### 4. member states shall ensure that complainants are entitled ### 4. in case the notification proves to be well founded , member states shall ensure that informants are entitled to request appropriate follow-up on the notification from the company with which they have filed a notification pursuant to paragraph 1.


### 4. member states shall ensure that complainants are entitled ### 4. member states shall ensure that companies make their complaints mechanisms easily accessible and provide for a publicly available description of the procedures referred to in paragraph 3 , and that complainants are entitled


### 4. member states shall ensure that complainants are entitled ### 4. member states shall ensure that informants are entitled to request appropriate follow-up on the notification from the company with which they have filed a notification pursuant to paragraph 1.


### to request appropriate follow-up on the complaint from the company with which they have filed a complaint pursuant to paragraph 1 , and ### deleted


### to request appropriate follow-up on the complaint from the company with which they have filed a complaint pursuant to paragraph 1 , and ### to request appropriate follow-up on the complaint from the company with which they have filed a complaint pursuant to paragraph 1.


### to request appropriate follow-up on the complaint from the company with which they have filed a complaint pursuant to paragraph 1 , and ### to request appropriate follow-up on the complaint from the company with which they have filed a complaint pursuant to paragraph 1 , including information on clear time indications for the processing of the complaint , and


### article 15 ### deleted


### [...] ### deleted


### in accordance with article 3 of the universal declaration of human rights , article 5 of the international covenant on civil and political rights and article 12 of the international covenant on economic , social and cultural rights; ### in accordance with article 3 of the universal declaration of human rights , articles 5 and 27 of the international covenant on civil and political rights and article 12 of the international covenant on economic , social and cultural rights;


### 20. violation of the indigenous peoples’ right to the lands , territories and resources which they have traditionally owned , occupied or otherwise used or acquired in accordance with article 25 , 26 (1) and (2) , 27 , and 29 (2) of the united nations declaration on the rights of indigenous peoples; ### 20. (does not affect english version.)


### human rights and fundamental freedoms conventions ### human rights and fundamental freedoms conventions to which the eu is a signatory


### preventing potential adverse impacts ### addressing potential adverse impacts


### preventing potential adverse impacts ### preventing and mitigating potential adverse impacts


### combating climate change ### combating climate change and protecting the environment


### 3. inspections shall be conducted in compliance with the national law of the member state in which the inspection is carried out and with prior warning to the company , except where prior notification hinders the effectiveness of the inspection. where , as part of its investigation , a supervisory authority wishes to carry out an inspection on the territory of a member state other than its own , it shall seek assistance from the supervisory authority in that member state pursuant to article 21(2). ### 3. inspections shall be conducted in compliance with the national law of the member state in which the inspection is carried out and with prior warning to the company. where , as part of its investigation , a supervisory authority wishes to carry out an inspection on the territory of a member state other than its own , it shall seek assistance from the supervisory authority in that member state pursuant to article 21(2).


### 3. inspections shall be conducted in compliance with the national law of the member state in which the inspection is carried out and with prior warning to the company , except where prior notification hinders the effectiveness of the inspection. where , as part of its investigation , a supervisory authority wishes to carry out an inspection on the territory of a member state other than its own , it shall seek assistance from the supervisory authority in that member state pursuant to article 21(2). ### 3. inspections shall be conducted in compliance with the national law of the member state in which the inspection is carried out and with prior warning to the company , except where prior notification hinders the effectiveness of the inspection or significantly reduces it. where , as part of its investigation , a supervisory authority wishes to carry out an inspection on the territory of a member state other than its own , it shall seek assistance from the supervisory authority in that member state pursuant to article 21(2).


### 7. member states shall ensure that each natural or legal person has the right to an effective judicial remedy against a legally binding decision by a supervisory authority concerning them. ### 7. without prejudice to member state rules on companies’ right to court appeal and other relevant safeguards member states shall ensure that each natural or legal person has the right to an effective judicial remedy against a legally binding decision by a supervisory authority concerning them in accordance with national law.


### article 22 ### deleted


### member states shall ensure that companies applying for public support certify that no sanctions have been imposed on them for a failure to comply with the obligations of this directive. ### deleted


### 1. member states shall ensure that , when fulfilling their duty to act in the best interest of the company , directors of companies referred to in article 2(1) take into account the consequences of their decisions for sustainability matters , including , where applicable , human rights , climate change and environmental consequences , including in the short , medium and long term. ### deleted


### 1. member states shall ensure that , when fulfilling their duty to act in the best interest of the company , directors of companies referred to in article 2(1) take into account the consequences of their decisions for sustainability matters , including , where applicable , human rights , climate change and environmental consequences , including in the short , medium and long term. ### 1. member states shall ensure that , when fulfilling their duty to act in the best interest of the company , directors of companies referred to in article 2(1) integrate climate risks and potential and actual adverse impacts identified pursuant to this directive into their decisions for sustainability matters , including , where applicable , human rights , climate change and environmental consequences , including in the short , medium and long term.


### 2. member states shall ensure that their laws , regulations and administrative provisions providing for a breach of directors’ duties apply also to the provisions of this article. ### deleted


### from… [oj to insert: 2 years from the entry into force of this directive] as regards companies referred to in article 2(1) , point (a) , and article 2(2) , point (a); ### from… [oj to insert: 4 years from the entry into force of this directive] as regards companies referred to in article 2(1) , point (a) , and article 2(2) , point (a);


### from… [oj to insert: 2 years from the entry into force of this directive] as regards companies referred to in article 2(1) , point (a) , and article 2(2) , point (a); ### from… [oj to insert: 5 years from the entry into force of this directive] as regards companies referred to in article 2(1) , point (a) , and article 2(2) , point (a);


### from … [oj to insert: 4 years from the entry into force of this directive] as regards companies referred to in article 2(1) , point (b) , and article 2(2) , point (b). ### deleted


### from … [oj to insert: 4 years from the entry into force of this directive] as regards companies referred to in article 2(1) , point (b) , and article 2(2) , point (b). ### from … [oj to insert: 7 years from the entry into force of this directive] as regards companies referred to in article 2(1) , point (b) , and article 2(2) , point (b).


### this directive shall enter into force on the twentieth day following that of its publication in the official journal of the european union. ### 1. this directive shall enter into force on the twentieth day following that of its publication in the official journal of the european union.


### 1. violation of the people's right to dispose of a land's natural resources and to not be deprived of means of subsistence in accordance with article 1 of the international covenant on civil and political rights; ### 1. violation of nations’ right to freely dispose of their land's natural resources and to not be deprived of means of subsistence in accordance with article 1 of the international covenant on civil and political rights;


### — the united nations declaration on the rights of indigenous peoples; ### — (does not affect english version.)


### ii [...] ### deleted


### 1. violation of the obligation to take the necessary measures related to the use of biological resources in order to avoid or minimize adverse impacts on biological diversity , in line with article 10 (b) of the 1992 convention on biological diversity and [taking into account possible amendments following the post 2020 un convention on biological diversity] , including the obligations of the cartagena protocol on the development , handling , transport , use , transfer and release of living modified organisms and of the nagoya protocol on access to genetic resources and the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from their utilization to the convention on biological diversity of 12 october 2014; ### 1. violation of the obligation to take the necessary measures related to the use of biological resources in order to avoid or minimize adverse impacts on biological diversity , in line with article 10 (b) of the 1992 convention on biological diversity and [taking into account possible amendments following the post 2020 un convention on biological diversity] and with the eu biodiversity strategy for 2030 and its associated action plan , including the obligations of the cartagena protocol on the development , handling , transport , use , transfer and release of living modified organisms and of the nagoya protocol on access to genetic resources and the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from their utilization to the convention on biological diversity of 12 october 2014;


### 1. violation of the obligation to take the necessary measures related to the use of biological resources in order to avoid or minimize adverse impacts on biological diversity , in line with article 10 (b) of the 1992 convention on biological diversity and [taking into account possible amendments following the post 2020 un convention on biological diversity] , including the obligations of the cartagena protocol on the development , handling , transport , use , transfer and release of living modified organisms and of the nagoya protocol on access to genetic resources and the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from their utilization to the convention on biological diversity of 12 october 2014; ### 1. violation of the obligation to comply with the measures adopted by the states parties related to the implementation of the provisions on the use of biological resources in order to avoid or minimize adverse impacts on biological diversity , in line with article 10 (b) of the 1992 convention on biological diversity and [taking into account possible amendments following the post 2020 un convention on biological diversity] , including the obligations of the cartagena protocol on the development , handling , transport , use , transfer and release of living modified organisms and of the nagoya protocol on access to genetic resources and the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from their utilization to the convention on biological diversity of 12 october 2014;


### (1) the union is founded on the respect for human dignity , freedom , democracy , equality , the rule of law and respect for human rights as enshrined in the eu charter of fundamental rights. those core values that have inspired the union’s own creation , as well as the universality and indivisibility of human rights , and respect for the principles of the united nations charter and international law , should guide the union’s action on the international scene. such action includes fostering the sustainable economic , social and environmental development of developing countries. ### (1) the union is founded on the respect for human dignity , freedom , democracy , equality , the rule of law and respect for human rights as enshrined in the eu charter of fundamental rights. those core values that have inspired the union’s own creation , as well as the universality and indivisibility of human rights , and respect for the principles of the united nations charter and international law , shall guide the union’s action on the international scene. such action includes , inter alia , fostering the sustainable economic , social and environmental development of developing countries.


### (1) the union is founded on the respect for human dignity , freedom , democracy , equality , the rule of law and respect for human rights as enshrined in the eu charter of fundamental rights. those core values that have inspired the union’s own creation , as well as the universality and indivisibility of human rights , and respect for the principles of the united nations charter and international law , should guide the union’s action on the international scene. such action includes fostering the sustainable economic , social and environmental development of developing countries. ### (1) the union is founded on the respect for human dignity , freedom , democracy , equality , the rule of law and respect for human rights as enshrined in the eu charter of fundamental rights and in article 2 of the treaty on european union. those core values that have inspired the union’s own creation , as well as the universality and indivisibility of human rights , and respect for the principles of the united nations charter and international law , should guide the union’s action on the international scene. such action includes fostering the sustainable economic , social and environmental development of developing countries.


### (1) the union is founded on the respect for human dignity , freedom , democracy , equality , the rule of law and respect for human rights as enshrined in the eu charter of fundamental rights. those core values that have inspired the union’s own creation , as well as the universality and indivisibility of human rights , and respect for the principles of the united nations charter and international law , should guide the union’s action on the international scene. such action includes fostering the sustainable economic , social and environmental development of developing countries. ### (1) the union is founded on the respect for human dignity , freedom , democracy , equality , the rule of law and respect for human rights as enshrined in the eu treaties and the eu charter of fundamental rights. those core values that have inspired the union’s own creation , as well as the universality and indivisibility of human rights , and respect for the principles of the united nations charter and international law , should guide the union’s action on the international scene. such action includes fostering the sustainable economic , social and environmental development of developing countries.


### (11) the action plan on a circular economy91 , the biodiversity strategy92 , the farm to fork strategy93 and the chemicals strategy94 and updating the 2020 new industrial strategy: building a stronger single market for europe’s recovery95 , industry 5.096 and the european pillar of social rights action plan97 and the 2021 trade policy review98 list an initiative on sustainable corporate governance among their elements. ### deleted


### (13) the european parliament , in its resolution of 10 march 2021 calls upon the commission to propose union rules for a comprehensive corporate due diligence obligation100. the council conclusions on human rights and decent work in global supply chains of 1 december 2020 called upon the commission to table a proposal for a union legal framework on sustainable corporate governance , including cross-sector corporate due diligence obligations along global supply chains101. the european parliament also calls for clarifying directors` duties in its own initiative report adopted on 2 december 2020 on sustainable corporate governance. in their joint declaration on eu legislative priorities for 2022102 , the european parliament , the council of the european union and the commission have committed , to deliver on an economy that works for people , and to improve the regulatory framework on sustainable corporate governance. ### (13) the european parliament , in its resolution of 10 march 2021 calls upon the commission to propose union rules for a comprehensive corporate due diligence obligation100. the council conclusions on human rights and decent work in global supply chains of 1 december 2020 called upon the commission to table a proposal including cross-sector corporate due diligence obligations along global supply chains101.


### (13) the european parliament , in its resolution of 10 march 2021 calls upon the commission to propose union rules for a comprehensive corporate due diligence obligation100 . the council conclusions on human rights and decent work in global supply chains of 1 december 2020 called upon the commission to table a proposal for a union legal framework on sustainable corporate governance , including cross-sector corporate due diligence obligations along global supply chains.101 the european parliament also calls for clarifying directors` duties in its own initiative report adopted on 2 december 2020 on sustainable corporate governance. in their joint declaration on eu legislative priorities for 2022102 , the european parliament , the council of the european union and the commission have committed , to deliver on an economy that works for people , and to improve the regulatory framework on sustainable corporate governance. ### (13) the european parliament , in its resolution of 10 march 2021 calls upon the commission to propose union rules for a comprehensive corporate due diligence obligation100 . the council conclusions on human rights and decent work in global supply chains of 1 december 2020 called upon the commission to table a proposal for a union legal framework on cross-sector corporate due diligence obligations along global supply chains.101


### (13) the european parliament , in its resolution of 10 march 2021 calls upon the commission to propose union rules for a comprehensive corporate due diligence obligation100. the council conclusions on human rights and decent work in global supply chains of 1 december 2020 called upon the commission to table a proposal for a union legal framework on sustainable corporate governance , including cross-sector corporate due diligence obligations along global supply chains.101 the european parliament also calls for clarifying directors` duties in its own initiative report adopted on 2 december 2020 on sustainable corporate governance. in their joint declaration on eu legislative priorities for 2022102 , the european parliament , the council of the european union and the commission have committed , to deliver on an economy that works for people , and to improve the regulatory framework on sustainable corporate governance. ### (13) the european parliament , in its resolution of 10 march 2021 calls upon the commission to propose union rules for a comprehensive corporate due diligence obligation100. the council conclusions on human rights and decent work in global supply chains of 1 december 2020 called upon the commission to table a proposal for a union legal framework on sustainable corporate governance , including cross-sector corporate due diligence obligations along global supply chains.101


### (26) companies have guidance at their disposal that illustrates how their activities may impact human rights and which corporate behaviour is prohibited in accordance with internationally recognised human rights. such guidance is included for instance in the united nations guiding principles reporting framework and the united nations guiding principles interpretative guide. using relevant international guidelines and standards as a reference , the commission should be able to issue additional guidance that will serve as a practical tool for companies. ### (26) (does not affect english version.)


### (26) companies have guidance at their disposal that illustrates how their activities may impact human rights and which corporate behaviour is prohibited in accordance with internationally recognised human rights. such guidance is included for instance in the united nations guiding principles reporting framework104 and the united nations guiding principles interpretative guide105 . using relevant international guidelines and standards as a reference , the commission should be able to issue additional guidance that will serve as a practical tool for companies. ### (26) companies should have guidance at their disposal that illustrates how their activities may impact human rights and which corporate behaviour is prohibited in accordance with internationally recognised human rights. such guidance is included for instance in the united nations guiding principles reporting framework104 and the united nations guiding principles interpretative guide105 and should be made easily accessible to companies. therefore , the commission should issue guidance that will serve as a practical tool for companies.


### (26) companies have guidance at their disposal that illustrates how their activities may impact human rights and which corporate behaviour is prohibited in accordance with internationally recognised human rights. such guidance is included for instance in the united nations guiding principles reporting framework104 and the united nations guiding principles interpretative guide105 . using relevant international guidelines and standards as a reference , the commission should be able to issue additional guidance that will serve as a practical tool for companies. ### (26) companies should have guidance at their disposal that illustrates how their activities may impact human rights and which corporate behaviour is prohibited in accordance with internationally recognised human rights. such guidance is included for instance in the united nations guiding principles reporting framework104 and the united nations guiding principles interpretative guide105 and should be made easily accessible to companies. using relevant international guidelines and standards as a reference , the commission should issue additional guidance that will serve as a practical tool for companies.


### (28) in order to ensure that due diligence forms part of companies’ corporate policies , and in line with the relevant international framework , companies should integrate due diligence into all their corporate policies and have in place a due diligence policy. the due diligence policy should contain a description of the company’s approach , including in the long term , to due diligence , a code of conduct describing the rules and principles to be followed by the company’s employees and subsidiaries; a description of the processes put in place to implement due diligence , including the measures taken to verify compliance with the code of conduct and to extend its application to established business relationships. the code of conduct should apply in all relevant corporate functions and operations , including procurement and purchasing decisions. companies should also update their due diligence policy annually. ### (28) in order to ensure that due diligence forms part of companies’ corporate policies , and in line with the relevant international framework , companies should integrate due diligence into their relevant corporate policies and have in place a risk-based due diligence policy. the due diligence policy should contain a description of the company’s approach , including in the long term , to due diligence , a code of conduct describing the rules and principles to be followed by the company’s employees and subsidiaries; a description of the processes put in place to implement due diligence , including the measures taken to verify compliance with the code of conduct and to extend its application to its direct business relationships outside the eu. the code of conduct should apply in all relevant corporate functions and operations , including procurement and purchasing decisions. companies should also update their due diligence policy when relevant , meaning after a significant change occurs , such as operating in or sourcing from a new country.


### (28) in order to ensure that due diligence forms part of companies’ corporate policies , and in line with the relevant international framework , companies should integrate due diligence into all their corporate policies and have in place a due diligence policy. the due diligence policy should contain a description of the company’s approach , including in the long term , to due diligence , a code of conduct describing the rules and principles to be followed by the company’s employees and subsidiaries; a description of the processes put in place to implement due diligence , including the measures taken to verify compliance with the code of conduct and to extend its application to established business relationships. the code of conduct should apply in all relevant corporate functions and operations , including procurement and purchasing decisions. companies should also update their due diligence policy annually. ### (28) in order to ensure that due diligence forms part of companies’ corporate policies , and in line with the relevant international framework , companies should integrate due diligence into all their corporate policies and have in place a due diligence policy. the due diligence policy should contain a description of the company’s approach , including in the long term , to due diligence , a code of conduct describing the rules and principles to be followed by the company’s employees and subsidiaries; a description of the processes put in place to implement due diligence , including the measures taken to verify compliance with the code of conduct and to extend its application to business relationships. the code of conduct should apply in all relevant corporate functions and operations , including procurement and purchasing decisions. companies should also update their due diligence policy annually.


### (28) in order to ensure that due diligence forms part of companies’ corporate policies , and in line with the relevant international framework , companies should integrate due diligence into all their corporate policies and have in place a due diligence policy. the due diligence policy should contain a description of the company’s approach , including in the long term , to due diligence , a code of conduct describing the rules and principles to be followed by the company’s employees and subsidiaries; a description of the processes put in place to implement due diligence , including the measures taken to verify compliance with the code of conduct and to extend its application to established business relationships. the code of conduct should apply in all relevant corporate functions and operations , including procurement and purchasing decisions. companies should also update their due diligence policy annually. ### (28) in order to ensure that due diligence forms part of companies’ corporate policies , and in line with the relevant international framework , companies should integrate due diligence into their corporate policies where necessary and have in place a risk-based due diligence policy. the risk-based due diligence policy should contain a description of the company’s approach , including in the long term , to due diligence , a code of conduct describing the rules and principles to be followed by the company’s employees and subsidiaries; a description of the processes put in place to implement due diligence , including the measures taken to verify compliance with the code of conduct. the code of conduct should apply in all relevant corporate functions and operations , including procurement and purchasing decisions. companies should regularly update and publish their due diligence policy , taking a risk-based approach in accordance with the oecd due diligence guidance for responsible business conduct , the oecd guidelines for multinational enterprises and the un guiding principles on business and human rights , but at least every five years.


### (33) under the due diligence obligations set out by this directive , if a company identifies potential adverse human rights or environmental impacts , it should take appropriate measures to prevent and adequately mitigate them. to provide companies with legal clarity and certainty , this directive should set out the actions companies should be expected to take for prevention and mitigation of potential adverse impacts where relevant depending on the circumstances. ### (33) under the due diligence obligations set out by this directive , if a company identifies potential adverse human rights or environmental impacts , it should take appropriate proportionate and commensurate measures within their means to prevent or adequately mitigate them. to provide companies with legal clarity and certainty , this directive should set out the actions companies can be reasonably expected to take for prevention and mitigation of potential adverse impacts where relevant depending on the circumstances and leverage. companies should be obliged to take measures within their means to prevent or mitigate the adverse impacts that they cause or to which they contribute. when companies are not causing nor contributing to the adverse impacts occurring in their supply chain (so called ‘being directly linked to’ the adverse impact) , they should use their influence to prevent or mitigate the adverse impact caused by their subsidiaries or business partners or to increase their influence to do so.


### (54) in order to ensure effective enforcement of national measures implementing this directive , member states should provide for dissuasive , proportionate and effective sanctions for infringements of those measures. in order for such sanction regime to be effective , administrative sanctions to be imposed by the national supervisory authorities should include pecuniary sanctions. where the legal system of a member state does not provide for administrative sanctions as foreseen in this directive , the rules on administrative sanctions should be applied in such a way that the sanction is initiated by the competent supervisory authority and imposed by the judicial authority. therefore , it is necessary that those member states ensure that the application of the rules and sanctions has an equivalent effect to the administrative sanctions imposed by the competent supervisory authorities. ### (54) in order to ensure effective enforcement of national measures implementing this directive , member states should provide for dissuasive , proportionate and effective administrative sanctions for infringements of those measures. in order for such sanction regime to be effective , administrative sanctions to be imposed by the national supervisory authorities should include pecuniary sanctions. where the legal system of a member state does not provide for administrative sanctions as foreseen in this directive , the rules on administrative sanctions should be applied in such a way that the sanction is initiated by the competent supervisory authority and imposed by the judicial authority. therefore , it is necessary that those member states ensure that the application of the rules and sanctions has an equivalent effect to the administrative sanctions imposed by the competent supervisory authorities.


### (54) in order to ensure effective enforcement of national measures implementing this directive , member states should provide for dissuasive , proportionate and effective sanctions for infringements of those measures. in order for such sanction regime to be effective , administrative sanctions to be imposed by the national supervisory authorities should include pecuniary sanctions. where the legal system of a member state does not provide for administrative sanctions as foreseen in this directive , the rules on administrative sanctions should be applied in such a way that the sanction is initiated by the competent supervisory authority and imposed by the judicial authority. therefore , it is necessary that those member states ensure that the application of the rules and sanctions has an equivalent effect to the administrative sanctions imposed by the competent supervisory authorities. ### (54) in order to ensure effective enforcement of national measures implementing this directive , member states should provide for dissuasive , proportionate and effective sanctions for infringements of those measures. member states should fully align and harmonize sanctions to allow for a level-playing field. where the legal system of a member state does not provide for administrative sanctions as foreseen in this directive , the rules on administrative sanctions should be applied in such a way that the sanction is initiated by the competent supervisory authority and imposed by the judicial authority. therefore , it is necessary that those member states ensure that the application of the rules and sanctions has an equivalent effect to the administrative sanctions imposed by the competent supervisory authorities.


### (60) as regards civil liability arising from adverse environmental impacts , persons who suffer damage can claim compensation under this directive even where they overlap with human rights claims. ### deleted


### 3. this directive shall be without prejudice to obligations in the areas of human rights , protection of the environment and climate change under other union legislative acts. if the provisions of this directive conflict with a provision of another union legislative act pursuing the same objectives and providing for more extensive or more specific obligations , the provisions of the other union legislative act shall prevail to the extent of the conflict and shall apply to those specific obligations. ### 3. this directive shall be without prejudice to obligations in the areas of human rights , and protection of the environment under other union legislative acts. if the provisions of this directive conflict with a provision of another union legislative act pursuing the same objectives and providing for more extensive or more specific obligations , the provisions of the other union legislative act shall prevail to the extent of the conflict and shall apply to those specific obligations.


### with whom the company has a commercial agreement or to whom the company provides financing , insurance or reinsurance , or ### with whom the company has a commercial agreement , and


### (ii) that performs business operations related to the products or services of the company for or on behalf of the company; ### deleted


### integrating due diligence into their policies in accordance with article 5; ### embed the company´s commitment to due diligence into policies and management systems in accordance with article 5;


### (55) in order to ensure consistent application and enforcement of national provisions adopted pursuant to this directive , national supervisory authorities should cooperate and coordinate their action. for that purpose a european network of supervisory authorities should be set up by the commission and the supervisory authorities should assist each other in performing their tasks and provide mutual assistance. ### (55) in order to ensure consistent application and enforcement of national provisions adopted pursuant to this directive , national supervisory authorities should actively cooperate and coordinate their action. for that purpose a european network of supervisory authorities should be set up by the commission and the supervisory authorities should assist each other in performing their tasks and provide mutual assistance.


### this directive lays down rules ### this regulation lays down rules


### 1. adopts its position at first reading hereinafter set out; ### 1. the european parliament calls on the european commission to conduct a new impact assessment , which should assess , for example , the coherence of this proposal with other reporting requirements and the direct and indirect consequences of such reporting and due diligence obligations for companies , in particular its impact on smes. the consultations in the european parliament should be postponed until the new impact assessment has been carried out. should the european commission not conduct such a new impact assessment , the european parliament rejects the commission proposal.


### (iv) [...] ### deleted


### 5. member states may designate the authorities for the supervision of regulated financial undertakings also as supervisory authorities for the purposes of this directive. ### deleted


### member states shall adopt and publish , by … [oj to insert: 2 years from the entry into force of this directive] at the latest , regulations and administrative provisions necessary to comply with this directive. they shall forthwith communicate to the commission the text of those provisions. ### member states shall adopt and publish , by … [oj to insert: 5 years from the entry into force of this directive] at the latest , regulations and administrative provisions necessary to comply with this directive. they shall forthwith communicate to the commission the text of those provisions.


### member states shall adopt and publish , by … [oj to insert: 2 years from the entry into force of this directive] at the latest , regulations and administrative provisions necessary to comply with this directive. they shall forthwith communicate to the commission the text of those provisions. ### member states shall adopt and publish , by … [oj to insert: 6 years from the entry into force of this directive] at the latest , regulations and administrative provisions necessary to comply with this directive. they shall forthwith communicate to the commission the text of those provisions.


### d. whereas fishing , including tuna fishing , is an important sector for the seychelles economy , being essential to the country’s economic development and its food security , and whereas healthy stocks are key to its long-term stability; ### d. whereas seychelles is an operational and logistical centre for tuna fishing activities in the indian ocean; whereas fishing , including tuna fishing , is an important sector for the seychelles economy , being essential to the country’s economic development and its food security , and whereas healthy stocks are key to its long-term stability; whereas it is important for the eu to maintain an instrument that allows for close sectoral cooperation with seychelles , which , owing to the extent of the fishing area under its jurisdiction , is a major player in ocean governance at sub-regional level; whereas forging a closer relationship with seychelles will also help build alliances in the framework of the iotc;


### h. whereas guyana needs to overcome challenges in order to improve the well-being of its citizens , such as fighting poverty , inequality and discrimination , particularly against lgbti people and indigenous peoples , as well as combating corruption and racial and ethnic polarisation and violence , which remain persistent concerns; ### deleted


### 1. welcomes the conclusion of negotiations on the vpa between the eu and guyana , which will ensure that only legally logged timber will be imported into the eu from guyana , promote sustainable forest management practices and sustainable trade in legally produced timber , and improve forest governance , law enforcement (including labour and occupational , health and safety obligations) , human rights , transparency , accountability and institutional resilience in guyana; ### 1. welcomes the conclusion of negotiations on the vpa between the eu and guyana; acknowledges that the vpa has a high significance for the country as well as potential for boosting eu-guyana trade relations and believes that the successful negotiations of this vpa demonstrate the importance of the union’s delegations to third countries; which will ensure that only legally logged timber will be imported into the eu from guyana , promote sustainable forest management practices and sustainable trade in legally produced timber , and improve forest governance , law enforcement (including labour and occupational , health and safety obligations) , human rights , transparency , accountability and institutional resilience in guyana;


### 1. expresses deep concern about the deliberate and systematic efforts of the hungarian government to undermine the founding values of the union enshrined in article 2 teu , in particular through the removal of the constitutional checks and balances , by the limitation of the independence of the judiciary , by intentional alterations of the national electoral system and by hampering freedom of expression; highlights that these trends have substantially worsened since the triggering of article 7(1) teu and have been severely amplified by the covid-19 crisis; ### 1. expresses deep concern about the deliberate and systematic efforts of the hungarian government to undermine the founding values of the union enshrined in article 2 teu , in particular through the removal of the constitutional checks and balances , by the limitation of the independence of the judiciary , by intentional alterations of the national electoral system and by hampering freedom of expression , education and academic freedom as well as university autonomy; highlights that these trends have substantially worsened since the triggering of article 7(1) teu and have been severely amplified by the covid-19 crisis;


### 1. underlines that economic development and multilateralism are important tools to improve people’s lives; points out that one of the objectives of the ipa is to strengthen the economic , trade and investment relationship between the eu and viet nam in accordance with the objective of sustainable development , and to promote trade and investment in a manner that is mindful of high levels of environmental and labour protection and relevant internationally recognised standards and agreements; ### 1. underlines that economic development and multilateralism are important tools to improve people’s lives; points out that one of the objectives of the ipa is to strengthen the economic , trade and investment relationship between the eu and viet nam in accordance with the objective of sustainable development , and to promote trade and investment in a manner that is consistent with the high levels of environmental , labour protection , and human rights standards upheld by the eu , and relevant internationally recognised standards and agreements;


### 1. welcomes the new direction taken in the sustainable fisheries partnership agreements (sfpas) and their implementing protocols , which duly reflect eu priorities and external policy lines; recalls the eu’s commitment to the principle of policy coherence for development and the need for the sfpas and their implementing protocols to be in line with the un’s 2030 agenda for sustainable development; ### 1. welcomes the new direction taken in the sustainable fisheries partnership agreements (sfpas) and their implementing protocols , which duly reflect eu priorities and external policy lines; recalls the eu’s commitment to the principle of policy coherence for development and the need for the sfpas and their implementing protocols to be in line with this principle and the un’s 2030 agenda for sustainable development;


### 2. welcomes the enhanced political dialogue between the eu and viet nam and the upgraded potential to address human rights concerns in the framework of the institutional mechanisms established under article 35 of the pca and article 13 of the fta; believes that those articles provide the necessary tools to address human rights concerns related to the ipa; ### 2. welcomes the enhanced political dialogue between the eu and viet nam and the upgraded potential to address human rights violations in the framework of the institutional mechanisms established under article 35 of the pca and article 13 of the fta; believes that those articles , in conjunction with a system of periodic evaluations , provide the necessary tools to address human rights concerns related to the ipa;


### 2. underlines the strategic importance of viet nam as a crucial partner of the eu in south east asia and among the asean countries , specifically but not exclusively in relation to climate change negotiations , good governance , sustainable development , economic and social progress and the fight against terrorism; ### 2. underlines the strategic importance of viet nam as a crucial partner of the eu in south east asia and among the asean countries , specifically but not exclusively in relation to climate change negotiations , good governance , sustainable development , security , economic and social progress and the fight against terrorism; notes that viet nam is the chair of asean in 2020;


### 3. stresses that the implementation stage requires consultations and multi-stakeholder involvement , including the participation of civil society and local and indigenous communities in decision-making; recalls the need to enhance transparency and ensure the effective public disclosure of information and the timely sharing of documents with local and indigenous peoples; ### 3. welcomes the high stakeholder participation throughout the negotiation process; stresses that the implementation stage requires consultations and multi-stakeholder involvement , including the participation of civil society , business representatives and local and indigenous communities in decision-making; recalls the need to enhance transparency and ensure the effective public disclosure of information and the timely sharing of documents with local and indigenous peoples;


### 3. stresses that under article 35 of the pca , the parties agree to cooperate in the promotion and protection of human rights , including with regard to the implementation of international human rights instruments to which they are parties; ### 3. stresses that under title vi of the pca , the parties agree to cooperate in the promotion and protection of human rights , and in the fields of gender equality , climate change , migration , health , education and training , socio-economic affairs , and a reform of public administration to ensure that the high standards and values promoted by the eu are exported abroad and reflected in upcoming reforms in viet nam , including with regard to the implementation of international human rights instruments to which they are parties;


### 3. acknowledges viet nam’s efforts to undertake an ambitious reform agenda , notably on the environmental and labour rights of the sustainable development chapter of the fta; welcomes the ratification of six out of eight core ilo conventions , namely no. 29 on forced labour , nos. 100 and 111 on non-discrimination , nos. 138 and 182 on child labour and most recently no. 98 on the right to organise and collective bargaining; calls on the vietnamese government to quickly ratify the outstanding conventions; ### 3. acknowledges viet nam’s efforts to undertake an ambitious reform agenda , notably on the environmental and labour rights of the sustainable development chapter of the fta; calls on the vietnamese government to take all appropriate legislative and non-legislative measures to ensure the highest attainable human rights standards- including but not limited to - environmental and labour standards , and guarantee that these are effectively upheld and implemented; welcomes the ratification of six out of eight core ilo conventions , namely no. 29 on forced labour , nos. 100 and 111 on non-discrimination , nos. 138 and 182 on child labour and most recently no. 98 on the right to organise and collective bargaining; urges the vietnamese government to quickly ratify the outstanding conventions;


### 3. acknowledges viet nam’s efforts to undertake an ambitious reform agenda , notably on the environmental and labour rights of the sustainable development chapter of the fta; welcomes the ratification of six out of eight core ilo conventions , namely no. 29 on forced labour , nos. 100 and 111 on non-discrimination , nos. 138 and 182 on child labour and most recently no. 98 on the right to organise and collective bargaining; calls on the vietnamese government to quickly ratify the outstanding conventions; ### 3. acknowledges viet nam’s efforts to undertake an ambitious reform agenda , notably on the environmental and labour rights of the sustainable development chapter of the fta; welcomes the ratification of six out of eight core ilo conventions , namely no. 29 on forced labour , nos. 100 and 111 on non-discrimination , nos. 138 and 182 on child labour and most recently no. 98 on the right to organise and collective bargaining; urges the vietnamese government to quickly ratify the outstanding conventions;


### 3. stresses that fishing is an important sector for mauritania’s economy and is essential to the country’s economic development , employment opportunities and food security; ### 3. stresses that fishing is an important sector for mauritania’s economy and is essential to the country’s economic development , employment opportunities , in particular for women and youth , food security and nutrition;


### 5. welcomes the recent adoption of the joint implementation framework and calls on the government of guyana to follow a concrete , time-bound and measurable approach; ### 5. welcomes the recent adoption of the joint implementation framework and calls on the government of guyana to follow a concrete , time-bound and measurable approach; calls on the commission to report to parliament regularly on the implementation of the agreement , including on the work of the joint implementation committee;


### 5. underlines that article 13 of the fta embodies a cooperative approach based on common values and interests , taking into account the differences in the parties’ respective levels of development; welcomes the possibility of first resolving matters that fall under article 13 on trade and sustainable development through exchange in the committee on trade and sustainable development; recalls that a party may request that a panel of experts be convened to examine such matters in the event that the committee is unable to resolve them satisfactorily; ### 5. underlines that article 13 of the fta embodies a cooperative approach based on common values and interests , taking into account the differences in the parties’ respective levels of development; stresses the importance of implementing all the principles enriched in article 13 of the fta , such as freedom of association , the elimination of all forms of forced or compulsory labour , the effective abolition of child labour; and the elimination of discrimination in respect of employment and occupation; welcomes the possibility of first resolving matters that fall under article 13 on trade and sustainable development through exchange in the committee on trade and sustainable development; recalls that a party may request that a panel of experts be convened to examine such matters in the event that the committee is unable to resolve them satisfactorily;


### 5. recommends that this agreement be brought into line with other programmes , financed by other donors such as the world bank. ### 5. recommends that this agreement be brought into line with other programmes , financed by other international partners such as the fao , the world bank or the african development bank.


### 5. welcomes the amount allocated to the sectoral support component and encourages this allocation to be used to improve research , surveillance and control of fishing activity and the sustainable development of mauritania’s fisheries sector; ### 5. welcomes the amount allocated to the sectoral support component and encourages this allocation to be used to improve the research and analysis , as well as surveillance and control of fishing activity and the sustainable development of mauritania’s fisheries sector;


### 6. stresses that the success of the flegt vpa also depends on tackling fraud and corruption throughout the timber supply chain; urges the government of guyana to continue to work to stop widespread corruption and address other factors fuelling illegal logging and forest degradation , with particular regard to customs and other authorities that will play a pivotal role in the implementation and enforcement of the vpa; stresses the need to end impunity in the forest sector; ### 6. welcomes guyana’s efforts so far in making advances towards greater transparency and look forward to further positive cooperation in the fight against illegal logging; stresses that the success of the flegt vpa also depends on tackling fraud and corruption throughout the timber supply chain; urges the government of guyana to continue to work to stop widespread corruption and address other factors fuelling illegal logging and forest degradation , with particular regard to customs and other authorities that will play a pivotal role in the implementation and enforcement of the vpa; stresses the need to end impunity in the forest sector;


### 6. stresses that the success of the flegt also depends on tackling fraud and corruption throughout the timber supply chain; urges the government of honduras to work to stop widespread corruption and address other factors fuelling illegal logging and forest degradation , with particular regard to customs and other authorities that will play a pivotal role in the implementation and enforcement of the vpa; stresses the need to end impunity in the forest sector by ensuring that infractions are prosecuted; ### 6. stresses that the success of the flegt also depends on tackling fraud and corruption throughout the timber supply chain; urges the government of honduras to provide incentives in the various stages of the forest value chain so as to increase transparency and reduce the exclusion of the most vulnerable operators (young people and women from indigenous communities , people of african descent and small farmers); also urges the government of honduras to work to stop widespread corruption , by implementing more effective transparency and accountability policies , and address other factors fuelling illegal logging and forest degradation , with particular regard to customs and other authorities that will play a pivotal role in the implementation and enforcement of the vpa; stresses the need to end impunity in the forest sector by ensuring that infractions are prosecuted;


### 6. stresses that the success of the flegt also depends on tackling fraud and corruption throughout the timber supply chain; urges the government of honduras to work to stop widespread corruption and address other factors fuelling illegal logging and forest degradation , with particular regard to customs and other authorities that will play a pivotal role in the implementation and enforcement of the vpa; stresses the need to end impunity in the forest sector by ensuring that infractions are prosecuted; ### 6. welcomes honduras' efforts so far in making advances towards greater transparency and look forward to further positive cooperation in the fight against illegal logging and forest degradation; stresses that the success of the flegt also depends on tackling fraud and corruption throughout the timber supply chain; urges the government of honduras to work to stop widespread corruption and address other factors fuelling illegal logging and forest degradation , with particular regard to customs and other authorities that will play a pivotal role in the implementation and enforcement of the vpa; stresses the need to end impunity in the forest sector by ensuring that infractions are prosecuted;


### 6. highlights that the fta creates an institutional and legally binding link to the pca; points out that article 1 of the pca contains a standard human rights clause which can trigger appropriate measures , including , as a last resort , the suspension of the pca , or parts thereof , without delay; ### 6. highlights that the fta creates an institutional and legally binding link to the pca; points out that article 1 of the pca contains a standard human rights clause which can trigger appropriate measures , including , as a last resort , the suspension of the pca , or parts thereof , without delay; calls for the establishment of a mechanism to monitor the implementation of the human rights clause;


### 6. highlights that the fta creates an institutional and legally binding link to the pca; points out that article 1 of the pca contains a standard human rights clause which can trigger appropriate measures , including , as a last resort , the suspension of the pca , or parts thereof , without delay; ### 6. highlights that the fta creates an institutional and legally binding link to the pca; points out that article 1 of the pca contains a standard human rights clause which can trigger appropriate measures , including , as a last resort , the suspension of the pca , or parts thereof , without delay , should no efforts or visible progress be evident during periodic evaluations;


### 6. calls for the fostering of local economic development and the strengthening of coastal communities that are dependent on marine resources; ### 6. calls for the fostering of local and regional economic development and the strengthening of coastal communities that are dependent on marine resources;


### 7. recognises that the process of negotiating the vpa has allowed sectors to identify shared goals and priorities to work towards sustainable forest management , as well as offer an important opportunity for societies to allow for participative management of their forests at local , community and regional levels and even up to national or federal level; ### 7. welcomes that the process of negotiating the vpa has allowed sectors to identify shared goals and priorities to work towards sustainable forest management and trade cooperation , as well as offer an important opportunity for societies to allow for participative management of their forests at local , community and regional levels and even up to national or federal level;


### 7. encourages the commission to step up technical assistance and available funding to viet nam and its independent civil society in order to support viet nam’s compliance with its international human rights obligations and the monitoring of the proper implementation of article 13 of the fta. ### 7. encourages the commission to step up technical assistance to viet nam and available funding for the sound development of its independent civil society in order to support viet nam’s compliance with its international human rights obligations and the monitoring of the proper implementation of article 13 of the fta.


### 7. recommends measures to ensure that sectoral support complements and conforms to other programmes financed by different donors in guinea-bissau in order to avoid duplication of funding. ### 7. recommends measures to ensure that sectoral support complements and conforms to other programmes financed by other international partners in guinea-bissau in order to avoid duplication of funding.


### 9. believes that the eu plays an important role in improving both the supply and the demand side of timber in order to reject illegally produced timber and assist exporting countries in their efforts to combat illegal logging and corruption , which results in the destruction of their forests , climate change and human rights violations; recognises that vpas will continue to be an important legal framework for both the eu and its partner countries under the new proposal for a deforestation regulation; underlines that this has been made possible by the good cooperation and engagement of the partner countries concerned; supports the commission in finding additional potential partners for future flegt vpas; ### 9. believes that the eu plays an important role in improving both the supply and the demand side of timber in order to reject illegally produced timber and assist exporting countries in their efforts to combat illegal logging and corruption , which results in the destruction of their forests , climate change and human rights violations; recognises that vpas will continue to be an important legal framework for both the eu and its partner countries under the new proposal for a deforestation regulation; underlines that vpas provide an important legal framework for both the eu and its partner countries , made possible with the good cooperation and engagement by the countries concerned; stresses therefore that new vpas with additional partners shall be promoted; recognises that the vpa with guyana as well as those with other countries prove that trade agreements can work without threatening the imposition of sanctions , by including different means of control and cooperation; the commission and the authorities of guyana should conduct an exhaustive assessment on the impact of the vpa and the proposal of the deforestation regulation on the workers and small producers of the forest sector and other related sectors , which will be affected by the increased logging controls and checks.


### a. whereas the commission and the government of seychelles have negotiated a new sustainable fisheries partnership agreement (eu-seychelles sfpa) , together with an implementing protocol , for a six-year period; ### a. whereas the commission and the government of seychelles have negotiated a new sustainable fisheries partnership agreement (eu-seychelles sfpa) , together with an implementing protocol , for a six-year period; whereas the eu-seychelles sfpa is the eu’s most important tuna agreement in terms of catch volume;


### b. whereas the overall aim of the eu-seychelles sfpa is to promote sustainable fishing and to define the rules that govern access for union fishing vessels to the fishing zone of seychelles; ### b. whereas the overall aim of the eu-seychelles sfpa is to promote sustainable fishing and to define the rules that govern access for union fishing vessels to the fishing zone of seychelles , in the interests of both parties; whereas the new protocol grants fishing opportunities to eu vessels on the basis of the best scientific knowledge and advice and the resolutions and recommendations of the iotc , within the limits of the surplus available;


### c. whereas the eu’s commitments under international agreements , notably the un sustainable development goals (sdgs) should also be supported under the sfpa , in particular sdgs 14 and 10; whereas all eu actions , including the conclusion of the sfpa , must contribute to those objectives; ### c. whereas sfpas are the most transparent fisheries agreements in the world and they lay down a sophisticated and robust legal framework within which the eu fleet operates; whereas the eu fleet has high social , environmental and regulatory standards; whereas the eu’s commitments under international agreements , notably the un sustainable development goals (sdgs) are supported under the eu-seychelles sfpa , in particular sdgs 14 and 10; whereas all eu actions , including the conclusion of the sfpa , must contribute to those objectives;


### c. whereas the eu’s commitments under international agreements , notably the un sustainable development goals (sdgs) should also be supported under the sfpa , in particular sdgs 14 and 10; whereas all eu actions , including the conclusion of the sfpa , must contribute to those objectives; ### c. whereas the eu’s commitments under international agreements , notably the un sustainable development goals (sdgs) are supported under the sfpa , in particular sdgs 14 and 10; whereas all eu actions , including the conclusion of the sfpa , must contribute to those objectives;


### e. whereas honduras is a lower middle-income country where poverty , inequality , corruption , violence and impunity remain persistent concerns; ### e. whereas honduras is a lower middle-income country that needs to overcome many challenges in order to fight inequality , poverty , corruption and impunity and improve the well-being of its citizens;


### e. whereas honduras is a lower middle-income country where poverty , inequality , corruption , violence and impunity remain persistent concerns; ### e. whereas honduras is a lower middle-income country where poverty , inequality , corruption , violence , in particular against human rights and environmental defenders , and impunity remain persistent concerns;


### 4. remains concerned about human rights violations , including the application of the death penalty in viet nam; calls on viet nam to introduce a moratorium and move towards abolition; highlights that human rights constitute a cornerstone of the trade and sustainable development chapter of the fta; calls for periodic evaluation of the impact of the agreement; ### 4. remains concerned about human rights violations , including the application of the death penalty in viet nam; urges viet nam to introduce a moratorium and take immediate steps towards abolition; notes with concern the continued restriction of freedom of expression , association , and peaceful assembly in viet nam , as it has been repeatedly stressed – in the 14 december 2017 and 9 june 2016 urgency european parliament’s resolutions – , viet nam’s human rights record raises grave concerns , and casts serious doubts about the country’s stated commitment to respect human rights: highlights that human rights constitute a cornerstone of the trade and sustainable development chapter of the fta;


### 4. remains concerned about human rights violations , including the application of the death penalty in viet nam; calls on viet nam to introduce a moratorium and move towards abolition; highlights that human rights constitute a cornerstone of the trade and sustainable development chapter of the fta; calls for periodic evaluation of the impact of the agreement; ### 4. remains concerned about human rights violations , including the application of the death penalty in viet nam; calls on viet nam to introduce a moratorium and move towards abolition; highlights that human rights constitute a cornerstone of the trade and sustainable development chapter of the fta; calls for a yearly evaluation of the impact of the agreement;


### 4. stresses that access for all vessels operating in mauritania’s waters should be limited to the level of surplus fish stocks and encourages every effort to collect reliable scientific data to accurately determine fish stocks; highlights the need for increased transparency and better data collection in this regard; ### 4. stresses that access for all vessels operating in mauritania’s waters should be limited to the level of surplus fish stocks and encourages every effort to collect reliable scientific data to accurately determine fish stocks; highlights the need for increased transparency and better data collection in this regard; encourages mauritania to strengthen the imrop [i]research institute so that it can play an active role in the monitoring of landings to ensure that the reference quotas are not exceeded;


### 10. is aware of the fact that the crucial land tenure rights in honduras need future clarification and that concrete safeguards for local and indigenous communities on land tenure are needed; ### 10. is aware of the fact that the crucial land tenure rights in honduras need future clarification and that concrete safeguards for local and indigenous communities on land tenure are needed; calls on the government of honduras to allocate more resources and to strengthen the coordination of the public institutions involved in order to make more significant progress in the forest land regularisation process;


### – fostering local economic development and strengthening coastal communities dependent on marine resources; ### – fostering local economic development and strengthening coastal communities dependent on marine resources and extremely affected by climate change;


### - stepping up monitoring , control and surveillance of fisheries , thus preventing illegal , unreported and unregulated fishing; ### - stepping up monitoring , control and surveillance of fisheries , thus preventing illegal , unreported and unregulated fishing , notably by improving governance , capacity building and training on this matter;


### - promoting a sustainable blue economy by supporting small-scale local fisheries , the modernisation of port infrastructure and the position of women , who play an important part in marketing and processing; ### - promoting the transition to a sustainable blue economy in line with sdg 14 , by supporting small-scale local fisheries , the modernisation of port infrastructure and the position of women , who play an important part in marketing and processing;


### 1. recalls the statement of the un economic commission for africa indicating that it believes the economic partnership agreements between eu and african countries could have negative consequences for intra-african trade; is concerned about the negative effects that the new partnership agreement between the eu and the members of the organisation of african , caribbean and pacific states (oacps – post-cotonou agreement) might have on intra-african trade; ### 1. stresses the key role of economic partnership agreements in promoting long-term , sustainable development , reducing poverty and boosting regional integration; regrets , therefore , the recent lack of progress in their finalisation; acknowledges the diverging views on epas and calls on the commission to address them by building trust and mutual understanding on the development benefits of epas; insists on the need to accompany any trade arrangements with oacps countries with capacity-building and technical assistance to effectively support their implementation;


### 2. insists that the agreement’s trade and investment provisions must be tailored to benefit all parties; is concerned about a misbalance benefiting the eu over the oacps countries; calls on the commission to guarantee that the oacps countries benefit from trade relations; calls on the commission to improve eu market access for oacps producers; calls on the commission to promote sustainable investment opportunities to advance digital and green infrastructure in the oacps countries; ### 2. insists that the agreement’s trade and investment provisions must be tailored to benefit all parties; believes that the renewed partnership is a unique opportunity to revive trade relations between the eu and each oacps region based on mutual advantages; regrets that while the cotonou agreement considerably improved access to eu markets for oacps countries , it did not prove effective in increasing market shares for european businesses in oacps countries; calls therefore on the commission to promote sustainable investment opportunities notably in digital and green infrastructure; to this end , stresses the need for a strong involvement of the european and oacps countries' private sector in the implementation of partnerships;


### 3. recognises that the western interpretation of sustainability has been applied in the post-cotonou agreement; is concerned that the terminology of the agreement focuses on the goals and perspectives of the eu; calls for an investigation into the differences in interpretation and application of sustainability criteria and the application of these criteria in the post-cotonou agreement; ### deleted


### 4. is concerned that the suspension clauses may not be legally valid; calls on the commission to guarantee that the suspension clauses will be correctly applied in the event of violations of essential elements; emphasises that suspension of clauses should not harm the population , but should target those responsible for violations; ### 4. recognizes the strong human rights component in the epas and for this reason welcomes the inclusion of suspension clauses in case of violations of human rights clauses; stresses the importance of political dialogue and consultation procedures to ensure effectiveness of these clauses and calls on the commission to guarantee that the suspension clauses will be correctly applied in the event of violations of essential elements; emphasises that suspension of clauses should not harm the population , but should target those responsible for violations;


### 5. strongly stresses the important link between trade , the eradication of poverty and support for sustainable development; underlines the role of women in the economies and societies of the oacps countries; calls on the commission to increase the participation of women in eu-oacps trade and investment relations. ### 5. strongly stresses the important link between trade , the eradication of poverty and support for sustainable development; recognizes how the agreement’s trade and investment provisions take appropriate steps to provide decent jobs for all and to socioeconomically empower marginalized groups , women and youth; calls on the commission to increase and to guarantee the participation of these categories in eu-oacps trade and investment relations.


### (4) the quality and diversity of the union’s wine , spirit drinks and agricultural production is one of its important strengths , giving a competitive advantage to the union’s producers and making a major contribution to its living cultural and gastronomic heritage. this is due to the skills and determination of union producers who have kept traditions alive while taking into account the developments of new production methods and material. ### (4) the quality , accessibility and diversity of the union’s wine , spirit drinks and agricultural production is one of its important strengths , giving a competitive advantage to the union’s producers and making a major contribution to its living cultural and gastronomic heritage. this is due to the skills and determination of union producers who have kept traditions and cultural identities alive while taking into account the developments of new production methods and material which have made traditional eu products a symbol of quality.


### (5) citizens and consumers in the union increasingly demand quality as well as traditional products. they are also concerned to maintain the diversity of agricultural production in the union. this generates a demand for wine , spirit drinks and agricultural products with identifiable specific characteristics , in particular those linked to their geographical origin. ### (5) citizens and consumers in the union increasingly demand quality as well as traditional and accessible products. they are also concerned to maintain the diversity and security of agricultural production in the union. this generates a demand for wine , spirit drinks and agricultural products with identifiable specific characteristics , in particular those linked to their geographical origin.


### (11) the union has for some time been aiming at simplifying the regulatory framework of the common agricultural policy. this approach should also apply to regulations in the field of geographical indications , without calling into question the specific characteristics of each sector. in order to simplify the lengthy registration and amendment procedures , harmonised procedural rules for geographical indications for wine , spirit drinks and agricultural products should be laid down in a single legal instrument , while maintaining product specific provisions for wine in regulation (eu) no 1308/2013 , for spirit drinks in regulation (eu) 2019/787 and for agricultural products in this regulation. the procedures for the registration , amendments to the product specification and cancellation of the registration in respect of geographical indications originating in the union , including opposition procedures , should be carried out by the member states and the commission. the member states and the commission should be responsible for distinct stages of each procedure. member states should be responsible for the first stage of the procedure , which consists of receiving the application from the producer group , assessing it , including running a national opposition procedure , and , following the results of the assessment , submitting the application to the commission. the commission should be responsible for scrutinising the application in the second stage of the procedure , including running a worldwide opposition procedure , and taking a decision on granting the protection to the geographical indication or not. geographical indications should be registered only at union level. however , with effect from the date of application with the commission for registration at union level , member states should be able to grant transitional protection at national level without affecting the internal market or international trade. the protection afforded by this regulation upon registration should be equally available to geographical indications of third countries that meet the corresponding criteria and that are protected in their country of origin. the commission should carry out the corresponding procedures for geographical indications originating in third countries. ### (11) the union has for some time been aiming at simplifying the regulatory framework of the common agricultural policy. this approach should also apply to regulations in the field of geographical indications , without calling into question the specific characteristics of each sector. in order to simplify the lengthy registration and amendment procedures , harmonised procedural rules for geographical indications for wine , spirit drinks and agricultural products should be laid down in a single legal instrument , while maintaining product specific provisions for wine in regulation (eu) no 1308/2013 , for spirit drinks in regulation (eu) 2019/787 and for agricultural products in this regulation. the procedures for the registration , amendments to the product specification and cancellation of the registration in respect of geographical indications originating in the union , including opposition procedures , should be carried out by the member states and the euipo. the member states and the euipo should be responsible for distinct stages of each procedure. member states should be responsible for the first stage of the procedure , which consists of receiving the application from the producer group , assessing it , including running a national opposition procedure , and , following the results of the assessment , submitting the application to the euipo. the euipo should be responsible for examining the application in the second stage of the procedure , including running a worldwide opposition procedure , and taking a decision on granting the protection to the geographical indication or not. geographical indications should be registered only at union level. however , with effect from the date of application with the euipo for registration at union level , member states should be able to grant transitional protection at national level without affecting the internal market or international trade. the protection afforded by this regulation upon registration should be equally available to geographical indications of third countries that meet the corresponding criteria and that are protected in their country of origin. the euipo should carry out the corresponding procedures for geographical indications originating in third countries.


### (15) to ensure transparency and uniformity across member states , it is necessary to establish and maintain an electronic union register of geographical indications , registered as protected designations of origin or protected geographical indications. the register should provide information to consumers and to those involved in trade. the register should be an electronic database stored within an information system , and should be accessible to the public. ### (15) to ensure transparency and uniformity across member states , it is necessary to establish and maintain a single electronic union register of geographical indications , registered as protected designations of origin or protected geographical indications. the register should provide information to consumers and to those involved in trade , in compliance with the eu rules in force on the protection of know-how and trade secrets. the register should be an electronic database stored within a secure information system , and should be accessible to the public.


### (15) to ensure transparency and uniformity across member states , it is necessary to establish and maintain an electronic union register of geographical indications , registered as protected designations of origin or protected geographical indications. the register should provide information to consumers and to those involved in trade. the register should be an electronic database stored within an information system , and should be accessible to the public. ### (15) to ensure transparency and uniformity across member states , euipo is necessary to establish and maintain an electronic union register of geographical indications , registered as protected designations of origin or protected geographical indications. the register should provide information to consumers and to those involved in trade. the register should be an electronic database stored within an information system , and should be accessible to the public.


### (23) producer groups play an essential role in the application process for the registration of geographical indications , as well as in the amendment of specifications and cancellation requests. they should be equipped with the means to better identify and market the specific characteristics of their products. the role of the producer group should hence be clarified. ### (23) producer groups , as defined in member states' national legislation , play an essential role in the application process for the registration of geographical indications , as well as in the amendment of specifications and cancellation requests. they should be equipped with the means to better identify and market the specific characteristics of their products. the role of the producer group should hence be clarified.


### (39) the procedures for registration , amendment and cancellation of geographical indications , including the scrutiny and the opposition procedure , should be carried out in the most efficient way. this can be achieved by using the assistance for the scrutiny of the applications provided by the european union intellectual property office (euipo). while a partial outsourcing to euipo has been considered , the commission would remain responsible for registration , amendment and cancellation , due to a strong relation with the common agricultural policy and to the expertise needed to ensure that specificities of wine , spirit drinks and agricultural products are adequately assessed. ### (39) the procedures for registration , amendment and cancellation of geographical indications , including the scrutiny and the opposition procedure , should be carried out in the most efficient way. the commission should remain responsible for registration , amendment and cancellation , due to a strong relation with the common agricultural policy and to the expertise needed to ensure that specificities of wine , spirit drinks and agricultural products are adequately assessed


### (39) the procedures for registration , amendment and cancellation of geographical indications , including the scrutiny and the opposition procedure , should be carried out in the most efficient way. this can be achieved by using the assistance for the scrutiny of the applications provided by the european union intellectual property office (euipo). while a partial outsourcing to euipo has been considered , the commission would remain responsible for registration , amendment and cancellation , due to a strong relation with the common agricultural policy and to the expertise needed to ensure that specificities of wine , spirit drinks and agricultural products are adequately assessed. ### (39) the procedures for registration , amendment and cancellation of geographical indications , including the examination and the opposition procedure , should be carried out in the most efficient way. this can be achieved by entrusting those tasks to the european union intellectual property office (euipo). the euipo has already proved to have necessary expertise and capability to carry out those taks in an efficient way which does not neglect the fact that geographical indications are also rural and agricultural development tools .


### (48) in order to avoid creating unfair conditions of competition , any producer , including a producer from a third country , should be able to use a registered name of a traditional speciality guaranteed , provided that the product concerned complies with the requirements of the relevant specification and the producer is covered by a system of controls. for traditional specialities guaranteed produced within the union , the union symbol should be indicated on the labelling and it should be possible to associate it with the indication ‘traditional speciality guaranteed’. the use of the names , the union symbol and the indication should be regulated to ensure a uniform approach across the internal market. ### (48) in order to avoid creating imbalances on the internal market or unfair conditions of competition , any producer , including a producer from a third country , should be able to use a registered name of a traditional speciality guaranteed , provided that the product concerned complies with the requirements of the relevant specification and the producer is covered by the system of controls. for traditional specialities guaranteed produced within the union , the union symbol should be indicated on the labelling and it should be possible to associate it with the indication ‘traditional speciality guaranteed’. the use of the names , the union symbol and the indication should be regulated correspondingly to ensure a uniform approach across the internal market.


### (52) the procedures for the registration , amendments to the product specification and the cancellation of the registration in respect of traditional specialities guaranteed originating in the union , including opposition procedures , should be carried out by the member states and the commission. the member states and the commission should be responsible for distinct stages of each procedure. member states should be responsible for the first stage of the procedure , which consists of receiving the application from the producer group , assessing it , including running a national opposition procedure , and , following the results of the assessment , submitting the union application to the commission. the commission should be responsible for scrutinising the application , including running a worldwide opposition procedure , and taking a decision on granting the traditional specialities guaranteed protection or not. the protection afforded by this regulation upon registration should be equally available to traditional specialities guaranteed of third countries that meet the corresponding criteria and that are protected in their country of origin. the commission should also carry out the corresponding procedures for traditional specialities guaranteed originating in third countries. ### (52) the procedures for the registration , amendments to the product specification and the cancellation of the registration in respect of traditional specialities guaranteed originating in the union , including opposition procedures , should be carried out by the member states and the euipo. the member states and the euipo should be responsible for distinct stages of each procedure. member states should be responsible for the first stage of the procedure , which consists of receiving the application from the producer group , assessing it , including running a national opposition procedure , and , following the results of the assessment , submitting the union application to the euipo. the euipo should be responsible for examining the application , including running a worldwide opposition procedure , and taking a decision on granting the traditional specialities guaranteed protection or not. the protection afforded by this regulation upon registration should be equally available to traditional specialities guaranteed of third countries that meet the corresponding criteria and that are protected in their country of origin. the euipo should also carry out the corresponding procedures for traditional specialities guaranteed originating in third countries.


### (56) in order to supplement or amend certain non-essential elements of this regulation , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union should be delegated to the commission in respect of defining sustainability standards and laying down criteria for the recognition of existing sustainability standards; clarifying or adding items to be supplied as part of accompanying information; entrusting the euipo with the tasks related to scrutiny for opposition and the opposition procedure , operation of the register , publication of standard amendments to a product specification , consultation in the context of cancellation procedure , establishment and management of an alert system informing applicants about the availability of their geographical indication as a domain name , scrutiny of third country geographical indications other than geographical indications under the geneva act of the lisbon agreement on appellations of origin and geographical indications34 , proposed for protection pursuant to international negotiations or international agreements; establishing appropriate criteria for monitoring performance of the euipo in the execution of the tasks entrusted to it; laying down additional rules on the use of geographical indications to identify ingredients in processed products; laying down additional rules for determining the generic status of terms; establishing the restrictions and derogations with regard to the sourcing of feed in the case of a designation of origin; establishing restrictions and derogations with regard to the slaughtering of live animals or with regard to the sourcing of raw materials; laying down rules for determining the use of the denomination of a plant variety or of an animal breed; laying down rules which limit the information contained in the product specification for geographical indications and traditional specialities guaranteed; laying down further details of the eligibility criteria for traditional specialities guaranteed; laying down additional rules to provide for appropriate certification and accreditation procedures to apply in respect of product certification bodies; laying down additional rules to further detail protection of traditional specialities guaranteed; laying down for traditional specialities guaranteed additional rules for determining the generic status of terms , conditions for use of plant variety and animal breed denominations , and relation to intellectual property rights; defining additional rules for joint applications concerning more than one national territory and complementing the rules of the application process for traditional specialities guaranteed guaranteed; complementing the rules for the opposition procedure for traditional specialities guaranteed to establish detailed procedures and deadlines; supplementing the rules regarding the amendment application process for traditional specialities guaranteed; supplementing the rules regarding the cancellation process for traditional specialities guaranteed; laying down detailed rules relating to the criteria for optional quality terms; reserving an additional optional quality term , laying down its conditions of use; laying down derogations to the use of the term ‘mountain product’ and establishing the methods of production , and other criteria relevant for the application of that optional quality term , in particular , laying down the conditions under which raw materials or feedstuffs are permitted to come from outside the mountain areas. it is of particular importance that the commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level , and that those consultations be conducted in accordance with the principles laid down in the interinstitutional agreement of 13 april 2016 on better law-making35. in particular , to ensure equal participation in the preparation of delegated acts , the european parliament and the council receive all documents at the same time as member states’ experts , and their experts systematically have access to meetings of commission expert groups dealing with the preparation of delegated acts. ### (56) in order to supplement or amend certain non-essential elements of this regulation , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union should be delegated to the commission in respect of: defining sustainability standards and laying down criteria for the recognition of existing sustainability standards; clarifying or adding items to be supplied as part of accompanying information; the tasks related to scrutiny for opposition and the opposition procedure , operation of the register , publication of standard amendments to a product specification , consultation in the context of cancellation procedure , establishment and management of an alert system informing applicants about the availability of their geographical indication as a domain name , scrutiny of third country geographical indications other than geographical indications under the geneva act of the lisbon agreement on appellations of origin and geographical indications34 , proposed for protection pursuant to international negotiations or international agreements; laying down additional rules on the use of geographical indications to identify ingredients in processed products; laying down additional rules for determining the generic status of terms; establishing the restrictions and derogations with regard to the sourcing of feed in the case of a designation of origin; establishing restrictions and derogations with regard to the slaughtering of live animals or with regard to the sourcing of raw materials; laying down rules for determining the use of the denomination of a plant variety or of an animal breed; laying down rules which limit the information contained in the product specification for geographical indications and traditional specialities guaranteed; laying down further details of the eligibility criteria for traditional specialities guaranteed; laying down additional rules to provide for appropriate certification and accreditation procedures to apply in respect of product certification bodies; laying down additional rules to further detail protection of traditional specialities guaranteed; laying down for traditional specialities guaranteed additional rules for determining the generic status of terms , conditions for use of plant variety and animal breed denominations , and relation to intellectual property rights; defining additional rules for joint applications concerning more than one national territory and complementing the rules of the application process for traditional specialities guaranteed guaranteed; complementing the rules for the opposition procedure for traditional specialities guaranteed to establish detailed procedures and deadlines; supplementing the rules regarding the amendment application process for traditional specialities guaranteed; supplementing the rules regarding the cancellation process for traditional specialities guaranteed; laying down detailed rules relating to the criteria for optional quality terms; reserving an additional optional quality term , laying down its conditions of use; laying down derogations to the use of the term ‘mountain product’ and establishing the methods of production , and other criteria relevant for the application of that optional quality term , in particular , laying down the conditions under which raw materials or feedstuffs are permitted to come from outside the mountain areas. it is of particular importance that the commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level , and that those consultations be conducted in accordance with the principles laid down in the interinstitutional agreement of 13 april 2016 on better law-making35. in particular , to ensure equal participation in the preparation of delegated acts , the european parliament and the council receive all documents at the same time as member states’ experts , and their experts systematically have access to meetings of commission expert groups dealing with the preparation of delegated acts.


### producers acting collectively have the necessary powers and responsibilities to manage their geographical indication , including to respond to societal demands for products resulting from sustainable production in its three dimensions of economic , environmental and social value , and to operate in the market; ### that producers acting collectively have the necessary powers and responsibilities to manage their geographical indication , including to create value and to respond to societal demands for products resulting from sustainable production in its three dimensions of economic , environmental and social value , and to operate in the market;


### efficient registration of geographical indications taking into account the appropriate protection of intellectual property rights; and ### efficient registration of geographical indications taking into account the uniform , appropriate and effective protection of intellectual property rights in the eu internal market;


### efficient registration of geographical indications taking into account the appropriate protection of intellectual property rights; and ### efficient and user-friendly registration of geographical indications through a digital system and taking into account the appropriate protection of intellectual property rights; and