### 58. calls on the eu to increase its support for democratic civic activism , which has grown since 2019 in the context of the rise of populism and authoritarian regimes; highlights , in this regard , democracy support activities implemented by parliament , including election monitoring , mediation , training and mentoring programmes , that need to be adapted to the evolving situation of partner countries; ### 58. calls on the eu to increase its support for democratic civic activism , which has grown since 2019 in the context of the rise of populism , nationalism and authoritarian regimes; highlights , in this regard , democracy support activities implemented by parliament , including election monitoring , mediation , training and mentoring programmes , that need to be adapted to the evolving situation of partner countries;


### 58. calls on the eu to increase its support for democratic civic activism , which has grown since 2019 in the context of the rise of populism and authoritarian regimes; highlights , in this regard , democracy support activities implemented by parliament , including election monitoring , mediation , training and mentoring programmes , that need to be adapted to the evolving situation of partner countries; ### 58. calls on the eu to increase its support for democratic civic activism , which has grown since 2019 in the context of the rise of populism and authoritarian regimes; highlights , in this regard , democracy support activities implemented by parliament , including election monitoring , mediation , training and mentoring programmes , that need to be adapted to the evolving situation of partner countries , while taking into account the cultural and national backgrounds of the third countries in order to strengthen the dialogue and partnership;


### d. whereas , by way of illustration , the crisis caused by the pandemic has led most countries to adopt emergency measures , curtailing freedoms to enjoy many human rights , foremost among which are the freedoms of movement and of assembly , or to establish new means of surveillance in order to prevent the transmission of the covid-19 virus; whereas those measures have legitimately raised questions as to their necessity , legality , proportionality , non-discriminatory nature and duration , in the spirit of safeguarding fundamental freedoms in the short and longer terms; ### deleted


### d. whereas , by way of illustration , the crisis caused by the pandemic has led most countries to adopt emergency measures , curtailing freedoms to enjoy many human rights , foremost among which are the freedoms of movement and of assembly , or to establish new means of surveillance in order to prevent the transmission of the covid-19 virus; whereas those measures have legitimately raised questions as to their necessity , legality , proportionality , non-discriminatory nature and duration , in the spirit of safeguarding fundamental freedoms in the short and longer terms; ### d. whereas , by way of illustration , the crisis caused by the pandemic has led most countries to adopt emergency measures , curtailing freedoms to enjoy many human rights , foremost among which are the freedoms of movement and of assembly , or to establish new means of surveillance in order to prevent the transmission of the covid-19 virus; whereas those measures have legitimately raised questions as to their necessity , legality , proportionality , non-discriminatory nature and duration , in the spirit of safeguarding fundamental freedoms in the short and longer terms , and in many cases these measures were not removed once the covid-19 situation was brought under control;


### e. whereas the global recession caused by the pandemic creates the temptation for governments to respond by giving priority to stimulating economic activity and attracting investments , while lowering their level of ambition in terms of political objectives and standards for some other areas , such as the protection of human rights and climate action; ### deleted


### e. whereas the global recession caused by the pandemic creates the temptation for governments to respond by giving priority to stimulating economic activity and attracting investments , while lowering their level of ambition in terms of political objectives and standards for some other areas , such as the protection of human rights and climate action; ### e. whereas the global recession caused by the pandemic resulted in understandable focus on stimulating economic activity and attracting investments , it also led to regretful lowering of governments' levels of ambition in terms of political objectives and standards for some other areas , such as the protection of human rights , climate action and the fight against poverty , especially of children and their families;


### e. whereas the global recession caused by the pandemic creates the temptation for governments to respond by giving priority to stimulating economic activity and attracting investments , while lowering their level of ambition in terms of political objectives and standards for some other areas , such as the protection of human rights and climate action; ### e. whereas the global recession caused by the pandemic may lead to the need for governments to prioritise stimulating economic activity and attracting investments , consequently lowering their level of ambition in terms of political objectives and standards for some other areas , such as the protection of human rights and climate action;


### 7. welcomes the growing aspirations and mobilisations of citizens , in particular the youngest citizens , for political and societal changes favourable to respect for human rights , democratic governance , equality and social justice , more ambitious climate action and better protection of the environment; highlights the emergence in 2019 of massive protest movements in every region in the world reflecting these aspirations , calling into question institutional and economic orders of societies and supporting the development of a more equitable global society; ### 7. is aware of the growing aspirations and mobilisations of citizens , in particular the youngest citizens , for political and societal changes favourable to respect for human rights , democratic governance , equality and social justice , more ambitious climate action and better protection of the environment; highlights the emergence in 2019 of massive protest movements in every region in the world reflecting these aspirations , demanding change in institutional and economic orders of societies and supporting the development of a more equitable global society;


### 7. welcomes the growing aspirations and mobilisations of citizens , in particular the youngest citizens , for political and societal changes favourable to respect for human rights , democratic governance , equality and social justice , more ambitious climate action and better protection of the environment; highlights the emergence in 2019 of massive protest movements in every region in the world reflecting these aspirations , calling into question institutional and economic orders of societies and supporting the development of a more equitable global society; ### 7. welcomes the growing interest of citizens for political and societal changes favourable to respect for human rights , democratic governance , equality and social justice , more ambitious climate action and better protection of the environment;


### 7. welcomes the growing aspirations and mobilisations of citizens , in particular the youngest citizens , for political and societal changes favourable to respect for human rights , democratic governance , equality and social justice , more ambitious climate action and better protection of the environment; highlights the emergence in 2019 of massive protest movements in every region in the world reflecting these aspirations , calling into question institutional and economic orders of societies and supporting the development of a more equitable global society; ### 7. welcomes the growing aspirations and mobilisations of citizens , in particular the youngest citizens , for political and societal changes favourable to respect for human rights , democratic governance and better protection of the environment;


### 7. welcomes the growing aspirations and mobilisations of citizens , in particular the youngest citizens , for political and societal changes favourable to respect for human rights , democratic governance , equality and social justice , more ambitious climate action and better protection of the environment; highlights the emergence in 2019 of massive protest movements in every region in the world reflecting these aspirations , calling into question institutional and economic orders of societies and supporting the development of a more equitable global society; ### 7. welcomes the growing aspirations and mobilisations of citizens , in particular the youngest citizens , for political and societal changes favourable to respect for human rights , democratic governance , equality and social justice , more ambitious climate action and better protection of the environment;


### 7. welcomes the growing aspirations and mobilisations of citizens , in particular the youngest citizens , for political and societal changes favourable to respect for human rights , democratic governance , equality and social justice , more ambitious climate action and better protection of the environment; highlights the emergence in 2019 of massive protest movements in every region in the world reflecting these aspirations , calling into question institutional and economic orders of societies and supporting the development of a more equitable global society; ### 7. welcomes the growing aspirations and mobilisations of citizens , in particular the youngest citizens , for political and societal changes favourable to respect for human rights , democratic governance , equality and social justice , more ambitious climate action and better protection of the environment; highlights the emergence in 2019 of massive protest movements in every region in the world reflecting these aspirations , demanding awareness of climate change and action to combat it , and supporting the development of a more equitable global society;


### 7. welcomes the growing aspirations and mobilisations of citizens , in particular the youngest citizens , for political and societal changes favourable to respect for human rights , democratic governance , equality and social justice , more ambitious climate action and better protection of the environment; highlights the emergence in 2019 of massive protest movements in every region in the world reflecting these aspirations , calling into question institutional and economic orders of societies and supporting the development of a more equitable global society; ### 7. welcomes the growing aspirations and mobilisations of citizens , in particular the youngest citizens , for political and societal changes favourable to respect for human rights , democratic governance , equality and social justice , more ambitious climate action and better protection of the environment; highlights the emergence in 2019 of massive protest movements in every region in the world reflecting these aspirations , calling into question institutional and economic orders of societies and supporting the development of a more equitable global society; stresses the importance of maintaining the peaceful nature of these protest actions; insists that positive change must only take place through dialogue and all solutions must be reached through inclusive negotiations;


### 8. deems essential the political responses to the legitimate demands of societies and individuals that are based on inclusive dialogue; condemns , on the other hand , the repression of peaceful movements , in particular through the excessive use of force by security agents , which certain governments have inflicted on their populations with a view to stifling democratic voices; ### 8. condemns , on the other hand , the repression of peaceful movements , in particular through the excessive use of force by security agents , which certain governments have inflicted on their populations with a view to stifling democratic voices;


### 8. deems essential the political responses to the legitimate demands of societies and individuals that are based on inclusive dialogue; condemns , on the other hand , the repression of peaceful movements , in particular through the excessive use of force by security agents , which certain governments have inflicted on their populations with a view to stifling democratic voices; ### 8. deems essential the political responses to the legitimate demands of societies , families and individuals that are based on inclusive dialogue; condemns , on the other hand , the repression of peaceful movements , in particular through the disproportionate use of force by security agents , which certain governments have inflicted on their populations with a view to stifling democratic voices; at the same time , shows its concern about radicalised groups that take the opportunity of demonstrations and expressions of social movements to hijack their legitimate goals , through violence and disruption of daily life of citizens and public services , intimidating individuals and attacking private and public buildings;


### 9. stresses that physical attacks , imprisonments , death threats , harassment , intimidation and restrictions on freedom of expression remain tools systematically used around the world against human rights defenders (hrds) , non-governmental organisations (ngos) and civil society activists and journalists; underlines the existence of political trends towards deeper nationalism and the misuse of religion for political gain , which are conducive to intolerance , in particular towards hrds , women , lgbti people and migrants; ### 9. stresses that physical attacks , imprisonments , death threats , harassment , intimidation and restrictions on freedom of expression remain tools systematically used around the world against human rights defenders (hrds) , non-governmental organisations (ngos) and civil society activists , people belonging to religious communities and associations and church-engaged benevolent individuals doing development and humanitarian work and journalists;


### 9. stresses that physical attacks , imprisonments , death threats , harassment , intimidation and restrictions on freedom of expression remain tools systematically used around the world against human rights defenders (hrds) , non-governmental organisations (ngos) and civil society activists and journalists; underlines the existence of political trends towards deeper nationalism and the misuse of religion for political gain , which are conducive to intolerance , in particular towards hrds , women , lgbti people and migrants; ### 9. stresses that physical attacks , imprisonments , death threats , harassment , intimidation and restrictions on freedom of expression remain tools systematically used around the world against human rights defenders (hrds) , non-governmental organisations (ngos) and civil society activists and journalists;


### 9. stresses that physical attacks , imprisonments , death threats , harassment , intimidation and restrictions on freedom of expression remain tools systematically used around the world against human rights defenders (hrds) , non-governmental organisations (ngos) and civil society activists and journalists; underlines the existence of political trends towards deeper nationalism and the misuse of religion for political gain , which are conducive to intolerance , in particular towards hrds , women , lgbti people and migrants; ### 9. stresses that physical attacks , imprisonments , death threats , harassment , intimidation and restrictions on freedom of expression remain tools systematically used around the world against human rights defenders (hrds) , non-governmental organisations (ngos) , religious and belief minorities and civil society activists and journalists; underlines the existence of political trends towards deeper nationalism and the misuse of religion for political gain , which are conducive to intolerance , in particular towards hrds , women , lgbti people , religious and belief minorities and migrants;


### 9. stresses that physical attacks , imprisonments , death threats , harassment , intimidation and restrictions on freedom of expression remain tools systematically used around the world against human rights defenders (hrds) , non-governmental organisations (ngos) and civil society activists and journalists; underlines the existence of political trends towards deeper nationalism and the misuse of religion for political gain , which are conducive to intolerance , in particular towards hrds , women , lgbti people and migrants; ### 9. stresses that physical attacks , imprisonments , death threats , harassment , intimidation and restrictions on freedom of expression remain tools systematically used around the world against human rights defenders (hrds) , non-governmental organisations (ngos) , religious and belief minorities and civil society activists and journalists; underlines the existence of political trends towards deeper nationalism and the misuse of religion for political gain , which are conducive to intolerance , in particular towards hrds , women , lgbti people and migrants;


### 9. stresses that physical attacks , imprisonments , death threats , harassment , intimidation and restrictions on freedom of expression remain tools systematically used around the world against human rights defenders (hrds) , non-governmental organisations (ngos) and civil society activists and journalists; underlines the existence of political trends towards deeper nationalism and the misuse of religion for political gain , which are conducive to intolerance , in particular towards hrds , women , lgbti people and migrants; ### 9. stresses that physical attacks , imprisonments , death threats , harassment , intimidation and restrictions on freedom of expression remain tools systematically used around the world against human rights defenders (hrds) , non-governmental organisations (ngos) and civil society activists and journalists; underlines the existence of political trends towards deeper nationalism , protectionism and intolerance , in particular towards hrds , women , lgbti people and migrants;


### 9. stresses that physical attacks , imprisonments , death threats , harassment , intimidation and restrictions on freedom of expression remain tools systematically used around the world against human rights defenders (hrds) , non-governmental organisations (ngos) and civil society activists and journalists; underlines the existence of political trends towards deeper nationalism and the misuse of religion for political gain , which are conducive to intolerance , in particular towards hrds , women , lgbti people and migrants; ### 9. stresses that physical attacks , imprisonments , death threats , harassment , intimidation and restrictions on freedom of expression remain tools systematically used around the world against human rights defenders (hrds) , non-governmental organisations (ngos) and civil society activists and journalists; underlines the existence of political trends towards deeper nationalism and the misuse of religion for political gain , which are conducive to intolerance , in particular towards hrds , climate activists , women , lgbti people , religious minorities , persons with disabilities and migrants;


### 9. stresses that physical attacks , imprisonments , death threats , harassment , intimidation and restrictions on freedom of expression remain tools systematically used around the world against human rights defenders (hrds) , non-governmental organisations (ngos) and civil society activists and journalists; underlines the existence of political trends towards deeper nationalism and the misuse of religion for political gain , which are conducive to intolerance , in particular towards hrds , women , lgbti people and migrants; ### 9. stresses that physical attacks , imprisonments , death threats , harassment , intimidation and restrictions on freedom of expression remain tools systematically used around the world against human rights defenders (hrds) , non-governmental organisations (ngos) and civil society activists and journalists; underlines the existence of political trends towards deeper nationalism and the misuse of religion for political gain , which are conducive to intolerance , in particular towards hrds , women , lgbti people , religious and belief minorities and migrants;


### 9. stresses that physical attacks , imprisonments , death threats , harassment , intimidation and restrictions on freedom of expression remain tools systematically used around the world against human rights defenders (hrds) , non-governmental organisations (ngos) and civil society activists and journalists; underlines the existence of political trends towards deeper nationalism and the misuse of religion for political gain , which are conducive to intolerance , in particular towards hrds , women , lgbti people and migrants; ### 9. stresses that physical attacks , imprisonments , death threats , harassment , intimidation and restrictions on freedom of expression remain tools systematically used around the world against human rights defenders (hrds) , non-governmental organisations (ngos) and civil society activists and journalists; underlines the existence of political trends towards deeper nationalism and the misuse of religion for political gain , which are conducive to intolerance , in particular towards hrds , women , lgbti people , migrants , minorities and roma people;


### 10. stresses that it is the duty of eu institutions to actively support organisations and individuals engaged in defending democracy and human rights; underlines in this regard the importance of parliament’s action in making their voice heard and in obtaining the release of hrds detained as a result of their activism; ### 10. notes the importance that eu institutions support organisations and individuals engaged peacefully in defending democracy and human rights; underlines in this regard the importance of parliament’s action in making their voice heard and in obtaining the release of hrds detained as a result of their peaceful activism;


### 10. stresses that it is the duty of eu institutions to actively support organisations and individuals engaged in defending democracy and human rights; underlines in this regard the importance of parliament’s action in making their voice heard and in obtaining the release of hrds detained as a result of their activism; ### 10. stresses that it is the duty of eu institutions to actively support organisations and individuals engaged in defending democracy and human rights; underlines in this regard the importance of parliament’s action in making their voice heard and pressuring in third countries’ authorities to immediately and unconditionally release hrds detained as a result of their activism;


### 10. stresses that it is the duty of eu institutions to actively support organisations and individuals engaged in defending democracy and human rights; underlines in this regard the importance of parliament’s action in making their voice heard and in obtaining the release of hrds detained as a result of their activism; ### 10. stresses that it is the duty of eu institutions to actively support organisations and individuals engaged in defending democracy and human rights; underlines in this regard the importance of parliament’s action in making their voice heard and in obtaining the release of hrds detained as a result of their activism; supports the work of european political foundations in strengthening democratic processes and fostering a new generation of political leaders around the world;


### 11. is seriously concerned at the persistence of the scourge of wars and military conflicts which give way to grave violations of international humanitarian law and human rights , in particular mass killings and forced displacements of civilian populations; strongly condemns the engagement of authoritarian powers in proxy wars and stresses that political solutions are a prerequisite for sustainable peace; expresses deep concerns at heightened international political tensions , and in certain regions of the world , at the increased activity of non-state armed groups and terrorist organisations and the development of communal violence; ### 11. is seriously concerned at the persistence of the scourge of wars and military conflicts , amounting even to genocides against religious minorities , which give way to grave violations of international humanitarian law and human rights , in particular mass killings and forced displacements of civilian populations; strongly condemns the engagement of authoritarian powers in proxy wars and stresses that political solutions are a prerequisite for sustainable peace; expresses deep concerns at heightened international political tensions , and in certain regions of the world , at the increased activity of non-state armed groups and terrorist organisations and the development of communal violence;


### 11. is seriously concerned at the persistence of the scourge of wars and military conflicts which give way to grave violations of international humanitarian law and human rights , in particular mass killings and forced displacements of civilian populations; strongly condemns the engagement of authoritarian powers in proxy wars and stresses that political solutions are a prerequisite for sustainable peace; expresses deep concerns at heightened international political tensions , and in certain regions of the world , at the increased activity of non-state armed groups and terrorist organisations and the development of communal violence; ### 11. is seriously concerned at the persistence of the scourge of wars and military conflicts which give way to grave violations of international humanitarian law and human rights , in particular mass killings and forced displacements of civilian populations; strongly condemns the engagement of totalitarian , dictatorial or authoritarian powers in proxy wars and stresses that political solutions are a prerequisite for sustainable peace; expresses deep concerns at heightened international political tensions , and in certain regions of the world , at the increased activity of non-state armed groups and terrorist organisations , mostly jihadist groups , and the development of communal violence;


### 12. deplores the fact that while the un marked its seventy-fifth anniversary in 2020 , a number of governments inspired by inward-looking attitudes have taken action to counter international cooperation efforts in favour of peace , conflict resolution and the protection of human rights based on the purposes and principles of the undhr , international law , the un charter and the helsinki final act; criticises the lack of joint international leadership from democratic countries to respond consistently to serious violations of international human rights law and to join forces to advance human rights , democracy and worldwide rules-based systems; ### 12. deplores the fact that while the un marked its seventy-fifth anniversary in 2020 , a number of governments have taken action to counter international cooperation efforts in favour of peace , conflict resolution and the protection of human rights based on the purposes and principles of the undhr , international law , the un charter and the helsinki final act; criticises the lack of joint international leadership from democratic countries to respond consistently to serious violations of international human rights law and to join forces to advance human rights , democracy and sustain the rules-based international systems;


### 13. deplores the plight of migrants and refugees around the world , particularly displaced women , children and persons with disabilities , who are among of the most vulnerable; notes that the number of international migrants in 2019 is estimated to be almost 272 million3 , which equates to 3.5 % of the global population , and that large-scale displacement and migration events occurred over the last two years; denounces political measures eroding the human rights of migrants and refugees and putting at risk their safety; points in this regard to the negative tendency towards the harassment and the criminalisation of the work of those who stand in defence of the human rights of migrants and refugees and provide them with assistance; ### 13. deplores the plight of migrants and refugees around the world , particularly displaced women , children , persons with disabilities , and persecuted religious minorities who are among of the most vulnerable; notes that the number of international migrants in 2019 is estimated to be almost 272 million3 , which equates to 3.5 % of the global population , and that large-scale displacement and migration events occurred over the last two years; denounces political measures eroding the human rights of migrants and refugees and putting at risk their safety;


### 13. deplores the plight of migrants and refugees around the world , particularly displaced women , children and persons with disabilities , who are among of the most vulnerable; notes that the number of international migrants in 2019 is estimated to be almost 272 million3 , which equates to 3.5 % of the global population , and that large-scale displacement and migration events occurred over the last two years; denounces political measures eroding the human rights of migrants and refugees and putting at risk their safety; points in this regard to the negative tendency towards the harassment and the criminalisation of the work of those who stand in defence of the human rights of migrants and refugees and provide them with assistance; ### 13. deplores the plight of migrants and refugees around the world , particularly displaced women , children , ethnic , religious and belief minorities and persons with disabilities , who are among of the most vulnerable; notes that the number of international migrants in 2019 is estimated to be almost 272 million3 , which equates to 3.5 % of the global population , and that large-scale displacement and migration events occurred over the last two years; denounces political measures eroding the human rights of migrants and refugees and putting at risk their safety; points in this regard to the negative tendency towards the harassment and the criminalisation of the work of those who stand in defence of the human rights of migrants and refugees and provide them with assistance;


### 13. deplores the plight of migrants and refugees around the world , particularly displaced women , children and persons with disabilities , who are among of the most vulnerable; notes that the number of international migrants in 2019 is estimated to be almost 272 million3 , which equates to 3 ,5 % of the global population , and that large-scale displacement and migration events occurred over the last two years; denounces political measures eroding the human rights of migrants and refugees and putting at risk their safety; points in this regard to the negative tendency towards the harassment and the criminalisation of the work of those who stand in defence of the human rights of migrants and refugees and provide them with assistance; ### 13. deplores the plight of migrants and refugees around the world , particularly displaced women , children and persons with disabilities , who are among of the most vulnerable; notes that the number of international migrants in 2019 is estimated to be almost 272 million3 , which equates to 3 ,5 % of the global population , regrets the increase in the number of asylum seekers in 2019 seeking international protection in the member states of the eu-27 4 a , as a consequence of repressive practices and human rights abuses on the part of dictatorships which are holding political power illegally in their home countries; and that large-scale displacement and migration events occurred over the last two years; denounces political measures eroding the human rights of migrants and refugees and putting at risk their safety; points in this regard to the negative tendency towards the harassment and the criminalisation of the work of those who stand in defence of the human rights of migrants and refugees and provide them with assistance;


### 13. deplores the plight of migrants and refugees around the world , particularly displaced women , children and persons with disabilities , who are among of the most vulnerable; notes that the number of international migrants in 2019 is estimated to be almost 272 million3 , which equates to 3 ,5 % of the global population , and that large-scale displacement and migration events occurred over the last two years; denounces political measures eroding the human rights of migrants and refugees and putting at risk their safety; points in this regard to the negative tendency towards the harassment and the criminalisation of the work of those who stand in defence of the human rights of migrants and refugees and provide them with assistance; ### 13. deplores the plight of migrants and refugees around the world , particularly displaced women , children and persons with disabilities , who are among of the most vulnerable; notes that the number of international migrants in 2019 is estimated to be almost 272 million3 , which equates to 3 ,5 % of the global population , over 20 million of whom were refugees 3 a and that large-scale displacement and migration events occurred over the last two years; denounces political measures eroding the human rights of migrants and refugees and putting at risk their safety; points in this regard to the negative tendency towards the harassment and the criminalisation of the work of those who stand in defence of the human rights of migrants and refugees and provide them with assistance;


### 14. welcomes the fact that efforts to advance the rights of women and girls have gained further prominence worldwide; stresses , however , the persistence of widespread gender-specific violence and discrimination in every region of the world , which often arises from cultural habits or long-established discriminatory legal systems; highlights , furthermore , the use of sexual violence targeting women because of their opinions , faith , philosophical orientation or their activism in defence of human rights; condemns authoritarian regimes that are opposing or fanning a negative backlash against women’s demands for equal rights; underlines the prominent role that women play through their activism in political and social movements and deplores the heavy toll they have paid by being victims of violence caused by brutal repression; ### 14. welcomes the fact that efforts to advance the rights of women and girls have gained further prominence worldwide; recalls that the istanbul convention , as the first universally binding treaty combating violence against women and girls and domestic violence , sets the benchmark for international standards that need to be further ratified and implemented; reiterates that eu’s accession to the istanbul convention has been recognised as a key priority of the eu gender equality strategy 2020-2025; stresses , however , the persistence of widespread gender-specific violence and discrimination in every region of the world , which often arises from cultural habits or long-established discriminatory legal systems , as well as from propaganda and disinformation actions that undermine women’s rights; highlights , furthermore , the use of sexual violence targeting women because of their opinions , faith , philosophical orientation or their activism in defence of human rights; condemns authoritarian regimes that are opposing or fanning a negative backlash against women’s demands for equal rights; underlines the prominent role that women play through their activism in political and social movements and deplores the heavy toll they have paid by being victims of violence caused by brutal repression;


### 14. welcomes the fact that efforts to advance the rights of women and girls have gained further prominence worldwide; stresses , however , the persistence of widespread gender-specific violence and discrimination in every region of the world , which often arises from cultural habits or long-established discriminatory legal systems; highlights , furthermore , the use of sexual violence targeting women because of their opinions , faith , philosophical orientation or their activism in defence of human rights; condemns authoritarian regimes that are opposing or fanning a negative backlash against women’s demands for equal rights; underlines the prominent role that women play through their activism in political and social movements and deplores the heavy toll they have paid by being victims of violence caused by brutal repression; ### 14. welcomes the fact that efforts to advance the rights of women and girls have gained further prominence worldwide; stresses , however , the persistence of widespread gender-specific violence and discrimination in every region of the world , which often arises from cultural habits or long-established discriminatory legal systems; highlights , furthermore , the use of sexual violence targeting women because of their opinions , religion , philosophical orientation or their activism in defence of human rights; condemns authoritarian regimes that are opposing or fanning a negative backlash against women’s demands for equal rights; underlines the prominent role that women play through their activism in political and social movements and deplores the heavy toll they have paid by being victims of violence caused by brutal repression; highlights the need to protect mothers in vulnerable situation , in particular single mothers and those who have a large family , to avoid poverty and social exclusion; points out the need to create a social and economic environment and conditions that allows mothers to continue their professional development;


### 14. welcomes the fact that efforts to advance the rights of women and girls have gained further prominence worldwide; stresses , however , the persistence of widespread gender-specific violence and discrimination in every region of the world , which often arises from cultural habits or long-established discriminatory legal systems; highlights , furthermore , the use of sexual violence targeting women because of their opinions , faith , philosophical orientation or their activism in defence of human rights; condemns authoritarian regimes that are opposing or fanning a negative backlash against women’s demands for equal rights; underlines the prominent role that women play through their activism in political and social movements and deplores the heavy toll they have paid by being victims of violence caused by brutal repression; ### 14. welcomes the fact that efforts to advance the rights of women and girls have gained further prominence worldwide; stresses , however , the persistence of widespread gender-specific violence and discrimination in every region of the world , which often arises from cultural habits or long-established discriminatory legal systems; highlights , furthermore , the use of sexual violence targeting women because of their opinions , faith , philosophical orientation , sexual orientation or their activism in defence of human rights; recalls that violence against lesbian and bisexual women in the form of “corrective rape” remains a systemic problem in some countries owing to social stigma and discriminatory legal systems; condemns authoritarian regimes that are opposing or fanning a negative backlash against women’s demands for equal rights; underlines the prominent role that women play through their activism in political and social movements and deplores the heavy toll they have paid by being victims of violence caused by brutal repression;


### 14. welcomes the fact that efforts to advance the rights of women and girls have gained further prominence worldwide; stresses , however , the persistence of widespread gender-specific violence and discrimination in every region of the world , which often arises from cultural habits or long-established discriminatory legal systems; highlights , furthermore , the use of sexual violence targeting women because of their opinions , faith , philosophical orientation or their activism in defence of human rights; condemns authoritarian regimes that are opposing or fanning a negative backlash against women’s demands for equal rights; underlines the prominent role that women play through their activism in political and social movements and deplores the heavy toll they have paid by being victims of violence caused by brutal repression; ### 14. welcomes the fact that efforts to advance the rights of women and girls have gained further prominence worldwide; stresses , however , the persistence of widespread gender-specific violence and discrimination in every region of the world , which often arises from cultural habits or long-established discriminatory legal systems; denounces the exploitation of women through the practice of surrogacy , human trafficking and the use of sexual violence targeting women because of their opinions , faith , philosophical orientation or their activism in defence of human rights; condemns authoritarian regimes that are opposing or fanning a negative backlash against women’s demands for equal rights; underlines the prominent role that women play through their activism in political and social movements and deplores the heavy toll they have paid by being victims of violence caused by brutal repression;


### 14. welcomes the fact that efforts to advance the rights of women and girls have gained further prominence worldwide; stresses , however , the persistence of widespread gender-specific violence and discrimination in every region of the world , which often arises from cultural habits or long-established discriminatory legal systems; highlights , furthermore , the use of sexual violence targeting women because of their opinions , faith , philosophical orientation or their activism in defence of human rights; condemns authoritarian regimes that are opposing or fanning a negative backlash against women’s demands for equal rights; underlines the prominent role that women play through their activism in political and social movements and deplores the heavy toll they have paid by being victims of violence caused by brutal repression; ### 14. welcomes the fact that efforts to advance the rights of women and girls have gained further prominence worldwide; stresses , however , the persistence of widespread gender-specific violence and discrimination in every region of the world , which often arises from cultural habits or long-established discriminatory legal systems; underlines that women and girls from ethnic , religious and belief minorities are doubly vulnerable to gender-specific violence and discrimination; highlights , furthermore , the use of sexual violence targeting women because of their opinions , faith , philosophical orientation or their activism in defence of human rights; condemns authoritarian regimes that are opposing or fanning a negative backlash against women’s demands for equal rights; underlines the prominent role that women play through their activism in political and social movements and deplores the heavy toll they have paid by being victims of violence caused by brutal repression;


### 14. welcomes the fact that efforts to advance the rights of women and girls have gained further prominence worldwide; stresses , however , the persistence of widespread gender-specific violence and discrimination in every region of the world , which often arises from cultural habits or long-established discriminatory legal systems; highlights , furthermore , the use of sexual violence targeting women because of their opinions , faith , philosophical orientation or their activism in defence of human rights; condemns authoritarian regimes that are opposing or fanning a negative backlash against women’s demands for equal rights; underlines the prominent role that women play through their activism in political and social movements and deplores the heavy toll they have paid by being victims of violence caused by brutal repression; ### 14. welcomes the fact that efforts to advance the rights of women and girls have gained further prominence worldwide; stresses , however , the persistence of widespread gender-specific violence and discrimination in every region of the world , which often arises from cultural habits or long-established discriminatory legal systems; underlines that females from ethnic , religious and belief minorities are doubly vulnerable to gender-specific violence and discrimination; highlights , furthermore , the use of sexual violence targeting women because of their opinions , faith , philosophical orientation or their activism in defence of human rights; condemns authoritarian regimes that are opposing or fanning a negative backlash against women’s demands for equal rights; underlines the prominent role that women play through their activism in political and social movements and deplores the heavy toll they have paid by being victims of violence caused by brutal repression;


### 14. welcomes the fact that efforts to advance the rights of women and girls have gained further prominence worldwide; stresses , however , the persistence of widespread gender-specific violence and discrimination in every region of the world , which often arises from cultural habits or long-established discriminatory legal systems; highlights , furthermore , the use of sexual violence targeting women because of their opinions , faith , philosophical orientation or their activism in defence of human rights; condemns authoritarian regimes that are opposing or fanning a negative backlash against women’s demands for equal rights; underlines the prominent role that women play through their activism in political and social movements and deplores the heavy toll they have paid by being victims of violence caused by brutal repression; ### 14. welcomes the fact that efforts to advance the rights of women and girls have gained further prominence worldwide; stresses , however , the persistence of widespread gender-specific violence and discrimination in every region of the world , which often arises from cultural habits or long-established discriminatory legal systems; highlights , furthermore , the use of sexual violence targeting women because of their opinions , faith , philosophical orientation or their activism in defence of human rights; condemns authoritarian regimes that are opposing or fanning a negative backlash against women’s demands for equal rights; underlines the prominent role that women play through their activism in political and social movements and deplores the heavy toll they have paid by being victims of violence caused by brutal repression as well as sexual exploitation during armed conflicts;


### 14. welcomes the fact that efforts to advance the rights of women and girls have gained further prominence worldwide; stresses , however , the persistence of widespread gender-specific violence and discrimination in every region of the world , which often arises from cultural habits or long-established discriminatory legal systems; highlights , furthermore , the use of sexual violence targeting women because of their opinions , faith , philosophical orientation or their activism in defence of human rights; condemns authoritarian regimes that are opposing or fanning a negative backlash against women’s demands for equal rights; underlines the prominent role that women play through their activism in political and social movements and deplores the heavy toll they have paid by being victims of violence caused by brutal repression; ### 14. welcomes the fact that efforts to advance the rights of women and girls have gained further prominence worldwide; stresses , however , the persistence of widespread gender-specific violence and discrimination in every region of the world , which often arises from cultural habits or long-established discriminatory legal systems; highlights , furthermore , the use of sexual violence targeting women because of their opinions , faith , philosophical orientation or their activism in defence of human rights; condemns authoritarian regimes that are opposing or fanning a negative backlash against women’s demands for equal rights; underlines the prominent role that women play through their activism in political and social movements and deplores the heavy toll they have paid by being victims of violence caused by brutal repression; encourages to go beyond just tackling the root causes of structural gender inequalities by guaranteeing equal opportunities and strengthening women’s participation;


### 14. welcomes the fact that efforts to advance the rights of women and girls have gained further prominence worldwide; stresses , however , the persistence of widespread gender-specific violence and discrimination in every region of the world , which often arises from cultural habits or long-established discriminatory legal systems; highlights , furthermore , the use of sexual violence targeting women because of their opinions , faith , philosophical orientation or their activism in defence of human rights; condemns authoritarian regimes that are opposing or fanning a negative backlash against women’s demands for equal rights; underlines the prominent role that women play through their activism in political and social movements and deplores the heavy toll they have paid by being victims of violence caused by brutal repression; ### 14. welcomes the fact that efforts to advance the rights of women and girls have gained further prominence worldwide; stresses , however , the persistence of widespread gender-specific violence and discrimination in every region of the world , which often arises from cultural habits or long-established discriminatory legal systems; highlights , furthermore , the use of sexual violence targeting women because of their opinions , faith , philosophical orientation or their activism in defence of human rights; condemns authoritarian regimes that are opposing or fanning a negative backlash against women’s demands for equal rights; underlines the prominent role that women play through their activism in political and social movements and deplores the heavy toll they have paid by being victims of violence caused by brutal repression; condemns in these matters the human trafficking to oppress women and young girls;


### 15. expresses deep concern at the continuation of serious human rights abuses against children around the world in 2019 , the year of the 30th anniversary of the convention of the rights of the child , namely trafficking and exploitation of children , use of child soldiers in armed conflicts and family separation and detention of children for immigration-related reasons; ### 15. expresses deep concern at the continuation of serious human rights abuses against children around the world in 2019 , the year of the 30th anniversary of the convention of the rights of the child , namely trafficking and exploitation of children , use of child soldiers in armed conflicts and family separation and detention of children for displacement-related reasons , child pornography and paedophilia;


### 15. expresses deep concern at the continuation of serious human rights abuses against children around the world in 2019 , the year of the 30th anniversary of the convention of the rights of the child , namely trafficking and exploitation of children , use of child soldiers in armed conflicts and family separation and detention of children for immigration-related reasons; ### 15. expresses deep concern at the continuation of serious human rights abuses against children around the world in 2019 , the year of the 30th anniversary of the convention of the rights of the child , namely trafficking and exploitation of children through child prostitution , child pornography and the practice of surrogacy , use of child soldiers in armed conflicts and family separation and detention of children for immigration-related reasons;


### 15. expresses deep concern at the continuation of serious human rights abuses against children around the world in 2019 , the year of the 30th anniversary of the convention of the rights of the child , namely trafficking and exploitation of children , use of child soldiers in armed conflicts and family separation and detention of children for immigration-related reasons; ### 15. expresses deep concern at the continuation of serious human rights abuses against children around the world in 2019 , the year of the 30th anniversary of the convention of the rights of the child , namely trafficking and exploitation of children , forced child labour , use of child soldiers in armed conflicts and family separation and detention of children for immigration-related reasons;


### 16. express its deep sorrow at and condemnation of the terrorist attacks and bombings perpetrated in the first half of 2019 that targeted believers in particular in places of worship; is alarmed that these horrific acts coincided with hate campaigns ramped up by some political leaders and terror groups that aim to deny the right to freedom of thought , conscience , religion or belief; ### 16. express its deep sorrow at and condemnation of the terrorist attacks and bombings perpetrated in the first half of 2019 that targeted believers and their places of worship; is alarmed that these horrific acts coincided with hate campaigns ramped up by some political leaders and terror groups that aim to deny and limit the right to freedom of thought , conscience , religion or belief;


### 16. express its deep sorrow at and condemnation of the terrorist attacks and bombings perpetrated in the first half of 2019 that targeted believers in particular in places of worship; is alarmed that these horrific acts coincided with hate campaigns ramped up by some political leaders and terror groups that aim to deny the right to freedom of thought , conscience , religion or belief; ### 16. express its deep sorrow at and condemnation of the terrorist attacks and bombings perpetrated in the first half of 2019 that targeted believers in particular in places of worship; is alarmed that these horrific acts coincided with hate campaigns ramped up by some political leaders and terror groups that aim to deny the right to freedom of thought , conscience , religion or belief; urges states to promote the freedom to religion or belief and protect vulnerable religion and belief minorities , taking swift action against perpetrators of violence or incitement to hatred;


### 16. express its deep sorrow at and condemnation of the terrorist attacks and bombings perpetrated in the first half of 2019 that targeted believers in particular in places of worship; is alarmed that these horrific acts coincided with hate campaigns ramped up by some political leaders and terror groups that aim to deny the right to freedom of thought , conscience , religion or belief; ### 16. express its deep sorrow at and condemnation of the terrorist attacks and bombings perpetrated in the first half of 2019 that targeted believers in particular in places of worship; is alarmed that these horrific acts coincided with hate campaigns ramped up by some political leaders and terror groups that aim to deny the right to freedom of thought , conscience , religion or belief; urges states to promote the freedom to religion and belief and protect vulnerable religion and belief minorities , taking action against perpetrators of violence or incitement to hatred;


### 16. express its deep sorrow at and condemnation of the terrorist attacks and bombings perpetrated in the first half of 2019 that targeted believers in particular in places of worship; is alarmed that these horrific acts coincided with hate campaigns ramped up by some political leaders and terror groups that aim to deny the right to freedom of thought , conscience , religion or belief; ### 16. express its deep sorrow at and condemnation of the terrorist attacks and bombings perpetrated in the first half of 2019 that targeted believers in particular in places of worship; is alarmed that these horrific acts coincided with hate campaigns ramped up by some political leaders and terror groups that aim to deny the right to freedom of thought , conscience , religion or belief; highlights the need to preserve and protect religious and cultural sites and in case of destruction , the importance of support to rebuild them for the well-being of the community attacked;


### 18. stresses the importance of the efforts of the european external action service (eeas) and the commission to continuously strengthen the awareness and knowledge of officials of the eu and its member states with regard to human rights; calls on all eu delegations and their respective focal points on human rights to consistently abide by their obligation to meet with hrds , visit detained activists , monitor their trials and advocate for their protection on the ground; ### 18. stresses the importance of the efforts of the european external action service (eeas) and the commission to continuously strengthen the awareness and knowledge of officials of the eu and its member states with regard to human rights; calls on all eu delegations and their respective focal points on human rights to consistently abide by their obligation to meet with hrds and members of civil society , visit detained activists , pro-democracy dissidents and hrds , monitor their trials and advocate for their protection on the ground;


### 19. welcomes the commitment by the council to promote responses to the effects of the coivd-19 pandemic by developing a global system of cooperation and dialogue and advancing rules- and rights-based multilateralism; stresses its view that international human rights law and the promise of achieving the sustainable development goals by 2030 should remain the cornerstones of all responses to the pandemic; recommends that the eu continue its efforts by engaging with countries and stakeholders which may or may not share the same values as the eu , in order to preserve or develop international standards in the field of human rights; ### 19. welcomes the global response to the covid-19 pandemic of the european union based on the team europe approach , which focuses on expressing solidarity and offering tangible assistance to partners , in particular the most vulnerable and affected countries; urges the eu and member states to develop an explicit strategy to counter increasing state withdrawal and pushback against the international human rights framework , in line with stated commitments to multilateralism in the action plan on human rights and democracy , as well as attempts on the international level to undermine the concept of human rights as established in the un universal declaration of human rights; stresses its view that international human rights law and the promise of achieving the sustainable development goals by 2030 should remain the cornerstones of all responses to the pandemic; recommends that the eu continue its efforts by engaging with countries and stakeholders which may or may not share the same values as the eu , in order to preserve or develop international standards in the field of human rights; welcomes the statement of the commission that the vaccine - against covid-19 - should be made globally available and that the eu will make every effort to this end;


### 19. welcomes the commitment by the council to promote responses to the effects of the coivd-19 pandemic by developing a global system of cooperation and dialogue and advancing rules- and rights-based multilateralism; stresses its view that international human rights law and the promise of achieving the sustainable development goals by 2030 should remain the cornerstones of all responses to the pandemic; recommends that the eu continue its efforts by engaging with countries and stakeholders which may or may not share the same values as the eu , in order to preserve or develop international standards in the field of human rights; ### 19. welcomes the commitment by the council to promote responses to the effects of the coivd-19 pandemic by developing a global system of cooperation and dialogue and advancing rules- and rights-based multilateralism; stresses its view that international human rights law and the promise of achieving the sustainable development goals by 2030 should remain the cornerstones of all responses to the pandemic; recommends that the eu continue its efforts by engaging with countries and stakeholders which may or may not share the same values as the eu , in order to preserve or develop international standards in the field of human rights , but in line with the union's values as defined in article 21 of the treaties (teu);


### 20. asks the member states to make the eu’s foreign and security policy more effective by using the rule of qualified majority voting in the council; calls on the member states to speak with a single , strong eu voice in multilateral forums , as this is the only way that the union can play a leading role on the international scene and use its influence to bring about positive changes and better responses to global challenges including the promotion and protection of human rights and environment and climate related challenges; ### 20. calls on the member states to speak with a single , strong eu voice in multilateral forums , as this is the only way that the union can play a leading role on the international scene and use its influence to bring about positive changes and better responses to global challenges , primarily , the promotion and protection of democracy and human rights , as well as environmental and climate related challenges;


### 20. asks the member states to make the eu’s foreign and security policy more effective by using the rule of qualified majority voting in the council; calls on the member states to speak with a single , strong eu voice in multilateral forums , as this is the only way that the union can play a leading role on the international scene and use its influence to bring about positive changes and better responses to global challenges including the promotion and protection of human rights and environment and climate related challenges; ### 20. calls on the member states to speak with a single , strong eu voice in multilateral forums , as this is the only way that the union can play a leading role on the international scene and use its influence to bring about positive changes and better responses to global challenges including the promotion and protection of human rights and environment and climate related challenges;


### 20. asks the member states to make the eu’s foreign and security policy more effective by using the rule of qualified majority voting in the council; calls on the member states to speak with a single , strong eu voice in multilateral forums , as this is the only way that the union can play a leading role on the international scene and use its influence to bring about positive changes and better responses to global challenges including the promotion and protection of human rights and environment and climate related challenges; ### 20. asks the member states to render the eu’s foreign policy pertaining to human rights issues more effective by using the rule of qualified majority voting in this field in the council; calls on the member states to speak with a single , strong eu voice in multilateral forums , as this is the only way that the union can play a leading role on the international scene and use its influence to bring about positive changes and better responses to global challenges including the promotion and protection of human rights and environment and climate related challenges;


### 20. asks the member states to make the eu’s foreign and security policy more effective by using the rule of qualified majority voting in the council; calls on the member states to speak with a single , strong eu voice in multilateral forums , as this is the only way that the union can play a leading role on the international scene and use its influence to bring about positive changes and better responses to global challenges including the promotion and protection of human rights and environment and climate related challenges; ### 20. calls on the member states to make the eu’s foreign and security policy more effective by utilising the principle of qualified majority voting in the council in selected areas of cfsp; calls on the member states to speak with a single voice in multilateral forums , as this is the only way that the union can play a leading role on the international scene and use its influence to bring about positive changes and more coordinated responses to global challenges , such as promotion and protection of human rights , environment and climate change;


### 21. reiterates that the eu will only be recognised on the global scene if its core values , in particular those of respect for democracy , human rights and the rule of law are credible externally , and this will only be possible if the eu ensures the internal and external coherence of its policies on these matters; ### 21. reiterates that the eu will only be credible and effective on the global scene if it stays true to its core values , that of freedom , democracy , human rights and the rule of law;


### 21. reiterates that the eu will only be recognised on the global scene if its core values , in particular those of respect for democracy , human rights and the rule of law are credible externally , and this will only be possible if the eu ensures the internal and external coherence of its policies on these matters; ### 21. reiterates that the eu will only be recognised on the global scene if its core values , in particular those of respect for democracy , human rights and the rule of law are credible externally , and this will only be possible if the eu ensures the internal and external coherence of its policies , and consistency in adhering to its values , on these matters;


### 21. reiterates that the eu will only be recognised on the global scene if its core values , in particular those of respect for democracy , human rights and the rule of law are credible externally , and this will only be possible if the eu ensures the internal and external coherence of its policies on these matters; ### 21. reiterates that the eu will only be recognised on the global scene if its core values , in particular those of respect for democracy , human rights and the rule of law are credible externally , and this will only be possible if the eu ensures the internal and external coherence of its policies on these matters and if the member states start to be guided by the common good , particularly when it comes to defending the rights and values that underpin the eu;


### 22. welcomes the appointment on 28 february 2019 of mr eamon gilmore as eu special representative for human rights (eusr); encourages the eusr to pursue diplomatic efforts to enhance the effectiveness of eu human rights policy , to consolidate international alliances for promoting the human rights agenda and to convince interlocutors across the world to adopt policies that conform to high standards of democracy , human rights , rule of law and good governance , and international law and norms , in particular international humanitarian law and international criminal justice; recommends , furthermore , that the eusr to redouble efforts to ensure the eu’s internal coherence in defining and implementing eu human rights foreign policy; calls on the eu to reinforce the visibility of the eusr , to make it a permanent position endowed with own-initiative powers , adequate resources and the ability to speak publicly in order to report on the achievements of visits to non-eu countries and communicate the eu’s positions on human rights-related topics; ### 22. welcomes the appointment on 28 february 2019 of mr eamon gilmore as eu special representative for human rights (eusr); encourages the eusr to pursue diplomatic efforts to enhance the effectiveness of eu human rights policy , to consolidate international alliances for promoting the human rights agenda and to convince interlocutors around the world to adopt policies that conform to the highest standards of democracy , human rights , rule of law and good governance , and international law and norms , in particular international humanitarian law and international criminal justice; recommends , furthermore , that the eusr to redouble efforts to ensure the eu’s internal coherence in defining and implementing eu human rights foreign policy; calls on the eu to reinforce the visibility of the eusr , to make it a permanent position , adequate resources and the ability to speak publicly in order to report on the achievements of visits to non-eu countries and communicate the eu’s positions on human rights-related topics , as part of an overall reform of the eusr’s position;


### 23. reiterates its call for human rights clauses to be systematically included in all international agreements between the eu and non-eu countries and for them to be duly enforced and monitored , including through measurable benchmarks , with the involvement of parliament and civil society; stresses that these clauses should provide for mechanisms to ensure their effective enforcement and for procedures setting out clear and credible consequences that follow from breaches of agreement , including suspension or , as a last resort , the withdrawal of the eu from the agreement; recommends that independent monitoring mechanisms on human rights be set up in relation to trade and foreign investment agreements , as well as an independent complaints mechanism , to provide affected citizens and local stakeholders with effective recourse to remedy; ### 23. reiterates its call on the commission for human rights clauses to be included in all trade and association agreements between the eu and non-eu countries and for them to be duly enforced and monitored , with the involvement of parliament and civil society; stresses that these clauses should provide for mechanisms to ensure their effective enforcement and for procedures setting out clear and credible consequences that follow from breaches of agreement , including suspension or , as a last resort , the withdrawal of the eu from the agreement; recommends that independent monitoring mechanisms on human rights be set up in relation to trade and foreign investment agreements , as well as an independent complaints mechanism , to provide affected citizens and local stakeholders with effective recourse to remedy;


### 24. calls for the implementation of and budget for activities and support to promote and protect democracy and human rights under the neighbourhood , development and international cooperation instrument (ndici) to match the level of the union’s commitment and ambition; ### 24. calls for the implementation of and budget for activities and support to promote and protect democracy and human rights , combat religious extremism , address poverty , unemployment , climate change and lack of security as root causes of migration , under the neighbourhood , development and international cooperation instrument (ndici) to match the level of the union’s commitment and ambition;


### 25. calls on the commission to monitor and include as part of its annual report on the achievement of the objectives of the ndici a chapter on respect for human rights and compliance with article 8 – general principles of the instrument by the partner countries that benefit from its funding; calls on the commission to propose appropriate measures , including the suspension of eu funding , in the event of a violation of human rights or of the principles of the ndici by its beneficiaries; ### 25. calls on the commission to monitor and include as part of its annual report on the achievement of the objectives of the ndici a chapter on respect for human rights and compliance with article 8 – general principles of the instrument by the partner countries that benefit from its funding; calls on the commission to propose appropriate measures , including the suspension of eu budget aid , in the event of a serious violation of human rights or of the principles of the ndici by its beneficiaries;


### 25. calls on the commission to monitor and include as part of its annual report on the achievement of the objectives of the ndici a chapter on respect for human rights and compliance with article 8 – general principles of the instrument by the partner countries that benefit from its funding; calls on the commission to propose appropriate measures , including the suspension of eu funding , in the event of a violation of human rights or of the principles of the ndici by its beneficiaries; ### 25. calls on the commission to monitor and include as part of its annual report on the achievement of the objectives of the ndici a chapter on respect for human rights and compliance with article 8 – general principles of the instrument by the partner countries that benefit from its funding; calls on the commission to propose appropriate measures , including the suspension of eu funding , in the event of a grave violation of human rights or of the principles of the ndici by its beneficiaries;


### 26. welcomes the adoption of the eu action plan on human rights and democracy 2020-2024; considers it regrettable that the eeas had not given due attention to the offer of parliament and its subcommittee on human rights to actively contribute to its preparation , in a spirit of good inter-institutional cooperation; calls on the eeas and the commission to engage in a structured and regular dialogue with parliament’s competent bodies on the implementation of the new action plan in order to allow parliament to play its part in the action plan’s activities , in particular through parliamentary diplomacy , and to effectively fulfil its scrutiny role; recommends that a set of benchmarks and progress indicators be established in order to effectively monitor the implementation of the action plan; calls on the eeas to report on the progress made in achieving the objectives of the action plan against these benchmarks; requests that the eeas follow up regularly on parliament’s resolutions and debates which are relevant for the implementation of the action plan; ### 26. welcomes the adoption of the eu action plan on human rights and democracy 2020-2024; reiterates its demand that the eeas gives due attention to the offer of parliament and its subcommittee on human rights to actively contribute to its preparation , in a spirit of good inter-institutional cooperation; calls on the eeas and the commission to engage in a structured and regular dialogue with parliament’s competent bodies on the implementation of the new action plan in order to allow parliament to play its part in the action plan’s activities , in particular through parliamentary diplomacy , and to effectively fulfil its scrutiny role; recommends that a set of benchmarks and progress indicators be established in order to effectively monitor the implementation of the action plan; calls on the eeas to report on the progress made in achieving the objectives of the action plan against these benchmarks; requests that the eeas follow up regularly on parliament’s resolutions and debates which are relevant for the implementation of the action plan;


### 27. takes the view that democratic governance and the rule of law are globally under attack due to a combination of factors including the rise of authoritarianism , increased inequalities and poverty , the shrinking of space for civil society , loss of credibility of public power and the weakening of collective organisations defending public interest; calls for the eu and its member states to continue supporting the building up of democratic institutions and transparent and credible electoral processes , while going beyond this by providing further support to actions that encourage and unleash democratic debate , combat inequalities , empower civil society organisations , fight corruption and strengthen judiciaries; ### 27. takes the view that democratic governance and the rule of law are globally under attack due to a combination of factors including the rise of authoritarianism , proliferating of fake news and disinformation , increased inequalities and poverty , pressure on civil society , loss of credibility of public authorities and the ineffectiveness of collective international organisations; calls on the eu and its member states to continue supporting the strengthening of democratic institutions , transparent and credible electoral processes worldwide , encourage and unleash democratic debate , combat inequalities , empower civil society organisations , fight corruption and strengthen the independence of judiciaries;


### 27. takes the view that democratic governance and the rule of law are globally under attack due to a combination of factors including the rise of authoritarianism , increased inequalities and poverty , the shrinking of space for civil society , loss of credibility of public power and the weakening of collective organisations defending public interest; calls for the eu and its member states to continue supporting the building up of democratic institutions and transparent and credible electoral processes , while going beyond this by providing further support to actions that encourage and unleash democratic debate , combat inequalities , empower civil society organisations , fight corruption and strengthen judiciaries; ### 27. takes the view that democratic governance and the rule of law are globally under attack due to a combination of factors including the rise of authoritarianism and populism , increased inequalities and poverty , the shrinking of space for civil society , loss of credibility of public power and the weakening of collective organisations defending public interest; calls for the eu and its member states to continue supporting the building up of democratic institutions and transparent and credible electoral processes throughout the world , while going beyond this by providing further support to actions that encourage and unleash democratic debate , combat inequalities , ensure the work of civil society organisations , fight corruption and strengthen judiciaries;


### 27. takes the view that democratic governance and the rule of law are globally under attack due to a combination of factors including the rise of authoritarianism , increased inequalities and poverty , the shrinking of space for civil society , loss of credibility of public power and the weakening of collective organisations defending public interest; calls for the eu and its member states to continue supporting the building up of democratic institutions and transparent and credible electoral processes , while going beyond this by providing further support to actions that encourage and unleash democratic debate , combat inequalities , empower civil society organisations , fight corruption and strengthen judiciaries; ### 27. takes the view that democratic governance and the rule of law are globally under attack due to a combination of factors including the rise of authoritarianism , increased inequalities and poverty , the shrinking of space for civil society and faith based organizations , loss of credibility of states , polarization in societies and the weakening of collective organisations defending public interest; calls for the eu and its member states to continue supporting the building up of democratic institutions and transparent and credible electoral processes , while going beyond this by providing further support to actions that encourage and unleash democratic debate , combat unjust inequalities , empower civil society organisations working for common good , fight corruption and strengthen independent and impartial judiciaries;


### 27. takes the view that democratic governance and the rule of law are globally under attack due to a combination of factors including the rise of authoritarianism , increased inequalities and poverty , the shrinking of space for civil society , loss of credibility of public power and the weakening of collective organisations defending public interest; calls for the eu and its member states to continue supporting the building up of democratic institutions and transparent and credible electoral processes , while going beyond this by providing further support to actions that encourage and unleash democratic debate , combat inequalities , empower civil society organisations , fight corruption and strengthen judiciaries; ### 27. takes the view that democratic governance and the rule of law are globally under attack due to a combination of factors including the rise of authoritarianism , increased inequalities and poverty , polarisation , the shrinking of space for civil society , disinformation campaigns and other hybrid threats conducted by internal and external actors , loss of credibility of public institutions and the weakening of collective organisations defending public interest; calls for the eu and its member states to continue supporting the building up of democratic institutions and transparent and credible electoral processes , while going beyond this by providing further support to actions that encourage and unleash democratic debate , combat inequalities , empower civil society organisations , support dialogue between different segments of society , fight corruption and strengthen judiciaries;


### — having regard to article 168 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union , ### — having regard to articles 5 , 6 & 168 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union ,


### b. whereas sexual and reproductive health and rights (srhr) are based on the rights of all individuals to have their bodily integrity and personal autonomy respected; define their sexual orientation and gender identity; decide whether , with whom and when to be sexually active; decide whether , when and who to marry and when , whether and by what means to have a child or children; have access to the information and support necessary to achieve all of the above9 ; ### b. whereas sexual and reproductive health and rights (srhr) are , according to the world health organisation (who) , an umbrella term for various issues affecting men , women , boys and girls alike , and representing four separate areas: sexual health , sexual rights , reproductive health and reproductive rights , based on the rights of all individuals to have their bodily integrity and personal autonomy respected; define their sexual orientation and gender identity; decide whether , with whom and when to be sexually active; decide whether , when and who to marry and when , whether and by what means to have a child or children; have access to the information and support necessary to achieve all of the above9 ;


### b. whereas sexual and reproductive health and rights (srhr) are based on the rights of all individuals to have their bodily integrity and personal autonomy respected; define their sexual orientation and gender identity; decide whether , with whom and when to be sexually active; decide whether , when and who to marry and when , whether and by what means to have a child or children; have access to the information and support necessary to achieve all of the above9 ; ### b. whereas sexual and reproductive health and rights (srhr) are based on the rights of all individuals to have their bodily integrity and personal autonomy respected; have their sexual orientation and gender identity fully respected; decide whether , with whom and when to be sexually active; decide whether , when and who to marry and when , whether and by what means to have a child or children; have access to the information and support necessary to achieve all of the above9 ;


### d. whereas violations of srhr constitute breaches of human rights , specifically the right to life , physical and mental integrity , equality , non-discrimination , health and education; whereas violations of women’s srhr are a form of violence against women and girls; ### d. whereas violations of srhr constitute breaches of human rights , specifically the right to life , physical and mental integrity , equality , non-discrimination , health and education; whereas violations of women’s srhr are a form of violence against women and girls1a;


### f. whereas srhr challenges and obstacles include: a lack of access , denial of medical care based on personal beliefs , gender-based violence , gynaecological and obstetric violence , a lack of comprehensive sexuality education , denial of access to information/education , a lack of available contraception methods , limited access to medically assisted reproduction treatments , forced sterilisation , high rates of stis and hiv , disparities in maternal mortality , high adolescent pregnancy rates , harmful gender stereotypes and practices such as female genital mutilation , early , forced and child marriages and honour killings; ### f. whereas srhr challenges and obstacles include: a lack of access , denial of medical care based on personal beliefs , gender-based violence , gynaecological and obstetric violence , a lack of comprehensive sexuality education , denial of access to information/education , a lack of available contraception methods , limited access to medically assisted reproduction treatments , forced sterilisation , including in the context of legal gender recognition , high rates of stis and hiv , disparities in maternal mortality , high adolescent pregnancy rates , harmful gender stereotypes and practices such as female and intersex genital mutilation , early , forced and child marriages , honour killings and so-called “conversion therapy” practices , which can take the form of sexual violence such as “corrective rape” on lesbian and bisexual women and girls , as well as transgender persons; whereas the enjoyment of srhr for lgbti persons may be severely hindered due to the omission in sexual education curricula of the diversity of sexual orientation , gender identity , expression and sex characteristics;


### f. whereas srhr challenges and obstacles include: a lack of access , denial of medical care based on personal beliefs , gender-based violence , gynaecological and obstetric violence , a lack of comprehensive sexuality education , denial of access to information/education , a lack of available contraception methods , limited access to medically assisted reproduction treatments , forced sterilisation , high rates of stis and hiv , disparities in maternal mortality , high adolescent pregnancy rates , harmful gender stereotypes and practices such as female genital mutilation , early , forced and child marriages and honour killings; ### f. whereas srhr challenges and obstacles can include , among others , obstacles of a legal , financial , cultural and information nature , such as: a lack of access , denial of medical care based on personal beliefs , gender-based violence , gynaecological and obstetric violence , a lack of comprehensive and age appropriate sexuality education , denial of access to information/education , a lack of available contraception methods , limited access to medically assisted reproduction treatments , difficulties accessing goods necessary for srhr , forced sterilisation , high rates of stis and hiv , disparities in maternal mortality , high adolescent pregnancy rates , harmful gender stereotypes and practices such as female genital mutilation , early , forced and child marriages and honour killings;


### g. whereas the unavailability of scientifically accurate information violates the rights of individuals to make informed choices about their own srhr; ### g. whereas the unavailability of scientifically accurate information violates the rights of individuals and is damaging in making informed choices about srhr;


### h. whereas the essential package of srh measures includes: comprehensive sexuality education; modern contraceptives; antenatal , childbirth and postnatal care; midwifery; obstetric and newborn care; safe and legal abortion services; the prevention and treatment of hiv and other stis; services aimed at detecting , preventing and treating sexual and gender-based violence; treatment for reproductive cancers; and fertility services; ### h. whereas the essential package of srh measures includes: access to information , healthcare services , and confidential and unbiased counselling; comprehensive and age appropriate sexuality education; modern contraceptives; antenatal , childbirth and postnatal care; midwifery; obstetric and newborn care; the prevention and treatment of hiv and other stis; services aimed at detecting , preventing and treating sexual and gender-based violence; treatment for reproductive cancers; and fertility and infertility services;


### i. whereas comprehensive sexuality education facilitates informed reproductive choices; ### i. whereas comprehensive and age appropriate sexuality education is a rights based and gender focused approach to sexuality education , including scientifically accurate information about human development , anatomy and reproductive health which facilitates informed reproductive choices and helps to combat gender-based violence;


### j. whereas some member states still have laws prohibiting abortion except in strictly defined circumstances , forcing women to seek clandestine abortions , to travel to other countries or to carry their pregnancy to term against their will , which is a violation of human rights and a form of gender-based violence; ### j. whereas some member states still have laws prohibiting abortion except in strictly defined circumstances , resulting in women having to seek clandestine abortions , to travel to other countries or to carry their pregnancy to term against their will , which is a violation of human rights and a form of gender-based violence 1a;


### k. whereas even when abortion is legally available , there are often barriers to accessing it; ### k. whereas abortion laws are based on national legislation; whereas even when abortion is legally available , there are often barriers to accessing it;


### l. whereas no woman should die in childbirth and evidence-based maternity care is a human right; ### l. whereas no woman should die in childbirth and evidence-based maternity , pregnancy and birth-related care is a human right;


### m. whereas srhr issues are often instrumentalised by opponents of reproductive rights who appeal to national interests in order to achieve demographic objectives , thus contributing to the erosion of democracy and personal freedoms; ### m. whereas srhr issues are often instrumentalised by opponents of reproductive rights in order to achieve demographic objectives , thus contributing to the erosion of democracy and personal freedoms;


### forging a consensus and addressing srhr challenges as eu challenges ### forging a consensus in addressing srhr


### 1. calls upon the eu , its bodies and agencies to support and promote access to srhr services and calls upon the member states to ensure access to a full range of srhr , and to remove all barriers impeding full access to srhr; ### 1. calls upon the eu , its bodies and agencies to support and promote access to srhr services within the exercise of its policies and competences and with due regard to subsidiarity , and calls upon the member states to ensure access to a full range of srhr , and to remove all barriers impeding full access to srhr;


### 1. reaffirms that sexual and reproductive health and rights (srhr) are grounded in human rights , are fundamental elements of human dignity , and remain crucial to achieving gender equality; ### 1. believes that sexual and reproductive health is grounded in human rights , is a fundamental elements of human dignity , and remain crucial to achieving gender equality , and remains committed to the promotion , protection and fulfilment of all human rights and to the full and effective implementation beijing platform for action and the programme of action of the icpd and the outcomes of their review conferences in the eu’s external action and development , as such and remains committed to sexual and reproductive health and rights (srhr) , in this context;


### 2. in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity and in line with national competences , calls upon the member states to safeguard the right of all persons to make their own informed choices with regard to srhr; ### 2. in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity and in line with national competences and national legislation in the field of health , calls upon the member states to safeguard the right of all persons to make their own informed choices with regard to srhr;


### 2. calls for the elimination of harmful practices such as female genital mutilation (fgm) and early and forced child marriage; is extremely concerned that more than 200 million girls and women worldwide have been forced to undergo fgm; calls for full access to physical and psychological care by interculturally sensitive and trained personnel; ### 2. calls for the immediate elimination of harmful practices such as female genital mutilation (fgm) and early and forced child marriage; is extremely concerned that more than 200 million girls and women worldwide have been forced to undergo fgm; and that due to the covid-19 pandemic the delay or interruption of community outreach programmes and education on harmful practices globally is estimated to lead 2 million more cases of fgm and 13 million more child marriages over the next decade compared to pre-pandemic estimates; calls for full access to physical and psychological care by interculturally sensitive and trained personnel;


### 3. condemns any violations of srhr , including failures to provide access to comprehensive sexuality education (cse) , family planning services and maternal healthcare; ### 3. condemns any violations of sexual and reproductive health and reproductive rights , including failures to provide access to comprehensive , age appropriate , evidence based sexuality education (cse) , family planning services and maternal healthcare;


### 4. insists that cse programmes are important as they provide age-appropriate information about puberty , the menstrual cycle , pregnancy and childbirth; recalls the role of non-governmental organisations as service providers and advocates for srhr; underlines that cse programmes help prevent early pregnancy and marriage , which lead to girls dropping out of school; ### 4. insists that cse programmes are important as they provide age-appropriate information about puberty , the menstrual cycle , pregnancy and childbirth; underlines that cse programmes help prevent early pregnancy and marriage , which lead to girls dropping out of school;


### 5. recalls that safe and legal abortion care is anchored in women’s health and rights; warns about the worrying backlash on women’s rights over their bodies in both developing countries and the eu; stresses the need for the full implementation of the maputo protocol , especially article 14; ### 5. recalls that safe and accessible sexual and reproductive health care is anchored in women’s health and rights; warns about the worrying backlash on women’s rights and calls to support women’s rights , through strengthening access to sexual and reproductive health care for women and girls , free from coercion , violence , discrimination and abuse in developing countries; stresses the need for the implementation of the maputo protocol , especially article 14 where appropriate;


### 6. calls upon the member states to establish effective strategies and monitoring programmes that guarantee access to a full range of srhr services; ### 6. calls upon the member states to establish effective strategies and monitoring programmes that guarantee access to a full range of srhr services in line with international health standards;


### 6. calls for the gender action plan iii to give more prominence to its srhr thematic policy area given the tremendous impact of the covid-19 pandemic on women and girls in developing countries; ### 6. calls for the gender action plan iii to give more prominence to its srhr thematic policy area given the tremendous impact of the covid-19 pandemic on women and girls in developing countries in line with the beijing platform for action and the programme of action of the icpd and the outcomes of their review conferences;


### 7. recalls that all medical interventions related to srhr must be undertaken with fully informed consent; ### 7. recalls that all medical interventions related to srhr must be undertaken with prior , personal and fully informed consent;


### 7. calls on the eu to secure adequate and well-targeted funding for srhr in its development cooperation policy; ### 7. calls on the eu to secure adequate and well-targeted funding for sexual and reproductive health care , in its development cooperation policy stresses the importance of a continuous structural dialogue with developing countries in order to achieve sustainable solutions in the protection and fulfilment of women rights;


### 8. emphasises that srhr services should be gender-responsive , rights-based , youth-friendly and available to all , regardless of age or marital status , including during conflicts and disasters; ### 8. emphasises that sexual and reproductive health care services should be gender-responsive , rights-based , youth-friendly and available to all , regardless of age or marital status , including during conflicts and disasters;


### 9. calls upon the member states to combat the spread of discriminatory and unsafe misinformation on srhr; ### 9. calls upon the member states and the media to combat the spread of discriminatory and unsafe misinformation on srhr;


### 9. reiterates its call on both parties of the new agreement between the eu and the organisation of african , caribbean and pacific states to commit to the promotion , protection and fulfilment of srhr free from discrimination , coercion and violence and to the full implementation of the international conference on population and development’s programme of action; ### 9. reiterates that both parties of the new agreement between the eu and the organisation of african , caribbean and pacific states shall commit to the full and effective implementation of the beijing platform for action and the programme of action of the international conference on population and development and the outcomes of their review conferences and shall commit to sexual and reproductive health and rights , in this context;