### in the context of greater market - orientation of the cap , as outlined by the communication on ‘ the future of food and farming’ , market exposure , climate change and associated frequency and severity of extreme weather events , as well as sanitary and phytosanitary crises , may lead to risks of price volatility and increasing pressures on incomes . thus , although farmers are ultimately responsible for designing their on - farm strategies , a robust framework should be set up to ensure appropriate risk management . to this aim , member states and farmers may be able to draw on a union - level platform on risk management for capacity - building in order to provide farmers with adequate financial instruments for investments and access to working capital , training , knowledge transfer and advice . ### in the context of greater market - orientation of the cap , as outlined by the communication on ‘ the future of food and farming’ , market exposure , trade agreements with third countries , climate change and associated frequency and severity of extreme weather events , as well as sanitary and phytosanitary crises , may lead to risks of price volatility and increasing pressures on incomes . inequalities in the food chain , mainly at the expense of the primary sector , which is the weakest link , also have an adverse effect on producers’ incomes . thus , although farmers are ultimately responsible for designing their on - farm strategies , a robust framework should be set up to ensure appropriate risk management . to this aim , member states and farmers may be able to draw on a union - level platform on risk management for capacity - building in order to provide farmers with adequate financial instruments for investments and access to working capital , training , knowledge transfer and advice .


### the creation and development of new economic activity in the agricultural sector by young farmers is financially challenging and constitutes an element that should be considered in the allocation and targeting of direct payments . this development is essential for the competitiveness of the agricultural sector in the union and , for this reason , member states may establish a complementary income support for young farmers . this type of interventions should be established to provide young farmers with an additional income support after the initial setting up . ### the creation and development of new economic activity in the agricultural sector by young farmers and new farmers is financially challenging and constitutes an element that should be considered in the allocation and targeting of direct payments . this development is essential for the competitiveness of the agricultural sector in the union and , for this reason , member states may establish a complementary income support for young farmers and start - up support for farms and other rural enterprises .


### forestry measures should contribute to the implementation of the union forest strategy , and be based on member states ' national or sub - national forest programs or equivalent instruments , which should build on the commitments stemming from the regulation on the inclusion of greenhouse gas emission and removals from land use , land use energy and forestry [ lulucf regulation ] and those made in the ministerial conferences on the protection of forests in europe . interventions should be based on forest management plans or equivalent instruments and may comprise forest area development and sustainable management of forests , including the afforestation of land and the creation and regeneration of agroforestry systems ; the protection , restoration and improvement of forest resources , taking into account adaptation needs ; investments to guarantee and enhance forest conservation and resilience , and the provision of forest ecosystem and climate services ; and measures and investments in support of the renewable energy and bio - economy . ### forestry measures should contribute to the implementation of the union forest strategy , and be based on member states ' national or sub - national forest programs or equivalent instruments , which should build on the commitments stemming from the regulation on the inclusion of greenhouse gas emission and removals from land use , land use energy and forestry [ lulucf regulation ] and those made in the ministerial conferences on the protection of forests in europe . interventions should be based on forest management plans or equivalent instruments and may comprise forest area development and sustainable management of forests , including the afforestation of land , fire prevention and the creation and regeneration of agroforestry systems ; the protection , restoration and improvement of forest resources , taking into account adaptation needs ; investments to guarantee and enhance forest conservation and resilience , and the provision of forest ecosystem and climate services ; and measures and investments in support of the renewable energy and bio - economy .


### in order to ensure a fair income and a resilient agricultural sector across the union territory , member states may grant support to farmers in areas facing natural and other area - specific constraints . as regards payments for anc , the designation of the 2014 - 2020 rural development policy should continue to apply . for the cap to deliver enhanced union added on the environment and reinforce its synergies with the financing of investments in nature and biodiversity , it is necessary to keep a separate measure aiming at compensating beneficiaries for disadvantages related to the implementation of natura 2000 and water framework directives . support should therefore continue to be granted to farmers and forest holders to help address specific disadvantages resulting from the implementation of directive 2009 / 147 / ec and directive 92 / 43 / eec and in order to contribute to the effective management of natura 2000 sites . support should also be made available to farmers to help address disadvantages in river basin areas resulting from the implementation of the water framework directive . support should be linked to specific requirements described in the cap strategic plans that go beyond relevant mandatory standards and requirements . member states should also ensure that payments to farmers do not lead to double funding with eco schemes . furthermore , the specific needs of natura 2000 areas should be taken into account by member states in the overall design of their cap strategic plans . ### in order to ensure a fair income and a resilient agricultural sector across the union territory , member states may grant support to farmers in areas facing natural and other area - specific economic or social constraints . as regards payments for anc , the designation of the 2014 - 2020 rural development policy should continue to apply . for the cap to deliver enhanced union added on the environment and reinforce its synergies with the financing of investments in nature and biodiversity , it is necessary to keep a separate measure aiming at compensating beneficiaries for disadvantages related to the implementation of natura 2000 and water framework directives . support should therefore continue to be granted to farmers and forest holders to help address specific disadvantages resulting from the implementation of directive 2009 / 147 / ec and directive 92 / 43 / eec and in order to contribute to the effective management of natura 2000 sites . support should also be made available to farmers to help address disadvantages in river basin areas resulting from the implementation of the water framework directive . support should be linked to specific requirements described in the cap strategic plans that go beyond relevant mandatory standards and requirements . member states should also ensure that payments to farmers do not lead to double funding with eco schemes . furthermore , the specific needs of natura 2000 areas should be taken into account by member states in the overall design of their cap strategic plans .


### young farmers and new entrants still face significant barriers regarding access to land , high prices and access to credit . their businesses are more threatened by price volatility and their needs in terms of training in entrepreneurial and risk management skills are high . it is therefore essential to continue the support for the setting up of new businesses and new farms . member states should provide for a strategic approach and identify a clear and coherent set of interventions for generational renewal under the specific objective dedicated to this issue . to this aim , member states may set in their cap strategic plans preferential conditions for financial instruments for young farmers and new entrants , and should include in their cap strategic plan the ring - fencing of at least an amount corresponding to 2% of the annual direct payments ' envelope . an increase of the maximum amount of aid for the installation of young farmers and rural business start - ups , up to eur 100 . 000 , which can be accessed also through or in combination with financial instrument form of support , should be established . ### young farmers and new entrants still face significant barriers regarding access to land , high prices and access to credit . their businesses are more threatened by price volatility and their needs in terms of training in entrepreneurial and risk management skills are high . it is therefore essential to continue the support for the setting up of new businesses and new farms . member states should provide for a strategic approach and identify a clear and coherent set of interventions for generational renewal under the specific objective dedicated to this issue . to this aim , member states may set in their cap strategic plans preferential conditions for financial instruments for young farmers and new entrants , and should include in their cap strategic plan the ring - fencing of at least an amount corresponding to 2% of the annual direct payments ' envelope . an increase of the maximum amount of aid for the installation of young farmers and rural business start - ups , up to eur 100 . 000 , which can be accessed also through or in combination with financial instrument form of support , should be established . one - third of this amount may be also made available for the early retirement schemes for farmers , which would also speed - up the generational renewal .


### young farmers and new entrants still face significant barriers regarding access to land , high prices and access to credit . their businesses are more threatened by price volatility and their needs in terms of training in entrepreneurial and risk management skills are high . it is therefore essential to continue the support for the setting up of new businesses and new farms . member states should provide for a strategic approach and identify a clear and coherent set of interventions for generational renewal under the specific objective dedicated to this issue . to this aim , member states may set in their cap strategic plans preferential conditions for financial instruments for young farmers and new entrants , and should include in their cap strategic plan the ring - fencing of at least an amount corresponding to 2% of the annual direct payments ' envelope . an increase of the maximum amount of aid for the installation of young farmers and rural business start - ups , up to eur 100 . 000 , which can be accessed also through or in combination with financial instrument form of support , should be established . ### young farmers and new entrants still face significant barriers regarding access to land , high prices and access to credit . their businesses are more threatened by price volatility and their needs in terms of training in entrepreneurial and risk management skills are high . it is therefore essential to continue the support for the setting up of new businesses and new farms . member states should provide for a strategic approach and identify a clear and coherent set of interventions for generational renewal under the specific objective dedicated to this issue . to this aim , member states may set in their cap strategic plans preferential conditions for financial instruments for young farmers and new entrants , and should include in their cap strategic plan the ring - fencing of at least an amount corresponding to 2% of the annual direct payments ' envelope . an increase of the maximum amount of aid for the installation of farmers and rural business start - ups , up to eur 100 . 000 , which can be accessed also through or in combination with financial instrument form of support , should be established .


### support should enable the establishment and implementation of cooperation between at least two entities in view of achieving cap objectives . support can entail all aspects of such cooperation , such as the setting up of quality schemes ; collective environmental and climate action ; the promotion of short supply chain and local markets ; pilot projects ; operational group projects within the eip for agricultural productivity and sustainability local development projects , smart villages , buyers ' clubs and machinery rings ; farm partnerships ; forest management plans ; networks and clusters ; social farming ; community supported agriculture ; actions within the scope of leader ; and the setting up of producer groups and producer organisations , as well as other forms of cooperation deemed necessary to achieve the specific objectives of the cap . ### support should enable the establishment and implementation of cooperation between at least two entities in view of achieving cap objectives . support can entail all aspects of such cooperation , such as the setting up of quality schemes ; collective environmental and climate action ; the promotion of short supply chain and local markets ; the development of traditional local and regional brands ; pilot projects ; operational group projects within the eip for agricultural productivity and sustainability local development projects , smart villages , buyers ' clubs and machinery rings ; farm partnerships ; forest management plans ; networks and clusters ; social farming ; community supported agriculture ; actions within the scope of leader ; and the setting up of producer groups and producer organisations , as well as other forms of cooperation deemed necessary to achieve the specific objectives of the cap .


### the communication on ‘ the future of food and farming’ mentions the exchange of knowledge and focus on innovation as a cross cutting objective for the new cap . the cap should continue to support the interactive innovation model , which enhances the collaboration between actors to make best use of complementary types of knowledge with a view to spreading practical solutions . farm advisory services should be strengthened within the akis . the cap strategic plan should provide information on how advisory services , research and rural networks will work together . each member state or region , as appropriate , can fund a number of actions aimed at knowledge exchange and innovation , using the types of interventions developed in this regulation . ### the communication on ‘ the future of food and farming’ mentions the exchange of knowledge and focus on innovation as a cross cutting objective for the new cap . the cap should continue to support the interactive innovation model , which enhances the collaboration between actors to make best use of complementary types of knowledge with a view to spreading practical solutions . farm advisory services should be strengthened within the akis . the cap strategic plan should provide information on how advisory services , research and rural networks will work together . each member state or region , as appropriate , can fund a number of actions aimed at knowledge exchange and innovation , using the types of interventions developed in this regulation and securing funding for access to cutting - edge technology .


### the eafrd should support through technical assistance , at the initiative of the commission , actions relating to the fulfilment of the tasks referred to in [ article 7 hzr ] . technical assistance may also be provided , at the initiative of member states , for the purpose of the fulfilment of the tasks necessary for the effective administration and implementation of support in relation to the cap strategic plan . an increase of the technical assistance at the initiative of member states is only available for malta . ### the eafrd should support through technical assistance , at the initiative of the commission , actions relating to the fulfilment of the tasks referred to in [ article 7 hzr ] . technical assistance may also be provided , at the initiative of member states , for the purpose of the fulfilment of the tasks necessary for the effective administration and implementation of support in relation to the cap strategic plan . the overall amount for the support from eafrd for technical assistance should be increased to 5 % of the financial allocation for eafrd . an increase of the technical assistance at the initiative of member states is only available for malta .


### for the purpose of types of interventions in the form of direct payments , ' eligible hectare ' shall be defined in a way that it includes any agricultural area of the holding : ### for the purpose of types of interventions in the form of direct payments , ' eligible hectare ' shall be defined in a way that it includes any agricultural area of the holding and endows proper rights of use :


### support from the eagf and eafrd shall aim to further improve the sustainable development of farming , food and rural areas and shall contribute to achieving the following general objectives : ### support from the eagf and eafrd shall aim to further improve the sustainable development of farming , food production and rural areas and shall contribute to achieving the following general objectives in the economic , environmental and social spheres :


### foster sustainable development and efficient management of natural resources such as water , soil and air ; ### foster sustainable development through more efficient management of natural resources ;


### attract young farmers and facilitate business development in rural areas ; ### attract young farmers and new farmers , particularly in the most depopulated areas , and facilitate business development in rural areas ;


### attract young farmers and facilitate business development in rural areas ; ### improve generational renewal , attract and sustain young farmers and facilitate business development in rural areas ;


### attract young farmers and facilitate business development in rural areas ### attract new farmers and facilitate business development in rural areas


### when pursuing the specific objectives member states shall ensure simplification and performance of the cap support . ### with a view to achieving the specific objectives the european commission and member states shall ensure that the administrative burden of the cap support is reduced as far as possible .


### member states shall ensure that all agricultural areas including land which is no longer used for production purposes , is maintained in good agricultural and environmental condition . member states shall define , at national or regional level , minimum standards for beneficiaries for good agricultural and environmental condition of land in line with the main objective of the standards as referred to in annex iii , taking into account the specific characteristics of the areas concerned , including soil and climatic condition , existing farming systems , land use , crop rotation , farming practices , and farm structures . ### member states shall ensure that all agricultural areas including land which is no longer used for production purposes , is maintained in good agricultural and environmental condition . with that aim in mind , they shall , in particular , see to it that minimal standards at regional - and where appropriate , sub - regional - level are established for beneficiaries for good agricultural and environmental condition of land in line with the main objective of the standards as referred to in annex iii , taking into account the specific soil and climate conditions and characteristics of the areas concerned , such as existing farming systems , land use , crop rotation , and farming practices .


### to calculate the amounts referred to in points a ) and b ) , member states shall use the average standard salaries linked to an agricultural activity at national or regional level multiplied by the number of annual work units declared by the farmer concerned . ### to calculate the amounts referred to in points a ) and b ) , member states shall use the actual salary costs or the average standard salaries linked to an agricultural activity at national or regional level multiplied by the number of annual work units declared by the farmer concerned . member states may use indicators on standard salary costs associated with various types of farm , reference data on employment generation by farm type , as well as records containing work outsourced by farms .


### member states may grant payments to small farmers as defined by member states by way of a round sum , replacing direct payments under this section and section 3 of this chapter . member states shall design the corresponding intervention in the cap strategic plan as optional for the farmers . ### member states may grant payments to small farmers as defined by member states by way of a lump sum or an amount per hectare , replacing direct payments under this section and section 3 of this chapter . member states shall design the corresponding intervention in the cap strategic plan as optional for the farmers .


### member states may provide for complementary income support for young farmers under the conditions set out in this article and as further specified in their cap strategic plans . ### member states may provide for complementary income support for young farmers , defined in accordance with the criteria laid down in article&#160 ; 4 , under the conditions set out in this article and as further specified in their cap strategic plans .


### the complementary income support for young farmers shall take the form of an annual decoupled payment per eligible hectare . ### the complementary income support for young farmers shall be granted for a maximum period of 7 years and shall take the form of an annual decoupled payment per eligible hectare ; it may be calculated on a national basis or in accordance with the territories defined under article 18 .


### member states shall provide support for voluntary schemes for the climate and the environment under the conditions set out in this article and as further specified in their cap strategic plans . ### member states may provide support for voluntary schemes for the climate and the environment under the conditions set out in this article and as further specified in their cap strategic plans .


### member states shall establish the list of agricultural practices beneficial for the climate and the environment . ### for the purpose of providing support under this article , member states shall establish the list of agricultural practices beneficial for the climate and the environment . those practices shall be designed to meet one or more of the specific environmental - and climate - related objectives laid down in points , and of article 6 .


### soil conservation , including the enhancement of soil carbon ; ### soil conservation , including enhancing the soil ' s capacity to retain water and increasing soil carbon content ;


### advisory services and technical assistance , in particular regarding climate change adaptation and mitigation ; ### advisory services and technical assistance , in particular regarding adapting to climate change ;


### promotion , communication and marketing including actions and activities aimed in particular at raising consumer awareness about the union quality schemes and the importance of healthy diets , and at diversification of markets ; ### promotion , communication and marketing including actions and activities aimed in particular at raising consumer awareness about the union quality schemes and the importance of healthy diets , and at diversification of agricultural activities , including the production of agricultural goods with local and regional characteristics , and activities related to farming such as agro - tourism and forestry ;


### installation of young farmers and rural business start - up ; ### installation of young farmers , new farmers and rural business start - up ;


### installation of young farmers and rural business start - up ### installation of young farmers , early retirement schemes and rural business start - up


### installation of young farmers and rural business start - up ### installation of young farmers , new farmers and rural business start - up ;


### purchase of land with the exception of land purchase for environmental conservation or land purchased by young farmers through the use of financial instruments ; ### purchase of land with the exception of land purchase for environmental conservation or land purchased by young or new farmers through the use of financial instruments ;


### investments in basic services in rural areas ; ### investments in basic services in rural areas , with emphasis on digitalisation of rural economy ;


### member states may grant support for the installation of young farmers and rural business start - up under the conditions set out in this article and as further specified in their cap strategic plans with the view of contributing to the achievement of the specific objectives set out in article 6 . ### member states may grant support for the installation of young farmers , early retirement schemes and rural business start - up under the conditions set out in this article and as further specified in their cap strategic plans with the view of contributing to the achievement of one or more of the specific objectives set out in article 6 .


### member states may grant support for the installation of young farmers and rural business start - up under the conditions set out in this article and as further specified in their cap strategic plans with the view of contributing to the achievement of the specific objectives set out in article 6 . ### member states may grant support for the installation of farmers and rural business start - up under the conditions set out in this article and as further specified in their cap strategic plans with the view of contributing to the achievement of the specific objectives set out in article 6 .


### the managing authority of the cap strategic plan or other designated intermediate bodies shall define selection criteria for interventions relating to the following types of interventions : investments , installation of young farmers and rural business start - up , cooperation , knowledge exchange and information , after consultation of the monitoring committee referred to in article 111 . selection criteria shall aim to ensure equal treatment of applicants , better use of financial resources and targeting of the support in accordance with the purpose of the interventions . ### the managing authority of the cap strategic plan or other designated intermediate bodies shall define selection criteria for interventions relating to the following types of interventions : investments , installation of young farmers and new farmers , rural business start - up , cooperation , knowledge exchange and information , specific measures in favour of rural women , after consultation of the monitoring committee referred to in article 111 . selection criteria shall aim to ensure equal treatment of applicants , better use of financial resources and targeting of the support in accordance with the purpose of the interventions . beneficiaries will be selected on the basis of calls for proposals , applying effective economic , social and environmental criteria .


### at least 30% of the total eafrd contribution to the cap strategic plan as set out in annex ix shall be reserved for interventions addressing the specific environmental - and climate - related objectives set out in points , and of article 6 of this regulation , excluding interventions based on article 66 . ### at least 30% of the total eafrd contribution to the cap strategic plan as set out in annex ix shall be reserved for interventions of all types addressing the specific environmental - and climate - related objectives set out in points , and of article 6 of this regulation .


### a maximum 4 % of the total eafrd contribution to the cap strategic plan as set out in annex ix may be used to finance the actions of technical assistance at the initiative of the member states referred to in article 112 . ### a maximum 5 % of the total eafrd contribution to the cap strategic plan as set out in annex ix may be used to finance the actions of technical assistance at the initiative of the member states referred to in article 112 .


### for each member state the minimum amount set out in annex x shall be reserved for contributing to the specific objective ' attract young farmers and facilitate business development ' set out in point of article 6 . on the basis of the analysis of the situation in terms of strengths , weaknesses , opportunities and threats and the identification of the needs that are to be addressed , the amount shall be used for the following types of interventions : ### for each member state the minimum amount set out in annex x shall be reserved for contributing to the specific objective ' attract new farmers and facilitate business development ' set out in point of article 6 . on the basis of the analysis of the situation in terms of strengths , weaknesses , opportunities and threats and the identification of the needs that are to be addressed , the amount shall be used for the following types of interventions :


### a description of the elements related to simplification and reduced administrative burden for final beneficiaries . ### a set of measures related to simplification , funding programme flexibility and reduced administrative burden for final beneficiaries .


### in relation to the specific objective ' attract young farmers and facilitate their business development ' set out in point of article 6 , an overview of the cap strategic plan relevant interventions and specific conditions such as those specified in articles 22 , 27 , 69 and 71 shall be presented . member states shall in particular refer to article 86 when presenting the financial plan in relation to the types of interventions referred to in articles 27 and 69 . the overview shall also explain the interplay with national instruments with a view of improving the consistency between union and national actions in this area ; ### in relation to the specific objective ' attract new farmers and facilitate their business development ' set out in point of article 6 , an overview of the cap strategic plan relevant interventions and specific conditions such as those specified in articles 22 , 27 , 69 and 71 shall be presented . member states shall in particular refer to article 86 when presenting the financial plan in relation to the types of interventions referred to in articles 27 and 69 . the overview shall also explain the interplay with national instruments with a view of improving the consistency between union and national actions in this area ;


### a description of the strategy for the development of digital technologies in agriculture and rural areas and for the use of these technologies to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the cap strategic plan interventions . ### strategies for the development of digital technologies in agriculture and rural areas , smart villages , and for the use of these technologies to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the cap strategic plan interventions .


### the commission shall approve the proposed cap strategic plan provided that the necessary information has been submitted and the commission is satisfied that the plan is compatible with the general principles of union law , the requirements set out in this regulation , the provisions adopted pursuant to it and in regulation [ hzr ] . ### the commission shall approve the proposed cap strategic plan provided that the necessary information has been submitted and the commission is satisfied that the plan is compatible with the general principles of union law , eu financial rules , the requirements set out in this regulation , the provisions adopted pursuant to it and in regulation [ hzr ] .


### the member state or the managing authority may designate one or more intermediate bodies including local authorities , regional development bodies or non - governmental organisations , to carry out the management and implementation of cap strategic plan interventions . ### the member state or the managing authority may designate one or more intermediate bodies including local authorities and organisations , regional development bodies or non - governmental organisations , to carry out the management and implementation of cap strategic plan interventions .


### the contribution of the cap strategic plan to the cap specific objectives , taking into account national and regional needs and potential for development as well as lessons drawn from implementation of the cap in previous programming periods ; ### the contribution of the cap strategic plan to the cap specific objectives , taking into account not only national needs but also regional needs and the need to help the rural areas meet their potential for development , as well as lessons drawn from implementation of the cap in previous programming periods ;


### 21 attracting young farmers : evolution of number of new farmers ### 21 attracting new farmers : evolution of number of new farmers


### 30 generational renewal : number of young farmers setting up a farm with support from the cap ### 30 number of new farmers setting up a farm with support from the cap


### tillage management reducing the risk of soil degradation , including slope consideration ### tillage management preventing soil degradation , including slope consideration , and ensuring soil’s ability to retain water


### minimum land management reflecting site specific conditions to limit erosion ### minimum land management requirements with regard to soil’s ability to retain water reflecting occurrence of draught and site specific conditions


### minimum amounts reserved for the objective ' attract young farmers and facilitate business development ' as referred to in article 86 ### minimum amounts reserved for the objective ' attract new farmers and facilitate business development ' as referred to in article 86


### attract young farmers and facilitate business development ### attract new farmers and facilitate business development


### principle 7 of the european pillar of social rights , proclaimed at gothenburg on 17 november 2017 , provides that workers have the right to be informed in writing at the start of employment about their rights and obligations resulting from the employment relationship , including any probationary period , and that they have the right to access to effective and impartial dispute resolution and , in case of unjustified dismissal , a right to redress , including adequate compensation . principle 5 provides that regardless of the type and duration of the employment relationship , workers have the right to fair and equal treatment regarding working conditions , access to social protection and training , that employment relationships that lead to precarious working conditions is to be prevented , including by prohibiting abuse of atypical contracts , that any probationary period should be of reasonable duration and that the transition towards open - ended forms of employment is to be fostered . ### principle 7 of the european pillar of social rights , proclaimed at gothenburg on 17 november 2017 , provides that workers have the right to be informed in writing at the start of employment about their rights and obligations resulting from the employment relationship , including any probationary period , and that they are entitled to be informed of the reasons for their dismissal and given a reasonable period of notice and that they have the right to access to effective and impartial dispute resolution and , in case of unjustified dismissal , a right to redress , including adequate compensation . principle 5 provides that regardless of the type and duration of the employment relationship , workers have the right to fair and equal treatment regarding working conditions , access to social protection and training , that employment relationships that lead to precarious working conditions is to be prevented , including by prohibiting abuse of atypical contracts , that any probationary period should be of reasonable duration and that the transition towards open - ended forms of employment is to be fostered , while giving employers the necessary flexibility to adapt swiftly to any economic shifts .


### since the adoption of council directive 91 / 533 / eec , labour markets have undergone far - reaching changes due to demographic developments and digitalisation leading to the creation of new forms of employment , which have supported job creation and labour market growth . new forms of employment are often not as regular or stable as traditional employment relationships and lead to reduced predictability for the workers concerned , creating uncertainty as to applicable rights and social protection . in this evolving world of work , there is therefore an increased need for workers to be fully informed about their essential working conditions , which should occur in a written form and in a timely manner . in order adequately to frame the development of new forms of employment , workers in the union should also be provided with a number of new minimum rights aimed at promoting security and predictability in employment relationships while achieving upward convergence across member states and preserving labour market adaptability . __________________ 33 council directive 91 / 533 / ec of 14 october 1991 on an employer ' s obligation to inform employees of the conditions applicable to the contract or employment relationship . ### since the adoption of council directive 91 / 533 / eec , labour markets have undergone far - reaching changes due to demographic developments and digitalisation leading to the creation of new forms of employment , generating , on the one hand , increasing labour market flexibility and , on the other , adaptability to economic shifts , developments , which have supported the emergence of new business models , job creation and labour market growth . new forms of employment are often not as regular or stable as traditional employment relationships and , in certain cases , lead to reduced predictability for the workers concerned , creating uncertainty as to applicable rights and social protection and encouraging unclear or unfair practices , thereby destabilising the labour market . in this evolving world of work , there is therefore an increased need for workers to be fully informed about their essential working conditions , which should occur in a written form and as rapidly as possible . in order adequately to frame the development of these new forms of employment , workers in the union should also be provided with a number of new minimum rights aimed at promoting security and predictability in employment relationships while achieving upward convergence across member states and preserving labour market adaptability . __________________ 33 council directive 91 / 533 / ec of 14 october 1991 on an employer ' s obligation to inform employees of the conditions applicable to the contract or employment relationship .


### minimum requirements relating to information on the essential aspects of the employment relationship and relating to working conditions that apply to every worker should therefore be established at union level in order to guarantee all workers in the union an adequate degree of transparency and predictability as regards their working conditions . ### minimum standards relating to information on the essential aspects of the employment relationship and relating to working conditions that apply to every worker , whatever their employment contract or employment relationship , should therefore be established at union level in order to guarantee all workers in the union the same degree of transparency , security and predictability as regards their working conditions .


### in order to ensure effectiveness of the rights provided by the union law , the personal scope of directive 91 / 533 / eec should be updated . in its case law , the court of justice of the european union has established criteria for determining the status of a worker34 which are appropriate for determining the personal scope of application of this directive . the definition of worker in article 2 is based on these criteria . they ensure a uniform implementation of the personal scope of the directive while leaving it to national authorities and courts to apply it to specific situations . provided that they fulfil those criteria , domestic workers , on - demand workers , intermittent workers , voucher based - workers , platform workers , trainees and apprentices could come within scope of this directive . __________________ 34 judgments of 3 july 1986 , deborah lawrie - blum , case 66 / 85 ; 14 october 2010 , union syndicale solidaires isère , case c - 428 / 09 ; 9 july 2015 , balkaya , case c - 229 / 14 ; 4 december 2014 , fnv kunsten , case c - 413 / 13 ; and 17 november 2016 , ruhrlandklinik , case c - 216 / 15 . ### given that between 2 million and 3 million workers are currently excluded from the scope of directive 91 / 533 / eec , in order to ensure effectiveness of the rights provided by the union law and the indiscriminate implementation thereof , the personal scope of directive 91 / 533 / eec should be updated in its case law , the court of justice of the european union has established criteria for determining the status of a worker34 which are appropriate for determining the personal scope of application of this directive . the definition of worker in article 2 is based on these criteria . they ensure a uniform implementation of the personal scope of the directive while leaving it to national authorities and courts to apply it to specific situations . provided that they fulfil those criteria , domestic workers , on - demand workers , intermittent workers , voucher based - workers , platform workers , trainees and apprentices could come within scope of this directive . __________________ 34 judgments of 3 july 1986 , deborah lawrie - blum , case 66 / 85 ; 14 october 2010 , union syndicale solidaires isère , case c - 428 / 09 ; 9 july 2015 , balkaya , case c - 229 / 14 ; 4 december 2014 , fnv kunsten , case c - 413 / 13 ; and 17 november 2016 , ruhrlandklinik , case c - 216 / 15 .


### information on working time should be consistent with the provisions of directive 2003 / 88 / ec of the european parliament and of the council35 , and include information on breaks , daily rest , weekly rest and the amount of paid leave . __________________ 35 directive 2003 / 88 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 4 november 2003 concerning certain aspects of the organisation of working time . ### information on working time should be consistent with the provisions of directive 2003 / 88 / ec of the european parliament and of the council35 , and include information on breaks , daily rest , weekly rest and the amount of paid leave thereby ensuring protection of the safety and health of workers . __________________ 35 directive 2003 / 88 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 4 november 2003 concerning certain aspects of the organisation of working time .


### if it is not possible to indicate a fixed work schedule due to the nature of the employment , workers should know how their work schedule will be established , including the time slots in which they may be called to work and the minimum advance notice they should receive . ### if it is not possible to indicate a fixed work schedule due to the nature of the employment , workers should be informed how their work schedule will be established , including the time slots in which they may be called to work and the minimum advance notice they should receive .


### in order to help employers to provide timely information , member states should ensure the availability of templates at national level including relevant and sufficiently comprehensive information on the legal framework applicable . these templates may be further developed at sectoral or local level , by national authorities and social partners . ### in order to help employers to provide timely information , member states should ensure the availability of templates at national level including relevant and sufficiently comprehensive information on the legal framework applicable . the european commission should assist member states in producing these templates in order to avoid any discrepancies in content between the various member states . the content of these templates may be determined at sectoral or local level , by national authorities and social partners , provided that no disproportionate or excessive additional administrative burdens are created .


### where employers have the possibility to offer full - time or open - ended labour contracts to workers in non - standard forms of employment , a transition to more secure forms of employment should be promoted . workers should be able to request another more predictable and secure form of employment , where available , and receive a written response from the employer , which takes into account the needs of the employer and of the worker . ### where employers have the possibility to offer full - time or open - ended labour contracts to workers in non - standard forms of employment , a transition to more secure forms of employment should be promoted in line with principle 5 of the european pillar of social rights , proclaimed in gothenburg on 17 november 2017 seeking to encourage a transition to employment of indefinite duration . workers should be able to request another more predictable and secure form of employment , where available , and receive an appropriately substantiated written response from the employer , which takes into account the needs of the employer and of the worker .


### social partners may consider that in specific sectors or situations different provisions are more appropriate , for the pursuit of the purpose of this directive , than the minimum standards set in chapter three of this directive . member states should therefore be able to allow social partners to conclude collective agreements modifying the provisions contained in that chapter , as long as the overall level of protection of workers is not lowered . ### social partners may consider that in specific sectors or situations different provisions are more appropriate , for the pursuit of the purpose of this directive , offering greater protection than the minimum standards set in chapter three of this directive . given the crucial role of the social partners at all levels in promoting and implementing the european social pillar , member states should therefore be able to allow social partners to conclude collective agreements modifying the provisions contained in that chapter , as long as the overall level of non - discriminatory protection of workers protection of workers is not lowered under any circumstances .


### an extensive system of enforcement provisions for the social acquis in the union has been adopted since directive 91 / 533 / eec , notably in the fields of anti - discrimination and equal opportunities , elements of which should be applied to this directive in order to ensure that workers have access to effective and impartial dispute resolution and a right to redress , including adequate compensation , reflecting the principle 7 of the european pillar of social rights . ### an extensive system of enforcement provisions for the social acquis in the union has been adopted since directive 91 / 533 / eec , notably in the fields of anti - discrimination and equal opportunities , elements of which should be applied to this directive in order to ensure that workers , as defined in article 2 of this directive , have access to effective and impartial dispute resolution and a right to redress , including adequate compensation , reflecting the principle 7 of the european pillar of social rights .


### ' reference hours and days ' means time slots in specified days during which work can take place at the request of the employer . ### ' reference hours and days ' means schedules , shifts and any time slots in specified days during which work can take place at the request of the employer ;


### any training entitlement provided by the employer ; ### any right to training provided by the employer if he is obliged to do so by law , under the terms of collective agreements or in accordance with the employer’s general training policy ;


### the information referred to in paragraph 1 and 2 may , where appropriate , be given in the form of a reference to the laws , regulations and administrative or statutory provisions or collective agreements governing those particular points . ### the information referred to in paragraph 1 and 2 shall be clearly given in the form of a reference to the laws , regulations and administrative or statutory provisions or collective agreements governing those particular points and made available or translated in a language that the posted workers are able to understand .


### member states shall develop templates and models for the document referred to in paragraph 1 and put them at the disposal of workers and employers including by making them available on a single official national website and by other suitable means . ### member states shall develop templates or models for the document referred to in paragraph 1 and put them at the disposal of workers and employers including by making them available on a single official national website and by other suitable means . the european commission shall assist member states in producing these templates or models in order to avoid any discrepancies in content between the various member states .


### member states shall develop templates and models for the document referred to in paragraph 1 and put them at the disposal of workers and employers including by making them available on a single official national website and by other suitable means . ### member states after consultation with stakeholders and social partners , shall develop templates and models for the document referred to in paragraph 1 and put them at the disposal of workers and employers including by making them available on a single official national website and by other suitable means .


### member states shall ensure that , where a worker is required to work in a member state or third country other than the member state in which he or she habitually works , the document referred to in article 4 shall be provided before his or her departure and shall include at least the following additional information : ### member states shall ensure that , where a worker is required to work in a member state or third country other than the member state in which he or she habitually works , the document referred to in article 4 shall be provided within a reasonable period before his or her departure and shall include at least the following additional information :


### member states shall ensure that where employers are required by union or national legislation or relevant collective agreements to provide training to workers to carry out the work for which they are employed , such training shall be provided cost - free to the worker . ### member states shall ensure that where employers are required by union or national legislation or relevant collective agreements to provide any training or education to workers to carry out the work for which they are employed , such training or education shall be provided cost - free to the worker .


### these rights and values must continue to be promoted and enforced , shared among the citizens and peoples within the union and be at the heart of europe’s societies , therefore , a new justice , rights and values fund , comprising the rights and values and the justice programmes shall be created in the union budget . at a time where european societies are confronted with extremism , radicalism and divisions , it is more important than ever to promote , strengthen and defend justice , rights and eu values : human rights , respect for human dignity , freedom , democracy , equality , the rule of law . this will have profound and direct implications for political , social , cultural and economic life in the eu . as a part of the new fund , the rights and values programme will bring together the 2014 - 2020 rights , equality and citizenship programme established by regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council10and the europe for citizens programme established by regulation no 390 / 2014 of the council11 . the justice programme will continue to support the development of an integrated european justice area and cross - border cooperation , in continuity with the 2014 - 2020 justice programme established by regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council12 . _________________ 10 regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 17 december 2013 establishing a rights , equality and citizenship programme for the period 2014 to 2020 11 council regulation no 390 / 2014 of 14 april 2014 establishing the ‘ europe for citizens’ programme for the period 2014 - 2020 12 regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 17 december 2013 establishing a rights , equality and citizenship programme for the period 2014 to 2020 . ### these rights and values must continue to be promoted and enforced , shared among the citizens and peoples within the union and be at the heart of europe’s societies . at the same time , a properly working european area of justice and efficient , independent and quality national legal systems , as well as greater mutual trust , are necessary for a flourishing internal market and for upholding the common values of the union . therefore , a new justice , rights and values fund , comprising the rights and values and the justice programmes shall be created in the union budget . at a time where european societies are confronted with extremism , radicalism and divisions , it is more important than ever to promote , strengthen and defend justice , rights and eu values : human rights , respect for human dignity , freedom , democracy , equality , the rule of law and an independent and efficient judiciary . this will have profound and direct implications for political , social , cultural and economic life in the eu , helping it to make a tangible impact on the daily life of its citizens . as a part of the new fund , the rights and values programme will bring together the 2014 - 2020 rights , equality and citizenship programme established by regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council10 and the europe for citizens programme established by regulation no 390 / 2014 of the council11 . the justice programme will continue to support the development of an integrated european justice area and cross - border cooperation , in continuity with the 2014 - 2020 justice programme established by regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council12 .


### the justice , rights and values fund and its two underlying funding programmes will focus primarily on people and entities which contribute to make our common values , rights and rich diversity alive and vibrant . the ultimate objective is to nurture and sustain our rights - based , equal , inclusive and democratic society . that includes a vibrant civil society , encouraging people’s democratic , civic and social participation and to fostering the rich diversity of european society , also based on our common history and memory . article 11 of the eu treaty further specifies that the institutions shall , by appropriate means , give citizens and representative associations the opportunity to make known and publicly exchange their views in all areas of union action . ### the justice , rights and values fund and its two underlying funding programmes will focus primarily on people and entities which contribute to make our common values , rights and rich diversity alive and vibrant . the ultimate objective is to nurture and sustain our rights - and freedoms - based , equal , inclusive and democratic society . that includes stimulating a vibrant civil society , encouraging people’s democratic , civic and social participation , protecting independent media , and fostering the rich diversity of european society , also based on our common history and memory . article 11 of the eu treaty further specifies that the institutions shall , by appropriate means , give citizens and representative associations the opportunity to make known and publicly exchange their views in all areas of union action .


### the treaty on the functioning of the european union provides for the creation of an area of freedom , security and justice , with respect for fundamental rights and the different legal systems and traditions of the member states . to that end , the union may adopt measures to develop judicial cooperation in civil matters and judicial cooperation in criminal matters and to promote and support the action of member states in the field of crime prevention . respect for fundamental rights as well as for common principles and values , such as non - discrimination , gender equality , effective access to justice for all , the rule of law and a well - functioning independent judicial system shall be ensured in the further development of a european area of justice . ### the treaty on the functioning of the european union provides for the creation of an area of freedom , security and justice , with respect for fundamental rights and the different legal systems and traditions of the member states . to that end , the union may adopt measures to develop judicial cooperation in civil matters and criminal matters , accompanied by coordination and cooperation between police , judicial and other competent authorities , and to promote and support the action of member states in the field of crime prevention . the new justice programme will support the further development of a european area of justice based on the union’s values , the rule of law , and mutual recognition and trust , in particular by facilitating access to justice for all and promoting judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters , and the effectiveness and independence of national justice systems .


### financing should remain one of the important tools for the successful implementation of the ambitious goals set by the treaties . they should be attained inter alia by establishing a flexible and effective justice programme which should facilitate planning and implementation of those goals . ### financing is one of the most important tools for the successful implementation of the ambitious goals set by the treaties . they should be attained inter alia by establishing a flexible and effective justice programme which should facilitate planning and implementation of those goals , taking into account which activities bring the highest union added value , using key performance indicators , whenever possible .


### for the gradual establishment of an area of freedom , security and justice , the union is to adopt measures relating to judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters based on the principle of mutual recognition of judgments and judicial decisions , which is a cornerstone of judicial cooperation within the union since the tampere european council of 15 and 16 october 1999 . mutual recognition requires a high level of mutual trust among member states . measures to approximate the laws of the member states in several areas have been adopted to facilitate mutual recognition and foster mutual trust . a well - functioning area of justice , where obstacles in cross - border judicial proceedings and access to justice in cross - border situations are eliminated , is also key to ensure economic growth . ### for the gradual establishment of an area of freedom , security and justice for all , the union is to adopt measures relating to judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters based on the principle of mutual recognition of judgments and judicial decisions , which is a cornerstone of judicial cooperation within the union since the tampere european council of 15 and 16 october 1999 . mutual recognition requires a high level of mutual trust among member states . measures to approximate the laws of the member states in several areas have been adopted to facilitate mutual recognition and foster mutual trust . a well - functioning area of justice , where obstacles in cross - border judicial proceedings and access to justice in cross - border situations are eliminated , is also key to ensure economic growth and further integration .


### respect for the rule of law is essential for a high level of mutual trust in the area of justice and home affairs , in particular for effective judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters which is based on mutual recognition . the rule of law is one of the common values enshrined in article teu 2 , and the principle of effective judicial protection provided for in articles 19 teu and 47 of the charter of fundamental rights is a concrete expression of the rule of law . promoting the rule of law by supporting the efforts to improve the independence , quality and efficiency of national justice systems enhances the mutual trust which is indispensable for judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters . ### respect for the rule of law is essential for a high level of mutual trust in the area of freedom , security and justice and home affairs , in particular for effective judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters which is based on mutual recognition . the rule of law is one of the common values enshrined in article teu 2 , and the principle of effective judicial protection provided for in articles 19 teu and 47 of the charter of fundamental rights is a concrete expression of the rule of law . promoting the rule of law by supporting the efforts to improve the independence , transparency , accountability , quality and efficiency of national justice systems enhances the mutual trust which is indispensable for judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters .


### pursuant to articles 81 and 82 of the treaty on the functioning of the eu , the union shall support the training of the judiciary and judicial staff as a tool to improve judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters based on the principle of mutual recognition of judgments and of judicial decisions . training of justice professionals is an important tool to develop a common understanding of how best to uphold the rule of law . it contributes to the building of the european area of justice by creating a common judicial culture among justice professionals of the member states . it is essential to ensure the correct and coherent application of law in the union and mutual trust between justice professionals in cross - border proceedings . the training activities supported by the programme should be based on sound training needs’ assessments , use state of the art training methodology , include cross - border events gathering justice professionals of different member states , comprise active learning and networking elements and be sustainable . ### pursuant to articles 81 and 82 of the treaty on the functioning of the eu , the union shall support the training of the judiciary and judicial staff as a tool to improve judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters based on the principle of mutual recognition of judgments and of judicial decisions . training of justice professionals is an important tool to develop a common understanding of how best to uphold the rule of law . it contributes to the building of the european area of justice by creating a common judicial culture among justice professionals of the member states . it is essential to ensure the correct , coherent and prompt interpretation and application of law in the union and mutual trust between justice professionals in cross - border proceedings . the training activities supported by the programme should be based on sound training needs’ assessments , use state of the art training methodology and efficient distance communications technology , include cross - border events gathering justice professionals of different member states , comprise active learning and networking elements and be sustainable .


### pursuant to articles 81 and 82 of the treaty on the functioning of the eu , the union shall support the training of the judiciary and judicial staff as a tool to improve judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters based on the principle of mutual recognition of judgments and of judicial decisions . training of justice professionals is an important tool to develop a common understanding of how best to uphold the rule of law . it contributes to the building of the european area of justice by creating a common judicial culture among justice professionals of the member states . it is essential to ensure the correct and coherent application of law in the union and mutual trust between justice professionals in cross - border proceedings . the training activities supported by the programme should be based on sound training needs’ assessments , use state of the art training methodology , include cross - border events gathering justice professionals of different member states , comprise active learning and networking elements and be sustainable . ### pursuant to articles 81 and 82 of the treaty on the functioning of the eu , the union shall support the training of the judiciary and judicial staff as a tool to improve judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters based on the principle of mutual recognition of judgments and of judicial decisions . harmonised training of justice professionals is an important tool to develop a common understanding of how best to uphold the rule of law . it contributes to the building of the european area of justice by creating a common judicial culture among justice professionals of the member states . it is essential to ensure the correct and coherent application of law in the union and mutual trust and understanding between justice professionals in cross - border proceedings . the training activities supported by the programme should be based on sound training needs’ assessments , use state of the art training methodology , include cross - border events gathering justice professionals of different member states , comprise active learning and networking elements and be sustainable .


### measures under the programme should support enhanced mutual recognition of judicial decisions and judgments and the necessary approximation of legislation that will facilitate cooperation between all the relevant authorities , including financial intelligence units , and the judicial protection of individual rights in civil and commercial matters . the programme should also advance the procedural legislation for cross - border cases and greater convergence in civil law that will help to eliminate obstacles to good and efficient functioning judicial and extra - judicial procedures in benefit of all parties in a civil dispute . finally , in order to support the effective enforcement and practical application of the union law on judicial cooperation in civil matters , the programme should support the functioning of the european judicial network in civil and commercial matters established by council decision 2001 / 470 / ec . ### measures under the programme should contribute to greater mutual trust between member state legal systems and support enhanced mutual recognition of judicial decisions and judgments and the necessary approximation of legislation that will facilitate cooperation between all the relevant authorities , including financial intelligence units , and the judicial protection of individual rights in civil and commercial matters . the programme should also advance the procedural legislation for cross - border cases and greater convergence in civil law that will help to eliminate obstacles to good and efficient functioning judicial and extra - judicial procedures in benefit of all parties in a civil dispute . finally , in order to support the harmonised and effective enforcement and practical application of the union law on judicial cooperation in civil matters , the programme should support the functioning of the european judicial network in civil and commercial matters established by council decision 2001 / 470 / ec .


### pursuant to article 67 tfeu , the union should constitute an area of freedom , security and justice with respect for fundamental rights , to which access to justice is instrumental . in order to facilitate effective access to justice , and with a view to foster the mutual trust which is indispensable for the good functioning of the area of freedom , security and justice , it is necessary to extend financial support to activities of other authorities than judicial authorities and legal practitioners , as well as of civil society organisations , which contribute to these objectives . ### pursuant to article 67 tfeu , the union should constitute an area of freedom , security and justice with respect for fundamental rights , to which access to justice is instrumental . in order to facilitate equal and effective access to justice for all , and with a view to foster the mutual trust which is indispensable for the good functioning of the area of freedom , security and justice , it is necessary to extend financial support to activities of other authorities than judicial authorities and legal practitioners , including civil society organisations and academia , which contribute to these objectives .


### pursuant to articles 8 and 10 tfeu , the programme should also support the mainstreaming of equality between women and men and non - discrimination objectives in all its activities . ### pursuant to articles 8 and 10 tfeu , the programme should take a cross - cutting approach to promote gender equality , support gender mainstreaming , equal rights and non - discrimination objectives in all its activities . regular monitoring and evaluation should be carried out to assess the way in which gender equality and non - discrimination are addressed in the programme ' s activities .


### actions covered by this regulation should contribute to the creation of a european area of justice , increasing cross - border cooperation and networking and achieving the correct , coherent and consistent application of union law . funding activities should also contribute to a common understanding of the union’s values , the rule of law , to better knowledge of union law and policies , to sharing know - how and best practices in using judicial cooperation instruments by all concerned stakeholders , as well as to a proliferation of interoperable digital solutions underpinning seamless and efficient cross - border cooperation , and should provide a sound analytical basis to support the development , enforcement and proper implementation of union law and policies . union intervention allows for those actions to be pursued consistently across the union and brings economies of scale . moreover , the union is in a better position than member states to address cross - border situations and to provide a european platform for mutual learning . ### actions covered by this regulation should contribute to the creation of a european area of justice , fostering the independence and efficiency of the legal system , increasing cross - border cooperation and networking , underpinning mutual trust between the member state judiciaries and achieving the correct , coherent , consistent and prompt application of union law . funding activities should also contribute to a common understanding of the union’s values , the rule of law , to better knowledge of union law and policies , to sharing know - how and best practices in using judicial cooperation instruments by all concerned stakeholders , as well as to a proliferation of interoperable digital solutions underpinning seamless and efficient cross - border cooperation , and should provide a sound analytical basis to support the development , interpretation , enforcement and proper implementation of union law and policies . union intervention allows for those actions to be pursued consistently across the union and brings economies of scale . moreover , the union is in a better position than member states to address cross - border situations and to provide a european platform for mutual learning . the regulation complies with the proportionality principle in that it does not go beyond the minimum required in order to achieve the stated objective at european level .


### actions covered by this regulation should contribute to the creation of a european area of justice , increasing cross - border cooperation and networking and achieving the correct , coherent and consistent application of union law . funding activities should also contribute to a common understanding of the union’s values , the rule of law , to better knowledge of union law and policies , to sharing know - how and best practices in using judicial cooperation instruments by all concerned stakeholders , as well as to a proliferation of interoperable digital solutions underpinning seamless and efficient cross - border cooperation , and should provide a sound analytical basis to support the development , enforcement and proper implementation of union law and policies . union intervention allows for those actions to be pursued consistently across the union and brings economies of scale . moreover , the union is in a better position than member states to address cross - border situations and to provide a european platform for mutual learning . ### actions covered by this regulation should contribute to the creation of a european area of justice , increasing cross - border cooperation and networking and achieving the correct , coherent and consistent application of union law . funding activities should also contribute to a common understanding of the union’s values , the rule of law , to better knowledge of union law and policies , to sharing know - how and best practices in using judicial cooperation instruments by all concerned stakeholders , as well as to promote interoperable digital solutions underpinning seamless and efficient cross - border cooperation , and should provide a sound analytical basis to support the development , enforcement and proper implementation of union law and policies . union financial intervention allows for those actions to be pursued consistently across the union and brings economies of scale . moreover , the union is in a better position than member states to address cross - border situations and to provide a european platform for mutual learning .


### in accordance with the financial regulation , regulation no 883 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council15 , council regulation no 2988 / 9516 council regulation no 2185 / 9617 and council regulation 2017 / 193918 the financial interests of the union are to be protected through proportionate measures , including the prevention , detection , correction and investigation of irregularities and fraud , the recovery of funds lost , wrongly paid or incorrectly used and , where appropriate , the imposition of administrative sanctions . in particular , in accordance with regulation no 883 / 2013 and regulation no 2185 / 96 the european anti - fraud office may carry out administrative investigations , including on - the - spot checks and inspections , with a view to establishing whether there has been fraud , corruption or any other illegal activity affecting the financial interests of the union . in accordance with regulation 2017 / 1939 , the european public prosecutor’s office may investigate and prosecute fraud and other criminal offences affecting the financial interests of the union as provided for in directive 2017 / 1371 of the european parliament and of the council19 in accordance with the financial regulation , any person or entity receiving union funds is to fully cooperate in the protection of the union’s financial interests , to grant the necessary rights and access to the commission , olaf , the eppo and the european court of auditors and to ensure that any third parties involved in the implementation of union funds grant equivalent rights . _________________ 15 regulation no 883 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 11 september 2013 concerning investigations conducted by the european anti - fraud office and repealing regulation no 1073 / 1999 of the european parliament and of the council and council regulation no 1074 / 1999 , no 2988 / 95 of 18 december 1995 on the protection of the european communities financial interests . 17 council regulation no 2185 / 96 of 11 november 1996 concerning on - the - spot checks and inspections carried out by the commission in order to protect the european communities’ financial interests against fraud and other irregularities . 18 council regulation 2017 / 1939 of 12 october 2017 implementing enhanced cooperation on the establishment of the european public prosecutor’s office . 19 directive 2017 / 1371 of the european parliament and of the council of 5 july 2017 on the fight against fraud to the union’s financial interests by means of criminal law . ### in accordance with the financial regulation , regulation no 883 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council15 , council regulation no 2988 / 9516 council regulation no 2185 / 9617 and council regulation 2017 / 193918 the financial interests of the union are to be protected through proportionate measures , including complete transparency of the programme financing and selection procedures , prevention , detection , correction and investigation of irregularities and fraud , the recovery of funds lost , wrongly paid or incorrectly used and , where appropriate , the imposition of administrative sanctions . in particular , in accordance with regulation no 883 / 2013 and regulation no 2185 / 96 the european anti - fraud office should carry out administrative investigations , including on - the - spot checks and inspections , with a view to establishing whether there has been fraud , corruption or any other illegal activity affecting the financial interests of the union . in accordance with regulation 2017 / 1939 , the european public prosecutor’s office should investigate and prosecute fraud and other criminal offences affecting the financial interests of the union as provided for in directive 2017 / 1371 of the european parliament and of the council19 in accordance with the financial regulation , any person or entity receiving union funds is to fully cooperate in the protection of the union’s financial interests , to grant the necessary rights and access to the commission , olaf , the eppo and the european court of auditors and to ensure that any third parties involved in the implementation of union funds grant equivalent rights . _________________ 15 regulation no 883 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 11 september 2013 concerning investigations conducted by the european anti - fraud office and repealing regulation no 1073 / 1999 of the european parliament and of the council and council regulation no 1074 / 1999 , no 2988 / 95 of 18 december 1995 on the protection of the european communities financial interests . 17 council regulation no 2185 / 96 of 11 november 1996 concerning on - the - spot checks and inspections carried out by the commission in order to protect the european communities’ financial interests against fraud and other irregularities . 18 council regulation 2017 / 1939 of 12 october 2017 implementing enhanced cooperation on the establishment of the european public prosecutor’s office . 19 directive 2017 / 1371 of the european parliament and of the council of 5 july 2017 on the fight against fraud to the union’s financial interests by means of criminal law .


### it lays down the objectives of the programme , the budget for the period 2021 – 2027 , the forms of union funding and the rules for providing such funding . ### it lays down the objectives of the programme , the budget for the period 1 january 2021 – 31 december 2027 , the forms of union funding and the rules for providing such funding .


### the programme has the general objective of contributing to the further development of a european area of justice based on the rule of law , on mutual recognition and mutual trust ; ### the programme has the general objective of contributing to the further development of a european area of justice based on the rule of law , on the independence and efficiency of the legal system , on cross - border cooperation and on mutual recognition and mutual trust ;


### the financial envelope for the implementation of the programme for the period 2021 &#8211 ; 2027 shall be eur [ 305 000 000 ] in current prices . ### within the meaning of [ reference to be updated as appropriate according to the new inter - institutional agreement : point 17 of the interinstitutional agreement of 2 december 2013 between the european parliament , the council and the commission on budgetary discipline , on cooperation in budgetary matters and on sound financial management ] , the financial envelope for the implementation of the programme for the period 2021 &#8211 ; 2027 , representing the prime reference for the budgetary authority during the annual budgetary procedure , shall be eur 316 000 000 in 2018 prices .


### actions contributing to the achievement of a specific objective specified in article 3 may receive funding under this regulation . in particular , activities listed in annex i shall be eligible for funding . ### actions contributing to the achievement of a specific objective specified in article 3 may receive funding under this regulation , in particular : 1 . awareness raising , dissemination of information to improve the knowledge of union policies and of union law including substantive and procedural law , of judicial cooperation instruments , of the relevant case - law of the court of justice of the european union , and of comparative law and of european and international standards ; 2 . mutual learning through exchange of good practices among stakeholders to improve knowledge and mutual understanding of the civil and criminal law and the legal and judicial systems of the member states , including the rule of law , and enhancing mutual trust ; 3 . analytical and monitoring activities1a to improve the knowledge and understanding of potential obstacles to the smooth functioning of a european area of justice and to improve the implementation of union law and policies in the member states ; 4 . training relevant stakeholders to improve the knowledge of union policies and union law including inter alia substantive and procedural law , the use of eu judicial cooperation instruments , the relevant case - law of the court of justice of the european union , legal language and of comparative law . 5 . information and communication technology tools development and maintenance to improve the efficiency of judicial systems and their cooperation by means of information and communication technology , including the cross - border interoperability of systems and applications . 6 . developing capacity of key european level networks and european judicial networks , including networks established by union law to ensure the effective application and enforcement of union law , to promote and further develop union law , policy goals and strategies in the areas of the programme , as well as supporting civil society organisations active in the areas covered by the programme . 7 . enhancing knowledge of the programme and dissemination and transferability of its results and fostering citizen outreach . _________________ 1a these activities include for instance the collection of data and statistics ; the development of common methodologies and , where appropriate , indicators or benchmarks ; studies , researches , analyses and surveys ; evaluations ; impact assessment ; the elaboration and publication of guides , reports and educational material .


### an operating grant may be awarded without a call for proposals to the european judicial training network to cover expenditure associated with its permanent work programme . ### an operating grant shall be awarded without a call for proposals to the european judicial training network to cover expenditure associated with its permanent work programme .


### indicators to report on progress of the programme towards the achievement of the specific objectives set out in article 3 are set out in annex ii . ### indicators to report on progress of the programme towards the achievement of the specific objectives set out in article 3 are set out in the annex .


### the performance reporting system shall ensure that data for monitoring programme implementation and results are collected efficiently , effectively , and in a timely manner . to that end , proportionate reporting requirements shall be imposed on recipients of union funds and member states . ### the performance reporting system shall ensure that correct data for monitoring programme implementation and results are collected efficiently , effectively , and in an accurate and timely manner . to that end , proportionate reporting requirements shall be imposed on recipients of union funds and member states .


### the recipients of union funding shall acknowledge the origin and ensure the visibility of the union funding by providing coherent , effective and proportionate targeted information to multiple audiences , including the media and the public . ### the recipients of union funding shall acknowledge the origin and ensure the visibility of the union funding by providing coherent , effective and proportionate targeted information to multiple audiences , including the media and the public , thereby showing the union added value and aiding the data gathering efforts of the commission in order to enhance budgetary transparency .


### enhancing knowledge of the programme and dissemination and transferability of its results and fostering citizen outreach , including by setting up and supporting programme desks / national contact network . ### enhancing knowledge of the programme and dissemination and transferability of its results and fostering citizen outreach .


### both consumers and undertakings should be safeguarded from discrimination for reasons related to their nationality , place of residence or place of establishment when acting as customers for the purposes of this regulation . however , that protection should not extend to customers purchasing a good or a service for resale , because it would affect widely used distribution schemes between undertakings in a business to business context , such as selective and exclusive distribution , which generally allow for manufacturers to select their retailers , subject to compliance with the rules on competition . ### consumers should be safeguarded from discrimination for reasons related to their nationality and place of residence when acting as customers for the purposes of this regulation .


### in a number of specific situations , any differences in the treatment of customers through the application of general conditions of access , including outright refusals to sell goods or to provide services , for reasons related to the customers ' nationality , place of residence or place of establishment cannot be objectively justified . in those situations , all such discrimination should be prohibited and customers should consequently be entitled , under the specific conditions laid down in this regulation , to engage in commercial transactions under the same conditions as a local customer and have full and equal access to any of the different goods or services offered irrespective of their nationality , place of residence or place of establishment . where necessary , traders should therefore take measures to ensure compliance with that prohibition of discrimination if otherwise the customers concerned would be precluded from having such full and equal access . however , the prohibition applicable in those situations should not be understood as precluding traders from directing their activities at different member states or certain groups of customers with targeted offers and differing terms and conditions , including through the setting - up of country - specific online interfaces . ### in a number of specific situations , any differences in the treatment of customers through the application of general conditions of access , including outright refusals to sell goods or to provide services , for reasons related to the customers ' nationality , place of residence or place of establishment cannot be objectively justified . in those situations , all such discrimination should be prohibited and customers should consequently be entitled , under the specific conditions laid down in this regulation , to engage in commercial transactions under the same conditions as a local customer and have full and equal access to any of the different goods or services offered irrespective of their nationality , place of residence or place of establishment . where necessary , traders should therefore take measures to ensure compliance with that prohibition of discrimination if otherwise the customers concerned would be precluded from having such full and equal access . however , the prohibition applicable in those situations should not be understood as precluding traders from directing their activities at different member states or certain groups of customers with targeted offers and differing terms and conditions , including through the setting - up of country - specific online interfaces . should different conditions be applied to services or goods for objective reasons , however , this will not constitute unlawful discrimination as defined in article 20 and in recital 95 of directive 2006 / 123 / ec .


### the first of those situations is where the trader sells goods and there is no cross - border delivery of those goods by or on behalf of the trader to the member state where the customer resides . in that situation the customer should be able to purchase goods , under exactly the same conditions , including price and conditions relating to the delivery of the goods , as similar customers who are residents of the member state of the trader . that may mean that a foreign customer will have to pick up the good in that member state , or in a different member state to which the trader delivers . in this situation , there is no need to register for value added tax in the member state of the customer , nor arrange for the cross - border delivery of goods . ### the first of those situations is where the trader sells goods and there is no cross - border delivery of those goods by or on behalf of the trader to the member state where the customer resides . in that situation , provided that a contract is concluded between the supplier and the customer , the customer should be able to purchase goods , under exactly the same conditions , including conditions relating to the delivery of the goods , as similar customers who are residents of the member state of the trader . that may mean that a foreign customer will have to pick up the good in that member state , or in a different member state to which the trader delivers . in this situation , there is no need to register for value added tax in the member state of the customer , nor arrange for the cross - border delivery of goods . the supplier must not be compelled to deliver the goods .


### this regulation seeks to contribute to the proper functioning of the internal market by preventing discrimination based , directly or indirectly , on the nationality , place of residence or place of establishment of customers . ### this regulation seeks to contribute to the proper functioning of the internal market by preventing discrimination based , directly or indirectly , on the nationality , place of residence or place of establishment of customers . should different conditions be applied to services or goods for objective reasons , however , this will not constitute unlawful discrimination as defined in article 20 and recital 95 of directive 2006 / 123 / ec .


### ‘ general conditions of access ' means all terms , conditions and other information , including sale prices , regulating the access of customers to goods or services offered for sale by a trader , which are set , applied and made available to the public at large by or on behalf of the trader and which apply in the absence of an individually negotiated agreement between the trader and the customer ; ### ‘ general conditions of access’ means all terms , conditions and other information regulating the access of customers to goods or services offered for sale by a trader , which are set , applied and made available to the public at large by or on behalf of the trader and which apply in the absence of an individually negotiated agreement between the trader and the customer ;


### where a trader blocks or limits access of customers to an online interface or redirects customers to a different version of the online interface in compliance with paragraph 4 , the trader shall provide a clear justification . that justification shall be given in the language of the online interface that the customer originally sought to access . ### where a trader blocks or limits access of customers to an online interface or redirects customers to a different version of the online interface in compliance with paragraph 3 , the trader shall provide a clear justification . the justification to be provided to the consumer shall be given in the language of the online interface that the customer originally sought to access .


### traders shall not apply different general conditions of access to their goods or services , for reasons related to the nationality , place of residence or place of establishment of the customer , in the following situations : ### in the cases defined in paragraph 1 - of this article 4 , traders shall not apply different general conditions of access to their goods or services , for reasons related to the nationality , place of residence or place of establishment of the customer . should different conditions be applied to services or goods for objective reasons , however , this will not constitute unlawful discrimination as defined in article 20 and recital 95 of directive 2006 / 123 / ec . this regulation may not restrict the entrepreneurial freedom and freedom of contract enshrined in article 16 of the charter of fundamental rights of the european union . providers ' freedom of contract may not become a contractual obligation , including an obligation to deliver , vis - &#224 ; - vis consumers . this also applies to the cases defined in article 4 to . article 6 of regulation no 593 / 2008 of the european parliament and of the council of 17 june 2008 on the law applicable to contractual obligations governs consumer contracts . pursuant to that article , a contract which a consumer has concluded with a trader is subject to the law of the state in which the consumer has his or her normal place of residence , provided that the trader , by any means , directs a professional or commercial activity to that country . in the cases defined in article 4 to , the provider does not direct his activity to the consumer ' s member state . in such cases the rome i regulation stipulates that the contract is not subject to the law of the consumer ' s state of residence . the principle of freedom of choice applies here . the same applies to jurisdiction , which is governed by regulation no 1215 / 2012 .


### further to a dialogue with the requesting member state , including in the context of the european semester , the commission should analyse the request , taking into account the principles of transparency , equal treatment and sound financial management and determine the support to be provided based on urgency , breadth and depth of the problems as identified , support needs in respect of the policy areas envisaged , analysis of socioeconomic indicators , and the general administrative capacity of the member state . the commission should also , in close cooperation with the member state concerned , identify the priority areas , the scope of the support measures to be provided and the global financial contribution for such support , taking into account the existing actions and measures financed by union funds or other union programmes . ### further to a dialogue with the requesting member state , including in the context of the european semester , the commission should analyse the request , taking into account the principles of transparency , equal treatment and sound financial management and determine the support to be provided based on urgency , breadth and depth of the problems as identified , support needs in respect of the policy areas envisaged , analysis of socioeconomic indicators , and the general administrative capacity of the member state . the commission should agree with the member state concerned on the priority areas , the particular objectives for that member state based on the objectives set out in this regulation , a timeline , the scope of the support measures to be provided and the estimated global financial contribution for such support to be specified in a support plan , which should be made public . in addition , the existing actions and measures financed by union funds or other union programmes should be taken into account .