### to facilitate the evaluation of the programme , a proper framework for monitoring the results achieved by the programme should be put in place from the very beginning . a mid - term evaluation looking at the achievement of the objectives of the programme , its efficiency and its added value at the european level should be carried out . a final evaluation should , in addition , deal with the long–term impact and the sustainability effects of the programme . those evaluations should be based on the indicators , measuring the effects of the programme . ### to facilitate the evaluation of the programme , a proper framework for monitoring the results achieved by the programme should be put in place from the very beginning . an annual monitoring report on the implementation of the programme , including an analysis of the application of the criteria for assessing the request for support , an interim evaluation looking at the achievement of the objectives of the programme , its efficiency , its added value at the european level and an assessment on the future of the programme after 2020 , including alternative sources of funding , should be carried out . an ex - post evaluation should , in addition , deal with the long–term impact and the sustainability effects of the programme . those evaluations should be based on the indicators , measuring the effects of the programme .


### in order to ensure the efficient and coherent allocation of funds from the union budget and the principle of sound financial management , actions under this programme should complement and be additional to ongoing union programmes , whilst avoiding double funding for the same expenditure . in particular , the commission and the member state concerned , in accordance with their respective responsibilities should ensure at union and member state levels , in all stages of the process , effective coordination in order to ensure consistency , complementarity and synergy between sources of funding supporting actions in the relevant member states with close links to this programme , specifically with measures being financed from the union funds in the member states . ### in order to ensure the efficient and coherent allocation of funds from the union budget and the principle of sound financial management , actions under this programme should complement and be additional to ongoing union programmes , whilst avoiding double funding for the same eligible cost . in particular , the commission and the member state concerned , in accordance with their respective responsibilities should ensure at union and member state levels , in all stages of the process , effective coordination in order to ensure consistency , complementarity and synergy between sources of funding supporting actions in the relevant member states with close links to this programme , specifically with measures being financed from the union funds in the member states .


### against this background , it is necessary to establish a structural reform support programme with the objective of strengthening the capacity of member states to prepare and implement growth - enhancing administrative and structural reforms , including through assistance for the efficient and effective use of the union funds . the programme is intended to contribute to the achievement of common goals towards obtaining economic recovery , job creation , boosting europe ' s competitiveness and stimulating investment in the real economy . ### against this background , it is necessary to establish a structural reform support programme with the objective of strengthening the capacity of member states to prepare and implement growth - enhancing administrative and structural reforms , including through assistance for the efficient and effective use of the union funds , in particular the european structural and investment funds . the programme is intended to contribute to the achievement of common goals towards obtaining economic recovery , economic , social and territorial cohesion , job creation , boosting europe ' s competitiveness and stimulating investment in the real economy .


### the union has a long - lasting experience on providing specific support to national administrations and other authorities of member states as regards capacity building and similar actions in certain sectors and in relation to the implementation of cohesion policy . the experience gained by the union in assisting national authorities carrying out reforms should be used in order to enhance the capacity of the union to provide support to member states . comprehensive and integrated action is indeed necessary in order to provide support to those member states that are undertaking growth - enhancing reforms and request assistance from the union in this respect . ### the union institutions and bodies have a long - lasting experience in providing specific support to national and / or subnational authorities of member states as regards capacity building and similar actions in certain sectors and in relation to the implementation of cohesion policy . the experience gained by the union institutions and bodies in assisting national and regional authorities designing and carrying out inclusive and sustainable reforms should be used in order to enhance the capacity of the union to provide support to interested member states to help improve their growth potential and social cohesion through measures aimed at increasing employment rates , combating exclusion and poverty and raising the accessibility and quality of healthcare and education services . those support measures should be based on a comprehensive and integrated approach that takes into account the links between the different areas covered by reforms and the ability of all levels of government to work together as partners , while respecting each member state’s institutional framework and also involving all stakeholders .


### in order to adapt the list of indicators measuring the achievement of the objectives of the programme , in the light of experience during the implementation of the programme , the power to adopt delegated 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 the amendment of the list . it is of particular importance that the commission carries out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level . the commission , when preparing and drawing up delegated acts , should ensure a simultaneous , timely and appropriate transmission of relevant documents to the european parliament and to the council . ### in order to adopt multi - annual work programmes and to adapt the list of indicators measuring the achievement of the objectives of the programme , in the light of experience during the implementation of the programme , 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 the adoption of multi - annual work programmes and the amendment of the list . it is of particular importance that the commission carries out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level , and that those consultations be conducted in accordance with the principles laid down in the interinstitutional agreement on better law - making of 13 april 2016 . in particular , to ensure equal participation in the preparation of delegated acts , the european parliament and the council receive all documents at the same time as member states ' experts , and their experts systematically have access to meetings of commission expert groups dealing with the preparation of delegated acts .


### considering the importance of sustaining the efforts of member states in pursuing and implementing structural , institutional and administrative reforms , it is necessary to allow a co - financing rate of 100% of the eligible costs in order to achieve the objectives of the programme , whilst ensuring compliance with the principles of co - financing and no - profit . ### considering the importance of sustaining the efforts of member states in pursuing and implementing structural , institutional and administrative reforms , it is necessary to allow a co - financing rate for grants of up to 100% of the eligible costs in order to achieve the objectives of the programme , whilst ensuring compliance with the principles of co - financing and no - profit .


### the development and implementation of solutions that address national challenges which have impact on cross - border or union - wide challenges ; ### the development and implementation of solutions that address national challenges with a possible cross - border or union - wide impact ;


### organisation of local operational support in areas such as asylum , migration , border control ; ### organisation of local operational support ;


### the union has a long - lasting experience on providing specific support to national administrations and other authorities of member states as regards capacity building and similar actions in certain sectors and in relation to the implementation of cohesion policy . the experience gained by the union in assisting national authorities carrying out reforms should be used in order to enhance the capacity of the union to provide support to member states . comprehensive and integrated action is indeed necessary in order to provide support to those member states that are undertaking growth - enhancing reforms and request assistance from the union in this respect . ### the union has a long - lasting experience with concrete actions and existing funding on providing specific support to national administrations and other authorities of member states as regards capacity building and similar actions in certain sectors and especially in relation to the implementation of cohesion policy . the experience gained by the union in assisting national authorities carrying out reforms should be used in order to enhance the capacity of the union to provide support to member states . comprehensive and integrated action exists and is indeed necessary in order to provide support to those member states that are undertaking growth - enhancing reforms and request assistance from the union in this respect .


### the general objective of the programme shall be to contribute to institutional , administrative and structural reforms in the member states by providing support to national authorities for measures aimed at reforming institutions , governance , administration , economic and social sectors in response to economic and social challenges with a view to enhancing competitiveness , growth , jobs , and investment , in particular in the context of economic governance processes , including through assistance for the efficient and effective use of the union funds . ### the general objective of the programme shall be to contribute to institutional , administrative and structural reforms carried out in a socially responsible way in the member states by providing technical support to national authorities for designing and implementing measures aimed at enhancing competitiveness , inclusive and sustainable growth , decent and sustainable jobs , productivity and sustainable investment , at reinforcing the fight against poverty and social exclusion , at promoting a high level of education and training and at enhancing economic , social and territorial cohesion , in particular in the context of economic governance processes , including through assistance for the efficient and effective use of the union funds .


### a member state wishing to receive support under the programme shall submit a request for support to the commission , identifying the policy areas and the priorities for support within the scope of the programme as set out in article 5 . this request shall be submitted at the latest by 31 october of each calendar year . ### a member state wishing to receive support under the programme shall submit a request for support to the commission , identifying the policy areas and the priorities for support within the scope of the programme as set out in article 5 . this request shall be submitted at the latest by 31 october of each calendar year . before submitting a request , member states shall involve their parliament and , in line with the partnership principle as referred to in article 5 of regulation no 1303 / 2013 , their partners from regional and local authorities , social partners and representatives of civil society .


### the commission communications ‘ the eu budget review’13 and ‘ a budget for europe 2020’14 underline the importance of focusing funding on activities with clear european added value , i . e . where the union intervention can bring additional value compared to action of member states alone . against this background , the support actions carried out under the programme should ensure complementarity and synergy with other programmes and policies at national , union and international level . the actions under the programme should allow elaborating and implementing solutions that address national challenges which have impact on cross - border or union - wide challenges and achieve a consistent and coherent implementation of union law . in addition , they should contribute to further develop trust and promote cooperation with the commission and among member states . moreover , the union is in a better position than member states to provide a platform for the provision and sharing of good practices from peers as well as to mobilise expertise . __________________ 13 com700 of 19 october 2010 . 14 com500 final of 29 june 2011 . ### the commission communications ‘ the eu budget review’13 and ‘ a budget for europe 2020’14 underline the importance of focusing funding on actions and activities with clear european added value , i . e . where the union intervention can bring additional value compared to action of member states alone . against this background , the support actions and activities carried out under the programme should ensure complementarity and synergy with other programmes and policies at regional , national and union levels , as set out in the common strategic framework established under regulation no 1303 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council , as well as the international level where appropriate . the actions and activities under the programme should allow elaborating and implementing solutions that address national challenges which have impact on cross - border or union - wide challenges and achieve a consistent and coherent implementation of union law . in addition , they should contribute to further develop trust and promote cooperation with the commission and among member states . moreover , the union is in a better position than member states to provide a platform for the provision and sharing of good practices from peers as well as to mobilise expertise . __________________ 13 com700 of 19 october 2010 . 14 com500 final of 29 june 2011 .


### taking into account the principles of transparency , equal treatment and sound financial management , further to a dialogue with the member state , including in the context of the european semester , the commission shall analyse the request for support referred to in paragraph 1 based on the urgency , breadth and depth of the problems identified , support needs in respect of the policy areas concerned , analysis of socioeconomic indicators and general administrative capacity of the member state . taking into account the existing actions and measures financed by union funds or other union programmes , the commission in close cooperation with the member state concerned shall identify the priority areas for support , the scope of the support measures to be provided and the global financial contribution for such support . ### taking into account the principles of transparency , equal treatment and sound financial management , further to a dialogue with the member state , including in the context of the european semester , the commission shall analyse the request for support referred to in paragraph 1 of this article based on the urgency , breadth and depth of the problems identified , support needs in respect of the policy areas concerned , analysis of socioeconomic indicators and general administrative capacity of the member state . based on this analysis and taking into account the existing actions and activities financed by union funds or other union programmes , the commission shall come to an agreement with the member state concerned on the priority areas for support , the objectives , an indicative timeline , the scope of the support to be provided and the estimated global financial contribution for such support in a cooperation and support plan .


### taking into account the principles of transparency , equal treatment and sound financial management , further to a dialogue with the member state , including in the context of the european semester , the commission shall analyse the request for support referred to in paragraph 1 based on the urgency , breadth and depth of the problems identified , support needs in respect of the policy areas concerned , analysis of socioeconomic indicators and general administrative capacity of the member state . taking into account the existing actions and measures financed by union funds or other union programmes , the commission in close cooperation with the member state concerned shall identify the priority areas for support , the scope of the support measures to be provided and the global financial contribution for such support . ### taking into account the principles of subsidiarity , transparency , equal treatment and sound financial management , further to a dialogue with the member state , including in the context of the european semester , the commission shall analyse the request for support referred to in paragraph 1 based on the urgency , breadth and depth of the problems as identified , the justification for the reform , including the results of relevant stakeholder and partner consultations , support needs in respect of the policy areas envisaged , analysis of socioeconomic indicators , the general administrative capacity of the member state , while also taking into account existing actions and measures financed by union funds or other union programmes and instruments . the decision to providing support under the programme shall take the form of a technical assistance agreement in which , based on the specific needs identified by the member state concerned , the commission and the member state shall agree on the priority areas , the scope and the indicative timeline of the support measures to be provided as well as the global financial contribution for such support .


### in order to adapt the list of indicators measuring the achievement of the objectives of the programme , in the light of experience during the implementation of the programme , the power to adopt delegated 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 the amendment of the list . it is of particular importance that the commission carries out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level . the commission , when preparing and drawing up delegated acts , should ensure a simultaneous , timely and appropriate transmission of relevant documents to the european parliament and to the council . ### in order to adapt the list of indicators measuring the achievement of the objectives of the programme , in the light of experience during the implementation of the programme , the power to adopt delegated 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 the amendment of the list .


### support may also be provided by individual experts who may be invited to contribute to selected activities organised under the programme wherever that is necessary for the achievement of the specific objectives set out in articles 5 . ### support may also be provided by individual experts who may be invited to contribute to selected activities organised under the programme wherever that is necessary for the achievement of the specific objectives set out in article 5 .


### ensure close cooperation between those responsible for implementation at union and national level to deliver coherent and streamlined support actions . ### ensure close cooperation between those responsible for implementation at union , national and regional level to deliver coherent and streamlined support actions . the commission shall make its best effort to ensure complementarity and synergies with support provided by other relevant international organisations .


### the interim evaluation report shall include information on the achievement of the programme ' s objectives , the efficiency of the use of resources and the programme’s european added value and assessment on whether funding in areas covered by the programme needs to be adapted or extended after 2020 . it shall also address the continued relevance of all objectives and actions . the ex - post evaluation report shall include information on the longer - term impact of the programme . ### the interim evaluation report shall include information on the achievement of the programme ' s objectives , the efficiency of the use of resources and the programme ' s european added value and assessment on whether funding in areas covered by the programme needs to be adapted or extended or suspended after 2020 , and if other funding sources could be considered . it shall also address the continued relevance of all objectives and actions . the ex - post evaluation report shall include information on the longer - term impact of the programme .


### in order to implement the programme , the commission shall adopt , by way of implementing acts , multi - annual work programmes . multi - annual work programmes shall set out the policy objectives pursued through the envisaged support and the expected results , as well as funding priorities in the relevant policy areas . the multi - annual work programmes shall be further specified in annual work programmes , adopted by way of implementing acts , identifying the measures needed for their implementation , together with all the elements required by regulation no 966 / 2012 . ### the commission is empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 16 in order to supplement this regulation by establishing multi - annual work programmes . multi - annual work programmes shall set out the policy objectives pursued through the envisaged support and the expected results , as well as funding priorities in the relevant policy areas . the multi - annual work programmes shall be further specified in annual work programmes , adopted by way of implementing acts , identifying the measures needed for their implementation , together with all the elements required by regulation no 966 / 2012 .


### the interim evaluation report shall include information on the achievement of the programme ' s objectives , the efficiency of the use of resources and the programme’s european added value and assessment on whether funding in areas covered by the programme needs to be adapted or extended after 2020 . it shall also address the continued relevance of all objectives and actions . the ex - post evaluation report shall include information on the longer - term impact of the programme . ### the interim evaluation report shall include information on the achievement of the programme ' s objectives , the efficiency of the use of resources and the programme ' s european added value and assessment on whether funding in areas covered by the programme needs to be re - established under the next financial framework with a dedicated financial envelope . it shall also address the continued relevance of all objectives and actions . the ex - post evaluation report shall include information on the longer - term impact of the programme .


### against this background , it is necessary to establish a structural reform support programme with the objective of strengthening the capacity of member states to prepare and implement growth - enhancing administrative and structural reforms , including through assistance for the efficient and effective use of the union funds . the programme is intended to contribute to the achievement of common goals towards obtaining economic recovery , job creation , boosting europe ' s competitiveness and stimulating investment in the real economy . ### against this background , it is necessary to establish a structural reform support programme with the objective of strengthening the capacity of member states to prepare and implement growth - enhancing administrative and structural reforms , including through assistance for the efficient and effective use of the union funds , in particular the european structural and investment funds . the programme is intended to contribute to the achievement of common goals towards obtaining economic recovery , economic , social and territorial cohesion , job creation , boosting europe ' s competitiveness and stimulating investment in the real economy .


### to facilitate the evaluation of the programme , a proper framework for monitoring the results achieved by the programme should be put in place from the very beginning . a mid - term evaluation looking at the achievement of the objectives of the programme , its efficiency and its added value at the european level should be carried out . a final evaluation should , in addition , deal with the long–term impact and the sustainability effects of the programme . those evaluations should be based on the indicators , measuring the effects of the programme . ### to facilitate the evaluation of the programme , a proper framework for monitoring the results achieved by the programme should be put in place from the very beginning . a mid - term evaluation looking at the achievement of the objectives of the programme , its efficiency and its added value at the european level should be carried out . a final independent evaluation should , in addition , deal with the long–term impact and the sustainability effects of the programme prior to possible renewal of the instrument . those evaluations should be based on the indicators , measuring the effects of the programme .


### the commission shall provide the european parliament and the council with an interim evaluation report , by mid of 2019 , at the latest , and an ex - post evaluation report by end of december 2021 . ### the commission shall provide the european parliament and the council with an annual monitoring report on the implementation of the programme including an analysis of the application of the criteria referred to in article 7 for assessing the requests for support submitted by member states , an interim evaluation report , by mid of 2019 , at the latest , and an ex - post evaluation report by end of december 2021 .


### on the basis of a proposal from the commission , the council shall adopt an annual union resettlement plan in the year preceding that in which it is to be implemented . ### on the basis of a proposal from the commission , the council shall adopt an annual union resettlement plan in the year preceding that in which it is to be implemented that shall apply to those member states that choose to participate in the resettlement for the following year .


### the precise number of persons to be resettled from the maximum total number as set out in the annual union resettlement plan provided for in point of article 7 and details about the participation of the member states in the targeted union resettlement scheme ; ### the precise number of persons to be resettled from the maximum total number as set out in the annual union resettlement plan provided for in point of article 7 and details about the member states that choose to participate in the targeted union resettlement scheme ;


### this regulation establishes a union resettlement framework for the admission of third - country nationals and stateless persons to the territory of the member states with a view to granting them international protection . ### this regulation establishes a union resettlement framework for the admission of third - country nationals and stateless persons to the territory of the member states that choose to participate in the resettlement scheme with a view to granting them international protection .


### both types of procedure consist of the following stages : identification , registration , assessment and decision . ### both types of procedure consist of the following stages : identification , registration , assessment and decision , and should be implemented in close cooperation with the unhcr .


### the common standard procedures should build on the existing resettlement experience and standards of the member states , in particular the standard operating procedures guiding the implementation of the resettlement scheme with turkey set out in the eu - turkey statement of 18 march 2016 . the union resettlement framework should allow the use of two types of standard resettlement procedures . ### the common standard procedures should build on the existing resettlement experience and standards of the unhcr , the member states , and in particular the standard operating procedures guiding the implementation of the resettlement scheme with turkey set out in the eu - turkey statement of 18 march 2016 . the union resettlement framework should allow the use of two types of standard resettlement procedures .


### the choice of the resettlement procedure should be made for each targeted union resettlement scheme . an expedited procedure might be warranted on humanitarian grounds or in case of urgent legal or physical protection needs . ### the choice of the resettlement procedure should be made for each targeted union resettlement scheme in close cooperation with the unhcr . an expedited procedure might be warranted on humanitarian grounds or in case of urgent legal or physical protection needs .


### any personal data collected for the purpose of the resettlement procedure should be stored for a maximum period of five years from the date of resettlement . given that third - country nationals or stateless persons who have already been resettled by one member state or who during the last five years refused to resettle to a member state should be excluded from resettlement to another member state , that period should be considered a necessary period for the storage of personal details , including fingerprints and facial images . ### any personal data collected for the purpose of the resettlement procedure should be stored for a maximum period of five years from the date of resettlement . given that third - country nationals or stateless persons who have already been resettled by one member state or who during the last five years refused to resettle to a member state should be ineligible for resettlement to another member state , that period should be considered a necessary period for the storage of personal details , including fingerprints and facial images .


### member states shall ensure that family unity can be maintained between persons referred to in point . ### member states shall ensure that family unity can be maintained in accordance with article 25 of the regulation 2017 / . . . of the european parliament and of the council1a . _________________ 1a regulation 2017 / … of the european parliament and the council on standards for the qualification of third - country nationals or stateless persons as beneficiaries of international protection , for a uniform status for refugees or for persons eligible for subsidiary protection and for the content of the protection granted and amending council directive 2003 / 109 / ec of 25 november 2003 concerning the status of third - country nationals who are long - term residents


### details about the participation of the member states in the annual union resettlement plan and their contributions to the total number of persons to be resettled ; ### details about the member states that choose to participate in the annual union resettlement plan and their voluntary contributions to the total number of persons to be resettled ;


### in order to contribute to the enhancement of the competitiveness and innovation capacity of the union ' s defence industry , a european defence industrial development programme should be established . the programme should aim at enhancing the competitiveness of the union ' s defence industry inter alia cyber defence by supporting the cooperation between undertakings in the development phase of defence products and technologies . the development phase , which follows the research and technology phase , entails significant risks and costs that hamper the further exploitation of the results of research and adversely impact the competitiveness of the union ' s defence industry . by supporting the development phase , the programme would contribute to a better exploitation of the results of defence research and it would help to cover the gap between research and production as well as to promote all forms of innovation . the programme should complement activities carried out in accordance with article 182 tfeu and it does not cover the production of defence products and technologies . ### in order to contribute to the enhancement of the competitiveness and innovation capacity of the union’s defence industry and to consolidate the union’s strategic defence autonomy , a european defence industrial development programme should be established . the programme should aim at enhancing the competitiveness of the union ' s defence industry inter alia cyber defence by supporting the cooperation between undertakings in the development phase of defence products and technologies . the development phase , which follows the research and technology phase , entails significant risks and costs that hamper the further exploitation of the results of research and adversely impact the competitiveness of the union ' s defence industry . by supporting the development phase , the programme would contribute to a better exploitation of the results of defence research and it would help to cover the gap between research and production as well as to promote all forms of innovation . the programme should complement activities carried out in accordance with article 182 tfeu and it does not cover the production of defence products and technologies .


### the action shall be undertaken in a cooperation of at least three undertakings which are established in at least two different member states . the undertakings which are beneficiaries shall not effectively be controlled , directly or indirectly , by the same entity or shall not control each other . ### the action shall be undertaken in a cooperation of at least three undertakings which are established in at least three different member states . the undertakings which are beneficiaries shall not effectively be controlled , directly or indirectly , by the same entity or shall not control each other .


### in view of the specificities of the sector , in practice no collaborative project between undertakings will be launched if the member states have not first agreed to support such projects . after having defined common defence capability priorities at union - level and also taking into account where appropriate collaborative initiatives on a regional basis , member states identify and consolidate military requirements and define the technical specifications of the project . they may also appoint a project manager in charge of leading the work related to the development of a collaborative project . ### in view of the specificities of the sector , in practice no collaborative project between undertakings will be launched if the member states have not first agreed to support such projects . after having defined common defence capability priorities at union - level and also taking into account where appropriate collaborative initiatives on a regional basis , member states identify and consolidate defence requirements and define the technical specifications of the project . they should also appoint a project manager in charge of leading the work related to the development of a collaborative project .


### in order to contribute to the enhancement of the competitiveness and innovation capacity of the union ' s defence industry , a european defence industrial development programme should be established . the programme should aim at enhancing the competitiveness of the union ' s defence industry inter alia cyber defence by supporting the cooperation between undertakings in the development phase of defence products and technologies . the development phase , which follows the research and technology phase , entails significant risks and costs that hamper the further exploitation of the results of research and adversely impact the competitiveness of the union ' s defence industry . by supporting the development phase , the programme would contribute to a better exploitation of the results of defence research and it would help to cover the gap between research and production as well as to promote all forms of innovation . the programme should complement activities carried out in accordance with article 182 tfeu and it does not cover the production of defence products and technologies . ### in order to contribute to the enhancement of the competitiveness and innovation capacity of the union ' s defence industry and to consolidate the union’s strategic autonomy and technological non - dependence in matters of defence , a european defence industrial development programme should be established . the programme should aim at enhancing the competitiveness and performance of the union ' s defence industry inter alia cyber defence by supporting the cooperation between undertakings in the development phase of defence products and technologies . the development phase , which follows the research and technology phase , entails significant risks and costs that hamper the further exploitation of the results of research and adversely impact the competitiveness of the union ' s defence industry . by supporting the development phase , the programme would contribute to a better exploitation of the results of defence research and it would help to cover the gap between research and production as well as to promote all forms of innovation . the programme should complement activities carried out in accordance with article 182 tfeu and it does not cover the production of defence products and technologies .


### in order to ensure that the funded actions will contribute to the competitiveness of the european defence industry , they should be market - oriented and demand driven . therefore , the fact that member states have already committed to jointly produce and procure the final product or technology , possibly in a coordinated way , should be taken into account in the award criteria . ### in order to ensure that the funded actions will contribute to the competitiveness and efficiency of the european defence industry , they should be market - oriented and demand driven . therefore , the fact that member states have already committed to jointly produce and procure the final product or technology , possibly in a coordinated way , should be taken into account in the award criteria .


### beneficiaries shall be undertakings established in the union , in which member states and / or nationals of member states own more than 50 % of the undertaking and effectively control it within the meaning of article 6 , whether directly or indirectly through one or more intermediate undertakings . in addition , all infrastructure , facilities , assets and resources used by the participants , including subcontractors and other third parties , in actions funded under the programme shall not be located on the territory of non - member states during the entire duration of the action . ### beneficiaries and their subcontractors shall be public or private undertakings established in the union .


### as the objective of the programme is to support the competitiveness of the union defence industry by de - risking the development phase of cooperative projects , actions related to the development of a defence product or technology , namely definition of common technical specifications , design , prototyping , testing , qualification , certification as well feasibility studies and other supporting measures , should be eligible to benefit from it . this will also apply to the upgrade of existing defence products and technologies . ### as the objective of the programme is to support the competitiveness of the union defence industry by de - risking the development phase of cooperative projects , actions related to the development of a defence product or technology , namely definition of common technical specifications , design , prototyping , testing , qualification , certification as well feasibility studies and other supporting measures , should be eligible to benefit from it . this will also apply to the upgrade of existing defence products and technologies developed in the union and held by member states as well as more generally technologies recognised as strategic by the european defence agency .


### beneficiaries shall be undertakings established in the union , in which member states and / or nationals of member states own more than 50% of the undertaking and effectively control it within the meaning of article 6 , whether directly or indirectly through one or more intermediate undertakings . in addition , all infrastructure , facilities , assets and resources used by the participants , including subcontractors and other third parties , in actions funded under the programme shall not be located on the territory of non - member states during the entire duration of the action . ### beneficiaries shall be undertakings established in the union or in a third country identified in the work programme . all infrastructure , facilities , assets and resources used by the participants , including subcontractors and other third parties , in actions funded under the programme shall be located on the territory of the member states or third countries identified in the work programme during the entire duration of the action .


### eligible actions developed in the context of permanent structured cooperation in the institutional framework of the union would ensure enhanced cooperation between undertakings in the different member states on a continuous basis and thus directly contribute to the aims of the programme . such projects should thus be eligible for an increased funding rate . ### eligible actions developed in the context of the permanent structured cooperation in the institutional framework of the union agreed between the foreign affairs ministers and defence ministers of 23 member states on 13 november 2017 would ensure enhanced cooperation between undertakings in the different member states on a continuous basis and thus directly contribute to the aims of the programme . such projects should thus be eligible for an increased funding rate .


### the commission shall not own the products or technologies resulting from the action nor shall it have any ipr claim pertaining to the action . ### the commission shall not own the products or technologies resulting from the action nor shall it have any ipr claim pertaining to the action . technological products developed or manufactured with the help of this european fund may not be the subject of a transfer of technology or any intellectual property right for the benefit of a third state outside the european union , or for the benefit of any economic actor that is not controlled by a member state .


### given that the programme aims particularly at enhancing cooperation between undertakings across member states , an action should be eligible for funding under the programme only if it is undertaken by a cooperation of at least three undertakings based in at least two different member states . ### given that the programme aims particularly at enhancing cooperation between public or private undertakings across member states , an action should be eligible for funding under the programme only if it is undertaken by a cooperation of at least three undertakings based in at least three different member states .


### beneficiaries shall be undertakings established in the union , in which member states and / or nationals of member states own more than 50% of the undertaking and effectively control it within the meaning of article 6 , whether directly or indirectly through one or more intermediate undertakings . in addition , all infrastructure , facilities , assets and resources used by the participants , including subcontractors and other third parties , in actions funded under the programme shall not be located on the territory of non - member states during the entire duration of the action . ### beneficiaries shall be public or private undertakings established in the union . the beneficiaries ' and their subcontractors ' infrastructure , facilities , assets and resources used for the purposes of the actions funded under the programme shall be located on the territory of the union during the entire duration of the action , and their executive management structures shall be established in the union . for the purposes of the actions funded under the programme , the beneficiaries and their subcontractors shall not be subject exclusively controlled by third countries or by entities established in third countries . a beneficiary controlled by third countries or by entities established in third countries shall only be considered to be an eligible entity if the member state in which it is located provides sufficient assurances that the control of the beneficiary&#160 ; by third countries or by entities established therein will not contravene the security and defence interests of the union and of its member states .


### as the programme aims at enhancing the competitiveness of the union ' s defence industry , only entities established in the union and effectively controlled by member states or their nationals should be eligible for support . additionally , in order to ensure the protection of essential security interests of the union and its member states , the infrastructure , facilities , assets and resources used by the beneficiaries and subcontractors in actions funded under the programme , shall not be located on the territory of non - member states . ### as the programme aims at enhancing the competitiveness of the union ' s defence industry and consolidating the union’s strategic defence autonomy , only entities established in the union and effectively controlled by member states or their nationals should be eligible for support . additionally , in order to ensure the protection of essential security interests of the union and its member states , the infrastructure , facilities , assets and resources used by the beneficiaries and subcontractors in actions funded under the programme , shall not be located on the territory of non - member states .


### the commission should establish a multiannual work programme in line with the objectives of the programme . the commission should be assisted in the establishment of the work programme by a committee of member states . in light of the union policy on small and medium enterprises as key to ensuring economic growth , innovation , job creation , and social integration in the union and the fact that the supported actions will typically require trans - national collaboration , it is of importance that the work programme will reflect and enable such cross - border participation of smes and that therefore a proportion of the overall budget will benefit such action . ### the commission should establish a multiannual work programme in line with the objectives of the programme . the commission should be assisted in the establishment of the work programme by a committee of member states . in light of the union policy on small and medium enterprises as key to ensuring economic growth , innovation , job creation , and social integration in the union and the fact that the supported actions will typically require trans - national collaboration , it is of importance that the work programme will reflect and enable such cross - border participation of smes and that therefore at least 10% of the overall budget will benefit such action .


### in the european defence action plan , adopted on 30 november 2016 , the commission committed to complement , leverage and consolidate collaborative efforts by member states in developing defence capabilities to respond to security challenges , as well as to foster a competitive and innovative european defence industry . it proposed in particular to launch a european defence fund to support investment in joint research and the joint development of defence equipment and technologies . the fund would support cooperation during the whole cycle of defence product and technology development . ### in the european defence action plan , adopted on 30 november 2016 , the commission committed to complement , leverage and consolidate collaborative efforts by member states in developing defence capabilities to respond to security challenges , as well as to foster a competitive and innovative european defence industry . it proposed in particular to launch a european defence fund to support investment in joint research and the joint development of defence equipment and technologies . the fund should complement national defence budgets and serve to encourage member states to invest more in defence . the fund would support cooperation during the whole cycle of defence product and technology development .


### several programmes for union action exist currently in the fields of competitiveness of enterprises including smes , consumer protection , customers and end - users in financial services , policy making in financial services and food chain . some additional activities are financed directly under the internal market budget lines . it is necessary to streamline and exploit synergies between various actions and provide for a more flexible and agile framework to finance activities aiming to achieve a well - functioning internal market in the most cost - efficient manner . it is therefore necessary to establish a new programme bringing together activities financed previously under those other programmes and other relevant budget lines . the programme should also include new initiatives which aim to improve the functioning of the internal market . ### several programmes for union action exist currently in the fields of competitiveness of enterprises including smes , consumer protection , customers and end - users in financial services , policy making in financial services and food chain . some additional activities are financed directly under the internal market budget lines . it is necessary to streamline and exploit synergies between various actions and provide for a more flexible and agile framework to finance activities aiming to achieve a well - functioning internal market in the most cost - efficient manner . it is therefore necessary to establish a new programme bringing together activities financed previously under those other programmes and other relevant budget lines . the programme should also include new initiatives which aim to improve the functioning of the internal market and its development .


### this regulation should be implemented in compliance with regulation no 966 / 2012 of the european parliament and of the council18 on the financial rules applicable to the annual budget of the european union . the commission should adopt multi - annual work programmes that set out the political objectives pursued , the expected results of the support and the funding priorities in the respective policy areas . those elements should be further specified in annual work programmes adopted by implementing acts . __________________ 18 regulation no 966 / 2012 of the european parliament and of the council of 25 october 2012 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the union and repealing council regulation no 1605 / 2002 . ### this regulation should be implemented in compliance with regulation no 966 / 2012 . the commission should adopt by delegated acts multi - annual work programmes that set out the political objectives pursued , the expected results of the support and the funding priorities in the respective policy areas . those elements should be further specified in annual work programmes adopted by implementing acts .


### the commission communications ‘ the eu budget review’13 and ‘ a budget for europe 2020’14 underline the importance of focusing funding on activities with clear european added value , i . e . where the union intervention can bring additional value compared to action of member states alone . against this background , the support actions carried out under the programme should ensure complementarity and synergy with other programmes and policies at national , union and international level . the actions under the programme should allow elaborating and implementing solutions that address national challenges which have impact on cross - border or union - wide challenges and achieve a consistent and coherent implementation of union law . in addition , they should contribute to further develop trust and promote cooperation with the commission and among member states . moreover , the union is in a better position than member states to provide a platform for the provision and sharing of good practices from peers as well as to mobilise expertise . __________________ 13 com700 of 19 october 2010 . 14 com500 final of 29 june 2011 . ### the commission communications ' the eu budget review ' 13 and ' a budget for europe 2020 ' 14 underline the importance of focusing funding on activities with clear european added value , i . e . where the union intervention can bring additional value compared to action of member states alone as laid down in regulation no 966 / 2012 of the european parliament and of the council 14a and its rules of application . against this background , the support actions carried out under the programme should ensure complementarity and synergy , at national , union and international level , with other programmes and policies . the actions under the programme should allow elaborating and implementing solutions that address national challenges with a cross - border or union - wide impact and improve implementation of union law . moreover , the union is in a better position than member states to provide a platform for the provision and sharing of good practices from peers as well as to mobilise expertise . __________________ 13 com700 of 19 october 2010 . 14 com500 final of 29 june 2011 . 14a regulation no 966 / 2012 of the european parliament and of the council of 25 october 2012 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the union and repealing council regulation no 1605 / 2002 .


### considering the importance of sustaining the efforts of member states in pursuing and implementing structural , institutional and administrative reforms , it is necessary to allow a co - financing rate of 100% of the eligible costs in order to achieve the objectives of the programme , whilst ensuring compliance with the principles of co - financing and no - profit . ### considering the importance of sustaining the efforts of member states in pursuing and implementing structural , institutional and administrative reforms , it is necessary to allow a co - financing rate of up to 100% of the eligible costs in order to achieve the objectives of the programme , whilst ensuring compliance with the principles of co - financing and no - profit .


### since the objective of this regulation , namely to contribute to the institutional , administrative and structural reforms in the member states by providing support to national authorities for measures aimed at reforming institutions , governance , administration , economic and social sectors , including through assistance for the efficient and effective use of the union funds cannot be sufficiently achieved by the member states alone , but can rather , by reason of their scale and effects , be better achieved at union level , the union may adopt measures , in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity as set out in article 5 of the treaty on european union . in accordance with the principle of proportionality , as set out in that article , this regulation does not go beyond what is necessary in order to achieve that objective , since the scope of the support would be mutually agreed with the member state concerned . ### since the objective of this regulation , namely to contribute to the institutional , administrative and structural reforms in the member states by providing technical assistance , including through assistance for the efficient and effective use of the union funds , cannot be sufficiently achieved by the member states alone , but can rather , by reason of their scale and effects , be better achieved at union level , the union may adopt measures , in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity as set out in article 5 of the treaty on european union . in accordance with the principle of proportionality , as set out in that article , this regulation does not go beyond what is necessary in order to achieve that objective .


### against this background , it is necessary to establish a structural reform support programme with the objective of strengthening the capacity of member states to prepare and implement growth - enhancing administrative and structural reforms , including through assistance for the efficient and effective use of the union funds . the programme is intended to contribute to the achievement of common goals towards obtaining economic recovery , job creation , boosting europe ' s competitiveness and stimulating investment in the real economy . ### against this background , it is necessary to establish a structural reform support programme with the objective of strengthening the capacity of member states to prepare and implement growth - enhancing administrative and structural reforms , including through assistance for the efficient and effective use of the union funds . the programme is intended to contribute to the achievement of common goals towards obtaining economic recovery , boosting europe ' s competitiveness , creating jobs , increasing productivity , stimulating investment in the real economy and , ultimately , strengthening economic , social and territorial cohesion in the european union .


### member states that request support should be able to contribute to the financial envelope of the programme with additional funds . currently , regulation no 1303 / 2013 limits the possibility of a transfer of resources dedicated to technical assistance at the initiative of a member state to those member states which face temporary budgetary difficulties . regulation no 1303 / 2013 should therefore be amended in order to allow all member states to participate financially to the programme . the resources transferred to the union budget should be used for supporting actions contributing to smart , sustainable and inclusive growth or fund - specific purposes in the member states concerned . ### member states that request support should have the possibility to contribute to the financial envelope of the programme with additional funds . currently , regulation no 1303 / 2013 limits the possibility of a transfer of resources dedicated to technical assistance at the initiative of a member state to those member states which face temporary budgetary difficulties . regulation no 1303 / 2013 should therefore be amended in order to allow all member states to participate financially to the programme . the resources transferred to the union budget should be used for supporting actions contributing to smart , sustainable and inclusive growth or fund - specific purposes in the member states concerned through improved effectiveness and efficiency and increased absorption of the funds .


### to facilitate the evaluation of the programme , a proper framework for monitoring the results achieved by the programme should be put in place from the very beginning . a mid - term evaluation looking at the achievement of the objectives of the programme , its efficiency and its added value at the european level should be carried out . a final evaluation should , in addition , deal with the long–term impact and the sustainability effects of the programme . those evaluations should be based on the indicators , measuring the effects of the programme . ### to facilitate the evaluation of the programme , a proper framework for monitoring the results achieved by the programme should be put in place from the very beginning . an external mid - term evaluation looking at the achievement of the objectives of the programme , its efficiency and its added value at the european level should be carried out . a final evaluation should , in addition , deal with the long–term impact and the sustainability effects of the programme . those evaluations should be based on the indicators , measuring the effects of the programme . the commission should also publish information on the implementation of the annual work programmes .


### communication projects : learning , cooperation , awareness raising , dissemination activities , and exchange of good practices ; organisation of awareness - raising and information campaigns , media campaigns and events , including corporate communication ; ### communication projects in the context of the reforms pursued : learning , cooperation , awareness raising , dissemination activities , and exchange of good practices ; organisation of awareness - raising and information campaigns , media campaigns and events ;


### taking into account the principles of transparency , equal treatment and sound financial management , further to a dialogue with the member state , including in the context of the european semester , the commission shall analyse the request for support referred to in paragraph 1 based on the urgency , breadth and depth of the problems identified , support needs in respect of the policy areas concerned , analysis of socioeconomic indicators and general administrative capacity of the member state . taking into account the existing actions and measures financed by union funds or other union programmes , the commission in close cooperation with the member state concerned shall identify the priority areas for support , the scope of the support measures to be provided and the global financial contribution for such support . ### taking into account the principles of transparency , equal treatment and sound financial management , further to a dialogue with the member state , including in the context of the european semester , the commission shall analyse the request for support referred to in paragraph 1 taking into account the principles of transparency , equal treatment and sound financial management and determine the support to be provided based on the urgency , breadth and depth of the problems as identified , the justification for the reform , including the results of relevant stakeholder and partner consultations , support needs in respect of the policy areas envisaged , analysis of socioeconomic indicators , the general administrative capacity of the member state , as well as on the existing actions and measures financed by union funds or other union programmes . in agreement with the member state concerned , the commission shall also set out the priority areas , the scope and the indicative timeline of the support measures to be provided as well as the global financial contribution for such support , in a technical assistance agreement .


### the specific objectives set out in paragraph 1 shall refer to policy areas related to competitiveness , growth , jobs and investment , in particular to the following : ### the specific objectives set out in paragraph 1 shall refer to policy areas related to competitiveness , inclusive growth , sustainable jobs and investment , in particular to the following :


### the general objective of the programme shall be to contribute to institutional , administrative and structural reforms in the member states by providing support to national authorities for measures aimed at reforming institutions , governance , administration , economic and social sectors in response to economic and social challenges with a view to enhancing competitiveness , growth , jobs , and investment , in particular in the context of economic governance processes , including through assistance for the efficient and effective use of the union funds . ### the general objective of the programme shall be to contribute to institutional , administrative and structural reforms in the member states by providing support to national authorities for measures aimed at enhancing competitiveness , inclusive growth , sustainable jobs , productivity and investment , in particular in the context of economic governance processes , including through assistance for the efficient and effective use of the union funds .


### the implementation of reforms by member states , undertaken at their own initiative , notably to achieve sustainable investment , growth and job creation . ### the implementation of reforms by member states , undertaken at their own initiative , notably to achieve sustainable investment and job creation and inclusive growth .


### the programme shall finance actions with european added value . to that effect , the commission shall ensure that actions selected for funding are likely to produce results with european added value and shall monitor whether european added value is actually achieved . ### the programme shall finance actions with european added value . to that effect , the commission shall ensure that actions selected for funding can be expected to produce results with european added value and shall monitor whether european added value is actually achieved .


### in order to ensure the efficient and coherent allocation of funds from the union budget and the principle of sound financial management , actions under this programme should complement and be additional to ongoing union programmes , whilst avoiding double funding for the same expenditure . in particular , the commission and the member state concerned , in accordance with their respective responsibilities should ensure at union and member state levels , in all stages of the process , effective coordination in order to ensure consistency , complementarity and synergy between sources of funding supporting actions in the relevant member states with close links to this programme , specifically with measures being financed from the union funds in the member states . ### in order to ensure the efficient and coherent allocation of funds from the union budget and the principle of sound financial management , actions under this programme should complement and be additional to ongoing union programmes , whilst avoiding double funding for the same expenditure . in particular , the commission and the member state concerned , in accordance with their respective responsibilities should ensure at union and member state levels , in all stages of the process , effective coordination in order to ensure consistency , complementarity and synergy between measures being financed from the union funds .


### the development and implementation of solutions that address national challenges which have impact on cross - border or union - wide challenges ; ### the development and implementation of solutions that address national challenges with a cross - border or union - wide impact ;


### in order to adapt the list of indicators measuring the achievement of the objectives of the programme , in the light of experience during the implementation of the programme , the power to adopt delegated 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 the amendment of the list . it is of particular importance that the commission carries out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level . the commission , when preparing and drawing up delegated acts , should ensure a simultaneous , timely and appropriate transmission of relevant documents to the european parliament and to the council . ### in order to adopt multi - annual work programmes and to adapt the list of indicators measuring the achievement of the objectives of the programme , in the light of experience during the implementation of the programme , 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 the adoption of multi - annual work programmes and the amendment of the list . it is of particular importance that the commission carries out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level . the commission , when preparing and drawing up delegated acts , should ensure a simultaneous , timely and appropriate transmission of relevant documents to the european parliament and to the council .


### to assist the initiatives of national authorities to design their reforms according to priorities , taking into account initial conditions and expected socio - economic impacts ; ### to assist the initiatives of national authorities to design reforms according to their priorities , taking into account initial conditions and expected socio - economic impacts ;


### contributions to trust funds ; ### contributions to trust funds for the provision of support by international organisations ;


### further to a dialogue with the requesting member state , including in the context of the european semester , the commission should analyse the request , taking into account the principles of transparency , equal treatment and sound financial management and determine the support to be provided based on urgency , breadth and depth of the problems as identified , support needs in respect of the policy areas envisaged , analysis of socioeconomic indicators , and the general administrative capacity of the member state . the commission should also , in close cooperation with the member state concerned , identify the priority areas , the scope of the support measures to be provided and the global financial contribution for such support , taking into account the existing actions and measures financed by union funds or other union programmes . ### further to a dialogue with the requesting member state , including in the context of the european semester , the commission should analyse the request , taking into account the principles of transparency , equal treatment and sound financial management and determine the support to be provided based on the urgency , breadth and depth of the problems as identified , the justification for the reform , including the results of relevant stakeholder and partner consultations , support needs in respect of the policy areas envisaged , analysis of socioeconomic indicators , the general administrative capacity of the member state , as well as on the existing actions and measures financed by union funds or other union programmes . in agreement with the member state concerned , the commission should also set out the priority areas , the scope and the indicative timeline of the support measures to be provided as well as the global financial contribution for such support , in a technical assistance agreement .


### organisation of local operational support in areas such as asylum , migration , border control ; ### organisation of local operational support ;


### since the objective of this regulation , namely to contribute to the institutional , administrative and structural reforms in the member states by providing support to national authorities for measures aimed at reforming institutions , governance , administration , economic and social sectors , including through assistance for the efficient and effective use of the union funds cannot be sufficiently achieved by the member states alone , but can rather , by reason of their scale and effects , be better achieved at union level , the union may adopt measures , in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity as set out in article 5 of the treaty on european union . in accordance with the principle of proportionality , as set out in that article , this regulation does not go beyond what is necessary in order to achieve that objective , since the scope of the support would be mutually agreed with the member state concerned . ### since the objective of this regulation , namely to contribute to the institutional , administrative and structural reforms in the member states by providing technical assistance , including through assistance for the efficient and effective use of the union funds , cannot be sufficiently achieved by the member states alone , but can rather , by reason of their scale and effects , be better achieved at union level , the union may adopt measures , in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity as set out in article 5 of the treaty on european union . in accordance with the principle of proportionality , as set out in that article , this regulation does not go beyond what is necessary in order to achieve that objective .


### the commission communications ‘ the eu budget review’13 and ‘ a budget for europe 2020’14 underline the importance of focusing funding on activities with clear european added value , i . e . where the union intervention can bring additional value compared to action of member states alone . against this background , the support actions carried out under the programme should ensure complementarity and synergy with other programmes and policies at national , union and international level . the actions under the programme should allow elaborating and implementing solutions that address national challenges which have impact on cross - border or union - wide challenges and achieve a consistent and coherent implementation of union law . in addition , they should contribute to further develop trust and promote cooperation with the commission and among member states . moreover , the union is in a better position than member states to provide a platform for the provision and sharing of good practices from peers as well as to mobilise expertise . __________________ 13 com700 of 19 october 2010 . 14 com500 final of 29 june 2011 . ### the commission communications ' the eu budget review ' 13 and ' a budget for europe 2020 ' 14 underline the importance of focusing funding on activities with clear european added value , i . e . where the union intervention can bring additional value compared to action of member states alone as laid down in regulation no 966 / 2012 of the european parliament and of the council 14a and its rules of application . against this background , the support actions carried out under the programme should ensure complementarity and synergy , at national , union and international level , with other programmes and policies . the actions under the programme should allow elaborating and implementing solutions that address national challenges with a cross - border or union - wide impact and improve implementation of union law . moreover , the union is in a better position than member states to provide a platform for the provision and sharing of good practices from peers as well as to mobilise expertise . __________________ 13 com700 of 19 october 2010 . 14 com500 final of 29 june 2011 . 14a regulation no 966 / 2012 of the european parliament and of the council of 25 october 2012 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the union and repealing council regulation no 1605 / 2002 .


### to facilitate the evaluation of the programme , a proper framework for monitoring the results achieved by the programme should be put in place from the very beginning . a mid - term evaluation looking at the achievement of the objectives of the programme , its efficiency and its added value at the european level should be carried out . a final evaluation should , in addition , deal with the long–term impact and the sustainability effects of the programme . those evaluations should be based on the indicators , measuring the effects of the programme . ### to facilitate the evaluation of the programme , a proper framework for supervising implementation of the actions and monitoring the results achieved by the programme should be put in place from the very beginning . a mid - term evaluation looking at the achievement of the objectives of the programme , its efficiency and its added value at the european level should be carried out . a final evaluation should , in addition , deal with the long–term impact and the sustainability effects of the programme . those evaluations should be based on the indicators , measuring the effects of the programme . on the basis of the evaluation , the commission would set out further actions .


### in order to implement the programme , the commission shall adopt , by way of implementing acts , multi - annual work programmes . multi - annual work programmes shall set out the policy objectives pursued through the envisaged support and the expected results , as well as funding priorities in the relevant policy areas . the multi - annual work programmes shall be further specified in annual work programmes , adopted by way of implementing acts , identifying the measures needed for their implementation , together with all the elements required by regulation no 966 / 2012 . ### the commission shall adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 16 concerning the adoption of multi - annual work programmes . multi - annual work programmes shall set out the policy objectives pursued through the envisaged support and the expected results , as well as funding priorities in the relevant policy areas . the multi - annual work programmes shall be further specified in annual work programmes , adopted by way of implementing acts , identifying the measures needed for their implementation , together with all the elements required by regulation no 966 / 2012 .


### expertise related to policy advice , policy change , and legislative , institutional , structural and administrative reforms ; ### expertise related to legislative , institutional , structural and administrative reforms ;


### in order to ensure uniform conditions for the implementation of this regulation as regards the adoption of the multi - annual and annual work programmes , implementing powers should be conferred on the commission . ### in order to ensure uniform conditions for the implementation of this regulation as regards the adoption of the annual work programmes , implementing powers should be conferred on the commission .


### taking into account the principles of transparency , equal treatment and sound financial management , further to a dialogue with the member state , including in the context of the european semester , the commission shall analyse the request for support referred to in paragraph 1 based on the urgency , breadth and depth of the problems identified , support needs in respect of the policy areas concerned , analysis of socioeconomic indicators and general administrative capacity of the member state . taking into account the existing actions and measures financed by union funds or other union programmes , the commission in close cooperation with the member state concerned shall identify the priority areas for support , the scope of the support measures to be provided and the global financial contribution for such support . ### taking into account the principles of transparency , equal treatment and sound financial management , further to a dialogue with the member state , including in the context of the european semester , the commission shall analyse the request for support referred to in paragraph 1 taking into account the principles of transparency , equal treatment and sound financial management and determine the support to be provided based on the urgency , breadth and depth of the problems as identified , the justification for the reform , including the results of relevant stakeholder and partner consultations , support needs in respect of the policy areas envisaged , analysis of socioeconomic indicators , the general administrative capacity of the member state , as well as on the existing actions and measures financed by union funds or other union programmes . in agreement with the member state concerned , the commission shall also set out the priority areas , the scope and the indicative timeline of the support measures to be provided as well as the global financial contribution for such support , in a technical assistance agreement .


### the commission shall provide the european parliament and the council with an interim evaluation report , by mid of 2019 , at the latest , and an ex - post evaluation report by end of december 2021 . ### the commission shall publish information on the implementation of the annual work programmes . the commission shall provide the european parliament and the council with an external interim evaluation report , by mid of 2019 , at the latest , and an ex - post evaluation report by end of december 2021 .


### ' the eafrd may also finance actions implemented by the european solidarity corps with an amount of eur 1 800 000 in current prices in accordance with regulation 2017 / xxx , which contribute to one or more of the union priorities for rural development . the allocation shall be implemented solely in accordance with the regulation 2017 / xxx , to the exclusion of the specific requirements of regulation no 1305 / 2013 . ' ### the eafrd may also finance actions implemented by the european solidarity corps with an amount of eur 1 800 000 in current prices in accordance with regulation 2017 / xxx , which contribute to one or more of the union priorities for rural development with the aim of boosting young people’s interest in agriculture . the allocation shall be implemented solely in accordance with the regulation 2017 / xxx , to the exclusion of the specific requirements of regulation no 1305 / 2013 .


### ' the eafrd may also finance actions implemented by the european solidarity corps with an amount of eur 1 800 000 in current prices in accordance with regulation 2017 / xxx , which contribute to one or more of the union priorities for rural development . the allocation shall be implemented solely in accordance with the regulation 2017 / xxx , to the exclusion of the specific requirements of regulation no 1305 / 2013 . ' ### the eafrd may also finance actions implemented by the european solidarity corps with an amount of eur 1 800 000 in current prices in accordance with regulation 2017 / xxx , which contribute to one or more of the union priorities for rural development in order to help boost young people’s interest in agriculture . the allocation shall be implemented solely in accordance with the regulation 2017 / xxx , to the exclusion of the specific requirements of regulation no 1305 / 2013 .


### special attention should be paid to ensuring that the activities supported by the european solidarity corps are accessible to all young people , notably the most disadvantaged ones . special measures should therefore be put in place to promote social inclusion , the participation of disadvantaged young people , as well as to take into account the constraints imposed by the remoteness of the outermost regions of the union and the overseas countries and territories24 . similarly , the participating countries should endeavour to adopt all appropriate measures to remove legal and administrative obstacles to the proper functioning of the european solidarity corps . this includes resolving , where possible , and without prejudice to the schengen acquis and union law on the entry and residence of third - country nationals , administrative issues that create difficulties in obtaining visas and residence permits . _________________ 24 individuals from an overseas country or territory and competent public and / or private bodies and institutions from an oct may participate in the programmes in accordance with council decision 2001 / 822 / ec of 27 november 2001 on the association of the overseas countries and territories with the european community , oj l314 , 30 . 11 . 2001 , p . 1 . ### special attention should be paid to ensuring that the activities supported by the european solidarity corps are accessible to all young people , notably the most disadvantaged ones and those from rural areas . special measures should therefore be put in place to promote social inclusion , the participation of disadvantaged young people , as well as to take into account the constraints imposed by the remoteness of the outermost regions of the union and the overseas countries and territories24 . similarly , the participating countries should endeavour to adopt all appropriate measures to remove legal and administrative obstacles to the proper functioning of the european solidarity corps . this includes resolving , where possible , and without prejudice to the schengen acquis and union law on the entry and residence of third - country nationals , administrative issues that create difficulties in obtaining visas and residence permits . _________________ 24 individuals from an overseas country or territory and competent public and / or private bodies and institutions from an oct may participate in the programmes in accordance with council decision 2001 / 822 / ec of 27 november 2001 on the association of the overseas countries and territories with the european community , oj l314 , 30 . 11 . 2001 , p . 1 .


### contribute to the reduction of the risk of a large - scale irregular inflow of third - country nationals and stateless persons in need of international protection to the territory of the member states ; ### contribute to the reduction of the risk of irregular inflow of third - country nationals and stateless persons in need of international protection to the territory of the member states ;


### a high - level resettlement committee shall be established , composed of representatives of the european parliament , the council , the commission , the high representative of the union for foreign affairs and security policy , and the member states . [ the european union agency for asylum , ] unhcr , and iom may be invited . representatives of iceland , liechtenstein , norway , and switzerland shall be invited to attend the meetings of the high - level resettlement committee where they have indicated their intention to be associated with the implementation of the annual union resettlement plan . ### a high - level resettlement committee shall be established , composed of representatives of the european parliament , the council , the commission , the high representative of the union for foreign affairs and security policy , and the member states . [ the european union agency for asylum , ] unhcr , and iom shall be invited . representatives of iceland , liechtenstein , norway , and switzerland shall be invited to attend the meetings of the high - level resettlement committee where they have indicated their intention to be associated with the implementation of the annual union resettlement plan .


### - the father , mother or another adult responsible for the unmarried minor to be resettled , whether by law or by the practice of the member state where the adult is present ; ### - the father , mother or another adult responsible for the minor to be resettled , whether by law or by the practice of the member state where the adult is present ;


### the precise number of persons to be resettled from the maximum total number as set out in the annual union resettlement plan provided for in point of article 7 and details about the participation of the member states in the targeted union resettlement scheme ; ### the precise number of persons to be resettled from the target number as set out in the annual union resettlement plan provided for in point of article 7 and details about the participation of the member states in the targeted union resettlement scheme ;


### member states shall ensure that family unity can be maintained between persons referred to in point . ### member states shall ensure that family unity can be maintained .


### in order to help reduce the risk of a large - scale irregular inflow of third - country nationals and stateless persons to the territory of the member states , show solidarity with countries in regions to which or within which a large number of persons in need of international protection has been displaced by helping to alleviate the pressure on those countries , and help achieve the union ' s foreign policy objectives , the regions or third countries from which resettlement is to occur should fit in a tailored engagement with third countries to better manage migration as foreseen in the commission ' s communication of 7 june 2016 on establishing a new partnership framework with third countries under the european agenda on migration32 . __________________ 32 com 377 final . ### in order to help reduce the risk of irregular inflow of third - country nationals and stateless persons to the territory of the member states , show solidarity with countries in regions to which or within which a large number of persons in need of international protection has been displaced by helping to alleviate the pressure on those countries , and help achieve the union ' s foreign policy objectives , the regions or third countries from which resettlement is to occur should fit in a tailored engagement with third countries to better manage migration as foreseen in the commission ' s communication of 7 june 2016 on establishing a new partnership framework with third countries under the european agenda on migration32 . __________________ 32 com 377 final .


### complementarity with financial and technical assistance provided to third countries to which or within which persons in need of international protection have been displaced ; ### complementarity with financial and technical assistance , especially aimed at increasing the reception capability and the protection of persons in need of international protection and at developing an effective asylum system to be provided to third countries to which or within which persons in need of international protection have been displaced ;


### the number of persons in need of international protection displaced to or within a third country and any onward movement of those persons to the territory of the member states ; ### the number of persons in need of international protection displaced to or within a third country , its impact on the regional stability of that third country , and any onward movement of those persons to the territory of the member states ;


### - the minor children of couples referred to in the first indent or of third - country nationals or stateless persons to be resettled , on the condition that they are unmarried , regardless of whether they were born in or out of wedlock or adopted as defined under national law ; ### - the minor children of couples referred to in the first indent or of third - country nationals or stateless persons to be resettled , regardless of whether they were born in or out of wedlock or adopted as defined under national law ;


### the scale and content of commitments to resettlement undertaken by third countries . ### the scale and content of commitments to resettlement undertaken by other third countries .


### vulnerable persons : ### vulnerable persons , in particular :


### draft legislative resolution ### calls for an immediate review of the common approach annexed to the joint statement of the european parliament , the council of the european union and the european commission on decentralised agencies of 19 july 2012 to take due account of the role of the european parliament in the decision - making process on the location of agencies in view of its prerogatives as co - legislator under the ordinary legislative procedure ; calls therefore for a close involvement of the european parliament in the decision making process concerning the location of agencies ;


### draft legislative resolution ### approves its statement annexed to this resolution ;


### where the commission considers that the generalised deficiency as regards the rule of law is established , it shall submit a proposal for an implementing act on the appropriate measures to the council . ### where the commission considers that the generalised deficiency as regards the rule of law as defined in article 3 is established , it shall submit a proposal for an implementing act on the appropriate measures to the european parliament for opinion and to the council for decision . after taking into account the european parliament’s opinion , the decision shall be deemed to have been adopted by the council , unless it decides , by qualified majority , to reject the commission proposal within one month of its adoption by the commission . the council , acting by a qualified majority , may amend the commission’s proposal and adopt the amended text as a council decision .


### the council , acting by a qualified majority , may amend the commission’s proposal and adopt the amended text as a council decision . ### the council , acting by unanimity with the non - participation of the member state concerned , may amend the commission’s proposal and adopt the amended text as a council decision .


### appropriate measures shall be taken where a generalised deficiency as regards the rule of law in a member state affects or risks affecting the principles of sound financial management or the protection of the financial interests of the union , in particular : ### generalised deficiencies as regards the rule of law in a member state that affects or risks affecting the principles of sound financial management or the protection of the financial interests of the union are , in particular :


### the commission shall immediately inform the european parliament of any measures proposed or adopted pursuant to articles 4 and 5 ### the commission shall immediately inform the european parliament and the council of any measures proposed or adopted pursuant to articles 4 and 5 .


### the commission may take into account all relevant information , including decisions of the court of justice of the european union , reports of the court of auditors , and conclusions and recommendations of relevant international organisations . ### the commission may take into account all relevant information , including decisions of the court of justice of the european union , reports of the court of auditors , conclusions and recommendations of relevant international organisations and expert opinions of the relevant european union agencies .


### the commission should keep the european parliament informed of any measures proposed and adopted pursuant to this regulation , ### the commission should keep the european parliament and the council informed of any measures proposed and adopted pursuant to this regulation ,


### the decision shall be deemed to have been adopted by the council , unless it decides , by qualified majority , to reject the commission proposal within one month of its adoption by the commission . ### where the commission considers that the generalised deficiency as regards the rule of law as defined in article 3 is established , it shall submit a proposal for a decision on the appropriate measures to the european parliament and to the council for opinion . taking into account the european parliament and council opinions , the commission shall take a decision on the appropriate measures , or a decision not to enforce the rule - of - law conditionality .


### in order to ensure uniform implementation of this regulation and in view of the importance of the financial effects of measures being imposed pursuant to this regulation , implementing powers should be conferred on the council which should act on the basis of a commission proposal . to facilitate the adoption of decisions which are required to protect the financial interests of the union , reversed qualified majority voting should be used . ### in order to ensure uniform implementation of this regulation and in view of the importance of the financial effects of measures being imposed pursuant to this regulation , implementing powers should be conferred on the council which should act on the basis of a commission proposal . to facilitate the adoption of decisions which are required to protect the financial interests of the union , unanimous voting should be used with the non - participation of the member state concerned .


### unless the decision adopting the measures provides otherwise , the imposition of appropriate measures shall not affect the obligation of government entities referred to in point of paragraph 1 or of member states referred to in point of paragraph 1 to implement the programme or fund affected by the measure , and in particular the obligation to make payments to final recipients or beneficiaries . ### unless the decision adopting the measures provides otherwise , the imposition of appropriate measures shall not affect the obligation of government entities referred to in point of paragraph 1 or of member states referred to in point of paragraph 1 to implement the programme or fund affected by the measure , and in particular the obligation to make payments to final recipients or beneficiaries . any decision to enforce conditionality should provide serious guarantees , based on impact assessments , to ensure that final beneficiaries of eu funds are not adversely affected .


### one or more of the following appropriate measures may be adopted ### one or more of the following appropriate measures may be adopted in the case of a&#160 ; generalised deficiency as regards the rule of law :


### ' people with fewer opportunities ' means people facing obstacles that prevent them from having effective access to opportunities under the programme for economic , social , cultural , geographical or health reasons , a migrant background or for reasons such as disability and educational difficulties ; ### ' people with fewer opportunities ' means people who need additional support due to the fact that they are at a disadvantage compared to their peers because of various obstacles , for example disability , age , health problems , educational difficulties , socio - economic status , cultural differences or economic , social or geographical obstacles , including people from a marginalised community , a migrant background or at risk of facing discrimination based on any of the grounds enshrined in article 21 of the charter of fundamental rights of the european union ;