### 30. deeply regrets that the commission still has not responded to parliament's call for a comprehensive review of the budget line for multimedia measures , particularly with regard to the framework contract with euronews; decides to put its budgetary allocation in reserve until the commission has answered the concerns raised by the court of auditors; ### 30. deeply regrets that the commission still has not responded to parliament's call for a comprehensive review of the budget line for multimedia measures , particularly with regard to the framework contract with euronews; decides to put its budgetary allocation in reserve until the commission has answered the concerns raised by the court of auditors; notes however that the court of auditors does not point to any shortcomings on euronews’s part in its contractual reporting duties under the current framework; regrets that such a reserve of 18 million euros endangers the financial viability of euronews , and consequently its staff , while it is highly important that the eu supports independent and high-quality journalism on eu affairs;


### 31. decides to apply targeted reinforcements to eppo; believes that its nature requires a stronger guarantee of independence , and its budget should therefore be presented under heading 7 , an independent organism rather than assimilated to an agency; ### 31. decides to apply justified and significant reinforcements to eppo to allow the body to take up its duties without delay and in line with the requirements to fulfil its mandate; underlines that the establishment of the eppo must not result in a deterioration of capacity of the european anti-fraud office (olaf) to function properly; believes that eppo’s nature requires a stronger guarantee of independence , and its budget should therefore be presented under heading 7 , an independent entity rather than assimilated to an agency;


### 38. highlights the particularly difficult socio-economic circumstances in the union’s outermost regions , compounded by the impact of the corona crisis; against this background , proposes a top-up for the budget line covering the posei programme for the maintenance of the agricultural activity and for the supply of food and agricultural products in the outermost regions , which must be provided with adequate resources; ### 38. highlights the particularly difficult socio-economic circumstances in the union’s outermost regions , compounded by the impact of the corona crisis; against this background , proposes a top-up for the budget line covering the posei programme for the maintenance of the agricultural activity and for the supply of food and agricultural products in the outermost regions , which must be provided with adequate resources; furthermore , underlines the importance of taking in account the special characteristics and constraints of the outermost regions when designing eu programs and funds in the multiannual financial framework 2021-2027 and in the next generation eu.


### 41. increases funding for parliament’s priorities in the fields of migration and border management , most prominently the integrated border management fund and the asylum and migration fund; at the same time , aims to enhance budgetary transparency by reflecting both funds’ specific objectives into the budget structure , so that the budgetary authority can track expenditure more closely; ### 41. increases funding for parliament’s priorities in the fields of migration and border management , most prominently the integrated border management fund and the asylum and migration fund; at the same time , aims to enhance budgetary transparency by reflecting both funds’ specific objectives into the budget structure , so that the budgetary authority can track expenditure more closely; notes the recently presented migration package of the european commission and an upcoming proposal to widen the mandate of the european union agency for law enforcement cooperation (europol); asks the commission to present a draft amending budget should further resources become necessary during the implementation of the budget 2021;


### 42. underlines that it is of paramount importance to invest in adequate funding and staffing levels for all agencies operating in the fields of migration , asylum and border management; ### 42. underlines that it is of paramount importance to invest in adequate funding and staffing levels for all agencies operating in the fields of migration , asylum and border management; such as the european asylum support office(easo) , the european union agency for the operational management of large-scale it-systems in the area of freedom , security and justice (eu-lisa) and the european border and coast guard agency (frontex);


### 45. calls for increased funding for military mobility with the aim of helping member states act faster and more effectively; notes that sufficient funding is needed to support missions and operations under the common security and defence policy , including by measures such as funding dual-use transport infrastructure and simplifying diplomatic clearances and customs rules; ### 45. calls for increased funding for military mobility with the aim of helping member states act faster and more effectively; notes that sufficient funding is needed to support missions and operations under the common security and defence policy , including by measures such as funding dual-use transport infrastructure and simplifying diplomatic clearances and customs rules;


### 46. recalls that the important role played by decentralised agencies operating in the field of security and proposes targeted increases to allow them to properly perform their tasks; ### 46. recalls that the important role played by decentralised agencies operating in the field of security and proposes targeted increases to allow them to properly perform their tasks; recalls that agencies operating in the area of security and law enforcement cooperation are requested to provide increased operational support to member states with statutory staff unchanged , which leads to an unsustainable work situation;


### 46. recalls that the important role played by decentralised agencies operating in the field of security and proposes targeted increases to allow them to properly perform their tasks; ### 46. recalls that the important role played by decentralised agencies operating in the field of security such as the european monitoring centre for drugs and drug addiction (emcdda) and the european union agency for law enforcement cooperation (europol) and proposes targeted increases to allow them to properly perform their tasks;


### 51. points to the persistent challenges in the union’s eastern and southern neighbourhood , as well as the importance of endowing the united nations relief and works agency for palestine refugees in the near east with adequate financial resources; recalls the importance of developing stable relations and strong cooperation between the eu and africa and deems appropriate to dedicate sufficient financial resources to the development of this continent , which would contribute inter alia to mitigating the root causes of forced migration; ### 51. points to the persistent challenges in the union’s eastern and southern neighbourhood , as well as the importance of endowing the united nations relief and works agency for palestine refugees in the near east with adequate financial resources; is particularly concerned that school curriculum and textbooks authorised by the palestinian authority contain hate speech and violent depictions. recalls that all teaching and training programmes that are financed from union funds have to reflect common values and comply with unesco standards for peace and tolerance in school education.recalls the importance of developing stable relations and strong cooperation between the eu and africa and deems appropriate to dedicate sufficient financial resources to the development of this continent , which would contribute inter alia to mitigating the root causes of forced migration;


### 51. points to the persistent challenges in the union’s eastern and southern neighbourhood , as well as the importance of endowing the united nations relief and works agency for palestine refugees in the near east with adequate financial resources; recalls the importance of developing stable relations and strong cooperation between the eu and africa and deems appropriate to dedicate sufficient financial resources to the development of this continent , which would contribute inter alia to mitigating the root causes of forced migration; ### 51. points to the persistent challenges in the union’s eastern and southern neighbourhood , as well as the importance of endowing the united nations relief and works agency for palestine refugees in the near east with adequate financial resources; recalls the importance of developing stable relations and strong cooperation between the eu and africa and deems appropriate to dedicate sufficient financial resources to the development of this continent , which would contribute inter alia to mitigating the root causes of migration;


### 52. highlights the relevance of the accession process of the western balkan countries; deems it essential that the new nomenclature for the ipa iii instrument comprises separate budget lines for the western balkans and turkey , in view of the highly sensitive nature of eu funding for turkey; ### 52. underlines the need for a meaningful financing for western balkans countries in a view of the accession process as well as numerous challenges that the eu and the candidate countries need to face; deems it essential that the new nomenclature for the ipa iii instrument comprises separate budget lines for the western balkans and turkey , in view of the highly sensitive nature of eu funding for turkey;


### 55. in the light of threats related to cybersecurity as well as the spreading of fake news , highlights the need for the union budget to better address and respond to them on a horizontal level , both at the headquarters and at eu delegations around the world; ### 55. in the light of threats related to cybersecurity as well as the spreading of fake news , highlights the need for the union budget to better address and respond to them on a horizontal level , both at the headquarters and at eu delegations around the world; deems necessary to reinforces therefore lines dedicated to strategic communication for external action;


### 58. recalls the importance of pilot projects and preparatory actions (pp-pas) as tools for the formulation of political priorities and the introduction of new initiatives that have the potential to turn into standing union activities and programmes; having carried out a careful analysis of all the proposals submitted adopts a balanced package of pp-pas that reflects parliament’s political priorities; calls on the commission to swiftly implement pp-pas , in close cooperation with the members of the european parliament , and provide feedback on their performance and results delivered on the ground; ### 58. recalls the importance of pilot projects and preparatory actions (pp-pas) as tools for the formulation of political priorities and the introduction of new initiatives that have the potential to turn into standing union activities and programmes; having carried out analysis of all the proposals submitted adopts a package of pp-pas that reflects parliament’s political priorities; calls on the commission to swiftly implement pp-pas , in close cooperation with the members of the european parliament , and provide feedback on their performance and results delivered on the ground;


### 62. notes the ongoing negotiations on the new multiannual financial framework 2021-2027 and the uncertainty regarding the funding level of the new heading 7 - european public administration; stresses that parliament has fulfilled the 5 % staff reduction objective and actually saw an overall cut of 6 %; highlights the fact that , since the adoption of the lisbon treaty , parliament has had to cope with an increased amount of tasks; notes that synergies and re-prioritisation were achieved in the last legislative term; stresses that the functioning of parliament depends on the fulfilment of its administrative tasks , which require adequate staffing levels; is deeply concerned by the serious and structural understaffing in many committees’ secretariats in contradiction with the important increase of their workload and invites the secretary-general to urgently provide solutions to adequately staff the committees’ secretariats via internal redeployment and increase of contractual agents; ### 62. notes the ongoing negotiations on the new multiannual financial framework 2021-2027 and the uncertainty regarding the funding level of the new heading 7 - european public administration; stresses that parliament has fulfilled the 5 % staff reduction objective and actually saw an overall cut of 6 %; highlights the fact that , since the adoption of the lisbon treaty , parliament has had to cope with an increased amount of tasks; notes that synergies and re-prioritisation were achieved in the last legislative term; stresses that the functioning of parliament depends on the fulfilment of its political and administrative tasks , which require adequate staffing levels; is deeply concerned by the serious and structural understaffing in many committees’ secretariats in contradiction with the important increase of their workload and invites the bureau to urgently provide solutions to adequately staff the committees’ secretariats via an increase of temporary agents and contractual agents , and , if feasible , internal redeployment;


### - a detailed breakdown of expenditure for the establishment of the new europa experience centres for 2021 and cost of the creation of a series of mobile versions of the parlamentarium; ### - a detailed breakdown of expenditure for the establishment of the new europa experience centres for 2021 and cost of the creation of a series of mobile versions of the parlamentarium; a breakdown of expenditure for the new visitors strategy and the four-year information campaign , as well as a thorough evaluation of the communication campaign undertaken before and during the european election 2019; is of the opinion that any new communication measures should be based on an objective and factual analysis of this evaluation;


### - an overview of all other currently rented parliament buildings that will remain occupied in 2021 as well as a detailed projection of the growing energy costs; ### - an overview of all other currently rented parliament buildings that will remain occupied in 2021 as well as a detailed projection of the growing energy costs; calls in this regard for green energy savings;


### a. whereas in the field of transport , more than eur 700 billion in investment is needed for the trans-european transport network alone between now and 2030 and additional investments are required for the deployment of innovative strategies , charging infrastructure and alternative fuels; ### a. whereas in the field of transport , more than eur 700 billion in investment is needed for the trans-european transport network alone between now and 2030 and additional investments are required for the deployment of innovative strategies and its solutions , charging infrastructure and alternative fuels;


### 1. underlines that erasmus+ , the european solidarity corps and creative europe , as the eu’s main education , volunteering and culture programmes , play a key role in fostering education in the skills needed for the green transition , raising awareness of environmental issues , volunteering to protect the environment , and developing creative , inclusive and accessible solutions to tackle environmental challenges; ### 1. underlines that erasmus+ , the european solidarity corps and creative europe , as the eu’s main education , volunteering and culture programmes , play a key role in fostering education in the skills needed for the green transition , raising awareness of environmental and climate issues , volunteering to protect the environment and the rural area , and developing creative , inclusive and accessible solutions to tackle environmental challenges; highlights in this regard the importance of agricultural internships supported by erasmus+;


### 1. underlines that erasmus+ , the european solidarity corps and creative europe , as the eu’s main education , volunteering and culture programmes , play a key role in fostering education in the skills needed for the green transition , raising awareness of environmental issues , volunteering to protect the environment , and developing creative , inclusive and accessible solutions to tackle environmental challenges; ### 1. underlines that erasmus+ , the european solidarity corps and creative europe , as the eu’s main education , volunteering and culture programmes , play a key role in fostering education in the skills needed to access the labour market and to cultivate the values of the green transition , raising awareness of environmental issues , volunteering to protect the environment , and developing creative , inclusive and accessible solutions to tackle environmental challenges;


### 1. welcomes the commission communication on the sustainable europe investment plan (com(2020)0021) , which aims to enable a just and well-managed transition towards a resilient and sustainable society; emphasises that it is imperative that the eu achieve the revised 2030 and 2050 climate and biodiversity goals and reach its commitments under the paris agreement , based on the best available science; ### 1. welcomes the commission communication on the sustainable europe investment plan (com(2020)0021) , which aims to enable a just and well-managed transition towards a resilient and sustainable society; emphasises that it is imperative that the eu achieve the revised 2030 and 2050 climate , circular economy and biodiversity goals and reach its commitments under the paris agreement , based on the best available science , back-casting approach , life-cycle assessment and natural capital accounting methodology;


### 1. welcomes the sustainable europe investment plan (seip) as central in ensuring the success of the green deal and the transition towards a more sustainable and resilient economy; ### 1. welcomes the sustainable europe investment plan (seip) as central in ensuring the success of the green deal and the transition towards a more sustainable and resilient economy , underlining that all public and private finance should adhere to the eu taxonomy and to the do no significant harm principle. finance through the eu budget , the european semester , the eu financial instruments such as the next generation eu , the eu investment plan , cohesion funds and structural and investment funds , as well as the eib , ecb and operations should not go to projects and activities that significantly harm social or environmental objectives;


### 1. expects that under the future multiannual financial framework (mff) , the contribution to the agricultural and rural development domain will be maintained at current levels; insists that any additional measures relating to the green transition be financed with fresh money and additional eu own resources; ### 1. expects that under the future multiannual financial framework (mff) , the contribution to the agricultural and rural development domain will be maintained at current levels; insists that any additional measures relating to the green transition be financed with fresh money and additional eu own resources; points out that the additional measures under the european green deal and the farm-to-fork strategy must not be financed at the expense of existing common agricultural policy (cap) funding;


### 2. points out that under the investment plan , funding can be dedicated to thematic projects in the fields of education , volunteering and culture; calls on the commission to step up the synergies between the green deal and erasmus+ , the european solidarity corps and creative europe in order to complement and cross-fertilise their specific methods of tackling environmental issues; ### 2. points out that under the investment plan , funding can be dedicated to thematic projects in the fields of education , volunteering and culture; calls on the commission to step up the synergies between the green deal and erasmus+ , the european solidarity corps and creative europe in order to complement and cross-fertilise their specific methods of tackling issues of sustainability and competitiveness;


### 3. calls on the commission to introduce financial incentives in the investment plan to complement the erasmus+ , european solidarity corps and creative europe programmes in the shift towards more environmentally friendly , sustainable means of transport , while also promoting inclusion and accessibility; takes the view that such incentives should be supported with an ambitious and dedicated budget within the investment plan; ### 3. calls on the commission to introduce financial incentives in the investment plan to complement the erasmus+ and european solidarity corps programmes in order to allow more people to take advantage of them , and to support the creative europe programme in terms of project design , so that geographical distance and transport costs do not discourage people from participating in these european programmes and so that these programmes promote inclusion and accessibility; takes the view that such incentives should be supported with an ambitious and dedicated budget within the investment plan;


### 3. calls on the commission to introduce financial incentives in the investment plan to complement the erasmus+ , european solidarity corps and creative europe programmes in the shift towards more environmentally friendly , sustainable means of transport , while also promoting inclusion and accessibility; takes the view that such incentives should be supported with an ambitious and dedicated budget within the investment plan; ### 3. calls on the commission to introduce financial incentives in the investment plan to complement the erasmus+ , european solidarity corps and creative europe programmes in the shift towards more environmentally friendly , sustainable means of transport , in particular railways , while also promoting inclusion and accessibility; takes the view that participants for whom air travel is the only option , shall not be discriminated or excluded from the programmes; such incentives should be supported with an ambitious and dedicated budget within the investment plan;


### 4. is concerned about the situation resulting from the covid-19 crisis , especially that of the most vulnerable individuals and sectors and that of minorities , who face an even more precarious situation than before the crisis; calls on the commission to take all necessary measures to adapt the proposal for the green deal investment plan to develop an approach coordinated with emergency measures , such as the coronavirus response investment initiative and the proposed sure scheme , and recovery instruments , and requests that investment in the fields of culture , education , youth and sport be considered strategic in order to foster the green transition promoted through the green deal. ### 4. is concerned about the situation resulting from the covid-19 crisis , especially that of the most vulnerable individuals and sectors , such as the self-employed and entrepreneurs whose businesses and jobs are under threat or families facing the ills of unemployment; calls on the commission to take all necessary measures to adapt the proposal for the green deal investment plan to develop an approach coordinated with emergency measures , such as the coronavirus response investment initiative and the proposed sure scheme , and recovery instruments , and requests that investment in the fields of culture , education , youth and sport be considered strategic in order to foster the green transition promoted through the green deal.


### 4. is concerned about the situation resulting from the covid-19 crisis , especially that of the most vulnerable individuals and sectors and that of minorities , who face an even more precarious situation than before the crisis; calls on the commission to take all necessary measures to adapt the proposal for the green deal investment plan to develop an approach coordinated with emergency measures , such as the coronavirus response investment initiative and the proposed sure scheme , and recovery instruments , and requests that investment in the fields of culture , education , youth and sport be considered strategic in order to foster the green transition promoted through the green deal. ### 4. is concerned about the situation resulting from the covid-19 crisis , especially that of the most vulnerable individuals and sectors and that of minorities , who face an even more precarious situation than before the crisis; calls on the commission to take all necessary measures to adapt the proposal for the green deal investment plan to develop an approach coordinated with emergency measures , such as the coronavirus response investment initiative and recovery instruments; notes , that any measures must not overlap or lead to duplicity; requests that investment in the fields of culture , education , youth and sport be considered strategic in order to foster the green transition promoted through the green deal.


### — having regard to its resolution of 18 december 2019 on fair taxation in a digitalised and globalised economy: beps 2.0’5 , ### deleted


### (1) the covid-19 pandemic is a major shock to the global and union economy. due to the necessary containment measures , economic activity in the eu dropped significantly. the contraction in eu gdp in 2020 is expected to be around 7.5% , far deeper than during the financial crisis in 2009. the outbreak of the pandemic has shown the interconnectivity of global supply chains and exposed some vulnerabilities such as the over-reliance of strategic industries on non-diversified external supply sources. such vulnerabilities need to be addressed , to improve the union’s emergency response as well as the resilience of the entire economy , while maintaining its openness to competition and trade in line with its rules. investment activity is expected to have dropped significantly. even before the pandemic , while a recovery in investment-to-gdp ratios in the union could be observed , it remained below what might be expected in a strong recovery and was insufficient to compensate for years of underinvestment following the 2009 crisis. more importantly , the current investment levels and forecasts do not cover the union’s needs for structural investment to restart and sustain long-term growth in the face of technological change and global competitiveness , including for innovation , skills , infrastructure , small and medium-sized enterprises (smes) and the need to address key societal challenges such as sustainability or population ageing. consequently , in order to achieve the union's policy objectives and to support a swift , inclusive and healthy economic recovery , support is necessary to address market failures and sub-optimal investment situations and to reduce the investment gap in targeted sectors. ### (1) the covid-19 pandemic is a major shock to the global and union economy. due to the necessary containment measures , economic activity in the eu dropped significantly , in particular with regard to the transport and tourism sectors. the contraction in eu gdp in 2020 is expected to be around 7.5% , far deeper than during the financial crisis in 2009. the outbreak of the pandemic has shown the interconnectivity of global supply chains and exposed some vulnerabilities such as the over-reliance of strategic industries on non-diversified external supply sources. such vulnerabilities need to be addressed , to improve the union’s emergency response as well as the resilience of the entire economy , while maintaining its openness to competition and trade in line with its rules , including the freedom to conduct business activity , as well as freedom of movement of persons and goods. investment activity is expected to have dropped significantly. even before the pandemic , while a recovery in investment-to-gdp ratios in the union could be observed , it remained below what might be expected in a strong recovery and was insufficient to compensate for years of underinvestment following the 2009 crisis. more importantly , the current investment levels and forecasts do not cover the union’s needs for structural investment to restart and sustain long-term growth in the face of technological change and global competitiveness , including for innovation , skills , infrastructure , small and medium-sized enterprises (smes) and the need to address key societal challenges such as sustainability or population ageing. consequently , in order to achieve the union's policy objectives and to support a swift , inclusive and healthy economic recovery , support is necessary to address market failures and sub-optimal investment situations and to reduce the investment gap in targeted sectors.


### (1) the covid-19 pandemic is a major shock to the global and union economy. due to the necessary containment measures , economic activity in the eu dropped significantly. the contraction in eu gdp in 2020 is expected to be around 7.5% , far deeper than during the financial crisis in 2009. the outbreak of the pandemic has shown the interconnectivity of global supply chains and exposed some vulnerabilities such as the over-reliance of strategic industries on non-diversified external supply sources. such vulnerabilities need to be addressed , to improve the union’s emergency response as well as the resilience of the entire economy , while maintaining its openness to competition and trade in line with its rules. investment activity is expected to have dropped significantly. even before the pandemic , while a recovery in investment-to-gdp ratios in the union could be observed , it remained below what might be expected in a strong recovery and was insufficient to compensate for years of underinvestment following the 2009 crisis. more importantly , the current investment levels and forecasts do not cover the union’s needs for structural investment to restart and sustain long-term growth in the face of technological change and global competitiveness , including for innovation , skills , infrastructure , small and medium-sized enterprises (smes) and the need to address key societal challenges such as sustainability or population ageing. consequently , in order to achieve the union's policy objectives and to support a swift , inclusive and healthy economic recovery , support is necessary to address market failures and sub-optimal investment situations and to reduce the investment gap in targeted sectors. ### (1) the covid-19 pandemic is a major shock to the global and union economy. due to the necessary containment measures , economic activity in the eu dropped significantly. the contraction in eu gdp in 2020 is expected to be around 7.5% , far deeper than during the financial crisis in 2009. the outbreak of the pandemic has shown the interconnectivity of global supply chains and exposed some vulnerabilities such as the over-reliance of strategic industries on non-diversified external supply sources. such vulnerabilities need to be addressed , to improve the union’s emergency response as well as the resilience of the entire economy , while maintaining its openness to competition and trade in line with its rules. investment activity is expected to have dropped significantly. even before the pandemic , while a recovery in investment-to-gdp ratios in the union could be observed , it remained below what might be expected in a strong recovery and was insufficient to compensate for years of underinvestment following the 2009 crisis. more importantly , the current investment levels and forecasts do not cover the union’s needs for structural investment to restart and sustain long-term sustainable growth in the face of climate transition , environmental degradation , technological change and global competitiveness , including for innovation , skills , infrastructure , small and medium-sized enterprises (smes) and the need to address key societal challenges such as sustainability or population ageing. consequently , in order to achieve the union's policy objectives of the european green deal , sustainable europe investment plan , and to support a swift , sustainable , inclusive and healthy economic recovery , support is necessary to address market failures and sub-optimal investment situations and to reduce the investment gap in targeted sectors.


### (1) the covid-19 pandemic is a major shock to the global and union economy. due to the necessary containment measures , economic activity in the eu dropped significantly. the contraction in eu gdp in 2020 is expected to be around 7.5% , far deeper than during the financial crisis in 2009. the outbreak of the pandemic has shown the interconnectivity of global supply chains and exposed some vulnerabilities such as the over-reliance of strategic industries on non-diversified external supply sources. such vulnerabilities need to be addressed , to improve the union’s emergency response as well as the resilience of the entire economy , while maintaining its openness to competition and trade in line with its rules. investment activity is expected to have dropped significantly. even before the pandemic , while a recovery in investment-to-gdp ratios in the union could be observed , it remained below what might be expected in a strong recovery and was insufficient to compensate for years of underinvestment following the 2009 crisis. more importantly , the current investment levels and forecasts do not cover the union’s needs for structural investment to restart and sustain long-term growth in the face of technological change and global competitiveness , including for innovation , skills , infrastructure , small and medium-sized enterprises (smes) and the need to address key societal challenges such as sustainability or population ageing. consequently , in order to achieve the union's policy objectives and to support a swift , inclusive and healthy economic recovery , support is necessary to address market failures and sub-optimal investment situations and to reduce the investment gap in targeted sectors. ### (1) the covid-19 pandemic is a major shock to the global and union economy. due to the necessary containment measures , economic activity in the eu dropped significantly. the contraction in eu gdp in 2020 is expected to be around 7.5% , far deeper than during the financial crisis in 2009. the outbreak of the pandemic has shown the interconnectivity of global supply chains and exposed some vulnerabilities such as the over-reliance of strategic industries on non-diversified external supply sources. such vulnerabilities need to be addressed , particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (smes) , to improve the union’s emergency response as well as the resilience of the entire economy , while maintaining its openness to competition and trade in line with its rules. investment activity is expected to have dropped significantly. even before the pandemic , while a recovery in investment-to-gdp ratios in the union could be observed , it remained below what might be expected in a strong recovery and was insufficient to compensate for years of underinvestment following the 2009 crisis. more importantly , the current investment levels and forecasts do not cover the union’s needs for structural investment to restart and sustain long-term growth in the face of technological change and global competitiveness , including for innovation , skills , infrastructure , smes and the need to address key societal challenges such as sustainability or population ageing. consequently , in order to achieve the union's policy objectives , in particular the dual objective of accelerating the climate and digital transitions , and to support a swift , inclusive and healthy economic recovery , support is necessary to address market failures and sub-optimal investment situations and to reduce the investment gap in targeted sectors.


### (1) the covid-19 pandemic is a major shock to the global and union economy. due to the necessary containment measures , economic activity in the eu dropped significantly. the contraction in eu gdp in 2020 is expected to be around 7.5% , far deeper than during the financial crisis in 2009. the outbreak of the pandemic has shown the interconnectivity of global supply chains and exposed some vulnerabilities such as the over-reliance of strategic industries on non-diversified external supply sources. such vulnerabilities need to be addressed , to improve the union’s emergency response as well as the resilience of the entire economy , while maintaining its openness to competition and trade in line with its rules. investment activity is expected to have dropped significantly. even before the pandemic , while a recovery in investment-to-gdp ratios in the union could be observed , it remained below what might be expected in a strong recovery and was insufficient to compensate for years of underinvestment following the 2009 crisis. more importantly , the current investment levels and forecasts do not cover the union’s needs for structural investment to restart and sustain long-term growth in the face of technological change and global competitiveness , including for innovation , skills , infrastructure , small and medium-sized enterprises (smes) and the need to address key societal challenges such as sustainability or population ageing. consequently , in order to achieve the union's policy objectives and to support a swift , inclusive and healthy economic recovery , support is necessary to address market failures and sub-optimal investment situations and to reduce the investment gap in targeted sectors. ### (1) the covid-19 pandemic is a major shock to the global and union economy. due to the necessary containment measures , economic activity in the eu dropped significantly. the contraction in eu gdp in 2020 is expected to be around 7.5% , far deeper than during the financial crisis in 2009. the outbreak of the pandemic has shown the interconnectivity of global supply chains and exposed some vulnerabilities such as the over-reliance of strategic industries on non-diversified external supply sources. such vulnerabilities need to be addressed , particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (smes) , to improve the union’s emergency response as well as the resilience of the entire economy , including through the digitalisation and decarbonisation of the economy , while maintaining its openness to competition and trade in line with its rules. investment activity is expected to have dropped significantly. even before the pandemic , while a recovery in investment-to-gdp ratios in the union could be observed , it remained below what might be expected in a strong recovery and was insufficient to compensate for years of underinvestment following the 2009 crisis. more importantly , the current investment levels and forecasts do not cover the union’s needs for structural investment to restart and sustain long-term growth in the face of technological change and global competitiveness , including for innovation , skills , infrastructure , small and medium-sized enterprises (smes) and the need to address key societal challenges such as sustainability or population ageing. consequently , in order to achieve the union's policy objectives and to support a swift , inclusive and healthy economic recovery , support is necessary to address market failures and sub-optimal investment situations and to reduce the investment gap in targeted sectors.


### (5) the investeu fund should contribute to improving the competitiveness and socio-economic convergence and cohesion of the union , including in the fields of innovation and digitisation , to the efficient use of resources in accordance with the circular economy , to the sustainability and inclusiveness of the union's economic growth and to the social resilience and integration of the union capital markets , including through solutions that address the fragmentation of union capital markets and that diversify sources of financing for union enterprises. to that end , the investeu fund should support projects that are technically and economically viable by providing a framework for the use of debt , risk sharing and equity instruments backed up by a guarantee from the union budget and by financial contributions from implementing partners as relevant. the investeu fund should be demand-driven , while at the same time it should focus on providing strategic , long-term benefits in relation to key areas of union policy which otherwise would not be funded or would be insufficiently funded , thereby contributing to meeting policy objectives of the union. support under the investeu fund should cover a wide range of sectors and regions , but should avoid excessive sectoral or geographical concentration and should facilitate access of projects composed of partner entities in multiple regions across the eu. ### (5) the investeu fund should contribute to improving the competitiveness and socio-economic convergence and cohesion of the union , including in the fields of innovation and digitisation , to the efficient use of resources in accordance with the circular economy , to the sustainability and inclusiveness of the union's economic growth and to the social resilience and integration of the union capital markets , including through solutions that address the fragmentation of union capital markets and that diversify sources of financing for union enterprises , taking into account divergencies in economic and infrastructural development between individual regions and member states. to that end , the investeu fund should support projects that are technically and economically viable by providing a framework for the use of debt , risk sharing and equity instruments backed up by a guarantee from the union budget and by financial contributions from implementing partners as relevant. the investeu fund should be demand-driven , while at the same time it should focus on providing strategic , long-term benefits in relation to key areas of union policy which otherwise would not be funded or would be insufficiently funded , thereby contributing to meeting policy objectives of the union , including cohesion policy. support under the investeu fund should cover a wide range of sectors and regions , but should avoid excessive sectoral or geographical concentration and should facilitate access of projects composed of partner entities in multiple regions across the eu , with particular focus on rural , mountainous , outermost and least accessible regions of the eu.


### (5) the investeu fund should contribute to improving the competitiveness and socio-economic convergence and cohesion of the union , including in the fields of innovation and digitisation , to the efficient use of resources in accordance with the circular economy , to the sustainability and inclusiveness of the union's economic growth and to the social resilience and integration of the union capital markets , including through solutions that address the fragmentation of union capital markets and that diversify sources of financing for union enterprises. to that end , the investeu fund should support projects that are technically and economically viable by providing a framework for the use of debt , risk sharing and equity instruments backed up by a guarantee from the union budget and by financial contributions from implementing partners as relevant. the investeu fund should be demand-driven , while at the same time it should focus on providing strategic , long-term benefits in relation to key areas of union policy which otherwise would not be funded or would be insufficiently funded , thereby contributing to meeting policy objectives of the union. support under the investeu fund should cover a wide range of sectors and regions , but should avoid excessive sectoral or geographical concentration and should facilitate access of projects composed of partner entities in multiple regions across the eu. ### (5) the investeu fund should contribute to improving the competitiveness and socio-economic convergence and cohesion of the union , including in the fields of innovation and digitisation , to the efficient use of resources in accordance with the circular economy , to the sustainability and inclusiveness of the union's economic growth and to the social resilience and integration of the union capital markets , including through solutions that address the fragmentation of union capital markets and that diversify sources of financing for union enterprises. to that end , the investeu fund should support projects that are technically and economically viable by providing a framework for the use of debt , risk sharing and equity instruments backed up by a guarantee from the union budget and by financial contributions from implementing partners as relevant. the investeu fund should be demand-driven , while at the same time it should focus on providing strategic , long-term benefits in relation to key areas of union policy which otherwise would not be funded or would be insufficiently funded , thereby contributing to meeting policy objectives of the union. support under the investeu fund should cover a wide range of sectors and regions , but should avoid excessive sectoral or geographical concentration and should facilitate access of projects composed of partner entities in multiple regions across the eu , taken into consideration the specificities of the outermost regions.


### (14) low infrastructure investment rates in the union during the financial crisis and again during the covid-19 crisis undermined the union's ability to boost sustainable growth , competitiveness and convergence. it also creates risk of consolidating imbalances and impacts regions’ development long-term. sizeable investments in union infrastructure , in particular with regard to interconnection and energy efficiency and to creating a single european transport area , are essential to meeting the union's sustainability targets , including the union’s commitments towards the sdgs , and the 2030 energy and climate targets. accordingly , support from the investeu fund should target investments into transport , energy , including energy efficiency and renewable energy sources and other safe and sustainable low-emission energy sources , environmental infrastructure , infrastructure related to climate action , maritime infrastructure and digital infrastructure. the investeu programme should prioritise areas that are under-invested , and in which additional investment is required. to maximise the impact and added value of union financing support , it is appropriate to promote a streamlined investment process that enables visibility of the project pipeline and maximises synergies across relevant union programmes in areas such as transport , energy and digitisation. bearing in mind threats to safety and security , investment projects receiving union support should include measures for infrastructure resilience , including infrastructure maintenance and safety , and should take into account principles for the protection of citizens in public spaces. this should be complementary to the efforts made by other union funds that provide support for security components of investments in public spaces , transport , energy and other critical infrastructure , such as the european regional development fund. ### (14) low infrastructure investment rates in the union during the financial crisis and again during the covid-19 crisis undermined the union's ability to boost sustainable growth , competitiveness and convergence. it also creates risk of consolidating imbalances and impacts regions’ development long-term , especially in the outermost regions. sizeable investments in union infrastructure , in particular with regard to interconnection and energy efficiency and to creating a single european transport area , are essential to meeting the union's sustainability targets , including the union’s commitments towards the sdgs , and the 2030 energy and climate targets. accordingly , support from the investeu fund should target investments into transport , energy , including energy efficiency and renewable energy sources and other safe and sustainable low-emission energy sources , environmental infrastructure , infrastructure related to climate action , maritime infrastructure and digital infrastructure. the investeu programme should prioritise areas that are under-invested , and in which additional investment is required. to maximise the impact and added value of union financing support , it is appropriate to promote a streamlined investment process that enables visibility of the project pipeline and maximises synergies across relevant union programmes in areas such as transport , energy and digitisation. bearing in mind threats to safety and security , investment projects receiving union support should include measures for infrastructure resilience , including infrastructure maintenance and safety , and should take into account principles for the protection of citizens in public spaces. this should be complementary to the efforts made by other union funds that provide support for security components of investments in public spaces , transport , energy and other critical infrastructure , such as the european regional development fund.


### (16) genuine multimodality is an opportunity to create an efficient and environmentally friendly transport network that uses the maximum potential of all means of transport and generates synergy between them. the investeu programme should support investments in multimodal transport hubs , which - in spite of their significant economic potential and business cases - carry a significant risk for private investors. the investeu programme should also contribute to the development and deployment of intelligent transport systems (its). the investeu programme should help to boost efforts to design and apply technologies that help to improve the safety of vehicles and road infrastructure. ### (16) genuine multimodality is an opportunity to create an efficient and environmentally friendly transport network that uses the maximum potential of all means of transport , with particular focus on rail transport , and generates synergy between them. the investeu programme should support investments in multimodal transport hubs , which - in spite of their significant economic and environmental potential , and business cases - carry a significant risk for private investors. the investeu programme should also contribute to the development and deployment of intelligent transport systems (its) and alternative fuels infrastructure. the investeu programme should help to boost efforts to design and apply technologies that help to improve the safety of vehicles and road infrastructure.


### (19) tourism is an important area for the union economy and the sector , which experienced a particularly severe contraction as a result of covid-19 pandemic. the investeu programme should contribute to strengthening its long-term competitiveness by supporting operations promoting sustainable , innovative and digital tourism. ### (19) tourism is an important area for the union economy and the sector , which experienced a particularly severe contraction as a result of covid-19 pandemic , which is particularly noticeable for smes. the investeu programme should contribute to strengthening its long-term competitiveness by supporting operations promoting sustainable , innovative and digital tourism , as well as agritourism.


### the sustainable and inclusive recovery of the union economy after the crisis caused by the covid-19 pandemic , upholding and strengthening its strategic value chains and maintaining and reinforcing activities of strategic importance to the union in relation to critical infrastructure , transformative technologies , game-changing innovations and inputs to businesses and consumers. ### the sustainable and inclusive recovery of the union economy after the crisis caused by the covid-19 pandemic , upholding and strengthening its strategic value chains and maintaining and reinforcing activities of strategic importance to the union in relation to critical infrastructure , transformative technologies , game-changing innovations and inputs to businesses and consumers , especially in the sectors most affected by the crisis , such as tourism and transport.


### the impact of the investment ; ### the impact of the investment , including on the environment;


### (1) in its communication of 11 december 201915 , the commission set out a european green deal for the european union and its citizens. the european green deal is a new growth strategy that aims to transform the union into a fair and prosperous society , with a modern , resource-efficient and competitive economy where there are no net emissions of greenhouse gases in 2050 and where economic growth is decoupled from resource use. ### (1) in its communication of 11 december 201915 , the commission set out a european green deal for the european union and its citizens. the european green deal is a new growth strategy that aims to transform the union into a fair and prosperous society , with a modern , resource-efficient and competitive economy with job creation and opportunities as its priority , where there are no net emissions of greenhouse gases in 2050.


### (4) in line with the objectives set out in the commission communication on the european green deal , there is a need to transform the union economy and to rethink policies , in particular in the field of transport and mobility , which implies accelerating the shift to sustainable and smart mobility. transport accounts for a quarter of the union’s greenhouse gas emissions , and still growing. to achieve climate neutrality , a 90 % reduction in transport emissions is needed by 2050. achieving sustainable transport means putting users first and providing them with more affordable , accessible , healthier and cleaner alternatives to their current mobility habits. the european green deal implies to accelerate the shift to sustainable and smart mobility to address these challenges. in particular , a substantial part of the 75% of inland freight carried today by road should be shifted onto rail and inland waterways. ### (4) in line with the objectives set out in the commission communication on the european green deal , there is a need to transform the union economy and to rethink policies , in particular in the field of transport and mobility , which implies accelerating the shift to sustainable and smart mobility. transport accounts for a quarter of the union’s greenhouse gas emissions , and still growing. to achieve climate neutrality , a 90 % reduction in transport emissions is needed by 2050. achieving sustainable transport means putting users first and providing them with alternatives so they can opt for those which they feel best suit their objectives. the european green deal implies to accelerate the shift to sustainable and smart mobility to address these challenges.


### (7) while the share of passenger rail in the union land transport has only slightly increased since 2007 , the share of freight has decreased. many obstacles remain to achieve a true single european rail area , including in respect of the need to minimise noise. overcoming these obstacles together with cost reduction and accelerated innovation will allow rail to realise its full potential. rail therefore needs a further boost to become more attractive to travellers and businesses alike. ### (7) while the share of passenger rail in the union land transport has only slightly increased since 2007 , the share of freight has decreased. to achieve the modal shift objectives outlined in the commission’s 2011 white paper on transport , the competition between road and rail freight transport must be balanced , fully taking into account the external costs of transport in order to achieve the objectives of the european green deal. many obstacles remain to achieve a true single european rail area , including in respect of the need to minimise noise. overcoming these obstacles together with cost reduction and accelerated innovation will allow rail to realise its full potential. rail therefore needs a further boost to become more attractive to travellers and businesses alike.


### (7) while the share of passenger rail in the union land transport has only slightly increased since 2007 , the share of freight has decreased. many obstacles remain to achieve a true single european rail area , including in respect of the need to minimise noise. overcoming these obstacles together with cost reduction and accelerated innovation will allow rail to realise its full potential. rail therefore needs a further boost to become more attractive to travellers and businesses alike. ### (7) while the share of passenger rail in the union land transport has only slightly increased since 2007 , the share of freight has decreased. the high cost of rail transport and the lack of simple connections and direct links has made rail services less attractive. many obstacles remain to achieve a true single european rail area , including in respect of the need to minimise noise. overcoming these obstacles together with cost reduction and accelerated innovation will allow rail to realise its full potential. rail therefore needs a further boost to become more attractive to travellers and businesses alike.


### promote rail as a sustainable , innovative and safe mode of transport , in particular by highlighting the role of rail as a game changer to help reaching the union’s climate neutrality objective by 2050 and by reaching out to the wider public , especially youth; ### promote rail as a sustainable , innovative and safe mode of transport and ensure regional-level mobility , in particular by highlighting the role of rail as a game changer to help reaching the union’s climate neutrality objective by 2050 and by reaching out to the wider public , especially youth;


### highlight the european , cross-border dimension of rail , that brings citizens closer together , allows them to explore the union in all its diversity , fosters cohesion and contributes to integrate the union internal market; ### highlight the european , cross-border dimension of rail , that brings citizens closer together , allows them to explore the union in all its diversity , completes missing links , fosters cohesion and contributes to integrate the union internal market;


### enhance the contribution of rail to union economy , industry and society , covering in particular aspects related to regional development , industrial competitiveness , sustainable tourism , innovation , employment , education , youth and culture , and improving accessibility for persons with disabilities; ### enhance the contribution of rail to union economy , industry and society , covering in particular aspects related to regional development , industrial competitiveness , sustainable tourism , innovation , employment , education , youth , culture and industrial cultural heritage , and improving accessibility for persons with disabilities;


### enhance the contribution of rail to union economy , industry and society , covering in particular aspects related to regional development , industrial competitiveness , sustainable tourism , innovation , employment , education , youth and culture , and improving accessibility for persons with disabilities; ### enhance the contribution of rail to union economy , industry and society , covering in particular aspects related to regional and rural development , industrial competitiveness , sustainable tourism , innovation , employment , education , youth and culture , and improving accessibility for persons with disabilities;


### initiatives and events to promote debate , raise awareness and facilitate citizens , businesses and public authorities' engagement to attract more people and goods to rail as a means to combat climate change , through multiple channels and tools , including events in member states; ### initiatives and events to promote debate , raise awareness and facilitate citizens , businesses and public authorities' engagement to improve railway travel conditions and attract more people and goods to rail as a means to combat climate change , through multiple channels and tools , including events in member states;


### information , exhibitions , inspiration , education and awareness-raising campaigns to encourage changes in passenger , consumer and business behaviour and to stimulate an active contribution of the general public to achieving the objectives of more sustainable transport; ### information campaigns on the current state and history of rail transport and its contribution to europe's industrial heritage; exhibitions , inspiration , education and awareness-raising campaigns to encourage changes in passenger , consumer and business behaviour and to stimulate an active contribution of the general public to achieving the objectives of more sustainable transport;


### information , exhibitions , inspiration , education and awareness-raising campaigns to encourage changes in passenger , consumer and business behaviour and to stimulate an active contribution of the general public to achieving the objectives of more sustainable transport; ### information , exhibitions , inspiration , education and awareness-raising campaigns to encourage changes in passenger , consumer and business behaviour , by involving the railway industry , and to stimulate an active contribution of the general public to achieving the objectives of more sustainable transport;


### the undertaking of studies and innovative activities and the dissemination of their results on a european or national scale; and ### the undertaking of studies and innovative activities and the dissemination of their results on a european , national and regional scale including on a european rail motorways network; and


### the promotion of projects and networks related to the european year , including via the media , social networks and other on-line communities. ### the promotion of interactive communication on projects and networks related to the european year , including via the media , social networks and other on-line communities.


### 1. the commission shall regularly convene meetings of the national coordinators in order to coordinate the running of the european year. those meetings shall also serve as opportunities to exchange information regarding the implementation of the european year at national and union level; representatives of the european parliament may participate in those meetings as observers. ### 1. the commission shall regularly convene meetings of the national coordinators , by involving local and regional players , in order to coordinate the running of the european year. those meetings shall also serve as opportunities to exchange information regarding the implementation of the european year at regional , national and union level; representatives of the european parliament may participate in those meetings as observers.


### (3) in its resolution of 15 january 202017 , the european parliament welcomed the commission’s communication on ‘the european green deal’ and called for the necessary transition to a climate-neutral society by 2050 at the latest. ### (3) in its resolution of 15 january 202017 , the european parliament welcomed the commission’s communication on ‘the european green deal’ and called for the necessary transition to a climate-neutral society by 2050.


### (8) in order to promote rail transport in line with the objectives set out in the commission communication on the european green deal , including with regard to sustainable and smart mobility , the year 2021 should be designated as european year of rail. 2021 will be an important year for the union rail policy , it will be the first full year where the rules agreed under the fourth railway package will be implemented throughout the union , namely on the opening of the market of domestic passenger services and on reducing costs and administrative burden for railway undertakings operating across the union. there is a growing public interest in railways , including in night trains , in a number of member states , as also illustrated by the popularity of #discovereu. moreover , the international arts festival ‘europalia’ will dedicate its 2021 edition to the influence of railways on the arts and highlight the role of rail as a powerful promotor of social , economic and industrial change. ### (8) in order to promote rail transport in line with the objectives set out in the commission communication on the european green deal , including with regard to sustainable and smart mobility , the year 2021 should be designated as european year of rail. 2021 will be an important year for the union rail policy , it will be the first full year where the rules agreed under the fourth railway package will be implemented throughout the union , namely on the opening of the market of domestic passenger services and on reducing costs and administrative burden for railway undertakings operating across the union. there is a growing public interest in railways , including in inter-regional and intra-regional connections and night trains , in a number of member states , as also illustrated by the popularity of #discovereu. moreover , the international arts festival ‘europalia’ will dedicate its 2021 edition to the influence of railways on the arts and highlight the role of rail as a powerful promotor of social , economic and industrial change.


### (2) the transition to a climate-neutral and circular economy constitutes one of the most important policy objectives for the union. on 12 december 2019 , the european council endorsed the objective of achieving a climate-neutral union by 2050 , in line with the objectives of the paris agreement. while fighting climate change and environmental degradation will benefit all in the long term and provides opportunities and challenges for all in the medium term , not all regions and member states start their transition from the same point or have the same capacity to respond. some are more advanced than others , whereas the transition entails a wider social and economic impact for those regions that rely heavily on fossil fuels - especially coal , lignite , peat and oil shale - or greenhouse gas intensive industries. such a situation not only creates the risk of a variable speed transition in the union as regards climate action , but also of growing disparities between regions , detrimental to the objectives of social , economic and territorial cohesion. ### (2) the transition to a climate-neutral and circular economy constitutes one of the most important policy objectives for the union. on 12 december 2019 , the european council endorsed the objective of achieving a climate-neutral union by 2050 , in line with the objectives of the paris agreement. while fighting climate change and environmental degradation will benefit all in the long term and provides opportunities and challenges for all in the medium term , not all regions and member states start their transition from the same point or have the same capacity to respond. some are more advanced than others , whereas the transition entails a wider social and economic impact for those regions that rely heavily on solid fossil fuels - especially coal , lignite , peat and oil shale - or greenhouse gas intensive industries. such a situation not only creates the risk of a variable speed transition in the union as regards climate action , but also of growing disparities between regions , detrimental to the objectives of social , economic and territorial cohesion.


### (2) the transition to a climate-neutral and circular economy constitutes one of the most important policy objectives for the union. on 12 december 2019 , the european council endorsed the objective of achieving a climate-neutral union by 2050 , in line with the objectives of the paris agreement. while fighting climate change and environmental degradation will benefit all in the long term and provides opportunities and challenges for all in the medium term , not all regions and member states start their transition from the same point or have the same capacity to respond. some are more advanced than others , whereas the transition entails a wider social and economic impact for those regions that rely heavily on fossil fuels - especially coal , lignite , peat and oil shale - or greenhouse gas intensive industries. such a situation not only creates the risk of a variable speed transition in the union as regards climate action , but also of growing disparities between regions , detrimental to the objectives of social , economic and territorial cohesion. ### (2) the transition to a climate-neutral and circular economy constitutes one of the most important policy objectives for the union. on 12 december 2019 , the european council endorsed the objective of achieving a climate-neutral union by 2050 , in line with the objectives of the paris agreement. to reach these goals , it is crucial to ensure that the benchmarks and indicators for measuring progress of programmes financed under jtf are at the right ambition level to reach the target. this requires non-linear , exponential improvements in transition efforts and a science-based back-casting approach to raise the ambition level to avoid sunk investments and lock in effects in the economy. while fighting climate change and environmental degradation will benefit all in the long term and provides opportunities and challenges for all in the medium term , not all regions and member states start their transition from the same point or have the same capacity to respond. some are more advanced than others , whereas the transition entails a wider social and economic impact for those regions that rely heavily on fossil fuels - especially coal , lignite , peat and oil shale - or greenhouse gas intensive industries. such a situation not only creates the risk of a variable speed transition in the union as regards climate action , but also of growing disparities between regions , detrimental to the objectives of social , economic and territorial cohesion.


### (2) the transition to a climate-neutral and circular economy constitutes one of the most important policy objectives for the union. on 12 december 2019 , the european council endorsed the objective of achieving a climate-neutral union by 2050 , in line with the objectives of the paris agreement. while fighting climate change and environmental degradation will benefit all in the long term and provides opportunities and challenges for all in the medium term , not all regions and member states start their transition from the same point or have the same capacity to respond. some are more advanced than others , whereas the transition entails a wider social and economic impact for those regions that rely heavily on fossil fuels - especially coal , lignite , peat and oil shale - or greenhouse gas intensive industries. such a situation not only creates the risk of a variable speed transition in the union as regards climate action , but also of growing disparities between regions , detrimental to the objectives of social , economic and territorial cohesion. ### (2) the transition to a sustainable , climate-neutral and circular economy constitutes one of the most important policy objectives for the union. on 12 december 2019 , the european council endorsed the objective of achieving a climate-neutral union by 2050 , in line with the objectives of the paris agreement. while fighting climate change and environmental degradation will benefit all in the long term and provides opportunities and challenges for all in the medium term , not all regions and member states start their transition from the same point or have the same capacity to respond. some are more advanced than others , whereas the energy transition entails a wider social and economic impact for those regions that rely heavily on solid fossil fuels - especially coal , lignite , peat and oil shale - or greenhouse gas intensive industries. such a situation not only creates the risk of a variable speed transition in the union as regards climate action , but also of growing disparities between regions , detrimental to the objectives of social , economic and territorial cohesion. member states should be given the necessary time to achieve the best possible results in lines with the eu target for carbon neutrality by 2050 , and to prevent regions from being left behind.


### (2) the transition to a climate-neutral and circular economy constitutes one of the most important policy objectives for the union. on 12 december 2019 , the european council endorsed the objective of achieving a climate-neutral union by 2050 , in line with the objectives of the paris agreement. while fighting climate change and environmental degradation will benefit all in the long term and provides opportunities and challenges for all in the medium term , not all regions and member states start their transition from the same point or have the same capacity to respond. some are more advanced than others , whereas the transition entails a wider social and economic impact for those regions that rely heavily on fossil fuels - especially coal , lignite , peat and oil shale - or greenhouse gas intensive industries. such a situation not only creates the risk of a variable speed transition in the union as regards climate action , but also of growing disparities between regions , detrimental to the objectives of social , economic and territorial cohesion. ### (2) the transition to a climate-neutral and circular economy constitutes one of the most important policy objectives for the union. on 12 december 2019 , the european council endorsed the objective of achieving a climate-neutral union by 2050 , in line with the objectives of the paris agreement. this will require significant new investment , particularly in new and innovative technologies. while fighting climate change and environmental degradation will benefit all in the long term and provides opportunities and challenges for all in the medium term , not all regions and member states start their transition from the same point or have the same capacity to respond. some are more advanced than others , whereas the transition entails a wider social and economic impact for those regions that rely heavily on fossil fuels - especially coal , lignite , peat and oil shale - or greenhouse gas intensive industries. such a situation not only creates the risk of a variable speed transition in the union as regards climate action , but also of growing disparities between regions , detrimental to the objectives of social , economic and territorial cohesion.


### (7) the resources from the jtf should complement the resources available under cohesion policy. ### (7) the resources from the jtf should complement the resources available under cohesion policy. the establishment of the jtf should not lead to cuts to , or transfers from , the funds covered by regulation (eu) .../... [new cpr].


### (7) the resources from the jtf should complement the resources available under cohesion policy. ### (7) the resources from the jtf should complement the resources available under cohesion policy and other public funds made available by all member states.


### (8) transitioning to a climate-neutral economy is a challenge for all member states. it will be particularly demanding for those member states that rely heavily on fossil fuels or greenhouse gas intensive industrial activities which need to be phased out or which need to adapt due to the transition towards climate neutrality and that lack the financial means to do so. the jtf should therefore cover all member states , but the distribution of its financial means should reflect the capacity of member states to finance the necessary investments to cope with the transition towards climate neutrality. ### (8) transitioning to a climate-neutral economy is a challenge for all member states. it will be particularly demanding for those member states that rely heavily on fossil fuels or greenhouse gas intensive industrial activities which need to be phased out or which need to adapt due to the transition towards climate neutrality and that lack the financial means to do so. particular attention should be paid in that regard to insular or remote areas whose small population make the transition in energy towards climate neutrality more difficult to implement. the jtf should therefore cover all member states , but the distribution of its financial means should reflect the capacity of member states to finance the necessary investments to cope with the transition towards climate neutrality.


### (8) transitioning to a climate-neutral economy is a challenge for all member states. it will be particularly demanding for those member states that rely heavily on fossil fuels or greenhouse gas intensive industrial activities which need to be phased out or which need to adapt due to the transition towards climate neutrality and that lack the financial means to do so. the jtf should therefore cover all member states , but the distribution of its financial means should reflect the capacity of member states to finance the necessary investments to cope with the transition towards climate neutrality. ### (8) transitioning to a climate-neutral economy is a challenge for all member states. it will be particularly demanding for those member states that rely heavily on fossil fuels or greenhouse gas intensive industrial activities which need to be phased out or which need to adapt due to the transition towards climate neutrality and that lack the financial means , alternative natural resources and skilled workforce to do so. the jtf should therefore cover all member states , but the distribution of its financial means should reflect the capacity of member states to finance the necessary investments to cope with the transition towards climate neutrality.


### (8) transitioning to a climate-neutral economy is a challenge for all member states. it will be particularly demanding for those member states that rely heavily on fossil fuels or greenhouse gas intensive industrial activities which need to be phased out or which need to adapt due to the transition towards climate neutrality and that lack the financial means to do so. the jtf should therefore cover all member states , but the distribution of its financial means should reflect the capacity of member states to finance the necessary investments to cope with the transition towards climate neutrality. ### (8) transitioning to a climate-neutral economy is a challenge for all member states. it will be particularly demanding for those member states that rely heavily on solid fossil fuels or greenhouse gas intensive industrial activities which need to be phased out or which need to adapt due to the transition towards climate neutrality and that lack the financial means to do so. the jtf should therefore cover all member states , but the distribution of its financial means should reflect the capacity of member states to finance the necessary investments to cope with the transition towards climate neutrality.


### (10) this regulation identifies types of investments for which expenditure may be supported by the jtf. all supported activities should be pursued in full respect of the climate and environmental priorities of the union. the list of investments should include those that support local economies and are sustainable in the long-term , taking into account all the objectives of the green deal. the projects financed should contribute to a transition to a climate-neutral and circular economy. for declining sectors , such as energy production based on coal , lignite , peat and oil shale or extraction activities for these solid fossil fuels , support should be linked to the phasing out of the activity and the corresponding reduction in the employment level. as regards transforming sectors with high greenhouse gas emission levels , support should promote new activities through the deployment of new technologies , new processes or products , leading to significant emission reduction , in line with the eu 2030 climate objectives and eu climate neutrality by 205013 while maintaining and enhancing employment and avoiding environmental degradation. particular attention should also be given to activities enhancing innovation and research in advanced and sustainable technologies , as well as in the fields of digitalisation and connectivity , provided that such measures help mitigate the negative side effects of a transition towards , and contribute to , a climate-neutral and circular economy. ### (10) this regulation identifies types of investments for which expenditure may be supported by the jtf. all supported activities should be pursued in full respect of the climate and environmental priorities of the union. the list of investments should include those that support local and regional economies and are sustainable in the long-term , taking into account all the objectives of the green deal. the projects financed should contribute to a transition to a climate-neutral and circular economy. for declining sectors , such as energy production based on coal , lignite , peat and oil shale or extraction activities for these solid fossil fuels , support should be linked to the phasing out of the activity and the corresponding reduction in the employment level. as regards transforming sectors with high greenhouse gas emission levels , support should promote new activities through the deployment of new technologies , new processes or products , leading to significant emission reduction , in line with the eu 2030 climate objectives and eu climate neutrality by 205013 while maintaining and enhancing employment and avoiding environmental degradation. particular attention should also be given to activities enhancing innovation and research in advanced and sustainable technologies , as well as in the fields of digitalisation and connectivity , provided that such measures help mitigate the negative side effects of a transition towards , and contribute to , a climate-neutral and circular economy.


### (11) to protect citizens who are most vulnerable to the climate transition , the jtf should also cover the up-skilling and reskilling of the affected workers , with the aim of helping them to adapt to new employment opportunities , as well as providing job-search assistance to jobseekers and their active inclusion into the labour market. ### (11) to protect citizens who are most vulnerable to the climate transition , the jtf should also cover the up-skilling and reskilling of the affected workers , with the aim of helping them to adapt to new employment opportunities , as well as providing job-search assistance to jobseekers and their active and full inclusion into the labour market.


### (12) in order to enhance the economic diversification of territories impacted by the transition , the jtf should provide support to productive investment in smes. productive investment should be understood as investment in fixed capital or immaterial assets of enterprises in view of producing goods and services thereby contributing to gross-capital formation and employment. for enterprises other than smes , productive investments should only be supported if they are necessary for mitigating job losses resulting from the transition , by creating or protecting a significant number of jobs and they do not lead to or result from relocation. investments in existing industrial facilities , including those covered by the union emissions trading system , should be allowed if they contribute to the transition to a climate-neutral economy by 2050 and go substantially below the relevant benchmarks established for free allocation under directive 2003/87/ec of the european parliament and of the council14and if they result in the protection of a significant number of jobs. any such investment should be justified accordingly in the relevant territorial just transition plan. in order to protect the integrity of the internal market and cohesion policy , support to undertakings should comply with union state aid rules as set out in articles 107 and 108 tfeu and , in particular , support to productive investments by enterprises other than smes should be limited to enterprises located in areas designated as assisted areas for the purposes of points (a) and (c) of article 107(3) tfeu. ### (12) in order to enhance the economic diversification of territories impacted by the transition , the jtf should provide support to productive investment in smes. productive investment should be understood as investment in fixed capital or immaterial assets of enterprises in view of producing goods and services thereby contributing to gross-capital formation and employment. for enterprises other than smes , productive investments should only be supported if they are necessary for mitigating job losses resulting from the transition , by creating or protecting a significant number of jobs and they do not lead to or result from relocation. investments in existing industrial facilities , including those covered by the union emissions trading system , should be allowed if they contribute to the transition to a climate-neutral economy by 2050 and go substantially below the relevant benchmarks established for free allocation under directive 2003/87/ec of the european parliament and of the council14 and if they result in the protection of a significant number of jobs. any such investment should be justified accordingly in the relevant territorial just transition plan. in order to protect the integrity of the internal market and cohesion policy , support to undertakings should comply with union state aid rules as set out in articles 107 and 108 tfeu , paying particular account to the ensuing structural changes and the measures required for these changes. that exception should allow support for the economic development of areas where the standard of living is excessively low or where there is serious underemployment , and of the outermost regions , in view of their structural , economic and social situation.


### (12) in order to enhance the economic diversification of territories impacted by the transition , the jtf should provide support to productive investment in smes. productive investment should be understood as investment in fixed capital or immaterial assets of enterprises in view of producing goods and services thereby contributing to gross-capital formation and employment. for enterprises other than smes , productive investments should only be supported if they are necessary for mitigating job losses resulting from the transition , by creating or protecting a significant number of jobs and they do not lead to or result from relocation. investments in existing industrial facilities , including those covered by the union emissions trading system , should be allowed if they contribute to the transition to a climate-neutral economy by 2050 and go substantially below the relevant benchmarks established for free allocation under directive 2003/87/ec of the european parliament and of the council14 and if they result in the protection of a significant number of jobs. any such investment should be justified accordingly in the relevant territorial just transition plan. in order to protect the integrity of the internal market and cohesion policy , support to undertakings should comply with union state aid rules as set out in articles 107 and 108 tfeu and , in particular , support to productive investments by enterprises other than smes should be limited to enterprises located in areas designated as assisted areas for the purposes of points (a) and (c) of article 107(3) tfeu. ### (12) in order to enhance the economic diversification of territories impacted by the transition , the jtf should provide support to productive investment in smes. investment should be understood as financial support in fixed capital or immaterial assets of enterprises in view of producing goods and services thereby contributing to gross-capital formation and employment. for enterprises other than smes , investments should only be supported if they are necessary for mitigating job losses resulting from the transition , by creating or protecting a significant number of jobs and they do not lead to or result from relocation. investments in existing industrial facilities , including those covered by the union emissions trading system , should be allowed if they contribute to the transition to a climate-neutral economy by 2050 and go substantially below the relevant benchmarks established for free allocation under directive 2003/87/ec of the european parliament and of the council14 and if they result in the protection of a significant number of jobs. any such investment should be justified accordingly in the relevant territorial just transition plan. in order to protect the integrity of the internal market and cohesion policy , support to undertakings should comply with union state aid rules as set out in articles 107 and 108 tfeu and , in particular , support to investments by enterprises other than smes should be limited to enterprises located in areas designated as assisted areas for the purposes of points (a) and (c) of article 107(3) tfeu.


### (14) the jtf support should be conditional on the effective implementation of a transition process in a specific territory in order to achieve a climate-neutral economy. in that regard , member states should prepare , in cooperation with the relevant stakeholders and supported by the commission , territorial just transition plans , detailing the transition process , consistently with their national energy and climate plans. to this end , the commission should set up a just transition platform , which would build on the existing platform for coal regions in transition to enable bilateral and multilateral exchanges of experience on lessons learnt and best practices across all affected sectors. ### (14) the jtf support should be conditional on the effective implementation of a transition process in a specific territory in order to achieve a climate-neutral economy. in that regard , member states should prepare , in cooperation with the relevant stakeholders and supported by the commission , territorial just transition plans , detailing the transition process , consistently with their national energy and climate plans. to this end , the commission will set up a just transition platform , which would build on the existing platform for coal regions in transition to enable bilateral and multilateral exchanges of experience on lessons learnt and best practices across all affected sectors , but to monitor the transition process , as well.


### (15) the territorial just transition plans should identify the territories most negatively affected , where jtf support should be concentrated and describe specific actions to be undertaken to reach a climate-neutral economy , notably as regards the conversion or closure of facilities involving fossil fuel production or other greenhouse gas intensive activities. those territories should be precisely defined and correspond to nuts level 3 regions or should be parts thereof. the plans should detail the challenges and needs of those territories and identify the type of operations needed in a manner that ensures the coherent development of climate-resilient economic activities that are also consistent with the transition to climate-neutrality and the objectives of the green deal. only investments in accordance with the transition plans should receive financial support from the jtf. the territorial just transition plans should be part of the programmes (supported by the erdf , the esf+ , the cohesion fund or the jtf , as the case may be) which are approved by the commission. ### (15) the territorial just transition plans should identify the territories most negatively affected , where jtf support should be concentrated and describe specific actions to be undertaken to reach a climate-neutral economy , notably as regards the conversion or closure of facilities involving fossil fuel production or other greenhouse gas intensive activities , while maintaining and expanding employment opportunities in the affected areas , in order to avoid social exclusion. those territories should be precisely defined and correspond to nuts level 3 regions or should be parts thereof. the plans should detail the challenges and needs of those territories and identify the type of operations needed in a manner that ensures the coherent development of climate-resilient economic activities that are also consistent with the transition to climate-neutrality and the objectives of the green deal. only investments in accordance with the transition plans should receive financial support from the jtf. the territorial just transition plans should be part of the programmes (supported by the erdf , the esf+ , the cohesion fund or the jtf , as the case may be) which are approved by the commission.


### (15) the territorial just transition plans should identify the territories most negatively affected , where jtf support should be concentrated and describe specific actions to be undertaken to reach a climate-neutral economy , notably as regards the conversion or closure of facilities involving fossil fuel production or other greenhouse gas intensive activities. those territories should be precisely defined and correspond to nuts level 3 regions or should be parts thereof. the plans should detail the challenges and needs of those territories and identify the type of operations needed in a manner that ensures the coherent development of climate-resilient economic activities that are also consistent with the transition to climate-neutrality and the objectives of the green deal. only investments in accordance with the transition plans should receive financial support from the jtf. the territorial just transition plans should be part of the programmes (supported by the erdf , the esf+ , the cohesion fund or the jtf , as the case may be) which are approved by the commission. ### (15) the territorial just transition plans should identify the territories most negatively affected , where jtf support should be concentrated and describe specific actions to be undertaken to reach a climate-neutral economy , notably as regards the conversion or closure of facilities involving solid fossil fuel production or other greenhouse gas intensive activities. those territories should be precisely defined and correspond to nuts level 3 regions or should be parts thereof. the plans should detail the challenges and needs of those territories and identify the type of operations needed in a manner that ensures the coherent development of climate-resilient economic activities that are also consistent with the transition to climate-neutrality and the objectives of the green deal. only investments in accordance with the transition plans should receive financial support from the jtf. the territorial just transition plans should be part of the programmes (supported by the erdf , the esf+ , the cohesion fund or the jtf , as the case may be) which are approved by the commission.


### (15) the territorial just transition plans should identify the territories most negatively affected , where jtf support should be concentrated and describe specific actions to be undertaken to reach a climate-neutral economy , notably as regards the conversion or closure of facilities involving fossil fuel production or other greenhouse gas intensive activities. those territories should be precisely defined and correspond to nuts level 3 regions or should be parts thereof. the plans should detail the challenges and needs of those territories and identify the type of operations needed in a manner that ensures the coherent development of climate-resilient economic activities that are also consistent with the transition to climate-neutrality and the objectives of the green deal. only investments in accordance with the transition plans should receive financial support from the jtf. the territorial just transition plans should be part of the programmes (supported by the erdf , the esf+ , the cohesion fund or the jtf , as the case may be) which are approved by the commission. ### (15) the territorial just transition plans should identify the territories most negatively affected , where jtf support should be concentrated and describe specific actions to be undertaken to reach a climate-neutral economy , notably as regards the conversion or closure of facilities involving fossil fuel production or other greenhouse gas intensive activities , whilst maintaining and expanding employment opportunities in the affected territories in order to sustain inclusive growth. those territories should be precisely defined and correspond to nuts level 3 regions or should be parts thereof. the plans should detail the challenges and needs of those territories and identify the type of operations needed in a manner that ensures the coherent development of climate-resilient economic activities that are also consistent with the transition to climate-neutrality and the objectives of the green deal. only investments in accordance with the transition plans should receive financial support from the jtf. the territorial just transition plans should be part of the separate programmes (supported by the erdf , the esf+ , the cohesion fund or the jtf , as the case may be) which are approved by the commission.