### 16. calls on the commission to step up efforts to ensure the proper collection of end-of-life products with crms instead of having them stockpiled in households or discarded by landfill disposal or incineration; ### 16. calls on the commission to step up efforts to ensure the proper collection of end-of-life products with crms instead of having them stockpiled in households or discarded by landfill disposal or incineration; requests that the commission require member states to accord more weight to recycling in the recovery plans.


### sourcing from the eu ### sustainable sourcing from the eu


### 18. notes that while smart product design , the reuse of materials , recycled sources and substitution can significantly reduce primary demand , responsible and sustainable sourcing is needed when supply cannot be met; ### 18. notes that while smart product design , the reuse of materials , recycled sources and substitution can significantly reduce primary demand and its potential should be fully exploited , responsible and sustainable crm sourcing with prior impact assessment is needed when crm supply cannot be met economically viable by the measures mentioned or would lead to lower quality products;


### 19. highlights that sourcing in the eu is subject to the highest environmental and social standards worldwide , provides thousands of highly qualified jobs and is an indispensable prerequisite of the green and digital transition; calls therefore on all actors to help build public acceptance for responsible crm sourcing projects in the eu; ### 19. highlights that sourcing in the eu is subject to the highest environmental and social standards worldwide , provides thousands of highly qualified jobs and is an indispensable prerequisite of the green and digital transition; calls therefore on all actors to help build both public acceptance for responsible crm sourcing projects in the eu and the awareness of the environmental footprints of the imports of crms from outside of the eu;


### 21. underlines the importance of maintaining and further developing expertise and skills in mining and processing technologies in the eu; ### 21. underlines the importance of maintaining and further developing expertise and skills in mining and processing technologies in the eu of both crms and by-products of their processing , as some of them can be used for production of highly advanced chemical products;


### 22. calls on the member states to improve the timeliness , predictability and transparency of the authorisation processes for sourcing projects; ### 22. notes that the member states have an important role to play in the issue of increasing the domestic sustainable supply of critical raw materials from primary and secondary sources. in order for the member states to comply with the commission's recommendations and implementation plan , action by the member states is required , therefore , calls on the member states to improve the timeliness , predictability and transparency of the authorisation processes for prospecting , sourcing and extraction projects;


### 22. calls on the member states to improve the timeliness , predictability and transparency of the authorisation processes for sourcing projects; ### 22. notes the important role of member states in increasing the sustainable domestic supply of crms from primary and secondary sources; calls on the member states to improve the timeliness , predictability and transparency of the authorisation processes for prospecting sourcing projects;


### 23. highlights that improved permitting predictability and efficiency , as well as prioritising key enablers such as competitive renewable energy supply , will help to unlock necessary investments; ### 23. highlights that improved permitting predictability and efficiency , as well as prioritising key enablers such as competitive renewable and low-carbon energy supply , will help to unlock necessary investments;


### diversification ### diversification and international cooperation


### 24. urges the commission to systematically and strategically build new crm partnerships and make this endeavour a horizontal task of its external and internal policies and to present the results in 2021; ### 24. urges the commission to foster relations with all existing crm supplier countries of the eu and to systematically and strategically build new crm partnerships , promote the participation of smes and make this endeavour a horizontal task of its external and internal policies and to present the results in 2021; welcomes , in this regard , the recently established eu-canada strategic partnership on raw materials;


### 25. welcomes the eu’s commitment to responsible and sustainable sourcing; stresses the need to underpin this commitment with concrete technical support , institution building and political dialogue with partner countries; stresses the need to mobilise more state and private actors to also subscribe to and implement sustainability standards; ### 25. welcomes the eu’s commitment to responsible and sustainable sourcing; stresses the need to underpin this commitment with concrete technical support , institution building and political dialogue with partner countries; stresses the need to mobilise more state and private actors to also subscribe to and implement sustainability standards; calls on the commission to consider the implementation of due diligence monitoring for imported crms;


### 25. welcomes the eu’s commitment to responsible and sustainable sourcing; stresses the need to underpin this commitment with concrete technical support , institution building and political dialogue with partner countries; stresses the need to mobilise more state and private actors to also subscribe to and implement sustainability standards; ### 25. welcomes the eu’s commitment to responsible and sustainable sourcing; stresses the need to underpin this commitment with concrete technical support , knowledge transfer , building of skills , institutions and legal frameworks and political dialogue with partner countries; stresses the need to mobilise more state and private actors to also subscribe to and implement sustainability standards;


### 27. reiterates its call in its resolution of 25 march 2021 on a new eu-africa strategy – a partnership for sustainable and inclusive development8 for fair and sustainable exploitation of crms in africa , which account for 49 % of eu imports from africa , and supports the commission in its endeavours to conclude new crm partnerships with african countries; ### 27. reiterates its call in its resolution of 25 march 2021 on a new eu-africa strategy – a partnership for sustainable and inclusive development8 for fair and sustainable exploitation of crms in africa; notes that raw materials account for 49% of eu imports from africa; further notes that south africa provides 71% of the eu's supply of platinum and an even higher share of iridium , rhodium and ruthenium , guinea provides 64% of the eu's supply for bauxite and the democratic republic of congo provides 68% of the eu's need for cobalt; supports the commission in its endeavours to conclude new crm partnerships with african countries;


### 1. recalls that the damage to the planet’s biodiversity is almost at the point of no return and that biodiversity loss is a driver of zoonotic pathogens such as covid-19; highlights the scientific evidence on the role of trade in biodiversity loss , in particular with regard to trade in minerals , biomass and certain agricultural commodities , and biodiversity loss due to land-use changes , invasive alien species , overexploitation of resources and pollution; ### 1. recalls that biodiversity is declining globally at unprecedented rates in human history , and the rate of species extinctions is accelerating , impacting human health worldwide in a variety of ways; highlights the scientific evidence on the role of unsustainable trade in biodiversity loss , in particular with regard to trade in minerals , biomass and certain agricultural commodities , and biodiversity loss due to global land-use changes , invasive alien species , overexploitation of resources and pollution; reminds of the targets agreed under the 2021-2027 mff for achieving a biodiversity spending level of 10% and a climate mainstreaming spending level of 30% , applying a robust , transparent and comprehensive methodology; notes the severe economic difficulties experienced by european businesses caused by the pandemic , therefore believes that the strategy needs to support both biodiversity and jobs , allowing businesses to recover by maintaining competitiveness and openness to trade , in line with the green deal’s objectives and the “do no significant harm“ principle , to ensure sustainable economic growth;


### 1. recalls that the damage to the planet’s biodiversity is almost at the point of no return and that biodiversity loss is a driver of zoonotic pathogens such as covid-19; highlights the scientific evidence on the role of trade in biodiversity loss , in particular with regard to trade in minerals , biomass and certain agricultural commodities , and biodiversity loss due to land-use changes , invasive alien species , overexploitation of resources and pollution; ### 1. recalls the importance of halting biodiversity loss on a global level , since global biodiversity loss is also one of the drivers of zoonotic pathogens; highlights the scientific evidence on the role of trade in global biodiversity loss , in particular with regard to the wildlife trade and to a certain extent trade in minerals , unsustainably sourced biomass and certain unsustainably produced agricultural commodities , and biodiversity loss due to the climate change , global land-use changes , invasive alien species , unsustainable exploitation of resources and pollution;


### 1. stresses that the degradation of ecosystems and the stress on them caused by climate change is leading to the extinction of species and the loss of biodiversity at unprecedented rates and is threatening the human rights of current and future generations , such as the rights to life , health , food , water and sanitation , as well as the rights of the most vulnerable people , including women and children , the rights of indigenous peoples and the rights of rural and natural-resource-dependent communities; also emphasises that the degradation of and stress on ecosystems is undermining progress towards the achievement of most of the 2030 sustainable development goals , in particular the objectives of ending poverty and hunger , achieving food security and ensuring healthy lives; ### 1. stresses that the degradation of ecosystems and the stress on them caused by climate change is leading to the extinction of species and the loss of biodiversity at unprecedented rates and is threatening the human rights of current and future generations , such as the rights to life , health , food , water and sanitation , as well as the rights of the most vulnerable people , including women , children and disabled people , the rights of indigenous peoples and the rights of rural and natural-resource-dependent communities; also emphasises that the degradation of and stress on ecosystems is undermining progress towards the achievement of most of the 2030 sustainable development goals , in particular the objectives of ending poverty and hunger , achieving food security and ensuring healthy lives;


### 2. stresses the importance of systematically including a biodiversity dimension to all sustainable impact assessments (sias) that follow a robust methodology , as suggested by available commission studies , and to consistently factor in biodiversity issues; requests that the commission secure adequate funding for carrying out such analyses on biodiversity; calls for sias to be launched as part of the scoping exercise phase on future free trade agreements and for them to be regularly updated as negotiations develop in order to adequately identify and address possible risks as early as possible , and to shape relevant bilateral commitments outlined in the negotiations; stresses the importance of systematically conducting regular ex post sustainable impact assessments to ensure consistency with the eu’s international commitments on biodiversity; calls for trade and sustainable development chapters to include time-bound roadmaps that provide verifiable commitments and objectives , which are to be regularly monitored by ex post sias and for the lowering of (non-)tariff barriers be made conditional thereon; invites the commission to update existing chapters accordingly; ### 2. stresses the importance of systematically including a biodiversity dimension to all sustainable impact assessments (sias)that follow a robust methodology , as suggested by available commission studies , and to consistently factor in biodiversity issues; calls for sias to be launched as part of the scoping exercise phase on future free trade agreements in order to adequately identify and address possible risks as early as possible , and to shape relevant bilateral commitments outlined in the negotiations; stresses the importance of systematically conducting ex post sustainable impact assessments to ensure consistency with the eu’s international commitments on biodiversity; calls on the commission to act when trading partners are not fulfilling their bilateral or multilateral commitments; in this regard , welcomes the appointment of a chief trade enforcement officer (cteo) , whose role is to lead efforts across the commission to strengthen implementation and enforcement , drawing on a range of available tools; underlines that eu trade and investment agreements facilitates a formalised dialogue with partners on all aspects of the european green deal , including biodiversity , sustainable food policy , pollution and the circular economy;


### 2. stresses the importance of systematically including a biodiversity dimension to all sustainable impact assessments (sias) that follow a robust methodology , as suggested by available commission studies , and to consistently factor in biodiversity issues; requests that the commission secure adequate funding for carrying out such analyses on biodiversity; calls for sias to be launched as part of the scoping exercise phase on future free trade agreements and for them to be regularly updated as negotiations develop in order to adequately identify and address possible risks as early as possible , and to shape relevant bilateral commitments outlined in the negotiations; stresses the importance of systematically conducting regular ex post sustainable impact assessments to ensure consistency with the eu’s international commitments on biodiversity; calls for trade and sustainable development chapters to include time-bound roadmaps that provide verifiable commitments and objectives , which are to be regularly monitored by ex post sias and for the lowering of (non-)tariff barriers be made conditional thereon; invites the commission to update existing chapters accordingly; ### 2. stresses the importance of systematically including a biodiversity dimension to all sustainable impact assessments (sias) that follow a robust methodology , as suggested by available commission studies , and to consistently factor it into all eu policies; requests that the commission secure adequate funding for carrying out such analyses on biodiversity and facilitate the deployment thereof for innovation in this field; calls for sustainability impact to be given more consideration as an important part of the scoping exercise phase on future free trade agreements and for them to be regularly updated as negotiations develop in order to adequately identify and address possible risks as early as possible , and to shape relevant bilateral commitments outlined in the negotiations; stresses the importance of systematically conducting regular ex post sustainable impact assessments to ensure consistency with the eu’s international commitments on biodiversity; calls for trade and sustainable development chapters to include time-bound roadmaps that provide verifiable commitments and objectives , which are to be regularly monitored by ex post sias;


### 2. underlines the need for urgent efforts to maintain biodiversity , in particular by taking effective actions to simultaneously protect human rights and conserve and sustainably use nature; calls in this regard for the development of a holistic and human-rights-based eu policy approach aimed at preventing biodiversity loss and degradation; also stresses the need to strengthen international environment and human rights law , environmental legislation and procedural environmental and human rights , in particular by improving access to information , public participation and access to justice , and by supporting the crucial role of local communities , indigenous peoples and environmental human rights defenders in maintaining biodiversity; ### 2. underlines the need for urgent efforts to maintain biodiversity , in particular by taking effective actions to simultaneously protect human rights and conserve and sustainably use nature; calls in this regard for the development of a holistic and human-rights-based eu policy approach aimed at preventing biodiversity loss and degradation; also stresses the need to strengthen international environment and human rights law , environmental legislation and procedural environmental and human rights , in particular by improving access to information , public participation and access to justice , and by supporting the crucial role of local communities , indigenous peoples , as defined by un at the declaration on the rights of indigenous peoples , and environmental human rights defenders in maintaining biodiversity;


### 4. welcomes the intention of the commission to develop a new european biodiversity governance framework and to follow an inclusive approach involving civil society in a compliance watchdog role to monitor the implementation of eu environmental legislation; also welcomes its aim to put forward a new initiative in 2021 on sustainable corporate governance to address human rights and environmental due diligence across economic value chains; insists in this regard on the need to elaborate eu legislation for mandatory human rights and environmental due diligence for eu companies , eu-domiciled companies and third-country companies operating in the internal market , imposing legal obligations to identify , cease , prevent and mitigate adverse impacts throughout their supply chains and establishing effective monitoring and enforcement mechanisms; ### 4. welcomes the intention of the commission to develop a new european biodiversity governance framework and to follow an inclusive approach involving civil society in a compliance watchdog role to monitor the implementation of eu environmental legislation; also welcomes its aim to put forward a new initiative in 2021 on sustainable corporate governance to address human rights and environmental due diligence across economic value chains;


### 4. welcomes the intention of the commission to develop a new european biodiversity governance framework and to follow an inclusive approach involving civil society in a compliance watchdog role to monitor the implementation of eu environmental legislation; also welcomes its aim to put forward a new initiative in 2021 on sustainable corporate governance to address human rights and environmental due diligence across economic value chains; insists in this regard on the need to elaborate eu legislation for mandatory human rights and environmental due diligence for eu companies , eu-domiciled companies and third-country companies operating in the internal market , imposing legal obligations to identify , cease , prevent and mitigate adverse impacts throughout their supply chains and establishing effective monitoring and enforcement mechanisms; ### 4. welcomes the intention of the commission to develop a new european biodiversity governance framework and to follow an inclusive approach involving civil society in a compliance watchdog role to monitor the implementation of eu environmental legislation; also welcomes its aim to put forward a new initiative in 2021 on sustainable corporate governance to address human rights and environmental due diligence across economic supply chain; insists in this regard on the need to elaborate eu legislation for mandatory human rights and environmental due diligence for eu companies , eu-domiciled companies and third-country companies operating in the internal market , imposing obligations to mitigate adverse impacts throughout their supply chains and establishing effective monitoring and enforcement mechanisms;


### 5. stresses that deforestation and land-grabbing by large corporations has an enormous impact on indigenous peoples and local communities; calls on businesses to recognise their rights and to ensure their effective participation in decision-making regarding their lands , in accordance with the united nations guiding principles on business and human rights and the organisation for economic co-operation and development’s due diligence guidance for responsible business conduct; ### 5. stresses that deforestation and land-grabbing by large corporations has an enormous impact on indigenous peoples and local communities; underlines the importance of sustainable forest management for the health , climate resilience and longevity of forest ecosystems and as the most effective framework tool for the preservation of the multifunctional role of forests including maintaining and improving forest biodiversity; calls on businesses to recognise their rights and to ensure their effective participation in decision-making regarding their lands , in accordance with the united nations guiding principles on business and human rights and the organisation for economic co-operation and development’s due diligence guidance for responsible business conduct;


### 6. calls on the commission to mainstream biodiversity as a human right in eu external action and promote ambitious biodiversity-related policies in international fora , in accordance with the european green deal and the new eu biodiversity strategy; also calls on the commission to deal with cooperation issues related to the conservation of biodiversity and respect for international environmental and human rights obligations in a common and consistent way , in particular through eu international comprehensive and sectoral agreements and political dialogues with partner countries; urges the commission , in this regard , to make the most of human rights and sustainable development impact assessments and related recommendations; also calls on the commission to draw up guidelines on the human right to a clean , healthy , safe and sustainable environment; ### 6. calls on the commission to mainstream biodiversity as a key goal in eu external action and promote ambitious biodiversity-related policies in international fora , in accordance with the european green deal and the new eu biodiversity strategy; also calls on the commission to deal with cooperation issues related to the conservation of biodiversity and respect for international environmental and human rights obligations in a common and consistent way , in particular through eu international comprehensive and sectoral agreements and political dialogues with partner countries following fair trade rules; urges the commission , in this regard , to make the most of sustainable development impact assessments and related recommendations; also calls on the commission to implement current directives and guidelines on the right to a clean , healthy , safe , accessible and sustainable environment;


### 6. calls on the commission to mainstream biodiversity as a human right in eu external action and promote ambitious biodiversity-related policies in international fora , in accordance with the european green deal and the new eu biodiversity strategy; also calls on the commission to deal with cooperation issues related to the conservation of biodiversity and respect for international environmental and human rights obligations in a common and consistent way , in particular through eu international comprehensive and sectoral agreements and political dialogues with partner countries; urges the commission , in this regard , to make the most of human rights and sustainable development impact assessments and related recommendations; also calls on the commission to draw up guidelines on the human right to a clean , healthy , safe and sustainable environment; ### 6. calls on the commission to mainstream biodiversity as a human right in eu external action and promote ambitious biodiversity-related policies in international fora , in accordance with the european green deal and the new eu biodiversity strategy; also calls on the commission to deal with cooperation issues related to the conservation of biodiversity , to the ecosystem integrity and respect for international environmental and human rights obligations in a common and consistent way , in particular through eu international comprehensive and sectoral agreements and political dialogues with partner countries; urges the commission , in this regard , to make the most of human rights and sustainable development impact assessments and related recommendations; also calls on the commission to draw up guidelines on the human right to a clean , healthy , safe and sustainable environment;


### 7. pays tribute to defenders of environmental human rights and land rights , local community representatives , lawyers and journalists standing up to protect natural resources , and strongly condemns the killings of such people and violent acts against them; calls on the commission and the european external action service to continue to systematically take up cases of defenders of environmental human rights and land rights facing threats of violence with the countries concerned; urges the commission to define a specific protection and support strategy for local communities and defenders of environmental human rights and land rights; also calls for enhanced support for civil society organisations working to protect the environment and biodiversity , in particular through the establishment of partnerships and the building up of capacity to defend the rights of indigenous peoples; ### 7. pays tribute to defenders of environmental human rights and land rights , local community representatives , lawyers and journalists standing up to protect natural resources , and condemns the acts against them; calls on the commission and the european external action service to continue to systematically take up cases of defenders of environmental human rights and land rights facing threats of violence with the countries concerned; urges the commission to suggest a legal framework and support strategy for local communities and defenders of environmental human rights and land rights; also calls for enhanced support for civil society organisations working to protect the environment and biodiversity , in particular through the establishment of partnerships and the building up of capacity to defend the rights of indigenous peoples as defined by un at the declaration on the rights of indigenous peoples;


### 8. calls on the representatives of the eu and the member states who will participate in the conference of the parties to the convention on biological diversity (cop 15) in may 2021 in kunming , china , to advocate for biodiversity and ensure that global action on biodiversity and related objectives are linked to respect for the rights to life , health , food and water , as well as the human rights of women and children; strongly supports , in this regard , the integration of human rights in the cop 15 post-2020 global biodiversity framework and calls for the establishment of nature conservation objectives at global and national level , building on the right to a clean , healthy , safe and sustainable environment; ### 8. calls on the representatives of the eu and the member states who will participate in the conference of the parties to the convention on biological diversity (cop 15) in may 2021 in kunming , china , to advocate for biodiversity and ensure that global action on biodiversity and related objectives are linked to respect for the rights to life , health , food and water , as well as the human rights of women , children and disabled people; strongly supports , in this regard , the integration of human rights in the cop 15 post-2020 global biodiversity framework and calls for the establishment of nature conservation objectives at global and national level , building on the right to a clean , healthy , safe and sustainable environment;


### 9. welcomes the commitment of the eu heads of state and governments under the ‘leaders’ pledge for nature’ to end environmental crimes , and with this aim , to ensure effective and dissuasive legal frameworks; urges , in this regard , the eu and the member states to redouble their efforts to honour their obligations relating to environmental crimes and to promote an international approach to environmental criminal law; calls for the setting up of legal frameworks to ensure access to effective remedies in cases of loss and degradation of biodiversity; encourages the eu and the member states to pursue new initiatives in order to make ‘ecocide’ a crime recognised under the rome statute of the international criminal court; recommends that the scope of the serious human rights violations covered by the eu global human rights sanctions regime be extended to include environmental crimes. ### 9. welcomes the commitment of the eu heads of state and governments under the ‘leaders’ pledge for nature’ to end environmental crimes , and with this aim , to ensure effective and dissuasive legal frameworks; urges , in this regard , the eu and the member states to redouble their efforts to honour their obligations relating to environmental crimes and to promote an international approach to such crimes; calls for the setting up of legal frameworks to ensure access to effective remedies in cases of loss and degradation of biodiversity;


### 9. welcomes the commitment of the eu heads of state and governments under the ‘leaders’ pledge for nature’ to end environmental crimes , and with this aim , to ensure effective and dissuasive legal frameworks; urges , in this regard , the eu and the member states to redouble their efforts to honour their obligations relating to environmental crimes and to promote an international approach to environmental criminal law; calls for the setting up of legal frameworks to ensure access to effective remedies in cases of loss and degradation of biodiversity; encourages the eu and the member states to pursue new initiatives in order to make ‘ecocide’ a crime recognised under the rome statute of the international criminal court; recommends that the scope of the serious human rights violations covered by the eu global human rights sanctions regime be extended to include environmental crimes. ### 9. welcomes the commitment of the eu heads of state and governments under the ‘leaders’ pledge for nature’ to end environmental crimes , and with this aim , to ensure effective and dissuasive legal frameworks; urges , in this regard , the eu and the member states to redouble their efforts to honour their obligations relating to environmental crimes and to promote an international approach to environmental criminal law; calls for the setting up of legal frameworks to ensure access to effective remedies in cases of loss and degradation of biodiversity;


### 1. welcomes the mainstreaming of the european green deal into the communication on the trade policy review (tpr) and calls for a concrete action plan to make this ambition a reality; ### 1. welcomes the communication on the trade policy review (tpr) and calls for a concrete action plan for an assertive trade policy geared towards multilateralism , resilience , and sustainability;


### 1. welcomes the mainstreaming of the european green deal into the communication on the trade policy review (tpr) and calls for a concrete action plan to make this ambition a reality; ### 1. welcomes the communication on the trade policy review (tpr) and calls for a concrete action plan to further multilateral , rule-based trade;


### 1. notes that covid-19 has caused an unprecedented health , economic , social and humanitarian crisis on a global scale , with asymmetric effects for least developed countries (ldcs); calls for the eu to tailor its commitments and approach to developing countries and ldcs accordingly; ### 1. notes that covid-19 has caused an unprecedented health , economic , social and humanitarian crisis on a global scale , with asymmetric effects for least developed countries (ldcs) , which were hit the hardest by the trade downturn triggered by the pandemic in a number of sectors and even more so in services , including tourism; opines that , consequently , ldcs are more in need of support to revive their economies and trade than other countries and that the eu has a responsibility to act as a global player; calls for the eu to respect its commitments to developing partner countries and ldcs , and to adopt a tailored approach that takes into account their particular circumstances;


### 2. welcomes the incorporation of the paris agreement as an essential element in all trade , investment and partnership agreements; stresses that ratification of the international labour organization (ilo) core conventions and respect for human rights are requirements for concluding ftas; asks for ambitious chapters on gender and on small and medium-sized enterprises (smes) to be included in all trade agreements; ### 2. welcomes that the eu will propose the respect of the paris agreement to be considered as an essential element in future trade and investment agreements; reminds the commission that the respect and implementation of ilo core conventions and respect for human rights are commitments of its recent trade agreements; asks for ambitious chapters on digital trade , gender , and on small and medium-sized enterprises (smes) to be included in new trade agreements;


### 2. welcomes the incorporation of the paris agreement as an essential element in all trade , investment and partnership agreements; stresses that ratification of the international labour organization (ilo) core conventions and respect for human rights are requirements for concluding ftas; asks for ambitious chapters on gender and on small and medium-sized enterprises (smes) to be included in all trade agreements; ### 2. welcomes that the eu acknowledges the commitments of the paris agreement in all trade , investment and partnership agreements; stresses that the international labour organization (ilo) core conventions and respect for human rights are commitments reflected in all recently concluded ftas; asks for ambitious chapters on small and medium-sized enterprises (smes) to be included in all future trade agreements;


### 2. welcomes the incorporation of the paris agreement as an essential element in all trade , investment and partnership agreements; stresses that ratification of the international labour organization (ilo) core conventions and respect for human rights are requirements for concluding ftas; asks for ambitious chapters on gender and on small and medium-sized enterprises (smes) to be included in all trade agreements; ### 2. welcomes the incorporation of the paris agreement as an essential element in all trade , investment and partnership agreements; stresses that ratification of the international labour organization (ilo) core conventions and respect for human rights are important considerations for concluding ftas; asks for ambitious chapters on gender and on small and medium-sized enterprises (smes) to be included in all trade agreements;


### 2. calls on the commission to mount an assertive and coordinated international trade policy response geared towards a multilateral , resilient and sustainable recovery in developing countries; calls on the commission to deepen eu-africa trade relations through economic partnership agreements , while making the most of the eu’s aid for trade strategy; ### 2. highlights that the covid-19 pandemic is a catalyst of change in the global order; stresses the fundamental importance of strengthening the eu’s partnerships with developing countries and calls on the commission to mount an assertive and coordinated international trade policy response geared towards a multilateral , resilient and sustainable recovery in developing countries; calls on the commission to deepen eu-africa trade relations through economic partnership agreements , while making the most of the eu’s aid for trade strategy; strongly welcomes the entry into force of the african continental free trade area(afcfta) as an instrument to improve africa’s access to global markets;


### 2. calls on the commission to mount an assertive and coordinated international trade policy response geared towards a multilateral , resilient and sustainable recovery in developing countries; calls on the commission to deepen eu-africa trade relations through economic partnership agreements , while making the most of the eu’s aid for trade strategy; ### 2. calls on the commission to mount an assertive and coordinated international trade policy response geared towards a multilateral , resilient and sustainable recovery in developing countries; calls on the commission to deepen eu-africa trade relations through economic partnership agreements , while making the most of the eu’s aid for trade strategy and actively accompany africa's regional , economic and political integration through the realization of the african continental free trade area , and by supporting the african agenda 2063;


### 3. underlines that the post-covid-19 recovery is a unique opportunity to set the agenda for sustainable growth; calls on the commission , therefore , to present its review of the 15-point action plan on tsd chapters without delay; expects the review to address the enforceability of tsd commitments as a matter of urgency , as it is not currently included; recalls , in this regard , the non-paper from the netherlands and france on trade , social economic effects and sustainable development11 ; suggests that , as a minimum , recent advances in enforceability should be applied to eu trade policy , namely the ability to tackle any non-compliance by partners through unilateral sanctions , including the introduction of tariffs or quotas on certain products or the cross-suspension of other parts of an agreement; ### 3. underlines that the post-covid-19 recovery is a unique opportunity to enhance sustainable growth; calls on the commission , therefore , to present its review of the 15-point action plan on tsd chapters in a timely manner;


### 3. underlines that the post-covid-19 recovery is a unique opportunity to set the agenda for sustainable growth; calls on the commission , therefore , to present its review of the 15-point action plan on tsd chapters without delay; expects the review to address the enforceability of tsd commitments as a matter of urgency , as it is not currently included; recalls , in this regard , the non-paper from the netherlands and france on trade , social economic effects and sustainable development11 ; suggests that , as a minimum , recent advances in enforceability should be applied to eu trade policy , namely the ability to tackle any non-compliance by partners through unilateral sanctions , including the introduction of tariffs or quotas on certain products or the cross-suspension of other parts of an agreement; ### 3. underlines that the post-covid-19 recovery is a unique opportunity to promote sustainable growth; calls on the commission , therefore , to present its review of the 15-point action plan on tsd chapters in 2021 and expects the review to consider the effective implementation and enforcement in trade agreements; recalls , in this regard , the non-paper from the netherlands and france on trade , social economic effects and sustainable development11 ;


### 3. encourages the eu and the member states to help developing countries and regions to keep their borders open and to set up ‘green corridor mechanisms’ to allow the unhindered flow of essential goods , agri-food products and humanitarian aid across borders; ### 3. recalls that against a backdrop of already-fragile economic conditions , the pandemic has had massive consequences causing international trade to plunge and creating a plethora of disruptions of an unprecedented scale; hence , as a lesson learnt from the pandemic in particular also in europe , it is indispensable to keep borders open; encourages the eu and the member states to share their experience and assist developing countries and regions to keep their borders open and to set up ‘green corridor mechanisms’ , to allow as much as possible , the unhindered flow of essential goods (especially medical supplies and personal protective equipment) , agri-food products and humanitarian aid across borders in emergency situations; stresses the importance of maintaining an open , multilateral trading system allowing for transparency about trade-related policy intentions and actions , and limiting unnecessary trade barriers and export restrictions;


### 4. invites the commission to adapt its trade policy in order to help developing countries to boost the resilience and diversification of their value chains at a global , regional and local level , including reshoring and nearshoring; ### 4. invites the commission to adapt its trade policy in order to help developing partner countries to boost the resilience and diversification of their value chains at a global , regional and local level , including reshoring and nearshoring , in order to be better prepared for future systemic shocks;


### 5. welcomes the commitment shown by the eu and its member states in tackling the wider impact of covid-19 , in particular through the coronavirus global response and covax initiatives; calls on the commission to coordinate with the world health organization and the african union in order to scale up vaccine production for developing countries; ### 5. highlights that public health problems caused by covid-19 can only properly and effectively be managed anywhere in the world as long as measures including vaccines are accessible worldwide; welcomes the commitment shown by the eu and its member states , acting together as ‘team europe’ , in tackling the wider impact of covid-19 on developing societies and economies , in particular through the coronavirus global response and covax initiatives; recalls that with the covax initiative only being able to cover vaccinations for 20% of the world population , a united initiative of industrialised , open , democratic countries in the form of a vaccine alliance is needed; reminds the commission of the interconnected nature of the global economic recovery and that , according to the world health organisation (who) vaccine delays in poorer nations are likely to threaten the european union’s own recovery because of continued disruptions to international trade and global supply chains; calls on the commission to coordinate closely with the world health organization and the african union in building and scaling up vaccine production for developing countries to overcome the pandemic , while preventing the emergence of vaccine-resistant variants;


### 6. urges the commission to identify the appropriate measures to ensure that this pandemic does not precipitate a food crisis in the developing world; supports actions to facilitate trade with a view to promoting food safety and sanitary and phytosanitary measures in response to covid-19; ### 6. deplores that export restrictions and trade barriers have disrupted agri-food markets and supply chains worldwide , severely impacting developing countries; urges the commission to identify the appropriate measures to ensure that this pandemic does not precipitate a food crisis in the developing world; supports actions to facilitate trade with a view to promoting food safety and sanitary and phytosanitary measures in response to covid-19;


### 7. calls on the commission to collaborate with developing partner countries in order to facilitate digital infrastructure , establish policy strategies and harmonise regulatory frameworks for e-commerce. ### 7. considers that covid-19 has accelerated the shift towards digitalisation , which presents opportunities to facilitate international trade , to reduce face to face processes and allow for efficient logistics and strategic stockpiling with enormous potential , in particular for developing partner countries; underlines that developing countries and ldcs trail behind in the digital economy and calls on the commission to collaborate with developing partner countries in order to facilitate digital infrastructure , establish policy strategies and harmonise regulatory frameworks for sustainable e-commerce , to support skills training and to modernize trade and customs management tools , electronic payment and automated procedures;


### 1. stresses the need to ensure stable and adequate funding for european research programmes on artificial intelligence (ai) and for the process of building infrastructure for intelligent transportation systems (its) , including the development of the 5g network; ### 1. stresses the need to ensure stable and adequate funding for european research programmes on artificial intelligence (ai) and for the process of building infrastructure for intelligent transportation systems (its) , including the development of the 5g network; stresses that a 5g network will offer completely new job opportunities for the transport sector and will mean a significant increase in productivity for european economies;


### 1. stresses the need to build a trustworthy and secure framework for the application of ai; believes that the application of ai within the union and the use of eu citizens’ personal data that it entails should be enshrined in our values and fundamental rights as recognised by the eu charter of fundamental rights , such as human dignity and privacy protection; ### 1. stresses the need to build a trustworthy and secure framework for the application of ai , while building on existing legislation; believes that the application of ai within the union and the associated use of eu citizens’ personal data should respect our values and fundamental rights as recognised by the eu charter of fundamental rights , such as human dignity , privacy , data protection , and security;


### 1. recalls that women account for 30 % of the technology workforce and 17 % of ict specialists in europe , and that the eu economy would be boosted by eur 16 billion a year if women technology graduates followed through to digital jobs at the same rate as men; ### 1. recalls that women account for 30 % of the technology workforce and 17 % of ict specialists in europe , and that the eu economy would be boosted by eur 16 billion a year if women technology graduates followed through to digital jobs at the same rate as men , and that promoting gender equality within the digital single market will contribute bridging the digital gender divide;


### 1. highlights that european leadership can be a reality; notes that a second wave of digitalisation lies ahead; underlines that a common eu approach can make europe the most innovative region in the world by 2030; ### 1. highlights that european leadership can be a reality; establishes the ambition to make the eu a world leader in digital innovation and artificial intelligence (ai) development; notes that a second wave of digitalisation lies ahead; underlines that a common eu approach can make europe the most innovative region in the world by 2030; highlights that digital transformation encompasses all policy areas and is boundless by nature; emphasizes that ai deployment by european industries is key to economic growth and innovations , enhances security and resilience , and strengthens the geopolitical and strategic relevance of the eu;


### 2. strongly supports multilateral solutions for digital trade rules and calls for the plurilateral wto negotiations on e-commerce to be concluded; regrets that , in the absence of global rules , eu companies are faced with non-tariff barriers in digital trade such as unjustified data localisation and mandatory technology transfer requirements; supports making the wto moratorium on electronic transmissions permanent; ### 2. strongly supports multilateral solutions for digital trade rules and calls for the plurilateral wto negotiations on e-commerce to be concluded; the realization of the free flow of data with trust is also crucial; in doing so , bilateral/regional regulatory cooperation , such as promoting mutual recognition , could complement the future wto scheme , taking into account the level of personal data protection under each domestic law; regrets that , in the absence of global rules , eu companies are faced with non-tariff barriers in digital trade such as unjustified data localisation and mandatory technology transfer requirements; supports making the wto moratorium on electronic transmissions permanent;


### 2. highlights that gender equality is a core principle of the european union and should be reflected in all eu policies; recalls that women’s participation in the digital economy is crucial to shaping a flourishing digital society and to boosting the eu’s digital internal market; ### 2. highlights that gender equality is a core principle of the european union and should be reflected in all eu policies; thus within the european digital transition , to acknowledge the fundamental role of women to achieve the european digital strategy goals in line with the gender equality objectives recalls that women’s participation in the digital economy is crucial to shaping a flourishing digital society and to boosting the eu’s digital internal market;


### 2. maintains that smes need to be supported in their digital transformation due to their limited resources; invites , therefore , the commission to pursue a fitness check for smes before publishing legislation and to keep administrative burdens to a minimum by , inter alia , developing standards; ### 2. maintains that smes need to be supported in their digital transformation due to their limited resources; in particular , with a view to maintaining balance in the internal market and a level playing field for all platform holders or operators , regardless of their size; invites , therefore , the commission to pursue a fitness check for smes before publishing legislation and to keep administrative burdens and any obstacles to a minimum by , inter alia , developing fair and effective standards;


### 2. recognises that the eu has an enormously strong sme sector; recalls that this second wage of digitalisation could lead to a strong industrial development of smes; calls for a goal of 500 digital unicorns within 10 years; ### 2. recognises that the eu has an enormously strong sme sector; notes that the successful digital transformation of european smes is vital for economic growth , job-creation , and social cohesion; recalls that this second wave of digitalisation could lead to a strong industrial development of smes; calls for comprehensive measures , such as access to finance , introduction of the eu start-up visa , and reduction of regulatory burden , to better facilitate the growth of digital unicorns in europe; notes that these measures should be developed in constant dialogue with relevant stakeholders;


### 3. notes that data access and processing are often indispensable to providing competitive digital services; calls on the commission to adopt digital trade rules that increase the competitiveness of eu business and facilitate the free transfer of data flows across borders while respecting eu data protection rules; ### 3. notes that data access and processing are often indispensable to providing competitive digital services; calls on the commission to adopt digital trade rules that increase the competitiveness of eu business and facilitate the free transfer of data flows globally while respecting eu data protection rules; including by adding ambitious and flexible provisions on cross-border data flows in trade agreements that do not allow for excessive state intervention;


### 3. notes that data access and processing are often indispensable to providing competitive digital services; calls on the commission to adopt digital trade rules that increase the competitiveness of eu business and facilitate the free transfer of data flows across borders while respecting eu data protection rules; ### 3. notes that data access and processing are often indispensable to providing competitive digital services; calls on the commission to adopt digital trade rules that increase the competitiveness of eu business and facilitate the free transfer of data flows across borders in full conformity with eu privacy and data protection law , including the gdpr;


### 3. believes that digitalisation and technologies such as ai will be important for achieving the objectives of the green deal and for economic recovery from the covid-19 crisis; considers that the covid-19 crisis also offers an opportunity to speed up digitalisation , and that the digital transformation must serve the public interest overall; ### 3. believes that digitalisation and emerging technologies such as ai will be important for achieving the objectives of the green deal and for economic recovery from the covid-19 crisis; considers that the covid-19 crisis also offers an opportunity to speed up digitalisation , and that the digital transformation must serve the public interest overall;


### 3. believes that digitalisation and technologies such as ai will be important for achieving the objectives of the green deal and for economic recovery from the covid-19 crisis; considers that the covid-19 crisis also offers an opportunity to speed up digitalisation , and that the digital transformation must serve the public interest overall; ### 3. believes that digitalisation and technologies such as ai will be important for achieving the objectives of the green deal and for economic recovery from the covid-19 crisis; considers that the covid-19 crisis also offers an opportunity to speed up digitalisation , and that the digital transformation must serve the public interest overall; believes that the digital transformation must be targeted to meet the needs of urban , rural and isolated regions in the eu;


### 3. stresses the enormous potential of systems that use ai in the transport sector in terms of road safety and the achievement of the objectives set out in vision zero; ### 3. stresses the enormous potential of systems that use ai in the transport sector in terms of road safety and the achievement of the objectives set out in vision zero; stresses that the opportunities presented by ai should be emphasised and that policymakers should strive to set a positive tone;


### 3. deplores the omission of culture from ai strategies and policy recommendations at both national and union level; stresses the need to set up a clear legal framework that prioritises culture in order to bring the union to the forefront of ai-driven innovation and value creation worldwide and to maximise its benefits , while assessing its potential risks for society; ### 3. deplores the omission of culture from ai strategies and policy recommendations at both national and union level; stresses the need to set up , in association with all the relevant stakeholders including small and medium actors , a clear legal framework that prioritises culture in order to bring the union to the forefront of ai-driven innovation and value creation worldwide and to maximise its benefits , while assessing its potential risks for society;


### 3. underlines the fact that since ai by definition encapsulates data processing , it must respect eu law on data protection; ### 3. underlines the fact that since ai by definition encapsulates data processing , it must respect eu law on data protection , in particular the general data protection regulation;


### 3. calls on the commission to continue addressing the gender gap within the ict sector and to establish policies to increase the participation of women in science , technology , engineering and mathematics (stem) and ai , and to advocate measures in education and employment in the digital sector in order to achieve this; ### 3. calls on the commission to continue addressing the gender gap within the ict sector and to establish policies to fully assess the causes and factors behind and to establish policies mechanisms and programmes to increase the participation of women in science , technology , engineering and mathematics (stem) and ai , and to advocate measures in education and employment in the digital sector in order to achieve this; to take into account ai from a gender perspective when developing policy and legislation , and , if necessary , adapt current legislation , including eu programmes;


### 3. points out that the digital single market and ai are diverse and subject to quick and dynamic developments; urges the commission to base proposals and initiatives on the right balance avoiding on the one hand an one-size-fits-all approach and on the other hand a fragmentation of the market through national approaches on the other; ### 3. points out that the digital single market and ai are diverse and subject to quick and dynamic developments; urges the commission to base proposals and initiatives on the right balance , supporting innovation on the one hand and ensuring consumer safety and protection on the other , with a view to introducing harmonised statutory framework provisions , avoiding on the one hand an one-size-fits-all approach and on the other hand a fragmentation of the market through national approaches on the other;


### 3. emphasises that the covid crisis provides an opportunity to speed up digitalisation; calls for financial incentives for smes that want to enter new markets; ### 3. emphasises that the covid crisis provides an opportunity to speed up digitalisation; calls for public-private partnerships and financial incentives for innovative digital smes , mid-caps , and start-ups that want to enter new markets; calls for the reinforcement of and clearer strategy for the european digital innovation hubs in order to help widespread uptake of new technologies by smes; recognizes the potential of intermediaries in the sme ecosystem , such as accountants , chambers of commerce and insurance experts , in helping to foster the digital transition of smes;


### 4. emphasises that the transposition of the audiovisual media services directive (avmsd) into national law is crucial to achieving a genuine digital single market; urges the member states that have not yet done so to complete the transposition as soon as possible; stresses that the future digital services act (dsa) and any future regulation on ai , with particular regard to the cultural and creative sectors , should be in line with the principles and obligations of the avmsd; ### 4. emphasises that the transposition of the audiovisual media services directive (avmsd) as well as directive (eu) 2019/790 , the copyright directive , into national law is crucial to achieving a genuine digital single market , which contributes to respect and promote cultural diversity; urges the member states that have not yet done so to complete the transposition as soon as possible; stresses that the future digital services act (dsa) , union data policies and any future regulation on ai , with particular regard to the cultural and creative sectors , should be in line with the principles and obligations of the avmsd and the copyright directive; expresses major concerns in this regard on the european commission’s recent consultation paper on the guidance for the application of article 17 of the directive on copyright in the digital single market , which contains certain aspects and elements of interpretation that may , if adopted as it is , have a detrimental impact on rightholders and creators and might consequently hamper a smooth functioning of union copyright rules in the digital single market;


### 4. stresses that protecting networks of interconnected ai and robotics is paramount and that strong measures must be taken to prevent security breaches , data leaks , data poisoning , cyberattacks and the misuse of personal data; ### 4. stresses that protecting networks of interconnected ai and robotics is paramount and that strong measures must be taken to ensure resilience against attacks and prevent security breaches , data leaks , data poisoning , cyberattacks and the misuse of personal data;


### 4. considers that ai can significantly contribute to promoting gender equality , provided that an appropriate legal framework is developed , conscious and unconscious biases are eliminated and the principles of gender equality are respected; stresses the lack of diversity in the ai sector within teams of developers and engineers , and the importance of using sex-disaggregated data when developing products , ai standards , algorithms and applications; ### 4. considers that ai can significantly contribute to promoting gender equality , provided that an appropriate legal framework is developed , conscious and unconscious biases are eliminated and the principles of gender equality are respected; stresses the lack of diversity in the ai sector within teams of developers and engineers , and the importance of using sex-disaggregated data when developing products , ai standards , algorithms and applications; to ensure that it is developed in a way that respects and promotes equality;


### 4. highlights that a new regulatory framework for ai is needed in order to deal with the potential risks of autonomous behaviour and to maximise the trust of and the benefit for users; invites the commission to propose a risk-based and innovation-friendly legislative framework for ai that focuses on identifying and closing gaps within existing legislation and being coherent with the existing sector-specific legislation; ### 4. highlights that a new harmonised regulatory framework for ai is needed in order to deal with the potential risks of autonomous behaviour , maximise the trust of and the benefit for users and ensure an adequate level of protection; invites the commission to propose a risk-based and innovation-friendly legislative framework for ai that focuses on identifying and closing gaps within existing legislation and being coherent with the existing sector-specific legislation;


### 4. calls for special economic digital zones to promote structural change and create development cores for new digital economic structures; ### deleted


### 5. welcomes the conclusion of the rules-based asian regional comprehensive economic partnership (rcep) agreement , which deepens the economic integration of the region; regrets , however , the lack of a robust sustainable development chapter in the rcep; believes that the conclusion of the rcep should encourage the eu to help set global rules for the digital economy; supports in this regard the establishment of an eu-us trade and technology council and the work on a transatlantic ai agreement to help facilitate trade and the development of compatible rules and standards in digital trade; ### 5. takes note of the conclusion of the rules-based asian regional comprehensive economic partnership (rcep) agreement , which deepens the economic integration of the region; regrets , however , the lack of a robust sustainable development chapter including commitments on environmental preservation and social rights in the rcep; believes that the conclusion of the rcep should encourage the eu to help set global rules for the digital economy; supports in this regard the establishment of an eu-us trade and technology council and the work on a transatlantic ai agreement to help facilitate trade and the development of compatible rules and standards in digital trade , ensuring a central role for the eu in the setting of those standards;


### 5. calls on the commission to follow the ‘one in , one out’ principle in its future legislative proposals , and to address the fragmentation of the digital single market , remove any existing unjustified barriers , and support innovation by reducing red tape; ### 5. calls on the commission to follow the ‘one in , one out’ principle in its future legislative proposals , and to avoid the fragmentation of the digital single market , remove any existing unjustified barriers in particular administrative burdens , and support innovation especially for smes;


### 5. points out that ai can be an effective tool for enforcing the rules on online content , such as illegal content or fake news , through automated content filtering , and can also be used to implement the ‘notice , take down and stay down’ mechanisms; stresses , however , that ai may pose challenges to fundamental rights , in particular freedom of expression , as well as access to information , cultural diversity and media pluralism; ### 5. points out that ai can be an effective tool for enforcing the rules on online content , such as illegal content or fake news , through automated content filtering , and can also be used to implement the ‘notice , take down and stay down’ mechanisms; stresses , however , that ai may pose challenges to fundamental rights , in particular freedom of expression , as well as access to information , cultural diversity and media pluralism; points out that the digital single market should be driven by the principle that "what is illegal offline is also illegal online";


### 5. underlines that it is also necessary that public independent data protection authorities monitor and effectively enforce compliance with data protection law; ### 5. reiterates the importance of providing public independent data protection authorities with the necessary staffing and funding to allow them to monitor and effectively enforce compliance with data protection law;


### 5. calls on the commission to stop funding big companies and distributing the remaining funds by a shotgun approach; calls for winners to be picked and grown larger; suggests prioritising future areas for digital economic structures; ### deleted


### 6. underlines that the eu should position itself as a global leader in the development of ethical and legal norms and standards for the use of ai in the transport sector; ### 6. recognises the ambition to make the eu a world leader in the development and application of ai in the transport and tourism sectors and underlines the fact that the eu should position itself as a global leader in the development of ethical and legal norms and standards for the use of ai in the transport sector , potentially setting standards for the rest of the world;


### 6. underlines that the eu should position itself as a global leader in the development of ethical and legal norms and standards for the use of ai in the transport sector; ### 6. underlines that the eu should position itself as a global leader in the development of uniform , ethical , and legal norms and standards for the use of ai in the transport sector in the eu internal market; a fragmented digital traffic-data market , which runs counter to digital innovation , must be avoided;


### 6. notes the importance of algorithms being transparent in order to fully protect fundamental rights; underlines the need for legislators to consider the complex issue of liability and that liability in all ai applications should always rest with a person , either natural or legal. ### 6. highlights the importance of algorithms being transparent in order to fully protect fundamental rights; underlines the need for legislators to consider the complex issue of liability and that liability in all ai applications should always rest with a person , either natural or legal;


### 6. calls for special attention to be paid to women as vulnerable consumers and to the rise in cyber violence against women in the digital world , and welcomes the commission’s proposal on the digital services act (com(2020)0825) , which is addressing these issues. ### 6. calls for special attention to be paid to women as vulnerable consumers and to the rise in cyber criminality and cyber violence against women in the digital world , that as a consequence is also deterring women and girls from an inclusive digital participation and welcomes the commission’s proposal on the digital services act (com(2020)0825) , which is addressing these issues.


### 6. demands an end to the exodus of start-ups that do not receive follow-up-funding in europe but find it elsewhere; ### 6. highlights the lack of european venture capital funding , the disproportionately large role of public entities in the funding that currently exists , and the significant differences in start-up ecosystems and available financing between member states; calls for a comprehensive european approach , based on competitive taxation and investor-friendly regulation , to ensure access to finance for promising european start-ups in all growth stages;


### a. whereas substantial barriers still exist for the realisation of the full potential of the digital single market , and whereas a common eu approach is essential for its success; ### a. whereas substantial barriers in the digital single market still exist and they have to be removed in order to realise its full potential , and whereas a common eu approach is essential for its success;


### a. whereas artificial intelligence (ai) technologies are being developed rapidly and being used in many sectors , presenting huge opportunities for the member states and their citizens; ### a. whereas artificial intelligence (ai) technologies are being developed rapidly and being used in many sectors , presenting huge opportunities for the member states , their citizens and the european economy;


### a. whereas climate change is already having a significant impact on agriculture and is having an immediate impact on production; ### a. whereas climate change is already having a significant impact on agriculture and is having an immediate impact on production , which could be mitigated through the use of artificial intelligence technologies and innovative tools;


### a. whereas climate change is already having a significant impact on agriculture and is having an immediate impact on production; ### a. whereas climate change is already having a significant impact on agriculture and is having an immediate impact on production , a factor that has repercussions on the entire food chain and hence on consumers;


### b. whereas digitalisation has the potential to add significant value to the single market as a whole , and is important for both traditional and non-traditional sectors; ### b. whereas digitalisation has the potential to add significant value to the single market as a whole , and is important for both european consumers as well as traditional and non-traditional sectors;


### b. whereas the use of ai also poses risks and raises concerns regarding the ethics and transparency of the collection , use and dissemination of data; ### b. whereas the use of ai also poses risks and raises concerns regarding the ethics , scope and transparency of the collection , use and dissemination of personal data;


### 7. calls on the commission to increase support for key enablers of the digital economy; ### 7. calls on the commission to increase support for key enablers of the digital economy , such as: investing in research and development , supporting commercial innovations in europe , providing increased and broader access to data , building digital infrastructure , increasing the general availability of digital skills within the population , promoting technological leadership for the business environment , and creating a proportionate and harmonised regulatory environment;


### 7. notes the considerable potential of the european transport and tourism small and medium-sized enterprises (smes) operating on the digital single market; stresses the need for sufficient financial and organisational support for innovations and improving the digital skills of employees in this sector. ### 7. notes the considerable potential of the european transport and tourism small and medium-sized enterprises (smes) operating on the digital single market; stresses the need for sufficient financial and organisational support for innovations and improving the digital skills of employees in this sector; stresses that ai start-ups and joint ventures need special protection to prevent them from being sold to third countries before reaching a relevant size;


### 7. outlines that society , including consumers , should benefit from the responsible development and deployment of ai which serves the good of society; asks the commission , therefore , to define ethical rules for the development , deployment and use of ai , robotics and related technologies taking into account the principles of better regulation; ### 7. outlines that society , including consumers , should benefit from the responsible development and deployment of ai which serves the good of society , providing sufficient user protection guarantees; asks the commission , therefore , to define ethical rules for the development , deployment and use of ai , robotics and related technologies taking into account the principles of better regulation;


### 7. calls for massive investment in clusters of excellence; ### 7. calls for massive investment in clusters of excellence; calls on the commission and member states to facilitate european excellence in ai research and development by increasing research investments and facilitating additional cooperation between innovative companies , higher education , and research institutions; recognises that sharing and reusing ai application components increases use and uptake of ai solutions;


### 8. underlines that , for the training of ai , the free flow of data within the digital single market is essential and this should be underpinned by the appropriate contractual rules; ### 8. underlines that , for the training of ai , the free flow of data within the digital single market is essential and this should be underpinned by appropriate and non-discriminatory contractual rules and effective and proportional liability provisions;


### 8. demands measures to end to the brain drain and attract the best minds to the eu; ### 8. demands measures to address the brain drain and attract the best minds to the eu without prejudice to the national labour market systems and the competencies of the social partners;


### 9. calls on the commission to ensure wider coordination of investment in the nextgenerationeu recovery plan; calls on the commission to propose concrete actions within this plan to support key digital enablers and high impact technologies in the eu; ### 9. calls on the commission to ensure wider coordination of investment in the nextgenerationeu recovery plan; calls on the commission to propose concrete actions within this plan to support key digital enablers and high impact technologies in the eu such as artificial intelligence , high performance computing , quantum computing , cloud infrastructure , platforms , smart cities , 5g and fibre infrastructure;


### 9. recognises that ai deployment is key to european competitiveness in the digital era; highlights that to facilitate the uptake of ai in europe , a common european approach is needed to avoid internal market fragmentation; ### 9. recognises that ai deployment is key to european competitiveness in the digital era; highlights that to facilitate the uptake of ai in europe , a common european approach based on a human-centric approach to ai , transparency and clear liability rules is needed to avoid internal market fragmentation; highlights the potential for european added value and the current cost of non-europe in the field of ai and digital regulation;


### 10. considers that access to big data is key for the development of ai; calls for a new approach to data regulation; ### 10. considers that access to high quality training data is key for the development of ai; stresses that businesses and researchers should be given greater freedom to use data , with less regulatory interference; calls for a new approach to data regulation; that gives higher priority to innovation and competitiveness by giving businesses greater freedom to the use of data when it is not considered to be high risk , along with clear and balanced rules on ipr and protection of business secrets;


### 11. warns against overregulating ai; recalls that regulation must be balanced , agile , permanently evaluated , and based on soft regulation except for high-risk areas; ### 11. warns against overregulating ai; recalls that regulation must be balanced , agile , permanently evaluated , and based on soft regulation except for high-risk areas; calls for a regulatory approach that is not based on a snapshot of what technological development looks like at the moment , but strives for the rules to be applicable to future technological breakthroughs and phenomena; calls for all ai regulation to be technology-neutral and proportionate;


### 12. recalls that we need a data economy that works for the entire eu , as it is a key enabler of digitalisation; believes that it is important for the eu to guarantee a high degree of control over data , with clear and balanced rules on intellectual property rights (ipr) , but considers it essential to maintain openness towards third countries , and that the free flow of non-personal data across borders is important; ### 12. recalls that we need a data economy that works for the entire eu , as it is a key enabler of digitalisation; believes that it is important for the eu to guarantee a high degree of control over data , with clear and balanced rules on intellectual property rights (ipr) , but considers it essential to maintain openness towards third countries , and that the free flow of non-personal data across borders is important; supports the commission’s aim to address unjustified obstacles to international non-personal data flows as well as the restrictions european companies sometimes face in third countries;


### 12. calls for a european disruptive innovation agency which concentrates on first stage research. ### deleted


### 13. outlines that it is unacceptable that consumers are exposed to unsafe products and therefore increased responsibilities for online marketplaces are needed; asks the commission to set up clear rules for the responsibility of content hosting platforms for goods sold or advertised on them in the dsa proposal in order to inter alia close the legal gap in which the buyers failed to obtain the satisfaction to which he or she is entitled according to the law or the contract for the supply of goods for example because of the inability to identify the primary seller; ### 13. outlines that it is unacceptable that consumers are exposed to unsafe products and therefore increased responsibilities for online marketplaces based on the principle of proportionality are needed; asks the commission to set up clear rules for the responsibility of content hosting platforms for goods sold or advertised on them in the dsa proposal in order to inter alia close the legal gap in which the buyers failed to obtain the satisfaction to which he or she is entitled according to the law or the contract for the supply of goods for example because of the inability to identify the primary seller;


### 14. welcomes the new consumer agenda proposed by the commission , and encourages the commission to update consumer protection legislation , where appropriate , to take better account of new technologies and potential consumer harm; ### 14. welcomes the new consumer agenda proposed by the commission , and encourages the commission to update consumer protection legislation , where appropriate , to take better account of new technologies and potential consumer harm; considers it important that we empower european consumers to play an active role in the digital transition and that when consumers are reassured that their rights will be protected in all circumstances there is an increase in trust and adoption of digital technologies;


### 15. strongly believes that ai can be a force for good for all european citizens , and offer significant benefits and value for the economy , safety , security , education , healthcare , transport and the environment; believes the security , inclusiveness , accessibility and fairness , especially for groups in vulnerable situations , of ai-driven products and services need to be ensured; ### 15. strongly believes that ai can be a force for good for all european citizens , and offer significant benefits and value for the economy , safety , security , education , healthcare , transport and the environment; believes the safety , security , inclusiveness , accessibility and fairness , especially for groups in vulnerable situations , of ai-driven products and services need to be ensured;


### 17. notes that while ai offers great potential , it can also present certain risks due to issues such as bias and opacity; ### 17. notes that while ai offers great potential , it can also present certain risks due to issues such as bias and opacity; believes that these risks can manifest themselves depending on the specific context and use-cases of ai;


### 18. considers that a lack of consumer trust and confidence can hold back the widespread adoption of ai; ### 18. considers that aside from some of the barriers to the development , adoption and effective regulation of digital technologies in the eu , a lack of consumer trust and confidence can hold back the widespread adoption of ai;


### 19. welcomes the commission’s white paper on ai , and calls on the commission to develop a common eu regulatory framework for ai that is risk-based , proportionate and clear; ### 19. welcomes the commission’s white paper on ai , and calls on the commission to develop a common eu regulatory framework for ai that is risk-based , proportionate , clear and common eu regulatory framework for ai; believes this is needed to oversee automated decision making systems and that this should complement existing legislation relevant to ai and ensure there is no duplication or new barriers created as a result;


### 19. welcomes the commission’s white paper on ai , and calls on the commission to develop a common eu regulatory framework for ai that is risk-based , proportionate and clear; ### 19. welcomes the commission’s white paper on ai , and calls on the commission to develop a common eu regulatory framework for ai that is risk-based , proportionate , clear and future-proof;


### 20. notes that , to varying degrees , ai is already subject to current european legislation , and calls on the commission to issue clear guidance on the functioning and synergy between any current applicable legislation and any proposed new measures; considers it important not to over-regulate ai; ### 20. notes that , to varying degrees , ai is already subject to current european legislation , and calls on the commission to issue clear guidance on the functioning and synergy between any current applicable legislation and any proposed new measures; considers it important to concentrate on filling the existing legal gaps in order to avoid over-regulating ai;


### 22. believes that the objective of a regulatory framework for ai should be to create an internal market for trustworthy ai-enabled products , applications and services , and that this should be based on article 114 of the tfeu; ### 22. believes that the objective of a regulatory framework for ai should be to create an internal market for trustworthy and safe ai-enabled products , applications and services , and that this should be based on article 114 of the tfeu;


### 27. considers that a voluntary labelling scheme for trustworthy ai , based on clear and common guidance drawn up by the commission , could help improve consumer trust; ### 27. considers that a voluntary labelling scheme for trustworthy high-risk ai , based on clear and common guidance drawn up by the commission , could help improve consumer trust;


### 28. strongly believes that new regulatory requirements and assessments should be both understandable and implementable , and incorporated into existing sector specific requirements where possible; ### 28. strongly believes that new regulatory requirements and assessments should be both understandable and implementable , and incorporated into existing sector specific requirements where possible and keep administrative burdens to a minimum;


### 33. calls on the commission to update the existing liability framework in order to address new challenges posed by emerging digital technologies such as artificial intelligence; ### 33. calls on the commission to update the existing product safety and liability framework in order to address new challenges posed by emerging digital technologies such as artificial intelligence;


### 1. welcomes the fact that the new eu gender action plan 2021-2025 (gap iii) calls for the promotion of gender equality through the eu’s trade policy and recalls the necessary support for the inclusion of a specific gender chapter in eu trade and investment agreements; ### 1. points out that , according to the report 'women and trade: the role of trade in promoting gender equality' , published jointly by the world trade organization (wto) and the world bank , trade supports the economic and social empowerment of women in the workplace , marketplace and home , and also women make up , on average , 33% of the labour force in exporting firms versus 24% in non-exporting firms , meaning that countries that are more open to trade , as measured by the trade-to-gross domestic product ratio , have higher levels of gender equality; welcomes the fact that the new eu gender action plan 2021-2025 (gap iii) calls for the promotion of gender equality through the eu’s trade policy and recalls the necessary support for the inclusion of a specific gender chapter in eu trade and investment agreements;


### 1. welcomes the fact that the new eu gender action plan 2021-2025 (gap iii) calls for the promotion of gender equality through the eu’s trade policy and recalls the necessary support for the inclusion of a specific gender chapter in eu trade and investment agreements; ### 1. welcomes the fact that the new eu gender action plan 2021-2025 (gap iii) continues to promote gender equality through the eu’s trade policy; welcomes the commission and the council's promotion and support of the inclusion of a specific gender chapter in eu trade and investment agreements;


### 1. deplores the fact that the council of the european union has failed to achieve unanimity on conclusions owing to objections from four member states to the word ‘gender’; ### 1. notes that the council of the european union has failed to achieve unanimity on conclusions owing to objections from four member states to the word ‘gender’;


### 1. welcomes the eu gender action plan iii (gap iii) and its ambitious and comprehensive objectives , and insists on its full implementation , policy coherence and institutional capacity across all areas of eu external action and the institutional structures of the commission and the european external action service (eeas); ### 1. notes the eu gender action plan iii (gap iii) and its ambitious and comprehensive objectives , and insists on its full implementation , policy coherence and institutional capacity across all areas of eu external action and the institutional structures of the commission and the european external action service (eeas);


### — having regard to the generation equality forum held in march 2021 in mexico city and from 30 june to 2 july 2021 in paris , ### — having regard to the generation equality forum held in march 2021 in mexico city and from 30 june to 2 july 2021 in paris , as well as the "global acceleration plan for gender equality" and the new "compact on women , peace and security and humanitarian action" launched as a result of the forum ,


### b. whereas violence is the most extreme form of gender inequality; ### b. whereas violence in all its forms is the most extreme form of gender inequality;


### d. whereas the pandemic is having a serious impact on women and girls , particularly in terms of access to education and healthcare , and is resulting in increasing gender violence and economic inequalities; ### d. whereas the covid-19 pandemic is having a serious impact on women and girls and has exacerbated existing gender inequalities , particularly impacting the access to education and healthcare , including access to sexual and reproductive health and rights , and is resulting in increasing gender-based violence and economic inequalities;


### e. whereas measures to combat inequality will be of fundamental importance to the recovery; ### e. whereas measures to combat inequalities will be of fundamental importance to the upcoming post covid-19 pandemic recovery;


### more effective eu commitment ### more effective eu commitment and efficient implementation


### 2. calls for full implementation of gap iii in every aspect of eu external action; ### 2. calls for full implementation of gap iii in every aspect of eu external action through a gender-transformative and intersectional approach , including in non-social sectors such as trade , energy , agriculture; reiterates that actions to implement gap iii have to be guided by the ambition of addressing the root causes of gender inequalities;


### 2. calls on the member states to use gap iii as a basis to enhance gender mainstreaming in their external action , to put its gender-transformative , rights-based , intersectional approach into practice , and to adopt a feminist foreign policy; ### 2. calls on the eeas , the commission and the eu member states to use gap iii as a basis to enhance gender equality and gender mainstreaming in their external action , to support the full enjoyment of human rights by all girls and women , to strengthen their empowerment across the globe , and to put its gender-transformative , rights-based , intersectional approach into practice;


### 2. calls on the member states to use gap iii as a basis to enhance gender mainstreaming in their external action , to put its gender-transformative , rights-based , intersectional approach into practice , and to adopt a feminist foreign policy; ### 2. calls on the member states to use gap iii as a basis to enhance gender mainstreaming in their external action , to put its gender-transformative , rights-based , intersectional approach into practice , and to adopt a feminist foreign policy stipulating equality for women from third countries;


### 2. calls on the member states to use gap iii as a basis to enhance gender mainstreaming in their external action , to put its gender-transformative , rights-based , intersectional approach into practice , and to adopt a feminist foreign policy; ### 2. calls on the member states to use gap iii as a basis to enhance the gender perspective in their external action , to put its rights-based approach into practice , and to focus their foreign policy programs on fundamental freedoms and human rights;


### 3. stresses the need for an annual assessment of gap results at every level and every stage , against targeted and measurable objectives; ### 3. stresses the need for an annual assessment of gap results , as foreseen , at every level and every stage , against the targeted and measurable objectives set;


### 3. calls on the commission and the eeas to counter any forms of discrimination based on gender , race , ethnicity , sexual orientation , gender identity , class , religion , disability or age , as part of eu external action; ### 3. calls on the commission and the eeas to step up public communication and information in third countries and to counter any forms of discrimination based on gender , race , ethnicity , sexual orientation , gender identity , class , religion , disability or age , as part of eu external action;


### 3. calls on the commission and the eeas to counter any forms of discrimination based on gender , race , ethnicity , sexual orientation , gender identity , class , religion , disability or age , as part of eu external action; ### 3. calls on the commission and the eeas to counter any forms of discrimination based on gender , race , ethnicity , sexual orientation , gender identity , class , religion , wage , disability or age , as part of eu external action;


### 4. calls on eu missions and delegations and on the member states to cooperate closely in the implementation of gap iii; ### 4. calls on eu missions and delegations and on the member states and local and regional governments to cooperate closely in the implementation of gap iii through proper guidance developed and shared through the delegations;


### 4. calls for the systematic implementation of rigorous gender analysis , gender-disaggregated data collection , gender budgeting and gender impact assessments , as well as for mandatory training on gender equality; ### 4. calls for the systematic implementation of rigorous gender analysis , and relevant impact assessments;


### 5. calls for close ties to be established with organisational networks and ministries in partner countries and calls for an annual dialogue regarding gap iii implementation , encompassing stakeholders and , in particular , civil society; ### 5. calls for close ties to be established with organisational networks and ministries in partner countries and calls for an annual policy and political dialogue regarding gap iii implementation , encompassing stakeholders and , in particular , local authorities and civil society;


### 5. highlights the need to tackle the shrinking space for civil society and to closely consult with organisations fighting , in particular , for the rights of women , girls and marginalised groups; ### 5. highlights the need to tackle the shrinking space for civil society and to closely consult with organisations fighting , in particular , for the rights of women , girls and marginalised groups; in this regard , proposes that the european commission should facilitate input by civil society actors regarding proposing human rights violation cases applicable for eu sanctions , such as the eu global human rights sanctions regime (eu magnitsky act);


### 5. highlights the need to tackle the shrinking space for civil society and to closely consult with organisations fighting , in particular , for the rights of women , girls and marginalised groups; ### 5. highlights the need to enhance the space for civil society and to closely consult with organisations engaged in the fighting for the rights of all girls and women , including women’s rights activists , human rights defenders , young people , and religious and faith-based organizations;


### 5. highlights the need to tackle the shrinking space for civil society and to closely consult with organisations fighting , in particular , for the rights of women , girls and marginalised groups; ### 5. highlights the need to tackle the shrinking space for civil society , reinforce existing structures and to closely consult with organisations fighting , in particular , for the rights of women , girls and marginalised groups;


### 6. calls for funding for local women’s organisations to be increased; condemns all moves to clamp down on women’s rights activists and urges all governments to protect , support and cooperate with civil society; ### 6. calls for funding for local girl , youth-led and women’s organisations and networks in all their diversity to be adequately funded; condemns all moves to clamp down on women’s rights activists and urges all governments to protect , support and cooperate with civil society;


### 6. calls for funding for local women’s organisations to be increased; condemns all moves to clamp down on women’s rights activists and urges all governments to protect , support and cooperate with civil society; ### 6. condemns all moves to clamp down on women’s rights activists and urges all governments to protect , support and cooperate with civil society;


### 6. welcomes the integration of the women , peace and security framework in gap iii; insists on the inclusion of women and marginalised groups in conflict resolution and peace negotiations , across all tracks; ### 6. welcomes the integration of the women , peace and security framework in gap iii; insists on the inclusion of girls and women in conflict resolution and peace negotiations; welcomes the emphasis on gender inequality as a root cause and driver of conflict and fragility; regrets the lack of consideration of women in mediation processes; calls for reinforcement of csdp missions design and planning , which should take into account the recommendations made by local women’s organisations;


### 7. calls strongly for gap iii to be coordinated with other initiatives , such as the spotlight initiative , whose effectiveness needs to be improved and budget increased; ### 7. calls strongly for gap iii to be coordinated with other initiatives , whose effectiveness needs to be improved and budget increased; welcomes the spotlight initiative and its aim of eliminating all forms of violence against women and girls; reinforces the importance of closer cooperation between the eu and the united nations in order to achieve the aims set out in gap iii;


### 7. calls strongly for gap iii to be coordinated with other initiatives , such as the spotlight initiative , whose effectiveness needs to be improved and budget increased; ### 7. calls strongly for gap iii to be coordinated with other initiatives , such as the spotlight initiative , whose effectiveness needs to be evaluated and accordingly improved and thus the budget adequately increased;


### 7. welcomes the introduction of country-level implementation plans; calls on the commission and the eeas to take full ownership of gender-sensitive country reporting and gender mainstreaming; ### 7. welcomes the introduction of eu strategic engagement at multilateral , regional and country levels in close cooperation with partner governments , civil society , including women’s rights activists , human rights defenders , young people , religious and faith-based organizations , the private sector and other key stakeholders; calls on the commission and the eeas to take full ownership of country implementation plans and reporting on gender equality;


### 7. welcomes the introduction of country-level implementation plans; calls on the commission and the eeas to take full ownership of gender-sensitive country reporting and gender mainstreaming; ### 7. welcomes the introduction of country-level implementation plans; calls on the commission and the eeas to take full ownership of context-sensitive country reporting;