### the programme covers education at all levels , in a lifelong learning perspective , in particular higher education , vocational education and training and adult learning , school education and youth . ### the programme shall cover the following fields : education and training at all levels , in a lifelong learning perspective , including school education , higher education , vocational education and training and adult learning ; youth , in particular in the context of non - formal and informal learning , active citizenship , social inclusion and volunteering ; sport , in particular grassroots sport .


### to enhance the international dimension of education , training and youth notably in higher education by increasing the attractiveness of the union higher education institutions and supporting the union external action , including its development objectives through the promotion of mobility and cooperation between eu and third country higher education institutions and targeted capacity building in third countries . ### to enhance the international dimension of education and training , notably through cooperation between union and third country institutions in the field of vet and in higher education .


### to promote social inclusion , equal opportunities and health - enhancing physical activity through increased participation in sport . ### to promote health - enhancing physical activity through increased participation in sport , especially for older people ;


### the european strategy for smart , sustainable and inclusive growth is defining the union ' s growth strategy for the coming decade to support smart , sustainable and inclusive growth setting five ambitious objectives to be reached by 2020 , particularly in the field of education to reduce early school leaving rates below 10% and to enable at least 40% of 30 - 34 years old to have completed higher education . this also includes its flagships initiatives , in particular ‘ youth on the move’ and the agenda for new skills and jobs . ### the european strategy for smart , sustainable and inclusive growth is defining the union ' s growth strategy for the coming decade to support smart , sustainable and inclusive growth setting five ambitious objectives to be reached by 2020 , particularly in the field of education to reduce early school leaving rates below 10% and to enable at least 40% of 30 - 34 years old to have completed tertiary or equivalent education . this also includes its flagships initiatives , in particular ‘ youth on the move’ and the agenda for new skills and jobs .


### improved transparency of qualifications and competences and extended acceptance of union tools should facilitate mobility throughout europe for lifelong learning purposes , therefore contributing to the development of quality education and training , and will facilitate mobility for occupational purposes , between countries as well as across sectors . opening up access for young students to methods , practices and technologies used in other countries will help to improve their employability in a global economy ; it can also help making jobs with an international profile more attractive . ### improved transparency of qualifications and competences and extended acceptance of union recognition tools should contribute to the development of quality education and training and facilitate mobility for both lifelong learning and occupational purposes throughout europe , between countries as well as across sectors . opening up access for young students to methods , practices and technologies used in other countries will improve their employability in a global economy ; it can also help making jobs with an international profile more attractive .


### the action of the european youth forum , the national academic recognition centres , the eurydice , euroguidance and eurodesk networks , as well as of the etwinning national support services , the europass national centres , and the national information offices in the neighbourhood countries is essential in order to achieve the objectives of the programme , notably by providing the commission with regular and updated information regarding the various fields of their activity and through the dissemination of the programme results in the union and in the third participating countries . ### the action of the european youth forum , the national academic recognition centres , the eurydice , euroguidance and eurodesk networks , as well as of the etwinning national support services , the europass national centres , and the national information offices in the neighbourhood countries is essential in order to achieve the objectives of the programme , notably by providing the commission with regular and updated information regarding the various fields of their activity and through the dissemination of the programme results in the union and the overseas countries and territories associated with it as well as in the third participating countries


### the widespread recognition among the general public in member states and participating third countries of the ‘ erasmus’ brand name as a synonym of union learner mobility pleads for a more extensive use of this brand by the main education sectors covered by the programme . ### the widespread recognition among the general public of the ' lifelong learning ' brand name as synonymous with union learning mobility is such that the use of this brand should be continued for the new programme also .


### the programme shall pursue the following specific objectives in the areas of education , training and youth : ### in addition to the general objectives set out in article 4 , the specific objectives of the programme shall be :


### the funding will be made available through 2 multi annual allocations only covering the first 4 years and the remaining 3 years respectively . this funding will be reflected in the multiannual indicative programming of these instruments , in line with the identified needs and priorities of the countries concerned . the allocations can be revised in case of major unforeseen circumstances or important political changes in line with the eu external priorities . cooperation with non participating countries may be based , where relevant , on additional appropriations from partner countries to be made available in accordance with procedures to be agreed with these countries . ### the funding shall be made available through two multi - annual allocations only covering the first four years and the remaining three years respectively . this funding shall be based on the multiannual indicative programming of the participating instruments , in line with the identified needs and priorities of the countries concerned . the allocations can be revised in the event of major unforeseen circumstances or important political changes in line with the union ' s external priorities . cooperation with third countries may be based , where relevant , on additional appropriations from partner countries to be made available in accordance with procedures to be agreed with those countries .


### the programme aims to contribute to the objectives of the europe 2020 strategy and of the education and training strategic framework 2020 , including the corresponding benchmarks established in those instruments , to renewed framework for european cooperation in the youth field , to the sustainable development of third countries in the field of higher education and to developing the european dimension in sport . ### the programme shall contribute to :


### in addition to the financial envelope as indicated in paragraph 1 , and in order to promote the international dimension of higher education , an indicative amount of eur 1 812 100 000 from the different external instruments , , will be allocated to actions of learning mobility to or from countries other than those as referred to in article 18 and to cooperation and policy dialogue with authorities / institutions / organisations from these countries . the provisions of this regulation will apply to the use of those funds . ### in addition to the financial envelope as indicated in paragraph 1 , and in order to promote the international dimension of higher education , an indicative amount corresponding to 2 % of the total financial reference amounts included in the different instruments for external action , will be allocated to actions of learning mobility to or from countries other than those as referred to in article 18 and to cooperation and policy dialogue with authorities / institutions / organisations from these countries . the provisions of this regulation will apply to the use of those funds , while ensuring conformity with the legal basis for the external instruments from which the funding is derived .


### the action of the european youth forum , the national academic recognition centres , the eurydice , euroguidance and eurodesk networks , as well as of the etwinning national support services , the europass national centres , and the national information offices in the neighbourhood countries is essential in order to achieve the objectives of the programme , notably by providing the commission with regular and updated information regarding the various fields of their activity and through the dissemination of the programme results in the union and in the third participating countries . ### the action of the european youth forum , the national academic recognition centres , the eurydice , euroguidance and eurodesk networks , as well as of the etwinning national support services , the europass national centres , and the national information offices in the neighbourhood countries is essential in order to achieve the objectives of the programme , notably by providing the commission with regular and updated information regarding the various fields of their activity and through the dissemination of the programme results .


### to improve the level of key competences and skills regarding in particular their relevance for the labour market and society , as well as the participation of young people in democratic life in europe , notably through increased learning mobility opportunities for young people , learners , staff and youth workers , and through strengthened cooperation between education youth and the world of labour market ; ### to improve the level of key competences and skills regarding in particular their relevance for the labour market and society , enhance personal development , and promote the participation of young people in democratic life in europe , notably through increased learning mobility opportunities for young people , learners , staff and youth workers , and through strengthened cooperation between education , youth and the world of work ;


### the european youth forum , the national academic recognition centres , the eurydice , euroguidance and eurodesk networks , as well as the etwinning national support centres , the europass national centres , and the national information offices in the neighbourhood countries and acceding countries , candidate countries and potential candidates not fully participating in the programme . ### national academic recognition centres , the eurydice and euroguidance networks , as well as the etwinning national support centres , the europass national centres , and the national information offices in the neighbourhood countries and acceding countries , candidate countries and potential candidates not fully participating in the programme .


### the programme should include a strong international dimension particularly as regards higher education , not only to enhance the quality of european higher education in pursuit of the broader et2020 objectives and the attractiveness of the union as a study destination , but also to promote understanding between people and contribution to the sustainable development of higher education in the third countries . ### the programme should include a strong international dimension particularly as regards higher education , not only to enhance the quality of european higher education in pursuit of the broader et2020 objectives and the attractiveness of the union as a study destination , but also to promote understanding between people and contribute to poverty eradication and sustainable development , including in the area of higher education , in the third countries and in the overseas countries and territories associated with the union .


### it support platforms , including e - twinning , covering educational sectors and youth allowing peer learning , virtual mobility and exchanges of best practices and opening access for participants from neighbourhood countries . ### it support platforms , including in particular etwinning , covering all educational sectors and allowing peer learning , virtual mobility and exchanges of best practices and opening access for participants from neighbourhood countries .


### – ‘ erasmus training’ , associated with vocational education and training and adult learning ### – ‘ leonardo da vinci’ , associated with vocational education and training ;


### the programme covers education at all levels , in a lifelong learning perspective , in particular higher education , vocational education and training and adult learning , school education and youth . ### the programme shall cover the following fields : education and training at all levels , in a lifelong learning perspective , including school education , higher education , vocational education and training and adult learning ; youth , in particular in the context of non - formal and informal learning , active citizenship , social inclusion and volunteering ; sport , in particular grassroots sport .


### the objectives of cooperation in sport shall be pursued through the following transnational activities : ### the objectives of cooperation in the field of sport shall be pursued through the following transnational activities , which shall mainly focus on grassroots sport :


### ‘ eu transparency tools’ means instruments that help stakeholders to understand , appreciate and as appropriate recognise learning outcomes and qualifications throughout the union ; ### ‘ union transparency and recognition tools’ means instruments that help stakeholders to understand , appreciate and , as appropriate , recognise learning outcomes and qualifications throughout the union ;


### within three months of the entry into force of this regulation , the national authority shall designate a single coordinating body called hereafter ' national agency ' . the national authority shall provide the commission with an appropriate ex ante compliance assessment that the national agency complies with the provisions of article 55 and article 57 , and of the regulation no xx / 2012 , and article x of its delegated regulation noxx / 2012 , as well as with the union requirements for internal control standards for national agencies and rules for their management of programme funds for grant support . ### within three months of the entry into force of this regulation , the national authority shall designate a national agency or national agencies . in cases where there is more than one national agency , member states shall establish an appropriate mechanism for the coordinated management of the implementation of the programme at national level , particularly with a view to ensuring coherent and cost - efficient implementation of the programme and effective contact with the commission in this respect , and to facilitating the possible transfer of funds between agencies , thereby allowing for flexibility and better use of funds allocated to member states . each member state shall determine how it organises the relationship between the national authority and the national agency , including tasks such as the establishment of the national agency ' s annual work programme . the national authority shall provide the commission with an appropriate ex ante compliance assessment that the national agency complies with the provisions of article 55 and article 57 , and of the regulation no xx / 2012 , , and article x of its delegated regulation noxx / 2012 , as well as with the union requirements for internal control standards for national agencies and rules for their management of programme funds for grant support .


### improved transparency of qualifications and competences and extended acceptance of union tools should facilitate mobility throughout europe for lifelong learning purposes , therefore contributing to the development of quality education and training , and will facilitate mobility for occupational purposes , between countries as well as across sectors . opening up access for young students to methods , practices and technologies used in other countries will help to improve their employability in a global economy ; it can also help making jobs with an international profile more attractive . ### improved transparency of qualifications and competences and extended acceptance of union recognition tools should contribute to the development of quality education and training and facilitate mobility for both lifelong learning and occupational purposes throughout europe , between countries as well as across sectors . opening up access for young students to methods , practices and technologies used in other countries will improve their employability in a global economy ; it can also help making jobs with an international profile more attractive .


### to enhance the international dimension of education , training and youth notably in higher education by increasing the attractiveness of the union higher education institutions and supporting the union external action , including its development objectives through the promotion of mobility and cooperation between eu and third country higher education institutions and targeted capacity building in third countries . ### to enhance the international dimension of education and training , notably through cooperation between union and third country institutions in the field of vet and in higher education .


### ‘ support for policy reform’ means any type of activity aimed at supporting and facilitating the modernization of education and training systems through the process of policy cooperation between member states , in particular the open methods of coordination ; ### ‘ support for policy reform’ means any type of activity aimed at supporting and facilitating the modernisation of education and training systems , as well as support for the development of european youth policy , through the process of policy cooperation between member states , in particular the open method of coordination ;


### – ‘ erasmus higher education’ , associated with all types of higher education , in europe and internationally ### – ‘ erasmus’ , associated with all types of higher education , in europe and internationally ;


### ‘ non formal setting’ means a learning context that is often planned and organised , but not part of the formal education and training system . ### ' non - formal learning ' means learning that is often planned and organised but does not take place within the framework of formal education and training ;


### ‘ learning mobility’ means moving physically to a country other than the country of residence , in order to undertake study , training or other learning , including traineeships and non - formal learning , or teaching or participating in a transnational professional development activity . it may include preparatory training in the host language . learning mobility also covers youth exchanges and transnational professional development activities involving youth workers ; ### ‘ learning mobility’ means moving physically to a country other than the country of residence , in order to undertake study , training or other learning activities , including apprenticeships , traineeships and non - formal learning , assistantships or teaching , or to participate in a professional development activity . it may include preparatory training in the host language as well as follow - up activities . learning mobility shall also cover youth exchanges , volunteering , non - formal and informal learning and transnational professional development activities involving youth workers ;


### ‘ neighbourhood countries’ means the countries and territories listed in the annex to the regulation xx / 2012 of the european parliament and of the council of x yy 2012 establishing a european neighbourhood instrument : algeria , armenia , azerbaijan , belarus , egypt , georgia , israel , jordan , lebanon , libya , moldova , morocco , occupied palestinian territory , syria , tunisia and ukraine . in addition , as for the activities supported in the youth field , russia is also considered a neighbourhood country ; ### ‘ neighbourhood countries’ means the countries and territories listed in the annex to the regulation xx / 2012 of the european parliament and of the council of x yy 2012 establishing a european neighbourhood instrument : algeria , armenia , azerbaijan , belarus , egypt , georgia , israel , jordan , lebanon , libya , moldova , morocco , occupied palestinian territory , syria , tunisia and ukraine ;


### member states shall cooperate at union level with industry and civil society stakeholders , with facilitation by the commission , in order to review , for the purpose of the annual reporting referred to in article 7 , market and technological developments and progress in web - accessibility and to exchange best practices . ### member states shall cooperate at union level with industry , social partners and civil society stakeholders , with facilitation by the commission , in order to review , for the purpose of the annual reporting referred to in article 7 , market and technological developments and progress in web - accessibility and to exchange best practices . a particular attention shall be granted to the competitiveness of companies in the sector , especially of smes , so as no extra burdens are imposed on their functioning .


### the conformity with web - accessibility requirements should be continuously monitored from the initial construction of the public sector bodies ' website to all subsequent updates of its content . a harmonised monitoring methodology would cover a way of verifying , on a uniform basis in all members states , the degree of compliance of the website with the requirements for web - accessibility , the collection of representative samples and the periodicity of the monitoring . . member states should report annually on the outcome of the monitoring and more generally on the list of actions taken in application of this directive . ### the conformity with web - accessibility requirements should be continuously monitored from the initial construction of the website concerned to all subsequent updates of its content . a harmonised monitoring methodology would cover a way of verifying , on a uniform basis in all members states , the degree of compliance of the website with the requirements for web - accessibility , the collection of representative samples and the periodicity of the monitoring . member states should report regularly on the outcome of the monitoring and more generally on the list of actions taken in application of this directive .


### it lays down the rules according to which member states shall make accessible the content of websites belonging to public sector bodies , the types of which are specified in the annex . ### it lays down the rules according to which member states shall make accessible the content of websites belonging to public sector bodies , including those which provide services of general interest and those specified in the annex .


### member states shall cooperate at union level with industry and civil society stakeholders , with facilitation by the commission , in order to review , for the purpose of the annual reporting referred to in article 7 , market and technological developments and progress in web - accessibility and to exchange best practices . ### member states shall cooperate at union level with relevant industry and civil society stakeholders , including , in particular , representative organisations of persons with disabilities , with facilitation by the commission , in order to review , for the purpose of every two years reporting referred to in article 7a , market and technological developments and progress in web - accessibility and to exchange best practices .


### the conformity with web - accessibility requirements should be continuously monitored from the initial construction of the public sector bodies ' website to all subsequent updates of its content . a harmonised monitoring methodology would cover a way of verifying , on a uniform basis in all members states , the degree of compliance of the website with the requirements for web - accessibility , the collection of representative samples and the periodicity of the monitoring . . member states should report annually on the outcome of the monitoring and more generally on the list of actions taken in application of this directive . ### the conformity with web - accessibility requirements should be continuously monitored from the initial construction of the public sector bodies ' website to all subsequent updates of its content . a harmonised monitoring methodology would cover a way of verifying , on a uniform basis in all members states , the degree of compliance of the website with the requirements for web - accessibility , the collection of representative samples and the periodicity of the monitoring . member states should report every two years on the outcome of the monitoring and more generally on the list of actions taken in application of this directive .


### in a way which facilitates interoperability with a variety of user agents and assistive technologies at union and international level . ### in a way which ensures interoperability with a variety of user agents and assistive technologies at union and international level .


### member states shall promote that the websites concerned provide a statement on their accessibility , in particular on their compliance with this directive and with possibly additional accessibility information in support to users . ### member states shall ensure that the websites concerned provide a statement on their accessibility , in particular on their compliance with this directive and with possibly additional accessibility information in support to users . a draft model of information concerning accessibility is annexed to this directive .


### the commission establishes , by way of implementing acts , the methodology for the monitoring of the conformity of the websites concerned with the requirements for web - accessibility as set out in article 3 . those implementing acts shall be adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 9 . the methodology will be published in the official journal of the european union . ### the commission establishes , by way of implementing acts , the methodology for the monitoring of the conformity of the websites concerned with the requirements for web - accessibility as set out in article 3 . that methodology shall be transparent , transferable , comparable and reproducible and it shall be established in close consultation with relevant industry and civil society stakeholders , including , in particular , representative organisations of persons with disabilities . those implementing acts shall be adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 9 . the methodology will be published in the official journal of the european union no later than a year after the adoption of this directive .


### the approximation of national measures at union level , based on an agreement on accessibility requirements for public sector bodies ' websites , is necessary in order to put an end to fragmentation . it would reduce uncertainty for web - developers and would foster interoperability . by using accessibility requirements which are technology neutral , innovation will not be hampered and may possibly even be stimulated . ### the approximation of national measures at union level , based on an agreement on accessibility requirements for public sector bodies ' websites , is necessary in order to put an end to fragmentation . it would reduce uncertainty for web - developers and would foster interoperability . member states should encourage the use of adequate and interoperable accessibility requirements when tendering out website contents . technology neutral accessibility requirements will not hamper innovation and may possibly even stimulate them .


### this directive aims at approximating the laws , regulations and administrative provisions of the member states related to the accessibility of the content of public sector bodies ' websites to all users , in particular people with functional limitations , including persons with disabilities . ### this directive aims at approximating the laws , regulations and administrative provisions of the member states related to the accessibility of the content , including audiovisual content , of public sector bodies ' websites to all users , including persons with disabilities and elderly people .


### the fast growing web - accessibility market comprises a range of economic operators such as those developing websites or software tools to create , manage and test web pages , developing user agents such as web browsers and related assistive technologies , implementing certification services and training providers . ### the fast growing web - accessibility market comprises a range of economic operators such as those developing websites or software tools to create , manage and test web pages , developing user agents such as web browsers and related assistive technologies , implementing certification services and training providers . in this respect , of a great importance are the efforts made in the framework of the grand coalition for digital jobs , which is a follow - up to the employment package , and addresses ict specialists and aims to respond to the skills gaps , including literacy and working skills , in the ict sector .


### in a consistent and adequate way for users ' perception , operation and understanding , including adaptability of content presentation and interaction , when necessary , providing an accessible electronic alternative ; ### in a consistent and adequate way for users ' perception , operation and understanding , including persons with disabilities , and for elderly persons , as well as the adaptability of content presentation and interaction ;


### this directive aims at approximating the laws , regulations and administrative provisions of the member states related to the accessibility of the content of public sector bodies ' websites to all users , in particular people with functional limitations including persons with disabilities . ### this directive aims at approximating the laws , regulations and administrative provisions of the member states related to the accessibility of the content of public sector bodies ' websites to all users , in particular people with functional limitations including persons with disabilities , as well as for elderly persons .


### the commission establishes , by way of implementing acts , the methodology for the monitoring of the conformity of the websites concerned with the requirements for web - accessibility as set out in article 3 . those implementing acts shall be adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 9 . the methodology will be published in the official journal of the european union . ### the commission establishes , by way of implementing acts , the methodology for the monitoring of the conformity of the websites concerned with the requirements for web - accessibility as set out in article 3 . that methodology shall be transparent , transferable , comparable and reproducible and it shall be established in close consultation with relevant industry and civil society stakeholders , including , in particular , representative organisations of persons with disabilities . those implementing acts shall be adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 9 . the methodology will be published in the official journal of the european union .


### the commission shall carry out a review of the application of this directive within three years from its entry into force . ### the commission shall carry out a review of the application of this directive within two years from its entry into force and shall make the findings of this review public .


### citizens should benefit from wider access to online public sector services and should receive services and information which will facilitate the enjoyment of their rights across the union , notably their right to move and reside freely within the territory of the union and their freedom of establishment and to provide services . ### citizens should benefit from wider access to online public sector services and be able to access news and cultural and entertainment content enabling them to play a full part in social and working life , and should receive services and information which will facilitate their daily lives and the enjoyment of their rights across the union , notably their right to move and reside freely within the territory of the union , their right of access to information and their freedom of establishment and to provide services .


### ‘ content of websites’ means information to be communicated to the user by means of a user agent , including code or mark - up that defines the content ' s structure , presentation , and interactions . ### ‘ content of websites’ means information and user interface components to be communicated to the user by means of a user agent , including code or mark - up that defines the content ' s structure , presentation , and interactions . content of websites includes textual as well as non - textual information , the downloading of documents and forms as well as two - way interaction such as the processing of digital forms and the completion of authentication , identification and payment processes . content of websites also includes functions provided through websites , which are external to the website concerned , for instance , through the use of web - links , on the condition that the external website is the only means by which the information and service is provided to the user .


### the trend towards a digital society provides users with new ways of accessing information and services . the providers of information and services , such as public sector bodies , rely increasingly on the internet in order to produce , collect and provide a wide range of information and services online , which are essential to the public . ### the trend towards a digital society provides users with new ways of accessing information and services . the providers of information and services , such as public sector bodies , rely increasingly on the internet in order to produce , collect and provide a wide range of information and services online , which are essential to the public . in this respect , the security of transmission of information and the protection of personal data are of great importance .


### member states shall promote that the websites concerned provide a statement on their accessibility , in particular on their compliance with this directive and with possibly additional accessibility information in support to users . ### member states shall ensure that the websites concerned provide a statement on their accessibility , in particular on their compliance with this directive and with possibly additional accessibility information in support to users . that information shall be provided in accessible formats .


### ‘ user agent’ means any software that retrieves and presents web contents for users , including web browsers , media players , plug - ins , and other programs that help in retrieving , rendering , and interacting with web content . ### ‘ user agent’ means any software that retrieves and presents website contents for users , including web browsers , media players , plug - ins , and other programs that help in retrieving , rendering , and interacting with website content , regardless of the device used to interact with content . if a mobile application offers the same or an enhanced set of services as the website concerned , this definition shall also apply to the interface and operation of such mobile applications .


### member states shall cooperate at union level with industry and civil society stakeholders , with facilitation by the commission , in order to review , for the purpose of the annual reporting referred to in article 7 , market and technological developments and progress in web - accessibility and to exchange best practices . ### member states shall cooperate at union level with industry and civil society stakeholders , with facilitation by the commission , in order to review , for the purpose of the regular reporting referred to in article 7a , market and technological developments and progress in web - accessibility and to exchange best practices .


### member states shall cooperate at union level with industry and civil society stakeholders , with facilitation by the commission , in order to review , for the purpose of the annual reporting referred to in article 7 , market and technological developments and progress in web - accessibility and to exchange best practices . ### member states shall cooperate at union level with relevant industry and civil society stakeholders , including , in particular , representative organisations of persons with disabilities , with facilitation by the commission , in order to review , for the purpose of every two years reporting referred to in article 7a , market and technological developments and progress in web - accessibility and to exchange best practices .


### member states shall cooperate at union level with industry and civil society stakeholders , with facilitation by the commission , in order to review , for the purpose of the annual reporting referred to in article 7 , market and technological developments and progress in web - accessibility and to exchange best practices . ### member states shall cooperate at union level with industry , social partners and civil society stakeholders , with facilitation by the commission , in order to review , for the purpose of the annual reporting referred to in article 7 , market and technological developments and progress in web - accessibility and to exchange best practices . a particular attention should be granted to the competitiveness of companies in the sector , especially of smes , so as no extra burdens are imposed on their functioning .


### member states may extend the application of this directive to other types of public sector websites than those referred to in paragraph 2 . ### member states should extend the application of this directive to other types of websites .


### during the programming period , the managing authority may carry out evaluations for assessing the effectiveness and efficiency of the operational programme . ### during the programming period , the competent authority may carry out evaluations for assessing the effectiveness and efficiency of the operational programme .


### ' beneficiary ' means a public or private body responsible for initiating or initiating and implementing operations ; ### ‘ beneficiary’ means a not - for - profit organisation or a public or private body , excluding commercial enterprises , responsible for initiating or initiating and implementing operations ;


### the global resources available for budgetary commitment from the fund for the period 2014 - 2020 shall be eur 2 500 000 000 at 2011 prices , in accordance with the annual breakdown set out in annex ii . ### the global resources available for budgetary commitment from the fund for the period 2014 - 2020 shall be eur 3&#160 ; 500&#160 ; 000&#160 ; 000 at 2011 prices , in accordance with the annual breakdown set out in annex ii .


### an identification of and a justification for selecting the type of material deprivation to be addressed under the operational programme and a description for each type of material deprivation addressed of the main characteristics and the objectives of the distribution of food or goods and the accompanying measures to be provided , having regard to the results of the ex ante evaluation carried out in accordance with article 14 ; ### an identification of the type of material deprivation to be addressed under the operational programme and a description for each type of material deprivation addressed of the main characteristics and the objectives of the distribution of food or goods and any accompanying measures to be provided ;


### this regulation establishes the fund for european aid to the most deprived for the period from 1 january 2014 to 31 december 2020 and determines the objectives of the fund , the scope of its support , the financial resources available and the criteria for their allocation and lays down the rules necessary to ensure the effectiveness of the fund . ### this regulation establishes the fund for european aid to the most deprived for the period from 1&#160 ; january 2014 to 31&#160 ; december 2020 and determines the objectives of the fund , the scope of its support , the financial resources available and the criteria for their allocation and lays down the rules necessary to ensure the efficiency and straightforwardness of the fund .


### member states and beneficiaries shall choose the food products and the goods on the basis of objective criteria . the selection criteria for the food products , and where appropriate for goods , shall also take into consideration climatic and environmental aspects , in particular with a view to reduction of food waste . ### member states and beneficiaries shall choose the food products on the basis of objective criteria . the selection criteria for the food products shall also take into consideration the healthiness of the food and climatic and environmental aspects , in particular with a view to reduction of food waste .


### in processing personal data pursuant to this article , the managing authority as well as the beneficiaries and partner organisations shall comply with directive 95 / 46 / ec . ### in processing personal data pursuant to this article , the competent authority as well as the beneficiaries and partner organisations shall abide by all confidential data protection rules and comply with directive 95 / 46 / ec .


### this regulation establishes the fund for european aid to the most deprived for the period from 1 january 2014 to 31 december 2020 and determines the objectives of the fund , the scope of its support , the financial resources available and the criteria for their allocation and lays down the rules necessary to ensure the effectiveness of the fund . ### this regulation establishes the fund for european food assistance to the most deprived for the period from 1 january 2014 to 31 december 2020 and determines the objectives of the fund , the scope of its support , the financial resources available and the criteria for their allocation and lays down the rules necessary to ensure the effectiveness of the fund . by 2020 , national bodies should prepare to take responsibility for food assistance if there is a need for it to continue .


### the fund shall promote social cohesion in the union by contributing to achieving the poverty reduction target of at least 20 million of the number of persons at risk of poverty and social exclusion in accordance with the europe 2020 strategy . the fund shall contribute to achieving the specific objective of alleviating the worst forms of poverty in the union by providing non - financial assistance to the most deprived persons . this objective shall be measured by the number of persons receiving assistance from the fund . ### the fund shall promote social cohesion in the union by contributing to achieving the poverty reduction target of at least 20 million of the number of persons at risk of poverty and social exclusion in accordance with the europe 2020 strategy . the fund shall contribute to achieving the specific objective of alleviating the worst forms of poverty in the union by providing non - financial assistance to the most deprived persons . this objective shall be measured by the number of persons receiving assistance from the fund . the fund shall seek to ensure that nobody in the union goes hungry .


### the costs of purchasing food and basic consumer goods for personal use of homeless persons or of children ; ### the costs of purchasing food and basic consumer goods for the personal use of the most deprived persons , and in particular homeless persons or children ;


### the costs of purchasing food and basic consumer goods for personal use of homeless persons or of children ; ### the costs of purchasing food and basic consumer goods for the personal use of the most deprived persons ;


### member states and beneficiaries shall choose the food products and the goods on the basis of objective criteria . the selection criteria for the food products , and where appropriate for goods , shall also take into consideration climatic and environmental aspects , in particular with a view to reduction of food waste . ### member states and beneficiaries shall choose the food products and the goods on the basis of objective quality criteria . the selection criteria for the food products shall favour local products . the organisations or associations responsible for distributing the food shall , wherever possible , aim to provide a healthy and balanced diet for the end recipients and pursue public health and food security objectives . the selection criteria for the food products , and where appropriate for goods , shall also take into consideration climatic and environmental aspects , in particular with a view to reduction of food waste at every stage of the distribution chain .


### the costs of purchasing food and basic consumer goods for personal use of homeless persons or of children ; ### the costs of purchasing food and basic consumer goods for the personal use of the final beneficiaries ;


### this regulation establishes the fund for european aid to the most deprived for the period from 1 january 2014 to 31 december 2020 and determines the objectives of the fund , the scope of its support , the financial resources available and the criteria for their allocation and lays down the rules necessary to ensure the effectiveness of the fund . ### this regulation establishes the fund for european aid to the most deprived for the period from 1 january 2014 to 31 december 2020 and determines the objectives of the fund , the scope of its support , the financial resources available and the criteria for their allocation and lays down the rules necessary to ensure that the fund is effective and easy to implement .


### an identification of and a justification for selecting the type of material deprivation to be addressed under the operational programme and a description for each type of material deprivation addressed of the main characteristics and the objectives of the distribution of food or goods and the accompanying measures to be provided , having regard to the results of the ex ante evaluation carried out in accordance with article 14 ; ### an identification of and a justification for selecting the type of material deprivation to be addressed under the operational programme and a description for each type of material deprivation addressed of the main characteristics and the objectives of the distribution of food and the accompanying measures to be provided , having regard to the results of the ex ante evaluation carried out in accordance with article 14 ;


### the operational programme of each member state should identify and justify the forms of material deprivation to be addressed , and describe the objectives and features of the assistance to the most deprived persons that will be provided through the support of national schemes . it should also include elements necessary to ensure effective and efficient implementation of the operational programme . ### the operational programme of each member state should identify and justify the forms of material deprivation to be addressed , with food deprivation being given priority , and describe the objectives and features of the assistance to the most deprived persons that will be provided through the support of national schemes . it should also include elements necessary to ensure effective and efficient implementation of the operational programme .


### the co - financing rate at the level of the operational programme shall not be higher than 85% of the public eligible expenditure . ### the co - financing rate at the level of the operational programme amounts to 85% of the public eligible expenditure .


### an identification of and a justification for selecting the type of material deprivation to be addressed under the operational programme and a description for each type of material deprivation addressed of the main characteristics and the objectives of the distribution of food or goods and the accompanying measures to be provided , having regard to the results of the ex ante evaluation carried out in accordance with article 14 ; ### an identification of and a justification for selecting the type of material deprivation to be addressed under the operational programme and a description for each type of material deprivation addressed of the main characteristics and the objectives of the distribution of food or goods and the accompanying measures for the abolition of social exclusion to be provided , having regard to the results of the ex ante evaluation carried out in accordance with article 14 ;


### support from the fund shall be implemented in close cooperation between the commission and the member states . ### support from the fund shall be provided in close cooperation between the commission and the member states , as well as the competent regional and local authorities and bodies representing civil society and partner organisations .


### those provisions also ensure that the operations supported shall comply with applicable union and national laws , notably in regard to the safety of the goods that are distributed to the most deprived persons . ### those provisions also ensure that the operations supported shall comply with applicable union and national laws , notably in regard to the safety of the goods and the quality of the food products that are distributed to the most deprived persons .


### the operational programme of each member state should identify and justify the forms of material deprivation to be addressed , and describe the objectives and features of the assistance to the most deprived persons that will be provided through the support of national schemes . it should also include elements necessary to ensure effective and efficient implementation of the operational programme . ### the operational programme of each member state should identify and justify the forms of material deprivation to be addressed , and describe the objectives and features of the assistance to the most deprived persons that will be provided through the support of national schemes . the first deprivation to be addressed by the member states should be that concerning access to food . the programme should also include elements necessary to ensure its effective and efficient implementation .


### the partner organisations referred to in point that deliver directly the food or goods shall themselves undertake activities complementing the provision of material assistance , aiming at the social inclusion of the most deprived persons , whether or not these activities are supported by the fund . ### the partner organisations referred to in point that deliver directly the food and / or goods may themselves undertake activities complementing the provision of material assistance , aiming at the social inclusion of the most deprived persons , whether or not these activities are supported by the fund .


### the fund shall support national schemes whereby food products and basic consumer goods for the personal use of homeless persons or of children are distributed to the most deprived persons through partner organisations selected by member states . ### the fund shall support national schemes whereby food products and basic consumer goods for the personal use of deprived persons , such as homeless persons , children or elderly persons are distributed through partner organisations selected by member states .


### member states and beneficiaries shall choose the food products and the goods on the basis of objective criteria . the selection criteria for the food products , and where appropriate for goods , shall also take into consideration climatic and environmental aspects , in particular with a view to reduction of food waste . ### member states and beneficiaries shall choose the food products on the basis of objective criteria . the selection criteria for the food products shall also take into consideration climatic and environmental aspects , in particular with a view to reduction of food waste .


### the costs of purchasing food and basic consumer goods for personal use of homeless persons or of children ; ### the costs of purchasing food ;


### the commission and each member state shall meet every year from 2014 to 2022 , unless otherwise agreed , to examine the progress in implementing the operational programme , taking account of the annual implementation report and the commission ' s observations referred to in article 11 , where applicable . ### the commission and each member state , as well as the competent regional authorities , bodies representing civil society and partner organisations , shall meet every year from 2014 to 2022 , unless otherwise agreed , to examine the progress in implementing the operational programme , taking account of the annual implementation report and the commission ' s observations referred to in article 11 , where applicable .


### ' intermediate body ' means any public or private body which acts under the responsibility of a managing or certifying authority , or which carries out duties on behalf of such an authority in relation to beneficiaries ' implementing operations ; ### ‘ intermediate body’ means any not - for - profit organisation or any public or private body , excluding commercial enterprises , which acts under the responsibility of a managing or certifying authority , or which carries out duties on behalf of such an authority in relation to beneficiaries’ implementing operations ;


### union budget commitments should be effected annually . in order to ensure effective programme management , it is necessary to lay down common rules for interim payment requests , the payment of the annual balance and the final balance . ### union budget commitments should be effected annually . in order to ensure effective programme management , it is necessary to lay down simple common rules for interim payment requests , the payment of the annual balance and the final balance .


### an identification of and a justification for selecting the type of material deprivation to be addressed under the operational programme and a description for each type of material deprivation addressed of the main characteristics and the objectives of the distribution of food or goods and the accompanying measures to be provided , having regard to the results of the ex ante evaluation carried out in accordance with article 14 ; ### an identification of the type of food and / or material deprivation to be addressed under the operational programme and a description of the main characteristics and the objectives of the distribution of good - quality , healthy food or goods and the accompanying measures to be provided


### member states shall provide the resources necessary for carrying out evaluations , and shall ensure that procedures are in place to produce and collect the data necessary for evaluations , including data related to the common indicators referred to in article 11 . ### member states shall provide the resources necessary for carrying out evaluations , and shall ensure that procedures are in place to produce and collect the data necessary for evaluations .


### member states and beneficiaries shall choose the food products and the goods on the basis of objective criteria . the selection criteria for the food products , and where appropriate for goods , shall also take into consideration climatic and environmental aspects , in particular with a view to reduction of food waste . ### member states and beneficiaries shall choose the food products on the basis of objective criteria . the selection criteria for the food products shall also take into consideration the healthiness of the food and climatic and environmental aspects , in particular with a view to reduction of food waste .


### the fund for european aid to the most deprived should strengthen social cohesion by contributing to the reduction of poverty in the union by supporting national schemes that provide non - financial assistance to the most deprived persons to alleviate food deprivation , homelessness and material deprivation of children . ### the fund for european aid to the most deprived should strengthen social cohesion by contributing to the reduction of poverty in the union by supporting national schemes to alleviate food deprivation , cut food wastage and thus reduce adverse impacts on the climate .


### each member state shall submit to the commission one operational programme covering the period between 1 january 2014 and 31 december 2020 within three months of the entry into force of this regulation , containing the following items : ### each member state shall submit to the commission one operational programme covering the period between 1 january 2014 and 31 december 2020 within four months of the entry into force of this regulation , containing the following items :


### in processing personal data pursuant to this article , the managing authority as well as the beneficiaries and partner organisations shall comply with directive 95 / 46 / ec . ### in processing personal data pursuant to this article , the competent authority as well as the beneficiaries and partner organisations shall abide by all confidential data protection rules and comply with directive 95 / 46 / ec .


### the fund for european aid to the most deprived should strengthen social cohesion by contributing to the reduction of poverty in the union by supporting national schemes that provide non - financial assistance to the most deprived persons to alleviate food deprivation , homelessness and material deprivation of children . ### the fund for european aid to the most deprived should strengthen social cohesion by contributing to the reduction of poverty in the union by supporting , primarily through the provision of food supplies , national schemes that provide non - financial assistance to the most deprived persons to alleviate food and material deprivation , particularly among the homeless and children .


### the fund may support accompanying measures , complementing the provision of food and goods , contributing to the social inclusion of the most deprived persons . ### the fund may support accompanying measures , primarily complementing the provision of food and goods , contributing to the social inclusion of the most deprived persons , it should also encourage collaboration with organisations which focus on the eradication of poverty and long - term social reintegration .


### support from the fund shall be implemented in close cooperation between the commission and the member states . ### support from the fund shall be implemented by the member states in close cooperation with the commission .


### ' beneficiary ' means a public or private body responsible for initiating or initiating and implementing operations ; ### ‘ beneficiary’ means a not - for - profit organisation or a public or private body , excluding commercial enterprises , responsible for initiating or initiating and implementing operations ;


### the technical assistance measures implemented at the initiative of , or on behalf of , the commission may be financed at the rate of 100% . ### the technical assistance measures implemented at the initiative of , or on behalf of , the commission may be financed at the rate of 85% .


### uniform and equitable rules on the eligibility period , operations and expenditures for the fund should be applied across the union . the conditions of eligibility should reflect the specific nature of the fund’s objectives and target populations , notably through adequate conditions of eligibility of the operations as well as forms of support and rules and conditions of reimbursement . ### uniform , equitable and simple rules on the eligibility period , operations and expenditures for the fund should be applied across the union . the conditions of eligibility should reflect the specific nature of the fund’s objectives and target populations , notably through simple and adequate conditions of eligibility of the operations as well as forms of support and rules and conditions of reimbursement .


### operations financed by the fund shall comply with applicable union and national law . in particular , the fund may only be used to support distribution of food or goods that are in conformity with the union legislation on consumer product safety . ### operations financed by the fund shall comply with applicable union and national law . in particular , the fund may only be used to support distribution of food that is in conformity with the union legislation on consumer product safety .


### the commission and the member states shall ensure that equality between men and women and the integration of the gender perspective are promoted during the various stages of the implementation of the fund . the commission and the member states shall take appropriate steps to prevent any discrimination based on sex , racial or ethnic origin , religion or belief , disability , age or sexual orientation in obtaining access to the fund . ### the commission and the member states undertake to promote equality between men and women and the integration of the gender perspective during the various stages of the implementation of the fund . the commission and the member states shall take appropriate steps to prevent any discrimination based on sex , racial or ethnic origin , religion or belief , disability , age or sexual orientation in obtaining access to the fund .


### in order to improve the quality and design of each operational programme and evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of the fund , ex ante and ex post evaluations should be conducted . those evaluations should be supplemented by surveys on the most deprived persons who have benefited from the operational programme and , if necessary , by evaluations during the programming period . the responsibilities of member states and the commission in this respect should be specified . ### in order to improve the quality and design of each operational programme and evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of the fund , evaluations should be conducted .


### the operational programme of each member state should identify and justify the forms of material deprivation to be addressed , and describe the objectives and features of the assistance to the most deprived persons that will be provided through the support of national schemes . it should also include elements necessary to ensure effective and efficient implementation of the operational programme . ### the operational programme of each member state should identify and justify the forms of material deprivation to be addressed , and describe the objectives and features of the assistance to the most deprived persons that will be provided through the support of national schemes . the first deprivation to be addressed by the member states should be that concerning access to food . the programme should also include elements necessary to ensure its effective and efficient implementation .


### the commission may address observations to a member state concerning the implementation of the operational programme . the managing authority shall within three months inform the commission of the corrective measures taken . ### the commission may address observations to a member state concerning the implementation of the operational programme .


### this regulation establishes the fund for european aid to the most deprived for the period from 1 january 2014 to 31 december 2020 and determines the objectives of the fund , the scope of its support , the financial resources available and the criteria for their allocation and lays down the rules necessary to ensure the effectiveness of the fund . ### this regulation establishes the fund for european food assistance to the most deprived for the period from 1 january 2014 to 31 december 2020 and determines the objectives of the fund , the scope of its support , the financial resources available and the criteria for their allocation and lays down the rules necessary to ensure the effectiveness of the fund . by 2020 , national bodies should prepare to take responsibility for food assistance if there is a need for it to continue .


### the fund may support accompanying measures , complementing the provision of food and goods , contributing to the social inclusion of the most deprived persons . ### the fund may support accompanying measures , complementing the provision of food , contributing to the social inclusion of deprived persons .


### the commission should , on its own initiative or on request from the member state which has negotiated the intergovernmental agreement , have the right to assess the compatibility of the negotiated agreement with union law before the agreement has been signed . ### the commission should assess the compatibility of the negotiated agreement with union law and with the eu ' s long - term energy and climate objectives before the agreement has been signed , and to issue an opinion regarding needs for re - negotiation resulting from requirements of eu law , which the concerned member state should duly take into account .


### the commission should , on its own initiative or on request from the member state which has negotiated the intergovernmental agreement , have the right to assess the compatibility of the negotiated agreement with union law before the agreement has been signed . ### the commission should assess the compatibility of the negotiated agreement with union law before the agreement has been signed and submit an opinion as to whether any renegotiation of the agreement is required on the basis of provisions under union law to which the member states concerned should have due regard .


### the objectives of the copernicus programme are to provide accurate and reliable information in the field of the environment and security , tailored to the needs of users and supporting other union’s policies , in particular relating to the internal market , transport , environment , energy , civil protection , cooperation with third countries and humanitarian aid . it builds on capabilities existing in europe , complemented by new assets developed in common . ### the objectives of the copernicus programme are to provide accurate and reliable information in the field of the environment , climate change , civil protection and security , tailored to the needs of users and supporting other union’s policies , in particular relating to the internal market , transport , environment , climate , energy , civil protection , cooperation with third countries and humanitarian aid . it builds on capabilities existing in europe , complemented by new assets developed in common .


### the commission is implementing the european disability action plan that contains relevant actions for older persons given the correlation between disability and ageing . in particular actions on accessibility following design for all approaches would be relevant . furthermore the eu and all member states have signed the un convention on the rights of persons with disabilities that contains relevant provisions for older persons . ### the commission is implementing the european disability action plan that contains relevant actions for older persons given the correlation between disability and ageing . in particular actions on accessibility following design for all approaches would be relevant . furthermore the eu and all member states have signed the un convention on the rights of persons with disabilities that contains inter alia relevant provisions for older persons .


### the overall purpose of the european year shall be to encourage and support the efforts of member states , their regional and local authorities , social partners and civil society to promote active ageing and to do more to mobilise the potential of the rapidly growing population in their late 50s and above , thereby preserving solidarity between generations . active ageing means creating better opportunities and working conditions to enable older workers to play their part in the labour market , combating social exclusion by fostering active participation in society , and encouraging healthy ageing . on this basis , the objectives shall be : ### the overall purpose of the european year shall be to facilitate the creation of a sustainable active ageing culture in europe based on a society for all ages and on solidarity between generations . in this framework , the european year shall encourage and support the efforts of member states , their regional and local authorities , social partners , and civil society , including churches and associations active in combating poverty and social exclusion , to promote active ageing and to do more to mobilise the potential of the rapidly growing population in their late 50s and above , thereby maintaining the vitality of older people , enhancing their social participation , creating a society for all ages and fostering solidarity and cooperation between generations . active ageing means creating better opportunities and working conditions to enable older workers to play their part in the labour market , combating social exclusion , by supporting the role of older people in family life and voluntary activities and their active participation in society , and encouraging healthy ageing . on this basis , the objectives shall be :


### each member state shall appoint a national coordinator responsible for organising its involvement in the european year . the national coordinators should also see to it that national activities are properly coordinated . ### each member state shall appoint a national coordinator responsible for organising its involvement in the european year . the national coordinators should also see to it that national activities are properly coordinated and that civil society organisations are fully involved in the design and implementation of the european year at local , regional and national level .


### active ageing is targeted by several union programmes , such as the european social fund , the european regional and development fund , the progress programme , the life long learning programme , the public health programme , the specific programmes on information and communication technologies and on socio - economic sciences and humanities in the seventh framework programme for research and development , the action plan on ‘ ageing well in the information society’ , the ambient assisted living joint programme for research and innovation , the competitiveness and innovation programme with pilot deployment projects on ict for ageing well and the action plan on urban mobility . union co - financing of european year activities will be in accordance with the priorities and rules applying , on an annual or multi - annual basis , to existing programmes and autonomous budget lines in the field of employment , social affairs and equal opportunities . where appropriate , programmes and policies in other fields , such as education and culture , health , research , the information society , regional policy and transport policy , may support the european year . ### active ageing is also targeted by several union programmes , such as the european social fund , the european regional and development fund , the progress programme , the life long learning programme , the public health programme , the specific programmes on information and communication technologies and on socio - economic sciences and humanities in the seventh framework programme for research and development , the action plan on ‘ ageing well in the information society’ , the ambient assisted living joint programme for research and innovation , the competitiveness and innovation programme with pilot deployment projects on ict for ageing well and the action plan on urban mobility . it is therefore possible for the european year to be implemented , to a large extent , by using these programmes , within the existing margins which they provide for funding priorities on an annual or multiannual basis .


### to offer a framework for commitment and concrete action to enable member states and stakeholders at all levels to develop policies through specific activities and to commit to specific objectives related to active ageing . ### to offer a framework for commitment and concrete action to enable member states and stakeholders at all levels , with the strong involvement of civil society and churches , to develop policies through specific activities and to commit to specific objectives related to active ageing .


### successive european councils have recognised the need to tackle the effect of ageing populations on european social models . a key response to this rapid change in the age structure consists in promoting active ageing and thus ensuring that the baby boom cohorts , who are , on the whole , healthier and better educated than any such cohort before them , have good opportunities for employment and active participation in society . ### successive european councils have recognised the need to tackle the effect of ageing populations on european social models . a key response to this rapid change in the age structure consists in promoting the creation of a sustainable culture of lifelong active ageing and thus ensuring that the rapidly - growing population currently in their late 50s and above , who are , on the whole , healthier and better educated than any such age group before them , have good opportunities for employment and active participation in family life and society .


### to stimulate debate and develop mutual learning between member states and stakeholders at all levels in order to promote active ageing policies , to identify and disseminate good practice and to encourage cooperation and synergies ; ### to stimulate debate , encourage support and develop mutual learning between public and private actors , at national , regional and local level , and civil society , in order to promote active ageing policies more effectively and successfully , to identify and disseminate good practices and to encourage cooperation and synergies ;


### the overall purpose of the european year shall be to encourage and support the efforts of member states , their regional and local authorities , social partners and civil society to promote active ageing and to do more to mobilise the potential of the rapidly growing population in their late 50s and above , thereby preserving solidarity between generations . active ageing means creating better opportunities and working conditions to enable older workers to play their part in the labour market , combating social exclusion by fostering active participation in society , and encouraging healthy ageing . on this basis , the objectives shall be : ### the overall purpose of the european year shall be to encourage and support the efforts of member states , their regional and local authorities , social partners and civil society to promote active ageing and to do more , by concrete measures , to mobilise the potential of the rapidly growing population in their late 50s and above and to bring about its better inclusion in society , in view of the economic , social and cultural role they can play in preserving solidarity between generations . in order to do so , it is essential for the european year to support and leverage local and regional projects and initiatives that take account of the specific needs of older people and that allow the members of an ageing society to contribute as much as possible to their community and to let the older people in that ageing society benefit from adequate protection , security , the proper adaptation of their living environment and access to public services and quality care . moreover , it is the task of member states and their cities and regions to provide for a framework within which stakeholders from the public and private sector can cooperate well together on achieving these common goals . active ageing means creating better opportunities and working conditions to enable older workers to play their part in the labour market and volunteering activities , combating social exclusion by fostering active participation in society , and encouraging healthy ageing . on this basis , the objectives shall be :


### the growing proportion of older people in europe makes it more important than ever to promote healthy ageing . healthy ageing can help raise labour market participation of older people , enable them to be active in society for longer , improve their individual quality of life and curb the strains on health and social care systems . ### the growing proportion of older people in europe makes it more important than ever to promote healthy ageing for all and , in particular , for older persons , supporting their vitality and dignity . healthy ageing can help raise labour market participation of older people , enable them to be active in society for longer , improve their individual quality of life by a higher level of services and a barrier - free environment and curb the strains on health and social care systems .


### to offer a framework for commitment and concrete action to enable member states and stakeholders at all levels to develop policies through specific activities and to commit to specific objectives related to active ageing . ### to offer a framework for commitment and concrete action to enable member states and stakeholders at all levels to develop policies through specific activities and to commit to specific objectives related to active ageing , with particular emphasis on promoting information strategies and encouraging the correct implementation of health and safety at work guidelines , this being of key importance for an active ageing policy .


### - information , promotion and educational campaigns ; ### - information , promotion and educational campaigns making use of multimedia ;


### to stimulate debate and develop mutual learning between member states and stakeholders at all levels in order to promote active ageing policies , to identify and disseminate good practice and to encourage cooperation and synergies ; ### to stimulate debate and develop mutual learning between member states and stakeholders at all levels in order to promote active ageing policies , to support sustainable and secure pension schemes in europe , to identify and disseminate good practice , and to encourage cooperation and synergies ;


### to offer a framework for commitment and concrete action to enable member states and stakeholders at all levels to develop policies through specific activities and to commit to specific objectives related to active ageing . ### to offer a framework for commitment and concrete action , such as fostering an environment that is beneficial to innovation in technologies in the ict field that respond to the challenge of an ageing society , which enables public and private actors , at national , regional and local level , and civil society , to develop policies through specific activities and to commit to specific objectives related to active ageing by developing long - term strategies .


### – exchange of information , experience and good practices ; ### – exchange of information , experience and good practices through national coordinators and networks of contacts set up by stakeholders working to achieve the goals of the european year ;


### to raise general awareness of the value of active ageing in order to highlight the useful contribution older persons make to society and the economy , to promote active ageing and to do more to mobilise the potential of older persons ; ### to raise general awareness of the value of active ageing in order to highlight the useful contribution older persons make to family life , society and the economy , to promote active ageing , maintaining the vitality and respecting the dignity of all people to promote solidarity between generations and to do more to mobilise the potential of older persons ;


### the commission proposed in its proposal for a council decision on ' guidelines for the employment policies of the member states ' of 27 april 2010 , which calls under the guidelines 7 and 8 on member states to increase labour force participation through policies to promote active ageing , to raise employment rates of older workers through innovation in work organisation and to increase the employability of older workers through up - skilling and participation in lifelong learning schemes . guideline 10 emphasises the need to enhance social protection systems , lifelong learning and active inclusion policies with the aim to create opportunities at different stages of people ' s lives and shield them from the risk of social exclusion . ### the commission proposed in its proposal for a council decision on ' guidelines for the employment policies of the member states ' of 27 april 2010 , which calls under the guidelines 7 and 8 on member states to increase labour force participation through policies to promote active ageing , to raise employment rates of older workers through innovation in work organisation and to increase the employability of older workers through up - skilling and participation in lifelong learning schemes . guideline 10 emphasises the need to enhance social protection systems , lifelong learning and active inclusion policies with the aim of creating opportunities at different stages of people ' s lives , of shielding them from the risk of social exclusion and of enhancing their active participation in society .


### - conferences , events and initiatives to promote debate , raise awareness and foster the making of specific commitments ; ### - conferences , events and initiatives , with the strong involvement of civil society , to promote debate , raise awareness and foster the making of specific commitments contributing to sustained and lasting impacts ;


### the growing proportion of older people in europe makes it more important than ever to promote healthy ageing . healthy ageing can help raise labour market participation of older people , enable them to be active in society for longer , improve their individual quality of life and curb the strains on health and social care systems . ### the growing proportion of older people in europe makes it more important than ever to promote healthy ageing for all and , in particular , for older persons , supporting their vitality and dignity . healthy ageing is the process of optimising opportunities for physical , social and mental health to enable older people to take an active part in society without discrimination and to enjoy an independent life of good quality . healthy ageing can also help raise labour market participation of older people , enable them to be active in society for longer , improve their individual quality of life and curb the strains on health and social care systems .


### active ageing is targeted by several union programmes , such as the european social fund , the european regional and development fund , the progress programme , the life long learning programme , the public health programme , the specific programmes on information and communication technologies and on socio - economic sciences and humanities in the seventh framework programme for research and development , the action plan on ‘ ageing well in the information society’ , the ambient assisted living joint programme for research and innovation , the competitiveness and innovation programme with pilot deployment projects on ict for ageing well and the action plan on urban mobility . union co - financing of european year activities will be in accordance with the priorities and rules applying , on an annual or multi - annual basis , to existing programmes and autonomous budget lines in the field of employment , social affairs and equal opportunities . where appropriate , programmes and policies in other fields , such as education and culture , health , research , the information society , regional policy and transport policy , may support the european year . ### active ageing is targeted by several union programmes , such as the european social fund , the european regional and development fund , the progress programme , the life long learning programme and in particular the grundtvig programme , the public health programme , the specific programmes on information and communication technologies and on socio - economic sciences and humanities in the seventh framework programme for research and development , the action plan on ‘ ageing well in the information society’ , the ambient assisted living joint programme for research and innovation , the competitiveness and innovation programme with pilot deployment projects on ict for ageing well , the calypso preparatory action on social tourism and the action plan on urban mobility . union co - financing of european year activities will be in accordance with the priorities and rules applying , on an annual or multi - annual basis , to existing programmes and autonomous budget lines in the field of employment , social affairs and equal opportunities . where appropriate , programmes and policies in other fields , such as education and culture , health , research , the information society , regional policy and transport policy , may support the european year .


### successive european councils have recognised the need to tackle the effect of ageing populations on european social models . a key response to this rapid change in the age structure consists in promoting active ageing and thus ensuring that the baby boom cohorts , who are , on the whole , healthier and better educated than any such cohort before them , have good opportunities for employment and active participation in society . ### successive european councils have recognised the need to tackle the effect of ageing populations on european social models . one response to this rapid change in the age structure consists in promoting active ageing and thus ensuring that the baby boom cohorts , who are , on the whole , healthier and better educated than any such cohort before them , have good opportunities for employment and active participation in society . another response is to promote solidarity between generations .


### to raise general awareness of the value of active ageing in order to highlight the useful contribution older persons make to society and the economy , to promote active ageing and to do more to mobilise the potential of older persons ; ### to raise general awareness at all administrative levels in member states , cities and regions of the value of active ageing in order to highlight the useful contributions older persons make to society and the economy by passing on and strengthening their knowledge and skills , to promote active ageing , to do more to mobilise the potential of older persons , to put active ageing and the promotion of solidarity between generations high up on the political agenda of stakeholders at national , regional and local level ;


### the growing proportion of older people in europe makes it more important than ever to promote healthy ageing . healthy ageing can help raise labour market participation of older people , enable them to be active in society for longer , improve their individual quality of life and curb the strains on health and social care systems . ### the growing proportion of older people in europe makes it more important than ever to promote the healthy ageing of all , in particular older , persons , supporting their vitality and dignity . healthy ageing can help raise labour market participation of older people , enable them to be active in society for longer , improve their individual quality of life and curb the strains on health and social care systems .


### at least 90% of the activities of that legal person are carried out for the controlling contracting authority or entity or for other legal persons controlled by that contracting authority or entity ### the essential part of the activities of that legal person are carried out for the controlling contracting authority or entity or for other legal persons controlled by that contracting authority or entity ;


### at least 90% of the activities of that legal person are carried out for the controlling contracting authorities or entities as referred to in paragraph 1 subparagraph 1 of article 4 or other legal persons controlled by the same contracting authority or entity ; ### the essential part of the activities of that legal person are carried out for the controlling contracting authorities or entities as referred to in paragraph 1 subparagraph 1 of article 4 or other legal persons controlled by the same contracting authority or entity ;


### when a retail investor demonstrates a loss resulting from the use of the information contained in the key information document , the investment product manufacturer has to prove that the key information document has been drawn up in compliance with articles 6 , 7 and 8 of this regulation . ### the information in the key information document shall constitute pre - contractual information . it shall be fair , clear and not misleading . where other documentation exists , the key information document shall be consistent with those documents .


### where an investment product manufacturer has produced a key information document which does not comply with the requirements of articles 6 , 7 and 8 on which a retail investor has relied when making an investment decision , such a retail investor may claim from the investment product manufacturer damages for any loss caused to that retail investor through the use of the key information document . ### a retail investor who has relied when making an investment decision on a key information document which does not comply with the requirements in articles 6 , 7 and 8 may claim from the investment product manufacturer damages for financial loss caused by the investment product manufacturer ' s failure to comply with those requirements . the information in the key information document shall be fair , clear and not misleading . it shall be consistent with the relevant parts of the prospectus . where other contractual documentation exists , the key information document shall be consistent with those documents .


### the investment product manufacturer shall establish appropriate procedures and arrangements which ensure that retail investors who have submitted a complaint in relation to the key information document receive a substantive reply in a timely and proper manner . ### the investment product manufacturer and the person selling investment products shall establish appropriate procedures and arrangements which ensure that : retail investors have an effective way of submitting a complaint against the investment product manufacturer ; retail investors who have submitted a complaint in relation to the key information document receive a substantive reply in a timely and proper manner ; and effective redress procedures are also available to retail investors in the event of cross - border disputes , in particular where the investment product manufacturer is located in another member state or in a third country .


### to meet the needs of retail investors , it is necessary to ensure that information on investment products is accurate , fair , clear and not misleading for those investors . this regulation should therefore lay down common standards for the drafting of the key information document , in order to ensure that it is comprehensible for retail investors . given the difficulties many retail investors have in understanding specialist financial terminology , particular attention should be paid to the vocabulary and style of writing used in the document . rules should also be laid down on the language in which it should be drawn up . furthermore , retail investors should be able to understand the key information document on its own without referring to other information . ### to meet the needs of retail investors , it is necessary to ensure that information on investment products is accurate , fair , clear and not misleading for those investors . this regulation should therefore lay down common standards for the drafting of the key information document , in order to ensure that it is comprehensible for retail investors . given the difficulties many retail investors have in understanding specialist financial terminology , particular attention should be paid to the vocabulary and style of writing used in the document . rules should also be laid down on the language in which it should be drawn up . the calculations of the costs that may arise should also be explained in an understandable manner . furthermore , retail investors should be able to understand the key information document on its own without referring to other information .


### key information documents are the foundation for investment decisions by retail investors . for this reason , investment product manufacturers have an important responsibility towards retail investors in ensuring that they comply with the rules of this regulation . it is therefore important to ensure that retail investors who relied on a key investor document for their investment decision have an effective right of redress . it should also be ensured that all retail investors across the union have the same right to seek compensation for damages they may suffer due to failures on the part of investment product manufacturers in complying with the requirements set out in this regulation . therefore , rules regarding the liability of the investment product manufacturers should be harmonised . this regulation should establish that the retail investor should be able to hold the product manufacturer liable for an infringement of this regulation in case a loss is caused through the use of the key information document . ### key information documents are the foundation for investment decisions by retail investors . for this reason , investment product manufacturers have an important responsibility towards retail investors in ensuring that they comply with the rules of this regulation . it is therefore important to ensure that retail investors who relied on a key investor document for their investment decision have an effective right of redress . it should also be ensured that all retail investors across the union have the same right to seek compensation for damages they may suffer due to failures on the part of investment product manufacturers in complying with the requirements set out in this regulation , provided a causal link is established . therefore , rules regarding the liability of the investment product manufacturers should be harmonised .


### when a retail investor demonstrates a loss resulting from the use of the information contained in the key information document , the investment product manufacturer has to prove that the key information document has been drawn up in compliance with articles 6 , 7 and 8 of this regulation . ### however , member states shall ensure that no civil liability shall attach to any person solely on the basis of a key information document , including any translation thereof , unless the information given in a key information document is misleading , inaccurate or inconsistent with other relevant parts of the document or with binding contractual documents . the key information document shall contain a clear warning in this respect .


### under a section titled ‘ what are the costs ? ’ , the costs associated with an investment in the investment product , comprising both direct and indirect costs to be borne by the investor , including summary indicators of these costs ; ### under a section titled ‘ costs and charges ? ’ , the costs associated with an investment in the investment product , comprising both direct and indirect costs to be borne by the investor , including a summary indicator of these costs in monetary terms , and a statement that the retail investor should ask the person selling the investment product for further information about the costs , including any additional costs charged by the person selling not shown in the key information document and a statement that the tax legislation of the investor ' s home member state may have an impact on the return of the investment ;


### where investment product manufacturers subject to this regulation are also subject to directive 2009 / 138 / ec , this regulation and directive 2009 / 138 / ec shall both apply . ### information contained in the key information document shall be regarded by competent authorities as appropriate information with respect to information on the risks underlying the contract which are assumed by the policy holder and shall be deemed as satisfying the requirements laid down in article 185 of directive 2009 / 138 / ec .


### this regulation lays down uniform rules on the format and content of the key information document to be drawn up by investment product manufacturers and uniform rules on the provision of this document to retail investors . ### this regulation lays down uniform rules on the format and content of the key information document to be drawn up by investment product manufacturers and uniform rules on the provision of this document to retail investors . where there is another eu legislative act governing specific aspects of the distribution of investment products , the provisions of that act shall take precedence over the rules of this regulation .