### reflecting the important contribution that research and innovation should make to address challenges in food , agriculture , rural development and the bioeconomy , and to seize the corresponding research and innovation opportunities in close synergy with common agricultural policy , relevant actions under the specific programme will be supported with eur 10 billion for the cluster ' food and natural resources ' for the period 2021 - 2027 . ### reflecting the important contribution that research and innovation should make to address challenges in food , agriculture , fisheries and aquaculture , rural development and the bioeconomy , and to seize the corresponding research and innovation opportunities in close synergy with common agricultural policy and common fisheries policy , relevant actions under the specific programme will be supported with eur 16 billion for the cluster ‘ food , natural resources , seas and oceans’ for the period 2021 - 2027 .


### clusters will develop and apply digital , key enabling and emerging technologies as part of a common strategy to promote the eu ' s industrial leadership . where appropriate this will use eu space - enabled data and services . ### clusters will support knowledge creation in all its stages of development , including early - stage basic and applied research activities . clusters will also develop and apply digital , key enabling and emerging technologies as part of a common strategy to promote the eu ' s industrial leadership . where appropriate this will use eu space - enabled data and services .


### –blue value - chains , the multiple - use of marine space and growth of the renewable energy sector from seas and oceans , including sustainable micro - and macro - algae ; ### –blue value - chains , the multiple - use of aquatic space and growth of the renewable energy sector from seas , oceans and fresh waters , including sustainable micro - and macro - algae ; modern aquatic production systems on land offering tools to environmentally neutral biomass production ;


### the eu aims to be world leader in affordable , secure and sustainable energy technologies improving its competitiveness in global value chains and its position in growth markets . diverse climatic , geographical , environmental and socio - economic conditions in the eu as well as the need to ensure energy security and access to raw materials , dictate a broad portfolio of energy solutions , including of non - technical nature . as regards renewable energy technologies , costs need to decrease further , performance must improve , integration into the energy system must be improved and breakthrough technologies need to be developed . as regards fossil fuels , decarbonising their usage will be essential to meet the climate objectives . ### the eu aims to be world leader in affordable , secure and sustainable low carbon energy technologies improving its competitiveness in global value chains and its position in growth markets . diverse climatic , geographical , environmental and socio - economic conditions in the eu as well as the need to ensure energy security , the existing infrastructure and access to raw materials , dictate a broad portfolio of energy solutions , including of non - technical nature . as regards renewable energy technologies , costs need to decrease further , performance must improve , integration into the energy system must be improved and breakthrough technologies need to be developed and implemented . as regards fossil fuels , gradually decarbonising their usage , according to their respective carbon emissions , will be essential to meet the climate objectives .


### –electrification of all transport modes including new technologies for vehicle / vessel / aircraft powertrains , fast charging / refuelling , energy harvesting and user - friendly and accessible interfaces with the charging infrastructure , ensuring interoperability and seamless services provision ; development and deployment of competitive , safe , high - performing and sustainable batteries for low and zero - emission vehicles ; ### –electrification of all transport modes including new technologies for vehicle / vessel / aircraft powertrains , fast charging / refuelling , energy harvesting and user - friendly and accessible interfaces with the fuelling and charging infrastructure , ensuring interoperability and seamless services provision ; development and deployment of competitive , safe , high - performing and sustainable batteries for low and zero - emission vehicles ;


### under the ' global challenges and industrial competitiveness ' pillar , building on experience in horizon 2020 , the social sciences and the humanities will be fully integrated across all clusters , including specific and dedicated activities . likewise , activities involving marine and maritime research and innovation will be implemented in a strategic and integrated manner in line with the eu integrated maritime policy , the common fisheries policy policies and international commitments . ### under the ' global challenges and industrial competitiveness ' pillar , building on experience in horizon 2020 , the social sciences and the humanities will be fully integrated across all clusters , including specific and dedicated activities . the link between environment and innovation shall be emphasised , with particular attention to nature - based solutions which provide both economically and environmentally smart solutions to address challenges such as climate change , scarcity of raw materials , pollution and antimicrobial resistance . likewise , activities involving innovation , research and development on marine ecosystems , fishery resources and maritime sector with links between biodiversity preservation and benefits to human health and economic well - being shall be implemented in a strategic and integrated manner in line with the eu integrated maritime policy , the common fisheries policy policies and international commitments .


### the scientific council shall act exclusively in the interest of achieving the erc , according to the principles set out in article 6 . it shall act with integrity and probity and carry out its work efficiently and with the greatest possible transparency . ### the scientific council shall act exclusively in the interest of achieving the erc’s goals , according to the principles set out in article 6 . it shall act with integrity and probity and carry out its work efficiently and with the greatest possible transparency , maximising erc’s contribution to achieving the eu r&i policy objectives and horizon europe’s goals in particular .


### activities under this cluster contribute in particular to the goals of the energy union , as well as to those of the digital single market , the jobs , growth and investment agenda , the strengthening of the eu as a global actor , the new eu industrial policy strategy , the circular economy , the raw materials initiative , the security union and the urban agenda , as well as the common agricultural policy of the eu as well as eu legal provisions to reduce noise and air pollution . ### activities under this cluster contribute in particular to the goals of the energy union , as well as to those of the digital single market , the jobs , growth and investment agenda , the strengthening of the eu as a global actor , the new eu industrial policy strategy , the circular economy , the raw materials initiative , the security union and the urban agenda , as well as the common agricultural policy of the eu as well as eu legal provisions to reduce noise and air pollution and help member states to achieve the national emission reduction targets .


### –eic challenges , i . e . inducement prizes , to help develop novel solutions to global challenges , bring in new actors and develop new communities . eic recognition prizes will include icapital , the social innovation inducement prize , and the women innovators ' prize . 29 the design of its prizes will be linked to eic to other parts of the framework programme , including missions and other funding bodies . opportunities for cooperation with organisations will be explored . __________________ 29 the eic prizes will take over the management of prizes launched under horizon 2020 and provide for the design and implementation of new inducement prizes and recognition awards . ### –eic challenges , i . e . inducement prizes , to help develop new breakthrough innovations , bring in new actors and develop new communities . eic recognition prizes will include icapital , the social innovation inducement prize , and the women innovators ' prize . 29 the design and implementation of these prizes will linked with other parts of the programme , including missions and the eit to ensure complementarity and avoid duplications . opportunities for cooperation with organisations will be explored . __________________ 29 the eic prizes will take over the management of prizes awarded by the commission launched under horizon 2020 and provide for the design and implementation of new inducement prizes and recognition awards .


### reinforcing and spreading excellence ; ### reinforcing , widening and extending the union ' s scientific and technological base ;


### –twinning , to significantly strengthen a university or research organisation from an eligible country in a defined field , by linking it with internationally - leading research institutions from other member states or associated countries . ### –twinning , to significantly strengthen a university or research organisation from an eligible country in a defined field , in all stages of research , by linking it with internationally - leading research institutions from other member states or associated countries . applicants need to clearly show that projects are linked with national and / or regional strategies to be able to apply for funding under this broad line .


### although the eu remains the largest producer of scientific publications in the world , it is essentially a ' mass producer ' of knowledge with , relative to its size , comparatively few centres of excellence that standout at the world level and with large areas of average and poor performance . compared with the us and now china to some degree , the eu still tends to follow a ' distributed excellence model ' in which resources are spread across a larger number of researchers and research institutions another challenge is that in many eu countries the public sector still does not offer sufficiently attractive conditions for the best researchers . these factors compound europe ' s relative unattractiveness in the global competition for scientific talent . ### the eu remains the largest producer of scientific publications in the world . compared with the us and now china to some degree , the eu follows a ' distributed excellence model ' in which resources are spread across a larger number of researchers and research institutions another challenge is that in many eu countries the public sector still does not offer sufficiently attractive conditions for the best researchers . these factors compound europe ' s relative unattractiveness in the global competition for scientific talent .


### –maternal , paternal , infant and child health as well as the role of parents ; ### –maternal , paternal , infant and child health , including child and maternal survival , as well as the role of parents ;


### past framework programmes have made a significant contribution towards the more efficient and effective use of national infrastructures as well as developed with the european strategy forum on research infrastructures a coherent and strategy - led approach to policy making on pan - european research infrastructures . this strategic approach has generated clear advantages , including reducing duplication of effort with more efficient overall use of resources , as well as standardising processes and procedures . ### past framework programmes have made a significant contribution towards the more efficient and effective use of national infrastructures and towards the removal of barriers for use by all areas of european research through trans - national access , as well as developed with the european strategy forum on research infrastructures a coherent and strategy - led approach to policy making on pan - european research infrastructures . this strategic approach has generated clear advantages , including reducing duplication of effort with more efficient overall use of resources , as well as standardising and harmonising processes and procedures .


### the types of financing and the methods of implementation under this decision shall be chosen on the basis of their ability to achieve the specific objectives of the actions and to deliver results , taking into account , in particular , the costs of controls , the administrative burden , and the expected risk of non - compliance . for grants , this shall include consideration of the use of lump sums , flat rates and scales of unit costs . ### grants will be the main type of financing under this decision . other types of financing shall be chosen on the basis of their ability to achieve the specific objectives of the actions and to deliver results , taking into account , in particular , the costs of controls , the administrative burden , and the expected risk of non - compliance . for grants , this shall include consideration of the use of lump sums , flat rates and scales of unit costs .


### the expected growth of variable electricity production and shift towards more electric heating , cooling and transport dictates the need for new approaches to manage energy grids . next to decarbonisation , the goal is to ensure energy affordability , security and stability of supply , achieved through investments in innovative network infrastructure technologies and innovative system management . energy storage in different forms will play a key role in providing services to the grid , also improving and reinforcing network capacities . exploiting synergies between different networks and actors will be crucial for enabling the smart , integrated operation of the relevant infrastructures . ### the expected growth of variable electricity production and shift towards more decentralised production , electric heating , cooling and transport dictates the need for new approaches to manage energy grids . next to decarbonisation , the goal is to ensure energy affordability , security and stability of supply , achieved through investments in innovative network infrastructure technologies and innovative system management . energy storage in different forms will play a key role in providing services to the grid , also improving and reinforcing network capacities . exploiting synergies between different networks and actors will be crucial for enabling the smart , integrated operation of the relevant infrastructures .


### health research and innovation research and innovation have played a significant part in this achievement but also in improving productivity and quality in the health and care industry . however , the eu continues to face novel , newly emerging or persisting challenges that are threatening its citizens and public health , the sustainability of its health care and social protection systems , as well as the competitiveness of its health and care industry . major health challenges in the eu include : the lack of effective health promotion and disease prevention ; the rise of non - communicable diseases ; the spread of antimicrobial drug resistance and the emergence of infectious epidemics ; increased environmental pollution ; the persistence of health inequalities among and within countries affecting disproportionally people that are disadvantaged or in vulnerable stages of life ; the detection , understanding , control , prevention and mitigation of health risks in a rapidly changing social , urban and natural environment ; the increasing costs for european health care systems and the progressive introduction of personalised medicine approaches and digitalisation in health and care ; and the increasing pressure on the european health and care industry to remain competitive in and by developing health innovation vis - a - vis new and emerging global players . ### health research and innovation research and innovation have played a significant part in this achievement but also in improving productivity and quality in the health and care industry . however , the eu continues to face novel , newly emerging or persisting challenges that are threatening its citizens and public health , the sustainability of its health care and social protection systems , as well as the competitiveness of its health and care industry . major health challenges in the eu include : the lack of effective health promotion and disease prevention ; the rise of non - communicable diseases ; the spread of antimicrobial drug resistance and the emergence of infectious epidemics ; increased environmental pollution ; the persistence of health inequalities among and within countries affecting disproportionally people that are disadvantaged or in vulnerable stages of life ; the detection , understanding , control , prevention and mitigation of health risks in a rapidly changing social , urban and natural environment ; the increasing costs for european health care systems and the progressive introduction of personalised medicine approaches including the relevant research and digitalisation in health and care ; and the increasing pressure on the european health and care industry to remain competitive in and by developing health innovation vis - a - vis new and emerging global players .


### reducing disparities in research and innovation performance by sharing knowledge and expertise across the eu will help countries and regions that are lagging behind in terms of research and innovation performance , including the eu outermost regions , to attain a competitive position in the global value chains . activities may also be established to foster brain circulation right across era and better exploitation of existing research infrastructures in the targeted countries through mobility of researchers and innovators . ### reducing disparities in research and innovation performance by balancing participation of countries , sharing knowledge and expertise across the eu can only be attained by introducing horizontal measures across the framework programme translated into a political target . those activities will help countries and regions that are lagging behind in terms of research and innovation performance to attain a competitive position in the global value chains . activities may also be established to foster brain circulation right across era and better exploitation of existing research infrastructures , especially those financed from esif , in the targeted countries through mobility of researchers and innovators .


### for innovations with high technological risks the support will always include a grant component covering the innovation activities . where the various risks are reduced , the relative importance of the reimbursable advance component is expected to increase . ### for innovations with high technological risks the support will always include a grant component covering the innovation activities , which may be performed in collaboration with public research organisations as partners or through subcontracting . where the various risks are reduced , the relative importance of the reimbursable advance component is expected to increase .


### the overall strategy for the eic component under pillar iii ' open innovation ' ; ### the overall strategy for the eic component under pillar iii ' innovative europe ' ;


### identify in cooperation with relevant commission services possible regulatory barriers faced by entrepreneurs , in particular those awarded support under the eic component ; ### identify in cooperation with relevant commission services and the eit possible regulatory barriers faced by entrepreneurs , in particular those awarded support under the eic component ;


### reflecting the important contribution that research and innovation should make to address challenges in food , agriculture , rural development and the bioeconomy , and to seize the corresponding research and innovation opportunities in close synergy with common agricultural policy , relevant actions under the specific programme will be supported with eur 10 billion for the cluster ' food and natural resources ' for the period 2021 - 2027 . ### reflecting the important contribution that research and innovation should make to address challenges in food , agriculture , fisheries and aquaculture , rural development and the bioeconomy , and to seize the corresponding research and innovation opportunities in close synergy with common agricultural policy and common fisheries policy , relevant actions under the specific programme will be supported with eur 16 billion for the cluster ‘ food , natural resources , seas and oceans’ for the period 2021 - 2027 .


### the establishment , operation and long - term sustainability of research infrastructures identified by esfri is essential for the eu to ensure a leading position in frontier research , the creation and use of knowledge and the competitiveness of its industries . ### the establishment , operation and long - term sustainability of research infrastructures , including the ones identified by esfri , is essential for the eu to ensure a leading position in frontier research , the creation and use of knowledge and the competitiveness of its industries .


### –promote and co - fund joint innovation programmes managed by authorities in charge of public national , regional or local innovation policies and programmes , to which private entities supporting innovation and innovators may be associated . such demand - driven joint programmes may target , among others , early stage and feasibility study support , academia - enterprise cooperation , support to high - tech smes ' collaborative research , technology and knowledge transfer , internationalisation of smes , market analysis and development , digitalisation of low - tech smes , financial instruments for close to market innovations activities or market deployment , social innovation . they may also include joint public procurement initiatives , enabling innovations to be commercialised in the public sector , in particular in support of the development of new policy . this could be particularly effective to stimulate innovation in public service areas and to provide market opportunities to european innovators . ### – - promote and co - fund joint innovation programmes managed by authorities in charge of public national , regional or local innovation policies and programmes , to which private entities supporting innovation and innovators may should be associated . such demand and supply driven joint programmes may target , among others , early stage and feasibility study support , academia - enterprise cooperation , support to high - tech smes ' collaborative research , technology and knowledge transfer , internationalisation of smes , market analysis and development , digitalisation of low tech smes , financial instruments for close to market innovations activities or market deployment , social innovation . they may also include joint public procurement initiatives , enabling innovations to be commercialised in the public sector , in particular in support of the development of new policy . when managed at the local level , these programmes should allow transnational partnerships and should be coherent with the smart specialization strategies of the involved regions . this could be particularly effective to stimulate innovation in public service areas , to provide market opportunities to european innovators and promote synergies between the programme and the erdf .


### the pathfinder will be open to all types of innovators , from individuals to universities , research organisations and companies , in particular startups and smes , and from single beneficiaries to multi - disciplinary consortia . in the case of single beneficiary projects , larger companies will not be permitted . the pathfinder will be implemented in close coordination with other parts of horizon europe , in particular with the european research council , the marie skłodowska - curie actions , and the knowledge and innovation communities of the european institute of innovation and technology activities . it will also be implemented in close coordination with member states programmes and activities . ### the pathfinder will be open to all types of high - potential innovators , from individuals to universities , research and technology organisations and companies , in particular startups and smes , and from single beneficiaries to multi - disciplinary consortia . in the case of single beneficiary projects , larger companies will not be permitted . in order to ensure synergies and avoid duplications , the pathfinder will be implemented in close coordination with other parts of horizon europe , in particular with the european research council , the marie skłodowska - curie actions , and the european institute of innovation and technology activities . special attention should be given to scaling up start - ups generated by horizon europe . it will also be implemented in close coordination with member states programmes and activities .


### –industrial co2 valorisation ; ### –efficient industrial processes to capture co2 , including co2 valorisation , when it is proved environmentally safe and offers substantial climate benefits ;


### greater impact will be obtained through aligning actions with other nations and regions of the world within an international cooperation effort of unprecedented scale . based on mutual benefit , partners from across the world will be invited to join eu efforts as an integral part of initiatives in support of eu action for sustainability , reinforced research and innovation excellence , and competitiveness . ### greater impact will be obtained through aligning actions with other nations and regions of the world , especially low and middle income countries , within an international cooperation effort of unprecedented scale , to develop a shared future based on sustainable development bringing together knowledge capacity and infrastructure to support actions on both sides . based on mutual benefit , partners from across the world , including research and education partners , industry , governments and ngos , will be invited to join eu efforts as an integral part of initiatives in support of eu action for poverty - eradication , sustainability , reinforced research and innovation excellence , and competitiveness . the international transfer of knowledge , capacity and infrastructure between the partners will drive shared approaches and regulation that will bring synergistic trading to all .


### this intervention area will support the horizon europe specific objectives : spread and connect excellence across the eu ; reinforce the creation of high quality knowledge ; increase cross - sectorial , cross - disciplinary cross - border cooperation . ### the ' spreading excellence ' priority will support the horizon europe specific objectives : spread and connect excellence across the eu ; reinforce the creation of high quality knowledge ; increase cross - sectorial , cross - disciplinary cross - border cooperation . all actions should encourage synergies with other national and eu funds , particularly with erdf and esf + , in line with regional research and innovation smart specialization strategies .


### 2 . 4 . buildings and industrial facilities in energy transition ### 2 . 4 . buildings in energy transition


### the overall aim is to endow europe with world - class sustainable research infrastructures open and accessible to all researchers in europe and beyond , which fully exploit their potential for scientific advance and innovation . key objectives are to reduce the fragmentation of the research and innovation ecosystem , avoiding duplication of effort , and better coordinate the development and use of research infrastructures . it is crucial to support open access to research infrastructures for all european researchers as well as , through the european open science cloud , increased access to digital research resources , specifically tackling the currently sub - optimal embracement of open science and open data practises . equally , the eu needs to tackle the rapid increase of global competition for talent by attracting third country researchers to work with european world - class research infrastructures . increasing the competitiveness of european industry is also a major objective , supporting key technologies and services relevant for research infrastructures and their users , thus improving the conditions for supply of innovative solutions . ### the overall aim is to improve europe ' s endowment with world - class sustainable research infrastructures open and accessible to all researchers in europe and beyond , which fully exploit their potential for scientific advance and innovation . key objectives are to reduce the fragmentation of the research and innovation ecosystem , ensure continuous modernisation avoiding duplication of effort , and better coordinate the development , use and accessibility of research infrastructures as well as its better involvement in horizon europe’s projects , including research infrastructures founded by the eu , particularly from erdf . this will provide clear synergies between horizon europe and conducted national and regional strategies . it is also crucial to support open access to research infrastructures for all european researchers as well as , through the european open science cloud , increased access to digital research resources , specifically tackling the currently sub - optimal embracement of open science and open data practises . equally , the eu needs to tackle the rapid increase of global competition for talent by attracting third country researchers to work with european world - class research infrastructures . increasing the competitiveness of european industry is also a major objective , supporting key technologies and services relevant for research infrastructures and their users , thus improving the conditions for supply and utilisation of innovative solutions .


### the combined effects of population growth , resource scarcity and overexploitation , environmental degradation , climate change and migration create unprecedented challenges which require food system transformation 20 . current food production and consumption are largely unsustainable while we are confronted with the double burden of malnutrition , characterised by the coexistence of undernutrition and obesity . future food systems need to deliver sufficient safe , healthy and quality food for all , underpinned by resource efficiency , sustainability , linking land and sea , reducing food waste , enhancing food production from the seas and oceans and encompassing the entire ' food value chain ' from producers to consumers – and back again . this needs to go hand in hand with development of the food safety system of the future and the design , development and delivery of tools , technologies and digital solutions that provide significant benefits for consumers and improve the competitiveness and sustainability of the food value chain . furthermore , there is a need to foster behavioural changes in food consumption and production patterns as well as to engage primary producers , industry , retailers , food service sectors , consumers , and public services . broad lines ________________ 20 swd 319 final : european research and innovation for food and nutrition security ### the combined effects of population growth , resource scarcity and overexploitation , environmental degradation , climate change and migration create unprecedented challenges which require food system transformation . 20 especially the food security and sustainable production of protein is a global challenge for which answers must be found . current food production and consumption patterns are to some extent unsustainable while we are confronted with the double burden of malnutrition , characterised by the coexistence of undernutrition and obesity . future food systems need to be resilient and aim at carbon neutrality and deliver sufficient safe , diverse , affordable , healthy and quality food for all , underpinned by resource efficiency , economic and environmental sustainability , linking land and aquatic environments , reducing and recycling food waste , enhancing food production from the seas and oceans and encompassing the entire ' food value chain ' from producers to consumers – and back again . this needs to go hand in hand with development of the food safety system of the future and the design , development and delivery of tools , technologies and digital solutions that provide significant benefits to all actors of the food chain and improve the competitiveness and sustainability of the food value chain . agricultural technologies can provide sustainable solutions across all farming systems . furthermore , there is a need to foster behavioural changes in food consumption and production patterns towards nutritious and healthy diets as well as to engage primary producers , industry , retailers , food service sectors , consumers , and public services . broad lines ________________ 20 swd 319 final : european research and innovation for food and nutrition security


### science and technology cooperation dialogues with the eu ' s international partners and policy dialogues with the main world regions will make important contributions to the systematic identification of opportunities for cooperation which , when combined with differentiation by country / region , will support priority setting . ### science and technology cooperation dialogues with the eu ' s international partners and policy dialogues with the main world regions will make important contributions to the systematic identification of opportunities for cooperation which , when combined with differentiation by country / region , will support priority setting . these dialogues will be underpinned both by adequate consultation both with the member states and with public and private research partners .


### –planning and implementation of eit activities in order to maximise synergies and complementarities with the actions under the global challenges and industrial competitiveness pillar ; ### –planning and implementation of eit activities in order to maximise synergies and complementarities with the actions under the open science and global challenges and european industrial competitiveness pillar ;


### horizon europe will provide dedicated support for open access to scientific publications , to knowledge repositories and other data sources . dissemination and knowledge diffusion actions will be supported , also from cooperation with other eu programmes , including clustering and packaging results and data in languages and formats for target audiences and networks for citizens , industry , public administrations , academia , civil society organisations , and policy makers . for this purpose , horizon europe may make use of advanced technologies and intelligence tools . ### horizon europe will provide dedicated support for open access to scientific publications , to knowledge repositories and other data sources . dissemination and knowledge diffusion actions will be supported , also from cooperation with other eu programmes , including clustering and packaging results and data in languages and formats for target audiences and networks for citizens , industry , public administrations , academia , civil society organisations , and policy makers . for this purpose , horizon europe may make use of advanced technologies and intelligence tools . commission will implement an instrument to make public in real time , the implementation of the programme , including data about the participants , financing amounts , results , market uptake .


### supporting the implementation of union policy priorities ; ### supporting the implementation of union policy priorities , including the achievement of the sustainable development goals ;


### –electrification and use of unconventional energy sources within industrial plants , and energy and resource exchanges between industrial plants ; ### –electrification and use of unconventional energy sources within industrial plants , and energy and resource exchanges between industrial plants , with due attention to standardisation ;


### increasing collaboration across sectors and disciplines ; ### increasing collaboration across sectors and research disciplines ;


### –the state and value of biodiversity , terrestrial and marine ecosystems , natural capital and ecosystem services ; ### –the state and value of biodiversity , terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems , natural capital and ecosystem services and sustainability of primary production ;


### –providing researchers with attractive career environments , skills and competences needed in the modern knowledge economy36 . linking the era and the european higher education area by supporting the modernisation of universities and other research and innovation organisations , through recognition and reward mechanisms to spur actions at national level , as well as incentives promoting the adoption of open science practices , entrepreneurship , trans - disciplinarity , citizen engagement , international and inter - sectoral mobility , gender equality plans and comprehensive approaches to institutional changes . in that context , also complementing the erasmus programme support for the european universities initiative , in particular its research dimension , as part of developing new joint and integrated long term and sustainable strategies on education , research and innovation based on trans - disciplinary and cross - sectoral approaches to make the knowledge triangle a reality , providing impetus to economic growth . _________________ 36 including notably the european charter for researchers , the code of conduct for the recruitment of researchers , euraxess and resaver pension fund . ### –providing researchers with attractive career environments , skills and competences needed in the modern knowledge economy36 . linking the era and the european higher education area by supporting the modernisation of universities and other research and innovation organisations , through recognition and reward mechanisms to spur actions at national level , as well as incentives promoting the adoption of open science practices , entrepreneurship , trans - disciplinarity , citizen engagement , international and inter - sectoral mobility , gender equality plans and comprehensive approaches to institutional changes . in that context , also complementing the erasmus programme support for the european universities initiative , in particular through financing research and innovation projects within these networks , as part of developing new joint and integrated long term and sustainable strategies on education , research and innovation based on trans - disciplinary and cross - sectoral approaches to make the knowledge triangle a reality , providing impetus to economic growth . _________________ 36 including notably the european charter for researchers , the code of conduct for the recruitment of researchers , euraxess and resaver pension fund .


### work programmes ### strategic planning and work programmes


### –plant pests and diseases and animal health and welfare ; alternatives to the use of contentious pesticides , antibiotics and other substances ; ### –plant pests and diseases and animal health and welfare ; alternatives to the use of contentious pesticides , antibiotics and other substances development of organic farming strategies to plant and animal health care ;


### there will be support to bring technology from lab to market and to develop applications including pilot lines and demonstrators , measures to stimulate market uptake and to boost private sector commitment . synergies with other programmes will be maximised . ### there will be support to bring technology from lab to market and to develop applications including pilot lines and demonstrators , measures to stimulate market uptake and to boost private sector commitment . synergies with other parts of horizon europe , especially the eit , as well as other programmes will be maximised .


### where the economic operators have used the exception provided for in paragraphs 1 to 5 for a specific product or service they shall notify the relevant market surveillance authority of the member state in the market of which the product or service is placed or made available . notification shall include the assessment referred to in paragraph 3 . microenterprises are exempted from this notification requirement but must be able to supply the relevant documentation upon request from a relevant market surveillance authority . ### where the economic operators have used the exception provided for in paragraphs 1 to 5 for a specific product or service they shall , at the request of the competent authority of the member state in the market of which the product or service is placed or made available , make available their proportionality assessment referred to in paragraph 3 .


### the burden shall not be deemed disproportionate where it is compensated by funding from other sources than the economic operator’s own resources , whether public or private . ### the burden shall not be deemed disproportionate where it is compensated by funding from other sources than the economic operator’s own resources , whether public or private . lack of priority , schedule or knowledge shall not be considered as legitimate excuse to claim the disproportionate burden .


### in some situations , common accessibility requirements of the built environment would facilitate the free movement of the related services and of persons with disabilities . therefore , this directive enables member states to include the built environment used in the provision of the services under the scope of this directive , ensuring compliance with the accessibility requirements set in annex x . ### common accessibility requirements of the built environment are essential for the free movement of the related services and of persons with disabilities . therefore , this directive enables member states to include the built environment used in the provision of the services under the scope of this directive , ensuring compliance with the accessibility requirements set in annex x .


### it is necessary to introduce the accessibility requirements in the least burdensome manner for the economic operators and the member states , notably by only including in the scope the products and services which have been thoroughly selected . ### it is necessary to introduce the accessibility requirements which enable all people to fully use the products and services and infrastructure covered by this directive in the least burdensome manner for the economic operators and the member states .


### air , bus , rail and waterborne passenger transport services ; ### air , bus , rail and waterborne passenger transport services and infrastructure ;


### the following self - service terminals : automatic teller machines , ticketing machines and check - in machines shall comply with the requirements set out in section ii of annex i . ### self - service terminals : automatic teller machines , ticketing machines , payment terminals and check - in machines shall comply with the requirements set out in section ii of annex i .


### in some situations , common accessibility requirements of the built environment would facilitate the free movement of the related services and of persons with disabilities . therefore , this directive enables member states to include the built environment used in the provision of the services under the scope of this directive , ensuring compliance with the accessibility requirements set in annex x . ### common accessibility requirements of the built environment are essential for the free movement of the related services and of persons with disabilities . therefore , this directive commits member states to include the built environment used in the provision of the services under the scope of this directive , ensuring compliance with the accessibility requirements set in annex x .


### provisions whereby a consumer may take action under national law before the courts or before the competent administrative bodies to ensure that the national provisions transposing this directive are complied with ; ### easily accessible provisions whereby a consumer may take action under national law before the courts or before the competent administrative bodies to ensure that the national provisions transposing this directive are complied with ;


### due to their potential to increase the efficiency of the efsi intervention , blending operations combining non - reimbursable forms of support and / or financial instruments from the union budget , such as those available under the connecting europe facility , and financing from eib group , including eib financing under the efsi , as well as other investors should be encouraged . blending aims to enhance the value added of union spending by attracting additional resources from private investors and to ensure the actions supported become economically and financially viable . ### due to their potential to increase the efficiency of the efsi intervention , blending operations combining non - reimbursable forms of support and / or financial instruments from the union budget , and financing from eib group , including eib financing under the efsi , as well as other investors should be encouraged . blending aims to enhance the value added of union spending by attracting additional resources from private investors and to ensure the actions supported become economically and financially viable .


### the european investment advisory hub should be enhanced and its activities should focus on needs not covered adequately under current arrangements . it should pay particular attention to supporting the preparation of projects involving two or more member states and projects that contribute to achieving the objectives of cop21 . notwithstanding its objective to build upon existing advisory services of the eib and the commission , so to act as a single technical advisory hub for project financing within the union , the eiah should also contribute actively to the objective of sectorial and geographical diversification of the efsi and support the eib where needed in originating projects . it should also actively contribute to the establishment of investment platforms and provide advice on the combination of other sources of union funding with the efsi . ### the european investment advisory hub should be enhanced and its activities should focus on needs not covered adequately under current arrangements . it should pay particular attention to supporting the preparation of projects involving two or more member states and projects that contribute to achieving the objectives of cop21 and the europe 2020 strategy , including tackling poverty and social exclusion . notwithstanding its objective to build upon existing advisory services of the eib and the commission , so to act as a single technical advisory hub for project financing within the union , the eiah should also contribute actively to the objective of sectorial and geographical diversification of the efsi and support the eib where needed in originating projects . it should also actively contribute to the establishment of investment platforms and provide advice on the combination of other sources of union funding with the efsi .


### in line with the exceptional market demand for sme financing under the efsi which is expected to continue , the efsi sme window should be enhanced . particular attention should be paid to social enterprises , including through the development and deployment of new instruments . ### in line with the exceptional market demand for sme financing under the efsi which is expected to continue , the efsi sme window should be enhanced . particular attention should be paid to social enterprises , including through the development and deployment of new instruments adequate for the sector’s needs and specificities .


### the commission shall scrutinise by appropriate means any application that it receives pursuant to article 21 , in order to check that it is justified and that it meets the conditions of this chapter . this scrutiny should not exceed a period of 12 months . where this period is exceeded , the commission shall indicate in writing to the applicant the reasons for the delay . ### the commission shall scrutinise by appropriate means any application that it receives pursuant to article 21 , in order to check that it is justified and that it meets the conditions of this chapter . this scrutiny should not exceed a period of six months . where this period is exceeded , the commission shall indicate in writing to the applicant the reasons for the delay .


### member states shall take the steps necessary to stop the unlawful use of protected geographical indications as referred to in paragraph 2 . ### member states shall take the steps necessary to stop the unlawful use of registered geographical indications as referred to in paragraph 2 .


### where a spirit drink meets the requirements of more than one of the categories of spirit drinks 15 to 47 of part i of annex ii , it may be sold under one or more of the relevant sales denominations provided for under those categories . ### where a spirit drink meets the requirements of more than one of the categories of spirit drinks listed in part i of annex ii , it may be placed on the market under one or more of the prescribed names provided for under those categories .


### protected geographical indications shall not become generic in the union within the meaning of article 32 . ### registered geographical indications shall not become generic in the union within the meaning of article 32 .


### any other natural carbohydrate substances having a similar effect to the products referred to in points to . ### any other natural carbohydrate substances or agricultural raw materials having a similar effect to the products referred to in points to .


### be sweetened to correspond to particular product characteristics and in accordance with point of annex i and taking into account the relevant legislation of the member states . ### be sweetened to correspond to particular product characteristics and in accordance with point of annex i and taking into account the relevant legislation of the member states . in each case , the sugar content shall be established for each product category using the procedure laid down in article 5 .


### any misuse , imitation or evocation , even if the true origin of the product or service is indicated or if the protected name is translated or accompanied by an expression such as ‘ style’ , ‘ type’ , ‘ method’ , ‘ as produced in’ , ‘ imitation’ , ‘ flavour’ , ‘ like’ or similar ; ### any misuse , imitation or evocation , even if the true origin of the product or service is indicated or if the protected name is translated or accompanied by an expression such as ‘ style’ , ‘ type’ , ‘ method’ , ‘ as produced in’ , ‘ imitation’ , ‘ flavour’ , ‘ like’ or similar , including when those products are used as an ingredient ;


### ‘ mixture’ means a spirit drink listed in part i of annex ii or corresponding to a geographical indication mixed with any of the following : ### ‘ mixture’ means a spirit drink listed in part i of annex ii or corresponding to a geographical indication mixed with one of more of the following :


### protected geographical indications may be used by any operator marketing a spirit drink produced in conformity with the corresponding product specification . ### registered geographical indications may be used by any operator marketing a spirit drink produced in conformity with the corresponding product specification .


### use of a union symbol for protected geographical indications ### use of a union symbol for registered geographical indications


### implementing powers with respect to existing protected geographical indications ### implementing powers with respect to existing registered geographical indications


### the name to be protected as a geographical indication , as it is used , whether in trade or in common language , and only in the languages which are or were historically used to describe the specific product in the defined geographical area ; ### the name to be registered as a geographical indication , as it is used , whether in trade or in common language , and only in the languages which are or were historically used to describe the specific product in the defined geographical area ;


### either directly by using any of the following methods : ### either directly by using any of the following methods , individually or in combination :


### by terms indicated in the relevant product specification . ### by any terms permitted by the relevant product specification .


### - the maceration or similar processing of plant materials in ethyl alcohol of agricultural origin , distillates of agricultural origin or spirit drinks or a mixture thereof within the meaning of this regulation , ### - the maceration or similar processing of plant materials in ethyl alcohol of agricultural origin , distillates of agricultural origin or spirit drinks or a combination thereof within the meaning of this regulation ,


### a description of the method of obtaining the spirit drink and , where appropriate , the authentic and unvarying local methods as well as information on packaging , if the applicant group so determines and gives sufficient product - specific justification as to why the packaging must take place in the defined geographical area to safeguard quality , to ensure the origin or to ensure control , taking into account union law , in particular that on the free movement of goods and the free provision of services ; ### a description of the method of producing the spirit drink and , where appropriate , the authentic and unvarying local methods as well as information on packaging , if the applicant group so determines and gives sufficient product - specific justification as to why the packaging must take place in the defined geographical area to safeguard quality , to ensure the origin or to ensure control , taking into account union law , in particular that on the free movement of goods and the free provision of services ;


### the competent authorities or bodies referred to in paragraphs 1 and 2 verifying compliance of the protected geographical indication with the product specification shall be objective and impartial . they shall have at their disposal the qualified staff and resources necessary to carry out their tasks . ### the competent authorities or bodies referred to in paragraphs 1 and 2 verifying compliance of the registered geographical indication with the product specification shall be objective and impartial . they shall have at their disposal the qualified staff and resources necessary to carry out their tasks .


### as a response to recent terrorist acts which demonstrated gaps in the implementation of directive 91 / 477 / eec especially with regard to deactivation of weapons , convertibility and marking rules , the “european agenda on security” adopted in april 2015 and the declaration of the home affairs ministers council of 29 august 2015 called for the revision of that directive and for a common approach on the deactivation of firearms to prevent reactivation and use by criminals . ### the amendments to council directive 91 / 477 / eec should not result from the fact of implying any form of connection between the recent terrorist attacks and the legal use and possession of weapons within the union , not least by hunters , persons who engage in shooting sports , and collectors . the manufacture of , trade in , and the possession and use of weapons and ammunition are legitimate activities of major recreational , sporting , and economic interest and important for job and wealth creation within the union . however , the “european agenda on security” adopted in april 2015 and the declaration of the home affairs ministers council of 29 august 2015 called for the revision of that directive and for a common approach on the deactivation of firearms to prevent reactivation and use by criminals .


### the acquisition of firearms and their parts and ammunition concerning categories a , b and c by means of distance communication , as defined in article 2 of directive 97 / 7 / ec of the european parliament and of the council , shall be authorised only with respect to dealers and brokers and shall be subject to the strict control of the member states . ### member states shall authorise the acquisition and selling of firearms and their parts and ammunition concerning categories a , b c and d set out in annex i by means of distance communication , as defined in article 2 of directive 97 / 7 / ec of the european parliament and of the council , only through authorised dealers and brokers . member states shall subject such acquisitions and sales to a strict control , including secure verification of the validity of the license for acquisition of firearms and ammunition and the identity of their buyer .


### the competent authorities of the member states shall exchange information on the authorisations granted for the transfers of firearms to another member state as well as information with regard to refusals to grant authorisations as defined in article 7 . ### the competent authorities of the member states shall exchange information regularly , effectively and electronically on the authorisations granted for the transfers of firearms to another member state , on any interruption to authorisations granted , as well as information with regard to refusals to grant authorisations as defined in article 7 .


### bodies concerned with the cultural and historical aspects of weapons and recognised as such by the member state in whose territory they are established and holding in their possession firearms classified in category a acquired before the date of entry into force of this directive should be able to keep those firearms in their possession subject to authorisation by the member state concerned and provided that those firearms have been deactivated . ### bodies concerned with the cultural and historical aspects of weapons and recognised as such by the member state in whose territory they are established and holding in their possession firearms classified in category a should be able to keep those firearms in their possession subject to authorisation by the member state concerned ;


### for the purposes of this directive , “deactivated firearms” shall mean firearms that have been modified with the purpose of rendering them permanently unfit for use by deactivation , ensuring that all essential parts of the firearm have been rendered permanently inoperable and incapable of removal , replacement or a modification that would permit the firearm to be reactivated in any way . ### for the purposes of this directive , “deactivated firearms” shall mean firearms that have been modified with the purpose of rendering them permanently unfit for use by deactivation , ensuring that all essential parts of the firearm have been rendered permanently inoperable and incapable of removal , replacement or a modification that would permit the firearm from being reactivated in any way . however , if weapons are of recognised rarity or historical value , that fact shall be taken into account for the purposes of deactivation , which may be carried out by removing one or more essential parts of a weapon so as to render it unusable . the parts removed may be handed over to appropriate official bodies for safekeeping , in order to prevent their destruction .


### this directive shall not apply to the acquisition or possession of weapons and ammunition , in accordance with national law , by the armed forces , the police , the public authorities . nor shall it apply to commercial transfers of weapons and ammunition of war . ### this directive shall not apply to the acquisition or possession of weapons and ammunition , in accordance with national law , by the armed forces , the police , the public authorities or by collectors and bodies concerned with the cultural and historical aspects of weapons and recognized as such by the member state in whose territory they are established . nor shall it apply to commercial transfers of products of the defence industry .


### member states shall take measures to ensure that alarm and signal weapons as well as salute and acoustic weapons cannot be converted into firearms . ### member states shall take measures with regard to arms manufacturers and arms dealers to ensure that alarm and signal weapons as well as salute and acoustic weapons cannot be converted into firearms .


### for the purposes of this directive , ' essential component ' shall mean the barrel , frame , receiver , slide or cylinder , bolt or breach block and any device designed or adapted to diminish the sound caused by firing a firearm which , being separate objects , are included in the category of the firearms on which they are or are intended to be mounted . ' ### for the purposes of this directive , ' essential component ' shall mean any part essential to its operation , including the barrel , frame , receiver , slide or cylinder , bolt or breach block which , being separate objects , are included in the category of the firearms on which they are or are intended to be mounted .


### bodies concerned with the cultural and historical aspects of weapons and recognised as such by the member state in whose territory they are established and holding in their possession firearms classified in category a acquired before the date of entry into force of this directive should be able to keep those firearms in their possession subject to authorisation by the member state concerned and provided that those firearms have been deactivated . ### collectors and bodies concerned with the cultural and historical aspects of weapons and recognised as such by the member state in whose territory they are established and holding in their possession firearms classified in category a acquired before the date of entry into force of this directive should be able to keep those firearms in their possession subject to authorisation by the member state concerned and provided that those firearms have been deactivated .


### furthermore , the risk of alarm weapons and other types of blank firing weapons being converted to real firearms is high , and in some of the terrorist acts converted arms were used . it is therefore essential to address the problem of converted firearms being used in criminal offences , notably by including them in the scope of the directive . technical specifications for alarm and signal weapons as well as for salute and acoustic weapons should be adopted in order to ensure that they cannot be converted into firearms . ### technical specifications for alarm and signal weapons as well as for salute and acoustic weapons should be adopted in order to ensure that they cannot be converted into firearms .


### in order to ensure the traceability of deactivated firearms , they should be registered in national registries . ### in order to ensure the traceability of deactivated firearms , they should be registered in regularly updated national registries accessible by each member state’s law enforcement authorities .


### certain issues in directive 91 / 477 / eec need further improvement . ### certain issues in directive 91 / 477 / eec need further improvement in a proportionate way to tackle arms trafficking for criminal or terrorist purposes .


### are not likely to be a danger to themselves , to public order or to public safety ; having been convicted of a violent intentional crime shall be considered as indicative of such danger . ### are not likely to be a danger to themselves and to others , to public order or to public safety ; having been convicted of a violent intentional crime shall be considered as indicative of such danger .


### bodies concerned with the cultural and historical aspects of weapons and recognised as such by the member state in whose territory they are established and holding in their possession firearms classified in category a acquired before the date of entry into force of this directive should be able to keep those firearms in their possession subject to authorisation by the member state concerned and provided that those firearms have been deactivated . ### collectors and bodies concerned with the cultural and historical aspects of weapons and recognised as such by the member state in whose territory they are established should be able to keep and acquire firearms classified in category a subject to authorisation by the member state concerned .


### member states shall take all appropriate steps to prohibit the acquisition and the possession of the firearms and ammunition classified in category a and to destroy those firearms and ammunition held in violation of this provision and seized . ### except where expressly provided otherwise , member states shall take all appropriate steps to prohibit the acquisition and the possession of the firearms and ammunition classified in category a and to ensure that such weapons are forfeited to the state or , where deemed appropriate , destroyed , if they are held unlawfully .


### the acquisition of firearms and their parts and ammunition concerning categories a , b and c by means of distance communication , as defined in article 2 of directive 97 / 7 / ec of the european parliament and of the council , shall be authorised only with respect to dealers and brokers and shall be subject to the strict control of the member states . ### the acquisition of firearms and their parts and ammunition concerning categories a , b and c by means of distance communication , as defined in article 2 of directive 97 / 7 / ec of the european parliament and of the council , shall be subject to the strict control of the member states and allowed only if member states ensure that the identities of the parties involved are verified .


### the commission shall regularly review the situation in third countries that are on the eu common list of safe countries of origin , based on a range of sources of information , including in particular regular reporting from the eeas and information from member states , easo , unhcr , the council of europe and other relevant international organisations . ### the commission shall regularly review the situation in third countries that are on the eu common list of safe countries of origin , based on a range of sources of information , including in particular regular reporting from the eeas and information from member states , easo , unhcr and the council of europe .


### member states may retain or introduce legislation that allows , in accordance with annex i , for the national designation of safe countries of origin other than those on the eu common list of safe countries of origin established by regulation no xxxx / 2015 [ this regulation ] for the purposes of examining applications for international protection . ### member states may retain or introduce legislation that allows , in accordance with annex i , for the national designation of safe countries of origin other than those on the eu common list of safe countries of origin established by regulation no xxxx / 2015 [ this regulation ] for the purposes of examining applications for international protection . they are responsible for making sure that the national lists of safe countries of origin and the eu common list are consistent with one another .


### the commission should regularly review the situation in third countries that are on the eu common list of safe countries of origin . in case of sudden change for the worse in the situation of a third country on the eu common list , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union should be delegated to the commission in respect of suspending the presence of this third country from the eu common list for a period of one year where it considers , on the basis of a substantiated assessment , that the conditions set by directive 2013 / 32 / eu for regarding a third country as safe country of origin are no longer met . for the purpose of this substantiated assessment , the commission should take into consideration a range of sources of information at its disposal including in particular , its annual progress reports for third countries designated as candidate countries by the european council , regular reports from the european external action service and the information from member states , the european asylum support office , the united nations high commissioner for refugees , the council of europe and other relevant international organisations . the commission should be able to extend the suspension of the presence of a third country from the eu common list for a period of maximum one year , where it has proposed an amendment to this regulation in order to remove this third country from the eu common list of safe countries of origin . it is of particular importance that the commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level . the commission , when preparing and drawing up delegated acts , should ensure a simultaneous , timely and appropriate transmission of relevant documents to the european parliament and to the council . ### the commission should regularly review the situation in third countries that are on the eu common list of safe countries of origin . in case of sudden change for the worse in the situation of a third country on the eu common list , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union should be delegated to the commission in respect of suspending the presence of this third country from the eu common list for a period of one year or less where it considers , on the basis of a substantiated assessment , that the conditions set by directive 2013 / 32 / eu for regarding a third country as safe country of origin are no longer met . for the purpose of this substantiated assessment , the commission should take into consideration a range of sources of information at its disposal including in particular , its annual progress reports for third countries designated as candidate countries by the european council , regular reports from the european external action service and the information from member states , the european asylum support office , the united nations high commissioner for refugees , the council of europe and other relevant international organisations . if , during the suspension period , it becomes clear from the information available that the situation in the third country has stabilised , the commission should be free to decide to lift the suspension of that country from the common list of safe countries of origin . the council and parliament must be kept informed of that decision . the commission should be able to extend the suspension of the presence of a third country from the eu common list for a period of maximum one year , where it has proposed an amendment to this regulation in order to remove this third country from the eu common list of safe countries of origin . it is of particular importance that the commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level . the commission , when preparing and drawing up delegated acts , should ensure a simultaneous , timely and appropriate transmission of relevant documents to the european parliament and to the council .


### an eu common list of safe countries of origin should be established on the basis of the common criteria set in directive 2013 / 32 / eu as it will facilitate the use by all member states of the procedures linked to the application of the safe country of origin concept and , thereby , increase the overall efficiency of their asylum systems as concerns applications for international protection which are likely to be unfounded . the establishment of an eu common list will also address some of the existing divergences between member states’ national lists of safe countries of origin , whereby applicants for international protection originating from the same third countries are not always subject to the same procedures in the member states . while member states should retain the right to apply or introduce legislation that allows for the national designation of third countries other than those appearing on the eu common list as safe countries of origin , the establishment of such a common list will ensure that the concept is applied by all member states in a uniform manner in relation to applicants whose countries of origin are on this list . this will accordingly facilitate convergence in the application of procedures and thereby also deter secondary movements of applicants for international protection . in that context , the possibility to take in the future further steps of harmonisation that could lead to the elimination of the need for national lists of safe countries of origin should be considered after a period of three years following the entry into force of this regulation , on the basis of a report to be presented by the commission . ### an eu common list of safe countries of origin should be established on the basis of the common criteria set in directive 2013 / 32 / eu as it will facilitate the use by all member states of the procedures linked to the application of the safe country of origin concept and , thereby , increase the overall efficiency of their asylum systems as concerns applications for international protection which are likely to be unfounded . this common list of safe countries of origin should make it easier for countries facing high migratory to process asylum requests . the accelerated processing of asylum applications from nationals of safe countries of origin will make it easier and faster for member states to focus on giving international protection to those who need it most . the establishment of an eu common list will also address some of the existing divergences between member states’ national lists of safe countries of origin , whereby applicants for international protection originating from the same third countries are not always subject to the same procedures in the member states . while member states should retain the right to apply or introduce legislation that allows for the national designation of third countries other than those appearing on the eu common list as safe countries of origin , the establishment of such a common list will ensure that the concept is applied by all member states in a uniform manner in relation to applicants whose countries of origin are on this list . this will accordingly facilitate convergence in the application of procedures and thereby also deter secondary movements of applicants for international protection . in that context , the possibility to take in the future further steps of harmonisation that could lead to the elimination of the need for national lists of safe countries of origin should be considered when the eu list is comprehensive enough to replace the national lists , on the basis of a report to be presented by the commission .


### the commission should regularly review the situation in third countries that are on the eu common list of safe countries of origin . in case of sudden change for the worse in the situation of a third country on the eu common list , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union should be delegated to the commission in respect of suspending the presence of this third country from the eu common list for a period of one year where it considers , on the basis of a substantiated assessment , that the conditions set by directive 2013 / 32 / eu for regarding a third country as safe country of origin are no longer met . for the purpose of this substantiated assessment , the commission should take into consideration a range of sources of information at its disposal including in particular , its annual progress reports for third countries designated as candidate countries by the european council , regular reports from the european external action service and the information from member states , the european asylum support office , the united nations high commissioner for refugees , the council of europe and other relevant international organisations . the commission should be able to extend the suspension of the presence of a third country from the eu common list for a period of maximum one year , where it has proposed an amendment to this regulation in order to remove this third country from the eu common list of safe countries of origin . it is of particular importance that the commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level . the commission , when preparing and drawing up delegated acts , should ensure a simultaneous , timely and appropriate transmission of relevant documents to the european parliament and to the council . ### the commission shall regularly review the situation in third countries that are on the eu common list of safe countries of origin . in case of sudden change for the worse in the situation of a third country on the eu common list , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union shall be delegated to the commission in respect of suspending the presence of this third country from the eu common list for a period of one year where it considers , on the basis of a substantiated assessment , that the conditions set by directive 2013 / 32 / eu for regarding a third country as safe country of origin are no longer met . for the purpose of this substantiated assessment , the commission shall take into consideration all sources of information at its disposal including in particular , its annual progress reports for third countries designated as candidate countries by the european council , regular reports from the european external action service and the information from member states , the european asylum support office , the united nations high commissioner for refugees , the council of europe and other relevant international organisations . the commission should be able to extend the suspension of the presence of a third country from the eu common list for a period of maximum one year , where it has proposed an amendment to this regulation in order to remove this third country from the eu common list of safe countries of origin . it is of particular importance that the commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level . the commission , when preparing and drawing up delegated acts , should ensure a simultaneous , timely and appropriate transmission of relevant documents to the european parliament and to the council .


### removal of a third country from the eu common list of safe countries of origin in case of sudden change of situation ### suspension and removal of a third country from the eu common list of safe countries of origin in case of sudden change of situation


### in light of the very sharp increase that has been experienced since 2014 in the number of applications for international protection made in the union and the resulting unprecedented pressure on member states’ asylum systems the union acknowledged the need to strengthen the application of the safe country of origin provisions of directive 2013 / 32 / eu , as an essential tool to support the swift processing of applications that are likely to be unfounded . in particular , in its conclusions of 25 and 26 june 2015 , the european council referred , in relation to the need to accelerate the treatment of asylum applications , to the intention of the commission as set out in its communication on a european agenda on migration8 to strengthen these provisions , including the possible establishment of an eu common list of safe countries of origin . moreover , the justice and home affairs council in its conclusions on safe countries of origin of 20 july 2015 welcomed the intention of the commission to strengthen the safe countries of origin provisions in directive 2013 / 32 / eu , including the possible establishment of an eu common list of safe countries of origin . __________________ 8 com 240 final , 13 . 5 . 2015 . ### in light of the very sharp increase that has been experienced since 2014 in the number of applications for international protection made in the union and the resulting unprecedented pressure on member states’ asylum systems the union acknowledged the need to strengthen the application of the safe country of origin provisions of directive 2013 / 32 / eu , as an essential tool to support the swift processing of applications that are likely to be unfounded . in particular , in its conclusions of 25 and 26 june 2015 , the european council referred , in relation to the need to accelerate the treatment of asylum applications , to the intention of the commission as set out in its communication on a european agenda on migration8 to strengthen these provisions , including the possible establishment of an eu common list of safe countries of origin . __________________ 8 com 240 final , 13 . 5 . 2015 .


### the extended efsi should address remaining market failures and sub - optimal investment situations and continue to mobilise private sector financing in investments crucial for europe’s future job creation – including for the youth – , growth and competitiveness with strengthened additionality . they include investments in the areas of energy , environment and climate action , social and human capital and related infrastructure , healthcare , research and innovation , cross - border and sustainable transport , as well as the digital transformation . in particular , the contribution of operations supported by the efsi to achieving the union ' s ambitious targets set at the paris climate conference should be reinforced . energy interconnection priority projects and energy efficiency projects should also be increasingly targeted . in addition , efsi support to motorways should be avoided , unless it is needed to support private investment in transport in cohesion countries or in cross - border transport projects involving at least one cohesion country . for reasons of clarity , although they are already eligible , it should be explicitly laid down that projects in the fields of agriculture , fishery and aquaculture come within the general objectives eligible for efsi support . ### the extended efsi should address remaining market failures and sub - optimal investment situations and continue to mobilise private sector financing in investments crucial for europe’s future job creation – including for the youth – , growth and competitiveness with strengthened additionality . they include investments in the areas of energy , environment and climate action , social and human capital and related infrastructure , healthcare , research and innovation , cross - border and sustainable transport , as well as the digital transformation . in particular , the contribution of operations supported by the efsi to achieving the union ' s ambitious targets set at the paris climate conference should be reinforced . energy interconnection priority projects and energy efficiency projects should also be increasingly targeted . in addition , efsi support to motorways should be avoided , unless it is needed to support private investment in transport in cohesion countries , including through the establishment of direct road connections to ports and business parks , or in cross - border transport projects involving at least one cohesion country . for reasons of clarity , although they are already eligible , it should be explicitly laid down that projects in the fields of agriculture , fishery and aquaculture come within the general objectives eligible for efsi support .


### the extended efsi should address remaining market failures and sub - optimal investment situations and continue to mobilise private sector financing in investments crucial for europe’s future job creation – including for the youth – , growth and competitiveness with strengthened additionality . they include investments in the areas of energy , environment and climate action , social and human capital and related infrastructure , healthcare , research and innovation , cross - border and sustainable transport , as well as the digital transformation . in particular , the contribution of operations supported by the efsi to achieving the union ' s ambitious targets set at the paris climate conference should be reinforced . energy interconnection priority projects and energy efficiency projects should also be increasingly targeted . in addition , efsi support to motorways should be avoided , unless it is needed to support private investment in transport in cohesion countries or in cross - border transport projects involving at least one cohesion country . for reasons of clarity , although they are already eligible , it should be explicitly laid down that projects in the fields of agriculture , fishery and aquaculture come within the general objectives eligible for efsi support . ### the efsi should address remaining market failures and sub - optimal investment situations and continue to mobilise private sector financing in investments crucial for europe ' s future job creation – including for the youth – , growth and competitiveness with strengthened additionality . they include investments in the areas of energy , environment and climate action , social and human capital and related infrastructure , healthcare , research and innovation , cross - border and sustainable transport , as well as the digital transformation . in particular , the contribution of operations supported by the efsi to achieving the union ' s ambitious targets set at the paris climate conference should be reinforced . electricity interconnection priority projects and energy efficiency projects should also be increasingly targeted . in addition , efsi support to motorways should be avoided , except for cross - border sections as defined in transport in article 2 of regulation 1316 / 2013 between cohesion countries . it should be explicitly laid down that projects in the fields of agriculture , fishery and aquaculture are not eligible for efsi support . efsi support for fossil fuel projects , especially infrastructure and nuclear installations should be avoided . given the very high rates of poverty and social exclusion in europe , the operations supported by the efsi to tackling this issue should be reinforced . further given the significant need for investment into social infrastructure , projects in the fields of social services , healthcare services , education and social housing come within the general objectives eligible for efsi support .


### in order to partly finance the contribution from the general budget of the union to the eu guarantee fund for the additional investments to be made , a transfer should be made from the available envelope of the connecting europe facility , provided for in regulation no 1316 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council4 moreover , eur 1 145 797 000 of appropriations should be transferred from the cef financial instruments to the grant part of the cef with a view to facilitating blending with the efsi or to other relevant instruments , in particular those dedicated to energy efficiency . __________________ 4 regulation no 1316 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 11 december 2013 establishing the connecting europe facility , amending regulation no 913 / 2010 and repealing regulations no 680 / 2007 and no 67 / 2010 , oj l 348 , 12 . 2013 , p . 129 . ### in order to partly finance the contribution from the general budget of the union to the eu guarantee fund for the additional investments to be made , an amount of eur 650 000 000 from the unallocated margins under the 2014 - 2020 multiannual financial framework ceilings should be earmarked for that purpose , to be authorised by the european parliament and the council through the annual budgetary procedure . moreover , eur 1 645 797 000 of appropriations should be transferred from the cef financial instruments to the grant part of the cef with a view to facilitating blending with the efsi or to other relevant instruments , in particular those dedicated to energy efficiency .


### the eib and the eif should ensure that the final beneficiaries , including smes , are informed of the existence of efsi support , so as to enhance the visibility of the eu guarantee granted under regulation 2015 / 1017 . ### the eib and the eif should ensure that all the final beneficiaries are duly informed of the existence of efsi support , so as to enhance the visibility of the eu guarantee granted under regulation 2015 / 1017 and encourage the preparation of investment projects offering broad sectorial and geographical coverage .


### decisions approving the use of the eu guarantee shall be public and accessible , and include the rationale for the decision , with particular focus on compliance with the additionality criterion . the publication shall not contain commercially sensitive information . in reaching its decision , the investment committee shall be supported by the documentation provided by the eib . ; ### decisions approving the use of the eu guarantee shall be public and accessible . they shall include the rationale for the decision , with particular focus on compliance with the additionality criterion and an explanation on how the scoreboard was used to justify the use of the eu guarantee . the scoreboard shall also be public . in case of commercially sensitive decisions , the eib shall forward to the european parliament such decisions and information concerning promoters or financial intermediaries at the date of closing of the relevant financing or any earlier date when commercial sensitivity ends . in reaching its decision , the investment committee shall be supported by the documentation provided by the eib .


### the eib and the eif should ensure that the final beneficiaries , including smes , are informed of the existence of efsi support , so as to enhance the visibility of the eu guarantee granted under regulation 2015 / 1017 . ### the eib and the eif should ensure that the final beneficiaries , including start - ups and smes , are informed of the existence of efsi support , so as to enhance the visibility of the eu guarantee granted under regulation 2015 / 1017 . the efsi logo should be prominently placed in the financing agreement , particularly in the case of smes , so as to increase the visibility of the efsi as a union initiative .


### to better address market failures or sub - optimal investment situations , eib special activities supported by the efsi shall typically have features such as subordination , participation in risk - sharing instruments , cross - border characteristics , exposure to specific risks or other identifiable aspects as further described in annex ii . ### to better address economic and financial inefficiencies , including market failures or sub - optimal investment situations , discrepancies in the investment capacity of the member states as reflected in diverse risk premiums , leveraging frictions or weak investment multipliers , and including also complicated multinational and cross border projects , and lack of risk - taking , especially in research , innovation , new technologies as well as in new and traditional infrastructures , eib ' s special activities supported by the efsi shall typically have features such as subordination , participation in risk - sharing instruments , as well as first - loss guarantee schemes only when combined with eu and / or national budgetary resources , cross - border characteristics , exposure to specific risks or other identifiable aspects as further described in annex ii .


### the european investment advisory hub should be enhanced and its activities should focus on needs not covered adequately under current arrangements . it should pay particular attention to supporting the preparation of projects involving two or more member states and projects that contribute to achieving the objectives of cop21 . notwithstanding its objective to build upon existing advisory services of the eib and the commission , so to act as a single technical advisory hub for project financing within the union , the eiah should also contribute actively to the objective of sectorial and geographical diversification of the efsi and support the eib where needed in originating projects . it should also actively contribute to the establishment of investment platforms and provide advice on the combination of other sources of union funding with the efsi . ### the european investment advisory hub should be enhanced and its activities should address any shortcomings in the implementation of the efsi . it should play an instrumental role in empowering project promoters to initiate and develop viable , sustainable and quality projects . it should pay particular attention to supporting the preparation of projects involving two or more member states or regions . the eiah should also contribute actively to the objective of sectorial and geographical diversification of the efsi and proactively support the eib in originating projects and launching operations , as well as in initiating demand , where needed . it should also actively contribute to the establishment of investment platforms and provide advice on the combination of other sources of union funding with the efsi . it is considered necessary for the eiah to establish a strong local presence , where needed , to leverage local knowledge about the efsi and better consider local needs . the eiah should aim to conclude agreements with national promotional banks or institutions in each member state . to achieve those objectives , the staff capacity of the eiah should be commensurate to the tasks that it is called upon to undertake .


### decisions approving the use of the eu guarantee shall be public and accessible , and include the rationale for the decision , with particular focus on compliance with the additionality criterion . the publication shall not contain commercially sensitive information . in reaching its decision , the investment committee shall be supported by the documentation provided by the eib . ### decisions approving the use of the eu guarantee shall be public and accessible , and shall include the rationale for the decision , with particular focus on compliance with the additionality criterion and union policy objectives . such decisions shall also include information on the fulfilment of the eligibility criteria referred to in article 6 and on the use of the scoreboard of indicators referred to in paragraph 14 of this article . the publication shall not contain commercially sensitive information . in reaching its decision , the investment committee shall be supported by the documentation provided by the eib .


### due to their potential to increase the efficiency of the efsi intervention , blending operations combining non - reimbursable forms of support and / or financial instruments from the union budget , such as those available under the connecting europe facility , and financing from eib group , including eib financing under the efsi , as well as other investors should be encouraged . blending aims to enhance the value added of union spending by attracting additional resources from private investors and to ensure the actions supported become economically and financially viable . ### due to their potential to increase the efficiency of the efsi intervention , combining non - reimbursable forms of support and / or financial instruments from the union budget , such as those available under the connecting europe facility , and financing from eib group , including eib financing under the efsi , as well as other investors should be encouraged . combining aims to enhance the value added of union spending by attracting additional resources from private investors and to ensure the actions supported become economically and financially viable . the combined use of the efsi and the european structural and investment funds can help attain a wider geographical coverage of the efsi . however , it is crucial that the efsi does not replace or crowd - out grants and that its additionality is maintained .