### when the processing of electronic communications data by providers of electronic communications services falls within its scope , this regulation should provide for the possibility for the union or member states under specific conditions to restrict by law certain obligations and rights when such a restriction constitutes a necessary and proportionate measure in a democratic society to safeguard specific public interests , including national security , defence , public security and the prevention , investigation , detection or prosecution of criminal offences or the execution of criminal penalties , including the safeguarding against and the prevention of threats to public security and other important objectives of general public interest of the union or of a member state , in particular an important economic or financial interest of the union or of a member state , or a monitoring , inspection or regulatory function connected to the exercise of official authority for such interests . therefore , this regulation should not affect the ability of member states to carry out lawful interception of electronic communications or take other measures , if necessary and proportionate to safeguard the public interests mentioned above , in accordance with the charter of fundamental rights of the european union and the european convention for the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms , as interpreted by the court of justice of the european union and of the european court of human rights . providers of electronic communications services should provide for appropriate procedures to facilitate legitimate requests of competent authorities , where relevant also taking into account the role of the representative designated pursuant to article 3 . ### when the processing of electronic communications data by providers of electronic communications services falls within its scope , this regulation should provide for the possibility for the union or member states under specific conditions to restrict by law certain obligations and rights when such a restriction constitutes a necessary and proportionate measure in a democratic society to safeguard specific public interests , including national security , defence , public security and the prevention , investigation , detection or prosecution of criminal offences or the execution of criminal penalties , including the safeguarding against and the prevention of threats to public security and other important objectives of general public interest of the union or of a member state , in particular an important economic or financial interest of the union or of a member state , or a monitoring , inspection or regulatory function connected to the exercise of official authority for such interests . therefore , this regulation should not affect the ability of member states to carry out lawful interception of electronic communications or take other measures , if necessary and proportionate to safeguard the public interests mentioned above , in accordance with the charter of fundamental rights of the european union and the european convention for the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms , as interpreted by the court of justice of the european union and of the european court of human rights . providers of electronic communications services should provide for appropriate procedures to facilitate legitimate requests of competent authorities , where relevant also taking into account the role of the representative designated pursuant to article 27 of regulation 2016 / 679 .


### the independent supervisory authority or authorities responsible for monitoring the application of regulation 2016 / 679 shall also be responsible for monitoring the application of this regulation . chapter vi and vii of regulation 2016 / 679 shall apply mutatis mutandis . the tasks and powers of the supervisory authorities shall be exercised with regard to end - users . ### each member state shall provide that one or more independent public authorities are responsible for monitoring the application of this regulation . chapter vi and vii of regulation 2016 / 679 shall apply mutatis mutandis . the tasks and powers of the supervisory authorities shall be exercised with regard to end - users .


### the principles of data protection by design and by default were codified under article 25 of regulation 2016 / 679 . currently , the default settings for cookies are set in most current browsers to ‘ accept all cookies’ . therefore providers of software enabling the retrieval and presentation of information on the internet should have an obligation to configure the software so that it offers the option to prevent third parties from storing information on the terminal equipment ; this is often presented as ‘ reject third party cookies’ . end - users should be offered a set of privacy setting options , ranging from higher to lower and intermediate . such privacy settings should be presented in a an easily visible and intelligible manner . ### the principles of data protection by design and by default were codified under article 25 of regulation 2016 / 679 . providers of software enabling electronic communication , including the retrieval and presentation of information on the internet , should have an obligation to pre - set the software in such a way as to offer end - users the highest level of protection of their privacy and , in particular , prevent third parties from storing information on the terminal equipment ; end - users may be offered a set of privacy setting options , ranging from intermediate to lower protection . such privacy settings should come with a warning about the risks associated with lowering the level of protection and be presented in a an easily visible and intelligible manner .


### the providers of publicly available directories shall obtain the consent of end - users who are natural persons to include their personal data in the directory and , consequently , shall obtain consent from these end - users for inclusion of data per category of personal data , to the extent that such data are relevant for the purpose of the directory as determined by the provider of the directory . providers shall give end - users who are natural persons the means to verify , correct and delete such data . ### the providers of electronic information , communications and telecommunications services shall collect the data of end - users who are natural persons in order to include their personal data in publicly accessible directories . they shall give end - users that are natural persons the right to object to data related to them being included in directories . &#160 ; providers shall give end - users who are natural persons the means to verify , correct , update , supplement and delete such data .


### the processing of electronic communications data can be useful for businesses , consumers and society as a whole . vis - à - vis directive 2002 / 58 / ec , this regulation broadens the possibilities for providers of electronic communications services to process electronic communications metadata , based on end - users consent . however , end - users attach great importance to the confidentiality of their communications , including their online activities , and that they want to control the use of electronic communications data for purposes other than conveying the communication . therefore , this regulation should require providers of electronic communications services to obtain end - users ' consent to process electronic communications metadata , which should include data on the location of the device generated for the purposes of granting and maintaining access and connection to the service . location data that is generated other than in the context of providing electronic communications services should not be considered as metadata . examples of commercial usages of electronic communications metadata by providers of electronic communications services may include the provision of heatmaps ; a graphical representation of data using colors to indicate the presence of individuals . to display the traffic movements in certain directions during a certain period of time , an identifier is necessary to link the positions of individuals at certain time intervals . this identifier would be missing if anonymous data were to be used and such movement could not be displayed . such usage of electronic communications metadata could , for example , benefit public authorities and public transport operators to define where to develop new infrastructure , based on the usage of and pressure on the existing structure . where a type of processing of electronic communications metadata , in particular using new technologies , and taking into account the nature , scope , context and purposes of the processing , is likely to result in a high risk to the rights and freedoms of natural persons , a data protection impact assessment and , as the case may be , a consultation of the supervisory authority should take place prior to the processing , in accordance with articles 35 and 36 of regulation 2016 / 679 . ### the processing of electronic communications data can be useful for businesses , consumers and society as a whole . vis - à - vis directive 2002 / 58 / ec , this regulation broadens the possibilities for providers of electronic communications services to process electronic communications metadata in accordance with regulation 2016 / 679 . however , end - users attach great importance to the confidentiality of their communications , including their online activities , and that they want to control the use of electronic communications data for purposes other than conveying the communication . therefore , this regulation should require providers of electronic communications services to comply with regulation 2016 / 679 when processing electronic communications metadata , which should include data on the location of the device generated for the purposes of granting and maintaining access and connection to the service . location data that is generated other than in the context of providing electronic communications services should not be considered as metadata . examples of commercial usages of electronic communications metadata by providers of electronic communications services may include the provision of heatmaps ; a graphical representation of data using colours to indicate the presence of individuals . to display the traffic movements in certain directions during a certain period of time , an identifier is necessary to link the positions of individuals at certain time intervals . this identifier would be missing if anonymous data were to be used and such movement could not be displayed . such usage of electronic communications metadata could , for example , benefit public authorities and public transport operators to define where to develop new infrastructure , based on the usage of and pressure on the existing structure .


### connected devices and machines increasingly communicate with each other by using electronic communications networks . the transmission of machine - to - machine communications involves the conveyance of signals over a network and , hence , usually constitutes an electronic communications service . in order to ensure full protection of the rights to privacy and confidentiality of communications , and to promote a trusted and secure internet of things in the digital single market , it is necessary to clarify that this regulation should apply to the transmission of machine - to - machine communications . therefore , the principle of confidentiality enshrined in this regulation should also apply to the transmission of machine - to - machine communications . specific safeguards could also be adopted under sectorial legislation , as for instance directive 2014 / 53 / eu . ### connected devices and machines increasingly communicate with each other by using electronic communications networks . the transmission of machine - to - machine communications involves the conveyance of signals over a network and , hence , it may constitute a publicly available electronic communications service . in such cases , in order to ensure full protection of the rights to privacy and confidentiality of communications , and to promote a trusted and secure internet of things in the digital single market , it is necessary to clarify that this regulation and the principle of confidentiality hereby enshrined should apply to the transmission of machine - to - machine communications . this regulation should not apply to machine - to - machine communications not provided as a service which targets the general population .


### the principles of data protection by design and by default were codified under article 25 of regulation 2016 / 679 . currently , the default settings for cookies are set in most current browsers to ‘ accept all cookies’ . therefore providers of software enabling the retrieval and presentation of information on the internet should have an obligation to configure the software so that it offers the option to prevent third parties from storing information on the terminal equipment ; this is often presented as ‘ reject third party cookies’ . end - users should be offered a set of privacy setting options , ranging from higher to lower and intermediate . such privacy settings should be presented in a an easily visible and intelligible manner . ### the principles of data protection by design and by default were codified under article 25 of regulation 2016 / 679 . currently , the default settings for cookies are set in most current browsers to ' accept all cookies ' . therefore providers of software enabling the retrieval and presentation of information on the internet should have an obligation to inform the end - user about the possibility to express his or her consent using appropriate technical settings . the end - user should be offered multiple options to choose from , including to prevent third parties from storing information on the terminal equipment . end - users should be offered a set of privacy setting options , ranging from , for example , rejecting tracking that is not necessary for the functionality of the website or other software to , for example , accepting tracking necessary for the functionality of the website or other software as well as for other purposes or , for example , accepting tracking necessary for the functionality of the website or other software and tracking for other purposes by parties that demonstrate the compliance with the eu data protection and privacy legislation , for instance in line with article 40 and 42 of regulation 2016 / 679 . such privacy settings should be presented in an easily visible and intelligible manner .


### the development of fast and efficient wireless technologies has fostered the increasing availability for the public of internet access via wireless networks accessible by anyone in public and semi - private spaces such as ' hotspots ' situated at different places within a city , department stores , shopping malls and hospitals . to the extent that those communications networks are provided to an undefined group of end - users , the confidentiality of the communications transmitted through such networks should be protected . the fact that wireless electronic communications services may be ancillary to other services should not stand in the way of ensuring the protection of confidentiality of communications data and application of this regulation . therefore , this regulation should apply to electronic communications data using electronic communications services and public communications networks . in contrast , this regulation should not apply to closed groups of end - users such as corporate networks , access to which is limited to members of the corporation . ### the development of fast and efficient wireless technologies has fostered the increasing availability for the public of internet access via wireless networks accessible by anyone in public and semi - private spaces such as ' hotspots ' situated at different places within a city , department stores , shopping malls and hospitals . to the extent that those communications networks are provided to an undefined group of end - users , the confidentiality of the communications transmitted through such networks should be protected . therefore , this regulation should apply to electronic communications data using electronic communications services which are targeting the general public , and public communications networks . this regulation should not apply to closed groups of end - users such as corporate networks . such networks are offered to a defined group of end - users . however , even if undefined end - users use the network in question in the context of the activities of the defined group of end - users it should not preclude them from being considered outside the material scope of the regulation . for example , an enterprise’s collaboration platform primarily used by its employees that allows third parties to call - in or otherwise engage in the workspace should not be covered .


### in the case of software which has already been installed on 25 may 2018 , the requirements under paragraphs 1 and 2 shall be complied with at the time of the first update of the software , but no later than 25 august 2018 . ### in the case of software which has already been installed on 25 may 2018 , the requirements under paragraph 1 shall have been complied with .


### permitted processing of electronic communications data ### lawful processing of electronic communications data


### safeguards should be provided to protect end - users against unsolicited communications for direct marketing purposes , which intrude into the private life of end - users . the degree of privacy intrusion and nuisance is considered relatively similar independently of the wide range of technologies and channels used to conduct these electronic communications , whether using automated calling and communication systems , instant messaging applications , emails , sms , mms , bluetooth , etc . it is therefore justified to require that consent of the end - user is obtained before commercial electronic communications for direct marketing purposes are sent to end - users in order to effectively protect individuals against the intrusion into their private life as well as the legitimate interest of legal persons . legal certainty and the need to ensure that the rules protecting against unsolicited electronic communications remain future - proof justify the need to define a single set of rules that do not vary according to the technology used to convey these unsolicited communications , while at the same time guaranteeing an equivalent level of protection for all citizens throughout the union . however , it is reasonable to allow the use of e - mail contact details within the context of an existing customer relationship for the offering of similar products or services . such possibility should only apply to the same company that has obtained the electronic contact details in accordance with regulation 2016 / 679 . ### safeguards should be provided to protect consumers against unsolicited communications for direct marketing purposes , which intrude into the private life of consumers . the degree of privacy intrusion and nuisance is considered relatively similar independently of the wide range of technologies and channels used to conduct these electronic communications , whether using automated calling and communication systems , instant messaging applications , emails , sms , mms , bluetooth , etc . it is therefore justified to require that consent of the consumers is obtained before commercial electronic communications for direct marketing purposes are sent to consumers in order to effectively protect individuals against the intrusion into their private life . legal certainty and the need to ensure that the rules protecting against unsolicited electronic communications remain future - proof justify the need to define a single set of rules that do not vary according to the technology used to convey these unsolicited communications , while at the same time guaranteeing an equivalent level of protection for all citizens throughout the union . however , it is reasonable to allow the use of e - mail contact details within the context of an existing customer relationship for the offering of similar products or services . such possibility should only apply to the same company that has obtained the electronic contact details in accordance with regulation 2016 / 679 .


### this regulation applies to the processing of electronic communications data carried out in connection with the provision and the use of electronic communications services and to information related to the terminal equipment of end - users . ### this regulation applies to the processing of electronic communications data carried out in connection with the provision and the use of electronic communications services .


### this regulation ensures free movement of electronic communications data and electronic communications services within the union , which shall be neither restricted nor prohibited for reasons related to the respect for the private life and communications of natural and legal persons and the protection of natural persons with regard to the processing of personal data . ### this regulation ensures free movement of electronic communications data and electronic communications services within the union .


### it is necessary to maintain or restore the security of electronic communications networks and services , or detect technical faults and / or errors in the transmission of electronic communications , for the duration necessary for that purpose . ### it is necessary to maintain or restore the security or availability of electronic communications networks and services , or detect technical faults and / or errors in the transmission of electronic communications , for the duration necessary for that purpose .


### it is necessary to achieve the transmission of the communication , for the duration necessary for that purpose ; or ### it is necessary to achieve the transmission of the communication , for the duration necessary for that purpose ; or it is necessary for providing an electronic communications service requested by the consumer .


### safeguards should be provided to protect end - users against unsolicited communications for direct marketing purposes , which intrude into the private life of end - users . the degree of privacy intrusion and nuisance is considered relatively similar independently of the wide range of technologies and channels used to conduct these electronic communications , whether using automated calling and communication systems , instant messaging applications , emails , sms , mms , bluetooth , etc . it is therefore justified to require that consent of the end - user is obtained before commercial electronic communications for direct marketing purposes are sent to end - users in order to effectively protect individuals against the intrusion into their private life as well as the legitimate interest of legal persons . legal certainty and the need to ensure that the rules protecting against unsolicited electronic communications remain future - proof justify the need to define a single set of rules that do not vary according to the technology used to convey these unsolicited communications , while at the same time guaranteeing an equivalent level of protection for all citizens throughout the union . however , it is reasonable to allow the use of e - mail contact details within the context of an existing customer relationship for the offering of similar products or services . such possibility should only apply to the same company that has obtained the electronic contact details in accordance with regulation 2016 / 679 . ### safeguards should be provided to protect end - users against unsolicited communications for direct marketing purposes , which intrude into the private life of end - users . the degree of privacy intrusion and nuisance is considered relatively similar independently of the wide range of technologies and channels used to conduct these electronic communications , whether using automated calling and communication systems , instant messaging applications , emails , sms , mms , bluetooth , etc . it is therefore justified to require that consent of the end - user is obtained before commercial electronic communications for direct marketing purposes are sent to end - users in order to effectively protect individuals against the intrusion into their private life as well as the legitimate interest of legal persons . legal certainty and the need to ensure that the rules protecting against unsolicited electronic communications remain future - proof justify the need to define a single set of rules that do not vary according to the technology used to convey these unsolicited communications , while at the same time guaranteeing an equivalent level of protection for all citizens throughout the union . however , it is reasonable to allow the use of e - mail contact details within the context of an existing customer relationship for the offering of products or services . such possibility should only apply to the same company that has obtained the electronic contact details in accordance with regulation 2016 / 679 .


### exceptions to the obligation to obtain consent to make use of the processing and storage capabilities of terminal equipment or to access information stored in terminal equipment should be limited to situations that involve no , or only very limited , intrusion of privacy . for instance , consent should not be requested for authorizing the technical storage or access which is strictly necessary and proportionate for the legitimate purpose of enabling the use of a specific service explicitly requested by the end - user . this may include the storing of cookies for the duration of a single established session on a website to keep track of the end - user’s input when filling in online forms over several pages . cookies can also be a legitimate and useful tool , for example , in measuring web traffic to a website . information society providers that engage in configuration checking to provide the service in compliance with the end - user ' s settings and the mere logging of the fact that the end - user’s device is unable to receive content requested by the end - user should not constitute access to such a device or use of the device processing capabilities . ### exceptions to the obligation to obtain consent to store information in terminal equipment or to access information stored in terminal equipment should be limited to situations that comply with all obligations pursuant to regulation 2016 / 679 . for instance , the technical storage or access which is strictly necessary and proportionate for the legitimate purpose of enabling the use of a service requested by the consumer . this may include the storing of cookies for the duration of a single established session on a website to keep track of the consumer ' s input when filling in online forms over several pages . cookies can also be a legitimate and useful tool , for example , in measuring web traffic to a website . similarly , providers of terminal equipment and the software needed to operate such equipment regularly need access to configuration and other device information and the processing and storage capabilities to maintain the equipment , prevent security vulnerabilities or their exploitation and correct problems related to the equipment ' s operation . information society providers and electronic communications service providers that engage in configuration checking to provide the service in compliance with the consumer ' s settings and the mere logging of the fact that the consumer ' s device is unable to receive content requested by the consumer should not constitute access to such a device or use of the device processing capabilities .


### the use of processing and storage capabilities of terminal equipment and the collection of information from end - users ' terminal equipment , including about its software and hardware , other than by the end - user concerned shall be prohibited , except on the following grounds : ### without prejudice to paragraph 2 of this article , the storage or collection of personal data from consumers ' terminal equipment , other than by the consumer concerned shall be prohibited , except on the following grounds :


### the end - user has given his or her consent ; or ### the use of their terminal equipment for one or more specific purposes is in accordance with article 6 of regulation 2016 / 679 ; or


### the implementation of this regulation should be guided by the five priorities established in the global strategy for the european union’s foreign and security policy 59 , presented on 19 june 2016 , which represents the union ' s vision and the framework for united and responsible external engagement in partnership with others , to advance its values and interests . the union should enhance partnerships , promote policy dialogue and collective responses to challenges of global concern . its action should support the union’s interests and values in all its aspects , including preserving peace , preventing conflicts , strengthening international security , fighting root causes of irregular migration and assisting populations , countries and regions confronting natural or man - made disasters , supporting trade policy , economic diplomacy and economic cooperation , promoting digital solutions and technologies , and fostering the international dimension of union’s policies . in promoting its interests , the union should comply with , and promote , the principles of respect for high social and environmental standards , for the rule of law , for international law and for human rights . __________________ 59 ' shared vision , common action : a stronger europe . a global strategy for the european union ' s foreign and security policy ' , june 2016 . ### the application of this regulation should be based on the five priorities established in the global strategy for the european union’s foreign and security policy 59 , presented on 19 june 2016 , which represents the union ' s vision and the framework for united and responsible external engagement in partnership with others , to advance its values and interests . the union should enhance partnerships , promote policy dialogue and collective responses to challenges of global concern . its action should support the union’s interests and values in all its aspects , including promoting democracy and human rights , preserving peace , conflict prevention , mediation and post - conflict reconstruction including women at all stages , strengthening international security , addressing root causes of irregular migration and forced displacement and assisting populations , countries and regions confronting natural or man - made disasters , bringing about the conditions to create an international legal framework for the protection of persons displaced due to climate change , supporting trade policy as a tool for development and to bring improvements to the rule of law and human rights , economic diplomacy and economic cooperation , promoting digital solutions and technologies , addressing global public health threats and fostering the international dimension of union’s policies . in promoting its interests , the union should comply with , and promote , the principles of respect for high social , labour and environmental standards including with regard to climate change , for the rule of law , for international law , including in respect of humanitarian and international human rights law . __________________ 59 ' shared vision , common action : a stronger europe . a global strategy for the european union ' s foreign and security policy ' , june 2016 .


### global challenges . ### global challenges , including climate change mitigation and adaptation .


### on duly justified imperative grounds of urgency , such as crises or immediate threats to democracy , the rule of law , human rights or fundamental freedoms , the commission may amend multiannual indicative programmes referred to in articles 12 and 13 of this regulation by implementing acts adopted in accordance with the urgency procedure referred to in article 35 . ### on duly justified imperative grounds of urgency , such as crises or immediate threats to democracy , the rule of law , human rights or fundamental freedoms , the commission may amend multiannual programmes referred to in articles 12 and 13 by delegated acts adopted in accordance with the urgency procedure referred to in article 34 a .


### an interim evaluation of this regulation shall be performed once there is sufficient information available about its implementation , but no later than four years after the start of the implementation of the instrument . ### no later than 30 june 2024 , the commission shall submit a mid - term evaluation report on the application of this regulation . the mid - term evaluation report shall cover the period from 1 january 2021 to 31 december 2023 and shall examine the union contribution to the achievement of the objectives of this regulation , by means of indicators measuring the results delivered and any findings and conclusions concerning the impact of this regulation .


### whenever possible and appropriate , the results of the union ' s external action should be monitored and assessed on the basis of pre - defined , transparent , country - specific and measurable indicators , adapted to the specificities and objectives of the instrument and preferably based on the results framework of the partner country . ### the results of the union ' s external action should be monitored and assessed on the basis of pre - defined , transparent , country - specific and measurable indicators , disaggregated by sex and age at a minimum , adapted to the specificities and objectives of the instrument and based on the results framework of the partner country . the evaluations should be regularly communicated to the european parliament .


### annual or multiannual action plans and individual measures may be used to implement rapid response actions referred to in article 4 and . ### annual or multiannual action plans and individual measures may be used to execute rapid response actions referred to in article 4 .


### budget support as referred to in point of paragraph 1 , including through sector reform performance contracts , shall be based on country ownership , mutual accountability and shared commitments to universal values , democracy , human rights , the rule of law , and aims at strengthening partnerships between the union and partner countries . it shall include reinforced policy dialogue , capacity development , and improved governance , complementing partners ' efforts to collect more and spend better in order to support sustainable and inclusive economic growth and jobs and poverty eradication . ### budget support as referred to in point of paragraph 1 , including through sector reform performance contracts , shall be based on country ownership , mutual accountability and shared commitments to universal values , democracy , human rights , gender equality , social inclusion , human development and the rule of law , and aims at strengthening partnerships between the union and partner countries . it shall include reinforced policy dialogue , capacity development , and improved governance , complementing partners ' efforts to collect more and spend better in order to support sustainable and inclusive socio - economic development which benefits all , job creation , with particular attention to young people , reduction of inequalities and poverty eradication .


### at global level , to consolidate and support democracy , rule of law and human rights , support civil society organisations , further stability and peace and address other global challenges including migration and mobility ; ### at global level , to support civil society organisations and local authorities , further stability and peace , prevent conflict and promote just and inclusive societies , and address other global and regional challenges as well as foreign policy needs and challenges , as set out in annex iii , including the promotion of confidence building and good neighbourly relations ;


### at global level , to consolidate and support democracy , rule of law and human rights , support civil society organisations , further stability and peace and address other global challenges including migration and mobility ; ### at global level , to consolidate and support democracy , rule of law and human rights , support civil society organisations and local authorities , prevent conflicts and promote further stability and peace and address other global and regional challenges ;


### external actions are often implemented in a highly volatile environment requiring continuous and rapid adaptation to the evolving needs of union partners and to global challenges to human rights , democracy and good governance , security and stability , climate change and environment , oceans , and the migration crisis and its root causes . reconciling the principle of predictability with the need to react rapidly to new needs consequently means adapting the financial implementation of the programmes . to increase the ability of the eu to respond to unforeseen needs , building on the successful experience of the european development fund , an amount should be left unallocated as an emerging challenges and priorities cushion . it should be mobilised in accordance with the procedures established in this regulation . ### external actions are able to be applied in a highly volatile environment requiring continuous and rapid adaptation to the evolving needs of union partners and to global challenges to human rights and fundamental freedoms , democracy and good governance , security and stability , climate change and environment , oceans , and migration , including its root causes . reconciling the principle of predictability with the need to react rapidly to new needs consequently means adapting the financial application of the programmes . to increase the ability of the eu to respond to needs not covered by programmes and programming documents , building on the successful experience of the european development fund , an amount should be left unallocated as an emerging challenges and priorities cushion . it should be mobilised in duly justified cases in accordance with the procedures established in this regulation .


### at the end of the implementation of the regulation , but no later than four years after the end of the period specified in article 1 , a final evaluation of the regulation shall be carried out by the commission . this evaluation shall look at the union contribution to the achievement of the objectives of this regulation , taking into account indicators measuring the results delivered and any findings and conclusions concerning the impact of this regulation . ### the mid - term evaluation report shall also address efficiency , the added value , the scope for simplification , internal and external coherence , and the continued relevance of the objectives of this regulation .


### in duly justified cases and where the action to be implemented is of a global , trans - regional or regional nature , the commission may decide , within the relevant multiannual indicative programmes or within the relevant action plans or measures to extend the scope of actions to countries and territories not covered by this regulation pursuant to article 4 in order to ensure the coherence and effectiveness of union financing or to foster regional or trans - regional cooperation . ### in duly justified cases and where the action to be applied is of a global , trans - regional or regional nature , the commission shall be empowered to adopt a delegated act in accordance with article 34 to supplement this regulation by adding the countries and territories to those covered by this regulation pursuant to article 4 for the purpose of those actions .


### reaffirming at global level the central role of sustainable agriculture and fisheries and aquaculture for increased food security , poverty eradication , job creation , mitigating and adapting to climate change , resilience and healthy ecosystems ; ### reaffirming at global level the central role of sustainable agriculture and fisheries and aquaculture , including smallholder agriculture and livestock - keeping for increased food security , poverty eradication , job creation , equitable and sustainable access to and management of resources , including land and land rights , water , credit and other agricultural inputs , mitigating and adapting to climate change , resilience and healthy ecosystems ;


### when working with stakeholders of partner countries , the commission shall take into account their specificities , including their needs and the relevant context , when defining the financing modalities , the type of contribution , the award modalities and the administrative provisions for the management of grants , with a view to reaching and best responding to the widest possible range of such stakeholders . specific modalities shall be encouraged in accordance with the financial regulation , such as partnership agreements , authorisations of financial support to third parties , direct award or eligibility - restricted calls for proposals , or lump sums , unit costs and flat - rate financing as well as financing not linked to costs as envisaged in article 125 of the financial regulation . ### when working with stakeholders of partner countries , the commission shall take into account their specificities , including their needs and the relevant context , when defining the financing modalities , the type of contribution , the award modalities and the administrative provisions for the management of grants , with a view to reaching and best responding to the widest possible range of such stakeholders . that assessment shall take into account the conditions for a meaningful participation and involvement of all stakeholders , in particular local civil society . specific modalities shall be encouraged in accordance with the financial regulation , such as partnership agreements , authorisations of financial support to third parties , direct award or eligibility - restricted calls for proposals , or lump sums , unit costs and flat - rate financing as well as financing not linked to costs as envisaged in article 125 of the financial regulation . those different modalities shall ensure transparency , traceability and innovation .


### indicatively 10 % of the financial envelope set out in article 4 to supplement the country financial allocations referred to in article 12 shall be allocated to partner countries listed in annex i in order to implement the performance - based approach . the performance - based allocations shall be decided on the basis of their progress towards democracy , human rights , rule of law , cooperation on migration , economic governance and reforms . the progress of partner countries shall be assessed annually . ### at least 10 % of the financial envelope set out in article 4 , to supplement the country financial allocations referred to in article 12 , shall be allocated to partner countries listed in annex i in order to apply the performance - based approach . the performance - based allocations shall be decided on the basis of their progress towards democracy , human rights , rule of law , cooperation on migration , economic governance and implementing agreed reforms . the progress of partner countries shall be assessed annually , in particular by means of country progress reports which include trends as compared to previous years .


### programmes and actions under this regulation shall mainstream climate change , environmental protection and gender equality and shall address interlinkages between sustainable development goals , to promote integrated actions that can create co - benefits and meet multiple objectives in a coherent way . these programmes and actions shall be based on an analysis of risks and vulnerabilities , integrate a resilience approach and be conflict sensitive . they shall be guided by the principle of leaving no one behind . ### programmes and actions under this regulation shall mainstream climate change , environmental protection , education and culture , and gender equality and shall address interlinkages between sustainable development goals , to promote integrated actions that can create co - benefits and meet multiple objectives in a coherent way . these programmes and actions shall be based on an analysis of risks and vulnerabilities , including the understanding of different forms of discrimination , multiple discrimination , and their impacts on specific groups including women and youth , integrate a resilient preventive approach and be conflict sensitive . they shall be guided by the principle of leaving no one behind .


### programming documents for geographic programmes shall be results - based and shall take into account , where appropriate , internationally agreed targets and indicators , in particular those set out for the sustainable development goals , as well as country - level result frameworks , to assess and communicate the union contribution to results , at the level of outputs , outcomes and impact . ### programming documents shall be results - oriented and include clear targets and indicators to measure progress and impact of union assistance . indicators may be based , where appropriate , on internationally agreed standards in particular those set out for the sustainable development goals , as well as country - level result frameworks .


### the union shall foster cooperation with international organisations and other donors . ### the union shall foster cooperation with international or regional organisations and other donors .


### pursuant to paragraph 22 and 23 of the inter - institutional agreement for better law - making of 13 april 201678 , there is a need to evaluate this programme on the basis of information collected through specific monitoring requirements , while avoiding overregulation and administrative burdens , in particular on member states . these requirements , where appropriate , can include measurable indicators , as a basis for evaluating the effects of the programme on the ground . it is of particular importance that the commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level , and that those consultations be conducted in accordance with the principles laid down in the interinstitutional agreement on better law - making of 13 april 2016 . in particular , to ensure equal participation in the preparation of delegated acts , the european parliament and the council receive all documents at the same time as member states ' experts , and their experts systematically have access to meetings of commission expert groups dealing with the preparation of delegated acts . __________________ 78 interinstitutional agreement between the european parliament , the council of the european union and the european commission on better law - making of 13 april 2016 ; oj l 123 , 12 . 5 . 2016 , p . 1–14 . ### pursuant to paragraph 22 and 23 of the inter - institutional agreement for better law - making of 13 april 201678 , there is a need to evaluate this programme on the basis of information collected through specific monitoring requirements , while avoiding overregulation and administrative burdens , in particular on member states . these requirements should include measurable indicators , as a basis for evaluating the effects of the programme on the ground . it is of particular importance that the commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including with relevant stakeholders such as civil society and experts , and that those consultations be conducted in accordance with the principles laid down in the interinstitutional agreement on better law - making of 13 april 2016 . in particular , to ensure equal participation in the preparation of delegated acts , the european parliament and the council receive all documents at the same time as member states ' experts , and their experts systematically have access to meetings of commission expert groups dealing with the preparation of delegated acts . __________________ 78 interinstitutional agreement between the european parliament , the council of the european union and the european commission on better law - making of 13 april 2016 ; oj l 123 , 12 . 5 . 2016 , p . 1–14 .


### the commission shall keep the european parliament duly informed , in a timely manner , about the planning and the implementation of exceptional assistance measures pursuant to this article , including the financial amounts envisaged , and shall also inform the european parliament when making substantial changes or extensions to that assistance . ### the commission shall immediately inform the european parliament about the planning of measures pursuant to this article , including the financial amounts envisaged , and shall also inform the european parliament when making substantial changes or extensions to that assistance . as soon as possible following the adoption of a measure , and in any case within two months thereof , the commission shall report to the european parliament and to the council and give an overview of the nature , context and rationale of the measure adopted , including the complementarity of that measure with the ongoing and planned union response .


### the union shall seek to promote , develop and consolidate the principles of democracy , the rule of law and respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms on which it is founded , through dialogue and cooperation with partner countries and regions . ### the union shall seek to promote , develop and consolidate through dialogue and cooperation with partner countries and regions the principles on which it is founded , namely democracy , the rule of law , the universality and indivisibility of human rights and fundamental freedoms , respect for human dignity , the principles of equality and solidarity , and respect for the principles of the united nations charter and international law .


### multiannual indicative programmes for geographic programmes may be reviewed where necessary for effective implementation , in particular where there are substantive changes in the policy framework referred to in article 7 or following a crisis or post - crisis situation . ### multiannual geographic and thematic programmes shall expire on 30 june 2025 at the latest . the commission shall adopt new multiannual programmes by 30 june 2025 , based on the results , findings and conclusions of the mid - term evaluation referred to in article 32 .


### promoting inclusive and equitable quality formal , informal and non - formal education for all , at all levels and including technical and vocational training , including in emergency and crisis situations , and including through the use of digital technologies to improve education teaching and learning ; ### promoting the achievement of internationally agreed goals in education with particular focus on free public education systems , through inclusive and equitable quality formal , informal and non - formal education for all , at all levels and including technical and vocational training , including in emergency and crisis situations , and including through the use of digital technologies to improve education teaching and learning ;


### the commission shall adopt multiannual indicative programmes referred to in articles 12 and 13 by means of implementing acts . those implementing acts shall be adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 35 . this procedure shall also apply to reviews referred to in paragraphs 3 , 4 and 5 of this article , which have the effect of significantly modifying the content of the multiannual indicative programme . ### the commission is empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article&#160 ; 34 to supplement non - essential elements of this regulation with provisions establishing frameworks for multiannual programmes referred to in articles 12 and 13 by means of delegated acts . those delegated acts shall be adopted in accordance with the procedure referred to in article 34 . this procedure shall also apply to reviews referred to in paragraphs 3 , 4 and 5 of this article .


### the implementation of this regulation should be guided by the five priorities established in the global strategy for the european union’s foreign and security policy 59 , presented on 19 june 2016 , which represents the union ' s vision and the framework for united and responsible external engagement in partnership with others , to advance its values and interests . the union should enhance partnerships , promote policy dialogue and collective responses to challenges of global concern . its action should support the union’s interests and values in all its aspects , including preserving peace , preventing conflicts , strengthening international security , fighting root causes of irregular migration and assisting populations , countries and regions confronting natural or man - made disasters , supporting trade policy , economic diplomacy and economic cooperation , promoting digital solutions and technologies , and fostering the international dimension of union’s policies . in promoting its interests , the union should comply with , and promote , the principles of respect for high social and environmental standards , for the rule of law , for international law and for human rights . __________________ 59 ' shared vision , common action : a stronger europe . a global strategy for the european union ' s foreign and security policy ' , june 2016 . ### the application of this regulation should be based on the five priorities established in the global strategy for the european union’s foreign and security policy 59 , presented on 19 june 2016 , which represents the union ' s vision and the framework for united and responsible external engagement in partnership with others , to advance its values and interests . the union should enhance partnerships , promote policy dialogue and collective responses to challenges of global concern . its action should support the union’s interests and values in all its aspects , including promoting democracy and human rights , preserving peace , conflict prevention , mediation and post - conflict reconstruction including women at all stages , strengthening international security , addressing root causes of irregular migration and forced displacement and assisting populations , countries and regions confronting natural or man - made disasters , bringing about the conditions to create an international legal framework for the protection of persons displaced due to climate change , supporting trade policy as a tool for development and to bring improvements to the rule of law and human rights , economic diplomacy and economic cooperation , promoting digital solutions and technologies , addressing global public health threats and fostering the international dimension of union’s policies . in promoting its interests , the union should comply with , and promote , the principles of respect for high social , labour and environmental standards including with regard to climate change , for the rule of law , for international law , including in respect of humanitarian and international human rights law . __________________ 59 ' shared vision , common action : a stronger europe . a global strategy for the european union ' s foreign and security policy ' , june 2016 .


### this regulation should reflect the need to focus on strategic priorities , both geographically – the european neighbourhood and africa , as well as countries that are fragile and most in need , but also thematically – security , migration , climate change and human rights . ### this regulation should reflect the need to focus on strategic priorities , both geographically – the european neighbourhood and africa , as well as countries that are fragile and most in need , but also thematically – democracy and human rights , sustainable development , poverty eradication , security , migration , climate change and global public health threats .


### women and children ### women


### before the adoption or extension of exceptional assistance measures not exceeding eur 20 million , the commission shall inform the council of their nature and objectives and of the financial amounts envisaged . the commission shall inform the council before making significant substantive changes to exceptional assistance measures already adopted . the commission shall take account of the relevant policy approach of the council for the planning and subsequent implementation of such measures , in the interests of consistency of the union ' s external action . ### the commission shall take account of the relevant policy approach of the council and the european parliament for the planning and subsequent application of such measures , in the interests of consistency of the union ' s external action .


### union funding under this regulation shall be implemented through : ### union funding under this regulation shall be applied through :


### –human rights and democracy eur 1 500 million , ### –human rights and democracy eur 2 000 million , [ 2 , 15 % ] , of which 1 000 million for democracy - related actions including up to 25 % to be devoted to the funding of eu election observation missions and 1 000 million for human rights - related actions .


### to respond rapidly to : situations of crisis , instability and conflict ; resilience challenges and linking of humanitarian aid and development action ; and foreign policy needs and priorities . ### to respond rapidly to : situations of crisis , instability and conflict ; resilience challenges and linking of humanitarian aid and development action .


### the primary objective of union’s development cooperation policy , as laid down in article 208 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union is the reduction and , in the long term , the eradication of poverty . the union’s development cooperation policy also contributes to the objectives of the union’s external action , in particular to foster the sustainable economic , social and environmental development of developing countries , with the primary aim of eradicating poverty , as set out in article 21 of the treaty on european union . ### the primary objective of union’s development cooperation policy , as laid down in article 208 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union is the reduction and , in the long term , the eradication of poverty . the union’s development cooperation policy also contributes to the objectives of the union’s external action , in particular to foster the sustainable economic , social and environmental development of developing countries , with the primary aim of eradicating poverty , as set out in article 21 teu , and to preserve peace , prevent conflicts and strengthen international security , as set out in point of article 21teu .


### the types of financing and the methods of implementation under this regulation should be chosen on the basis of their ability to achieve the specific objectives of the actions and to deliver results , taking into account , in particular , the costs of controls , the administrative burden , and the expected risk of non - compliance . this should include consideration of the use of lump sums , flat rates and unit costs , as well as financing not linked to costs as referred to in article 125 of the financial regulation . ### the types of financing and the methods of application under this regulation should be chosen on the basis of partner’s needs , preferences and specific context , their relevance , sustainability and ability to comply with the development effectiveness principles , achieve the specific objectives of the actions and to deliver results , taking into account , in particular , the costs of controls , the administrative burden , and the expected risk of non - compliance . this should include consideration of the use of lump sums , flat rates and unit costs , as well as financing not linked to costs as referred to in article 125 of regulation 2018 / 10461a of the european parliament and of the council . the role of the european endowment for democracy as a foundation mandated through the european institutions for the support of democracy , civil society and human rights worldwide should be strengthened and increased under this regulation . the eed should be given the administrative flexibility and the financial opportunities to disburse targeted grants to civil society actors in the european neighbourhood standing for the implementation of the european neighbourhood policy – notably where it concerns the development of democracy , human rights , free elections and the rule of law as referred to in article 17 / 18 of this regulation .


### the types of financing and the methods of implementation under this regulation should be chosen on the basis of their ability to achieve the specific objectives of the actions and to deliver results , taking into account , in particular , the costs of controls , the administrative burden , and the expected risk of non - compliance . this should include consideration of the use of lump sums , flat rates and unit costs , as well as financing not linked to costs as referred to in article 125 of the financial regulation . ### the types of financing and the methods of application under this regulation should be chosen on the basis of partner’s needs , preferences and specific context , their relevance , sustainability and ability to comply with the development effectiveness principles , achieve the specific objectives of the actions and to deliver results , taking into account , in particular , the costs of controls , the administrative burden , and the expected risk of non - compliance . this should include consideration of the use of lump sums , flat rates and unit costs , as well as financing not linked to costs as referred to in article 125 of regulation 2018 / 10461a of the european parliament and of the council . __________________ 1a regulation 2018 / 1046 of the european parliament and of the council of 18 july 2018 on the financial rules applicable to the general budget of the union , amending regulations no 1296 / 2013 , no 1301 / 2013 , no 1303 / 2013 , no 1304 / 2013 , no 1309 / 2013 , no 1316 / 2013 , no 223 / 2014 , no 283 / 2014 , and decision no 541 / 2014 / eu and repealing regulation no 966 / 2012 .


### action plans and measures shall be adopted by means of implementing acts adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 35 . ### action plans and measures shall be adopted by a commission decision in accordance with the financial regulation .


### where appropriate evaluations shall make use of the good practise principles of the development assistance committee of the organisation for economic cooperation and development , seeking to ascertain whether the objectives have been met and to formulate recommendations with a view to improving future actions . ### the commission shall also evaluate the impact and effectiveness of its actions per area of intervention and the effectiveness of programming , by means of external evaluations . proposals and views of the european parliament and the council on independent external evaluations shall be duly taken into account by the commission . where applicable , evaluations shall make use of the good practice principles of the development assistance committee of the organisation for economic cooperation and development , seeking to ascertain whether the objectives have been met and to formulate recommendations with a view to improving future actions .


### the union should seek the most efficient use of available resources in order to optimise the impact of its external action . that should be achieved through coherence and complementarity among the union ' s external financing instruments , notably the instrument for pre - accession iii63 , the humanitarian aid instrument64 , the decision on overseas countries and territories65 , the european instrument for nuclear safety to complement the neighbourhood , development and international cooperation instrument on the basis of the euratom treaty66 , the common foreign and security policy and the newly proposed european peace facility67 which is financed outside the union budget , as well as the creation of synergies with other union policies and programmes . this includes coherence and complementarity with macro - financial assistance , where relevant . in order to maximise the impact of combined interventions to achieve a common objective , this regulation should allow for the combination of funding with other union programmes , as long as the contributions do not cover the same costs . __________________ 63 com 465 final proposal for a regulation of the european parliament and of the council establishing the instrument for pre - accession assistance 64 council regulation no 1257 / 96 of 20 june 1996 concerning humanitarian aid . 65 com 461 final proposal for a council decision on the association of the overseas countries and territories with the european union including relations between the european union on the one hand , and greenland and the kingdom of denmark on the other . 66 com 462 final proposal for a council regulation establishing a european instrument for nuclear safety complementing the neighbourhood , development and international cooperation instrument on the basis of the euratom treaty . 67 c 3800 final proposal of the high representative of the union for foreign affairs and security policy to the council for a council decision establishing a european peace facility . ### the union should seek the most efficient use of available resources in order to optimise the impact of its external action . that should be achieved through coherence and complementarity among the union ' s external financing instruments , notably the instrument for pre - accession iii63 , the humanitarian aid instrument64 , the decision on overseas countries and territories65 , the european instrument for nuclear safety to complement the neighbourhood , development and international cooperation instrument on the basis of the euratom treaty66 , the common foreign and security policy and the newly proposed european peace facility67 which is financed outside the union budget , as well as the creation of synergies with other union policies and programmes , including trust funds . this includes coherence and complementarity with macro - financial assistance , where relevant . in order to maximise the impact of combined interventions to achieve a common objective , this regulation should allow for the combination of funding with other union programmes , as long as the contributions do not cover the same costs . __________________ 63 com 465 final proposal for a regulation of the european parliament and of the council establishing the instrument for pre - accession assistance 64 council regulation no 1257 / 96 of 20 june 1996 concerning humanitarian aid . 65 com 461 final proposal for a council decision on the association of the overseas countries and territories with the european union including relations between the european union on the one hand , and greenland and the kingdom of denmark on the other . 66 com 462 final proposal for a council regulation establishing a european instrument for nuclear safety complementing the neighbourhood , development and international cooperation instrument on the basis of the euratom treaty . 67 c 3800 final proposal of the high representative of the union for foreign affairs and security policy to the council for a council decision establishing a european peace facility .


### to increase the impact of collective cooperation of the union , where possible , a joint programming document shall replace the union’s and member states programming documents . a joint programming document may replace the union’s multiannual indicative programme , provided it complies with articles 10 and 11 , contains the elements listed in paragraph 2 of this article and sets out the division of labour between the union and member states . ### to increase the impact of collective cooperation of the union , where possible , a joint programming document shall replace the union’s and member states programming documents . a joint programming document may replace the union’s multiannual programme , provided it is approved in an act adopted in accordance with article 14 and complies with articles 10 and 11 , contains the elements listed in paragraph 2 of this article and sets out the division of labour between the union and member states .


### the commission shall establish appropriate risk assessment , monitoring and evaluation procedures for measures pursuant to this article . ### the commission shall undertake , within the evaluation pursuant to article 32 , and in particular with regard to a mid - term evaluation , joint evaluations with member states . the results shall inform programme design and resource allocation , and further enhance the consistency and complementarity of the union ' s external action .


### the financial envelope for the implementation of this regulation for the period 2021 &#8211 ; 2027 shall be eur 89 200 million in current prices . ### the financial envelope for the application of this regulation for the period 2021 &#8211 ; 2027 shall be eur 93 154 million in current prices [ 100% ] .


### in accordance with article 41 of the treaty on european union , union funding under this regulation shall not be used to finance the procurement of arms or ammunition , or operations having military or defence implications . ### union funding under this regulation shall not be used to finance the procurement of arms or ammunition , or operations having military or defence implications .


### an interim evaluation of this regulation shall be performed once there is sufficient information available about its implementation , but no later than four years after the start of the implementation of the instrument . ### no later than 30 june 2024 , the commission shall submit a mid - term evaluation report on the application of this regulation . the mid - term evaluation report shall cover the period from 1 january 2021 to 31 december 2023 and shall examine the union contribution to the achievement of the objectives of this regulation , by means of indicators measuring the results delivered and any findings and conclusions concerning the impact of this regulation .


### strengthening partnerships on migration and mobility based on an integrated and balanced approach , covering all aspects of migration including assistance in implementing union bilateral or regional agreements and arrangements , including , mobility partnerships ; ### contributing to strengthening bilateral , regional , including south - south , and international partnerships on migration and mobility based on an integrated and balanced approach , covering all aspects of migration , and in compliance with international law and human rights obligations ;


### a rights - based approach encompassing all human rights , whether civil and political or economic , social and cultural shall be applied in order to integrate human rights principles , to support the right holders in claiming their rights with a focus on poorer and more vulnerable groups and to assist partner countries in implementing their international human rights obligations . this regulation shall promote gender equality and women’s empowerment . ### a rights - based approach encompassing all human rights , whether civil and political or economic , social and cultural shall be applied in order to integrate human rights principles , to support the right holders in claiming their rights with a focus on poorer and more vulnerable groups , including persons with disabilities , and to assist partner countries in implementing their international human rights obligations . this regulation shall promote gender equality , women’s empowerment .


### leading and supporting global efforts , partnerships and alliances to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls ; this includes physical , psychological , sexual , economic and other types of violence and discrimination , including exclusion that women suffer in the different areas of their private and public lives ; ### leading and supporting global efforts , partnerships and alliances to eliminate all forms of violence and discrimination against women and girls ; this includes physical , psychological , sexual , economic , political and other types of violence and discrimination , including exclusion that women suffer in the different areas of their private and public lives ;


### this regulation should enable the union to respond to challenges , needs and opportunities related to migration , in complementarity with union migration policy . to contribute to that end , and without prejudice to unforeseen circumstances , 10% of its financial envelope is expected to be dedicated to addressing the root causes of irregular migration and forced displacement and to supporting migration management and governance including the protection of refugees and migrants ' rights within the objectives of this regulation . ### this regulation should enable the union to respond to challenges , needs and opportunities related to migration , in complementarity with union migration policy . to contribute to that end , and without prejudice to new emerging challenges or new needs , 10% of its financial envelope is expected to be dedicated to addressing the root causes of irregular migration and forced displacement and to supporting strengthened engagement to facilitate safe , orderly , regular and responsible migration and the implementation of planned and well - managed migration policies and governance , including the protection of refugees and migrants ' rights within the objectives of this regulation . this regulation should also contribute to help host communities provide concrete support for displaced persons , notably the provision of access to basic services and livelihoods opportunities .


### this regulation should reflect the need to focus on strategic priorities , both geographically – the european neighbourhood and africa , as well as countries that are fragile and most in need , but also thematically – security , migration , climate change and human rights . ### this regulation should reflect the need to focus on strategic priorities , both geographically – the european neighbourhood and africa , as well as countries that are fragile and most in need , but also thematically – democracy and human rights , sustainable development , poverty eradication , security , migration , climate change and global public health threats .


### promoting an enabling environment for civil society organisations , including foundations , enhancing their meaningful and structured participation in domestic policies and their capacity to perform their roles as independent development and governance actors ; and strengthening new ways of partnering with civil society organisations , promoting a substantive and structured dialogue with the union and the effective use of country roadmaps for eu engagement with civil society ; ### promoting an enabling environment for civil society organisations , including foundations , enhancing their participation in domestic policies and their capacity to perform their roles as independent development and governance actors ; and strengthening new ways of partnering with civil society organisations , promoting a substantive and structured dialogue with the union and the effective use and implementation of country roadmaps for the union’s engagement with civil society ;


### this regulation should contribute to the collective union objective of providing 0 . 7% of gross national income as official development assistance within the timeframe of the 2030 agenda . in that regard , at least 92% of the funding under this regulation should contribute to actions designed in such a way that they fulfil the criteria for official development assistance as established by the development assistance committee of the organisation for economic cooperation and development . ### this regulation should contribute to the collective union objective of providing 0 . 7% of gross national income as official development assistance within the timeframe of the 2030 agenda . in that regard , at least 95 % of the funding under this regulation should contribute to actions designed in such a way that they fulfil the criteria for official development assistance as established by the development assistance committee of the organisation for economic cooperation and development .


### the annual report shall contain information relating to the previous year on the measures financed , the results of monitoring and evaluation exercises , the involvement of the relevant partners , and the implementation of budgetary commitments and of payment appropriations broken down by country , region and cooperation sector . it shall assess the results of the union funding using , as far as possible , specific and measurable indicators of its role in meeting the objectives of this regulation . in the case of development cooperation , the report shall also assess , where possible and relevant , the adherence to development effectiveness principles , including for innovative financial instruments . ### the annual report shall contain information relating to the previous year on the measures financed , the results of monitoring and evaluation exercises , the involvement of the relevant partners , and the application of budgetary commitments and of payment appropriations broken down by country , region and cooperation sector . it shall also include an annual estimate of the overall spending for the different targets set by this regulation . it shall assess the results of the union funding using specific and measurable indicators of its role in meeting the objectives of this regulation . in the case of development cooperation , the report shall also assess , the adherence to development effectiveness principles , including for innovative financial instruments .


### supporting the union trade policy and trade agreements and the implementation thereof ; and improving access to partner country markets and boosting trade , investment and business opportunities for companies from the union while eliminating barriers to market access and investment ### supporting the union trade policy and trade agreements and the implementation thereof ; and improving access to partner country markets and boosting fair trade , investment and business opportunities for companies from the union while eliminating barriers to market access and investment , and with full respect to policy coherence for development , where developing countries are concerned ;


### the association agreements , partnership and cooperation agreements , multilateral agreements , and other agreements that establish a legally binding relationship with partner countries , as well as , european council conclusions and council conclusions , summit declarations or conclusions of high - level meetings with partner countries , relevant european parliament resolutions , communications of the commission or joint communications of the commission and the high representative of the union for foreign affairs and security policy , shall constitute the overall policy framework for the implementation of this regulation . ### the association agreements , partnership and cooperation agreements and other agreements that establish a legally binding relationship with partner countries , recommendations and acts adopted in the bodies set up by those agreements , as well as relevant multilateral ageements , european council conclusions , council conclusions , summit declarations and other international declarations and conclusions of high - level meetings with partner countries , european parliament resolutions and positions , communications of the commission and the high representative of the union for foreign affairs and security policy and united nations resolutions shall constitute the overall policy framework for the application of this regulation .


### this regulation should support the implementation of the european neighbourhood policy , as reviewed in 2015 , and the implementation of regional cooperation frameworks , such as cross - border cooperation and the external aspects of relevant macro - regional and sea basin strategies and policies . those initiatives offer political frameworks for deepening relations with and among partner countries , based on the principles of mutual accountability , shared ownership and responsibility . ### the special relationship developed with the union’s neighbouring countries , in accordance with article 8 teu , should be preserved and enhanced through the application of this regulation . this regulation should contribute to reinforcing states’ and societies’ resilience in the unions’s neighbourhood , following the engagement taken in the global strategy . it should support the implementation of the european neighbourhood policy , as reviewed in 2015 , and the implementation of regional cooperation frameworks , such as cross - border cooperation and the external aspects of relevant macro - regional and sea basin strategies and policies in the eastern and southern neighbourhood . those initiatives offer political frameworks for deepening relations with and among partner countries , based on the principles of mutual accountability , shared ownership and responsibility and following a performance - based approach . in the case of a serious or persistent degradation of democracy in one of the partner countries , support should be suspended .


### where relevant , strategic environmental assessments shall be used in the implementation of sectoral programmes . the involvement of interested stakeholders in environmental assessments and public access to the results of such assessments shall be ensured . ### where relevant , human rights , social and strategic environmental assessments shall be used in the execution of sectoral programmes . the involvement of interested stakeholders in these assessments and public access to the results of such assessments shall be ensured .


### programming documents for geographic programmes shall be results - based and shall take into account , where appropriate , internationally agreed targets and indicators , in particular those set out for the sustainable development goals , as well as country - level result frameworks , to assess and communicate the union contribution to results , at the level of outputs , outcomes and impact . ### programming documents shall be results - oriented and include clear targets and indicators to measure progress and impact of union assistance . indicators may be based , where appropriate , on internationally agreed standards in particular those set out for the sustainable development goals , as well as country - level result frameworks .


### in line with the principle of inclusive partnership , where appropriate , the commission shall ensure that relevant stakeholders of partner countries , including civil society organisations and local authorities , are duly consulted and have timely access to relevant information allowing them to play a meaningful role during the design , implementation and associated monitoring processes of programmes . ### in line with the principle of inclusive partnership the commission shall ensure that relevant stakeholders of partner countries , including civil society organisations and local authorities , are duly consulted and have timely access to relevant information allowing them to play a meaningful role during the design , application and associated monitoring processes of programmes .


### the global context for action is the pursuit of a rules - based global order , with multilateralism as its key principle and the united nations at its core . the 2030 agenda , together with the paris agreement on climate change57 and the addis ababa action agenda58 is the international community’s response to global challenges and trends in relation to sustainable development . with the sustainable development goals at its core , the 2030 agenda is a transformative framework to eradicate poverty and achieve sustainable development globally . it is universal in scope , providing a comprehensive shared framework for action that applies to the union , to its member states and to its partners . it balances the economic , social and environmental dimensions of sustainable development , recognising the essential interlinkages between its goals and targets . the 2030 agenda aims to leave no one behind . the implementation of the 2030 agenda will be closely coordinated with the union ' s other relevant international commitments . actions undertaken by this regulation should pay particular attention to interlinkages between sustainable development goals and to integrated actions that can create co - benefits and meet multiple objectives in a coherent way . __________________ 57 signed in new york on 22 april 2016 . 58 ' addis ababa action agenda of the third international conference on financing for development ' , adopted on 16 june 2015 and endorsed by the united nations general assembly on 27 july 2015 . ### the global context for action is the pursuit of a rules - based global order , with multilateralism as its key principle and the united nations at its core . the 2030 agenda , together with the paris agreement on climate change57 and the addis ababa action agenda58 is the international community’s response to global challenges and trends in relation to sustainable development . with the sustainable development goals at its core , the 2030 agenda is a transformative framework to eradicate poverty and achieve sustainable development globally . it is universal in scope , providing a comprehensive shared framework for action that applies to the union , to its member states and to its partners . it balances the economic , social and environmental dimensions of sustainable development , recognising the essential interlinkages between its goals and targets . the 2030 agenda aims to leave no one behind . the implementation of the 2030 agenda will be closely coordinated with the union ' s other relevant international commitments . actions undertaken by this regulation should contribute to achieving the sustainable development goals and pay particular attention to interlinkages between them and to integrated actions that can create co - benefits and meet multiple objectives in a coherent way . __________________ 57 signed in new york on 22 april 2016 . 58 ' addis ababa action agenda of the third international conference on financing for development ' , adopted on 16 june 2015 and endorsed by the united nations general assembly on 27 july 2015 .


### appropriate environmental screening , including for climate change and biodiversity impacts , shall be undertaken at the level of actions , in accordance with the applicable legislative acts of the union , including directive 2011 / 92 / eu82 of the european parliament and of the council and council directive 85 / 337 / eec83 , comprising , where applicable , an environmental impact assessment for environmentally sensitive actions , in particular for major new infrastructure . __________________ 82 directive 2011 / 92 / eu of the european parliament and of the council of 13 december 2011 on the assessment of the effects of certain public and private projects on the environment . 83 council directive of 27 june 1985 on the assessment of the effects of certain public and private projects on the environment . ### appropriate human rights , social and environmental screening , including for climate change and biodiversity impacts , shall be undertaken at the level of actions , in accordance with the applicable legislative acts of the union , including directive 2011 / 92 / eu82 of the european parliament and of the council and council directive 85 / 337 / eec83 , comprising , where applicable , an environmental impact assessment for environmentally sensitive actions , in particular for major new infrastructure . __________________ 82 directive 2011 / 92 / eu of the european parliament and of the council of 13 december 2011 on the assessment of the effects of certain public and private projects on the environment . 83 council directive of 27 june 1985 on the assessment of the effects of certain public and private projects on the environment .


### the union shall also consult other donors and actors , including representatives of civil society and local authorities , where relevant ; ### the union shall also consult at an early stage of and throughout the programming process other donors and actors , including representatives of civil society and local authorities , funds and programmes , private and political foundations and other non - union donors , whenever relevant ;


### promoting the protection and fulfilment of women ' s and girls ' rights , including economic , labour and social rights , and sexual and reproductive health and rights , and preventing sexual and gender - based violence in all forms ; ### promoting the protection and fulfilment of women ' s and girls ' rights , including economic , labour and social rights , and sexual and reproductive health and rights , and preventing and protecting them from sexual and gender - based violence in all forms ;


### the global context for action is the pursuit of a rules - based global order , with multilateralism as its key principle and the united nations at its core . the 2030 agenda , together with the paris agreement on climate change57 and the addis ababa action agenda58 is the international community’s response to global challenges and trends in relation to sustainable development . with the sustainable development goals at its core , the 2030 agenda is a transformative framework to eradicate poverty and achieve sustainable development globally . it is universal in scope , providing a comprehensive shared framework for action that applies to the union , to its member states and to its partners . it balances the economic , social and environmental dimensions of sustainable development , recognising the essential interlinkages between its goals and targets . the 2030 agenda aims to leave no one behind . the implementation of the 2030 agenda will be closely coordinated with the union ' s other relevant international commitments . actions undertaken by this regulation should pay particular attention to interlinkages between sustainable development goals and to integrated actions that can create co - benefits and meet multiple objectives in a coherent way . _________________ 57 signed in new york on 22 april 2016 . 58 addis ababa action agenda of the third international conference on financing for development ' , adopted on 16 june 2015 and endorsed by the united nations general assembly on 27 july 2015 ### the global context for action is the pursuit of a rules - based global order , with multilateralism as its key principle and the united nations at its core . the 2030 agenda , together with the paris agreement on climate change and the addis ababa action agenda is the international community’s response to global challenges and trends in relation to sustainable development . with the sustainable development goals at its core , the 2030 agenda is a transformative framework to eradicate poverty and achieve sustainable development globally . it is universal in scope , providing a comprehensive shared framework for action that applies to the union , to its member states and to its partners . it balances the economic , social , cultural , educational and environmental dimensions of sustainable development , recognising the essential interlinkages between its goals and targets . the 2030 agenda aims to leave no one behind . the implementation of the 2030 agenda will be closely coordinated with the union ' s other relevant international commitments . actions undertaken by this regulation should pay particular attention to supporting interlinkages between sustainable development goals and actions that can create co - benefits and meet multiple objectives in a coherent way , in line with sustainable development goal 4 . _________________ 57 signed in new york on 22 april 2016 . 58 addis ababa action agenda of the third international conference on financing for development ' , adopted on 16 june 2015 and endorsed by the united nations general assembly on 27 july 2015 .


### civil society organisations should embrace a wide range of actors with different roles and mandates which includes all non - state , not - for - profit structures , non - partisan and non - violent , through which people organise to pursue shared objectives and ideals , whether political , cultural , social or economic . operating from the local to the national , regional and international levels , they comprise urban and rural , formal and informal organisations . ### civil society organisations should embrace a wide range of actors with different roles and mandates which includes all non - state , not - for - profit structures and non - violent , through which people organise to pursue shared objectives and ideals , whether political , cultural , social or economic . operating from the local to the national , regional and international levels , they comprise urban and rural , formal and informal organisations . other bodies or actors not specifically excluded by this regulation are able to be financed when it is necessary to achieve the objectives of this regulation .


### indicatively 10 % of the financial envelope set out in article 4 to supplement the country financial allocations referred to in article 12 shall be allocated to partner countries listed in annex i in order to implement the performance - based approach . the performance - based allocations shall be decided on the basis of their progress towards democracy , human rights , rule of law , cooperation on migration , economic governance and reforms . the progress of partner countries shall be assessed annually . ### at least 10 % of the financial envelope set out in article 4 , to supplement the country financial allocations referred to in article 12 , shall be allocated to partner countries listed in annex i in order to apply the performance - based approach . the performance - based allocations shall be decided on the basis of their progress towards democracy , human rights , rule of law , cooperation on migration , economic governance and implementing agreed reforms . the progress of partner countries shall be assessed annually , in particular by means of country progress reports which include trends as compared to previous years .


### the european neighbourhood policy , as reviewed in 201562 , aims at the stabilisation of neighbouring countries and strengthening resilience , particularly by boosting economic development , as the union ' s main political priorities . in order to attain its objective , the reviewed european neighbourhood policy has been focusing on four priority areas : good governance , democracy , the rule of law and human rights , with a particular focus in engaging further with civil society ; economic development ; security ; migration and mobility , including tackling the root causes of irregular migration and forced displacement . differentiation and enhanced mutual ownership are the hallmark of the european neighbourhood policy , recognising different levels of engagement , and reflecting the interests of each country concerning the nature and focus of its partnership with the union . __________________ 62 joint communication to the european parliament , the council , the european economic and social committee and the committee of the regions , ' review of the european neighbourhood policy ' , 18 november 2015 . ### the european neighbourhood policy62 aims at the deepening of democracy , promotion of human rights and upholding of the rule of law ; the stabilisation of neighbouring countries ; and strengthening resilience , particularly by boosting economic development , as the union ' s main political priorities . in order to attain its objective , the reviewed european neighbourhood policy has been focusing on four priority areas : good governance , democracy , the rule of law and human rights , with a particular focus in engaging further with civil society ; economic development ; security ; migration and mobility , including tackling the root causes of irregular migration and forced displacement . differentiation and enhanced mutual ownership are the hallmark of the european neighbourhood policy , recognising different levels of engagement , and reflecting the interests of each country concerning the nature and focus of its partnership with the union . neighbourhood funding is a key lever in addressing common challenges , such as irregular migration , as well as in spreading prosperity , security and stability through economic development and better governance . the visibility of union assistance in the neighbourhood area should be enhanced . __________________ 62 joint communication to the european parliament , the council , the european economic and social committee and the committee of the regions , ' review of the european neighbourhood policy ' , 18 november 2015 .