### the council conclusions on security and development emphasise that the nexus between development and security should inform eu strategies and policies in order to contribute to the coherence of eu external action . more specifically , the council concluded that future work on security and development should include the security and development implications of climate change , environmental and natural resource management issues and migration . ### the council conclusions on security and development emphasise that the nexus between development and security should inform eu strategies and policies in order to contribute to policy coherence for development as enshrined in article 208 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union and to the coherence of eu external action in general . more specifically , the council concluded that future work on security and development should include the security and development implications of climate change , environmental and natural resource management issues and migration .


### thematic strategy papers shall be approved and multiannual indicative programmes shall be adopted by the commission in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 15 of the common implementing regulation . this procedure shall also apply to substantial reviews which have the effect of modifying significantly the strategy or its programming . ### thematic strategy papers shall be approved and multiannual indicative programmes shall be adopted by the commission in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 15 of the common implementing regulation , and in consultation , where appropriate , with the partner country or regions concerned . this procedure shall also apply to substantial reviews which have the effect of modifying significantly the strategy or its programming .


### the commission should examine a citizens ' initiative and set out its conclusions and the actions it envisages to take in response to it , within a period of four months . ### the commission should examine a citizens ' initiative and respond to it in a clear , comprehensible and detailed manner and within a time frame corresponding to its handling of legislative initiatives of the european parliament under article 225 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union . thus , as a first step , the commission should after three months inform the organisers of a successful initiative of how it intends to act on the initiative . as a second step , citizens should have the assurance that a successful citizens ' initiative will be the subject of an official public hearing at european union level . the commission , as the addressee of an initiative , should ensure that such a hearing takes place and that it will be represented at an appropriate level . the european parliament , through its committee responsible , should always be invited to participate in the organising of such hearings . as a third step , the commission should come forward with its final response to the initiative after one year , either by proposing legislation accordingly or by explaining in a detailed manner its reasons for not acting on the initiative . the commission should also give a thorough explanation in the event that the legislative proposal diverges significantly from the citizens ' initiative .


### required information for registering a proposed citizens’ initiative the following information shall be provided in order to register a proposed citizens’ initiative on the commission ' s register : the title of proposed citizens ' initiative in no more than 100 characters ; 2 . the subject - matter , in no more than 200 characters ; 3 . the description of the objectives of the proposal on which the commission is invited to act , in no more than 500 characters ; 4 . the legal base of the treaties which would allow the commission to act ; 5 . the full name , postal address and e - mail address of the organiser or , in the case of a legal entity or organisation , its legal representative ; 7 . all sources of funding and support for the proposed initiative at the time of registration . organisers may provide more detailed information on the subject , objectives and background to the proposed citizens ' initiative in an annex . they may also , if they wish , submit a draft legislative text . ### required information for a proposed citizens’ initiative the following information shall be provided for the commission ' s register : the title of the proposed citizens ' initiative in no more than 100 characters ; 2 . the subject - matter , in no more than 200 characters ; 3 . the description of the objectives of the proposal on which the commission is invited to act , in no more than 500 characters ; 4 . the treaty provision considered relevant by the organisers for the proposed action ; 5 . the full name , postal address and e - mail address of the organisers and the contact persons ; 6 . all sources of support and funding for the proposed initiative at the time of registration organisers may provide more detailed information on the subject , objectives , and background to the proposed citizens ' initiative in an annex . they may also , if they wish , submit a draft legislative text .


### signatories shall be considered as coming from the member state which issued the identification document indicated in their statement of support . ### signatories shall be considered as coming from the member state where they have their permanent residence . a signatory who is not a national of the member state in which he or she permanently resides may choose to be considered as coming either from the member state in which he or she permanently resides or from the member state of which he or she is a national . a signatory permanently resident in a third country shall be considered as coming from the member state of which he or she is a national .


### after having obtained the certificates provided for in article 9 , and provided that all relevant procedures and conditions set out in this regulation have been complied with , the organiser may submit the citizens’ initiative to the commission . ### after having obtained the certificates provided for in article 9 , and provided that all relevant procedures and conditions set out in this regulation have been complied with , the organisers may submit the citizens’ initiative to the commission , accompanied by information regarding any support and funding received for the initiative . the amount of support and funding received from natural persons in excess of which information is to be provided shall be determined by the commission by means of delegated acts .


### prior to initiating the collection of statements of support from signatories for a proposed citizens ' initiative , the organiser shall be required to register it with the commission , providing the information set out in annex ii , in particular on the subject - matter and objectives as well as on the sources of funding and support for the proposed citizens ' initiative . this information shall be provided in one of the official languages of the union , in an online register made available for that purpose by the commission . ### prior to initiating the collection of statements of support from signatories for a proposed citizens ' initiative , the organisers shall be required to register it with the commission , providing the information set out in annex ii , in particular on the subject - matter and objectives of the proposed citizens ' initiative . the organisers shall provide , for the register defined in the third subparagraph and where appropriate on their website , regularly updated information on the sources of support and funding for the initiative . this information shall be provided in one or more official languages of the union , in an online register made available for that purpose by the commission . information in an official language other the language in which it was originally provided may be provided subsequently for entry in the register . the translation of the initiative into other official languages of the union shall be the responsibility of the organisers .


### where the commission receives a citizens ' initiative in accordance with article 10 it shall : publish the citizens ' initiative without delay on its website ; b . examine the citizens ' initiative and , within 4 months , set out in a communication its conclusions on the initiative , the action it intends to take , if any , and its reasons for doing so . ### where the commission receives a citizens ' initiative in accordance with article 10 it shall : publish the citizens ' initiative without delay on its website ; aa . receive the organisers at an appropriate level to allow them to explain in detail the matters raised by the initiative ; b . examine the citizens ' initiative and , within three months , set out in a communication its initial conclusions on the initiative ; ba . present a legislative proposal within one year or include the proposal in its next year ' s work programme . if the commission does not present such a proposal it shall give the organisers as well as the european parliament and the council detailed explanations of its reasons for not acting on the initiative .


### in order to ensure coherence and transparency in relation to proposed citizens ' initiatives , it should be mandatory to register such initiatives on a website made available by the commission prior to collecting the necessary statements of support from citizens ; proposals that are abusive or devoid of seriousness should not be registered and the commission should reject the registration of proposals which would be manifestly against the values of the union . the commission should deal with registration in accordance with the general principles of good administration . ### in order to ensure coherence and transparency in relation to proposed citizens ' initiatives and to avoid a situation in which signatures are collected for a proposal which does not fall within the scope of this regulation , it should be mandatory to register such initiatives on a website made available by the commission prior to collecting the necessary statements of support from citizens . proposals that are not citizens ' initiatives within the meaning of this regulation should not be registered . registration is an administrative procedure aimed at selecting those initiatives that fall within the scope of this regulation ; therefore any refusal of registration should be based only on legal grounds and not , on any account , on grounds of political expediency . the commission should deal with registration in accordance with the general principles of good administration , and should therefore be obliged to inform the organisers of an initiative of the reasons for any refusal to register that initiative and of all possible judicial and extrajudicial remedies available to them . it should also be made clear by the commission that registration and the collection of the required number of statements of support will not necessarily result in the commission adopting a proposal for a legal act and that the registration of an initiative does not constitute a formal decision on competence issues .


### the commission should examine a citizens ' initiative and set out its conclusions and the actions it envisages to take in response to it , within a period of four months . ### the commission should examine a citizens ' initiative and respond to it in a clear , comprehensible and detailed manner , addressing the legal and political aspects separately , and within a time frame corresponding to its handling of legislative initiatives of the european parliament under article 225 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union . thus , as a first step , the commission should after three months inform the organisers of a successful initiative how it intends to act on the initiative . as a second step , citizens should have the assurance that a successful citizens ' initiative will be the subject of an official public hearing at european union level . the commission and the european parliament , through its committee responsible , should cooperate with a view to organising this debate . the petitions committee of the european parliament should , in view of its long experience in dealing with citizens ' petitions , be a privileged contact in this matter . as a third step , the commission should come forward with its final response to the initiative after one year , either by proposing legislation accordingly or by explaining in a detailed manner its reasons for not acting on the initiative . the commission should also give a thorough explanation in the event that the legislative proposal diverges significantly from the citizens ' initiative .


### prior to initiating the collection of statements of support from signatories , the organiser shall ensure that the online collection system used for that purpose complies with the provisions of paragraph 4 . the organiser may , at any time , ask the relevant competent authority of the member state in which the data collected is or will be stored , to certify that the online collection system complies with those provisions . the organiser shall , in any case , request that certification prior to submitting statements of support for verification in accordance with article 9 . ### prior to initiating the collection of statements of support from signatories , the organisers shall ensure that the online collection system used for that purpose complies with the provisions of paragraph 4 . the organisers may , at any time , ask the relevant competent authority of the member state in which the data collected is or will be stored , to certify that the online collection system complies with those provisions . the organisers shall , in any case , request that certification prior to starting the collection of statements of support . the organiser shall make a copy of the certificate issued in that regard publicly available on the website used for the online collection system . within six months following the entry into force of this regulation , the commission shall make available an open - source software incorporating some of the technical and security features necessary for compliance with the provisions of this regulation regarding the online collection systems . the software shall be freely made available to organisers .


### this regulation shall enter into force on the twentieth day following that of its publication in the official journal of the european union . ### this regulation shall enter into force on the first day of the month following its publication in the official journal of the european union . it shall start to apply six months after its entry into force .


### five years after the entry into force of this regulation , the commission shall present a report to the european parliament and the council on the implementation of this regulation . ### three years after the entry into force of this regulation , and every three years thereafter , the commission shall present a report to the european parliament and the council on the implementation of this regulation , with special emphasis on online collection systems and the application of transparency requirements concerning the funding of initiatives , together , if appropriate , with a legislative proposal for amendment of this regulation .


### prior to initiating the collection of statements of support from signatories , the organiser shall ensure that the online collection system used for that purpose complies with the provisions of paragraph 4 . the organiser may , at any time , ask the relevant competent authority of the member state in which the data collected is or will be stored , to certify that the online collection system complies with those provisions . the organiser shall , in any case , request that certification prior to submitting statements of support for verification in accordance with article 9 . ### prior to initiating the collection of statements of support from signatories , the organisers shall ensure that the online collection system used for that purpose complies with the provisions of paragraph 4 . the organisers may , at any time , ask the relevant competent authority of the member state in which the data collected is or will be stored , to certify that the online collection system complies with those provisions . the organisers shall , in any case , request that certification prior to initiating the collection of statements of support . the organisers shall make a copy of the certificate issued in that regard publicly available on the website used for the online collection system . within six months following the entry into force of this regulation , the commission shall make available an open - source software incorporating some of the technical and security features necessary for compliance with the provisions of this regulation regarding the online collection systems . the software shall be freely made available to organisers . the commission shall inform the european parliament of the state of progress in the creation of the open - source software by no later than three months after the entry into force of this regulation .


### these procedures and conditions should be clear , simple , user - friendly and proportionate to the nature of the citizens ' initiative . ### these procedures and conditions should be clear , simple , user - friendly and proportionate to the nature of the citizens ' initiative , so as to encourage participation by citizens and to make the union more accessible . they should strike a judicious balance between rights and obligations .


### the commission may adopt , by means of delegated acts in accordance with articles 16 , 17 and 18 , amendments to the annexes of this regulation . ### the commission may adopt , by means of delegated acts in accordance with articles 16 , 17 and 18 , amendments to the annexes to this regulation , with the exception of annexes i , ii and iii .


### the organiser shall submit statements of support to the member state that issued the identification document indicated therein . ### the organiser shall submit statements of support to the member state where the signatories have their permanent residence . a signatory who is not a national of the member state in which he or she permanently resides may choose to be considered as coming either from the member state in which he or she permanently resides or from the member state of which he or she is a national . in cases where signatories have their permanent residence in a third country , the organiser shall submit statements of support to the member state of which they are nationals .


### where the commission receives a citizens ' initiative in accordance with article 10 it shall : publish the citizens ' initiative without delay on its website ; b . examine the citizens ' initiative and , within 4 months , set out in a communication its conclusions on the initiative , the action it intends to take , if any , and its reasons for doing so . ### where the commission receives a citizens ' initiative in accordance with article 10 it shall : publish the citizens ' initiative without delay on its website ; b . examine the citizens ' initiative and , within three months , set out in a communication its initial conclusions on the initiative ; c . organise a public hearing , if appropriate jointly with the european parliament , at which the organisers shall have the opportunity to explain in detail the matters raised by the initiative ; d . come forward with a legislative proposal within one year or include the proposal in its next year ' s work programme . if the commission does not present such a proposal it shall give the organisers as well as the european parliament and the council detailed explanations of its reasons for not acting on the initiative .


### . promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms , enhanced respect for minority rights , promotion of gender equality , non - discrimination and freedom of the press , and promotion of good neighbourly relations ; ### . promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms , enhanced respect for minority rights , promotion of gender equality , cultural diversity , non - discrimination and freedom of the press , and promotion of good neighbourly relations ;


### development of physical capital , the improvement of connections with union and regional networks . ### development of physical capital , the improvement of connections with union and regional networks , including accessible environment to increase physical mobility of people with reduced mobility .


### the european council has granted the status of candidate country to iceland , montenegro , the former yugoslav republic of macedonia and turkey . it has confirmed the european perspective for albania , bosnia and herzegovina , serbia as well as kosovo , which are considered potential candidates . ### the european council has granted the status of candidate country to iceland , montenegro , the former yugoslav republic of macedonia , turkey and , most recently , serbia . it has confirmed the european perspective for albania , bosnia and herzegovina , and kosovo , which are considered potential candidates .


### assistance under this regulation should be provided in accordance with the enlargement policy framework defined by the union for each beneficiary country reflected in the annual enlargement package of the commission , which includes the progress reports and the enlargement strategy , in the stabilisation and association agreements and in the european or accession partnerships . assistance should mainly focus on a limited number of policy areas that will help beneficiary countries strengthen democratic institutions and the rule of law , reform the judiciary and public administration , respect fundamental rights and promote gender equality and non - discrimination . it should also enhance their economic and social development , underpinning a smart , sustainable and inclusive growth agenda in line with the europe 2020 strategy and to align progressively with the copenhagen criteria . the coherence between the financial assistance and the overall progress made in the implementation of the pre - accession strategy should be strengthened . ### assistance under this regulation should be provided in accordance with the enlargement policy framework defined by the union for each beneficiary country reflected in the annual enlargement package of the commission , which includes the progress reports and the enlargement strategy , in the stabilisation and association agreements and in the european or accession partnerships , and corresponding to the actions envisaged in the common strategic framework and the strategy reports . assistance should mainly focus on a comprehensive number of policy areas that will help beneficiary countries strengthen their administrative and institutional capacity , build democratic institutions and the rule of law , strengthen the judiciary and public administration , respect fundamental rights and promote gender equality and non - discrimination . it should also enhance their economic and social development , underpinning a smart , sustainable and inclusive growth agenda in line with the europe 2020 strategy and to align progressively with the copenhagen criteria . the coherence between the financial assistance and the overall progress made in the implementation of the pre - accession strategy should be strengthened and made conditional on compliance with clear , specific and transparent performance indicators .


### it is in the union’s interest to assist beneficiary countries in their efforts to reform their systems in order to align them to those of the union . since the objective of this regulation cannot be sufficiently achieved by the member states and can be better achieved at union’s level , the union may adopt measures in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity as set out in article 5 of the treaty on european union . in accordance with the principle of proportionality as set out in that article , this regulation does not go beyond what is necessary in order to achieve this objective . ### it is in the union’s interest to cooperate with the beneficiary countries during the implementation of assistance under this regulation in order to support their efforts to reform their systems and align them to those of the union . since the objective of this regulation cannot be sufficiently achieved by the member states and can be better achieved at union’s level , the union may adopt measures in accordance with the principle of subsidiarity as set out in article 5 of the treaty on european union . in accordance with the principle of proportionality as set out in that article , this regulation does not go beyond what is necessary in order to achieve this objective .


### . development of physical capital , the improvement of connections with union and regional networks . ### . development of physical capital , especially transport infrastructure , and the improvement of connections with union and regional networks .


### economic reforms necessary to cope with competitive pressure and market forces within the union , while pursuing economic , social and environmental goals ; ### the implementation of economic reforms necessary to cope with competitive pressure and market forces within the union , while achieving economic , social and environmental progress ;


### assistance under this regulation should be provided in accordance with the enlargement policy framework defined by the union for each beneficiary country reflected in the annual enlargement package of the commission , which includes the progress reports and the enlargement strategy , in the stabilisation and association agreements and in the european or accession partnerships . assistance should mainly focus on a limited number of policy areas that will help beneficiary countries strengthen democratic institutions and the rule of law , reform the judiciary and public administration , respect fundamental rights and promote gender equality and non - discrimination . it should also enhance their economic and social development , underpinning a smart , sustainable and inclusive growth agenda in line with the europe 2020 strategy and to align progressively with the copenhagen criteria . the coherence between the financial assistance and the overall progress made in the implementation of the pre - accession strategy should be strengthened . ### assistance under this regulation should be provided in accordance with the enlargement policy framework defined by the union for each beneficiary country reflected in the annual enlargement package of the commission , which includes the progress reports and the enlargement strategy , in the stabilisation and association agreements and in the european or accession partnerships . assistance should mainly focus on a limited number of policy areas that will help beneficiary countries strengthen democratic institutions and the rule of law , reform the judiciary and public administration , respect fundamental rights and promote gender equality , the protection of national , ethnic , religious and linguistic minorities and non - discrimination , and tackle corruption and organised crime . it should also enhance their economic and social development , underpinning a smart , sustainable and inclusive growth agenda in line with the europe 2020 strategy and to align progressively with the copenhagen criteria . the coherence between the financial assistance and the overall progress made in the implementation of the pre - accession strategy should be strengthened .


### economic reforms necessary to cope with competitive pressure and market forces within the union , while pursuing economic , social and environmental goals ; ### economic and fiscal reforms in the areas of , inter alia , investment protection , competition and public procurement and sanitary and phytosanitary rules , necessary to cope with competitive pressure and market forces within the union , while pursuing economic , social and environmental goals ;


### strengthening of the ability of beneficiary countries to fulfil the obligations stemming from membership by supporting progressive alignment with and adoption , implementation and enforcement of the acquis communautaire , structural , cohesion , agricultural and rural development funds and policies of the union . ### strengthening of the ability , and in particular the institutional and administrative capacity , of beneficiary countries to fulfil the obligations stemming from membership by supporting progressive alignment with and adoption , implementation and enforcement of the acquis communautaire , structural , cohesion , agricultural and rural development funds and policies of the union .


### within two months from the date of publication in the official journal of the european union , a statement of opposition may be lodged to the commission by the authorities of a member state or of a third country , or a natural or legal person having a legitimate interest and established in a third country . ### within four months from the date of publication in the official journal of the european union , a notice of opposition may be lodged to the commission by the authorities of a member state or of a third country , or a natural or legal person having a legitimate interest and established in a third country . if a notice of opposition has been submitted to the commission , it must be followed within two months by a reasoned statement of opposition .


### any direct or indirect commercial use of a registered name in respect of products not covered by the registration insofar as those products are comparable to the products registered under that name or insofar as using the name exploits the reputation of the protected name ; ### any direct or indirect commercial use of a registered name in respect of products not covered by the registration insofar as those products are comparable to the products registered under that name or insofar as using the name exploits the reputation of the protected name , including in cases where they are used as ingredients ;


### a group having a legitimate interest may apply for approval of an amendment to a product specification . ### a group which has already registered a product as pgi , pdo or tsg , its successor organisation or a majority of producers recorded in the control system making an application and which have a legitimate interest may apply for approval of an amendment to a product specification .


### a name shall be eligible for registration as a traditional speciality guaranteed where it describes a specific processed product that : ### a name shall be eligible for registration as a traditional speciality guaranteed where it describes a specific product that :


### member states shall inform the commission on the names and addresses of the competent authorities referred to in article 33 . the commission shall make public the name and address of those authorities . ### member states shall inform the commission on the names and addresses of the competent authorities referred to in article 33 . the commission shall make public the name and address of those authorities . member states shall undertake checks , based on a risk analysis , to ensure compliance with the requirements of this regulation and , in the event of breaches , shall apply appropriate administrative penalties .


### in view of their specific nature , special provisions as to labelling should be adopted for protected designations of origin and protected geographical indications , requiring producers to use the appropriate union symbols or indications on packaging . the use of such symbols or indications should be made obligatory in the case of union names , on the one hand , to make this category of products and the guarantees attached to them better known to consumers and , on the other , to permit easier identification of these products on the market so as to facilitate checks . taking into account the requirements of the world trade organization , the use of such symbols or indications should be made voluntary for geographical indications and designations of origin originating in a third country . ### in view of their specific nature , special provisions as to labelling should be adopted for protected designations of origin and protected geographical indications , requiring producers to use the appropriate union symbols or indications on packaging . the use of such symbols or indications should be made obligatory in the case of union names , on the one hand , to make this category of products and the guarantees attached to them better known to consumers and , on the other , to permit easier identification of these products on the market so as to facilitate checks . taking into account the requirements of the world trade organization , the use of a specific symbol different from the european logo should be authorised only in the case of third - country products complying with the conditions of registration and the other legal requirements applying to european products with protected designations of origin or protected geographical indications .


### any direct or indirect commercial use of a registered name in respect of products not covered by the registration insofar as those products are comparable to the products registered under that name or insofar as using the name exploits the reputation of the protected name ; ### any direct or indirect commercial use of a registered name in respect of products or services not covered by the registration insofar as those products or services are comparable to the products registered under that name or insofar as using the name exploits the reputation of the protected name , including when it is used as an ingredient ;


### member states shall take the appropriate administrative and judicial steps to prevent or stop the unlawful use of protected designations of origin and protected geographical indications as referred to in paragraph 1 , in particular at the request of a producer group as provided for in point of article 42 . ### member states shall take the appropriate administrative and judicial steps to prevent or stop the unlawful use of protected designations of origin and protected geographical indications , as referred to in paragraph 1 , that are produced or marketed in that member state .


### in the case of products originating in third countries marketed under a name entered in the register , the indications referred to in paragraph 3 or the union symbols associated with them may appear on the labelling . ### in the case of products originating in third countries marketed under a name entered in the register in accordance with chapter iv of title v of this regulation , the indications referred to in paragraph 3 or the union symbols associated with them may appear on the labelling .


### any direct or indirect commercial use of a registered name in respect of products not covered by the registration insofar as those products are comparable to the products registered under that name or insofar as using the name exploits the reputation of the protected name ; ### any direct or indirect commercial use of a registered name in respect of products or services not covered by the registration insofar as those products or services are comparable to the products registered under that name or insofar as using the name exploits the reputation of the protected name , including when they are used as ingredients ;


### ‘ group’ means any association , irrespective of its legal form , mainly composed of producers or processors working with the same product ; ### ‘ group’ means any association , irrespective of its legal form , mainly composed of operators who produce , process or produce and process the product ;


### applications for registration of names under the quality schemes referred to in article 45 may only be submitted by groups . ### applications for registration of names under the quality schemes referred to in article 45 may only be submitted by groups as defined in article 3 .


### any misuse , imitation or evocation , even if the true origin of the product or service is indicated or if the protected name is translated or accompanied by an expression such as ‘ style’ , ‘ type’ , ‘ method’ , ‘ as produced in’ , ‘ imitation’ or similar ; ### any misuse , imitation or evocation , even if the true origin of the product or service is indicated or if the protected name is translated or accompanied by an expression such as ‘ style’ , ‘ type’ , ‘ method’ , ‘ as produced in’ , ‘ imitation’ or similar , in so far as those products or services are comparable to the products registered under that name or in so far as the misuse , imitation or evocation of the name exploits the reputation of the protected name , including when the product is used as an ingredient ;


### ‘ group’ means any association , irrespective of its legal form , mainly composed of producers or processors working with the same product ; ### ‘ group’ means any association , irrespective of its legal form , mainly composed of producers or processors working with the same product or of agents who produce or process that product ;


### a member state may , on a transitional basis only , grant protection to a name under this regulation at national level , with effect from the date on which an application is lodged with the commission . ### a member state may , on a transitional basis only , grant protection to a name or accept an amendment to a product specification under this regulation at national level , with effect from the date on which an application is lodged with the commission .


### under exceptional conditions , a natural or legal person may be treated as a group . ### under exceptional conditions and only if no group exists for a product , a natural or legal person may be treated as a group .


### no product is placed on the market under the traditional speciality guaranteed , the protected designation of origin or the protected geographical indication for at least five years . ### no product is placed on the market under the traditional speciality guaranteed , the protected designation of origin or the protected geographical indication for at least ten years .


### names registered in accordance with the requirements laid down in the first subparagraph of article 1 , and in article 13 of regulation no 509 / 2006 , including those registered pursuant to applications referred to in the second subparagraph of article 55 of this regulation , may continue to be used under the conditions provided for in regulation no 509 / 2006 , until 31 december 2017 . ### names registered in accordance with the requirements laid down in the first subparagraph of article 1 , and in article 13 of regulation no 509 / 2006 , including those registered pursuant to applications referred to in the second subparagraph of article 55 of this regulation , may continue to be used under the conditions provided for in regulation no 509 / 2006 , until 31 december 2017 , unless member states use the procedure set out in paragraph 2a of this article .


### the production steps of which all take place in the defined geographical area ; ### the production , processing and preparation of which take place in the defined geographical area ;


### the european union has for some time been pursuing the aim of simplifying the regulatory environment of the cap . this approach should also be applied to agricultural product quality policy regulations . ### the european union has for some time been pursuing the aim of simplifying the regulatory environment of the cap . this approach should also be applied to agricultural product quality policy regulations , with the aim of reducing the red - tape burden on producers .


### the list of medicinal products under intensive monitoring referred to in article 23 of regulation no 726 / 2004 ; ### the list of medicinal products referred to in article 23 of regulation no 726 / 2004 whose authorisation is subject to certain conditions or requirements ;


### the member states shall : take all appropriate measures to encourage doctors , pharmacists and other health - care professionals to report suspected adverse reactions to the national competent authority or the marketing authorisation holder ; ### the member states shall : take all appropriate measures to encourage patients , doctors , hospitals , pharmacists and other health - care professionals to report suspected adverse reactions to the national competent authority ;


### without prejudice to specific community legislation applicable to particular foods as regards to the requirements referred to in article 9 to , when appearing on the package or on the label attached thereto , the mandatory particulars listed in article&#160 ; 9 shall be printed on the package or on the label in characters of a font size of at least 3mm and shall be presented in a way so as to ensure a significant contrast between the print and background . ### without prejudice to specific community legislation applicable to particular foods as regards to the requirements referred to in article 9 to , when appearing on the package or on the label attached thereto , the mandatory particulars listed in article 9 shall appear on the package or on the label in a manner which ensures the legibility thereof .


### it is also important to provide consumers with information on the other alcoholic beverages . specific community rules already exist on the labelling of wine . council regulation no 1493 / 1999 of 17 may 1999 on the common organisation of the market in wine provides an exhaustive set of technical standards which fully cover all oenological practices , manufacturing methods and means of presentation and labelling of wines , thus ensuring that all stages in the chain are covered and that consumers are protected and properly informed . in particular , this legislation describes in a precise and exhaustive manner the substances likely to be used in the production process , together with the conditions for their use via a positive list of oenological practices and treatments ; any practice not included in this list is prohibited . therefore , it is appropriate to exempt wine at this stage from the obligation to list the ingredients and to provide for a nutrition declaration . as regards beer and spirits as defined in article 2 of regulation no . [ … ] of [ … ] of the european parliament and of the council on the definition , description , presentation , labelling and the protection of geographical indications of spirit drinks and repealing council regulation no 1576 / 892 , and in order to ensure a consistent approach and coherence with the conditions established for wine , the same kind of exemptions shall apply . however , the commission will produce a report after five years of the entry into force of this regulation and may propose , if necessary , specific requirements in the context of this regulation . 2 oj l [ … ] , [ … ] , p . [ … ] . ### it is also important to provide consumers with information on alcoholic beverages . specific community rules already exist on the labelling of wine . council regulation no 1493 / 1999 of 17 may 1999 on the common organisation of the market in wine provides an exhaustive set of technical standards which fully cover all oenological practices , manufacturing methods and means of presentation and labelling of wines , thus ensuring that all stages in the chain are covered and that consumers are protected and properly informed . in particular , this legislation describes in a precise and exhaustive manner the substances likely to be used in the production process , together with the conditions for their use via a positive list of oenological practices and treatments ; any practice not included in this list is prohibited . therefore , it is appropriate to exempt wine at this stage from the obligation to list the ingredients and to provide for a nutrition declaration . as regards beer , liqueur wines , sparkling wines , aromatised wines and similar products obtained from fruits other than grapes , fruit beer and spirits as defined in article 2 of regulation no 110 / 2008 of the european parliament and of the council of 15 january 2008 on the definition , description , presentation , labelling and the protection of geographical indications of spirit drinks2 , and alcoholic mixed beverages , and in order to ensure a consistent approach and coherence with the conditions established for wine , the same kind of exemptions should apply . however , the commission will produce a report after five years of the entry into force of this regulation and may propose , if necessary , specific requirements in the context of this regulation . 2 oj l 39 , 13 . 2 . 2008 , p . 16 .


### articles 29 to 34 shall apply from [ the first day of the month 3 years after the entry into force ] except in the case of foods labelled by food business operators with , on the date of entry into force , less than 10 employees and whose annual turnover and / or annual balance sheet total does not exceed eur 2 million where they shall apply [ the first day of the month 5 years after the entry into force ] . article 14 shall apply from [ the first day of the month 5 years after the entry into force ] . ### articles 29 to 34 shall apply from [ the first day of the month 3 years after the entry into force ] except in the case of foods labelled by food business operators with , on the date of entry into force , less than 100 employees and whose annual turnover and / or annual balance sheet total does not exceed eur 5 million where they shall apply [ the first day of the month 5 years after the entry into force ] . article 14 shall apply from [ the first day of the month 5 years after the entry into force ] . foods placed on the market prior to the entry into force of this regulation may be marketed until stocks are exhausted .


### this paragraph shall not apply to wine as defined in council regulation no 1493 / 1999 , beer , and spirits as defined in article 2 of regulation no . [ … ] of [ … ] of the european parliament and of the council on the definition , description , presentation , labelling and the protection of geographical indications of spirit drinks and repealing council regulation no 1576 / 89 . the commission shall produce a report after [ five years of the entry into force of this regulation ] concerning the application of this paragraph on these products and may accompany this report by specific measures determining the rules for a mandatory nutrition declaration for these products . those measures designed to amend non - essential elements of this regulation , by supplementing it shall be adopted in accordance with the regulatory procedure with scrutiny referred to in article 49 . ### this paragraph shall not apply to wine or wine products as defined in article 1 of regulation no 479 / 2008 and article 2 of council regulation no 1601 / 1991 , similar products , obtained from other than grapes , cider , perry beer , and spirits as defined in article 2 of regulation no°110 / 2008 , and other alcoholic beverages . the commission shall produce a report after [ five years of the entry into force of this regulation ] concerning the application of article 19 on these products and may accompany this report by specific measures determining the rules for labelling ingredients . those measures shall be adopted where necessary in accordance with the following procedure : as regards the products referred to in article 2 of regulation no 1601 / 91 , in accordance with the regulatory procedure laid down in article 13 of that regulation ; as regards the products referred to in regulation no 110 / 2008 , in accordance with the regulatory procedure laid down in article 25 of that regulation ; as regards other products , under the regulatory procedure with scrutiny referred to in article 49 . without prejudice to the specificities identified through the abovementioned procedures for products referred to in points and of paragraph 1 shall apply consistently and become applicable at the same time for all the products listed in article 20 and article 29 .


### it shall apply to all foods intended for the final consumer , including foods delivered by mass caterers and foods intended for supply to mass caterers . ### it shall apply to all prepacked foods intended for the final consumer , including foods delivered by mass caterers and foods intended for supply to mass caterers .


### member states should retain the right , depending on local practical conditions and circumstances , to lay down rules in respect of the provision of information concerning non - prepacked foods . although in such cases the consumer demand for other information is limited , information on potential allergens is considered very important . evidence suggests that most food allergy incidents can be traced back to non - prepacked food . therefore such information should always be provided to the consumer . ### information concerning potential allergens is also very important for allergic persons in connection with food which is not pre - packed and for mass catering services . therefore such information should always be available to the consumer in the place where the food is bought or consumed .


### without prejudice to specific community legislation applicable to particular foods as regards to the requirements referred to in article 9 to , when appearing on the package or on the label attached thereto , the mandatory particulars listed in article&#160 ; 9 shall be printed on the package or on the label in characters of a font size of at least 3mm and shall be presented in a way so as to ensure a significant contrast between the print and background . ### without prejudice to specific community legislation applicable to particular foods as regards to the requirements referred to in article 9 to , the mandatory particulars listed in article 9 shall appear on the package or on the label in a manner which ensures the legibility thereof . in a consultation procedure with representatives of the relevant interest groups , the european commission shall draw up binding rules governing the legibility of food information for consumers . those measures designed to amend non - essential elements of this regulation by supplementing it shall be adopted , in accordance with the regulatory procedure with scrutiny referred to in article 49 .


### the nutrition declaration may be expressed on a per portion basis alone if the food is prepacked as an individual portion . ### the nutrition declaration may be expressed on a per portion basis alone if the food is clearly prepacked as an individual portion or as more than one readily identifiable portion , all being of the same dimensions .


### the amount of energy and nutrients referred to in paragraph 1 shall be expressed per 100 g or per 100 ml or , subject to article 32 and , per portion . ### the amount of energy and nutrients referred to in paragraph 1 shall be expressed per 100 g or per 100 ml or per portion . if the food is prepacked as an individual portion , the energy and nutrition values referred to in paragraph 1 must also be indicated per portion . in addition , the amount of energy and nutrients may be indicated per portion if information is provided per portion , the number of portions which the package contains shall be indicated , the portion size must be realistic and the information shall be presented or explained in a manner which is comprehensible to the average consumer . in cooperation with food enterprises and the competent authorities of the member states , the commission shall develop guidelines for the indication of realistic portion sizes . these measures designed to amend non - essential elements of this regulation shall be adopted in accordance with the regulatory procedure with scrutiny referred to in article 49 .


### the particulars referred to article 31 related to the mandatory nutrition declaration shall be included in the principal field of vision . they shall be presented , where appropriate , together in a clear format in the following order : energy , fat , saturates , carbohydrates with specific reference to sugars , and salt . ### the particulars referred to article 31 related to the mandatory nutrition declaration shall be included in the same field of vision . they shall be presented , where appropriate , together in a clear format in the following order : energy , protein , carbohydrates with specific reference to sugars , fat , saturates , fibre , and salt .


### in addition to the forms of expression referred to in article&#160 ; 31 and , the nutrition declaration may be given by other forms of expression provided that the following essential requirements are met : the form of expression aims to facilitate consumer understanding of the contribution or importance of the food to the energy and nutrient content of a diet ; and it is based either on harmonised reference intakes , or in their absence , on generally accepted scientific advice on intakes for energy or nutrients ; and it is supported by evidence of understanding of and use of the presentation of the information by the average consumer . 2 . such additional forms of expression referred to in paragraph 1 shall be identified under a national scheme referred to in article 44 . ### in addition to the forms of expression referred to in article&#160 ; 31 and , the nutrition declaration may be given by graphic forms of expression provided that the following essential requirements are met : the form of expression aims to facilitate consumer understanding of the contribution or importance of the food to the energy and nutrient content of a diet ; and it is based on the reference intakes indicated in annex xi , part b , in relation to 100 g or 100 ml . if a product is prepacked as an individual portion or if it is supplied in quantities of less than 100 g / ml , an indication per portion relating to the quantity supplied shall be sufficient . in the absence of such reference intakes , the nutrition declaration is based on generally accepted scientific advice on intakes for energy or nutrients and it is supported by evidence of understanding of and use of the presentation of the information by the average consumer . 2 . model graphic presentations are shown in annex xiii , part ca .


### - food in packaging or containers the largest surface of which has an area of less than 25 cm2 ; ### - food in packaging or containers the largest surface of which has an area of less than 75 cm2 ;


### the particulars referred to article&#160 ; 31 related to the mandatory nutrition declaration shall be included in the principal field of vision . they shall be presented , where appropriate , together in a clear format in the following order : energy , fat , saturates , carbohydrates with specific reference to sugars , and salt . ### the particulars referred to in article 29 shall be presented in a clear format in the following order : energy , protein , carbohydrates and fat .


### without prejudice to labelling in accordance with specific community legislation , paragraphs 3 and 4 shall apply where the country of origin or the place of provenance of a food is voluntarily indicated to inform consumers that a food originates or comes from the european community or a given country or place . ### without prejudice to labelling in accordance with specific community legislation , and more specifically with council regulation no 509 / 2006 of 20 march 2006 on agricultural products and foodstuffs as traditional specialities guaranteed1 , council regulation no 510 / 2006 of 20 march 2006 on the protection of geographical indications and designations of origin for agricultural products and foodstuffs2 , council regulation no 479 / 2008 of 29 april 2008 on the common organisation of the market in wine , amending regulations no 1493 / 1999 , no 1782 / 2003 , no 1290 / 2005 , no 3 / 2008 and repealing regulations no 2392 / 86 and no 1493 / 19993 , regulation no 110 / 2008 of the european parliament and of the council of 15 january 2008 on the definition , description , presentation , labelling and the protection of geographical indications of spirit drinks and repealing council regulation no 1576 / 894 and council regulation no 1601 / 91 of 10 june 1991 laying down general rules on the definition , description and presentation of aromatized wines , aromatized wine - based drinks and aromatized wine - product cocktails5 , paragraphs 3 and 4 shall apply where the country of origin or the place of provenance of a food is voluntarily indicated to inform consumers that a food originates or comes from the european community or a given country or place . 1 oj l 93 , 31 . 3 . 2006 , p . 1 . 2 oj l 93 , 31 . 3 . 2006 , p . 12 . 3 oj l 148 , 6 . 6 . 2008 , p . 1 . 4 oj l 39 , 13 . 2 . 2008 , p . 16 . 5 oj l 149 , 14 . 6 . 1991 , p . 1 .


### in the case of packaging or containers the largest surface of which has an area of less than 10 cm2 only the particulars listed in article 9 , , and shall be mandatory on the package or on the label . the particulars referred to in article 9 shall be provided through other means or shall be available at the request of the consumer . ### in the case of packaging or containers the largest printable surface of which has an area of less than 100 cm2 only the particulars listed in article 9 , , and and article 29 shall be mandatory on the package or on the label . the particulars referred to in article 9 shall be provided through other means or shall be available at the request of the consumer .


### the amounts of fat , saturates , carbohydrates with specific reference to sugars , and salt . ### the amounts of protein , carbohydrates with specific reference to sugars , fat , saturates , fibre and sodium .


### the mandatory nutrition declaration shall be expressed , as appropriate , as a percentage of the reference intakes set out in part b of annex xi in relation to per 100 g or per 100 ml or per portion . when provided , the declaration on vitamins and minerals shall also be expressed as a percentage of the reference intakes set out in point 1 of part a of annex xi . ### the nutrition declaration for the following nutritional values shall in addition be expressed , as appropriate , as a percentage of the reference intakes set out in part b of annex xi in relation to per 100 g or per 100 ml or , pursuant to article 31 , per portion . when provided , the declaration on vitamins and minerals shall also be expressed as a percentage of the reference intakes set out in point 1 of part a of annex xi .


### the particulars referred to article&#160 ; 31 related to the mandatory nutrition declaration shall be included in the principal field of vision . they shall be presented , where appropriate , together in a clear format in the following order : energy , fat , saturates , carbohydrates with specific reference to sugars , and salt . ### the particulars referred to article&#160 ; 31 related to the mandatory nutrition declaration shall be displayed in the same field of vision . they shall be presented , where appropriate , together in a clear format in the following order : energy , fat , saturates , carbohydrates with specific reference to sugars , and salt .


### this paragraph shall not apply to wine as defined in council regulation no 1493 / 1999 , beer , and spirits as defined in article 2 of regulation no . [ … ] of [ … ] of the european parliament and of the council on the definition , description , presentation , labelling and the protection of geographical indications of spirit drinks and repealing council regulation no 1576 / 89 . the commission shall produce a report after [ five years of the entry into force of this regulation ] concerning the application of this paragraph on these products and may accompany this report by specific measures determining the rules for a mandatory nutrition declaration for these products . those measures designed to amend nonessential elements of this regulation by supplementing it , shall be adopted , in accordance with the regulatory procedure with scrutiny referred to in article 49 . ### this paragraph shall not apply to wine as defined in regulation no 1493 / 1999 , wine products as defined in regulations no 479 / 2008 and no 1601 / 1991 , fruit beer , beer , and spirits as defined in article 2 of regulation no 110 / 2008 , and to other alcoholic beverages . the commission shall produce a report after [ five years of the entry into force of this regulation ] concerning the application of this paragraph on these products and may accompany this report by specific measures determining the rules for a mandatory nutrition declaration for these products . those measures , designed to amend non - essential elements of this regulation by supplementing it , shall be adopted in accordance with the regulatory procedure with scrutiny referred to in article 49 .


### in addition to the nutrition declaration per 100g or per 100ml referred to in article 31 , the information may be expressed per portion as quantified on the label , provided that the number of portions contained in the package is stated . ### in addition to the nutrition labelling per 100g or per 100ml , it may be expressed per portion , provided that the quantity contained in the portion is stated .


### food labels should be clear and understandable to assist consumers wanting to make better - informed food and dietary choices . studies show that legibility is an important element in maximising the possibility that labelled information can influence its audience and that the small print size is one of the main causes of consumer dissatisfaction with food labels . ### food labels should be clear and understandable to assist consumers wanting to make better - informed food and dietary choices . studies show that legibility is an important element in maximising the possibility that labelled information can influence its audience and consequently factors such as size , font , colour and contrast should be considered together to ensure consumer satisfaction with food labels .


### the amount of energy and nutrients referred to in paragraph 1 shall be expressed per 100 g or per 100 ml or , subject to article 32 and , per portion . ### the amount of energy and nutrients referred to in paragraph 1 shall be expressed per 100 g or per 100 ml or per portion in accordance with the measurement unit of the net quantity .


### - waters intended for human consumption , including those where the only added ingredients are carbon dioxide and / or flavourings ; ### - natural mineral waters or other waters intended for human consumption , including those where the only added ingredients are carbon dioxide and / or flavourings ;


### without prejudice to specific community legislation applicable to particular foods as regards to the requirements referred to in article 9 to , when appearing on the package or on the label attached thereto , the mandatory particulars listed in article&#160 ; 9 shall be printed on the package or on the label in characters of a font size of at least 3mm and shall be presented in a way so as to ensure a significant contrast between the print and background . ### without prejudice to specific community legislation applicable to particular foods as regards to the requirements referred to in article 9 to , the mandatory particulars listed in article 9 shall appear on the package or on the label in a manner which ensures the legibility thereof . in a consultation procedure with representatives of the relevant interest groups , the european commission shall draw up binding rules governing the legibility of food information for consumers . those measures designed to amend non - essential elements of this regulation by supplementing it shall be adopted , in accordance with the regulatory procedure with scrutiny referred to in article 49 .


### the country of origin or place of provenance where failure to indicate this might mislead the consumer to a material degree as to the true country of origin or place of provenance of the food , in particular if the information accompanying the food or the label as a whole would otherwise imply that the food has a different country of origin or place of provenance ; in such cases the indication shall be in accordance with the rules laid down in article 35 and and those established in accordance with article 35 ; ### the country of origin or place of provenance of all meat . the rules relating to beef , veal , fish and shellfish shall apply to other meat ;


### - waters intended for human consumption , including those where the only added ingredients are carbon dioxide and / or flavourings ; - a herb , a spice or mixtures thereof ; - salt and salt substitutes ; ### - natural mineral waters or other waters intended for human consumption , including those where the only added ingredients are carbon dioxide and / or flavourings ; - herbs , spices , seasonings and mixtures thereof ; - salt and salt substitutes ; - sugar ;


### articles 29 to 34 shall apply from [ the first day of the month 3 years after the entry into force ] except in the case of foods labelled by food business operators with , on the date of entry into force , less than 10 employees and whose annual turnover and / or annual balance sheet total does not exceed eur 2 million where they shall apply [ the first day of the month 5 years after the entry into force ] . article 14 shall apply from [ the first day of the month 5 years after the entry into force ] . ### articles 29 to 34 shall apply from [ the first day of the month 3 years after the entry into force ] except in the case of foods labelled by food business operators with , on the date of entry into force , less than 100 employees and whose annual turnover and / or annual balance sheet total does not exceed eur 5 million where they shall apply [ the first day of the month 5 years after the entry into force ] . article 14 shall apply from [ the first day of the month 5 years after the entry into force ] . foods placed on the market prior to the entry into force of this regulation may be marketed until stocks are exhausted .


### the country of origin or place of provenance where failure to indicate this might mislead the consumer to a material degree as to the true country of origin or place of provenance of the food , in particular if the information accompanying the food or the label as a whole would otherwise imply that the food has a different country of origin or place of provenance ; in such cases the indication shall be in accordance with the rules laid down in article 35 and and those established in accordance with article 35 ; ### the country of origin or place of provenance where failure to indicate this might mislead the consumer as to the true provenance of the food ;


### the date of minimum durability or the ' use by ' date ; ### the date of minimum durability or , in the case of foodstuffs which , from the microbiological point of view , are perishable , the ' use by ' date ;


### member states should retain the right , depending on local practical conditions and circumstances , to lay down rules in respect of the provision of information concerning non - prepacked foods . although in such cases the consumer demand for other information is limited , information on potential allergens is considered very important . evidence suggests that most food allergy incidents can be traced back to non - prepacked food . therefore such information should always be provided to the consumer . ### information concerning potential allergens is also very important for allergic persons in connection with food which is not pre - packed and for mass catering services . therefore such information should always be available to the consumer in the place where the food is bought or consumed .


### member states shall ensure that at each airport a compulsory and regular procedure for consultation between the airport managing body and airport users is established with respect to the operation of the system of security charges and the level of such charges . that consultation shall take place at least once a year . ### member states shall ensure that a compulsory procedure for regular consultation between the competent body and airport users or the representatives or associations of airport users and the associations of air passengers is established with respect to the operation of the system of security charges and the level of such charges . such consultation shall take place at least once a year , unless agreed otherwise in the latest consultation . where a multi - annual agreement between the competent body and the airport users exists , the consultations shall take place as provided for in such agreement . member states shall retain the right to request more frequent consultations .


### this directive applies to any airport located in a territory subject to the provisions of the treaty . ### this directive applies to any airport open to commercial traffic and located in a territory subject to the provisions of the treaty whose annual traffic is over five million passenger movements , and to the airport with the most passenger movements in each member state .


### forecasts of the level of security charges ; ### forecasts of the level of security charges taking into account proposed investments , traffic growth and more stringent measures due to increased level of security threats ;


### member states shall ensure that at each airport a compulsory and regular procedure for consultation between the airport managing body and airport users is established with respect to the operation of the system of security charges and the level of such charges . that consultation shall take place at least once a year . ### member states shall ensure that a compulsory procedure for regular consultation between the competent body and airport users or the representatives or associations of airport users is established with respect to the operation of the system of security charges and the level of such charges . such consultation shall take place at least once a year , unless agreed otherwise in the last consultation round . if there is a multiannual agreement between the competent body and the airport users , the consultation shall take place as laid down in that agreement . member states shall , however , retain the right to require more frequent consultation .


### the programme should particularly address smes , as defined in commission recommendation 2003 / 361 / ec of 6 may 2003 concerning the definition of micro , small and medium - sized enterprises . particular attention should be paid to micro enterprises , enterprises engaged in craft activities and social enterprises . attention should also be paid to the specific characteristics and requirements of young entrepreneurs , new and potential entrepreneurs and female entrepreneurs , as well as specific target groups , such as migrants and entrepreneurs belonging to socially disadvantaged or vulnerable groups such as persons with disabilities . the programme should also encourage senior citizens to become and remain entrepreneurs and promote second chances for entrepreneurs . ### the programme should particularly address smes , as defined in commission recommendation 2003 / 361 / ec of 6 may 2003 concerning the definition of micro , small and medium - sized enterprises . particular attention should be paid to micro enterprises , enterprises engaged in craft activities and social enterprises . attention should also be paid to the specific characteristics and requirements of young entrepreneurs , new and potential entrepreneurs and female entrepreneurs , as well as specific target groups , such as migrants and entrepreneurs belonging to socially disadvantaged or vulnerable groups such as persons with disabilities . the programme should also encourage senior citizens whose experience and informal networks can prove invaluable to become and remain entrepreneurs and promote second chances for entrepreneurs .


### specific measures shall aim to facilitate smes access to markets outside the union , and to strengthening existing support services in those markets . smes may receive support through the programme as regards standards and intellectual property rights in priority third countries . ### specific measures shall aim to facilitate smes access to markets outside the union , and to strengthening existing support services in those markets . smes shall receive support through the programme in particular by providing information on market access barriers and business opportunities and by improving support services in areas such as standards and intellectual property rights in priority third countries .


### the financial instruments for growth - oriented smes may , where appropriate , be combined with other financial instruments established by member states and their managing authorities in accordance with [ article 33 of regulation no xxx / 201x [ new regulation on structural funds ] ] , and grants funded from the union , including under this regulation . ### the financial instruments for smes may , where appropriate , be combined with other financial instruments established by member states and their managing authorities in accordance with [ article 33 of regulation no xxx / 201x [ new regulation on structural funds ] ] , and grants funded from the union , including under this regulation .


### many of the union ' s competitiveness problems involve smes ' difficulties in getting access to finance because they struggle to demonstrate their credit - worthiness and have difficulties in gaining access to risk capital . this has a negative effect on the level and quality of the new enterprises created and on the growth of enterprises . the added value for the union of the proposed financial instruments lies inter alia in strengthening the single market for venture capital and in developing a pan - european sme finance market . the union’s actions should be complementary to the member states’ use of financial instruments for smes . the entities entrusted with the implementation of the actions should ensure additionality and avoid double financing through eu resources . ### many of the union ' s competitiveness problems involve smes ' difficulties in getting access to finance because they struggle to demonstrate their credit - worthiness and have difficulties in gaining access to risk capital . this has a negative effect on the level and quality of the new enterprises created and on the growth of enterprises , as well as the readiness of new entrepreneurs to take over viable companies in the context of a transfer of business / succession . eu financial instruments put in place in 2007 - 2013 , in particular smeg , have a proven added value and have brought a positive contribution to at least 120 000 smes , contributing to maintaining 851 000 jobs since the eruption of the financial crisis in 2008 . the enhanced added value for the union of the proposed financial instruments lies inter alia in strengthening the single market for venture capital and in developing a pan - european sme finance market . the union’s actions should be complementary to the member states’ use of financial instruments for smes and member states should do their utmost to increase the visibility and accessibility of such instruments on their territory . the entities entrusted with the implementation of the actions should ensure additionality and avoid double financing through eu resources .


### the programme should particularly address smes , as defined in commission recommendation 2003 / 361 / ec of 6 may 2003 concerning the definition of micro , small and medium - sized enterprises . particular attention should be paid to micro enterprises , enterprises engaged in craft activities and social enterprises . attention should also be paid to the specific characteristics and requirements of young entrepreneurs , new and potential entrepreneurs and female entrepreneurs , as well as specific target groups , such as migrants and entrepreneurs belonging to socially disadvantaged or vulnerable groups such as persons with disabilities . the programme should also encourage senior citizens to become and remain entrepreneurs and promote second chances for entrepreneurs . ### the programme should particularly address smes , as defined in commission recommendation 2003 / 361 / ec of 6 may 2003 concerning the definition of micro , small and medium - sized enterprises . particular attention should be paid to micro and craft enterprises in any sector of activity . attention should also be paid to the specific characteristics and requirements of young entrepreneurs , new and potential entrepreneurs and female entrepreneurs , as well as specific target groups , such as migrants and entrepreneurs belonging to socially disadvantaged or vulnerable groups such as persons with disabilities . the programme should also encourage senior citizens to become and remain entrepreneurs and promote second chances for entrepreneurs .


### global competition , demographic changes , resource constraints and emerging social trends generate challenges and opportunities for some sectors . for example , design - based sectors facing global challenges and characterised by a high proportion of smes need to adapt to reap the benefits and harness the untapped potential of high demand for personalised , inclusive products . as these challenges apply to all smes in the union in these sectors , a concerted effort at union level is necessary . ### global competition , demographic changes , resource constraints and emerging social trends generate challenges and opportunities for many sectors facing global challenges and characterised by a high proportion of smes . for example , design - based sectors need to adapt to benefit from the untapped potential of high demand for personalised , inclusive products . design - based consumer goods represent an important economic sector in the union and its enterprises contribute substantially to growth and jobs . as these challenges apply to all smes in the union in these sectors , a concerted effort at union level is necessary in order to create additional growth .


### to promote entrepreneurship , including among specific target groups ; ### to promote entrepreneurship , including among specific target groups , in particular young entrepreneurs ;


### the financial envelope for implementing the programme shall be eur 2 . 522 billion , of which approximately eur 1 . 4 billion shall be allocated to financial instruments . ### the financial envelope for implementing the programme shall be eur 2 . 522 billion , of which no less than eur 1 . 4 billion shall be allocated to financial instruments .


### in order to contribute to the reinforcement of competitiveness and sustainability of union enterprises , in particular smes , the advancement of the knowledge society , and development based on balanced economic growth , a programme for the competitiveness of enterprises and smes should be established . ### in order to contribute to the reinforcement of sustainable competitiveness of union enterprises , in particular smes , to support existing smes , to encourage an entrepreneurial culture and to promote the creation and growth of smes , a programme for the competitiveness of enterprises and smes should be established .


### to improve access to markets inside the union and globally . ### to improve access to markets inside the union but also at global level .


### in order to contribute to the reinforcement of competitiveness and sustainability of union enterprises , in particular smes , the advancement of the knowledge society , and development based on balanced economic growth , a programme for the competitiveness of enterprises and smes should be established . ### in order to contribute to the reinforcement of sustainable competitiveness of union enterprises , in particular smes , to encourage an entrepreneurial culture and to promote the creation and growth of smes , a programme for the competitiveness of enterprises and smes should be established .


### the programme should complement other union programmes , while acknowledging that each instrument should work according to its own specific procedures . thus , the same eligible costs should not receive double funding . with the aim to achieve added value and substantial impact of union funding , close synergies should be developed between the programme , other union programmes and the structural funds . ### the programme should complement other union programmes , while acknowledging that each instrument should work according to its own specific procedures . thus , the same eligible costs should not receive double funding . with the aim to achieve added value and substantial impact of union funding , close synergies should be developed between the programme , other union programmes , in particular horizon 2020 and the structural funds . these synergies may also build on the bottom - up national and regional experience of eureka and eurostars in supporting sme innovation and research activities .


### global competition , demographic changes , resource constraints and emerging social trends generate challenges and opportunities for some sectors . for example , design - based sectors facing global challenges and characterised by a high proportion of smes need to adapt to reap the benefits and harness the untapped potential of high demand for personalised , inclusive products . as these challenges apply to all smes in the union in these sectors , a concerted effort at union level is necessary . ### global competition , demographic changes , the limited nature of natural resources , and emerging social trends generate challenges and opportunities for many sectors facing global challenges and characterised by a high proportion of smes . for example , design - based sectors need to adapt in order to benefit from the untapped potential of high demand for personalised , inclusive products . design - based consumer goods represent an important economic sector in the union and its enterprises contribute substantially to growth and jobs . as these challenges apply to all smes in the union in these sectors , a concerted effort at union level is necessary in order to create additional growth .


### as outlined in the commission communication of 30 june 2010 , entitled ‘ europe , the world ' s no 1 tourist destination – a new political framework for tourism in europe’ , which was endorsed by the european council conclusions of october 2010 , tourism is an important sector of the union economy . enterprises in this sector substantially contribute to the union ' s gross domestic product and job creation and have significant potential for the development of entrepreneurial activity , since it is run mainly by smes . the lisbon treaty acknowledges the importance of tourism outlining the union specific competences in this field which complement the actions of member states . there is clear added value for the tourism initiative at union level , especially in providing data and analysis , in developing transnational promotion strategies and in exchanging best practices . ### as outlined in the commission communication of 30 june 2010 , entitled ‘ europe , the world ' s no 1 tourist destination – a new political framework for tourism in europe’ , which was endorsed by the european council conclusions of october 2010 , tourism is an important sector of the union economy . enterprises in this sector substantially contribute with 10% of the union ' s gross domestic product and 12% of total employment , making it the third most substantial socio - economic activity in the eu , and have significant potential for the development of entrepreneurial activity , since it is run mainly by smes .


### the commission may support initiatives accelerating the emergence of competitive industries based on cross - sectoral activities in areas characterised by a high proportion of smes and with a high contribution to the union ' s gdp . such initiatives shall stimulate development of new markets and the supply of goods and services based on the most competitive business models or on modified value - chains . they shall include initiatives to enhance productivity , resource efficiency , sustainability and corporate social responsibility . ### the commission shall support cross - sectoral initiatives accelerating the emergence of competitive industries . such initiatives shall stimulate development of new markets and the supply of goods and services based on the most competitive business models , improved products and processes , changed organisational structures or modified value - chains . they shall include initiatives to enhance productivity , sustainability , in particular resource and energy efficiency , and corporate social responsibility . the commission may also support sector - specific activities for those purposes , in areas characterised by a high proportion of smes and with a high contribution to the union ' s gdp , such as the tourism sector , where an added value at union level can be demonstrated .


### the commission may support initiatives accelerating the emergence of competitive industries based on cross - sectoral activities in areas characterised by a high proportion of smes and with a high contribution to the union ' s gdp . such initiatives shall stimulate development of new markets and the supply of goods and services based on the most competitive business models or on modified value - chains . they shall include initiatives to enhance productivity , resource efficiency , sustainability and corporate social responsibility . ### the commission shall support initiatives accelerating the emergence of competitive industries based on cross - sectoral activities in areas characterised by a high proportion of smes and with a high contribution to the union ' s gdp . such initiatives shall stimulate the uptake of new competitive business models , the cooperation of smes in new value chains and the development of new markets , and promote improved products and processes and flexible organisational structures . they may include initiatives to enhance productivity , resource efficiency , sustainability and corporate social responsibility . the activities shall encourage the adoption of new business models as well as the commercial use of relevant ideas for new products and services . the commission may also support sector - specific activities for those purposes , in areas characterised by a high proportion of smes and with a high contribution to the union´s gdp , such as the tourism sector , in cases where added value at union can be sufficiently demonstrated .


### to improve access to finance for smes in the form of equity and debt ; ### to improve access to finance and financial instruments for smes in the form of equity and debt ;


### the commission may support member states ' measures to build - up entrepreneurial education , skills and attitudes , in particular among potential and new entrepreneurs . ### the commission may support member states ' measures to build - up entrepreneurial education , skills and attitudes , in particular among potential and new entrepreneurs as well as promoting initiatives that support giving formerly bankrupt entrepreneurs second chances .


### specific measures shall aim to facilitate smes access to markets outside the union , and to strengthening existing support services in those markets . smes may receive support through the programme as regards standards and intellectual property rights in priority third countries . ### specific measures shall aim to facilitate smes access to markets outside the union , and to strengthening existing support services in those markets , such as the provision of diagnostic tools , the distribution of information and support to enable these enterprises to continue their international activities . smes may receive support through the programme as regards standards and intellectual property rights in priority third countries . such support shall aim to cover the needs of all smes , whether they are first - time exporters , occasional exporters or long - standing exporters .


### the commission may support actions to improve smes access to the single market including information provision and awareness - raising . ### the commission shall support actions to improve smes access to the single market including information provision and awareness - raising .


### the financial envelope for implementing the programme shall be eur 2 . 522 billion , of which approximately eur 1 . 4 billion shall be allocated to financial instruments . ### within the meaning of point [ 17 ] of the interinstitutional agreement of xxx / 201z . between the european parliament , the council and the commission on cooperation in budgetary matters and sound financial management , the financial envelope for implementing the programme for its entire duration shall be [ . . . ] of the total 2014 - 2020 mff ceilings , of which approximately 60 % shall be allocated to financial instruments . that amount shall constitute the prime reference for the budgetary authority during the annual budgetary procedure .


### details of the actions referred to in paragraph 1 of this article are laid down in annex ii . ### details of the actions referred to in paragraph 1 of this article are laid down in article 14 .


### the financial envelope for implementing the programme shall be eur 2 . 522 billion , of which approximately eur 1 . 4 billion shall be allocated to financial instruments . ### the financial envelope for implementing the programme shall be eur [ 2 . 522 billion ] , of which approximately 65% shall be allocated to financial instruments .


### the financial envelope for implementing the programme shall be eur 2 . 522 billion , of which approximately eur 1 . 4 billion shall be allocated to financial instruments . ### the financial envelope for implementing the programme shall be [ eur 2 . 522 billion ] , of which at least 55 , 5 % shall be allocated to financial instruments . the commission may decide to amend the 55 , 5% threshold where the supply of finance under those financial instruments exceeds demand .


### the enterprise europe network has proven its added value for european smes as a one - stop - shop for business support by helping enterprises to improve their competitiveness and explore business opportunities in the single market and beyond . the streamlining of methodologies and working methods and provisions of a european dimension to business support services can only be achieved at union level . in particular , the network has helped smes to find cooperation or technology transfer partners , get advice on sources of financing , and on intellectual property and on eco - innovation and sustainable production . it has also obtained feedback on union legislation and standards . its unique expertise is particularly important in overcoming information asymmetries and alleviating transaction costs associated with cross - border transactions . ### the enterprise europe network has proven its added value for european smes as a one - stop - shop for business support services by helping enterprises to improve their competitiveness and explore business opportunities in the single market and in third countries . the streamlining of methodologies and working methods and provisions of a european dimension to business support services can only be achieved at union level . in particular , the network has helped smes to find cooperation or technology transfer partners in foreign countries , get advice on sources of financing , and on intellectual property and on eco - innovation and sustainable production . it has also obtained feedback on union legislation and standards . its unique expertise is particularly important in overcoming information asymmetries and alleviating transaction costs associated with cross - border transactions . the network has also successfully encouraged the participation of smes in eu funding programmes such as seventh framework programme .


### the programme should complement other union programmes , while acknowledging that each instrument should work according to its own specific procedures . thus , the same eligible costs should not receive double funding . with the aim to achieve added value and substantial impact of union funding , close synergies should be developed between the programme , other union programmes and the structural funds . ### the programme should complement other union programmes , while acknowledging that each instrument should work according to its own specific procedures . thus , the same eligible costs should not receive double funding . with the aim to achieve added value and substantial impact of union funding , close synergies should be developed between the programme and other union programmes , in particular horizon 2020 — the new framework programme for research and innovation and the structural funds .


### to improve access to finance for smes in the form of equity and debt ; ### to improve access to markets , particularly inside the union and at global level ;


### the commission shall support actions which aim to improve access to finance for smes in their start - up and growth phases , being complementary to the member states ' use of financial instruments for smes at national and regional level . in order to ensure complementarity , these actions will be closely coordinated with those undertaken in the framework of cohesion policy and at national level . such actions shall aim to stimulate the supply of both equity and debt finance . ### the commission shall support actions which aim to improve access to finance for smes in their start - up , growth and transfer phases , being complementary to the member states ' use of financial instruments for smes at national and regional level . in order to ensure complementarity , these actions will be closely coordinated with those undertaken in the framework of cohesion policy , horizon 2020 and at national or regional level . such actions shall aim to stimulate the supply of both equity and debt finance .


### to improve the competitiveness of european enterprises , notably smes , the member states and the commission need to create a favourable business environment . the interests of smes and the sectors in which they are most active need particular attention . initiatives at union level are necessary in order to develop a level playing field for smes and to exchange information and knowledge on a european scale . ### to improve the competitiveness of european enterprises , notably smes , the member states and the commission need to create a favourable business environment . the interests of smes and the sectors in which they are most active need particular attention . initiatives at union level are necessary in order to develop a level playing field for smes and to exchange information and knowledge on a european scale . it is important to develop platform technologies triggering leadership and competitive advantage in a wide number of sectors having economic impact .


### the commission may support actions intended to develop new competitiveness strategies . such actions may include the following : ### the commission shall support actions intended to develop new strategies to ensure the competitiveness and ongoing development of businesses , as well as actions to help implement the small business act for europe . such actions may include the following :


### as outlined in the commission communication of 30 june 2010 , entitled ‘ europe , the world ' s no 1 tourist destination – a new political framework for tourism in europe’ , which was endorsed by the european council conclusions of october 2010 , tourism is an important sector of the union economy . enterprises in this sector substantially contribute to the union ' s gross domestic product and job creation and have significant potential for the development of entrepreneurial activity , since it is run mainly by smes . the lisbon treaty acknowledges the importance of tourism outlining the union specific competences in this field which complement the actions of member states . there is clear added value for the tourism initiative at union level , especially in providing data and analysis , in developing transnational promotion strategies and in exchanging best practices . ### as outlined in the commission communication of 30 june 2010 , entitled ‘ europe , the world ' s no 1 tourist destination – a new political framework for tourism in europe’ , which was endorsed by the european council conclusions of october 2010 , tourism is an important sector of the union economy . enterprises in this sector substantially contribute with 10% of the union ' s gross domestic product and 12% of total employment , making it the third most substantial socio - economic activity in the eu , and have significant potential for the development of entrepreneurial activity , since it is run mainly by smes .


### global competition , demographic changes , resource constraints and emerging social trends generate challenges and opportunities for some sectors . for example , design - based sectors facing global challenges and characterised by a high proportion of smes need to adapt to reap the benefits and harness the untapped potential of high demand for personalised , inclusive products . as these challenges apply to all smes in the union in these sectors , a concerted effort at union level is necessary . ### global competition , demographic changes , the limited nature of natural resources , and emerging social trends generate challenges and opportunities for many sectors facing global challenges and characterised by a high proportion of smes . for example , design - based sectors need to adapt in order to benefit from the untapped potential of high demand for personalised , inclusive products . design - based consumer goods represent an important economic sector in the union and its enterprises contribute substantially to growth and jobs . as these challenges apply to all smes in the union in these sectors , a concerted effort at union level is necessary in order to create additional growth .