### strengthen the credibility of eu external anti-corruption action by more effectively combating corruption and money laundering within the eu; recognise that systemic corruption in some eu member states undermines anti-corruption efforts in third countries; recognise that a lack of determined action , delays and a gap in implementing the anti-corruption regulations within the eu emboldens corrupt actors outside of the eu; ### strengthen the credibility of eu external anti-corruption action by more effectively combating corruption and money laundering within the eu; recognise that corruption in some eu member states undermines anti-corruption efforts in third countries; recognise that a lack of determined action , delays and a gap in implementing the anti-corruption regulations within the eu emboldens corrupt actors outside of the eu;


### mainstream a rights-based anti-corruption approach into eu external action in the programming of the neighbourhood , development and international cooperation instrument (ndici) , the instrument for pre-accession assistance (ipa) and the eu trust funds; prioritise binding anti-corruption commitments with targets and timetables; strengthen monitoring and enforcement; improve communication between specialised eu agencies and partners on the ground; invest in digital and data-driven methods to fight corruption; ### continue mainstreaming human rights as a key part of the tools used for eu external action; prioritise binding anti-corruption commitments with targets and timetables; strengthen monitoring and enforcement; improve communication between specialised eu agencies and partners on the ground; invest in digital and data-driven methods to fight corruption;


### mainstream a rights-based anti-corruption approach into eu external action in the programming of the neighbourhood , development and international cooperation instrument (ndici) , the instrument for pre-accession assistance (ipa) and the eu trust funds; prioritise binding anti-corruption commitments with targets and timetables; strengthen monitoring and enforcement; improve communication between specialised eu agencies and partners on the ground; invest in digital and data-driven methods to fight corruption; ### mainstream a rights-based anti-corruption approach into eu external action in the programming of the neighbourhood , development and international cooperation instrument (ndici) , the instrument for pre-accession assistance (ipa); prioritise domestic revenue raising in developing partner countries by assisting tax evasion and straighten good governance; improve communication between specialised eu agencies and partners on the ground; invest in digital and data-driven methods to fight corruption;


### design programmes under the ipa , the ndici , and the eu trust funds to support anti-corruption capacity building; increase the efficiency of eu spending by including clear programme targets and timelines; ### design programmes under the ipa , the ndici , and in line with the relevant regulations of these instruments to support anti-corruption capacity building; increase the efficiency of eu spending by including clear programme targets and timelines;


### ensure that the highest ethical and transparency standards are applied in eu funding , that csos and independent actors are included and that grievance mechanisms are available and accessible; ensure that all eu bodies and agencies improve access to information and refrain from charging fees for access to information; ### ensure that the highest ethical and transparency standards are applied in eu funding; ensure that all eu bodies and agencies improve access to information and refrain from charging fees for access to information;


### in all eu-third country trade agreements , include a strong and mandatory human rights conditionality framework with anti-corruption clauses; as a last resort , impose sanctions or suspend agreements in the event of serious acts of corruption; ### in all eu-third country trade agreements , include a strong human rights framework with anti-corruption clauses;


### in all eu-third country trade agreements , include a strong and mandatory human rights conditionality framework with anti-corruption clauses; as a last resort , impose sanctions or suspend agreements in the event of serious acts of corruption; ### in all eu-third country trade agreements , include a human rights conditionality framework with anti-corruption recommendations;


### in all eu-third country trade agreements , include a strong and mandatory human rights conditionality framework with anti-corruption clauses; as a last resort , impose sanctions or suspend agreements in the event of serious acts of corruption; ### in all eu-third country trade agreements , include a strong and mandatory human rights conditionality framework with anti-corruption clauses; impose sanctions or suspend agreements in the event of serious acts of corruption;


### strengthen the focus on anti-corruption in human rights dialogues and public diplomacy; ### strengthen the focus on anti-corruption in human rights dialogues and public diplomacy; actively involve human rights defenders and independent civil society in stamping out these practices; ensure the technical training of members of eu delegations in how to address corruption issues and propose solutions and initiatives in the specific national contexts in which they operate;


### monitor the corruption risks involved in authoritarian third countries’ large-scale construction and investment projects , undertaken globally but also in member states , particularly in the energy and infrastructure sectors; note that these projects often raise concerns of non-transparent financing or fiscal risks; proceed with the swift implementation of the eu’s ‘globally connected europe’ programme , approved by the council on 12 july 2021 , with the potential to counter these efforts; ### monitor the corruption risks involved in authoritarian third countries’ large-scale construction and investment projects , undertaken globally but also in member states , particularly in the energy and infrastructure sectors; note that these projects often raise concerns of non-transparent financing or fiscal risks; proceed with the swift implementation of the eu’s ‘globally connected europe’ programme , approved by the council on 12 july 2021 , with the potential to play a part in countering these efforts by promoting eu values and interests in economic , development and security policies;


### recognise the crucial role of csos , human rights defenders (hrds) and investigative journalists in the fight against corruption , through changing societal norms , fighting impunity , gathering data , and achieving better implementation and enforcement of anti-corruption measures; ### recognise the crucial role of impartial csos , human rights defenders (hrds) and investigative journalists in the fight against corruption , through changing societal norms , fighting impunity , gathering data , and achieving better implementation and enforcement of anti-corruption measures;


### strengthen protection of whistleblowers and anti-corruption hrds , including through temporary visa schemes; ### strengthen protection of whistleblowers and anti-corruption hrds;


### assume a leadership role in forging a coalition of democracies to counter the global rise of kleptocracy; insist on including anti-corruption on the agenda of upcoming international summits such as the g7 or the summit for democracy proposed by united states president biden; continue to proactively contribute to the work of international and regional forums to fight corruption and promote human rights; ### assume a leadership role in forging a coalition of democracies to counter the rise of kleptocracy; insist on including anti-corruption on the agenda of upcoming international summits such as the g7 or the summit for democracy proposed by united states president biden; continue to proactively contribute to the work of international and regional forums to fight corruption and promote human rights;


### assume a leadership role in forging a coalition of democracies to counter the global rise of kleptocracy; insist on including anti-corruption on the agenda of upcoming international summits such as the g7 or the summit for democracy proposed by united states president biden; continue to proactively contribute to the work of international and regional forums to fight corruption and promote human rights; ### lead the fight to counter the global rise of kleptocracy; insist on including anti-corruption on the agenda of upcoming international summits such as the g7 or the summit for democracy proposed by united states president biden; continue to proactively contribute to the work of international and regional forums to fight corruption and promote human rights;


### insist on the establishment of a un special rapporteur on financial crime , corruption and human rights with a comprehensive mandate , including an objectives-oriented plan and a periodic evaluation of the anti-corruption measures taken by states; take the lead in mobilising support among human rights council member states , and to become joint sponsors of a resolution that will bring about the proposed mandate; ### insist on the establishment of a un special rapporteur on financial crime , corruption and human rights with a comprehensive mandate , including an objectives-oriented plan and a periodic evaluation of the anti-corruption measures taken by states; take the lead in mobilising support among human rights council member states , and to become joint sponsors of a resolution that will bring about the proposed mandate; detail , in this , the requirements to be met by candidates for the post in order to ensure the proper performance of their mandate , and specifying the process of transparency and authorship to which the successful candidate will be subject before taking office;


### initiate the procedure for the eu to become full member of greco , in which the eu has held observer status since 2019; ### deleted


### initiate the procedure for the eu to become full member of greco , in which the eu has held observer status since 2019; ### facilitate discussion on the possibility for the eu to become full member of greco , in which the eu has held observer status since 2019;


### (ac) set up an eu mandatory human rights and environmental due diligence (hrdd) instrument that requires companies to engage actively in the identification , assessment , mitigation , prevention and notification of any adverse impacts of their businesses and supply chains on human rights , and which includes strong anti-corruption provisions and obligatory grievance mechanisms; ### (ac) set up an eu human rights and environmental due diligence (hrdd) instrument that requires companies to engage actively in the identification , assessment , mitigation , prevention and notification of any adverse impacts of their businesses and supply chains on human rights , and which includes strong anti-corruption provisions and grievance mechanisms;


### (ac) set up an eu mandatory human rights and environmental due diligence (hrdd) instrument that requires companies to engage actively in the identification , assessment , mitigation , prevention and notification of any adverse impacts of their businesses and supply chains on human rights , and which includes strong anti-corruption provisions and obligatory grievance mechanisms; ### (ac) set up an eu mandatory human rights and environmental due diligence (hrdd) instrument that requires companies to engage actively in the identification , assessment , mitigation , prevention and notification of any adverse impacts of their businesses and supply chains on human rights , and which includes strong anti-corruption provisions and obligatory grievance mechanisms; ensure that this instrument does not generate additional administrative burdens for smes;


### (af) swiftly come forward with a legislative proposal to amend the current eu global human rights sanctions regime by extending its scope to include acts of corruption; note the risk of corrupt actors moving their assets to the eu as more and more countries adopt stricter frameworks; ### (af) swiftly come forward with a proposal to amend the current eu global human rights sanctions regime by extending its scope to include acts of corruption; note the risk of corrupt actors moving their assets to the eu as more and more countries adopt stricter frameworks;


### (ag) ensure anti-corruption measures are mainstreamed into the covid-19 response in order to provide and fairly distribute public health services or vaccines , including by strengthening of public institutions and ensuring the full transparency of the measures and the use of funding; ### (ag) ensure anti-corruption measures are mainstreamed into the covid-19 response in order to provide and fairly distribute public health services and access to vaccines , including by strengthening of public institutions and ensuring the full transparency of the measures and the use of funding;


### (ak) protect environmental hrds and land defenders , particularly women and indigenous hrds , who face the greatest risk of harassment , intimidation and violence; ### (ak) protect environmental hrds and land defenders , particularly women and indigenous hrds , who face the greatest risk of discrimination , harassment , intimidation and violence;


### (ak) protect environmental hrds and land defenders , particularly women and indigenous hrds , who face the greatest risk of harassment , intimidation and violence; ### (ak) protect - particularly women and indigenous - environmental hrds and land defenders and their lawyers , who face the greatest risk of harassment , intimidation and violence;


### gendered impacts of corruption ### gendered and other impacts of corruption


### (al) note that corruption exacerbates gender inequality and affects the extent to which women’s rights are ensured and protected; promote gender mainstreaming in anti-corruption action , as recommended by the unodc; ### (al) note that corruption exacerbates gender inequality and affects the extent to which women’s rights are ensured and protected; promote gender mainstreaming in anti-corruption action , as recommended by the unodc; take into consider that corruption impacts on other vulnerable groups such as children , people with disabilities , the elderly , economically vulnerable persons and persons belonging to minorities;


### b. whereas climate change and climate-related impacts , including environmental degradation , loss of biodiversity , deforestation and natural disasters are already threatening local , regional and international security , stability and peace; whereas climate change , which is predicted to accelerate in the medium and long term , has become an increasingly dominant risk multiplier and must be viewed as a new security challenge , together with hybrid and cyber threats; ### b. whereas climate change and climate-related impacts , including environmental degradation , loss of biodiversity , deforestation and natural disasters , are likely to promote the emergence of conflicts or crises and may already threaten local , regional and international security , stability and peace; whereas climate change , which is predicted to accelerate in the medium and long term , has become an increasingly dominant risk multiplier as it can contribute to aggravating certain pre-existing crisis factors (such as an increase in economic inequalities or strong political oppression) , and must be viewed as a new security challenge;


### h. whereas , due to the security effects of global warming , climate security measures and their financing have to be understood as contributing to defence and security; ### h. whereas , due to the security effects of global warming , climate security measures , i.e. anticipating and adapting to the consequences of climate change on the strategic environment and military missions , and their financing have to be understood as contributing to defence and security;


### 2. strongly believes that military activities and technology have to contribute to the union’s carbon neutrality targets in order to both contribute to the fight against climate change and increase mission security; underlines , in that regard , that the union’s external action should reduce its own carbon footprint and its negative effects on natural resources and biodiversity to a minimum; ### 2. strongly believes that military activities and technology have to contribute to realistic and achievable eu carbon neutrality targets in order to contribute to the fight against climate change without compromising mission security and without undermining the operational capabilities of the armed forces; calls , in that regard , for the union’s external action to reduce its own carbon footprint and its negative effects on natural resources and biodiversity;


### 4. calls for the development of concrete benchmarks to measure progress in addressing the links between climate change , on the one hand , and peace , conflict and the conflict and climate sensitivity of eu external action on the other; calls on the vp/hr to report on an annual basis to parliament on progress made; ### 4. calls for efforts to be stepped up to measure progress in addressing the links between climate change , on the one hand , and peace , conflict and the conflict and climate sensitivity of eu external action on the other; calls on the vp/hr to report to parliament on progress made;


### 7. welcomes the roadmap and calls on the eeas to ensure , together with the relevant commission services and the eda , where appropriate , the comprehensive implementation of the three work strands – the operational dimension , capability development and partnerships; calls on the member states to develop national structures in support of the objectives; urges all actors to treat this process as a priority and to develop and implement initiatives in line with the integrated approach; stresses the need to assess the environmental footprint of armed forces , as proposed in the roadmap; urges the vp/hr to propose to the member states an immediate action programme which consists of prioritised actions presented in the roadmap which can be implemented in the short term; calls for the timeframes for reviewing the roadmap to be reconsidered and , in particular , for the overall objectives to be reviewed much earlier than 2030; ### 7. welcomes the roadmap and calls on the eeas to ensure , together with the relevant commission services and the eda , where appropriate , the comprehensive implementation of the three work strands – the operational dimension , capability development and partnerships; calls on the member states to develop national structures in support of the objectives; urges all actors to develop and implement initiatives in line with the integrated approach; stresses the need to assess the environmental footprint of armed forces , as proposed in the roadmap; urges the vp/hr to propose to the member states an immediate action programme which consists of prioritised actions presented in the roadmap which can be implemented in the short term;


### 8. welcomes the light-touch reporting process based on indicators of progress related to the environmental footprint , including energy , water , waste management , etc. , of csdp missions and operations; stresses the necessity to generate more detailed assessments by 2022; ### 8. welcomes the light-touch reporting process based on indicators of progress related to the environmental footprint , including energy , water , waste management , etc. , of csdp missions and operations;


### 9. calls on the vp/hr to present , by mid-2022 , an assessment of the carbon footprint and environmental impact of the eu’s external action; stresses the need to develop by 2022 a meaningful methodology to quantify the emissions from all eu security and defence activities; believes that the roadmap should be used to trigger clear national pledges to reduce military emissions , including mandatory military emissions reporting to the unfccc , as without reporting and transparency , there will be no pressure to cut emissions and no means of determining the impact of any pledges; ### 9. encourages the vp/hr to work on an assessment of the carbon footprint and environmental impact of the eu’s external action; stresses , however , that the security of european citizens will continue to require energy sources that will necessarily entail future emissions;


### 14. believes that environmental peace building should be reinforced , as it generates sustainable and fair solutions addressing the effects of climate change and can also present opportunities to build peace , while fostering dialogue and cooperation at the local , national and international level and presenting opportunities to adopt a transformational approach to address the root causes of conflict and structural drivers of marginalisation; stresses the need to increase pre-conflict mediation initiatives , including by means of higher levels of funding via ndici; ### deleted


### 16. proposes the nomination of an eu special representative on climate , peace and conflict (eusr cpc) , who should coordinate the union’s external action in this regard , support the mainstreaming of climate sensitivity across institutions , oversee the implementation of specific actions and promote the development of internal capacities , expertise and knowledge; underlines that the eusr cpc should propose relevant initiatives to the vp/hr , the commission and the council , and should regularly brief parliament; stresses the need to deploy climate security experts to eu delegations; ### deleted


### 17. strongly believes that there is an urgent need to mandate all csdp missions and operations and all european peace facility (epf) actions to contribute to the integrated approach for addressing climate security challenges , in particular in the sahel and horn of africa regions , in order to raise the likelihood of successfully attaining the missions’ objectives; ### 17. recognises that csdp missions and operations and european peace facility (epf) actions should contribute more to the integrated approach for addressing climate security challenges , in particular in the sahel and horn of africa regions , thereby enabling a significant reduction in the costs of operations (reduction in energy consumption , use of new energy sources) while improving the missions’ operational effectiveness;


### 19. stresses the need to design mission infrastructure and a supply-chain that are climate- and environment-sensitive and as carbon-neutral as possible , and that make use of new technology such as mobile solar systems , in particular for static features; ### 19. stresses the need to design mission infrastructure and a supply-chain that are climate- and environment-sensitive and as carbon-neutral as possible , and that make use of new technology such as mobile solar systems , in particular for static features , while ensuring the best possible match between operational performance and environmental efficiency and without creating new dependencies on foreign actors;


### 20. stresses the need to strengthen the eu’s environmental peacebuilding and climate security by including tasks and support efforts relating to mediation , dialogue , the protection of civilians , conflict resolution and reconciliation in order to ease climate-induced tensions between different communities competing over scarce resources , such as farmland or water , and which easily strengthen violent armed and extremist groups or transform into armed conflicts or even inter-state wars; proposes that new missions could focus on the following: ### deleted


### 21. states that all military capabilities and services used by the union should contribute to reaching the eu’s climate targets and adapt to increasingly challenging climate conditions in order to be able , inter alia , to guarantee the fulfilment of their tasks at home and abroad; ### 21. states that the military capabilities and services of the member states should contribute , where priority operational constraints allow , to the performance of their missions and to reaching the eu’s climate targets and adapt to increasingly challenging climate conditions;


### 24. calls on dg defis , the member states , the eeas and the eda to adopt an approach incorporating a low energy , carbon and environmental footprint by design when implementing relevant eu funds and to regularly report on progress; welcomes , in this respect , the fact that 30 % of the european defence fund aims to contribute to climate action; welcomes the relevant investment of eur 133 million provided for in the first annual work programme , but notes that this represents only 11 % of the overall annual edf budget; ### 24. calls on dg defis , the member states , the eeas and the eda to adopt an approach incorporating a low energy , carbon and environmental footprint by design when implementing relevant eu funds and to regularly report on progress; stresses that the fund contributes to the integration of climate actions into eu policies and to the achievement of an overall target of 30% of eu budget spending on climate goals; welcomes the investment of eur 133 million provided for in the first annual work programme;


### 25. underlines the need to significantly increase investments in ‘green’ defence , in particular by dedicating a higher share of military r&d funded from the eu budget to carbon-neutral fuels and propulsion systems for military aircraft , ships and other vehicles , in particular as regards future major weapons systems (e.g. the future combat air system (fcas) and the european main battle tank (embt)); underlines that , given the dual nature of such investments , they have strong positive spill-over effects in the civilian sector , in particular for the ailing civil aviation industry; believes that the electrification of military technology should be further promoted and extensively financed via the edf , in particular as regards weapons systems , but also in terms of housing , barracks and related heating or cooling systems; ### 25. underlines the need to increase investments in ‘green’ defence , in particular by dedicating a higher share of military and dual-technology innovation (equipment , energy , etc.) r&d funded from the eu budget to carbon-neutral fuels and propulsion systems for military aircraft , ships and other vehicles , in particular as regards future major weapons systems (e.g. the future combat air system (fcas) and the european main battle tank (embt)); underlines that , given the dual nature of such investments , they have strong positive spill-over effects in the civilian sector , in particular for the ailing civil aviation industry; believes that preference could be given to eco-design to limit the environmental impacts of military equipment during their life cycle , while ensuring the best possible match between operational performance and environmental efficiency; believes that the electrification of military technology could be further promoted and extensively financed via european subsidies , including those granted through the edf , in particular as regards weapons systems , but also in terms of housing , barracks and related heating or cooling systems;


### 29. welcomes the stated ambition of nato secretary-general stoltenberg that nato reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050; underlines the fact that 22 member states are nato members and calls on the vp/hr to make sure that emission reduction objectives , benchmarks and methodologies are synchronised , as member states have only a single set of forces and cannot afford to have different eu and nato standards or the duplication of forces; believes that nato and the eu should decide to treat climate security as a new area for cooperation and concrete actions; ### 29. notes the stated ambition of nato secretary-general stoltenberg that nato reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050; underlines the fact that 22 member states are nato members and calls on the vp/hr to make sure that emission reduction objectives , benchmarks and methodologies are synchronised , as member states have only a single set of forces and cannot afford to have different eu and nato standards or the duplication of forces;


### e. whereas the parliamentary elections of 30 august 2020 have resulted in the first transition of power in a democratic setting in the country; ### e. whereas the parliamentary elections of 30 august 2020 have resulted in the first transition of power in a democratic setting in the country; whereas the transition of power was conducted in orderly manner;


### f. whereas montenegro benefits from pre-accession assistance under the instrument for pre-accession assistance (ipa); ### f. whereas montenegro benefits from pre-accession assistance encompassing a total of €504 ,9 million under the instrument for pre-accession assistance (ipa) since 2007;


### 4. welcomes the fact that on its first working day , the newly formed montenegrin government held an exchange of views with members of the european parliament and eu officials; encourages the new government to use its mandate to accelerate eu-related reforms and accession negotiations; ### 4. welcomes the fact that on its first working day , the newly formed montenegrin government held an exchange of views with members of the european parliament and eu officials; encourages the new government to use its mandate to accelerate eu-related reforms and accession negotiations; underlines the importance on moving ahead in eu-accession and stresses that it is vital not to reverse earlier achievements in the reform process; notes that the new enlargement methodology foresees both positive and negative conditionality , and the principle of reversibility;


### 6. welcomes recent public opinion surveys , which show that 75 % of the citizens support montenegro’s accession to the eu , which is a clear message to the new government that the people want reforms based on european values; ### 6. welcomes recent public opinion surveys , which show that 75 % of the citizens support montenegro’s accession to the eu , which is a clear message to the new government that the people want reforms based on european values; notes that this is one of the highest rates of public support for the eu in the region;


### 9. takes note of the findings and conclusions of the international observers from the osce odihr , and calls on the authorities to address their recommendations fully; welcomes the government’s adoption of a decision on the establishment of the council for the control of the electoral roll; ### 9. takes note of the findings and conclusions of the international observers from the osce odihr , and calls on the authorities to address their recommendations fully; welcomes the government’s adoption of a decision on the establishment of the council for the control of the electoral roll; notes that the parliament of montenegro passed a decision on the establishment of the committee for comprehensive electoral reform in december 2020; expects the committee for comprehensive electoral reform to begin functioning without any further delay; encourages holding local elections simultaneously across the country in order to bring more stability to montenegro’s democracy and avoid the phenomenon of perpetual campaigning;


### 10. calls on all political forces in the newly elected skupština (parliament) of montenegro to engage in a constructive , meaningful and inclusive dialogue in the parliament , as this is the key to a successful parliamentary democracy; ### 10. calls on all political forces in the newly elected skupština (parliament) of montenegro to engage in a constructive , meaningful and inclusive dialogue in the parliament , as this is the key to a successful parliamentary democracy; reiterates that a functioning parliamentary democracy is based on the participation of both government and opposition in the parliamentary decision-making process; underlines that broad consensus of both the ruling majority and the opposition is fundamental in moving forward on the eu accession path and on reforms; calls on all political parties represented in the parliament to refrain from boycotting the work of parliament; calls on measures aimed at improving dialogue and trust across the political spectrum;


### 11. welcomes the first appointments to montenegro’s delegation to the eu-montenegro stabilisation and association parliamentary committee (sapc); calls for the finalisation of the process and the appointment of members of the opposition as soon as possible; ### 11. welcomes the first appointments to montenegro’s delegation to the eu-montenegro stabilisation and association parliamentary committee (sapc); calls for the finalisation of the process and the appointment of members of the opposition as soon as possible; reiterates that the work of sapc should resume as soon as possible;


### 20. deplores the state of freedom of expression and media freedom , an area in which five successive commission reports have noted ‘no progress’; strongly condemns all types of attacks against the media and intimidation of journalists , and calls for the urgent and effective investigation of these; urges montenegro to provide conditions conducive to the effective exercise of freedom of expression , which is one of the eu’s fundamental values and a crucial element of montenegro’s eu accession process; ### 20. deplores the state of freedom of expression and media freedom , an area in which five successive commission reports have noted ‘no progress’; strongly condemns all types of attacks against the media and intimidation of journalists , and calls for the urgent and effective investigation of these; regrets that some cases of violence against journalists still remain unsolved; urges montenegro to provide conditions conducive to the effective exercise of freedom of expression , which is one of the eu’s fundamental values and a crucial element of montenegro’s eu accession process; underlines the need to strengthen the media environment , including by supporting professionalism of the media and media organisations and improving working conditions for journalists;


### 21. underlines that media literacy and media freedom are key to combating disinformation; calls for the strengthening of european cooperation with montenegro on addressing disinformation , and cyber and hybrid threats; ### 21. underlines that media literacy and media freedom are key to combating disinformation; calls for the strengthening of european cooperation with montenegro on addressing manipulative disinformation , and cyber and hybrid threats that seek to undermine the european perspective of the region; encourages concrete steps in building resilience and cyber security at the time when montenegro faces increasing pressure through foreign interference that seeks to undermine montenegro’s statehood and pro-western orientation;


### 21. underlines that media literacy and media freedom are key to combating disinformation; calls for the strengthening of european cooperation with montenegro on addressing disinformation , and cyber and hybrid threats; ### 21. underlines that media literacy and media freedom are key to combating disinformation; calls for the strengthening of european cooperation with montenegro on addressing disinformation , and cyber and hybrid threats; calls on the eu delegation in montenegro to intensify its efforts in visibility campaigns to combat disinformation as well as in communication strategies to emphasize the role and importance of eu assistance to montenegro;


### 22. strongly condemns verbal and physical attacks against and intimidation of national minorities , especially in pljevlja following the august 2020 parliamentary elections; ### 22. strongly condemns verbal and physical attacks against and intimidation of national minorities , especially in pljevlja following the august 2020 parliamentary elections and recently in berane and niksic;


### 23. takes note of the law on domestic violence protection , and asks for its thorough implementation as gender-based , domestic violence and violence against children remain an issue of serious concern; ### 23. takes note of the law on domestic violence protection , and urges for its thorough implementation as gender-based , domestic violence and violence against children remain an issue of serious concern;


### 24. welcomes progress on the protection of lgbti rights and the adoption of the law on same-sex partnerships; ### 24. welcomes progress on the protection of the rights of lgbti persons and the adoption of the law on same-sex partnerships and calls on authorities to ensure all necessary conditions for its adequate and timely implementation; stresses that the situation of transgender and non-binary persons needs to be improved; urges the collection of disaggregated data relating to hate speech and crime based on sexual orientation and gender identity as recommended by ecri and calls for their effective sanctioning;


### 24. welcomes progress on the protection of lgbti rights and the adoption of the law on same-sex partnerships; ### 24. welcomes progress on the protection of lgbti rights and the adoption of the law on same-sex partnerships; welcomes the peaceful conduct of the pride parade in 2019;


### 26. commends montenegro for its commitment to inclusive regional cooperation , and the constructive role it plays in the western balkans region , and welcomes its active participation in numerous regional initiatives; ### 26. commends montenegro for its commitment to inclusive regional cooperation , and the constructive role it plays in the western balkans region , and welcomes its active participation in numerous regional initiatives; in particular the establishment and implementation of the common regional market , which shall lead the way to the country’s full accession to the european single market;


### 26. commends montenegro for its commitment to inclusive regional cooperation , and the constructive role it plays in the western balkans region , and welcomes its active participation in numerous regional initiatives; ### 26. commends montenegro for its commitment to inclusive regional cooperation , and the constructive role it plays in the western balkans region , and welcomes its active participation in numerous regional initiatives; underlines that regional cooperation and good neighbourly relations are linked to montenegro’s eu perspective;


### 27. commends montenegro’s full alignment with the eu’s common foreign and security policy and its active participation in civilian missions under the common security and defence policy (csdp); ### 27. commends montenegro’s full alignment with the eu’s common foreign and security policy and its active participation in civilian and military missions under the common security and defence policy (csdp) , notably eufor somalia (operation atalanta) and eutm mali;


### 31. notes with concern the impact of the covid-19 pandemic on montenegro’s economy; calls on the government to carry on a responsible macroeconomic and fiscal policy in view of the high public debt; encourages the authorities to make the best use of eu assistance in order to mitigate the impact of the crisis; ### 31. notes with concern the impact of the covid-19 pandemic on montenegro’s economy as its gdp has declined by 14.3% in 2020; stresses that the tourism sector , that accounts for more than 20% of montenegro's gdp , was heavily hit as a consequence of the covid-19 pandemic; calls on the government to carry on a responsible macroeconomic and fiscal policy in view of the high public debt; encourages the authorities to make the best use of eu assistance in order to mitigate the impact of the crisis;


### 32. reiterates that the european union has swiftly mobilised substantial support for the western balkans to tackle the covid-19 pandemic health emergency and the socio-economic recovery of the region; ### 32. reiterates that the european union has swiftly mobilised substantial financial and material support for the western balkans to tackle the covid-19 pandemic health emergency and the socio-economic recovery of the region; notes that the european support to montenegro included €53 million in bilateral assistance from ipa ii , €455 million for regional economic reactivation package and €60 million in macro-financial assistance;


### 32. reiterates that the european union has swiftly mobilised substantial support for the western balkans to tackle the covid-19 pandemic health emergency and the socio-economic recovery of the region; ### 32. reiterates that the european union has swiftly mobilised substantial support for the western balkans to tackle the covid-19 pandemic health emergency and the socio-economic recovery of the region; calls on montenegrin authorities to take into strong consideration the needs of the most vulnerable groups in society such as women , roma and lgbti persons , people with disabilities and other minorities when creating and implementing covid-19 socio-economic relief measures;


### 36. welcomes the positive developments in further aligning montenegro’s national environmental and climate change legislation with the acquis; calls on the authorities to take urgent measures to better safeguard protected areas and potential natura 2000 sites; ### 36. welcomes the positive developments in further aligning montenegro’s national environmental and climate change legislation with the acquis; calls on the authorities to take urgent measures to better safeguard protected areas and potential natura 2000 sites; including ulcinj salina , lake skadar , the tara river and others; recalls that establishing military training and weapons testing area in unesco-protected areas , including the tara river area and the sinjajevina mountain area , must follow unesco principles of socio-cultural and ecological sustainability;


### — having regard to its resolution of 29 april 2021 on blasphemy laws in pakistan , in particular the case of shagufta kausar and shafqat emmanuel9 , ### — having regard to its resolution of 29 april 2021 on blasphemy laws in pakistan , in particular the case of shagufta kausar and shafqat emmanuel9 , its resolution of 14 april 2016 on pakistan , in particular the attack in lahore , and its resolution of 13 december 2018 on iran , notably the case of nasrin sotoudeh ,


### — having regard to its resolution of 29 april 2021 on blasphemy laws in pakistan , in particular the case of shagufta kausar and shafqat emmanuel9 , ### — having regard to its resolution of 29 april 2021 on blasphemy laws in pakistan , in particular the case of shagufta kausar and shafqat emmanuel9 , and asia bibi ,


### c. whereas discrimination and persecution of religious is carried out by different actors – whether governments or other groups in society – and can take different forms , such as killings , physical attacks , arbitrary arrests , coercion , forced conversion , kidnapping and forced marriage , forced birth control , threats , exclusion , discriminatory and unfair treatment , harassment , limitation of access to elective offices , employment , education , health and administration services , destruction of places of worship , cemeteries and cultural heritage , and online hate speech; ### c. whereas discrimination and persecution of religious is carried out by different actors – whether governments or other groups in society – and can take different forms , such as killings , torture , physical attacks , arbitrary arrests , coercion , forced conversion , kidnapping and forced marriage , forced birth control , forced displacement , various forms of human trafficking (slavery , sexual or labour exploitation) , threats , exclusion , discriminatory and unfair treatment , harassment , expropriation of private properties , limitation of access to elective offices , employment , education , health and administration services , destruction of places of worship , cemeteries and cultural heritage , and online hate speech;


### c. whereas discrimination and persecution of religious is carried out by different actors – whether governments or other groups in society – and can take different forms , such as killings , physical attacks , arbitrary arrests , coercion , forced conversion , kidnapping and forced marriage , forced birth control , threats , exclusion , discriminatory and unfair treatment , harassment , limitation of access to elective offices , employment , education , health and administration services , destruction of places of worship , cemeteries and cultural heritage , and online hate speech; ### c. whereas discrimination and persecution of religious is carried out by different actors – whether governments or other groups in society – and can take different forms , such as killings , physical attacks , arbitrary arrests , coercion , forced conversion , kidnapping and forced marriage of young girls , forced abortion , threats , exclusion , discriminatory and unfair treatment , harassment , limitation of access to elective offices , employment , education , health and administration services , destruction of places of worship , cemeteries and cultural heritage , and online hate speech;


### e. whereas in 2018 , christians were harassed in 145 countries , muslims in 139 , jews in 88 , buddhists in 24 , hindus in 19 countries and non-believers in 18 countries12 ; ### deleted


### 1. affirms its unwavering commitment to promoting and protecting the rights of persons belonging to religious minorities everywhere in the world , including their right to change or choose their religion or belief , in respect of the principles of equality and non-discrimination; condemns in the strongest terms all persecution , violence , incitement to violence and terrorism targeting any minority on the grounds of religion and belief; ### 1. affirms its unwavering commitment to promoting and protecting the rights of persons belonging to religious minorities everywhere in the world , including their right to change or choose their religion or belief , or reject it , in respect of the principles of equality and non-discrimination; condemns in the strongest terms all persecution , violence , incitement to violence and terrorism targeting any minority on the grounds of religion and belief , or the lack thereof;


### 1. acknowledges that churches , faith-based organisations (fbos) and religious associations have a major role in the social fabric of developing countries , are important partners in delivering humanitarian assistance to hard-to-reach communities and greatly contribute to sustainable development and to achieving the sdgs , in particular sdgs 3 and 4; further notes that churches and fbos deliver in social sectors where shortcomings in state services are experienced; ### 1. acknowledges that churches , faith-based organisations (fbos) and religious associations play a role in the social fabric of developing countries , are - next to ngos , civil society organisations and humanitarian organisations - important partners in delivering humanitarian assistance to hard-to-reach communities and greatly contribute to sustainable development and to achieving the sdgs , in particular sdgs 3 and 4; further notes that churches and fbos deliver in social sectors where shortcomings in state services are experienced;


### 2. takes the view that , regardless of their religion and belief , it is essential to promote and ensure the inclusion of all citizens in their societies and in political and cultural life; ### 2. takes the view that , regardless of their religion and belief , it is essential to promote and ensure the freedom and dignity of all citizens in their societies and in political and cultural life;


### 2. takes the view that , regardless of their religion and belief , it is essential to promote and ensure the inclusion of all citizens in their societies and in political and cultural life; ### 2. takes the view that , regardless of their religion and belief , it is essential to promote and ensure equal and inclusive citizenship for all in their societies , where the members of religious minorities live , and in political and cultural life;


### 2. takes the view that , regardless of their religion and belief , it is essential to promote and ensure the inclusion of all citizens in their societies and in political and cultural life; ### 2. takes the view that , regardless of their religion and belief , it is essential to promote and ensure the inclusion of all citizens in their societies and in political and cultural life and ensure that their personal rights and freedoms are respected;


### 2. recognises that fbos cover approximately 40 % of healthcare and a significant part of education in sub-saharan africa alone1 , while their role remains mostly unrecognised; ### 2. recognises that fbos cover approximately 40 % of healthcare and a significant part of education in sub-saharan africa alone1 , while their role remains mostly unrecognised , underlines that churches and faith based organisations are contributing to human development;


### 4. is deeply concerned about the rise over the last decade of violence against people belonging to minorities on the grounds of their belief or religion as a global phenomenon , which is intensifying and affecting more and more countries; notes that it affects many religious communities , namely christians (including copts) , jews , muslims (including ahmadis and alevis) , buddhists , hindus and smaller religious groups , such as baha’is , sikhs and zoroastrians , as well as groups of people who are atheists , humanists , agnostics or do not identify with any religion; ### 4. is deeply concerned about the rise over the last decade of violence against people belonging to minorities on the grounds of their belief or religion as a global phenomenon , which is intensifying and affecting more and more countries; notes that it affects many religious communities , namely christians (including copts , assyrians and syrians) , jews , muslims (including uyghurs , ahmadis and alevis) , buddhists , hindus and smaller religious groups , such as baha’is , sikhs and zoroastrians , as well as groups of people who are atheists , humanists , agnostics or do not identify with any religion;


### 5. stresses that among believers’ groups , christians are estimated to constitute the majority of people facing persecution for their faith; underlines that globally around 340 million christians experience high levels of persecution and discrimination , with over 4 500 christians killed for their faith , 4 500 churches and other christian buildings attacked , and over 4 200 believers detained without trial , arrested , sentenced or imprisoned in 2020 alone; is alarmed about the increase in the overall level of discrimination , and especially about the sharp increase in the number of killings compared to 2019; ### 5. stresses that among believers’ groups , christians constitute the majority of people facing persecution for their faith; underlines that globally around 340 million christians experience high levels of persecution and discrimination , with over 4 500 christians killed for their faith , 4 500 churches and other christian buildings attacked , and over 4 200 believers detained without trial , arrested , sentenced or imprisoned in 2020 alone; is alarmed about the increase in the overall level of discrimination , and especially about the sharp increase in the number of killings compared to 2019;


### 5. stresses that among believers’ groups , christians are estimated to constitute the majority of people facing persecution for their faith; underlines that globally around 340 million christians experience high levels of persecution and discrimination , with over 4 500 christians killed for their faith , 4 500 churches and other christian buildings attacked , and over 4 200 believers detained without trial , arrested , sentenced or imprisoned in 2020 alone; is alarmed about the increase in the overall level of discrimination , and especially about the sharp increase in the number of killings compared to 2019; ### 5. stresses that among believers’ groups , christians are estimated to constitute the majority of people facing persecution for their faith; underlines that globally around 340 million christians experience high levels of persecution and discrimination , with over 4 500 christians killed for their faith , 4 500 churches and other christian buildings attacked , and over 4 200 believers detained without trial , arrested , sentenced or imprisoned in 2020 alone; stresses that these are minimum figures since many incidents go unreported; is alarmed about the increase in the overall level of persecution and discrimination , which increased by 19% between 2019 and 2020; and especially about the sharp 60% increase in the number of faith-related killings compared to 2019;


### 5. calls on the commission and the council to make the fight against the persecution of religious minorities a priority in the programming of activities related to eu development assistance , in line with the areas of cooperation for geographic and thematic programmes of ndici-global europe; ### 5. calls on the commission and the council to include the fight against the persecution of religious minorities into the programming of activities related to eu development assistance , in line with the areas of cooperation for geographic and thematic programmes of ndici-global europe;


### 6. is concerned about the persecution and serious human rights violations against muslim minorities; ### 6. is concerned about the persecution and serious human rights violations against muslim minorities; is particularly concerned about the persecution of and discrimination against the rohingya , crackdowns against whom intensified following the democratisation of burma in 2012 , with mosques , schools and homes being torched and the people themselves persecuted; points out that , as a result , they were forced to flee their homes , and a few years later genocide against the rohingya was committed in arakan by burmese buddhist nationalists;


### 6. calls on the eu to develop the necessary reaction and sanction mechanisms to combat effectively violations of freedom of religion or belief , including discrimination or legal restrictions based on religion or belief in its partner countries , as well as any kind of impediment to freedom of religion or belief , freedom of association and freedom of expression. ### 6. calls on the eu to develop the necessary reaction to combat effectively violations of freedom of religion or belief , including discrimination or legal restrictions based on religion or belief in its partner countries , as well as any kind of impediment to freedom of religion or belief , freedom of association and freedom of expression.


### 9. notes with particular concern that persecution of christians is widespread in the middle east , at times amounting to genocide , and has prompted an exodus of christians from the region over the past two decades , resulting in approximately 15 million christians making up 4 % of the population in the middle east and north africa , down from 20 % a century ago; ### 9. notes with particular concern that persecution of christians is widespread in the middle east , at times amounting to genocide , and has prompted an exodus of christians from the region over the past two decades , resulting in approximately 15 million christians making up 4 % of the population in the middle east and north africa , down from 20 % a century ago; is alarmed by the situation in iraq , where there were 1.5 million christians before 2003 , a number now reduced by 87% within one generation to approximately 175 ,000;


### 9. notes with particular concern that persecution of christians is widespread in the middle east , at times amounting to genocide , and has prompted an exodus of christians from the region over the past two decades , resulting in approximately 15 million christians making up 4 % of the population in the middle east and north africa , down from 20 % a century ago; ### 9. notes with particular concern that persecution of christians is widespread in the middle east , at times amounting to genocide , and has prompted an exodus of christians from the region over the past two decades , resulting in approximately 15 million christians making up 4 % of the population in the middle east and north africa , down from 20 % a century ago; stresses in this respect the inalienable right to stay of discriminated and persecuted religious communities in their homelands;


### 10. strongly deplores that millions of christians have been uprooted from their homes , and that many have been killed , kidnapped , imprisoned , discriminated against and have had restrictions placed on their freedom of worship; notes that forms of persecution also exist in all aspects of social life , including in employment and education; ### 10. strongly condemns the fact that millions of christians have been uprooted from their homes , and that many have been killed , kidnapped , imprisoned , discriminated against and have had restrictions placed on their freedom of worship; notes that forms of persecution also exist in all aspects of social life , including in employment and education;


### 11. recalls the crimes against humanity and war crimes were committed in iraq and syria by the so-called ‘isis/daesh’ against christians , yazidis , muslims and other religious and ethnic minorities in the territories under its control during the period 2014-2020; ### 11. recalls the genocides , crimes against humanity and war crimes were committed in iraq and syria by the so-called ‘isis/daesh’ against christians , yazidis , muslims and other religious and ethnic minorities in the territories under its control during the period 2014-2020;


### 11. recalls the crimes against humanity and war crimes were committed in iraq and syria by the so-called ‘isis/daesh’ against christians , yazidis , muslims and other religious and ethnic minorities in the territories under its control during the period 2014-2020; ### 11. recalls the crimes against humanity and war crimes , within the meaning of the rome statute of the international criminal court (icc) , were committed in iraq and syria by the so-called ‘isis/daesh’ against christians , yazidis , muslims and other religious and ethnic minorities in the territories under its control during the period 2014-2020;


### 13. notes with particular concern that the middle east and north africa present the highest regional levels of anti-semitic attitudes , and that holocaust denial is prevalent among certain segments in society and even at state level , such as in iran; ### 13. notes with particular concern that the middle east and north africa present the highest regional levels of anti-semitic attitudes , and that holocaust denial is prevalent among certain segments in society and even at state level , such as in iran; therefore , reiterates its call for the european external action service (eeas) to further strengthen its capacities to counter disinformation , hybrid warfare and propaganda , including through the creation of a dedicated stratcom task force focused on the middle east , and iran in particular;


### 16. notes that persecution of religious minorities in asia is commonplace in many countries , especially in those with communist regimes , and that blasphemy laws are of particular concern , particularly in pakistan; ### 16. notes that persecution of religious minorities in asia is commonplace in many countries , especially in those with communist regimes , and that blasphemy laws are of particular concern , particularly in pakistan , that disproportionately target minorities , including christians and hindus; notes that in addition to the penalties , these laws create an environment and pretext that lead to riots and mob violence against religious minorities’ communities and neighbourhoods as well as their temples , which create intimidation and social unrest among them;


### 16. notes that persecution of religious minorities in asia is commonplace in many countries , especially in those with communist regimes , and that blasphemy laws are of particular concern , particularly in pakistan; ### 16. notes that persecution of religious minorities in asia is commonplace in many countries , especially in those with communist regimes , and that blasphemy laws are a cause of particular concern and fear and severely restrict freedom of expression , particularly in pakistan , where any attempts to amend or reform the laws have been stifled by threats and assassinations , and efforts to raise the issue in the media are met with threats , including from government representatives;


### 17. deplores the crimes against muslim communities in asia , including the past and current human rights abuses against the muslim rohingya population; ### 17. deplores the crimes against muslim communities in asia , including the past and current human rights abuses against the muslim rohingya population; recognises the ongoing genocide against the uyghurs and other ethnic and religious minority groups in xinjiang , china; condemns in the strongest possible terms china’s crimes against humanity;


### 18. is concerned about the situation of buddhists; takes special note of the difficult situation faced by buddhists in vietnam; ### 18. is concerned about the situation of buddhists; takes special note of the difficult situation faced by buddhists in vietnam and tibet; condemns the intensified surveillance and control of the tibetan monastic community as well as chinese government interferences in tibetan buddhism’s unique culture;


### 20. strongly condemns terror attacks on places of worship , including the easter attacks in sri lanka in 2019 , when nine suicide bombers carried out a series of attacks , including on three churches; ### 20. strongly condemns terror attacks on places of worship , including the easter attacks in sri lanka in 2019 , when nine suicide bombers carried out a series of attacks , including on three churches; notes with concern the persecution of christians in certain countries in asia , where one in three christians is facing some level of persecution and there has been an increase in cases of christians convicted for professing their faith;


### 22. strongly condemns , in this regard , the violence , including murder , kidnapping and burning of places of worship , committed by terrorist and militant groups against christian and muslim communities in nigeria , mozambique and the central african republic; ### 22. strongly condemns , in this regard , the violence , including murder , kidnapping , in particular , this of leah sharibu who , to this day , is still missing , and burning of places of worship , committed by terrorist and militant groups against christian and muslim communities in nigeria , mozambique , democratic republic of the congo and the central african republic;


### 23. stresses the paramount importance of holding accountable perpetrators of human rights abuses against persons belonging to religious minorities; calls on the eu and member states to urgently work towards the establishment of un mechanisms and committees to investigate current human rights violations against religious minorities around the world; ### 23. stresses the paramount importance of holding accountable perpetrators of human rights abuses against persons belonging to religious minorities; calls on the eu and member states to urgently work towards the establishment of un mechanisms and committees to investigate current human rights violations against religious minorities around the world; therefore , reiterates its call for immediate actions to address the growing human rights crisis in xinjiang , at least to investigate the reported ethnic and religious persecution across the region; calls in this regard for the establishment of an independent un monitoring mechanism on human rights in china , which could include a un special rapporteur , a hrc panel of experts or a special envoy; supports calls for the unhrc to hold a special session on the crisis;


### 23. stresses the paramount importance of holding accountable perpetrators of human rights abuses against persons belonging to religious minorities; calls on the eu and member states to urgently work towards the establishment of un mechanisms and committees to investigate current human rights violations against religious minorities around the world; ### 23. stresses the paramount importance of holding accountable perpetrators of human rights abuses against persons belonging to religious minorities; calls on the eu and member states to urgently work towards the establishment of un mechanisms and committees to investigate current human rights violations against religious minorities around the world; and calls for support for the role of the international criminal court in dealing with the most serious crimes;


### 24. calls on the council and eu member states to apply sanctions against individuals and entities responsible for or involved in systematic violations of the rights of persons belonging to religious minorities , as provided for by the eu global human rights sanctions regime; ### 24. calls on the council and eu member states to apply more sanctions against individuals and entities responsible for or involved in systematic violations of the rights of persons belonging to religious minorities , more efficiently using the eu global human rights sanctions regime;


### 26. underlines that women belonging to religious minorities have been specifically and increasingly targeted with the purpose of inflicting harm on their community as a whole; stresses that they are particularly exposed to violent attacks , kidnapping , sexual violence , forced conversion , forced and early marriage and domestic incarceration , and that lockdown measures taken during the covid-19 pandemic have made their human rights situation even more precarious; ### 26. underlines that women and girls belonging to religious minorities have been specifically and increasingly targeted with the purpose of inflicting harm on their community as a whole; stresses that they are particularly exposed to violent attacks , kidnapping , sexual violence , forced conversion , forced and early marriage and domestic incarceration , and that lockdown measures taken during the covid-19 pandemic have made their human rights situation even more precarious , as well as further restricting access to information and contact with them;


### 27. condemns the use by authoritarian regimes of legislation on security , sedition and the fight against terrorism and extremism as an instrument to persecute persons belonging to religious minorities , to outlaw the practise or expression of their religion and gatherings of believers , and to deter the registration of religious associations; calls on the commission and european external action service (eeas) to monitor carefully the implementation of such legislation , and to consistently raise this issue in bilateral dialogues with the governments concerned; urges eu member states to reject any request by foreign authorities for judicial and police cooperation in individual judicial cases if they are based on such legislation; ### 27. condemns the use by authoritarian regimes of legislation on security , sedition and the fight against terrorism and extremism as an instrument to persecute persons belonging to religious minorities , to outlaw the practise or expression of their religion and gatherings of believers , and to deter the registration of religious associations or finding pretexts for closing churches such as in china and algeria; calls on the commission and european external action service (eeas) to monitor carefully the implementation of such legislation , and to consistently raise this issue in bilateral dialogues with the governments concerned; urges eu member states to reject any request by foreign authorities for judicial and police cooperation in individual judicial cases if they are based on such legislation;


### 27. condemns the use by authoritarian regimes of legislation on security , sedition and the fight against terrorism and extremism as an instrument to persecute persons belonging to religious minorities , to outlaw the practise or expression of their religion and gatherings of believers , and to deter the registration of religious associations; calls on the commission and european external action service (eeas) to monitor carefully the implementation of such legislation , and to consistently raise this issue in bilateral dialogues with the governments concerned; urges eu member states to reject any request by foreign authorities for judicial and police cooperation in individual judicial cases if they are based on such legislation; ### 27. condemns the use by authoritarian regimes of legislation on security , sedition and the fight against terrorism and extremism as an instrument to persecute persons belonging to religious minorities , to outlaw the practise or expression of their religion and gatherings of believers , and to deter the registration of or finding pretexts for the closure of religious associations; calls on the commission and european external action service (eeas) to monitor carefully the implementation of such legislation , and to consistently raise this issue in bilateral dialogues with the governments concerned; urges eu member states to reject any request by foreign authorities for judicial and police cooperation in individual judicial cases if they are based on such legislation;


### 28. deplores the fact that more than 70 countries in the world enforce criminal laws or seek to introduce new legislation which provide for punishments for blasphemy , apostasy and conversion , including the death sentence; notes that laws already in place are used disproportionately against people belonging to religious minorities , and are thus seen , with good reason , as an instrument of oppression; calls for the eu to intensify its political dialogue with all countries concerned with a view to repeal those laws; ### 28. deplores the fact that more than 70 countries in the world enforce criminal laws or seek to introduce new legislation which provide for punishments for blasphemy , apostasy and conversion , including the death sentence; notes that laws already in place are used disproportionately against people belonging to religious minorities , and are thus seen , with good reason , as an instrument of oppression; calls for the eu to intensify its political dialogue with all countries concerned with a view to repeal those laws; underlines that converts leaving a majority faith often experience the most severe violations including imprisonment , forced divorce , abduction , physical violence and murder;


### 29. welcomes the recent appointment of mr christos stylianides as the eu special envoy for the promotion of freedom of religion or belief; calls on the commission to include objectives for the fight against persecution of minorities on the grounds of belief or religion as important part of his mandate; recommends that the special envoy works closely with the eu special representative for human rights and the council working group on human rights (cohom) , and reiterates its calls on the council and the commission to adequately support the special envoy’s institutional mandate , capacity and duties; ### 29. particularly welcomes the recent appointment of mr christos stylianides as the eu special envoy for the promotion of freedom of religion or belief; calls on the commission to include objectives for the fight against persecution of minorities on the grounds of belief or religion as important part of his mandate; recommends that the special envoy works closely with the eu special representative for human rights and the council working group on human rights (cohom) , and reiterates its calls on the council and the commission to adequately support the special envoy’s institutional mandate , capacity and duties , and provide him with the necessary resources;


### 29. welcomes the recent appointment of mr christos stylianides as the eu special envoy for the promotion of freedom of religion or belief; calls on the commission to include objectives for the fight against persecution of minorities on the grounds of belief or religion as important part of his mandate; recommends that the special envoy works closely with the eu special representative for human rights and the council working group on human rights (cohom) , and reiterates its calls on the council and the commission to adequately support the special envoy’s institutional mandate , capacity and duties; ### 29. welcomes the recent appointment of mr christos stylianides as the eu special envoy for the promotion of freedom of religion or belief; calls on the commission to include objectives for the fight against persecution of minorities on the grounds of belief or religion as important part of his mandate; recommends that the special envoy works closely with the eu special representative for human rights and the council working group on human rights (cohom) , and reiterates its calls on the council and the commission to adequately support the special envoy’s institutional mandate , capacity and duties with adequate financial and human resources;


### 29. welcomes the recent appointment of mr christos stylianides as the eu special envoy for the promotion of freedom of religion or belief; calls on the commission to include objectives for the fight against persecution of minorities on the grounds of belief or religion as important part of his mandate; recommends that the special envoy works closely with the eu special representative for human rights and the council working group on human rights (cohom) , and reiterates its calls on the council and the commission to adequately support the special envoy’s institutional mandate , capacity and duties; ### 29. welcomes the recent appointment of mr christos stylianides as the eu special envoy for the promotion of freedom of religion or belief; calls on the commission to include objectives for the fight against persecution of minorities on the grounds of belief or religion as important part of his mandate; recommends that the special envoy works closely with the eu special representative for human rights and the council working group on human rights (cohom) , and reiterates its calls on the council and the commission to adequately support the special envoy’s institutional mandate , capacity and duties; regrets that the special envoy position was left vacant for more than a year before the appointment of mr christos stylianides; believes that the position should always be renewed as soon as possible;


### 30. calls on the council , the commission , eeas and eu member states to address persecutions based on belief or religion as a priority of eu human rights foreign policy , in line with the eu action plan for human rights and democracy for 2020-2024; stresses that a multi-layered and multi-actor approach is needed to protect and promote freedom of religion or belief , encompassing human rights , conflict resolution and interfaith initiatives that involve multiple state and non-state actors; reiterates its call for a public review of the eu guidelines on freedom of religion or belief , allowing for the assessment of their implementation and of proposals for their update; also calls for progress reports on the implementation of the guidelines to be communicated regularly to parliament; ### 30. calls on the council , the commission , eeas and eu member states to address persecutions based on belief or religion as a priority of eu human rights foreign policy , in line with the eu action plan for human rights and democracy for 2020-2024; stresses that a multi-layered and multi-actor approach is needed to protect and promote freedom of religion or belief , encompassing human rights , conflict resolution and interfaith initiatives that involve multiple state and non-state actors; reiterates its call for a public review of the eu guidelines on freedom of religion or belief , allowing for the assessment of their implementation and of proposals for their update; notes that the eu guidelines provide for an evaluation of their implementation by cohom after a period of three years , and that no such evaluation has been communicated or made public; also calls for progress reports on the implementation of the guidelines to be communicated regularly to parliament; considers that such evaluation should highlight best practices , identify areas for improvement , and provide concrete recommendations on implementation , in accordance with a specified timeline and milestones and subject to regular annual evaluation; calls for the evaluation to be included in the eu annual reports on human rights and democracy in the world;


### 32. calls on the commission and eeas to scrutinise the human rights situations of religious minorities in third countries and the implementation of related commitments under bilateral agreements of those countries with the eu; ### 32. calls on the commission and eeas to closer scrutinise the human rights situations of religious minorities in third countries and the implementation of related commitments under bilateral agreements of those countries with the eu;


### 33. recommends strengthening eu multilateral engagement with like-minded states and other actors with a view to promoting and mainstreaming the respect for religious minorities in human rights policies everywhere in the world; calls for the eu and eu member states to enhance cooperation with the un , the council of europe and the organization for security and co-operation in europe (osce) , to intensify its dialogues with the african union and the organisation of islamic cooperation , and to forge alliances with third countries in order to provide international responses to human rights issues faced by religious minorities , in particular those who are most vulnerable or targeted in conflict areas; also recommends that the eu continue to be the lead sponsor of resolutions on freedom of thought , conscience , religion or belief in the un general assembly and the un human rights council; ### 33. recommends strengthening eu multilateral engagement with like-minded states and other actors with a view to promoting and mainstreaming the respect for religious minorities in human rights policies everywhere in the world; recommends that special envoys for freedom of religion or belief throughout eu member states share their best practices and work closely together; calls for the eu and eu member states to enhance cooperation with the un , the council of europe and the organization for security and co-operation in europe (osce) , to intensify its dialogues with the african union and the organisation of islamic cooperation , and to forge alliances with third countries in order to provide international responses to human rights issues faced by religious minorities , in particular those who are most vulnerable or targeted in conflict areas; also recommends that the eu continue to be the lead sponsor of resolutions on freedom of thought , conscience , religion or belief in the un general assembly and the un human rights council;


### b. whereas the transition to a climate-neutral economy requires an energy transition away from fossil fuels towards a renewable-based system; ### b. whereas the transition to a climate-neutral economy requires affordable and efficient energy by eliminating fossil fuels based on cost effective technologies towards a low carbon and renewable energy sources system , thus ensuring affordable prices to eu consumers and industry;


### c. whereas most renewable electricity sources , such as wind and solar , are intermittent and variable; whereas the integration of variable renewable energy sources into the electricity system requires increased flexibility regarding supply and demand; ### c. whereas most renewable electricity sources , such as wind and solar , are intermittent and variable; whereas the integration of variable renewable energy sources into the electricity system requires increased flexibility regarding supply and demand in order to ensure security of supply;


### 2. calls on the commission to develop a comprehensive strategy on energy storage; ### 2. calls on the commission to develop a comprehensive strategy on energy storage as part of the smart sector integration , taking into consideration both the short-term and the long-term perspective and in close cooperation with the private sector and research and innovation clusters;


### 4. notes that the energy transition towards a renewable-based system requires a well-developed electricity grid and advanced storage technologies , backup generation and demand management in order to secure a constant power supply; ### 4. notes that a cost-efficient energy transition towards a law carbon energy system , largely based on renewable energy sources ,requires a well-developed and optimised electricity and gas grid and advanced storage technologies for both electrons and molecules , backup generation and demand management in order to provide a secure , affordable and sustainable energy supply;


### 5. underlines that the transition to a climate-neutral economy must not endanger security of supply; stresses that reliable power supply and the energy transition must go hand in hand; ### 5. underlines that the transition to a climate-neutral economy must not endanger security of supply , technology neutrality , efficiency and price affordability; stresses that reliable energy supply and technology cost-effectiveness and the energy transition must go hand in hand;


### 6. deeply regrets that infrastructure projects which are crucial to the energy transition often face strong resistance at local level; encourages the member states to actively encourage public support at the local level , for instance through early public participation; ### 6. deeply regrets that both infrastructure and large storage projects which are crucial to the energy transition often face strong resistance at local level; calls the member states to actively encourage and communicate public support at the local level , for instance through early public participation as well as providing guidelines as regards potential goal conflicts created by other eu legislation; participation of public bodies in competitive activities should be last resort , limited in time , subject to the scrutiny of nras and adjusted to the eu energy regulations in place;


### 7. points out that most member states require operators of storage facilities to pay network charges or energy taxes twice; is convinced that the abolishment of this burden would lead to more energy storage projects being deployed; calls on the commission to prohibit the double taxation related to energy storage projects in its upcoming proposal for a revised energy taxation directive; calls on the member states to abolish any kind of double taxation or charges related to energy storage projects; ### 7. points out that most member states require operators of storage facilities to pay network charges or energy taxes , including paying them twice; is convinced that the abolishment of this burden would lead to energy storage projects being deployed efficiently; calls on the commission to develop an efficient taxation system and prohibit the double taxation related to energy storage projects in its upcoming proposal for a revised energy taxation directive; calls on the member states to develop an efficient taxation and charges system , including abolish any kind of inefficient double taxation or charges related to energy storage projects;


### 8. urgently calls for a revision of the ten-e regulation17 before the adoption of the next list of projects of common interest (pci); calls for the criteria for granting pci status to be aligned with the eu’s climate and sustainability goals; ### 8. urgently calls for a revision of the ten-e regulation17before the adoption of the next list of projects of common interest (pci); calls for the criteria for granting pci status to be aligned , besides existing criteria of security of supply , sustainability , market integration and competition , with the eu’s climate goals through supporting investment in low-carbon gases such as hydrogen , biomethane , and synthetic methane , the transport of co2 for utilisation or storage , and natural gas in a transition phase;


### 9. notes with concern that approval procedures at national level take considerably longer than the maximum periods for pci projects provided for by the ten-e regulation; calls on the commission to address this issue in its upcoming review through an effective enforcement mechanism; ### 9. notes with concern that approval procedures at national level take considerably longer than the maximum periods for pci projects provided for by the ten-e regulation; calls on the commission to address this issue in its upcoming review through an effective and synchronised enforcement mechanism;


### 10. regrets the lack of market deployment of research projects under horizon 2020 , and welcomes the planned greater focus on close-to-market activities under horizon europe , in particular through the creation of the european innovation council; calls for greater use of pre-commercial procurement; ### 10. regrets the lack of market deployment of research projects under horizon 2020 , and welcomes the planned greater focus on close-to-market activities under horizon europe , in particular through the creation of the european innovation council; calls for greater use of pre-commercial procurement; highlights the importance of enhancing funding on research and innovation encouraging the involvement of the industry , in order to accelerate technological developments and to provide potentially a flexible play field; research in clean and low-carbon technology needs to be stepped up including in energy storage;


### 11. notes that that there is only an indirect reference to energy storage projects in the guidelines on state aid for environmental protection and energy 2014-2020; notes , furthermore , that astonishingly few state aid measures for storage projects have been notified in the past; ### 11. notes that energy storage projects are already indirectly covered in the guidelines on state aid for environmental protection and energy 2014-2020 as storage contributes to secure a constant energy supply complementary to other technologies and techniques such as demand side response , optimization and digitization of energy grids , back up generation , power-to-gas , or even improved techniques for the forecast , operation and control of renewable energy systems;


### 12. calls on the commission to take into account the important role of storage in the energy transition when reviewing the state aid guidelines; calls on the commission to make sure that the new guidelines take into account the efficiency and the contribution to grid stability of different storage technologies , so that inefficient funding is avoided; ### 12. calls on the commission to take into account the important role of storage in the energy transition when reviewing the state aid guidelines; the planned revision of state aid guidelines should reflect the policy objectives of the european green deal and aims at reinforcing and simplifying investment in sustainable solutions , ensuring a rapid phase-out of direct and indirect energy subsidies , notably for coal and fossil fuel in the union and providing guidelines fully consistent with ghg reduction and environmental objectives for national , regional and local authorities , whose role will be instrumental in an effective and innovative implementation of the european green deal;


### power to gas ### power to x


### 13. acknowledges the high potential of green hydrogen for energy storage and as feedstock for energy-intensive industries; ### 13. acknowledges the essential role of renewable and decarbonised electricity and gases , including hydrogen for energy storage and the decarbonisation of industry , heat and mobility as well as a sustainable feedstock for industrial and chemical processes;


### 14. notes that there are varying standards in the member states as regards the blending of hydrogen with natural gas; calls , therefore , on the commission to develop minimum blending standards for hydrogen both for the gas grid and end uses; ### 14. notes that there are varying standards in the member states as regards the blending of hydrogen with natural gas; calls ,therefore , on the commission to develop minimum blending standards for hydrogen both for the gas grid and end uses , considering each country’s specificities as well as the specific interests of end-consumers;


### 15. calls on the commission to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the cost of retrofitting gas infrastructure for the use of green hydrogen; ### 15. calls on the commission to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the hydrogen computability of existing gas infrastructure (gas pipelines , underground storages and lng terminals) and end-use appliances and the costs and benefits of retrofitting , where necessary , gas infrastructure and end-use appliances for the use of green hydrogen (either in pure or blended , gaseous or liquid forms);


### 16. is convinced that batteries will play a crucial role in ensuring a stable electricity supply; ### 16. is convinced that a range of battery technologies , including those with already well-established value chains in the eu , will play a crucial role in ensuring a stable electricity supply , including batteries in electric vehicles; stresses that energy storage technologies are of crucial importance to guarantee the eu strategic autonomy and its resilience in electricity supply;


### 17. is concerned that the eu has a very low battery manufacturing capacity; welcomes , therefore , the european battery alliance and the strategic action plan on batteries; calls for continuous support for them and for the implementation of the strategic action plan on batteries to be strengthened; welcomes , in this respect , the commission’s announcement that it will propose legislation on batteries in support of the strategic action plan and the circular economy; calls , in this regard , for life cycle analysis of batteries; ### 17. is concerned that the eu has a very low lithium-ion battery manufacturing capacity and being reliant on production sourced outside europe with limited transparency; welcomes , therefore , the european battery alliance and the strategic action plan on batteries; calls for its expansion to cover all available battery technologies; calls for continuous support for them and for the implementation of the strategic action plan on batteries to be strengthened , in line with broader objectives in terms of circular economy , industrial strategy and chemicals management; welcomes , in this respect , the commission’s announcement that it will propose legislation on batteries in support of the strategic action plan and the circular economy; calls , in this regard , for life cycle analysis of batteries and promoting the introduction of carbon footprint label declaring environmental impact of all batteries placed on the european market;


### 18. is concerned about the eu’s heavy dependence on imports of raw materials for battery production; is convinced that enhanced recycling schemes for batteries could deliver a significant share of the raw materials required for battery production within the eu; ### 18. is concerned about the eu’s heavy dependence on imports of raw materials for lithium-ion battery production; is convinced that enhanced recycling schemes for batteries could deliver a significant share of the raw materials required for battery production within the eu; notes that the eu-based automotive and industrial battery value-chain has a track record of collection and recycling almost all existing used batteries in a closed loop process , in line with the circular economy principles , and export limitations in the battery legislation could be strengthened in order to encourage more recycling of crms within europe;


### 19. acknowledges the potential for used electric vehicle batteries to be reused for energy storage in private homes or in larger battery units; is concerned that the classification of used batteries as waste in the batteries directive , independent of reuse , can act as a barrier to such reuse; ### 19. acknowledges the potential for used electric vehicle batteries to be reused for energy storage in private homes or in larger battery units; is concerned that the classification of used batteries as waste in the batteries directive , independent of reuse , can act as a barrier to such reuse; recognises that reused batteries are not returned for recycling in the end of their life; and that safety standards are not controlled when a battery is repurposed to applications with different characteristics than originally designed for; calls on the commission to forward the producer responsibility with performance and safety guarantees to the remanufacturer reintroducing the battery to the market; calls on the commission to clarify the extended producer responsibility schemes (epr) related to reused batteries;


### 20. calls on the commission to consider a recycling target for lithium-ion batteries when revising the batteries directive; ### 20. calls on the commission to consider a recycling target for lithium-ion batteries based on critical metal fractions when revising the batteries directive;


### 23. points out that in order to strengthen environmental protection , updates of existing facilities and higher capacity projects should be prioritised; ### 23. points out that in order to strengthen environmental protection , updates of existing facilities and higher capacity projects should be prioritised as well as financial support to the small and medium scales projects to the member states that have the potential;


### 24. considers district heating to be a very efficient tool for energy storage and residential heating in densely populated areas; calls on the commission and the member states to support and develop district heating networks; ### 24. considers district heating to be a very efficient tool for energy storage and residential heating in densely populated areas; calls on the commission and the member states to support and develop district heating networks along with new heat production technologies;


### 25. welcomes the fact that district heating and cooling networks will be eligible for funding under the revised cef regulation and calls for their inclusion as potential pcis under the ten-e regulation; ### 25. underlines that public and industrial sectors building energy upgrade should be eligible for funding under the revised cef regulation and calls for their inclusion as potential pcis under the ten-e regulation;


### 26. believes that home batteries , domestic heat storage , vehicle-to-grid technology and demand response help to cut consumption peaks , provide flexibility and are playing an increasingly important role in ensuring that the energy grid is efficient and integrated; ### 26. believes that home batteries , domestic heat storage , vehicle-to-grid technology , smart home energy systems and demand response help to cut consumption peaks , provide flexibility and are playing an increasingly important role in ensuring that the energy grid is efficient and integrated; early standardisation of new devices , consumer information and transparency of consumers` data and well-functioning electricity markets providing easy access for consumers will be key to achieve this; notes the importance of encouraging the role of consumers;


### (5) the initiative aims to reinforce the competitiveness and resilience of the semiconductor technological and industrial base , whilst strengthening the innovation capacity of its semiconductor ecosystem , reducing dependence on a limited number of third country companies and geographies , and strengthening its capacity to design and produce advanced components. these aims should be supported by bridging the gap between the union’s advanced research and innovation capabilities and their industrial exploitation. it should promote capacity building to enable design , production and systems integration in next-generation semiconductor technologies , enhance collaboration among key players across the union , strengthening europe’s semiconductor supply and value chains , serving key industrial sectors , and creating new markets. ### (5) the initiative aims to reinforce the competitiveness and resilience of the semiconductor technological and industrial base , whilst strengthening the innovation capacity of its semiconductor ecosystem , reducing dependence on a limited number of third country companies and geographies , and strengthening its capacity to design and produce advanced components. these aims should be supported by bridging the gap between the union’s advanced research and innovation capabilities and their industrial exploitation. it should promote capacity building to enable design , production and systems integration in next-generation semiconductor technologies , such as integrated photonics and quantum technologies , enhance collaboration among key players across the union , strengthening europe’s semiconductor supply and value chains , serving key industrial sectors , and creating new markets.


### build advanced technology and engineering capacities for accelerating the development of quantum chips. ### build advanced technology and engineering capacities for accelerating the development of photonic and quantum chips.