### (8) a healthy and thriving democracy requires that people are able to participate actively in public debate without undue interference by public authority or other powerful actors , be they domestic or foreign. in order to secure meaningful participation , people should be able to access reliable information , which enables them to form their own opinions and exercise their own judgement in a public space in which different views can be expressed freely. ### (8) a healthy and thriving democracy requires that people are able to participate actively in public debate without undue interference by public authority or other powerful actors , be they domestic or foreign. in order to secure meaningful participation , people should be able to access reliable information , which enables them to form their own opinions and exercise their own judgement in a public space , where in which different views can be expressed freely. therefore , media literacy programmes and anti-disinformation campaigns should be an essential instrument for member states to protect their citizens against undue interference in the public debate. legal professionals , handling cases related to public participation of individuals acting on matters of public interest , should be offered adequate trainings on how to effectively identify an abuse of procedure in the detriment of the defendant , who is considered acting on a matter of public interest.


### (9) to foster this environment , it is important to protect journalists and human rights defenders from court proceedings against public participation. such court proceedings are not initiated for the purpose of access to justice , but to silence public debate typically using harassment and intimidation. ### (9) to foster a healthy and thriving democracy it is important to protect journalists , human rights defenders , any private or public entity acting in public interest , or indirectly participating in such actions , from court proceedings aimed to silence them on a particular matter of public interest. such court proceedings may be considered as abusive in case there is a legitimate suspicion by the competent judicial body that they are not initiated for the purpose of access to justice , but to exploit procedural instruments in order to silence public debate.


### (9) to foster this environment , it is important to protect journalists and human rights defenders from court proceedings against public participation. such court proceedings are not initiated for the purpose of access to justice , but to silence public debate typically using harassment and intimidation. ### (9) to foster this environment , it is important to protect natural and legal persons from court proceedings against public participation. such court proceedings are not initiated for the purpose of access to justice , but to silence public debate and prevent investigation and reporting on breaches of union and national law , corruption or other abusive practices , typically using harassment and intimidation.


### (10) slapps are typically initiated by powerful entities , for example individuals , lobby groups , corporations and state organs. they often involve an imbalance of power between the parties , with the claimant having a more powerful financial or political position than the defendant. although not being an indispensable component of such cases , where present , an imbalance of power significantly increases the harmful effects as well as the chilling effects of court proceedings against public participation. ### (10) slapps are typically initiated by powerful entities , for example individuals , lobby groups , corporations , public officials and publicly controlled entities. they often involve an imbalance of power between the parties , with the claimant having a more powerful financial or political position than the defendant. although not being an indispensable component of such cases , where present , an imbalance of power significantly increases the harmful effects as well as the chilling effects of court proceedings against public participation.


### (11) court proceedings against public participation may have an adverse impact on the credibility and reputation of journalists and human rights defenders and exhaust their financial and other resources. because of such proceedings , the publication of information on a matter of public interest may be delayed or altogether avoided. the length of procedures and the financial pressure may have a chilling effect on journalists and human rights defenders. the existence of such practices may therefore have a deterrent effect on their work by contributing to self-censorship in anticipation of possible future court proceedings , which leads to the impoverishment of public debate to the detriment of society as a whole. ### (11) court proceedings against public participation may have an adverse impact on the credibility and reputation of journalists , academics and human rights defenders and exhaust their financial and other resources. because of such proceedings , the publication of information on a matter of public interest may be delayed or altogether avoided. the length of procedures and the financial pressure may have a chilling effect on journalists , academics and human rights defenders. the existence of such practices may therefore have a deterrent effect on their work by contributing to self-censorship in anticipation of possible future court proceedings , which leads to the impoverishment of public debate to the detriment of society as a whole.


### (16) public participation should mean any statement or activity by a natural or legal person expressed or carried out in exercise of the right to freedom of expression and information on a matter of public interest , such as the creation , exhibition , advertisement or other promotion of journalistic , political , scientific , academic , artistic , commentary or satirical communications , publications or works , and any preparatory activities directly linked thereto. it can also include activities related to the exercise of the right to freedom of association and peaceful assembly , such as the organisation of or participation to lobbying activities , demonstrations and protests or activities resulting from the exercise of the right to good administration and the right to an effective remedy , such as the filing of complaints , petitions , administrative and judicial claims and participation in public hearings. public participation should also include preparatory , supporting or assisting activities that have a direct and inherent link to the statement or activity in question and that are targeted to stifle public participation. in addition , it can cover other activities meant to inform or influence public opinion or to further action by the public , including activities by any private or public entity in relation to an issue of public interest , such as the organisation of or participation to research , surveys , campaigns or any other collective actions. ### (16) public participation should mean any statement or activity by a natural or legal person expressed or carried out in exercise of the right to freedom of expression and information or academic freedom on a matter of public interest , such as the creation , exhibition , advertisement or other promotion of journalistic , political , scientific , academic , artistic , commentary or satirical communications , publications or works , and any preparatory activities directly linked thereto. it can also include activities related to the exercise of the right to freedom of association and peaceful assembly , such as the organisation of or participation to lobbying activities , demonstrations and protests or activities resulting from the exercise of the right to good administration and the right to an effective remedy , such as the filing of complaints , petitions , administrative and judicial claims and participation in public hearings. public participation should also include preparatory , supporting or assisting activities that have a direct and inherent link to the statement or activity in question and that are targeted to stifle public participation. in addition , it can cover other activities meant to inform or influence public opinion or to further action by the public , including activities by any private or public entity in relation to an issue of public interest , such as the organisation of or participation to research , surveys , campaigns or any other collective actions.


### (19) activities of a person or entity in the public eye or of public interest are also matters of public interest to which the public may legitimately take an interest in. however , there is no legitimate interest involved where the sole purpose of a statement or activity concerning such a person or entity is to satisfy the curiosity of a particular audience regarding the details of a person’s private life. ### (19) activities of a public figure are also matters of public interest to which the public may legitimately take an interest in. however , there is no legitimate interest involved where the sole purpose of a statement or activity concerning such a person or entity is to satisfy the curiosity of a particular audience regarding the details of a person’s private life.


### (20) abusive court proceedings typically involve litigation tactics used in bad faith such as delaying proceedings , causing disproportionate costs to the defendant in the proceedings or forum shopping. these tactics are used by the claimant for other purposes than gaining access to justice. such tactics are often , although not always , combined with various forms of intimidation , harassment or threats. ### (20) court proceedings may be considered as abusive by the competent judicial authority when they involve litigation tactics used in bad faith such as delaying proceedings , causing disproportionate costs to the defendant in the proceedings or forum shopping. in these cases where the claimant is in a significantly more influential position than the defendant , who is acting on a matter of public interest , it may be considered that the claimant doesn’t primarily seek to benefit from his basic right to access to justice. such proceedings may be combined with various forms of intimidation , harassment or threats.


### (20) abusive court proceedings typically involve litigation tactics used in bad faith such as delaying proceedings , causing disproportionate costs to the defendant in the proceedings or forum shopping. these tactics are used by the claimant for other purposes than gaining access to justice. such tactics are often , although not always , combined with various forms of intimidation , harassment or threats. ### (20) abusive court proceedings typically involve litigation tactics used in bad faith such as delaying proceedings , making excessive claims , causing disproportionate costs to the defendant in the proceedings or forum shopping. these tactics are used by the claimant for other purposes than gaining access to justice. such tactics are often , although not always , combined with various forms of intimidation , harassment or threats and in case of death of the defendant such abusive lawsuits might be even inherited by the members of the family.


### (22) a matter should be considered to have cross-border implications unless both parties are domiciled in the same member state as the court seised. even where both parties are domiciled in the same member state as the court seised , a matter should be considered to have cross-border implications in two other types of situations. the first situation is where the specific act of public participation concerning a matter of public interest at stake is relevant to more than one member state. that includes for instance public participation in events organised by union institutions , such as appearances in public hearings , or statements or activities on matters that are of specific relevance to more than one member state , such as cross-border pollution or allegations of money laundering with potential cross-border involvement. the second situation where a matter should be considered to have cross-border implications is when the claimant or associated entities have initiated concurrent or previous court proceedings against the same or associated defendants in another member state. these two types of situations take into consideration the specific context of slapps. ### (22) a matter should be considered to have cross-border implications where the specific act of public participation concerning a matter of public interest at stake is relevant to more than one member state. that includes for instance public participation in events organised by union institutions , such as appearances in public hearings , or statements or activities on matters that are of specific relevance to more than one member state , such as cross-border pollution or allegations of money laundering with potential cross-border involvement. a matter should also be considered to have cross-border implications when the claimant or associated entities have initiated concurrent or previous court proceedings against the same or associated defendants in another member state.


### (26) to provide the defendant with an additional safeguard , there should be a possibility to grant him or her a security to cover procedural costs and/or damages , when the court considers that even if the claim is not manifestly unfounded , there are elements indicating an abuse of procedure and the prospects for success in the main proceedings are low. a security does not entail a judgement on the merits but serves as a precautionary measure ensuring the effects of a final decision finding an abuse of procedure. it should be for member states to decide whether a security should be ordered by the court on its own motion or upon request by the defendant. ### (26) to provide the defendant with an additional safeguard , there should be a possibility to grant him or her a security to cover procedural costs and/or damages , when the court considers that even if the claim is not manifestly unfounded , there are elements indicating an abuse of procedure and the prospects for success in the main proceedings are low. a security does not entail a judgement on the merits but serves as a precautionary measure ensuring the effects of a final decision finding an abuse of procedure and covering the costs and damage caused to the defendant. it should be for member states to decide whether a security should be ordered by the court on its own motion or upon request by the defendant.


### (36) this directive is complementary to the commission recommendation on protecting journalists and human rights defenders who engage in public participation from manifestly unfounded or abusive court proceedings (“strategic lawsuits against public participation”). this recommendation is addressed to member states and it provides a comprehensive toolbox of measures including training , awareness-raising , support to targets of abusive court proceedings and data collection , reporting and monitoring of court proceedings against public participation. ### (36) this directive is complementary to the commission recommendation on protecting journalists and human rights defenders who engage in public participation from manifestly unfounded or abusive court proceedings (“strategic lawsuits against public participation”). this recommendation is addressed to member states and it provides a comprehensive toolbox of measures including training , awareness-raising , support to targets of abusive court proceedings and data collection , reporting and monitoring of court proceedings against public participation. when transposing this directive , member states should pay particular attention to the implementation of the commission’s recommendations as regards , in particular , the inclusion of safeguards similar to those provided for by the directive for domestic cases not covered by the directive’s scope , and the provision of legal assistance to defendants in an affordable and easily accessible manner , and consider the inclusion in their national transposition laws of targeted provisions to that effect.


### this directive provides safeguards against manifestly unfounded or abusive court proceedings in civil matters with cross-border implications brought against natural and legal persons , in particular journalists and human rights defenders , on account of their engagement in public participation. ### this directive provides safeguards against manifestly unfounded or abusive court proceedings in civil matters , with cross-border implications , brought against natural and legal persons , on account of their engagement in public participation on matters of public interest.


### this directive provides safeguards against manifestly unfounded or abusive court proceedings in civil matters with cross-border implications brought against natural and legal persons , in particular journalists and human rights defenders , on account of their engagement in public participation. ### this directive provides safeguards against manifestly unfounded or abusive court proceedings in civil matters with cross-border implications brought against natural and legal persons on account of their engagement in public participation.


### 1. ‘public participation’ means any statement or activity by a natural or legal person expressed or carried out in the exercise of the right to freedom of expression and information on a matter of public interest , and preparatory , supporting or assisting action directly linked thereto. this includes complaints , petitions , administrative or judicial claims and participation in public hearings; ### 1. ‘public participation’ means any statement or activity by a natural or legal person expressed or carried out in the exercise of the right to freedom of expression and information on a matter of public interest , including preparatory , supporting or assisting action directly linked thereto.


### 1. ‘public participation’ means any statement or activity by a natural or legal person expressed or carried out in the exercise of the right to freedom of expression and information on a matter of public interest , and preparatory , supporting or assisting action directly linked thereto. this includes complaints , petitions , administrative or judicial claims and participation in public hearings; ### 1. ‘public participation’ means any statement or activity by a natural or legal person expressed or carried out in the exercise of the rights to freedom of expression and information , freedom of assembly and association or academic freedom on a matter of public interest , and preparatory , supporting or assisting action directly linked thereto. this includes complaints , petitions , administrative or judicial claims and participation in public hearings , as well as exercise of public scrutiny and dissemination of public information in form of creation , exhibition , advertisement or other promotion of journalistic , political , scientific , academic , artistic , commentary or satirical communications , publications or works;


### 2. ‘matter of public interest’ means any matter which affects the public to such an extent that the public may legitimately take an interest in it , in areas such as: ### 2. ‘matter of public interest’ means any financial or regulatory matter , excluding matters of inidividual interest , which affects the public to such an extent that the public may legitimately take an interest in it , in areas such as:


### public health , safety , the environment , climate or enjoyment of fundamental rights; ### fundamental rights , public health , public safety , the environment or climate


### public health , safety , the environment , climate or enjoyment of fundamental rights; ### fundamental rights , public health , safety , media freedom and pluralism , the environment or climate;


### activities of a person or entity in the public eye or of public interest; ### deleted


### allegations of corruption , fraud or criminality; ### allegations of criminal offences related to public issues , such as high level corruption , fraud , tax evasion , sexual harassment or any other type of criminality


### activities aimed to fight disinformation; ### activities aimed to fight disinformation and foreign interference in democratic processes;


### 3. ‘abusive court proceedings against public participation’ mean court proceedings brought in relation to public participation that are fully or partially unfounded and have as their main purpose to prevent , restrict or penalize public participation. indications of such a purpose can be: ### 3. ‘abusive court proceedings against public participation’ mean court proceedings brought in relation to public participation that are alleged to be fully or partially unfounded by the relevant judicial authority and which are suspected to mainly serve to prevent , restrict or penalize public participation. indications of such a purpose can be


### 3. ‘abusive court proceedings against public participation’ mean court proceedings brought in relation to public participation that are fully or partially unfounded and have as their main purpose to prevent , restrict or penalize public participation. indications of such a purpose can be: ### 3. ‘abusive court proceedings against public participation’ mean court proceedings brought in relation to public participation that are characterised by elements indicative of an abusive use of the judicial process for purposes other than genuinely asserting , vindicating or exercising a right and have as their main purpose to prevent , restrict or penalize public participation. indications of such a purpose or effect can be:


### intimidation , harassment or threats on the part of the claimant or his or her representatives. ### a legitimate suspicion or proof that intimidation , harassment or threats on the part of the claimant or his or her representatives took part in relation to the subject of the claim.


### 1. for the purposes of this directive , a matter is considered to have cross-border implications unless both parties are domiciled in the same member state as the court seised. ### 1. for the purposes of this directive , a matter is considered to have cross-border implications where a statement or engagement in public participation is accessible , via electronic or digital means , in more than one member state


### 2. where both parties to the proceedings are domiciled in the same member state as the court seised , the matter shall also be considered to have cross-border implications if: ### deleted


### the act of public participation concerning a matter of public interest against which court proceedings are initiated is relevant to more than one member state , or ### deleted


### the claimant or associated entities have initiated concurrent or previous court proceedings against the same or associated defendants in another member state. ### deleted


### 1. member states shall ensure that when court proceedings are brought against natural or legal persons on account of their engagement in public participation , those persons can apply for: ### 1. member states shall ensure that when court proceedings are brought against natural or legal persons on account of their engagement in public participation on matters of public interest , those persons can apply for:


### 3. member states may provide that measures on procedural safeguards in accordance with chapters iii and iv can be taken by the court or tribunal seised of the matter ex officio. ### 3. member states shall provide that measures on procedural safeguards in accordance with chapters iii and iv can be taken by the court or tribunal seised of the matter ex officio.


### member states shall provide the commission with all relevant information regarding the application of this directive by [5 years from the date of transposition]. on the basis of the information provided , the commission shall by [6 years from the date of transposition] at the latest , submit to the european parliament and the council a report on the application of this directive. the report shall provide an assessment of the evolution of abusive court proceedings against public participation and the impact of this directive in the member states. if necessary , the report shall be accompanied by proposals to amend this directive. ### member states shall provide the commission with all relevant information regarding the application of this directive by [3 years from the date of transposition]. on the basis of the information provided , the commission shall by [4 years from the date of transposition] at the latest , submit to the european parliament and the council a report on the application of this directive. the report shall provide an assessment of the evolution of abusive court proceedings against public participation and the impact of this directive in the member states. if necessary , the report shall be accompanied by proposals to amend this directive.


### (6) investigative journalists in particular play a key role in combating organised crime , corruption and extremism. their work carries particularly high risks and they are experiencing a growing number of attacks and harassment. a robust system of safeguards is needed to enable them to fulfil their crucial role as watchdogs on matters of legitimate public interest. ### (6) investigative journalists in particular play a key role in uncovering organised crime , abuse of power , corruption , fundamental rights violations and extremism. their work carries particularly high risks and they are experiencing a growing number of attacks , intimidation and harassment. a robust system of safeguards and protection , including to protect life and investigate assassinations , are needed to enable them to fulfil their crucial role as watchdogs on matters of legitimate public interest , without fear of punishment for searching for the truth and informing the public.


### d. whereas the covid-19 pandemic has had an enormous economic impact on professional sports as revenues have plummeted because numerous events at all levels have had to be cancelled or have taken place without spectators; ### d. whereas the covid-19 pandemic has had an enormous economic impact on professional spectator sports as revenues have plummeted due to numerous events at all levels being cancelled or taking place without spectators; whereas timely digitalisation of various sports could have helped minimise the downturn;


### f. whereas sport is an important economic sector accounting for 2.12% of total gdp and 2.72% of total employment in the eu; ### f. whereas sport is an important economic sector accounting for 2.12% of gdp and 2.72% of total employment in the eu;


### g. whereas sport fulfils important societal functions , inter alia by promoting social inclusion , integration and cohesion and by improving physical and mental health; ### g. whereas sport fulfils important societal functions , inter alia by promoting social inclusion , solidarity , tolerance , respect , integration and cohesion and by improving physical and mental health;


### 1. is concerned that the youth labour market is highly sensitive to economic cycles and , an economic crisis , youth employment is hit harder as it is dominated by relatively unstable low-paid part-time jobs; ### 1. is concerned about economic hardship of youth , especially young workers and students; stresses that youth labour market is highly sensitive to economic cycles and the fallout from the pandemic is amplifying the existing trends of stagnant job market and low wages; notes that during an economic crisis , youth employment is hit harder as it is dominated by relatively unstable low-paid part-time jobs;


### 2. underlines that labour-intensive sectors , such as wholesale and retail , accommodation , tourism and food services , employing low-paid and low-skilled young workers have been most dramatically affected; believes that , as a result , it is likely that youth unemployment rises substantially in both the short and long term , as with the 2008 economic crisis; ### 2. underlines that labour-intensive sectors often characterised by low-pay , such as wholesale and retail , accommodation , tourism and food services , typically employing low-skilled young workers and working students have been most dramatically affected; notes that youth unemployment has risen steadily since the outbreak of the pandemic; believes that it is likely that youth unemployment will rise further in the short term and may stay above the pre-pandemic levels in the long term; remains hopeful , however , as the situation in the labour markets was starting to recover with the easing of the first lockdowns;


### 3. urges the commission and the member states to take all necessary measures to counter the disastrous effects on youth employment , including through macroeconomic (fiscal and monetary) policies that direct public expenditure towards providing hiring subsidies or youth guarantees , as well as investment in economic sectors with the potential to absorb young jobseekers; ### 3. urges the commission and the member states to take all necessary measures to stabilise the economic situation for youth by tackling unemployment and underemployment through tailored schemes for job retention and creation , including direct public expenditure towards providing hiring subsidies or youth guarantees and as investment in economic sectors with the potential to absorb young jobseekers; stresses the necessity of temporarily supporting students that are underemployed and experiencing financial hardship; notes that relevant support schemes must go beyond the commitments of the youth guarantee;


### 4. is deeply concerned that , in their agreement of 21 july 2020 , the european council was not ambitious enough in its support for the young generations – the future of europe; underlines in this context that sectoral programmes with a direct focus on youth or with the potential to support the transition towards a fairer , more socially and environmentally sustainable europe , will now not be able to meet their ambitious targets , which is a bitter disappointment for the young people and future generations; ### 4. is deeply concerned that , in their agreement of 21 july 2020 , the european council was not ambitious enough in its support for the young generations – the future of europe; underlines in this context that sectoral programmes with a direct focus on youth or with the potential to support the transition towards a fairer , more socially and environmentally sustainable europe , will now not be able to meet their ambitious targets , which is a bitter disappointment for the young people and future generations; believes that member states should also include support for young people in the recovery plans;


### 5. calls for the wide use of alternative learning opportunities , such as online learning and training , a strong focus on technical and vocational education and training , and the use of digital tools and teaching and learning materials , in order to avoid people dropping out of education and to provide for a smooth and effective school-to-work transition; ### 5. calls for the wide use of alternative learning opportunities , such as online learning and training , a strong focus on technical and vocational education and training , and the use of a tools and development and use of quality teaching and learning materials , in order to help avoid people dropping out of education and to provide for a smooth and effective school-to-work transition;


### 7. is concerned that the covid-19 crisis has increased anxiety and fear among young people , which risks impacting considerably on their lives and school-to-work transition; calls for the wide use of tailored mental health services , psychosocial support and sports activities , acting as stand-alone or modular measures , and for upscaled mental well-being support within training and education institutions; ### 7. is concerned that the covid-19 crisis has increased worrying , anxiety , depression and attempts of self-harm among young people and that the mental health impact of the pandemic will outlast the virus , thus impacting considerably the lives of young people; calls for the wide use of tailored mental health services , psychosocial support and sports activities , acting as stand-alone or modular measures , and for upscaled mental well-being support within training and education institutions;


### 8. calls for a rights-based approach in the various policies rooted in the principles of non-discrimination and equality in order to tackle the multiple forms of discrimination suffered by young people during the covid-19 crisis , and to protect vulnerable groups , such as homeless young people and young migrants and refugees; ### 8. calls for a rights-based approach in the various policies rooted in the principles of non-discrimination and equality in order to tackle the multiple forms of discrimination suffered by young people during the covid-19 crisis , and to protect vulnerable groups such as young people with disabilities and young people coming from disadvantaged background;


### 8. calls for a rights-based approach in the various policies rooted in the principles of non-discrimination and equality in order to tackle the multiple forms of discrimination suffered by young people during the covid-19 crisis , and to protect vulnerable groups , such as homeless young people and young migrants and refugees; ### 8. calls for a rights-based approach in the various policies rooted in the principles of non-discrimination and equality in order to tackle the multiple forms of discrimination suffered by young people during the covid-19 crisis , and to protect vulnerable groups;


### 9. is deeply concerned about possible lasting damage to the sports sector , not only in economic and employment terms , but also for society as a whole; ### 9. is deeply concerned about possible lasting damage to the commercial sports sector , not only in economic and employment terms , but also for society as a whole;


### 10. underlines that sport and physical exercise are particularly important under the circumstances caused by the pandemic; ### 10. underlines that sport and physical exercise are particularly important under the circumstances caused by the pandemic; welcomes the fact that early evidence from multiple sources , including data from fitness technology companies , suggests that lockdowns have largely had a positive effect on individual sports activities , with people exercising more frequently and actively , and spending more time outdoors;


### 10. underlines that sport and physical exercise are particularly important under the circumstances caused by the pandemic; ### 10. underlines that sport and physical exercise are particularly important under the circumstances caused by the pandemic; stresses that sport and physical activity strengthen both physical and mental resilience;


### 11. considers that general recovery instruments adopted by the eu in response to the crisis can help support the sports sector in the short term and urges member states to ensure that national support funds benefit the sports sector despite its specific characteristics and organisational structures; ### 11. considers that general recovery instruments adopted by the eu in response to the crisis shall help support the sports sector in the short term and urges member states to ensure that national support funds , the structural funds , and recovery and resilience national plans shall benefit the sports sector despite its specific characteristics and organisational structures; calls on the member states to strengthen the recovery and the crisis resilience of the sport sector during and in the aftermath of the covid-19 pandemic;


### 11. considers that general recovery instruments adopted by the eu in response to the crisis can help support the sports sector in the short term and urges member states to ensure that national support funds benefit the sports sector despite its specific characteristics and organisational structures; ### 11. considers that general recovery instruments adopted by the eu in response to the crisis can help support the sports sector in the short term and urges member states to ensure that national support funds benefit the sports sector despite its specific characteristics and organisational structures; notes , however , that any support measures must first and foremost prioritise the professional athletes and people employed in the sector;


### 12. believes that existing financial support will not be sufficient and calls on the commission to explore all possible avenues to deliver additional targeted support for the sport sector; ### 12. believes that existing financial support may not be sufficient and calls on the commission to explore all possible avenues to deliver additional targeted support for the sport sector with an aim of increasing the competitiveness of the sector and increase its sustainability;


### 13. invites the commission to thoroughly assess the socio-economic impact of the covid-19 pandemic on sport and , based on the results of this assessment , develop a coordinated european approach to cope with the challenges and mitigate the consequences; ### 13. acknowledges that not all sports have been equally hard hit; invites the commission to thoroughly assess the socio-economic impact of the covid-19 pandemic on sport across the member states and , based on the results of this assessment , develop , if necessary , a european approach to cope with the challenges and mitigate the unforeseen consequences;


### 14. calls for a structured and systematic exchange of best practices between member states in dealing with the effects of the crisis on sports; ### 14. calls for a structured and systematic exchange of best practices between member states in dealing with the effects of the crisis on sports; in this regards , considers it essential to support the collection and analysis of data and information on sport participation and the impact of covid 19;


### 17. considers that different sports have been affected to different degrees and that , within certain sports , smaller clubs and grassroots sport have suffered in particular; underlines the importance of solidarity within the european sports community across different sports and within sports. ### 17. considers that different sports have been affected to different degrees and that , within certain sports , smaller clubs and lower division competitions , as well as grassroots sport have suffered in particular; underlines the importance of solidarity within the european sports community across different sports and within sports.


### 17. considers that different sports have been affected to different degrees and that , within certain sports , smaller clubs and grassroots sport have suffered in particular; underlines the importance of solidarity within the european sports community across different sports and within sports. ### 17. considers that different sports have been affected to different degrees and that , within certain sports , smaller clubs and grassroots sport have been among the hardest hit; underlines the importance of solidarity within the european sports community across different sports and within sports.


### 1. calls for schools not to be closed and notes that straightforward organisational measures in schools are instead more appropriate for countering the risks posed by covid-19; ### 1. calls for schools not to be closed entirely and notes that a combination of measures are instead more appropriate for countering the risks posed by covid-19 , such as: distance learning , reorganisation of spaces within schools themselves , use of other nearby facilities with appropriate furnishings or other measures that allow schooling to continue;


### 1. welcomes the eu’s global response to the covid-19 pandemic , which demonstrates its ambition to lead and show solidarity with all partner countries; points out , however , that current funds are essentially reallocated from other budget lines and that the challenge of aid front-loading has to be tackled; calls , therefore , for substantial new funds to be mobilised to assist developing countries worldwide in fighting the direct and indirect consequences of the covid-19 pandemic; stresses that making safe vaccines available globally in a fast and affordable manner must be one of the first steps; ### 1. welcomes the eu’s global response to the covid-19 pandemic , which demonstrates its ambition to lead and show solidarity with all partner countries; points out , however , that current funds are essentially reallocated from other budget lines and that the challenge of aid front-loading has to be tackled; calls , therefore , for substantial new funds to be mobilised to assist developing countries worldwide in fighting the direct and indirect consequences of the covid-19 pandemic; stresses that making safe vaccines available globally in a fast , equitable and affordable manner must be one of the first steps;


### 2. notes that there should be no shutdowns within the arts and culture sector; ### 2. notes that the arts and culture sector should remain open and that the closure of facilities in the sector should be a last resort , since cultural offerings and enjoyment of the arts are essential for society;


### 6. calls for measures to be promoted in a targeted fashion to bring about proper awareness of covid-19 so that populations are given a basic understanding of the threat but do not give in to panic , societies continue to function as far as possible , economies do not collapse , and particularly vulnerable groups are safeguarded in their everyday lives; ### 6. calls for measures to be promoted in a targeted fashion to bring about proper awareness of covid-19 so that populations are given a basic understanding of the threat but do not give in to panic , societies continue to function , as far as possible , in line with the protocols put in place by the health authorities , economies do not collapse , and particularly vulnerable groups are safeguarded in their everyday lives;


### 6. underlines that global extreme poverty is expected to rise dramatically in 2020 for the first time in over 20 years , with the covid-19 pandemic compounding the forces of conflict and climate change and having a particularly hard impact on informal and migrant workers (who represent one quarter of the global workforce) , the tourism sector and latin american and caribbean economies; highlights , against the backdrop of this extreme crisis , the importance of universal social protection; asks the commission to work out strategies with partner countries for the economic recovery and job creation and for improving social security systems; ### 6. underlines that global extreme poverty is expected to rise dramatically in 2020 for the first time in over 20 years , especially for children with the covid-19 pandemic compounding the forces of conflict and climate change and having a particularly hard impact on women and girls with an expected additional 47 million of them living in extreme poverty by 2021 informal and migrant workers (who represent one quarter of the global workforce) , the tourism sector and latin american and caribbean economies; highlights , against the backdrop of this extreme crisis , the importance of universal social protection; asks the commission to work out strategies with partner countries for the economic recovery and job creation and for improving social security systems;


### 8. calls for measures to be promoted to make sporting activities more attractive , sport being a suitable way of warding off viral infections in the first place; ### 8. calls for the promotion of outdoor sports activities , sport being a suitable way of warding off viral infections in the first place; and also for sports facilities to remain open , regard always being had to the advice given by the health authorities , as such facilities are beneficial to health and the community;


### 8. calls for the revision of proposed or existing strategies with the aim of further strengthening health systems in partner countries , in particular as regards preparedness for pandemics and the organisation and management of health systems , including the provision of universal healthcare , health monitoring and information , training of medical staff , diagnostic capacity and medicine supply; ### 8. underlines that the covid-19 outbreak has exacerbated the persistent problem of medicine shortages globally , with acute consequences in developing countries; calls for the revision of proposed or existing strategies with the aim of further strengthening health systems in partner countries , in particular as regards preparedness for pandemics and the organisation and management of health systems , including the provision of universal healthcare , health monitoring and information , training of medical staff , diagnostic capacity and medicine supply;


### 8. calls for the revision of proposed or existing strategies with the aim of further strengthening health systems in partner countries , in particular as regards preparedness for pandemics and the organisation and management of health systems , including the provision of universal healthcare , health monitoring and information , training of medical staff , diagnostic capacity and medicine supply; ### 8. calls for the revision of proposed or existing strategies with the aim of further strengthening public health systems in partner countries , in particular as regards preparedness for pandemics and the organisation and management of health systems , including the provision of universal healthcare , health monitoring and information , training of medical staff , diagnostic capacity and medicine supply;


### 4. underlines that pastoral farming is an ecologically sound , local method of food production and is therefore part of a sustainable food system; considers it essential to support pastoralists by ensuring safe access to local markets during the pandemic in order to make sure that they are able to continue to provide protein-rich food to the local population , that their herds have access to water and grazing land and that mobile community one-health teams monitor the situation and carry out interventions in individual cases but also , where necessary , with a view to maintaining public health; calls for cash transfers and food aid for pastoralists , as well as feed aid for herds , as part of livelihood support in humanitarian aid , when this is needed; ### 4. underlines that pastoral farming is an ecologically sound , environmentally friendly local method of food production and is therefore part of a sustainable food system; points out that pastoralists are particularly vulnerable to food security disruptions and the impacts of climate change; considers it essential to support pastoralists by ensuring safe access to local markets during the pandemic in order to make sure that they are able to continue to provide protein-rich food to the local population , that their herds have access to water and grazing land and that mobile community one-health teams monitor the situation and carry out interventions in individual cases but also , where necessary , with a view to maintaining public health; calls for cash transfers and food aid for pastoralists , as well as feed aid for herds , as part of livelihood support in humanitarian aid , when this is needed;


### 5. emphasises the need to support the actions of the fao and the wfp aimed at mitigating hunger and loss of livelihood and building up resilient food systems , such as those to set up a global data facility for the provision of swift information on humanitarian needs , to provide food production assistance and access to food , to organise cash transfers and in-kind food distribution , to stabilise food systems , and to ensure the functioning of local food markets , value chains and systems while focusing on smallholder farmers by implementing sanitary measures in order to prevent the transmission of covid-19; ### 5. emphasises the need to support the actions of the fao and the wfp aimed at mitigating hunger and loss of livelihood and building up resilient food systems , such as those to set up a global data facility for the provision of swift information on humanitarian needs , to provide food production assistance and access to food , to organise cash transfers and in-kind food distribution , to stabilise food systems , and to ensure the functioning of local food markets , value chains and systems while focusing on smallholder farmers by implementing sanitary measures in order to prevent the transmission of covid-19 and to capture other different crises , economic downturns and conflicts such as the desert locus upsurge in eastern africa;


### 7. urges the commission to address the specific needs of refugees , upholding the guiding principle of public health networks of leaving no-one behind and refraining from blocking front-line humanitarian workers from having direct contact with the migrants and refugees they serve; stresses the absolute need for equal access to covid-19 treatment and other health services and safety net programmes for all affected people , regardless of nationality , migrant/refugee status , origin , sex , gender identity or any other characteristic; ### 7. notes that refugees and displaced persons are more vulnerable to the consequences of the crisis , as they are often faced with more precarious living conditions and tend to face greater obstacles in accessing basic health services than local populations; urges the commission to address the specific needs of refugees , upholding the guiding principle of public health networks of leaving no-one behind and refraining from blocking front-line humanitarian workers from having direct contact with the migrants and refugees they serve; stresses the absolute need for equal access to covid-19 treatment and other health services , vaccination and safety net programmes for all affected people , regardless of nationality , migrant/refugee status , origin , sex , gender identity or any other characteristic;


### 7. urges the commission to address the specific needs of refugees , upholding the guiding principle of public health networks of leaving no-one behind and refraining from blocking front-line humanitarian workers from having direct contact with the migrants and refugees they serve; stresses the absolute need for equal access to covid-19 treatment and other health services and safety net programmes for all affected people , regardless of nationality , migrant/refugee status , origin , sex , gender identity or any other characteristic; ### 7. urges the commission to address the specific needs of refugees , upholding the guiding principle of public health networks of leaving no-one behind and refraining from blocking front-line humanitarian workers from having direct contact with the migrants and refugees they serve; stresses the absolute need for equal access to covid-19 treatment and other health services and safety net programmes , particularly hiv and tb prevention and treatment services , for all affected people , regardless of nationality , migrant/refugee status , origin , sex , sexual orientation , gender identity , gender expression , sex characteristics or any other characteristic , so as to avert reversal in gains made on existing epidemics;


### 9. stresses the need to catch up on routine immunisation programmes as soon as possible and to provide adequate funding for initiatives such as gavi , the vaccine alliance , and cepi , the coalition for epidemic preparedness innovations; calls on the commission to ensure that the eu global response to the covid-19 pandemic does not undermine eu funding for other vital health programmes , including the minimum initial services package for sexual and reproductive health and programmes targeting the health of women and pregnant women; urges all countries and the commission to continue to provide services related to sexual and reproductive health and rights (srhr) as well as routine immunisation services , while ensuring the safety of communities and health workers; ### 9. stresses the need to catch up on routine immunisation programmes as soon as possible and to provide adequate funding for initiatives such as gavi , the vaccine alliance , and cepi , the coalition for epidemic preparedness innovations; calls on the commission to ensure that the eu global response to the covid-19 pandemic does not undermine eu funding for other vital health programmes , including the minimum initial services package for sexual and reproductive health and programmes targeting the health of women and pregnant women; urges all countries and the commission to continue to provide health care services related to sexual and reproductive health as well as routine immunisation services , while ensuring the safety of communities and health workers;


### 11. highlights the especially severe consequences of covid-19 lockdowns and the collateral damage that has been suffered by women , girls and children , in particular the rise in gender-based violence , but also the exposure of women to covid-19 due to their disproportionately high representation in the global health workforce; calls for action to counterbalance the disproportionate care burden borne by women and any potential roll-backs in safety , health , emancipation , economic independence and empowerment , and education , through specific programmes such as the spotlight initiative and by re-focusing european support; calls for meaningful participation of women in the decisions that impact their health and working lives; underlines the need to include the gender perspective in the eu’s covid-19 response , to advocate for inclusive decision-making bodies and collect sex- and age-disaggregated data for gender analysis; ### 11. highlights the especially severe consequences of covid-19 lockdowns and the collateral damage that has been suffered by women , girls and children , in particular the rise in gender-based violence , including female genital mutilation , but also the exposure of women to covid-19 due to their disproportionately high representation in the global health workforce; notes that in many partner countries women are employed in feminised sectors such as the garment industry and food production which have been hardest hit , with knock-on impacts for their families’ and communities’ poverty levels and the economic independence and health and safety of women and girls; emphasises the need for ndici to stimulate post crisis opportunities for women's employment; calls for action to counterbalance the disproportionate care burden borne by women and any potential roll-backs in safety , health , emancipation , economic independence and empowerment , and education , through specific programmes such as the spotlight initiative and by re-focusing european support; calls on the commission and the member states to ensure that financial support given to partner countries to cope with the crisis is also allocated to support women and girls; calls for meaningful participation of women in the decisions that impact their health and working lives; underlines the need to include the gender perspective in the eu’s covid-19 response , to advocate for inclusive decision-making bodies and collect sex- and age-disaggregated data for gender analysis;


### 12. is concerned that , since the beginning of the covid-19 crisis , many governments have used the emergency to justify placing restrictions on democratic processes and the civil space and to oppress minorities; draws attention to the growing negative impact of covid-19 on all human rights , democracy and the rule of law and calls , therefore , for the strengthening of aid , political dialogue and support for institution-building in all these fields , with particular attention to human rights defenders; ### 12. is concerned that , since the beginning of the covid-19 crisis , many governments have used the emergency to justify placing restrictions on democratic processes and the civil space including limiting humanitarian access , and to oppress minorities; draws attention to the growing negative impact of covid-19 on all human rights , democracy and the rule of law and calls , therefore , for the strengthening of aid , political dialogue and support for civil society and institution-building in all these fields , with particular attention to human rights defenders;


### 12. is concerned that , since the beginning of the covid-19 crisis , many governments have used the emergency to justify placing restrictions on democratic processes and the civil space and to oppress minorities; draws attention to the growing negative impact of covid-19 on all human rights , democracy and the rule of law and calls , therefore , for the strengthening of aid , political dialogue and support for institution-building in all these fields , with particular attention to human rights defenders; ### 12. is concerned that , since the beginning of the covid-19 crisis , many governments have used the emergency to justify placing restrictions on democratic processes and the civil space , including limiting humanitarian access and to oppress minorities; draws attention to the growing negative impact of covid-19 on all human rights , democracy and the rule of law and calls , therefore , for the strengthening of aid , political dialogue and support for institution-building in all these fields , with particular attention to human rights defenders;


### education ### education and digitalisation


### 15. underlines the fact that the covid-19 pandemic has led to unprecedented numbers of pupils missing out on months of schooling , constituting a major set-back to efforts in the education sector especially with regard to girls’ and women’s education; urges governments to use school closures only as a measure of last resort in the fight against the pandemic; presses for education to be kept as a spending priority in eu development policy and for due consideration to be given to the social function of schools; urges governments , in this context , to prioritise support for the most marginalised children and their families; recommends that eu countries share their approaches to keeping up teaching even in times of crisis and asks the eu and its member states to exploit the potential of remote and digital learning in their international support programmes; ### 15. underlines the fact that the covid-19 pandemic has led to unprecedented numbers of pupils missing out on months of schooling , constituting a major set-back to efforts in the education sector especially with regard to girls’ and women’s education; urges governments to use school closures only as a measure of last resort in the fight against the pandemic; supports the continuity of investment in education in humanitarian settings; presses for education to be kept as a spending priority in eu development policy and for due consideration to be given to the social function of schools; urges governments , in this context , to prioritise support for the most marginalised children and their families; recommends to support the actions of unicef and that eu countries share their approaches to keeping up teaching even in times of crisis and asks the eu and its member states to exploit the potential of remote and digital learning in their international support programmes and therefore supports open , secure and affordable access to the internet (including mobile data) and equal access , use and creation of digital technology , with a view to bridging the digital divides including the digital gender and age gaps , and to include those who are disadvantaged or marginalised by the digital transformation;


### 15. underlines the fact that the covid-19 pandemic has led to unprecedented numbers of pupils missing out on months of schooling , constituting a major set-back to efforts in the education sector especially with regard to girls’ and women’s education; urges governments to use school closures only as a measure of last resort in the fight against the pandemic; presses for education to be kept as a spending priority in eu development policy and for due consideration to be given to the social function of schools; urges governments , in this context , to prioritise support for the most marginalised children and their families; recommends that eu countries share their approaches to keeping up teaching even in times of crisis and asks the eu and its member states to exploit the potential of remote and digital learning in their international support programmes; ### 15. underlines the fact that the covid-19 pandemic has led to unprecedented numbers of pupils missing out on months of schooling , constituting a major set-back to efforts in the education sector especially with regard to girls’ and women’s education; urges governments to use school closures only as a measure of last resort in the fight against the pandemic; presses for education to be kept as a spending priority in eu development policy and for due consideration to be given to the social function of schools; urges governments , in this context , to prioritise support for the most marginalised children and their families; recommends that eu countries share their approaches to keeping up teaching even in times of crisis and asks the eu and its member states to exploit the potential of remote and digital learning in their international support programmes; encourages the continuation and prioritisation of education in emergencies during this time;


### 16. underlines the importance of assisting and exchanging best practice with partner countries in identifying vulnerabilities , building up prevention and crisis response mechanisms as well as protecting critical infrastructure in order better to deal with future systemic shocks of all kinds; ### 16. underlines the importance of assisting and exchanging best practice with partner countries and local civil society organisations in identifying vulnerabilities , building up prevention and crisis response mechanisms as well as protecting critical infrastructure in order better to deal with future systemic shocks of all kinds including a one health approach at the centre down to the community level in order to prevent or combat zoonoses;


### 17. points out that pandemics are often of zoonotic origin; underlines , therefore , the need to support education programmes regarding the dangers of hunting and trading in wild animals as well as the stricter protection of ecosystems and habitats; ### 17. points out that pandemics are often of zoonotic origin; underlines , therefore , the need to support education programmes regarding the dangers of hunting and trading in wild animals as well as the stricter protection and the restoration of ecosystems and habitats;


### 18. points out that , even in times of crisis , food production and distribution must be an absolute priority; considers that dependence on external sources of food , plants , seeds and fertilisers should be reduced , while local and diversified agricultural production should be increased , and knowledge about new , old and more resilient seeds shared; ### 18. points out that , even in times of crisis , food production and distribution must be an absolute priority; considers that dependence on external sources of food , plants , seeds and fertilisers should be reduced , while local and diversified agricultural production should be increased; welcomes in this regard the eu’s support for agroecology which needs to be further strengthened; calls for support to share knowledge about new , old and more resilient agro-ecological seeds;


### 1. calls on the commission to work with the member states to put the european pillar of social rights (epsr) at the heart of economic recovery programmes , in order to promote equal opportunities , women’s participation in the labour market , fair working conditions and sustainable social protection; ### 1. calls on the commission to work with the member states to put the european pillar of social rights (epsr) at the heart of economic recovery programmes; insists that the commission and the council integrate gender mainstreaming and gender budgeting in all aspects of the european pillar of social rights (epsr) in order to promote gender equality , equal opportunities , women’s participation in the labour market , fair working conditions and sustainable social protection for all and women’s involvement at all levels of decision-making processes;


### 2. asserts that an adequate education and training in transitions to environmentally and socially sustainable economies can become a strong driver of job creation , social justice and poverty eradication; ### 2. asserts that an adequate education and training in transitions to environmentally and socially sustainable economies can become a strong driver of job creation , social justice and poverty eradication and can contribute to the better matching with changing labour market needs;


### 2. calls on the commission and the member states to work on improving the situation of women in the covid-19 crisis and to adopt family-friendly policies; calls on the commission and the member states to launch an ambitious social and demographic investment plan to support member states’ efforts to improve available and affordable high-quality childcare , out-of-school care and long-term care infrastructures; ### 2. calls on the commission and the member states to work on improving the situation of women in the covid-19 crisis and to adopt family-friendly policies; calls on the commission and the member states to launch an ambitious social and demographic investment plan to support member states’ efforts to improve available and affordable high-quality childcare , out-of-school care and long-term care infrastructures; calls on the commission and the member states to make every effort to counter all forms of violence against women , children and the elderly , which has increased significantly owing to the restrictions put in place to address the pandemic , including by adopting the provisions of the istanbul convention;


### 2. calls on the commission and the member states to work on improving the situation of women in the covid-19 crisis and to adopt family-friendly policies; calls on the commission and the member states to launch an ambitious social and demographic investment plan to support member states’ efforts to improve available and affordable high-quality childcare , out-of-school care and long-term care infrastructures; ### 2. calls on the commission and the member states to work on improving the situation of women in the covid-19 crisis and to adopt family-friendly policies; calls on the commission and the member states to launch an ambitious social and demographic investment plan to support member states’ efforts to improve available and affordable high-quality childcare , out-of-school care and long-term care infrastructures; invites the ms and the commission to exploit all synergies in relevant eu financial instruments for development of necessary care infrastructure and services;


### 2. calls on the commission and the member states to work on improving the situation of women in the covid-19 crisis and to adopt family-friendly policies; calls on the commission and the member states to launch an ambitious social and demographic investment plan to support member states’ efforts to improve available and affordable high-quality childcare , out-of-school care and long-term care infrastructures; ### 2. calls on the commission and the council to closely examine women’s needs to promote gender equality in order to facilitate women’s participation in the labour market during and after the covid-19 crisis , calls for an ambitious social care strategy and demographic plan to improve available and affordable high-quality childcare , out-of-school care and long-term care infrastructures; urges the member states to fully transpose and implement the work-life balance directive;


### 3. emphasises that a transition to a more environmentally sustainable society requires skilled workers and believes that just transition funds should cover a strong investment in education , vocational education and training (vet) and retraining; ### 3. emphasises that a transition to a more environmentally sustainable society requires skilled and highly skilled labour and believes that just transition funds should cover a strong investment in all levels of education , including vocational education and training (vet) , upskilling and reskilling on-the-job retraining or a combination of part-time working and part-time retraining are to be prioritised to maximise the efficiency of support;


### 3. underlines that the commission and the member states must hold as a guiding principle that women and men should receive equal pay for equal work , especially when designing response measures to the covid-19 crisis; ### 3. underlines that the commission and the council must hold as a guiding principle that women and men should receive equal pay for equal work , also when designing response measures to the covid-19 crisis , which need to be gender mainstreamed; welcomes the commission’s commitment to present binding measures on pay transparency by the end of 2020 to effectively address gender pay and pension gaps , with women’s economic independence hampered by the crisis as initial reports suggest;


### 4. calls on the commission and the member states to empower women through high-quality , tailored digital education and individualised training and skill development; ### 4. calls on the commission and the member states to empower women through accessible high-quality , tailored digital education and individualised training and skill development; stresses in this regard on the need to foresee not only training and skill development online , but also specific training in the field;


### 4. calls on the commission and the member states to empower women through high-quality , tailored digital education and individualised training and skill development; ### 4. calls on member states to empower women through high-quality , tailored digital education and individualised training and skill development taking into account digitalization of economy and labour market to achieve gender balance;


### 5. calls for an enhanced university-business dialogue to allow for study in a sector where there will be jobs , particularly in vulnerable communities , regions and sectors; ### 5. calls for an enhanced university-business dialogue to improve study programmes where students acquire knowledge , competences and skills sought in the labour market , particularly for vulnerable people , communities and regions; and to improve the labour mobility of workers in order to avoid high levels of unemployment in affected regions;


### 5. calls on the commission and the member states to provide equal access to technology , education , training , employment , social protection systems and healthcare for all , especially for vulnerable groups such as persons with disabilities , women living in rural areas and elderly women , so they can fully benefit and actively participate in the life of their communities. ### 5. calls on the commission and the member states to provide equal access to technology , education , training , employment , social protection systems and healthcare for all , by taking due account of the needs of women , experiencing multiple discriminations , including women with disabilities , health problems , migrant and ethnic minority women , older women , women with lower education levels , single parents , women living in rural areas , as well as lgbtqi+ persons to increase their potential on the labour market and participation in social and civic life to ensure equal opportunities and to close the gender pay gap;.


### 5. calls on the commission and the member states to provide equal access to technology , education , training , employment , social protection systems and healthcare for all , especially for vulnerable groups such as persons with disabilities , women living in rural areas and elderly women , so they can fully benefit and actively participate in the life of their communities. ### 5. calls on the commission and the member states to provide equal access to technology , education , training , employment , social protection systems and healthcare for all , especially for vulnerable groups such as persons with disabilities , single parents , women living in rural areas and elderly women , so they can fully benefit and actively participate in the life of their communities.


### 6. calls on governments and employers to invest in programmes and measures to ensure that vulnerable individuals have the skills necessary for a successful transition to a zero-emission economy; ### 6. calls on governments and employers to invest in programmes and measures to ensure that vulnerable groups of individuals and those affected by the transitions in the labour market have the opportunity to acquire skills necessary for a successful transition to a zero-emission economy;


### 7. stresses that the european education area should include transversal training in skills related to the ecological and digital transition , as well as an adequate connection with the world of work , especially at the later levels of the curriculum. ### 7. stresses that the european education area should include training for promoting transversal skills related to the ecological and digital transition , as well as an adequate connection with the world of work , especially at the later levels of the curriculum;


### b. whereas women are disproportionately affected by the covid-19 pandemic as the majority of frontline workers are women (healthcare workers and childcare workers , for example) , as women are more likely than men to be in temporary , part-time or precarious employment , and as women carry out most unpaid work at home; whereas the pandemic has highlighted that family-friendly policies are a must; ### b. whereas women are disproportionately affected by the covid-19 pandemic , particularly women working in the precarious employment and in feminised sectors such as health , retail or care services; whereas implementation of adequate work-life balance policies and equal distribution of care responsibilities are indispensable to reconcile work , private and family life and to facilitate women’s equal participation in the labour market , as women remain mostly in charge with care responsibilities;


### b. whereas women are disproportionately affected by the covid-19 pandemic as the majority of frontline workers are women (healthcare workers and childcare workers , for example) , as women are more likely than men to be in temporary , part-time or precarious employment , and as women carry out most unpaid work at home; whereas the pandemic has highlighted that family-friendly policies are a must; ### b. whereas women are disproportionately affected by the covid-19 pandemic as the majority of frontline workers are women (healthcare workers and childcare workers , for example) , as women have a lower social standing , as women are more likely than men to be in temporary , part-time or precarious employment , meaning that their pensions are much smaller , and as women carry out most unpaid work at home; whereas the pandemic has highlighted that family-friendly policies are a must;


### d. whereas digital education and skills are key to adjusting to the digital transition of europe’s economy and society; whereas women are underrepresented in ict professions; ### d. whereas digital education and skills are key to adjusting to the digital transition of europe’s economy and society; whereas women are underrepresented in ict professions; whereas only 17% of ict specialists and 34% of stem graduates are women; whereas at the same time women in the information and communication sector earn 19% less than men; whereas in digital skills , there is a gender gap of 11% and whereas the gap is higher for above basic skills and especially for those above 55 years;


### 1. notes that , of almost 18 million scientists and engineers in the eu , 59 % are men and 41 % are women; ### 1. recalls that women are an untapped resource even in emerging fields , such as digital , ai and ict , with women accounting for just 16% of the almost 8 million people working in ict in europe; notes that increasing the number of women in the digital sector has the potential to contribute to women’s financial empowerment , resulting in the reduction of the total gender pay gap and the enhancement of women’s financial independence; emphasises that by integrating more women into the digital jobs market , there is potential fora €16 billion gdp boost to the european economy;


### 2. highlights the fact that there are major disparities in the eu with regard to schoolgirls’ attitude to stem careers , with only four out of every 100 schoolgirls in finland , for instance , seeking a stem career , while that figure is four times higher in latvia , and therefore proposes that more be learnt about the reasons for such disparities; ### 2. highlights the fact that there are major disparities in the eu with regard to schoolgirls’ attitude to stem careers and therefore proposes that best practices should be exchanged among member states how to attract more girls into stem , with the european union having a facilitating and coordinating function; recalls that in some countries the gap between schoolgirls and schoolboys in stem can be a result of a difference in behaviour , motivated by different factors , which should be analysed in greater depth;


### 2. highlights the fact that there are major disparities in the eu with regard to schoolgirls’ attitude to stem careers , with only four out of every 100 schoolgirls in finland , for instance , seeking a stem career , while that figure is four times higher in latvia , and therefore proposes that more be learnt about the reasons for such disparities; ### 2. highlights the fact that there are major disparities in the eu with regard to schoolgirls’ attitude to stem careers and therefore proposes that best practices should be exchanged among member states how to attract more girls into stem , with the european union having a facilitating and coordinating function;


### 3. stresses that in firms quoted on the german dax stock exchange , for example , 41 % of board members have a science degree and that , consequently , women continue to be correspondingly underrepresented right up to senior management level; ### deleted


### 4. points out that many jobs will be lost as a result of ai in future , affecting women and men to the same extent , which ought to be factored in to education policy now as a matter of urgency; ### 4. points out that the effects and the impact of the development and increase of ai in the labour market and education systems require a particular focus on how it will affect women`s education and career paths and choices made by girls; this should be taken into account in the educational plans to be designed , as well as in the programmes and curricula for students and in the training offers for teachers;


### 4. points out that many jobs will be lost as a result of ai in future , affecting women and men to the same extent , which ought to be factored in to education policy now as a matter of urgency; ### 4. points out that the effects and the impact of the development and increase of ai in the labour market and education systems require a particular focus on how it will affect women`s education and career paths and choices made by girls;


### 6. urges the commission and member states to encourage young people with a stem training qualification to set up their own businesses , in particular in the digital sector , and to support them in the process , women already being just as successful with start-ups as men; ### 6. urges the commission and member states to encourage young people with a stem training qualification to become entrepreneurs set up their own businesses , in particular in the digital and tech sector , and to support them in the process of becoming tech leaders; urges the commission to ensure equal access of women and men to all sorts of eu funding to stem related projects and start-ups;


### 6. welcomes the digital education action plan 2021-2027 and its action to ‘encourage women’s participation in stem’ , and hopes that it will help to develop more attractive and creative ways to encourage girls to pursue stem studies , as well as to boost women’s self-confidence in their digital skills; ### 6. welcomes the digital education action plan 2021-2027 and its action to ‘encourage women’s participation in stem’ , and hopes that it will help to develop more attractive and creative ways to encourage girls to pursue stem studies , as well as to boost women’s self-confidence in their digital skills; calling to use eu funds and programmes , including erasmus+ , to effectively support lifelong learning and training in stem sectors as well as for gender equality to be duly incorporated in the future eu youth strategy and policies;


### 7. encourages member states to back initiatives for the networking of women in stem occupations and for fostering cooperation between industry and higher education. ### 7. encourages member states and the european union to develop a strategy on how to support and promote the networking of women in stem education and occupation and for fostering cooperation between industry and education institutions such as schools and universities.


### d. whereas the low numbers of women who work in innovative technologies , such as artificial intelligence (ai) , can negatively affect the design , development and implementation of these technologies , causing the replication of existing discriminatory practices and stereotypes , and the development of ‘gender-biased algorithms’; ### d. whereas the underrepresentation of women who work in innovative technologies , such as artificial intelligence (ai) , can negatively affect the design , development and implementation of these technologies , causing the replication of existing discriminatory practices and stereotypes , and the development of ‘gender-biased algorithms’;


### 8. highlights that male teachers and other male staff dominate stem-related studies in schools and , later on , in universities and workplaces , leading to an absence of female role models and limited guidance and mentoring opportunities; encourages gender mainstreaming in primary , secondary and tertiary education , and urges the committees and institutions involved in recruitment to promote gender balance to avoid the ‘outsider effect’; ### 8. highlights that male teachers and other male staff dominate stem-related studies in schools and , later on , in universities and workplaces , leading to an absence of female role models and limited guidance and mentoring opportunities; encourages gender mainstreaming in primary , secondary and tertiary education , calls for a better career guidance and for new and creative ways to inspire female students to consider a stem career path and urges the committees and institutions involved in recruitment to promote gender balance to avoid the ‘outsider effect’;


### 10. regrets the fact that women face disproportionately more obstacles in their careers than men do , owing to the lack of a proper work-life balance and an increase in unpaid care work in most households; urges public and private institutions to establish adequate measures to guarantee better maternity and paternity leaves , flexible working hours , on-site childcare facilities or to promote telework; urges the member states to fully transpose and implement the work-life balance directive and calls on the commission to monitor it effectively; calls on the commission and the member states to fully assess the causes and factors that lead to a high drop-out rate of women from stem careers , and to develop mechanisms and programmes to integrate women and girls into education , training and employment initiatives; ### 10. regrets the fact that women face disproportionately more obstacles in their careers than men do , owing to the lack of a proper work-life balance and an increase in unpaid care work in most households; urges public and private institutions to establish better work-life balance policies and adequate measures to guarantee better maternity and significantly more and longer paternity leaves , flexible working hours , on-site childcare facilities or telework; urges the member states to fully transpose and implement the work-life balance directive and calls on the commission to monitor it effectively; calls on the commission and the member states to fully assess the causes and factors that lead to a high drop-out rate of women from stem careers , and to develop mechanisms and programmes to integrate women and girls into education , training and employment initiatives;


### 15. highlights that one of ai’s most critical weaknesses relates to certain types of biases such as gender , race or sexual orientation as a result of humans’ inherent biases; encourages the relevant actors to take action and promote a greater role for women in the design , development and implementation of machine learning , natural language processing and ai; ### 15. considers that ai can significantly contribute to promote gender equality , provided that an appropriate legal framework is developed , that conscious and unconscious biases are eliminated; highlights that one of ai’s most critical weaknesses relates to certain types of biases such as gender , race or sexual orientation as a result of humans’ inherent biases; encourages the relevant actors to take action and promote a greater role for women in the design , development and implementation of machine learning , natural language processing and ai;


### 18. regrets the fact that women are under-represented in innovation-driven business start-ups and highlights the gender biases and systemic disadvantages that exist in social structures , in particular in those at the intersection of stem and entrepreneurship; ### 18. regrets the fact that women are under-represented in innovation-driven business start-ups and highlights the gender biases and systemic disadvantages that exist in social structures , in particular in those at the intersection of stem and entrepreneurship; also considers it to be of the utmost relevance to have more women role models and to increase the number of women in leadership positions in the stem sector;


### 20. calls on the commission and the member states to increase financing opportunities for female start-up entrepreneurs and innovators , to facilitate their access to existing funds , create special funds and look for new and innovative ways to financially support them and help them to overcome the barriers they face; ### 20. calls on the commission and the member states to increase financing opportunities for female entrepreneurs and innovators through eu programmes , to loans and equity finance , to facilitate their access to existing funds , create special funds and look for new and innovative ways to financially support them and help them to overcome the barriers they face; calls to include the european investment bank in terms of access to microfinance as well;


### 1. recalls the particularly close historical ties binding the european union (eu) and africa , and the eu’s major contribution both in terms of development aid1 and in the smooth functioning of the african union (au)2; ### 1. recalls the particularly close historical ties binding the european union (eu) and africa , and that an equal and sustainable cooperation based on political dialogue , joint ownership , solidarity and mutual confidence is paramount for tackling common challenges and achieving shared goal. recalls that the eu is the world’s leading donor of development and humanitarian aid and that the union's action on the international scene shall be guided by the principles of democracy , the rule of law , respects of human rights , the principles of equality and solidarity;


### 1. underlines that europe and africa are in close geographical proximity , have strong historical and cultural ties and are being brought ever closer by the increase in trade and shared challenges , which call for a continental-african approach and result-oriented use of eu resources; ### 1. underlines that europe and africa are in close geographical proximity , have strong historical and cultural ties and are being brought ever closer by the increase in trade and shared challenges , including but not limited to migration , fundamentalism , terrorism and violations of international law , which call for a continental-african approach and result-oriented use of eu resources;


### 1. underlines that europe and africa are in close geographical proximity , have strong historical and cultural ties and are being brought ever closer by the increase in trade and shared challenges , which call for a continental-african approach and result-oriented use of eu resources; ### 1. underlines that europe and africa are in close geographical proximity , have strong historical and cultural ties and are being brought ever closer by a shifting geopolitical order , by the increase in trade and shared challenges such as the fight against the covid-19 pandemic , which call for a reinvigorated political alliance and a results-oriented allocation of eu resources


### 1. notes the communication of 9 march 2020 entitled ‘towards a comprehensive strategy with africa’; ### 1. welcomes the commission’s communication “towards a comprehensive strategy with africa” of 9 march and sees it as a step towards a truly geopolitical partnership; recalls that together the eu and africa face a lot of challenges , ranging from climate change and energy issues , reforming multilateral institutions and global trade , advancing human and civil rights through the advancement of democracy , lifting communities out of poverty , providing decent living conditions through the provision of economic and employment opportunities , quality education , advancing public health and access to health care , to the combat against armed groups , terrorism , as well as human trafficking in order to ensure stability and peace , and that only by acting together we will reach our common objectives; emphasises that the eu’s relations with africa are of utmost importance for the future of both our continents and that our future relations must go beyond the traditional development and humanitarian cooperation and should be based on a clear understanding of our respective and mutual interests and responsibilities , reflecting the comprehensiveness and maturity of our relations;


### 1. notes the communication of 9 march 2020 entitled ‘towards a comprehensive strategy with africa’; ### 1. welcomes the communication of 9 march 2020 entitled ‘towards a comprehensive strategy with africa’; stresses that the upcoming eu-au summit in october should lay the foundation for a strategic , win-win and result-oriented partnership;


### 2. calls for the strengthening of efforts to combat corruption – constituting as it does a major obstacle to effective development , preventing africa’s peoples from fully benefiting from the effects of joint eu-au policies – to be taken into account in the comprehensive strategy with africa; ### 2. recognises that corruption is a complex global phenomenon which hampers efforts aimed at promoting democratic governance , socio-economic transformation , sustainable development , peace and security and may lead to many human rights violations; calls for the strengthening of efforts to combat corruption and staggering inequalities – constituting as it does a major obstacle to effective development , preventing africa’s peoples from fully benefiting from the effects of joint eu-au policies – to be taken into account in the comprehensive strategy with africa; recommends eu and au to better implement and enforce the existing national and international anti-corruption instruments and to make use of new technologies and digital services; highlights that the fight against corruption should also include measures to fight money-laundering , tax evasion and illicit financial flows;


### 2. calls for the development of a genuine partnership between equals , and urges both sides to move beyond the donor-recipient relationship; emphasises the importance of liaising with our african partners and of defining clearly the roadmap for the partnership and the responsibilities of each side; ### 2. calls for the development of a genuine partnership between equals based on international law and international conventions , agreements and standards , and urges both sides to move beyond the donor-recipient relationship; emphasises the importance of liaising with our african partners and of defining clearly the roadmap for the partnership and the responsibilities of each side;


### 2. calls for the development of a genuine partnership between equals , and urges both sides to move beyond the donor-recipient relationship; emphasises the importance of liaising with our african partners and of defining clearly the roadmap for the partnership and the responsibilities of each side; ### 2. calls for the development of a genuine partnership between equals , and urges both sides to move beyond the donor-recipient relationship; emphasises the importance of liaising with our african partners and of defining clearly the roadmap for the equal partnership and the responsibilities of each side;


### 3. considers that the issue of migration must be prioritised in a context in which more than half of all asylum applications in the eu are rejected in a final court decision3 ; takes the view , therefore , that we must focus on making returns more effective by signing readmission agreements and issuing consular laissez-passers; ### deleted


### 3. considers that the issue of migration must be prioritised in a context in which more than half of all asylum applications in the eu are rejected in a final court decision3; takes the view , therefore , that we must focus on making returns more effective by signing readmission agreements and issuing consular laissez-passers; ### 3. considers that the issue of migration must be prioritised in a context in which more than half of all asylum applications in the eu are rejected in a final court decision3 and are , therefore , unfounded; recalls that only a minority of unsuccessful asylum seekers are actually removed from european soil; asks therefore for the focus to be on making returns more effective by signing readmission agreements and issuing consular laissez-passers , but also on implementation of development programmes to combat the root causes of illegal migration and reintegrate asylum seekers on a long-term basis into the society to which they are returned;


### 3. stresses that the coronavirus crisis must prompt both continents to commit to a partnership that takes full account of its consequences and paves the way for a sustainable and inclusive recovery focused on human development and faster transitions , including green and digital transitions; ### 3. stresses that the coronavirus crisis must prompt both continents to commit to a partnership that takes full account of its consequences and paves the way for a sustainable and inclusive recovery focused on human development and faster transitions , including green and digital transitions; recalls the detrimental impacts of the covid-19 crisis , both in terms of health , but also in economic terms , and therefore reiterates its call to provide to those african states which ask for it an increased support in the health sector; strongly supports the strong eu response to the crisis through the “team europe” approach and sees it as a true sign of global solidarity and european values , and strongly welcomes the announcement by the g20 to suspend all debt payments for the world's poorest countries until the end of 2020;


### 3. stresses that the coronavirus crisis must prompt both continents to commit to a partnership that takes full account of its consequences and paves the way for a sustainable and inclusive recovery focused on human development and faster transitions , including green and digital transitions; ### 3. stresses that the coronavirus crisis must prompt both continents to commit to a partnership that takes full account of its consequences and paves the way for a sustainable and inclusive recovery focused on human development , notably in terms of education and health and faster transitions , including green and digital transitions;


### 3. stresses that the coronavirus crisis must prompt both continents to commit to a partnership that takes full account of its consequences and paves the way for a sustainable and inclusive recovery focused on human development and faster transitions , including green and digital transitions; ### 3. stresses that the coronavirus crisis must prompt both continents to commit to a partnership that takes full account of its consequences and paves the way for a sustainable and inclusive recovery focused on human development , sustainable growth , good governance and faster transitions , including green and digital transitions;


### 4. supports the digitisation and modernisation of public administration in african countries , in particular with a view to developing reliable civil registration agencies and promoting data exchange so as to combat terrorism and organised crime; ### 4. supports the digitisation and modernisation of public administration in african countries , in particular with a view to providing for equal access and equal opportunities for all citizens , thus stabilising democracy; calls for the strengthening of efforts to promoting data exchange so as to combat terrorism , transnational and organised crime , including cybercrime and trafficking in human beings; all data exchanged must be subject to relevant data protection and privacy laws


### 4. supports the digitisation and modernisation of public administration in african countries , in particular with a view to developing reliable civil registration agencies and promoting data exchange so as to combat terrorism and organised crime; ### 4. supports the digitisation and modernisation of public administration in african countries , in particular with a view to developing reliable civil registration agencies , secure identity documents , and promoting data exchange so as to combat terrorism and organised crime;