be prioritised according to their relevance to ten - t connections with the eu , contribution to sustainable mobility , reduced emissions , environmental impact , safe mobility , in synergy with the reforms promoted by the transport community treaty . ### promoting smart , sustainable , inclusive , safe transport and removing bottlenecks in key network infrastructures , by investing in projects with high eu value - added . the investments should be prioritised according to their relevance to ten - t connections with the eu , job creation , contribution to sustainable mobility , reduced emissions , environmental impact , safe mobility , in synergy with the reforms promoted by the transport community treaty .


### number of cross - border cooperation programmes concluded among ipa beneficiaries and ipa / eu ms ### number of cross - border cooperation programmes concluded and implemented among ipa beneficiaries and ipa / eu ms , as indicated by the european commission .


### in implementing this regulation , consistency , synergies and complementarities with other areas of union external action , with other relevant union policies and programmes , as well as policy coherence for development shall be ensured . ### in applying this regulation , consistency , synergies and complementarities with other areas of union external action , with other relevant union policies and programmes , as well as policy coherence for development shall be ensured .


### in addition to article 129 of the financial regulation on the protection of the financial interests of the union , under indirect management , beneficiaries listed in annex i shall report the irregularities including fraud which have been the subject of a primary administrative or judicial finding , without delay , to the commission and keep the latter informed of the progress of administrative and legal proceeding . reporting shall be done by electronic means , using the irregularity management system , established by the commission . ### in addition to article 129 of the financial regulation on the protection of the financial interests of the union , under indirect management , beneficiaries shall report the irregularities including fraud which have been the subject of a primary administrative or judicial finding , without delay , to the commission and keep the latter informed of the progress of administrative and legal proceeding . reporting shall be done by electronic means , using the irregularity management system , established by the commission . the commission shall support the development in the beneficiaries of parliamentary control and audit capacities and increased transparency and public access to information . the commission , the hr / vp and in particular union delegations in the beneficiaries shall ensure that all funding allocations under indirect management are carried out in a transparent , depoliticised and non - partial manner , including equitable distribution , reflecting the needs of the regions and local municipalities .


### programmes and actions under this regulation shall mainstream climate change , environmental protection and gender equality and shall , where applicable , address interlinkages between sustainable development goals34 , to promote integrated actions that can create co - benefits and meet multiple objectives in a coherent way . _________________ 34 https : / / ec . europa . eu / europeaid / policies / sustainable - development - goals_en ### programmes and actions under this regulation shall mainstream climate change , environmental protection , conflict prevention , migration , security , social and regional cohesion and gender equality and shall , where applicable , address interlinkages between sustainable development goals34 , to promote integrated actions that can create co - benefits and meet multiple objectives in a coherent way . they shall aim to contribute 16 % of the overall financial envelope to climate objectives . _________________ 34 https : / / ec . europa . eu / europeaid / policies / sustainable - development - goals_en


### strengthening access to and quality of education , training and lifelong learning at all levels , and offering support to cultural and creative sectors . interventions in this area shall aim at : promoting equal access to quality early - childhood education and care , primary and secondary education , improving the provision of basic skills ; increasing educational attainment levels , reducing early school - leaving and reinforcing teachers’ training . developing vocational education and training systems and promoting work - based learning systems to facilitate the transition to the labour market ; improving the quality and relevance of higher education ; encouraging alumni related activities ; enhancing access to lifelong learning and supporting investment in education and training infrastructure particularly with a view to reducing territorial disparities and fostering non - segregated education and including through the use of digital technologies . ### strengthening access to and quality of education , training and lifelong learning at all levels , and offering support to cultural and creative sectors . interventions in this area shall aim at : promoting equal access to quality early - childhood education and care , primary and secondary education , improving the provision of basic skills ; increasing educational attainment levels , reducing early school - leaving and reinforcing teachers’ training ; empowering children and youth and enabling them to reach their full potential . developing vocational education and training systems and promoting work - based learning systems to facilitate the transition to the labour market ; improving the quality and relevance of higher education ; encouraging alumni related activities ; enhancing access to lifelong learning and supporting investment in education and training infrastructure particularly with a view to reducing territorial disparities and fostering non - segregated education and including through the use of digital technologies .


### promoting social protection and inclusion and combating poverty . interventions in this area shall aim at modernising social protection systems to provide effective , efficient , and adequate protection throughout all stages of a person ' s life , fostering social inclusion , promoting equal opportunities and addressing inequalities and poverty . interventions in this area shall also focus on : integrating marginalised communities such as the roma ; combating discrimination based on sex , racial or ethnic origin , religion or belief , disability , age or sexual orientation ; enhancing access to affordable , sustainable and high quality services , such as early childhood education and care , housing , healthcare and essential social services and long term care , including through the modernisation of social protection systems . ### promoting social protection and inclusion and combating poverty . interventions in this area shall aim at modernising social protection systems to provide effective , efficient , and adequate protection throughout all stages of a person ' s life , fostering social inclusion , promoting equal opportunities , addressing inequalities and poverty and promoting the transition from institutional to family and community based care . interventions in this area shall also focus on : integrating marginalised communities such as the roma ; combating discrimination based on sex , racial or ethnic origin , religion or belief , disability , age or sexual orientation ; enhancing access to affordable , sustainable and high quality services , such as inclusive and non - segregated early childhood education and care , housing , healthcare and essential social services and long term care , including through the modernisation of social protection systems . actions that contribute to any form of segregation or social exclusion should not be supported ;


### promoting social protection and inclusion and combating poverty . interventions in this area shall aim at modernising social protection systems to provide effective , efficient , and adequate protection throughout all stages of a person ' s life , fostering social inclusion , promoting equal opportunities and addressing inequalities and poverty . interventions in this area shall also focus on : integrating marginalised communities such as the roma ; combating discrimination based on sex , racial or ethnic origin , religion or belief , disability , age or sexual orientation ; enhancing access to affordable , sustainable and high quality services , such as early childhood education and care , housing , healthcare and essential social services and long term care , including through the modernisation of social protection systems . ### promoting social protection and inclusion and combating poverty . interventions in this area shall aim at modernising social protection systems to provide effective , efficient , and adequate protection throughout all stages of a person ' s life , fostering social inclusion , promoting equal opportunities and addressing inequalities and poverty , and promoting the transition from institutional to family and community based care . interventions in this area shall also focus on : integrating marginalised communities such as the roma ; combating discrimination based on sex , racial or ethnic origin , religion or belief , disability , age or sexual orientation ; enhancing access to affordable , sustainable and high quality family and community based services , such as inclusive and non - segregated early childhood education and care , housing , healthcare and essential social services and long term care , including through the modernisation of social protection systems . actions that contribute to any form of segregation or social exclusion should not be supported .


### indicators will , where relevant , be sex disaggregated . ### indicators will , where relevant , be disaggregated at minimum age and gender level .


### monitoring and evaluation ### monitoring , reporting , evaluation and communication


### indicators to monitor implementation and progress of the ipa iii towards the achievement of the specific objectives set out in article 3 are set in annex iv to this regulation . ### indicators to monitor execution and progress of the ipa iii towards the achievement of the specific objectives set out in article 3 are set in annex iv to this regulation .


### encouraging tourism and cultural and natural heritage ; ### encouraging tourism , sport , and cultural and natural heritage ;


### article 49 of the treaty on european union provides that any european state which respects the values of respect for human dignity , freedom , democracy , equality , the rule of law and respect for human rights , including the rights of persons belonging to minorities , and commits to promote these values , may apply to become a member of the union . a european state which has applied to join the union can become a member only when it has been confirmed that it meets the membership criteria established at the copenhagen european council in june 1993 and provided that the union has the capacity to integrate the new member . the copenhagen criteria relate to the stability of institutions guaranteeing democracy , the rule of law , human rights and respect for and protection of minorities , the existence of a functioning market economy as well as the capacity to cope with competitive pressure and market forces within the union , and the ability to assume not only the rights but also the obligations under the treaties , including adherence to the aims of political , economic and monetary union . ### article 49 teu provides that any european state which respects the values of respect for human dignity , freedom , democracy , equality , the rule of law and respect for human rights , including the rights of persons belonging to minorities , and commits to promote these values , may apply to become a member of the union . those values are common to member states in a society in which pluralism , non - discrimination , tolerance , justice , solidarity and equality between women and men prevail .


### establishing and promoting from an early stage the proper functioning of the institutions necessary in order to secure the rule of law . interventions in this area shall aim at : establishing independent , accountable and efficient judicial systems , including transparent and merit - based recruitment and promoting judicial cooperation , evaluation and promotion systems and effective disciplinary procedures in cases of wrongdoing ; ensuring the establishment of robust systems to protect the borders , manage migration flows and provide asylum to those in need ; developing effective tools to prevent and fight organised crime , trafficking in human beings , migrants smuggling , money laundering / financing of terrorism and corruption ; promoting and protecting human rights , rights of persons belonging to minorities including roma as well as lesbian , gay , bisexual , transgender and intersex persons fundamental freedoms , including freedom of the media and data protection . ### establishing and promoting from an early stage the proper functioning of the institutions necessary in order to secure the rule of law . interventions in this area shall aim at : establishing independent , accountable and efficient judicial systems , including transparent and merit - based recruitment and promoting judicial cooperation , evaluation and promotion systems and effective disciplinary procedures in cases of wrongdoing ; ensuring the establishment of robust systems to protect the borders , stem migration flows and provide asylum to those in need ; developing effective tools to prevent and fight organised crime , trafficking in human beings , migrants smuggling , money laundering / financing of terrorism and corruption ; promoting and protecting human rights , rights of persons belonging to national , ethnic , linguistic and other minorities including roma , promoting and protecting cultural and linguistic diversity , fundamental rights including freedom of the media and data protection .


### the ipa programming framework shall include indicators for assessing progress with regard to attainment of the targets set therein . ### the ipa programming framework shall take into account clear and verifiable performance indicators set out in annex iv to this regulation for assessing progress with regard to attainment of the targets set therein . the performance - based approach under this regulation shall be the subject to a regular exchange of views in the european parliament and in the council .


### the beneficiaries listed in annex i need to be better prepared to address global challenges , such as sustainable development and climate change , and align with the union ' s efforts to address those issues . reflecting the importance of tackling climate change in line with the union ' s commitments to implement the paris agreement and the sustainable development goals , this programme should contribute to mainstream climate action in the union ' s policies and to the achievement of an overall target of 25 % of the eu budget expenditures supporting climate objectives . actions under this programme are expected to contribute 16 % of the overall financial envelope of the programme to climate objectives . relevant actions will be identified during the programme ' s preparation and implementation , and the overall contribution from this programme should be part of relevant evaluations and review processes . ### the beneficiaries need to be better prepared to address global challenges , such as sustainable development and climate change , and align with the union ' s efforts to address those issues . reflecting the importance of tackling climate change in line with the union ' s commitments to implement the paris agreement and the sustainable development goals , this programme should contribute to mainstream climate action in the union ' s policies and to the achievement of an overall target of 25 % of the eu budget expenditures supporting climate objectives . actions under this programme should aim to contribute 16 % of the overall financial envelope of the programme to climate objectives , striving to achieve the goal that climate - related spending reaches 30 % of mff expenditure by 2027 . relevant actions will be identified during the programme ' s preparation and implementation , and the overall contribution from this programme should be part of relevant evaluations and review processes .


### public social security expenditure or employment rate ### public social security expenditure , as indicated by ilo , health expenditure , income inequality , poverty rate , employment rate and unemployment rate , as indicated by official national statistics .


### the commission and the member states shall cooperate in ensuring coherence and shall strive to avoid duplication between assistance provided under ipa iii and other assistance provided by the union , the member states and the european investment bank , in line with the established principles for strengthening operational coordination in the field of external assistance , and for the harmonisation of policies and procedures , in particular the international principles on development effectiveness . 35 coordination shall involve regular consultations , frequent exchanges of information during the different phases of the assistance cycle and inclusive meetings aimed at coordinating the assistance and shall constitute a key step in the programming processes of the union and the member states . __________________ 35 https : / / ec . europa . eu / europeaid / policies / eu - approach - aid - effectiveness_en ### the commission and the member states shall cooperate in ensuring coherence and shall strive to avoid duplication between assistance provided under ipa iii and other assistance provided by the union , the member states and the european investment bank , in line with the established principles for strengthening operational coordination in the field of external assistance , and for the harmonisation of policies and procedures , in particular the international principles on development effectiveness . 35 coordination shall involve regular consultations , frequent exchanges of information during the different phases of the assistance cycle and inclusive meetings aimed at coordinating the assistance and shall constitute a key step in the programming processes of the union and the member states . the assistance should set out to ensure alignment with the union strategy for smart , sustainable and inclusive growth , effective and efficient implementation of the funds , arrangements for the partnership principle and an integrated approach to territorial development . __________________ 35 https : / / ec . europa . eu / europeaid / policies / eu - approach - aid - effectiveness_en


### strengthening the capacities of civil society organisations and social partners ' organisations , including professional associations , in beneficiaries listed in annex i and encouraging networking at all levels among union - based organisations and those of beneficiaries listed in annex i , enabling them to engage in an effective dialogue with public and private actors . ### strengthening the capacities of civil society organisations and social partners ' organisations , including professional associations , in beneficiaries and encouraging networking at all levels among union - based organisations and those of beneficiaries , enabling them to engage in an effective dialogue with public and private actors . assistance shall endeavour to be accessible to a variety of organisations in beneficiaries that is as wide as possible .


### the amount referred to in paragraph 1 may be used for technical and administrative assistance for the implementation of the programme , such as preparatory , monitoring , control , audit and evaluation activities including corporate information technology systems and any activities related to the preparation of the successor programme for pre - accession assistance , in accordance with article 20 of [ ndici regulation ] . ### the amount referred to in paragraph 1 may be used for technical and administrative assistance for the execution of the programme , such as preparatory , monitoring , control , audit and evaluation activities including corporate information technology systems and any activities related to the preparation of the successor programme for pre - accession assistance .


### the enlargement policy framework defined by the european council and the council , the agreements that establish a legally binding relationship with the beneficiaries listed in annex i , as well as relevant resolutions of the european parliament , communications of the commission or joint communications of the commission and the high representative of the union for foreign affairs and security policy , shall constitute the overall policy framework for the implementation of this regulation . the commission shall ensure coherence between the assistance and the enlargement policy framework . ### the enlargement policy framework defined by the european council and the council , the agreements that establish a legally binding relationship with the beneficiaries , as well as relevant resolutions of the european parliament , communications of the commission or joint communications of the commission and the high representative of the union for foreign affairs and security policy , shall constitute the comprehensive policy framework for the implementation of this regulation . the commission shall ensure coherence between the assistance and the overall enlargement policy framework . the hr / vp shall ensure overall political coordination of the union ' s external action , its unity , consistency and effectiveness , including by means of this regulation . the european external action service shall therefore coordinate programming under this regulation and contribute to the management cycle for this regulation , on the basis of the policy objectives set out in article 3 .


### in accordance with the principle of participatory democracy , parliamentary oversight in each beneficiary listed in annex i should be encouraged by the commission . ### in accordance with the principle of participatory democracy , the strengthening of parliamentary capacities and parliamentary oversight in each of the beneficiaries should be promoted by the commission .


### strengthening the union and its partners ' capacity to prevent conflict , build peace and address pre - and post - crisis including through early warning and conflict - sensitive risk analysis ; promoting people to people networking , reconciliation , peace - building and confidence - building measures , supporting capacity building in support of security and development actions . ### strengthening the union and its partners ' capacity to prevent conflict , build peace and address pre - and post - crisis including through early warning and conflict - sensitive risk analysis ; promoting people to people networking , reconciliation , peace - building and confidence - building measures , including setting up the regional commission for the establishment of facts about war crimes and other serious violations of human rights committed in the former yugoslavia , as well as supporting capacity building in support of security and development actions .


### in addition to article 129 of the financial regulation on the protection of the financial interests of the union , under indirect management , beneficiaries listed in annex i shall report the irregularities including fraud which have been the subject of a primary administrative or judicial finding , without delay , to the commission and keep the latter informed of the progress of administrative and legal proceeding . reporting shall be done by electronic means , using the irregularity management system , established by the commission . ### in addition to article 129 of the financial regulation on the protection of the financial interests of the union , under indirect management , beneficiaries shall report the irregularities including fraud which have been the subject of a primary administrative or judicial finding , without delay , to the commission and keep the latter informed of the progress of administrative and legal proceeding . reporting shall be done by electronic means , using the irregularity management system , established by the commission . the commission shall support the development in the beneficiaries of parliamentary control and audit capacities and increased transparency and public access to information . the commission , the hr / vp and in particular union delegations in the beneficiaries shall ensure that all funding allocations under indirect management are carried out in a transparent , depoliticised and non - partial manner , including equitable distribution , reflecting the needs of the regions and local municipalities .


### assistance under ipa iii shall be based on an ipa programming framework for the delivery of the specific objectives referred to in article 3 . the ipa programming framework shall be established by the commission for the duration of the union ' s multiannual financial framework . ### this regulation shall be supplemented by an ipa programming framework establishing further provisions on how the specific objectives referred to in article 3 shall be pursued . the ipa programming framework shall be established by the commission for the duration of the union ' s multiannual financial framework , subject to paragraph 3 of this article .


### it is in the union ' s interest to assist the beneficiaries listed in annex i in their efforts to reform with a view to union membership . assistance should be managed with a strong focus on results and with incentives for those who demonstrate their commitment to reform through efficient implementation of pre - accession assistance and progress towards meeting the membership criteria . ### it is in the common interest of the union and the beneficiaries to assist the beneficiaries’ efforts to reform their political , legal and economic systems with a view to union membership . assistance should be managed with a strong focus on results and with incentives for those who demonstrate their commitment to reform through efficient implementation of pre - accession assistance and progress towards meeting the membership criteria . assistance should be allocated according to the performance - based approach in line with the “fair share” principle and clear consequences in cases of serious deterioration in the respect for human dignity , freedom , democracy , equality , the rule of law and human rights .


### to shape the rules , standards , policies and practices of the beneficiaries listed in annex i in alignment to those of the union and to reinforce reconciliation and good neighbourly relations , as well as people to people contacts and communication ; ### to shape the rules , standards , policies and practices of the beneficiaries in alignment to those of the union and to reinforce conflict prevention , reconciliation , peace - building , confidence - building , mediation and good neighbourly relations , as well as people to people contacts and communication ;


### where reference is made to this paragraph , article 5 of regulation no . 182 / 2011 shall apply . ### the commission shall adopt action plans and measures by decision in accordance with the financial regulation .


### the transition from direct management of pre - accession funds by the commission to indirect management by the beneficiaries listed in annex i should be progressive and in line with the respective capacities of those beneficiaries . assistance should continue to make use of the structures and instruments that have proved their worth in the pre - accession process . ### the transition from direct management of pre - accession funds by the commission to indirect management by the beneficiaries listed in annex i should be progressive and in line with the respective capacities of those beneficiaries . the transition should be suspended if eu funds are being used inefficiently , resulting in significant shortcomings of relevant obligations . assistance should continue to make use of the structures and instruments that have proved their worth in the pre - accession process .


### assistance should also be provided in compliance with the agreements concluded by the union with the beneficiaries listed in annex i . assistance should mainly focus on assisting the beneficiaries listed in annex i to strengthen democratic institutions and the rule of law , reform the judiciary and public administration , respect fundamental rights and promote gender equality , tolerance , social inclusion and non - discrimination . assistance should also support the key principles and rights as defined in the european pillar of social rights . 17 assistance should continue to support their efforts to advance regional , macro - regional and cross - border cooperation as well as territorial development , including through implementation of union macro - regional strategies . it should also enhance their economic and social development and economic governance , underpinning a smart , sustainable and inclusive growth agenda , including through implementation of regional development , agriculture and rural development , social and employment policies and the development of the digital economy and society , also in line with the flagship initiative digital agenda for the western balkans . __________________ 17 european pillar of social rights solemnly proclaimed by the european parliament , the council and the commission at the gothenburg social summit for fair jobs and growth , gothenburg 17 november 2017 . ### assistance should also be provided in compliance with the agreements concluded by the union with the beneficiaries listed in annex i . assistance should mainly focus on assisting the beneficiaries listed in annex i to strengthen democratic institutions and the rule of law , reform the judiciary and public administration , respect fundamental rights and promote gender equality , tolerance , social inclusion and non - discrimination . assistance should also support the key principles and rights as defined in the european pillar of social rights . 17 assistance should continue to support their efforts to advance regional , macro - regional and cross - border cooperation as well as territorial development , including through implementation of union macro - regional strategies with the aim to overcome geographical and cultural barriers , develop good neighbourly relations and reach reconciliation . it should also enhance their economic and social development and economic governance , underpinning a smart , sustainable and inclusive growth agenda , including through implementation of regional development , agriculture and rural development , social and employment policies and the development of the digital economy and society , also in line with the flagship initiative digital agenda for the western balkans __________________ 17 european pillar of social rights solemnly proclaimed by the european parliament , the council and the commission at the gothenburg social summit for fair jobs and growth , gothenburg 17 november 2017 .


### the commission and the member states should ensure compliance , coherence , and complementarity of their assistance , in particular through regular consultations and frequent exchanges of information during the different phases of the assistance cycle . the necessary steps should also be taken to ensure better coordination and complementarity , including through regular consultations , with other donors . the role of civil society should be enhanced both in programmes implemented through government bodies and as a direct beneficiary of union assistance . ### the commission and the member states should ensure compliance , coherence , and complementarity of their assistance , in particular through regular consultations and frequent exchanges of information during the different phases of the assistance cycle . the necessary steps should also be taken to ensure better coordination and complementarity , including through regular consultations , with other donors . the aim of that assistance should be to ensure consistency with the union strategy for smart , sustainable and inclusive growth and lay down arrangements for putting in place the partnership principle and an integrated approach to territorial development . the role of civil society should be enhanced both in programmes implemented through government bodies and as a direct beneficiary of union assistance .


### implementation ### programming framework and execution


### the enlargement policy of the union is an investment in peace , security and stability in europe . it provides increased economic and trade opportunities to the mutual benefit of the union and the aspiring member states . the prospect of union membership has a powerful transformative effect , embedding positive democratic , political , economic and societal change . ### the enlargement policy of the union is an investment in peace , security , stability and prosperity in europe . it provides increased economic and trade opportunities to the mutual benefit of the union and the aspiring member states . the prospect of union membership can have a powerful transformative effect , embedding positive democratic , political , economic and societal change . this potential should be tapped into to the highest possible degree .


### the [ erdf ] 32 shall contribute to programmes or measures established for cross–border cooperation between the beneficiaries listed in annex i and member states . these programmes and measures shall be adopted by the commission in accordance with article 16 . the amount of the contribution from ipa - cbc shall be determined pursuant to article 10 of [ etc regulation ] . ipa - cross border cooperation programmes shall be managed in accordance with [ etc regulation ] . ________________________ 32 com 372 final proposal for a regulation of the european parliament and of the council on the european regional development fund and on the cohesion fund ### the [ erdf ] 32 shall contribute to programmes or measures established for cross–border cooperation between the beneficiaries and one or more member states . these programmes and measures shall be adopted by the commission in accordance with article 16 . the amount of the contribution from ipa - cbc shall be determined pursuant to article 10 of [ etc regulation ] , with a maximum threshold for an ipa iii contribution set at 85 % . ipa - cross border cooperation programmes shall be managed in accordance with [ etc regulation ] . _____________________ 32 com 372 final proposal for a regulation of the european parliament and of the council on the european regional development fund and on the cohesion fund


### it is in the union ' s interest to assist the beneficiaries listed in annex i in their efforts to reform with a view to union membership . assistance should be managed with a strong focus on results and with incentives for those who demonstrate their commitment to reform through efficient implementation of pre - accession assistance and progress towards meeting the membership criteria . ### it is in the union ' s interest to assist the beneficiaries listed in annex i in their efforts to reform with a view to union membership . assistance should be managed with a strong focus on results and with incentives for more effective and efficient use of funds for those who demonstrate their commitment to reform through efficient implementation of pre - accession assistance and progress towards meeting the membership criteria , achieving positive changes in their socio - economic environment and response to current challenges .


### the financial envelope for the implementation of ipa iii for the period 2021 - 2027 shall be eur 14 500 000 000 in current prices . ### the financial envelope for the implementation of ipa iii for the period 2021 - 2027 shall be eur&#160 ; 13 009 976 000 in&#160 ; 2018 prices .


### establishing and promoting from an early stage the proper functioning of the institutions necessary in order to secure the rule of law . interventions in this area shall aim at : establishing independent , accountable and efficient judicial systems , including transparent and merit - based recruitment and promoting judicial cooperation , evaluation and promotion systems and effective disciplinary procedures in cases of wrongdoing ; ensuring the establishment of robust systems to protect the borders , manage migration flows and provide asylum to those in need ; developing effective tools to prevent and fight organised crime , trafficking in human beings , migrants smuggling , money laundering / financing of terrorism and corruption ; promoting and protecting human rights , rights of persons belonging to minorities including roma as well as lesbian , gay , bisexual , transgender and intersex persons fundamental freedoms , including freedom of the media and data protection . ### establishing and promoting from an early stage the proper functioning of the institutions necessary in order to secure the rule of law . interventions in this area shall aim at : establishing independent , accountable and efficient judicial systems , including transparent and merit - based recruitment and promoting judicial cooperation , evaluation and promotion systems and effective disciplinary procedures in cases of wrongdoing ; ensuring the establishment of adequate systems to protect the borders , manage migration flows and provide asylum to those in need ; developing effective tools to prevent and fight organised crime , trafficking in human beings , migrants smuggling , money laundering / financing of terrorism and corruption ; promoting and protecting human rights , gender equality , rights of persons belonging to minorities including roma as well as lesbian , gay , bisexual , transgender and intersex persons fundamental freedoms , including freedom of the media and data protection .


### assistance should also be provided in compliance with the agreements concluded by the union with the beneficiaries listed in annex i . assistance should mainly focus on assisting the beneficiaries listed in annex i to strengthen democratic institutions and the rule of law , reform the judiciary and public administration , respect fundamental rights and promote gender equality , tolerance , social inclusion and non - discrimination . assistance should also support the key principles and rights as defined in the european pillar of social rights . assistance should continue to support their efforts to advance regional , macro - regional and cross - border cooperation as well as territorial development , including through implementation of union macro - regional strategies . it should also enhance their economic and social development and economic governance , underpinning a smart , sustainable and inclusive growth agenda , including through implementation of regional development , agriculture and rural development , social and employment policies and the development of the digital economy and society , also in line with the flagship initiative digital agenda for the western balkans . ### assistance should also be provided in compliance with the agreements concluded by the union with the beneficiaries . assistance should mainly focus on assisting the beneficiaries to strengthen democratic institutions and the rule of law , reform the judiciary and public administration , respect fundamental rights , including the rights of persons belonging to minorities , and promote gender equality , tolerance , social inclusion , respect for internationally agreed labour standards on workers’ rights and non - discrimination . assistance should also support adherence by the beneficiaries to the key principles and rights as defined in the european pillar of social rights , to the social market economy and convergence towards the social acquis . assistance should continue to support their efforts to advance regional , macro - regional and cross - border cooperation as well as territorial development , including through implementation of union macro - regional strategies . it should also enhance their economic and social development and economic governance , underpinning a smart , sustainable and inclusive growth agenda , including through implementation of regional development , agriculture and rural development , social and employment policies and the development of the digital economy and society , also in line with the flagship initiative digital agenda for the western balkans .


### increasing the ability of the agri - food and fisheries sectors to cope with competitive pressure and market forces as well as to progressively align with the union rules and standards , while pursuing economic , social and environmental goals in balanced territorial development of rural and coastal areas . ### increasing the ability of the agri - food and fisheries sectors to cope with competitive pressure and market forces as well as to progressively align with the union rules and standards with a view to raising the capacity to exports to the union market , while pursuing economic , social and environmental goals in balanced territorial development of rural and coastal areas .


### in duly justified circumstances and in order to ensure the coherence and effectiveness of union financing or to foster regional cooperation , the commission may decide to extend the eligibility of action programmes and measures referred to in article 8 to countries , territories and regions other than those referred in annex i , where the programme or measure to be implemented is of a global , regional or cross - border nature . ### in duly justified circumstances and in order to ensure the coherence and effectiveness of union financing or to foster regional cooperation , the commission may decide to extend the eligibility of action programmes and measures referred to in article 8 to countries , territories and regions other than those referred in annex i , where the programme or measure to be applied is of a global , regional or cross - border nature .


### number of cross - border cooperation programmes concluded among ipa beneficiaries and ipa / eu ms ### number of cross - border cooperation programmes concluded and implemented among ipa beneficiaries and ipa / eu ms , as indicated by the european commission .


### specific rules establishing uniform conditions for implementing this regulation in particular in relation to the structures to be set up in preparation for accession and to rural development assistance , shall be adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 16 . ### specific rules in relation to the structures to be set up in preparation for accession and to rural development assistance , shall be adopted by means of a delegated act .


### where cross border cooperation programmes are discontinued in accordance with article 12 of [ etc regulation ] , support from this regulation to the discontinued programme that remains available may be used to finance any other actions eligible under this regulation . ### where cross border cooperation programmes are discontinued in accordance with article 12 of [ etc regulation ] , support from this regulation to the discontinued programme that remains available may be used to finance any other actions eligible under this regulation . in this case , if there are no eligible actions to be financed in the current year , it shall be possible to carry - over appropriations to the consecutive year .


### assistance under ipa iii shall be implemented in direct management or in indirect management in accordance with the financial regulation through annual or multi - annual action plans and measures as referred to in chapter iii of title ii of [ ndici regulation ] . chapter iii of title ii of [ ndici regulation ] shall apply to this regulation with the exception of paragraph 1 of article 24 [ eligible persons and entities ] . ### assistance under ipa iii shall be executed in direct management or in indirect management in accordance with the financial regulation through annual or multi - annual action plans and measures .


### public social security expenditure or employment rate ### public social security expenditure , as indicated by ilo , health expenditure , income inequality , poverty rate , employment rate and unemployment rate , as indicated by official national statistics .


### the power to adopt delegated acts as referred to in article 13 shall be conferred on the commission . ### the power to adopt delegated acts as referred to in articles 7 , 7a , 13 and 15 shall be conferred on the commission .


### establishing and promoting from an early stage the proper functioning of the institutions necessary in order to secure the rule of law . interventions in this area shall aim at : establishing independent , accountable and efficient judicial systems , including transparent and merit - based recruitment and promoting judicial cooperation , evaluation and promotion systems and effective disciplinary procedures in cases of wrongdoing ; ensuring the establishment of robust systems to protect the borders , manage migration flows and provide asylum to those in need ; developing effective tools to prevent and fight organised crime , trafficking in human beings , migrants smuggling , money laundering / financing of terrorism and corruption ; promoting and protecting human rights , rights of persons belonging to minorities including roma as well as lesbian , gay , bisexual , transgender and intersex persons fundamental freedoms , including freedom of the media and data protection . ### establishing and promoting from an early stage the proper functioning of the institutions necessary in order to secure the rule of law . interventions in this area shall aim at : establishing independent , accountable and efficient judicial systems , including transparent and merit - based recruitment and promoting judicial cooperation , evaluation and promotion systems and effective disciplinary procedures in cases of wrongdoing ; ensuring the establishment of robust systems to protect the borders , stem migration flows and provide asylum to those in need ; developing effective tools to prevent and fight organised crime , trafficking in human beings , migrants smuggling , money laundering / financing of terrorism and corruption ; promoting and protecting human rights , rights of persons belonging to national , ethnic , linguistic and other minorities including roma , protecting and promoting cultural and linguistic diversity , freedom of the media and data protection .


### the enlargement policy framework defined by the european council and the council , the agreements that establish a legally binding relationship with the beneficiaries listed in annex i , as well as relevant resolutions of the european parliament , communications of the commission or joint communications of the commission and the high representative of the union for foreign affairs and security policy , shall constitute the overall policy framework for the implementation of this regulation . the commission shall ensure coherence between the assistance and the enlargement policy framework . ### the enlargement policy framework defined by the european council and the council , the agreements that establish a legally binding relationship with the beneficiaries , as well as relevant resolutions of the european parliament , communications of the commission or joint communications of the commission and the high representative of the union for foreign affairs and security policy , shall constitute the comprehensive policy framework for the application of this regulation . the commission shall ensure coherence between the assistance and the overall enlargement policy framework . the hr / vp shall ensure political coordination of the union ' s external action within the framework of&#160 ; the policy objectives set out in article 3 .


### the beneficiaries listed in annex i need to be better prepared to address global challenges , such as sustainable development and climate change , and align with the union ' s efforts to address those issues . reflecting the importance of tackling climate change in line with the union ' s commitments to implement the paris agreement and the sustainable development goals , this programme should contribute to mainstream climate action in the union ' s policies and to the achievement of an overall target of 25 % of the eu budget expenditures supporting climate objectives . actions under this programme are expected to contribute 16 % of the overall financial envelope of the programme to climate objectives . relevant actions will be identified during the programme ' s preparation and implementation , and the overall contribution from this programme should be part of relevant evaluations and review processes . ### the beneficiaries need to be better prepared to address global challenges , such as sustainable development and climate change , and align with the union ' s efforts to address those issues . reflecting the importance of tackling climate change in line with the union ' s commitments to implement the paris agreement and the sustainable development goals , this programme should contribute to mainstream climate action in the union ' s policies and to the achievement of an overall target of 25 % of the eu budget expenditures supporting climate objectives . actions under this programme should aim to contribute 16 % of the overall financial envelope of the programme to climate objectives , striving to achieve the goal that climate - related spending reaches 30 % of mff expenditure by 2027 . relevant actions will be identified during the programme ' s preparation and implementation , and the overall contribution from this programme should be part of relevant evaluations and review processes .


### it is in the union ' s interest to assist the beneficiaries listed in annex i in their efforts to reform with a view to union membership . assistance should be managed with a strong focus on results and with incentives for those who demonstrate their commitment to reform through efficient implementation of pre - accession assistance and progress towards meeting the membership criteria . ### it is in the common interest of the union and the beneficiaries to assist the beneficiaries’ efforts to reform their political , legal and economic systems with a view to union membership . assistance should be managed with a strong focus on results and with incentives for those who demonstrate their commitment to reform through efficient implementation of pre - accession assistance and progress towards meeting the membership criteria . assistance should be allocated according to the performance - based approach in line with the “fair share” principle and clear consequences in cases of serious deterioration in the respect for human dignity , freedom , democracy , equality , the rule of law and human rights .


### the beneficiaries listed in annex i need to be better prepared to address global challenges , such as sustainable development and climate change , and align with the union ' s efforts to address those issues . reflecting the importance of tackling climate change in line with the union ' s commitments to implement the paris agreement and the sustainable development goals , this programme should contribute to mainstream climate action in the union ' s policies and to the achievement of an overall target of 25 % of the eu budget expenditures supporting climate objectives . actions under this programme are expected to contribute 16 % of the overall financial envelope of the programme to climate objectives . relevant actions will be identified during the programme ' s preparation and implementation , and the overall contribution from this programme should be part of relevant evaluations and review processes . ### the beneficiaries listed in annex i need to be better prepared to address global challenges , such as sustainable development and climate change , and align with the union ' s efforts to address those issues . reflecting the importance of tackling climate change in line with the union ' s commitments to implement the paris agreement and the sustainable development goals , this programme should contribute to mainstream climate action in the union ' s policies and to the achievement of an overall target of at least 25 % of the eu budget expenditures supporting climate objectives over the mff 2021 - 2027 period , and an annual target of 30 % as soon as possible , at the latest by 2027 . actions under this programme are expected to contribute 20 % of the overall financial envelope of the programme to climate objectives . in the case of cross - border pollution , priority of ipa spending should be given to preparation and implementation of the projects which will eliminate cross - border pollution . relevant actions will be identified during the programme ' s preparation and implementation , and the overall contribution from this programme should be part of relevant evaluations and review processes .


### fostering quality employment and access to the labour market . interventions in this area shall aim at : tackling high unemployment and inactivity by supporting sustainable labour market integration in particular of young people ) , women , long - term unemployed and all under - represented groups . measures shall stimulate quality job creation and support the effective enforcement of labour rules and standards across the entire territory . other key areas of intervention shall be to support gender equality , promoting employability and productivity , the adaptation of workers and enterprises to change , the establishment of a sustainable social dialogue and the modernisation and strengthening of labour market institutions such as public employment services and labour inspectorates . ### fostering quality employment and access to the labour market . interventions in this area shall aim at : tackling high unemployment and inactivity by supporting sustainable labour market integration in particular of young people ) , women , long - term unemployed and all under - represented groups . measures shall stimulate quality job creation and support the effective enforcement of labour rules and internationally agreed standards across the entire territory including by fostering adherence to the key principles and rights as referred to in the european pillar of social rights . other key areas of intervention shall be to support gender equality , promoting employability and productivity , the adaptation of workers and enterprises to change , the establishment of a sustainable social dialogue and the modernisation and strengthening of labour market institutions such as public employment services and labour inspectorates .


### establishing and promoting from an early stage the proper functioning of the institutions necessary in order to secure the rule of law . interventions in this area shall aim at : establishing independent , accountable and efficient judicial systems , including transparent and merit - based recruitment and promoting judicial cooperation , evaluation and promotion systems and effective disciplinary procedures in cases of wrongdoing ; ensuring the establishment of robust systems to protect the borders , manage migration flows and provide asylum to those in need ; developing effective tools to prevent and fight organised crime , trafficking in human beings , migrants smuggling , money laundering / financing of terrorism and corruption ; promoting and protecting human rights , rights of persons belonging to minorities including roma as well as lesbian , gay , bisexual , transgender and intersex persons fundamental freedoms , including freedom of the media and data protection . ### establishing and promoting from an early stage the proper functioning of the institutions necessary in order to secure the rule of law , democracy , fundamental rights and human rights , including the rights of minorities . interventions in this area shall aim at : establishing independent , accountable and efficient judicial systems , including transparent and merit - based recruitment and promoting judicial cooperation , evaluation and promotion systems and effective disciplinary procedures in cases of wrongdoing , safeguarding and promoting the independence of media ; developing effective tools to prevent and fight organised crime , trafficking in human beings , smuggling , money laundering / financing of terrorism and corruption ; promoting and protecting human rights , rights of persons belonging to minorities including roma as well as lesbian , gay , bisexual , transgender and intersex persons fundamental freedoms , including freedom of the media and data protection ; encouraging and supporting the effective participation of women and minority groups in politics ; addressing gender mainstreaming as a priority and taking concrete steps to gender mainstream all policies .


### the following list of key performance indicators shall be used to help measure the union’s contribution to the achievement of its specific objectives : ### the following list of key performance indicators and their annual evolution shall be used to help measure the union’s contribution to the achievement of its specific objectives :


### articles 36 and 37 of [ regulation ndici ] shall apply . ### when providing financial assistance under this regulation , the commission , the hr / vp and in particular the union delegations in the beneficiaries shall take all necessary measures in order to ensure the visibility of the union ' s financial support , including monitoring recipients ' compliance with those requirements . ipa - financed actions shall be subject to the requirements set out in the communication and visibility manual for eu external actions . the commission shall adopt guidance for union funded projects on visibility and communication actions for each beneficiary .


### enhanced strategic and operational cooperation between the union and the beneficiaries listed in annex i on security is pivotal to addressing effectively and efficiently security and terrorism threats . ### enhanced strategic and operational cooperation between the union and the beneficiaries listed in annex i on security and defence issues is pivotal to addressing effectively and efficiently security and terrorism threats .


### the following list of key performance indicators shall be used to help measure the union’s contribution to the achievement of its specific objectives : ### the following list of key performance indicators shall be used to help measure the union’s contribution to the achievement of its specific objectives and the progress made by the beneficiaries :


### strengthening economic governance : interventions shall aim at supporting participation in the economic reform programme process and systematic cooperation with international financial institutions on fundamentals of economic policy . enhancing the capacity to strengthen macroeconomic stability and supporting progress towards becoming a functioning market economy with the capacity to cope with competitive pressures and market forces within the union ; ### strengthening economic governance : interventions shall aim at supporting participation in the economic reform programme process and systematic cooperation with international financial institutions on fundamentals of economic policy . enhancing the capacity to strengthen macroeconomic stability , social cohesion and supporting progress towards becoming a functioning market economy with the capacity to cope with competitive pressures and market forces within the union ;


### the [ ndici regulation ] shall apply to activities implemented under this regulation where referred to in this regulation . ### the [ ndici regulation ] shall apply to activities executed under this regulation where referred to in this regulation .


### assistance should also be provided in compliance with the agreements concluded by the union with the beneficiaries listed in annex i . assistance should mainly focus on assisting the beneficiaries listed in annex i to strengthen democratic institutions and the rule of law , reform the judiciary and public administration , respect fundamental rights and promote gender equality , tolerance , social inclusion and non - discrimination . assistance should also support the key principles and rights as defined in the european pillar of social rights . 17 assistance should continue to support their efforts to advance regional , macro - regional and cross - border cooperation as well as territorial development , including through implementation of union macro - regional strategies . it should also enhance their economic and social development and economic governance , underpinning a smart , sustainable and inclusive growth agenda , including through implementation of regional development , agriculture and rural development , social and employment policies and the development of the digital economy and society , also in line with the flagship initiative digital agenda for the western balkans . __________________ 17 european pillar of social rights solemnly proclaimed by the european parliament , the council and the commission at the gothenburg social summit for fair jobs and growth , gothenburg 17 november 2017 . ### assistance should also be provided in compliance with the agreements concluded by the union with the beneficiaries listed in annex i . assistance should mainly focus on assisting the beneficiaries listed in annex i to strengthen democratic institutions and the rule of law , reform the judiciary and public administration , respect fundamental rights and promote gender equality , tolerance , social inclusion and non - discrimination . assistance should also support the key principles and rights as defined in the european pillar of social rights . 17 assistance should continue to support their efforts to advance regional , macro - regional and cross - border cooperation as well as territorial development , including through implementation of union macro - regional strategies with the aim to overcome geographical and cultural barriers , develop good neighbourly relations and reach reconciliation . it should also enhance their economic and social development and economic governance , underpinning a smart , sustainable and inclusive growth agenda , including through implementation of regional development , agriculture and rural development , social and employment policies and the development of the digital economy and society , also in line with the flagship initiative digital agenda for the western balkans __________________ 17 european pillar of social rights solemnly proclaimed by the european parliament , the council and the commission at the gothenburg social summit for fair jobs and growth , gothenburg 17 november 2017 .


### strengthening the union and its partners ' capacity to prevent conflict , build peace and address pre - and post - crisis including through early warning and conflict - sensitive risk analysis ; promoting people to people networking , reconciliation , peace - building and confidence - building measures , supporting capacity building in support of security and development actions . ### strengthening the union and its partners ' capacity to prevent conflict , build peace and stability , and address pre - and post - crisis including through early warning and conflict - sensitive risk analysis ; promoting people to people networking , reconciliation and good neighbourly relations , peace - building and confidence - building measures , supporting capacity building in support of security and development actions ; contributing to the defence and cyber defence of the beneficiaries listed in annex i ; strengthening the capabilities of strategic communication to foster systematic uncovering of disinformation .


### strengthening the capacities of civil society organisations and social partners ' organisations , including professional associations , in beneficiaries listed in annex i and encouraging networking at all levels among union - based organisations and those of beneficiaries listed in annex i , enabling them to engage in an effective dialogue with public and private actors . ### strengthening the capacities of civil society organisations and social partners ' organisations , including professional associations , in beneficiaries and encouraging networking at all levels among union - based organisations and those of beneficiaries , enabling them to engage in an effective dialogue with public and private actors . assistance shall endeavour to be accessible to a variety of organisations in beneficiaries that is as wide as possible .


### ‘ terminal’ means any facility with a minimum area of 600m2 , which provides a parking place that is used by coaches and buses for the setting down or picking up of passengers ; ### ‘ terminal’ means an authorised facility which provides a parking place that is used by coaches and buses for the setting down or picking up of passengers , and which has the following facilities : a check - in desk , a waiting room and a ticket office ;


### the commission is empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 26 establishing the procedure and criteria to be followed for the application of this article . ' ; ### the commission is empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 26 establishing the procedure and criteria to be followed for the application of this article , in particular in carrying out the economic analysis . ' ;


### the authorising authority shall take a decision on the application within two months of the date of submission of the application by the carrier . this may be extended to four months where an analysis is requested in accordance with article 8c . ### the authorising authority shall take a decision on the application within one month of the date of submission of the application by the carrier . this may be extended to three months where an analysis is requested in accordance with article 8c .


### authorisation for both national and international regular services should be subject to an authorisation procedure . authorisation should be granted , unless there are specific grounds for refusal attributable to the applicant , or the service would compromise the economic equilibrium of a public service contract . a distance threshold should be introduced to ensure that commercial regular service operations do not compromise the economic equilibrium of existing public service contracts . in the case of routes already served by more than one public service contract , it should be possible to increase that threshold . ### authorisation for both national and international regular services should be subject to an authorisation procedure . authorisation should be granted , unless there are specific grounds for refusal attributable to the applicant , or the service would conflict with the exclusive rights under an existing or planned public service contract .


### the authorising authority shall forward to the competent authorities of all member states in whose territories passengers are picked up or set down , as well as to the competent authorities of member states whose territories are crossed without passengers being picked up or set down , a copy of the application , together with copies of any other relevant documentation , and its assessment , for information . ### the authorising authority shall forward to the competent authorities of all member states in whose territories passengers are picked up or set down , as well as to the competent authorities of member states whose territories are crossed without passengers being picked up or set down , a copy of the application , together with copies of any other relevant documentation , and its assessment , within two weeks of receipt of the application , with a request for their agreement .


### a regulatory body establishes on the basis of an objective economic analysis that the service would compromise the economic equilibrium of a public service contract . ### a regulatory body establishes on the basis of an objective economic analysis that the service would compromise the economic equilibrium of a public service contract . that analysis shall assess the relevant structural and geographical characteristics of the market and the network concerned , and account shall also be taken of whether the new service brings better quality services or more value for money .


### requests for access may be refused only on the grounds of lack of capacity . ### requests for access may be refused only on the grounds of lack of capacity , security concerns , repeated failure to pay fees or violations of the house rules .


### the decision of the regulatory body on the appeal shall be binding . the regulatory body shall be able to enforce it by means of penalties which are effective , proportionate and dissuasive ### the decision of the national competent authority on the appeal shall be binding . the national competent authority shall be able to enforce it by means of penalties which are effective , proportionate and dissuasive


### authorisations shall be issued in agreement with the competent authorities of all the member states in whose territories passengers are picked up or set down and are carried over distances of less than 100 kilometres as the crow flies . the authorising authority shall send a copy of the application , together with copies of any other relevant documentation , within two weeks of receipt of the application to such competent authorities with a request for their agreement . at the same time , the authorising authority shall forward those documents to the competent authorities of other member states whose territories are crossed , for information . ### authorisations shall be issued in agreement with the competent authorities of all the member states in whose territories passengers are picked up or set down and are carried over distances of up to 70 kilometres as the crow flies or 120 kilometres journey distance ; . the authorising authority shall send a copy of the application , together with copies of any other relevant documentation , within two weeks of receipt of the application to such competent authorities with a request for their agreement . at the same time , the authorising authority shall forward those documents to the competent authorities of other member states whose territories are crossed , for information .


### to ensure a coherent framework for the inter - urban carriage of passengers by regular coach and bus services throughout the union , regulation no 1073 / 2009 should apply to all inter - urban carriage by regular services . the scope of that regulation should therefore be extended . ### to ensure a coherent legislation framework of the european union is paramount in order to prevent legal ambiguity . the scope of that regulation should therefore be consistent with the provisions of a regulation no1370 / 2007 .


### this regulation shall apply to national road passenger services for hire or reward operated by a non - resident carrier as provided for in chapter v . ” ; ### this regulation shall apply to national road passenger services for hire or reward operated by a non - resident carrier as provided for in chapter v , while commercial road passenger services in urban or suburban areas or agglomerations shall be excluded from the scope thereof . ” ;


### member states shall ensure that decisions taken by the regulatory body are subject to judicial review . that review may have suspensive effect only when the immediate effect of the regulatory body’s decision may cause irretrievable or manifestly excessive damages for the appellant . this provision is without prejudice to the powers of the court hearing the appeal as conferred by constitutional law of the member state concerned . ### member states shall ensure that decisions taken by the national competent authority are subject to judicial review . that review may have suspensive effect only when the immediate effect of national competent authority’s decision may cause irretrievable or manifestly excessive damages for the appellant . this provision is without prejudice to the powers of the court hearing the appeal as conferred by constitutional law of the member state concerned .


### administrative formalities should be reduced as much as possible without abandoning the controls and penalties that guarantee the correct application and effective enforcement of regulation no 1073 / 2009 . the journey form constitutes an unnecessary administrative burden and should therefore be abolished . ### administrative formalities should be reduced as much as possible without abandoning the controls and penalties that guarantee the correct application and effective enforcement of regulation no 1073 / 2009 .


### regular services in the form of cabotage operations should be conditional on the possession of a community licence . in order to facilitate effective controls of those services by enforcement authorities , the rules regarding the issuing of community licences should be clarified . ### the operation of regular services in the form of cabotage operations is conditional on the possession of a community licence and the use of a smart tachograph in accordance with chapter ii of regulation no 165 / 2014 of the european parliament and of the council . in order to facilitate effective controls of those services by enforcement authorities , the rules regarding the issuing of community licences should be clarified and the imi module developed for the sending of posting declarations and electronic applications , enabling the inspectors carrying out the roadside checks to have direct real - time access to data and information contained in erru and imi and so as to ensure that social contributions are actually paid for posted bus drivers .


### ‘ viable alternative’ means another terminal which is economically acceptable to the carrier , and allows it to operate the passenger service concerned . ; ### ‘ viable alternative’ means another terminal which is economically acceptable to the carrier , provides comparable infrastructure , allows access to other forms of public transport and allows the carrier to operate the passenger service concerned . ;


### requests for access may be refused only on the grounds of lack of capacity . ### requests for access may be refused on the grounds of lack of capacity and national provisions .


### authorisation procedure for the international carriage of passengers over a distance of less than 100 kilometres as the crow flies ### authorisation procedure for the international carriage of passengers over a distance of less than 100 kilometres journey distance


### regular services performed in accordance with this regulation . ; ### regular services , performed by a carrier not resident in the host member state provided that a stay in that member state does not exceed 48 hours after the entry into the territory of the member state , in the course of a regular international service in accordance with this regulation with the exception of transport services meeting the needs of an urban centre or conurbation , or transport needs between it and the surrounding areas . cabotage operations shall not be performed independently of such international service .


### after having consulted the member states of the competent authorities which disagreed , the commission shall , within four months from receipt of the communication from the authorising authority , take a decision . the decision shall take effect 30 days after its notification to the member states concerned . ### after having consulted the member states of the competent authorities which disagreed , the commission shall , within two months from receipt of the communication from the authorising authority , take a decision . the decision shall take effect 30 days after its notification to the member states concerned .


### regulatory body ### national competent authority


### the regulatory body may be responsible for other regulated sectors . ### the regulatory body may also be an existing body which is responsible for other regulated sectors .


### an independent and impartial regulatory body should be designated in each member state to ensure the proper functioning of the road passenger transport market . that body may also be responsible for other regulated sectors such as rail , energy or telecommunications . ### each member state shall designate a national competent authority to ensure the proper functioning of the road passenger transport market . that body may also be responsible for other regulated sectors such as rail , energy or telecommunications .


### member states may limit the right of access to the international and national market for regular services if the proposed regular service carries passengers over distances of less than 100 kilometres as the crow flies and if the service would compromise the economic equilibrium of a public service contract . ### member states may limit the right of access to the international and national market for regular bus and coach services if the proposed regular service meets at least one of the following criteria : it occurs in an urban or suburban centre or conurbation , or meets the transport needs between it and the surrounding areas ; it has the same public passenger transport function as that of a public service operator to which a competent authority has granted an exclusive right to operate a particular route or network or in a particular area , in return for the discharge of public service obligations within the framework of a public service contract ; carries passengers over distances of less than 100 kilometres as the crow flies and if the service would compromise the economic equilibrium of a public service contract .


### for certain recovered wastes within the meaning of directive 2008 / 98 / ec of the european parliament and of the council20 , a market demand for their use as fertilising products has been identified . furthermore , certain requirements are necessary for the waste used as input in the recovery operation and for the treatment processes and techniques , as well as for fertilising products resulting from the recovery operation , in order to ensure that the use of those products does not lead to overall adverse environmental or human health impacts . for ce marked fertilising products , those requirements should be laid down in this regulation . therefore , as of the moment of compliance with all the requirements of this regulation , such products should cease to be regarded as waste within the meaning of directive 2008 / 98 / ec . _________________ 20 directive 2008 / 98 / ec of the european parliament and of the council on waste and repealing certain directives . ### for certain recovered wastes within the meaning of directive 2008 / 98 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 19 november 2008 on waste and repealing certain directives , a market demand for their use as fertilising products has been identified . furthermore , certain requirements are necessary for the waste used as input in the recovery operation and for the treatment processes and techniques , as well as for fertilising products resulting from the recovery operation , in order to ensure that the use of those products does not lead to overall adverse environmental or human health impacts . for ce marked fertilising products , those requirements should be laid down in this regulation . therefore , as of the moment of compliance with all the requirements of this regulation , such products should cease to be regarded as waste within the meaning of directive 2008 / 98 / ec .


### –1 , 5% by mass of total nitrogen , ### –3% by mass of total nitrogen ,


### promising technical progress is being made in the field of recycling of waste , such as phosphorus recycling from sewage sludge , and fertilising product production from animal by - products , such as biochar . it should be possible for products containing or consisting of such materials to access the internal market without unnecessary delay when the manufacturing processes have been scientifically analysed and process requirements have been established at union level . for that purpose , 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 in respect of defining larger or additional categories of ce marked fertilising products or component materials eligible for use in the production of such products . for animal by - products , component material categories should be expanded or added only to the extent an end point in the manufacturing chain has been determined in accordance with the procedures laid down in regulation no 1069 / 2009 , since animal by - products for which no such end point has been determined are in any event excluded from the scope of this regulation . ### promising technical progress is being made in the field of recycling of waste , such as phosphorus recycling from sewage sludge , in particular struvite , fertilising product production from animal by - products , such as biochar and phosphorus recovery after incineration , in particular from ash - based products , and considering that such products are already authorised in several member states under national law . it should be possible for products containing or consisting of such materials to access the internal market without undue delay when the manufacturing processes have been scientifically analysed and process requirements have been established at union level . for that purpose , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 tfeu should be delegated to the commission in respect of defining larger or additional categories of ce marked fertilising products or component materials eligible for use in the production of such products . in particular , a delegated act adding struvite , biochar and ash - based products to the categories of component materials should be adopted without undue delay after the entry into force of this regulation . for animal by - products , component material categories should be expanded or added only to the extent an end point in the manufacturing chain has been determined in accordance with the procedures laid down in regulation no 1069 / 2009 .


### an agronomic additive shall be a ce marked fertilising product intended to be added to a product providing plants with nutrient , with the intention to improve that product ' s nutrient release patterns . ### an agronomic additive shall be a ce marked fertilising product intended to be added to a product , which has a proven effect on the transformation or plant - availability of different forms of mineral or mineralized nutrients , or both , or which is to be added to the soil with the intention to improve that nutrient uptake by plants or to reduce nutrient losses .


### the blending shall not change the nature of each component fertilising product ### the blending shall not change the function of each component fertilising product


### - cadmium 3 mg / kg dry matter , ### - cadmium 1 , 5 mg / kg dry matter ,


### importers shall ensure that the ce marked fertilising product is labelled in accordance with annex iii in a language which can be easily understood by end - users , as determined by the member state concerned . ### importers shall ensure that the ce marked fertilising product is labelled in accordance with annex iii or , where the ce marked fertilising product is supplied without packaging , that the required information is provided in a document accompanying the ce fertilising product . the information required under annex iii shall be in a language which can be easily understood by end - users , as determined by the member state concerned .


### as of [ publications office , please insert the date occurring three years after the date of application of this regulation ] , the following criterion shall be complied with : the polymer shall be capable of undergoing physical , biological decomposition , such that most of it ultimately decomposes into carbon dioxide , biomass and water . it shall have at least 90 % of the organic carbon converted into co2 in maximum 24 months , in a biodegradability test as specified points - below . the test shall be conducted at 25&#176 ; c &#177 ; 2&#176 ; c . the test shall be conducted in accordance with a method for determining the ultimate aerobic biodegradability of plastic materials in soils by measuring oxygen demand or the amount of carbon dioxide evolved . a micro - crystalline cellulose powder with the same dimension as the test material shall be used as a reference material in the test . prior to the test , the test material shall not be subject to conditions or procedures designed to accelerate the degradation of the film , such as exposure to heat or light . ### as of [ publications office , please insert the date occurring five years after the date of application of this regulation ] , the commission shall adopt delegated acts , pursuant to article 42 of this regulation , introducing : a standard for the biodegradability by setting a timeframe in which at least 90 % of the organic carbon is converted into co2 , after the claimed release time of the polymer has been fulfilled , and a biodegradability test that complies with the following criterion : the polymer is capable of undergoing physical , biological decomposition , such that most of it ultimately decomposes into carbon dioxide , biomass and water .


### - 5% by mass of total sulphur trioxide , or ### - 5% by mass of total sulphur trioxide ,


### the end point in the manufacturing chain should be determined for each relevant component material containing animal by - products in accordance with the procedures laid down in regulation no 1069 / 2009 . where a manufacturing process regulated under this regulation starts already before that end point has been reached , the process requirements of both regulation no 1069 / 2009 and this regulation should apply cumulatively to ce marked fertilising products , which means application of the stricter requirement in case both regulations regulate the same parameter . ### for each component material category which includes derived products within the meaning of regulation no 1069 / 2009 , the end point in the manufacturing chain should be determined for each relevant component material containing animal by - products in accordance with the procedures laid down in that regulation . where such an end point is reached before the ce marked fertilising product is placed on the market but after the manufacturing process regulated under this regulation has started , the process requirements of both regulation no 1069 / 2009 and this regulation should apply cumulatively to ce marked fertilising products , which means application of the stricter requirement in case both regulations regulate the same parameter .


### the ce marking shall be affixed visibly , legibly and indelibly to the accompanying documents and , where the ce marked fertilising product is supplied in a packaged form , to the packaging . ### the ce marking shall be affixed visibly , legibly and indelibly to the packaging of the ce marked fertilising product or , where the ce marked fertilising product is supplied without packaging , to the documents accompanying the ce marked fertilising product .


### the conditions for making fertilisers available on the internal market have been partially harmonised through regulation no 2003 / 2003 of the european parliament and of the council15 , which almost exclusively covers fertilisers from mined or chemically produced , inorganic materials . there is also a need to make use of recycled or organic materials for fertilising purposes . harmonised conditions for making fertilisers made from such recycled or organic materials available on the entire internal market should be established in order to provide an important incentive for their further use . the scope of the harmonisation should therefore be extended in order to include recycled and organic materials . __________________ 15 regulation no 2003 / 2003 of the european parliament and of the council of 13 october 2003 relating to fertilisers . ### the conditions for making fertilisers available on the internal market have been partially harmonised through regulation no 2003 / 2003 of the european parliament and of the council15 , which almost exclusively covers fertilisers from mined or chemically produced , mineral materials . there is also a need to make use of recycled or organic materials for fertilising purposes . harmonised conditions for making fertilisers made from such recycled or organic materials available on the entire internal market should be established in order to provide an important incentive for their further use . the scope of the harmonisation should therefore be extended in order to include recycled and organic materials . __________________ 15 regulation no 2003 / 2003 of the european parliament and of the council of 13 october 2003 relating to fertilisers .


### the report shall be submitted at least five days in advance of placing those products on the market . ### the report shall be submitted at least five days in advance of placing those products on the market . list of competent authorities of member states shall be provided in annex va .


### a ce marked fertilising product that has undergone a recovery operation and complies with the requirements laid down in this regulation shall be considered to comply with the conditions laid down in article 6 of directive 2008 / 98 / ec and shall , therefore , be considered as having ceased to be waste . ### where a material that was waste has undergone a recovery operation in accordance with this regulation and a compliant ce marked fertilising product contains or consists of that material , the material shall be considered to comply with the conditions laid down in article 6 of directive 2008 / 98 / ec and shall , therefore , be considered as having ceased to be waste from the moment the union declaration of conformity is drawn up .