### &#8220 ; solidarity activity&#8221 ; means an activity aimed at addressing unmet societal needs to the benefit of a community while also fostering the individual ' s personal , educational , social , civic and professional development , which may take the form of placements , projects or networking activities , developed in relation to different areas , such as education and training , employment , gender equality , entrepreneurship , in particular social entrepreneurship , citizenship and democratic participation , environment and nature protection , climate action , disaster prevention , preparedness and recovery , agriculture and rural development , provision of food and non - food items , health and wellbeing , creativity and culture , physical education and sport , social assistance and welfare , reception and integration of third - country nationals , territorial cooperation and cohesion ; ### &#8220 ; solidarity activity&#8221 ; means an activity aimed at addressing unmet societal needs to the benefit of a community while also fostering the individual ' s personal , educational , social and civic development , which may take the form of placements , projects or networking activities , developed in relation to different areas , such as education and training , employment , gender equality , entrepreneurship , in particular social entrepreneurship , citizenship and democratic participation , environment and nature protection , climate action , disaster prevention , preparedness and recovery , agriculture and rural development , provision of food and non - food items , health and wellbeing , creativity and culture , physical education and sport , social assistance and welfare , reception and integration of third - country nationals , territorial cooperation and cohesion ;


### “solidarity placement” means a volunteering activity , traineeship or job in a solidarity - related area , which is organised by a participating organisation and which contributes to addressing key societal challenges while enhancing the personal , educational , social , civic and professional development and the employability of the european solidarity corps participant who undertakes it , either in a country other than the country of residence or in the country of residence of the participant ; ### “solidarity placement” means a volunteering activity in a solidarity - related area , which is organised by a participating organisation and which contributes to addressing key societal challenges while enhancing the personal , educational , social and civic development of the european solidarity corps participant who undertakes it , either in a country other than the country of residence or in the country of residence of the participant ;


### “european solidarity corps resource center” means the additional functions performed by a designated national agency to support the development and implementation of activities under the european solidarity corps as well as the identification of the competences acquired by the participants through their placements and projects ; ### “european solidarity corps resource center” means the additional functions performed by a designated national agency to support the development and implementation of activities under the european solidarity corps as well as the identification of the competences acquired by the participants through their projects ;


### in the light of the council conclusions of 12 february 2016 on the fight against the financing of terrorism , the communication from the commission to the european parliament and the council on an action plan for strengthening the fight against terrorist financing24 and the directive on combating terrorism25 , common rules on trade with third countries should be enacted so as to ensure the effective protection against the loss of cultural goods , the preservation of humanity ' s cultural heritage and the prevention of terrorist financing through the selling of looted cultural heritage to buyers in the union . __________________ 24 com 50 final . 25 directive 2017 / 541 of the european parliament and of the council of 15 march 2017 on combating terrorism and replacing council framework decision 2002 / 475 / jha and amending council decision 2005 / 671 / jha ; oj l 88 , 31 . 3 . 2017 , p . 6 - 21 ### in the light of the council conclusions of 12 february 2016 on the fight against the financing of terrorism , the communication from the commission to the european parliament and the council on an action plan for strengthening the fight against terrorist financing24 and the directive on combating terrorism25 , common rules on trade with third countries should be enacted so as to ensure the effective protection against the loss of cultural goods , the preservation of humanity ' s cultural heritage , the prevention of terrorist financing through the selling of looted cultural heritage to buyers in the union , as well as to ensure the restitution to the source country of cultural goods illicitly obtained or traded . __________________ 24 com 50 final . 25 directive 2017 / 541 of the european parliament and of the council of 15 march 2017 on combating terrorism and replacing council framework decision 2002 / 475 / jha and amending council decision 2005 / 671 / jha ; oj l 88 , 31 . 3 . 2017 , p . 6 - 21


### cultural heritage constitutes one of the basic elements of civilisation , it enriches the cultural life of all peoples and it should therefore be protected from unlawful appropriation and pillage . the union should accordingly prohibit the entry in the customs territory of the union of cultural goods unlawfully exported from third countries . ### cultural goods are often of major cultural , artistic , historical , religious or scientific importance . in many cases , countries assert spiritual and / or emotional ties with cultural goods as they are important for their identity . cultural heritage constitutes therefore one of the basic elements of civilisation , it enriches the cultural life of all peoples and it should therefore be protected from unlawful appropriation and pillage . the union should accordingly prohibit the entry in the customs territory of the union of cultural goods unlawfully exported from third countries .


### in order to take account of experience with the implementation of this regulation and of changing geopolitical and other circumstances which place cultural goods at risk , while not impeding trade with third countries disproportionally , 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 modifications to the minimum age threshold criterion for the different categories of cultural goods . that delegation should also allow the commission to update the annex following amendments to the combined nomenclature . it is of particular importance that the commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level , and that those consultations be conducted in accordance with the principles laid down in the interinstitutional agreement on better law - making of 13 april 201627 . in particular , to ensure equal participation in the preparation of delegated acts , the european parliament and the council receive all documents at the same time as member states ' experts , and their experts systematically have access to meetings of commission expert groups dealing with the preparation of delegated acts . __________________ 27 oj l 123 , 12 . 5 . 2016 , p . 1 . ### in order to take account of experience with the implementation of this regulation and of changing geopolitical and other circumstances which place cultural goods at risk , while not impeding trade with third countries disproportionally , 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 modifications to the minimum age threshold criterion for the different categories of cultural goods . that delegation should also allow the commission to update the annex following amendments to the combined nomenclature . it is of particular importance that the commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work with the european parliament and the council , including at expert level . those consultations should be taken into account and be conducted in accordance with the principles laid down in the interinstitutional agreement of 13 april 2016 on better law - making 27 . in particular , to ensure equal participation in the preparation of delegated acts , the european parliament and the council receive all documents at the same time as member states ' experts , and their experts systematically have access to meetings of commission expert groups dealing with the preparation of delegated acts . __________________ 27 oj l 123 , 12 . 5 . 2016 , p . 1 .


### in order to ensure uniform conditions for the implementation of this regulation , implementing powers should be conferred on the commission to adopt specific modalities for the temporary admission and storage of cultural goods into the customs territory of the union , the templates for import licence applications and forms , as well as for importer statements and their accompanying documents , as well as further procedural rules on their submission and processing . implementing powers should also be conferred on the commission to make arrangements for the establishment of an electronic database for the storage and exchange of information between member states . those powers should be exercised in accordance with regulation no 182 / 2011 of the european parliament and of the council28 . __________________ 28 regulation no 182 / 2011 of the european parliament and of the council of 16 february 2011 laying down the rules and general principles concerning mechanisms for control by member states of the commission’s exercise of implementing powers . ### in order to ensure uniform conditions for the implementation of this regulation , implementing powers should be conferred on the commission to adopt , after consultation with the european parliament and the council , specific modalities for the temporary admission and storage of cultural goods into the customs territory of the union , the templates for import licence applications and forms , as well as for importer statements and their accompanying documents , as well as further procedural rules on their submission and processing . implementing powers should also be conferred on the commission to make arrangements for the establishment of a reliable electronic database for the secure storage and easy exchange of information between member states . those powers should be exercised in accordance with regulation no 182 / 2011 of the european parliament and of the council28 . __________________ 28 regulation no 182 / 2011 of the european parliament and of the council of 16 february 2011 laying down the rules and general principles concerning mechanisms for control by member states of the commission’s exercise of implementing powers .


### sufficient time should be provided for the commission to adopt rules implementing this regulation , in particular those regarding the appropriate forms to use to apply for an import licence or to prepare an importer statement . consequently , the application of this regulation should be deferred . ### the commission should adopt without delay rules effectively implementing this regulation , in particular those regarding the appropriate forms to use to apply for an import licence or to prepare an importer statement .


### the commission is empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 12 in order to amend the second column of the table in the annex following amendments in the combined nomenclature and to amend the minimum age threshold in the third column of the table in the annex in the light of experience gathered during the implementation of this regulation . ### the commission is empowered to adopt after consultation also at expert level , inter alia with the european parliament and the council , delegated acts in accordance with article 12 in order to amend the second column of the table in the annex following amendments in the combined nomenclature and to amend the minimum age threshold in the third column of the table in the annex in the light of relevant experience gathered . at present , it is appropriate to set a 75 year minimum age threshold for all categories of cultural goods . .


### the commission may adopt , by means of implementing acts , the specific modalities for the temporary admission or storage of cultural goods referred to in paragraph 2 . those implementing acts shall be adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 13 . ### the commission may adopt after consultation also at expert level , inter alia with the european parliament and the council , by means of implementing acts , the specific modalities for the temporary admission or storage of cultural goods referred to in paragraph 2 . those implementing acts shall be adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 13 .


### member states shall designate the public authorities competent to issue import licenses in accordance with this article . they shall communicate the details of those authorities as well as any changes in that respect to the commission . ### member states shall designate without delay the public authorities competent to issue import licenses in accordance with this article . they shall communicate the details of those authorities as well as any changes in that respect to the commission .


### member states shall organise training and capacity building activities to ensure the effective implementation of this regulation by the authorities concerned . they may also use awareness - raising campaigns to sensitise in particular buyers of cultural goods . ### member states shall organise training and capacity building activities to ensure the effective implementation of this regulation by the authorities concerned . they shall also use awareness - raising campaigns and establish and make available easily accessible information points and hotlines to sensitise and inform in particular buyers of cultural goods and other stakeholders .


### member states shall define upper and lower thresholds per beneficiary for allowing access to support under points and of paragraph 1 . the lower threshold for support under point of paragraph 1 shall be higher than the upper threshold for support under point of paragraph 1 . support shall be limited to holdings coming under the definition of micro and small enterprises . ### member states shall define upper and lower thresholds per beneficiary for allowing access to support under points and of paragraph 1 . the threshold for support under point of paragraph 1 shall be equal to the threshold for support under point of paragraph 1 . support shall be limited to holdings coming under the definition of micro and small enterprises and shall be capped at an appropriate level to be set by the member state ;


### support under point of article 36 shall only be granted in duly justified cases and where the drop of income exceeds 20 % of the average annual income of the individual farmer in the preceding three - year period or a three - year average based on the preceding five - year period excluding the highest and lowest entry . income for the purposes of point of article 36 shall refer to the sum of revenues the farmer receives from the market , including any form of public support , deducting input costs . payments by the mutual fund to farmers shall compensate for less than 70 % of the income lost in the year the producer becomes eligible to receive this assistance . ### support under point of article 36 shall only be granted in duly justified cases and where the drop of income exceeds 20 % of the average annual income of the individual farmer in the preceding three - year period or a three - year average based on the preceding five - year period excluding the highest and lowest entry . income for the purposes of point of article 36 shall refer to the sum of revenues the farmer receives from the market , including any form of public support , deducting input , overhead and labor costs . payments by the mutual fund to farmers shall compensate for less than 70 % of the income lost in the year the producer becomes eligible to receive this assistance .


### persons who work for an organisation or are in contact with it in the context of their work - related activities are often the first to know about threats or harm to the public interest which arise in this context . by ' blowing the whistle ' they play a key role in exposing and preventing breaches of the law and in safeguarding the welfare of society . however , potential whistleblowers are often discouraged from reporting their concerns or suspicions for fear of retaliation . ### persons who work for an organisation or are in contact with it in the context of their work - related activities are often the first to know about threats or harm to the public interest which arise in this context . by ' blowing the whistle ' they play a key role in exposing , preventing breaches of the law and revealing dangers that may harm the public interest .


### at union level , reports by whistleblowers are one upstream component of enforcement of union law : they feed national and union enforcement systems with information leading to effective detection , investigation and prosecution of breaches of union law . ### at union level , reports by whistleblowers are one upstream component of enforcement of union law : they feed national and union enforcement systems with information leading to effective detection , investigation and prosecution of breaches of union law , thus enhancing transparency and accountability .


### in certain policy areas , breaches of union law may cause serious harm to the public interest , in the sense of creating significant risks for the welfare of society . where weaknesses of enforcement have been identified in those areas , and whistleblowers are in a privileged position to disclose breaches , it is necessary to enhance enforcement by ensuring effective protection of whistleblowers from retaliation and introducing effective reporting channels . ### breaches of union law may cause serious harm to the public interest , in the sense of creating significant risks for the welfare of society . as whistleblowers are usually in a privileged position tod isclose breaches , it is necessary , in order to enhance enforcement of union law , to guarantee safe and effective disclosure of the information and to ensure effective protection of whistleblowers from retaliation .


### whistleblower protection currently provided in the european union is fragmented across member states and uneven across policy areas . the consequences of breaches of union law with cross - border dimension uncovered by whistleblowers illustrate how insufficient protection in one member state not only negatively impacts on the functioning of eu policies in that member state but can also spill over into other member states and the union as a whole . ### whistleblower protection currently provided in the european union is fragmented across member states and uneven across policy areas . cases of breaches of union law with cross - border dimension uncovered by whistleblowers illustrate how insufficient or different protection levels among member states can have a negative impact on the functioning of eu policies .


### accordingly , common minimum standards ensuring effective whistleblower protection should apply in those acts and policy areas where i ) there is a need to strengthen enforcement ; ii ) under - reporting by whistleblowers is a key factor affecting enforcement , and iii ) breaches of union law cause serious harm to the public interest . ### accordingly , common minimum standards ensuring effective whistleblower protection should apply , particularly in those acts and policy areas where i ) there is a potential threat to the public interest ii ) there is a need to strengthen enforcement iii ) under - reporting by whistleblowers is a key factor affecting enforcement .


### persons who report information about threats or harm to the public interest obtained in the context of their work - related activities make use of their right to freedom of expression . the right to freedom of expression , enshrined in article 11 of the charter of fundamental rights of the european union and in article 10 of the european convention on human rights , encompasses media freedom and pluralism . ### persons who report information about threats or harm to the public interest are acting under the right of freedom of information and of expression , enshrined in article 11 of the charter of fundamental rights of the european union and in article 10 of the european convention on human rights , which encompasses media freedom and pluralism .


### effective whistleblower protection implies protecting also further categories of persons who , whilst not relying on their work - related activities economically , may nevertheless suffer retaliation for exposing breaches . retaliation against volunteers and unpaid trainees may take the form of no longer making use of their services , or of giving a negative reference for future employment or otherwise damaging their reputation . ### effective whistleblower protection implies protecting also further categories of persons who , whilst not relying on their work - related activities economically , may nevertheless suffer retaliation for exposing breaches or for supporting whistleblowers reporting . retaliation against volunteers and unpaid trainees may take the form of no longer making use of their services , or of giving a negative reference for future employment or otherwise damaging their reputation .


### effective prevention of breaches of union law requires that protection is also granted to persons who provide information about potential breaches , which have not yet materialised , but are likely to be committed . for the same reasons , protection is warranted also for persons who do not provide positive evidence but raise reasonable concerns or suspicions . at the same time , protection should not apply to the reporting of information which is already in the public domain or of unsubstantiated rumours and hearsay . ### effective prevention of breaches of union law requires that protection is also granted to persons who provide information about potential breaches , which have not yet materialised , but are likely to be committed . for the same reasons , protection is warranted also for persons who do not provide positive evidence but raise reasonable concerns or suspicions as well as to persons complementing information to issues already in the public domain . at the same time , protection should not apply to the reporting of unsubstantiated rumours and hearsay .


### retaliation expresses the close relationship that must exist between the report and the adverse treatment suffered , directly or indirectly , by the reporting person , so that this person can enjoy legal protection . effective protection of reporting persons as a means of enhancing the enforcement of union law requires a broad definition of retaliation , encompassing any act or omission occurring in the work - related context which causes them detriment . ### effective protection of reporting persons as a means of enhancing the enforcement of union law requires a broad definition of retaliation , encompassing any act or omission which causes them detriment . once someone is recognised as a whistleblower , measures , including legal protection , should be taken to protect him or her , to bring to an end any retaliation measures taken against him or her , and to grant the whistleblower full compensation for the prejudice and damage incurred .


### whistleblowers are , in particular , important sources for investigative journalists . providing effective protection to whistleblowers from retaliation increases the legal certainty of whistleblowers and thereby encourages and facilitates whistleblowing also to the media . in this respect , protection of whistleblowers as journalistic sources is crucial for safeguarding the ‘ watchdog’ role of investigative journalism in democratic societies . ### whistleblowers are important sources for journalists , therefore it is essential to create a safe environment , providing them and the media effective protection from retaliation . in this respect protection of whistleblowers is crucial to ensure quality journalism which ultimately contributes to transparency , accountability and the safeguard of fundamental democratic values .


### for the effective detection and prevention of breaches of union law it is vital that the relevant information reaches swiftly those closest to the source of the problem , most able to investigate and with powers to remedy it , where possible . this requires that legal entities in the private and the public sector establish appropriate internal procedures for receiving and following - up on reports . ### for the effective detection and prevention of breaches of union law it could in some cases be appropriate that the relevant information reaches swiftly those closest to the source of the problem , most able to investigate and with powers to remedy it , where possible . this requires that legal entities in the private and the public sector establish appropriate internal procedures for receiving and following - up on reports .


### third parties may also be authorised to receive reports on behalf of private and public entities , provided they offer appropriate guarantees of respect for independence , confidentiality , data protection and secrecy . these can be external reporting platform providers , external counsel or auditors or trade union representatives . ### third parties may also be authorised to receive reports on behalf of private and public entities , provided they offer appropriate guarantees of respect for independence , confidentiality , data protection and secrecy . these can be journalists , external reporting platform providers , external counsel or auditors or trade union representatives .


### the most appropriate persons or departments within a private legal entity to be designated as competent to receive and follow up on reports depend on the structure of the entity , but , in any case , their function should ensure absence of conflict of interest and independence . in smaller entities , this function could be a dual function held by a company officer well placed to report directly to the organisational head , such as a chief compliance or human resources officer , a legal or privacy officer , a chief financial officer , a chief audit executive or a member of the board . ### the most appropriate persons or departments within a private legal entity to be designated as competent to receive and follow up on reports depend on the structure of the entity , but , in any case , their composition and working procedures should ensure absence of conflict of interest and independence .


### persons who are considering reporting breaches of union law should be able to make an informed decision on whether , how and when to report . private and public entities having in place internal reporting procedures shall provide information on these procedures as well as on procedures to report externally to relevant competent authorities . such information must be easily understandable and easily accessible , including , to any extent possible , also to other persons , beyond employees , who come in contact with the entity through their work - related activities , such as service - providers , distributors , suppliers and business partners . for instance , such information may be posted at a visible location accessible to all these persons and to the web of the entity and may also be included in courses and trainings on ethics and integrity . ### persons who are considering reporting breaches of union law should be able to make an informed decision on whether , how , including which kind of channel , and when to report . private and public entities having in place internal reporting procedures shall provide information on these procedures as well as on procedures to report externally . such information must be easily understandable and easily accessible , including , to any extent possible , also to other persons , beyond employees , who come in contact with the relevant information on potential or occurred breaches . for instance , such information may be posted at a visible location accessible to all these persons and to the web of the entity and may also be included in courses and trainings on ethics and integrity .


### effective detection and prevention of breaches of union law requires ensuring that potential whistleblowers can easily and in full confidentiality bring the information they possess to the attention of the relevant competent authorities which are able to investigate and to remedy the problem , where possible . ### effective detection and prevention of breaches of union law requires ensuring that potential whistleblowers can easily and in full confidentiality bring the information they possess to the attention of the public and of relevant competent authorities which are able to investigate and / or to remedy the problem , where possible .


### follow up and feedback should take place within a reasonable timeframe ; this is warranted by the need to promptly address the problem that may be the subject of the report , as well as to avoid unnecessary public disclosures . such timeframe should not exceed three months , but could be extended to six months , where necessary due to the specific circumstances of the case , in particular the nature and complexity of the subject of the report , which may require a lengthy investigation . ### follow up and feedback should take place within the shortest possible timeframe ; this is warranted by the need to promptly address the problem that may be the subject of the report . such timeframe should not exceed three months , but could be extended to six months , where necessary due to the specific circumstances of the case , in particular the nature and complexity of the subject of the report , which may require a lengthy investigation .


### potential whistleblowers who are not sure about how to report or whether they will be protected in the end may be discouraged from reporting . member states should ensure that relevant information is provided in a user - friendly way and is easily accessible to the general public . individual , impartial and confidential advice , free of charge , should be available on , for example , whether the information in question is covered by the applicable rules on whistleblower protection , which reporting channel may best be used and which alternative procedures are available in case the information is not covered by the applicable rules . access to such advice can help ensure that reports are made through the appropriate channels , in a responsible manner and that breaches and wrongdoings are detected in a timely manner or even prevented . ### potential whistleblowers who are not sure about how to report or whether they will be protected in the end may be discouraged from reporting . member states should ensure that relevant information is provided in a user - friendly way and is easily accessible to the general public . individual , impartial and confidential advice , free of charge , should be available . access to such advice can help ensure that reports are made through safe and confidential channels and that breaches and wrongdoings are detected in a timely manner or even prevented .


### with a view to enhancing the enforcement of union law and policies in specific areas , this directive lays down common minimum standards for the protection of persons reporting on the following unlawful activities or abuse of law : ### with a view to safeguarding freedom of information and to enhancing the enforcement of union law and policies , this directive lays down common minimum standard for the protection of persons disclosing information , such as breaches of the law or any wrongful act which undermines or endangers the public interest in all fields of eu competence , including :


### breaches falling within the scope of the union acts set out in the annex as regards the following areas : ### breaches falling within the scope of the union legislation , for example those acts set out in the annex as regards the following areas :


### where specific rules on the reporting of breaches are provided for in sector - specific union acts listed in part 2 of the annex , those rules shall apply . the provisions of this directive shall be applicable for all matters relating to the protection of reporting persons not regulated in those sector - specific union acts . ### where specific rules on the reporting of breaches are provided for in sector - specific union acts listed in part 2 of the annex , those rules shall apply . the provisions of this directive shall be applicable for all matters relating to the protection of reporting persons not regulated in those sector - specific union acts . this paragraph shall apply only in cases where the protection foreseen in sector - specific acts is higher than the one guaranteed by this directive .


### ‘ external reporting’ means provision of information on breaches to the competent authorities ; ### ‘ external reporting’ means provision of information on breaches to the competent authorities or to the media ;


### ‘ work - related context’ means current or past work activities in the public or private sector through which , irrespective of their nature , persons may acquire information on breaches and within which these persons may suffer retaliation if they report them . ### ‘ work - related context’ means current or past work activities in the public or private sector through which , irrespective of their nature , persons may acquire information on breaches ;


### ‘ concerned person’ means a natural or legal person who is referred to in the report or disclosure as a person to whom the breach is attributed or with which he or she is associated ; ### ‘ concerned person’ means a natural or legal person who is referred to in the report or disclosure as a person to whom the breach is attributed or with which he or she is or was associated ;


### ‘ retaliation’ means any threatened or actual act or omission prompted by the internal or external reporting which occurs in a work - related context and causes or may cause unjustified detriment to the reporting person ; ### ‘ retaliation’ means any threatened or actual act or omission prompted by the internal or external reporting which causes or may cause unjustified detriment to the reporting person , to his or her colleagues , personal contacts and to persons facilitating the reporting and disclosure ;


### ‘ competent authority’ means any national authority entitled to receive reports in accordance with chapter iii and designated to carry out the duties provided for in this directive , in particular as regards the follow up of reports . ### ‘ competent authority’ means any authority entitled to receive reports in accordance with chapter iii and designated to carry out the duties provided for in this directive , in particular as regards the follow up of reports .


### obligation to establish internal channels and procedures for reporting and follow - up of reports ### internal channels and procedures for reporting and follow - up of reports


### clear and easily accessible information regarding the procedures and information on how and under what conditions reports can be made externally to competent authorities pursuant to article 13 and , where relevant , to bodies , offices or agencies of the union . ### clear and easily accessible information regarding the procedures and information on how to report externally .


### reporting channels may be operated internally by a person or department designated for that purpose or provided externally by a third party , provided that the safeguards and requirements referred to in point of paragraph 1 are respected . ### reporting channels may be operated internally by a person or department designated for that purpose .


### providing any interested person with information on the procedures for reporting ; ### providing any interested person with information on the procedures for reporting and on the protection to which he or she is entitled ;


### where a person requests a meeting with the dedicated staff members of the competent authority for reporting according to article 7 , competent authorities shall ensure , subject to the consent of the reporting person , that complete and accurate records of the meeting are kept in a durable and retrievable form . a competent authority shall have the right to document the records of the meeting in one of the following ways : ### where a person requests a meeting with the dedicated staff members of the competent authority for reporting according to article 7 , competent authorities shall ensure , subject to the consent of the reporting person or intermediary , that complete and accurate records of the meeting are kept in a durable and retrievable form . a competent authority shall have the right to document the records of the meeting in one of the following ways :


### he or she could not reasonably be expected to use internal and / or external reporting channels due to imminent or manifest danger for the public interest , or to the particular circumstances of the case , or where there is a risk of irreversible damage . ### he or she could not reasonably be expected to use internal and / or external reporting channels due to imminent or manifest relevance for the public interest , or to the particular circumstances of the case , or where there is a risk of irreversible damage .


### failure to convert a temporary employment contract into a permanent one ; ### failure to convert an internship or a temporary employment contract into a permanent one ;


### failure to renew or early termination of the temporary employment contract ; ### failure to renew or early termination of the temporary employment contract or the traineeship agreement ;


### reporting persons shall have access to remedial measures against retaliation as appropriate , including interim relief pending the resolution of legal proceedings , in accordance with the national framework . ### reporting persons and intermediaries shall have access to remedial measures against retaliation as appropriate , including interim relief pending the resolution of legal proceedings , in accordance with the national framework .


### procedures for procurement relating to supplies contracts for defence products and supplies and services contracts for water , energy , transport and postal services and any other contract or service as regulated under union legislation : ### procedures for procurement relating to supplies contracts for defence products and supplies and services contracts for water , energy , transport and postal services and any other contract or service as regulated under union legislation , including :


### review procedures regulated by : ### review procedures regulated , in particular , by :


### rules establishing a regulatory and supervisory framework and consumer and investor protection in the union financial services and capital markets , banking , credit , insurance and re - insurance , occupational or personal pensions , securities , investment funds , payment and investment advice and the services listed in annex i to directive 2013 / 36 / eu of the european parliament and of the council of 26 june 2013 on access to the activity of credit institutions and the prudential supervision of credit institutions and investment firms , amending directive 2002 / 87 / ec and repealing directives 2006 / 48 / ec and 2006 / 49 / ec , as regulated by : ### rules establishing a regulatory and supervisory framework and consumer and investor protection in the union financial services and capital markets , banking , credit , insurance and re - insurance , occupational or personal pensions , securities , investment funds , payment and investment advice and the services listed in annex i to directive 2013 / 36 / eu of the european parliament and of the council of 26 june 2013 on access to the activity of credit institutions and the prudential supervision of credit institutions and investment firms , amending directive 2002 / 87 / ec and repealing directives 2006 / 48 / ec and 2006 / 49 / ec , as regulated in particular by :


### general safety requirements of products placed in the union market as defined and regulated by : ### general safety requirements of products placed in the union market as defined and regulated for example by :


### marketing and use of sensitive and dangerous products , as regulated by : ### marketing and use of sensitive and dangerous products , as regulated for example by :


### safety requirements in the railway sector as regulated by directive 2016 / 798 of the european parliament and of the council of 11 may 2016 on railway safety . ### safety requirements in the railway sector as regulated in particular by directive 2016 / 798 of the european parliament and of the council of 11 may 2016 on railway safety .


### safety requirements in the civil aviation sector as regulated by regulation no 996 / 2010 of the european parliament and of the council of 20 october 2010 on the investigation and prevention of accidents and incidents in civil aviation and repealing directive 94 / 56 / ec . ### safety requirements in the civil aviation sector as regulated in particular by regulation no 996 / 2010 of the european parliament and of the council of 20 october 2010 on the investigation and prevention of accidents and incidents in civil aviation and repealing directive 94 / 56 / ec .


### safety requirements in the road sector as regulated by : ### safety requirements in the road sector as regulated for example by :


### safety requirements in the maritime sector as regulated by : ### safety requirements in the maritime sector as regulated in particular by :


### any criminal offence against the protection of the environment as regulated by directive 2008 / 99 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 19 november 2008 on the protection of the environment through criminal law or any unlawful conduct infringing the legislation set out in the annexes of the directive 2008 / 99 / ec ; ### any criminal offence against the protection of the environment as regulated for example by directive 2008 / 99 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 19 november 2008 on the protection of the environment through criminal law or any unlawful conduct infringing the legislation set out in the annexes of the directive 2008 / 99 / ec ;


### rules on nuclear safety as regulated by : ### rules on nuclear safety as regulated for example by :


### union food and feed law governed by the general principles and requirements as defined by regulation no 178 / 2002 of the european parliament and of the council of 28 january 2002 laying down the general principles and requirements of food law , establishing the european food safety authority and laying down procedures in matters of food safety . ### union food and feed law governed by the general principles and requirements as defined in particular by regulation no 178 / 2002 of the european parliament and of the council of 28 january 2002 laying down the general principles and requirements of food law , establishing the european food safety authority and laying down procedures in matters of food safety .


### animal health as regulated by regulation 2016 / 429 of the european parliament and of the council of 9 march 2016 on transmissible animal diseases and amending and repealing certain acts in the area of animal health . ### animal health as regulated in particular by regulation 2016 / 429 of the european parliament and of the council of 9 march 2016 on transmissible animal diseases and amending and repealing certain acts in the area of animal health .


### protection of animal welfare as regulated by : ### protection of animal welfare as regulated for example by :


### measures setting high standards of quality and safety of organs and substances of human origin , as regulated by : ### measures setting high standards of quality and safety of organs and substances of human origin , as regulated for example by :


### measures setting high standards of quality and safety for medicinal products and devices of medical use as regulated by : ### measures setting high standards of quality and safety for medicinal products and devices of medical use as regulated for example by :


### serious cross - border threats to health as regulated by decision no 1082 / 2013 / eu of the european parliament and of the council of 22 october 2013 on serious cross - border threats to health and repealing decision no 2119 / 98 / ec . ### serious cross - border threats to health as regulated in particular by decision no 1082 / 2013 / eu of the european parliament and of the council of 22 october 2013 on serious cross - border threats to health and repealing decision no 2119 / 98 / ec .


### patients’ rights as regulated by directive 2011 / 24 / eu of the european parliament and of the council of 9 march 2011 on the application of patients’ rights in cross - border healthcare . ### patients’ rights as regulated in particular by directive 2011 / 24 / eu of the european parliament and of the council of 9 march 2011 on the application of patients’ rights in cross - border healthcare .


### manufacture , presentation and sale of tobacco and related products regulated by directive 2014 / 40 / eu of the european parliament and of the council of 3 april 2014 on the approximation of the laws , regulations and administrative provisions of the member states concerning the manufacture , presentation and sale of tobacco and related products and repealing directive 2001 / 37 / ec . ### manufacture , presentation and sale of tobacco and related products regulated in particular by directive 2014 / 40 / eu of the european parliament and of the council of 3 april 2014 on the approximation of the laws , regulations and administrative provisions of the member states concerning the manufacture , presentation and sale of tobacco and related products and repealing directive 2001 / 37 / ec .


### consumer rights and consumer protection as regulated by : ### consumer rights and consumer protection as regulated for example by :


### the credibility of virtual currencies will not rise if they are used for criminal purposes . in this context , anonymity will become more a hindrance than an asset for virtual currencies taking up and their potential benefits to spread . the inclusion of virtual exchange platforms and custodian wallet providers will not entirely address the issue of anonymity attached to virtual currency transactions , as a large part of the virtual currency environment will remain anonymous because users can also transact without exchange platforms or custodian wallet providers . to combat the risks related to the anonymity , national financial intelligence units should be able to associate virtual currency addresses to the identity of the owner of virtual currencies . in addition , the possibility to allow users to self - declare to designated authorities on a voluntary basis should be further assessed . ### to combat the risks related to anonymity , national financial intelligence units should be able to associate virtual currency addresses to the identity of the owner of virtual currencies . in addition , the possibility to allow users to self - declare to designated authorities on a voluntary basis should be further assessed .


### the beneficial ownership threshold set out in article 3 of directive 2015 / 849 does not distinguish between genuine commercial corporate entities and those that have no active business and are mostly used as an intermediary structure between the assets or income and the ultimate beneficial owner . for the latter , the set threshold is easily circumvented , leading to no identification of the natural persons who ultimately own or control the legal entity . in order to better clarify beneficial ownership information as regards intermediary structures that adopt a corporate form , it is necessary to establish a specific threshold from which indication of ownership is inferred . ### the beneficial ownership threshold set out in article 3 of directive 2015 / 849 does not distinguish between genuine commercial corporate entities and those that have no active business and are mostly used as an intermediary structure between the assets or income and the ultimate beneficial owner . for the latter , the set threshold is easily circumvented , leading to no identification of the natural persons who ultimately own or control the legal entity . in order to better clarify beneficial ownership information as regards intermediary structures that adopt a corporate form , it is necessary to establish a specific threshold from which indication of ownership is inferred . that threshold should be low enough to cover most situations .


### providers engaged primarily and professionally in exchange services between virtual currencies and fiat currencies ; ### providers engaged primarily and professionally in exchange services between virtual currencies and legally established currencies ;


### member states shall require that obliged entities apply the customer due diligence measures not only to all new customers but also at appropriate times to existing customers on a risk - sensitive basis , or when the relevant circumstances of a customer change , or when the obliged entity has a duty in the course of the relevant calendar year , to contact the customer for the purpose of reviewing any information related to the beneficial owner , in particular under directive 2011 / 16 / eu . ### member states shall require that obliged entities apply the customer due diligence measures not only to all new customers but also at appropriate times to existing customers on a risk - sensitive basis , or when the relevant circumstances of a customer change , or when the obliged entity has a duty in the course of the relevant calendar year , to contact the customer as soon as possible for the purpose of reviewing any information related to the beneficial owner , in particular under directive 2011 / 16 / eu . member states shall require obliged entities to contact the customer for the purpose of reviewing any information related to the beneficial owner not later than . . . [ one year after the date of the entry into application of this amending directive ] .


### in exceptional circumstances laid down in national law , where the access referred to in paragraphs 4 and 4a would expose the beneficial owner to the risk of fraud , kidnapping , blackmail , violence or intimidation , or where the beneficial owner is a minor or otherwise incapable , member states may provide for an exemption from such access to all or part of the information on the beneficial ownership on a case - by - case basis . ### in exceptional circumstances laid down in national law , where the access referred to in paragraphs 4 and 4a would expose the beneficial owner to the risk of fraud , kidnapping , blackmail , violence or intimidation , or where the beneficial owner is a minor or otherwise incapable , member states may provide for an exemption from such access to all or part of the information on the beneficial ownership on a case - by - case basis . exemptions must be reassessed at regular intervals in order to avoid abuse . where an exemption is granted , this must be clearly indicated in the register and justified in writing .


### ' 1 . member states shall ensure that providers of exchanging services between virtual currencies and fiat currencies , custodian wallet providers , currency exchange and cheque cashing offices , and trust or company service providers are licensed or registered , and that providers of gambling services are regulated . ' ### ' 1 . member states shall ensure that providers of exchanging services between virtual currencies and legally established currencies , custodian wallet providers , currency exchange and cheque cashing offices , and trust or company service providers are licensed or registered , and that providers of gambling services are regulated , including by the implementation of measures on the prevention of the use of the financial system for the purposes of money laundering or terrorist financing . '


### ' 2 . member states shall ensure that the requested fiu ' s prior consent to disseminate the information to competent authorities is granted promptly and to the largest extent possible , regardless of the type of associated predicate offences . the requested fiu shall not refuse its consent to such dissemination unless this would fall beyond the scope of application of its aml / cft provisions , could lead to impairment of a criminal investigation , would be clearly disproportionate to the legitimate interests of a natural or legal person or the member state of the requested fiu , or would otherwise not be in accordance with fundamental principles of national law of that member state . any such refusal to grant consent shall be appropriately explained . ' ### ' 2 . member states shall ensure that the requested fiu ' s prior consent to disseminate the information to competent authorities is granted promptly and to the largest extent possible , regardless of the type of associated predicate offences . the requested fiu shall not refuse its consent to such dissemination unless this would fall beyond the scope of application of its aml / cft provisions , could lead to impairment of a criminal investigation , would be clearly disproportionate to the legitimate interests of a natural or legal person or the member state of the requested fiu , or would otherwise not be in accordance with fundamental principles of national law of that member state . any such refusal to grant consent shall be appropriately explained . the fundamental rights of all parties , including the right to data protection , must always be fully respected . '


### investments in an economic activity that contributes to an environmental objective , including an environmentally sustainable investment as defined in article 2 of [ po : please insert reference to regulation on the establishment of a framework to facilitate sustainable investment ] ; ### investments in an economic activity that contributes to an environmental objective as defined in article 2 of [ po : please insert reference to regulation on the establishment of a framework to facilitate sustainable investment ] , and which does not harm a social objective in accordance with article 2 , and which is in accordance with good governance practices as referred to in article 2 ;


### investments in companies following good governance practices , and in particular companies with sound management structures , employee relations , remuneration of relevant staff and tax compliance ; ### investments that meet the conditions of article 2 or article 2 and are done in companies following good governance practices , in particular with sound and transparent management structures , employee relations , transparent remuneration policies and tax compliance ;


### for the purposes of identifying and tracing each assembled firearm , member states shall , at the time of manufacture of each firearm or at the time of import to the union , require a unique marking including the name of the manufacturer , the country or place of manufacture , the serial number and the year of manufacture , if not already part of the serial number . this shall be without prejudice to the affixing of the manufacturer ' s trademark . ### for the purpose of identifying and tracing each assembled firearm and each essential component , member states shall , at the time of manufacture of each firearm and each essential component or at the time of its being manufactured or imported into the union , require a unique marking including the name of the manufacturer , the country or place of manufacture , the serial number and the year of manufacture , if not already part of the serial number . this shall be without prejudice to the affixing of the manufacturer ' s trademark . this requirement shall not apply to firearms manufactured before the entry into force of this amending directive .


### to strengthen the competitiveness of the union space industry and gain capacities in designing , building and operating its own systems , the union should support the creation , growth , and development of the entire space industry . the emergence of a business - and innovation - friendly model should be supported at european , regional and national levels by establishing space hubs that bring together the space , digital and user sectors . the union should foster the expansion of union - based space companies to help them succeed , including by supporting them in accessing risk finance in view of the lack , within the union , of appropriate access to private equity for space start - ups and by creating innovation partnerships . ### to strengthen the competitiveness of the union space industry and gain capacities in designing , building and operating its own systems , the union should support the creation , growth , and development of the entire space industry . the emergence of a business - and innovation - friendly model should be supported at european , regional and national levels especially , but not only , through initiatives like space hubs that bring together the space , digital and user sectors . space hubs should work in cooperation with the digital innovation hubs to foster entrepreneurship and skills . the union should foster the expansion of european space companies to help them succeed , including by supporting them in accessing risk finance in view of the lack , within the union , of appropriate access to private equity for space start - ups and by creating innovation partnerships .


### with regard to data acquisition , the activities under copernicus should aim at completing and maintaining the existing space infrastructure , preparing the long - term replacement of the satellites at the end of their lifetime , as well as initiating new missions addressing new observation systems to support meeting the challenge of global climate change . activities under copernicus should expand their global monitoring coverage over the polar regions and support environmental compliance assurance , statutory environmental monitoring and reporting and innovative environmental applications . in doing so , copernicus should leverage and take maximum advantage of the investments made under the previous funding period , while exploring new operational and business models to further complement the copernicus capacities . copernicus should also build on successful partnerships with member states to further develop its security dimension under appropriate governance mechanisms , in order to respond to evolving user needs in the security domain . ### with regard to data acquisition , the activities under copernicus should aim at completing and maintaining the existing space and ground segment infrastructure , preparing the long - term replacement of the satellites at the end of their lifetime , as well as initiating new missions , whose feasibility is currently being studied by european space agency , addressing new observation systems to support meeting the challenge of global climate change . activities under copernicus should expand their global monitoring coverage over the polar regions and support environmental compliance assurance , statutory environmental monitoring and reporting and innovative environmental applications . in doing so , copernicus should leverage and take maximum advantage of the investments made under the previous funding period , while exploring new operational and business models to further complement the copernicus capacities . copernicus should also build on successful partnerships with member states to further develop its security dimension under appropriate governance mechanisms , in order to respond to evolving user needs in the security domain .


### extreme and major space weather events may threaten the safety of citizens and disrupt the operations of space - based and ground - based infrastructure . a space weather function should therefore be established as part the programme with an aim of assessing the space weather risks and corresponding user needs , raising the awareness of space weather risks , ensuring the delivery of user - driven space weather services , and improving member stares capabilities to produce space weather service . the commission should prioritise the sectors to which the operational space weather services are to be provided taking into account the user needs , risks and technological readiness . in the long term , the needs of other sectors may be addressed . the delivery of services at union level according to the users ' needs will require targeted , coordinated and continued research and development activities to support space weather services evolution . the delivery of the space weather services should build on the existing national and union capabilities and enable a broad participation of member states and involvement of the private sector . ### extreme and major space weather events may threaten the safety of citizens and disrupt the operations of space - based and ground - based infrastructure . a space weather function should therefore be established as part the programme with an aim of assessing the space weather risks and corresponding user needs , raising the awareness of space weather risks , ensuring the delivery of user - driven space weather services , and improving member stares capabilities to produce space weather service . the commission should prioritise the sectors to which the operational space weather services are to be provided taking into account the user needs , risks and technological readiness . in the long term , the needs of other sectors may be addressed . the delivery of services at union level according to the users ' needs will require targeted , coordinated and continued research and development activities to support space weather services evolution . the delivery of the space weather services should build on the existing national , esa and union capabilities and enable a broad participation of member states and involvement of the private sector .


### absence of guarantee ### guarantee


### the services , data and information provided by the programme ' s components shall be provided without any express or implied guarantee as regards their quality , accuracy , availability , reliability , speed and suitability for any purpose . to that aim , the commission shall take the necessary steps to ensure that the users of those services , data and information are informed , in an appropriate manner , of the absence of any such guarantee . ### the services , data and information provided by the programme ' s components shall be provided without any express or implied guarantee as regards their quality , accuracy , availability , reliability , speed and suitability for any purpose , unless such guarantee is required by applicable union law for the provision of the concerned services . to that aim , the commission shall take the necessary steps to ensure that the users of those services , data and information are informed , in an appropriate manner , of the absence of any such guarantee .


### the development , construction , and operations of the ground segment infrastructure ; ### the development , construction , and operations of the ground segment and space segment&#160 ; infrastructure ;


### this directive establishes a common framework for the promotion of energy from renewable sources . it sets a binding union target for the overall share of energy from renewable sources in gross final consumption of energy in 2030 . it also lays down rules on financial support to electricity produced from renewable sources , self - consumption of renewable electricity , and renewable energy use in the heating and cooling and transport sectors , regional cooperation between member states and with third countries , guarantees of origin , administrative procedures and information and training . it establishes sustainability and greenhouse gas emissions saving criteria for biofuels , bioliquids and biomass fuels . ### this directive establishes a common framework for the promotion of energy from renewable sources . it sets a minimum binding target for the union and the member states for the overall share of energy from renewable sources in gross final consumption of energy in 2030 . it also lays down rules on financial support to electricity produced from renewable sources , self - consumption of renewable electricity , measures against energy poverty , the creation of quality jobs in the sector , and renewable energy use in the heating and cooling and transport sectors , regional cooperation between member states and with third countries , guarantees of origin , administrative procedures , information and training and access to the electricity grid for renewable energy sources . it establishes sustainability and greenhouse gas emissions saving criteria for biofuels , bioliquids and biomass fuels .


### member states shall ensure that support for renewable electricity is granted in an open , transparent , competitive , non - discriminatory and cost - effective manner . ### member states shall ensure that support for renewable electricity is granted in an open , transparent and cost - effective manner .


### member states shall open support for electricity generated from renewable sources to generators located in other member states under the conditions laid down in this article . ### member states shall open support for electricity generated from renewable sources to generators located in other member states where this is necessary to contribute to meeting the objectives set for renewable energy and climate change policies .


### member states shall ensure that any national rules concerning the authorisation , certification and licensing procedures that are applied to plants and associated transmission and distribution network infrastructures for the production of electricity , heating or cooling from renewable energy sources , and to the process of transformation of biomass into biofuels or other energy products , are proportionate and necessary . ### member states shall ensure that any national rules concerning the authorisation , certification and licensing procedures that are applied to plants and associated transmission and distribution network infrastructures for the production of electricity , heating or cooling from renewable energy sources , and to the process of transformation of biomass into biofuels or other energy products , are proportionate , necessary and simplified , giving preference to public entities , renewable energy consumers and self - consumers . to this end , member states should draw up simple administrative rules , as required by article 16 of this directive .


### on 16 september 2016 in bratislava , leaders of twenty - seven member states stressed their determination to provide better opportunities for youth . in the rome declaration signed on 25 march 2017 , leaders of twenty - seven member states and of the european council , the european parliament and the european commission pledged to work towards a union where young people receive the best education and training and can study and find jobs across the union ; a union which preserves our cultural heritage and promotes cultural diversity . ### on 16 september 2016 in bratislava , leaders of twenty - seven member states stressed their determination to provide better opportunities for youth . in the rome declaration signed on 25 march 2017 , leaders of twenty - seven member states and of the european council , the european parliament and the european commission pledged to work towards a union where young people receive the best education and training and can work , learn , exchange , study and find jobs across the union ; a union which preserves our cultural heritage and promotes solidarity , democracy and cultural diversity .


### the programme should contribute to strengthening the union ' s innovation capacity notably by supporting mobility and cooperation activities that foster the development of competences in forward - looking study fields or disciplines such as science , technology , engineering and mathematics , climate change , the environment , clean energy , artificial intelligence , robotics , data analysis and arts / design , to help people develop knowledge , skills and competences needed for the future . ### the programme should contribute to strengthening the union ' s innovation capacity notably by supporting mobility and cooperation activities that foster the development of competences in forward - looking study fields or disciplines such as science , technology , engineering and mathematics , climate change , the environment , clean energy , artificial intelligence , robotics , data analysis and arts / design , to help people develop knowledge , skills and competences needed for the future . to this end , particular measures should address women and girls , who are still under - represented in these disciplines in some countries .


### the programme should be more inclusive by improving its outreach to those with fewer opportunities , including through more flexible learning mobility formats , and by fostering participation of small organisations , in particular newcomers and community - based grassroots organisations that work directly with disadvantaged learners of all ages . virtual formats , such as virtual cooperation , blended and virtual mobility , should be promoted to reach more participants , in particular those with fewer opportunities and those for whom moving physically to a country other than their country of residence would be an obstacle . ### the programme should be more inclusive by improving its outreach to those with fewer opportunities , including through more flexible mobility formats , simplified administrative procedures , targeting of beneficiary organisations working with groups under - represented in erasmus + , youth - friendly and clear information and communication about the programme and by fostering and supporting the participation of local organisations and small organisations , in particular newcomers , youth organisations , volunteer - based and community - based grassroots organisations that work directly with learners with fewer opportunities of all ages , and organisations working with and supporting people from marginalised groups , such as people with an ethnic minority background , people with disabilities and lgbti people . virtual formats , such as virtual cooperation , blended and virtual mobility , should be promoted to reach more participants and complement the mobility experience .


### the programme should reinforce existing learning mobility opportunities , notably in those sectors where the programme could have the biggest efficiency gains , to broaden its reach and meet the high unmet demand . this should be done notably by increasing and facilitating mobility activities for higher education students , school pupils and learners in vocational education and training . mobility of low - skilled adult learners should be embedded in partnerships for cooperation . mobility opportunities for youth participating in non - formal learning activities should also be extended to reach more young people . mobility of staff in education , training , youth and sport should also be reinforced , considering its leverage effect . in line with the vision of a true european education area , the programme should also boost mobility and exchanges and promote student participation in educational and cultural activities by supporting digitalisation of processes , such as the european student card . this initiative can be an important step in making mobility for all a reality first by enabling higher education institutions to send and receive more exchange students while still enhancing quality in student mobility and also by facilitating students ' access to various services before arriving at the institution abroad . ### the programme should reinforce existing learning mobility opportunities , notably in those sectors where the programme could have the biggest efficiency gains , to broaden its reach and meet the high unmet demand . this should be done notably by increasing and facilitating mobility activities for under - represented groups , especially young people not in formal education and learners in vocational education and training , as well as school pupils . higher education students could continue to be targeted at the existing high level . mobility of learners with fewer opportunities should be embedded in partnerships for cooperation . mobility opportunities for youth participating in non - formal or informal learning activities should also be fundamentally extended to reach more young people , especially newcomers , those with fewer opportunities and hard - to - reach population groups . mobility of staff in education , training , youth and sport should also be reinforced , considering its leverage effect . in line with the vision of a true european education area , the programme should also boost mobility and exchanges and promote student participation in educational and cultural activities by supporting digitalisation of processes , such as the european student card . this initiative can be an important step in making mobility for all a reality first by enabling higher education institutions to send and receive more exchange students while still enhancing quality in student mobility and also by facilitating students ' access to various services before arriving at the institution abroad .


### the programme should support measures that enhance the cooperation between institutions and organisations active in education , training , youth and sport , recognising their fundamental role in equipping individuals with the knowledge , skills and competences needed in a changing world as well as to adequately fulfil the potential for innovation , creativity and entrepreneurship , in particular within the digital economy . ### the programme should support measures that enhance the cooperation between institutions and organisations active in education , training , youth and sport , recognising their fundamental role in equipping individuals with the knowledge , skills and competences needed in a changing world as well as to adequately fulfil the potential for innovation , creativity and entrepreneurship , in particular within the digital economy . to this end , effective cooperation between all relevant stakeholders at all levels of the programme’s implementation should be ensured .


### the programme should contribute to facilitating transparency and recognition of skills and qualifications , as well as the transfer of credits or units of learning outcomes , to foster quality assurance and to support validation of non - formal and informal learning , skills management and guidance . in this regard , the programme should also provide support to contact points and networks at national and union level that facilitate cross - european exchanges as well as the development of flexible learning pathways between different fields of education , training and youth and across formal and non - formal settings . ### the programme should contribute to facilitating transparency and automatic recognition of skills , competences , qualifications , and diplomas as well as the transfer of credits or units of learning outcomes , to foster quality assurance and to support validation of non - formal and informal learning , skills management and guidance . in this regard , the programme should also provide support to contact points and networks at national and union level that facilitate cross - european exchanges as well as the development of flexible learning pathways between different fields of education , training and youth and across formal and non - formal settings .


### in order to ensure efficient and effective implementation of this regulation , the programme should make maximum use of delivery mechanisms already in place . the implementation of the programme should therefore be entrusted to the commission , and to national agencies . where feasible , and in order to maximise efficiency , the national agencies should be the same as the one designated for the management of the predecessor programme . the scope of the ex - ante compliance assessment should be limited to the requirements that are new and specific to the programme , unless justified , such as in case of serious shortcomings or underperformance on the part of the national agency concerned . ### in order to ensure efficient , and effective implementation of this regulation , the programme should make maximum use of delivery mechanisms already in place . the implementation of the programme should therefore be entrusted to the commission , and to national agencies , which should ensure consistent and coherent application of the programme rules across the eu countries and proper outreach to and cooperation with all target groups across the wide spectrum of stakeholders . where feasible , and in order to maximise efficiency , the national agency should be the same as the one designated for the management of the predecessor programme . the scope of ex - ante compliance assessment should be limited to the requirements that are new and specific to the programme , unless justified , such as in case of serious shortcomings or under - performance on the part of the national agency concerned .


### in order to simplify requirements for beneficiaries , simplified grants in the form of lump - sums , unit - costs and flat - rate funding should be used to the maximum possible extent . the simplified grants to support the mobility actions of the programme , as defined by the commission , should take into account the living and subsistence costs of the host country . the commission and national agencies of the sending countries should have the possibility to adjust these simplified grants on the basis of objective criteria , in particular to ensure access to people with fewer opportunities . in accordance with national law , member states should also be encouraged to exempt those grants from any taxes and social levies . the same exemption should apply to public or private entities awarding such financial support to the individuals concerned . ### in order to simplify requirements for beneficiaries , simplified grants in the form of lump - sums , unit - costs and flat - rate funding should be used to the maximum possible extent . the simplified grants to support the mobility actions of the programme , as defined by the commission , should be regularly reviewed and adjusted to the living and subsistence costs of the host country and regions . the commission and national agencies of the sending countries should have the possibility to adjust these simplified grants on the basis of objective criteria , in particular to ensure access to people with fewer opportunities . in accordance with national law , member states should also exempt those grants from any taxes and social levies . the same exemption should apply to public or private entities awarding such financial support to the individuals concerned .


### ' lifelong learning ' means learning in all its forms taking place at all stages in life , including early childhood education and care , general education , vocational education and training , higher education , and adult education , and resulting in an improvement in knowledge , skills and attitudes or participation in society in a personal , civic , cultural , social and / or employment - related perspective , including the provision of counselling and guidance services ; ### ' lifelong learning ' means learning in all its forms taking place at all stages in life , including early childhood education and care , general education , vocational education and training , higher education , and adult education , and resulting in an improvement in knowledge , skills and attitudes or participation in society , sensitivity to global and local environmental and social issues , in a personal , civic , cultural , social and / or employment - related perspective , including the provision of counselling and guidance services ;


### ' learning mobility ' means moving physically to a country other than the country of residence , in order to undertake study , training or non - formal or informal learning ; it may be accompanied by measures such as language support and training and / or be complemented by online learning and virtual cooperation . in some specific cases , it may take the form of learning through the use of information technology and communications tools ; ### ‘ learning mobility ' means moving physically to country other than the country of residence , in order to undertake study , training or non - formal or informal learning ; it is fully accessible , inclusive and adequately funded and shall be accompanied by measures such as language support , including for national sign languages , and training and / or be complemented by accessible online learning of and virtual cooperation regarding all eu spoken and signed languages . in some specific cases , it may take the form of learning through the use of accessible information technology and accessible communications tools ;


### ' learning mobility ' means moving physically to a country other than the country of residence , in order to undertake study , training or non - formal or informal learning ; it may be accompanied by measures such as language support and training and / or be complemented by online learning and virtual cooperation . in some specific cases , it may take the form of learning through the use of information technology and communications tools ; ### ' learning mobility ' means moving physically to a country other than the country of residence , in order to undertake study , training or non - formal or informal learning , including teaching or professional development activities . it may be accompanied by measures such as language support and training and / or be complemented by online learning and virtual cooperation . in some specific cases , it may take the form of learning through the use of information technology and communication tools , but not to the exclusion of physical mobility .


### ‘ staff’ means any person who , on either a professional or a voluntary basis , is involved in education , training or non - formal learning , and may include professors , teachers , trainers , school leaders , youth workers , sport coaches , non - educational staff and other practitioners involved in promoting learning ; ### ‘ staff’ means any person who , on either a professional or a voluntary basis , is involved in education at all levels , training or non - formal learning , and may include professors , teachers , trainers , school leaders , youth workers , sport coaches , non - educational staff and other practitioners involved in promoting learning ;


### ‘ people with fewer opportunities’ means people facing obstacles that prevent them from having effective access to opportunities under the programme for economic , social , cultural , geographical or health reasons , a migrant background or for reasons such as disability and educational difficulties ; ### ‘ people with fewer opportunities’ means people who need additional support due to their disadvantage compared to their peers because of various obstacles , for example disability , health problems , educational difficulties , cultural differences , economic , social and geographical obstacles , including people from marginalised communities or at risk of facing discrimination based on any of the grounds enshrined in article 21 of the charter of fundamental rights of the european union .


### partnerships for innovation to strengthen europe’s innovation capacity ; ### partnerships for innovation , especially sustainable and green innovation to strengthen europe’s sustainable innovation capacity ;


### measures that contribute to the qualitative and inclusive implementation of the programme ; ### measures that contribute to the high - quality and socially more inclusive and environmentally sustainable implementation of the programme ;


### in the union , 80 to 85 % of marine litter , measured as beach litter counts , is plastic , with single - use plastic items representing 50 % and fishing - related items representing 27 % . single - use plastics products include a diverse range of commonly used fast - moving consumer products that are discarded after having been used once for the purpose for which they were provided , are rarely recycled , and are prone to littering . a significant proportion of the fishing gear placed on the market is not collected for treatment . single - use plastic products and fishing gear containing plastic are therefore a particularly serious problem in the context of marine litter and pose a severe risk to marine ecosystems , biodiversity and , potentially , to human health and are damaging activities such as tourism , fisheries and shipping . ### in the union , 80 to 85 % of marine litter , measured as beach litter counts , is plastic , with single - use plastic items representing 50 % and fishing - related items representing 27 % . single - use plastics products include a diverse range of commonly used , fast - moving consumer products that are discarded after having been used once for the purpose for which they were provided , are rarely recycled , and end up as litter . a significant proportion of the fishing gear placed on the market is not collected for treatment . single - use plastic products and fishing gear containing plastic and microplastics are therefore a particularly serious problem in the context of marine litter and pose a severe risk to marine ecosystems , biodiversity and , potentially , to human health and are damaging activities such as tourism , fisheries and shipping .


### to focus efforts where they are most needed , this directive should only cover the most found single - use plastics products , which are estimated to represent around 86% of the single - use plastics found , in counts , on beaches in the union . ### to focus efforts where they are most needed , this directive should cover the most commonly found single - use plastics products , which are estimated to represent around 86% of the single - use plastics found , in counts , on beaches in the union , and also fishing gear . the transition to a circular economy will necessitate a reduction in the overall use of single use plastic .


### with regard to single - use plastic products for which there are no readily available suitable and more sustainable alternatives , member states should , in line with the polluter pays principle , also introduce extended producer responsibility schemes to cover the costs of waste management and clean - up of litter as well as the costs of awareness - raising measures to prevent and reduce such litter . ### with regard to single - use plastic products for which there are no readily available suitable and more sustainable alternatives at present , member states should , in line with the polluter pays principle , also introduce extended producer responsibility schemes to cover the costs of waste management and clean - up of litter as well as the costs of awareness - raising measures to prevent and reduce such litter .


### pursuant to paragraph 22 of the interinstitutional agreement between the european parliament , the council of the european union and the european commission on better law - making of 13 april 201648 , the commission should carry out an evaluation of this directive . that evaluation should be based on experience gathered and data collected during the implementation of this directive and data collected under directive 2008 / 56 / ec or directive 2008 / 98 / ec . the evaluation should provide the basis for an assessment of possible further measures and an assessment whether , in view of monitoring of marine litter in the union , the annex listing single - use plastic products needs to be reviewed . the evaluation should also consider whether scientific and technical progress that has taken place in the meantime , including the development of biodegradable materials and the development of criteria or a standard for biodegradability of plastics in the marine environment , as foreseen in the european plastics strategy , allows the setting of a standard for biodegradation of certain single - use plastic products in the marine environment . that standard would include a standard to test if , as a result of physical and biological decomposition in the marine environment , plastics would fully decompose into carbon dioxide , biomass and water within a timescale short enough for the plastics not to be harmful for marine life and not lead to an accumulation of plastics in the environment . if that is the case , single - use plastic products that meet such a standard could be exempted from the prohibition on placing on the market . while the european strategy for plastics already envisages action in this area , it also recognises the challenges in relation to determining a regulatory framework for plastics with biodegradable properties due to different marine conditions across seas . _________________ 48 oj l 123 , 12 . 5 . 2016 , p . 1 . ### pursuant to paragraph 22 of the interinstitutional agreement between the european parliament , the council of the european union and the european commission on better law - making of 13 april 201648 , the commission should carry out an evaluation of this directive . that evaluation should be based on experience gathered and data collected during the implementation of this directive and data collected under directive 2008 / 56 / ec or directive 2008 / 98 / ec . the evaluation should provide the basis for an assessment of possible further measures and an assessment whether , in view of monitoring of marine litter in the union , the annex listing single - use plastic products needs to be reviewed in order to expand the list of single use plastic items . there should be no consideration of biodegradability in reviewing the annex . _________________ 48 oj l 123 , 12 . 5 . 2016 , p . 1 .


### the objective of this directive is to prevent and reduce the impact of certain plastic products on the environment , in particular the aquatic environment , and on human health as well as to promote the transition to a circular economy with innovative business models , products and materials , thus also contributing to the efficient functioning of the internal market . ### the objective of this directive is to prevent and significantly reduce the impact of plastics on the environment , in particular the aquatic environment , and on human health , as well as to promote the transition to a circular economy through a reduction in production and consumption of single use plastics , with sustainable business models , products and materials .


### ' producer ' means any natural or legal person that , irrespective of the selling technique used , including distance contracts within the meaning of directive 2011 / 83 / eu of the european parliament and of the council of 25 october 201150 , places on the market single - use plastic products and fishing gear containing plastic except persons carrying out fishing activities as defined in article 4 of regulation no 1380 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council51 ; _________________ 50 directive 2011 / 83 / eu of the european parliament and of the council of 25 october 2011 on consumer rights , amending council directive 93 / 13 / eec and directive 1999 / 44 / ec of the european parliament and of the council and repealing council directive 85 / 577 / eec and directive 97 / 7 / ec of the european parliament and of the council . 51 regulation no 1380 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 11 december 2013 on the common fisheries policy , amending council regulations no 1954 / 2003 and no 1224 / 2009 and repealing council regulations no 2371 / 2002 and no 639 / 2004 and council decision 2004 / 585 / ec . ### ' producer ' means any natural or legal person that manufactures , processes , treats , sells or imports single - use plastic products or fishing gear containing plastic as understood in article 8 of directive 2008 / 98 . a producer may be qualified as such irrespective of the selling technique used , including distance contracts within the meaning of directive 2011 / 83 / eu of the european parliament and of the council of 25 october 201150 , places on the market single - use plastic products and fishing gear containing plastic except persons carrying out fishing activities as defined in article 4 of regulation no 1380 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council51 ; _________________ 50 directive 2011 / 83 / eu of the european parliament and of the council of 25 october 2011 on consumer rights , amending council directive 93 / 13 / eec and directive 1999 / 44 / ec of the european parliament and of the council and repealing council directive 85 / 577 / eec and directive 97 / 7 / ec of the european parliament and of the council . 51 regulation no 1380 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 11 december 2013 on the common fisheries policy , amending council regulations no 1954 / 2003 and no 1224 / 2009 and repealing council regulations no 2371 / 2002 and no 639 / 2004 and council decision 2004 / 585 / ec .


### article 3 and and articles 4 , 6 , 8 , 9 , 14 , 19 and 21 shall not apply to undertakings engaged in the occupation of road haulage operator solely by means of motor vehicles with a permissible laden mass not exceeding 3 . 5 tonnes or combinations of vehicles with a permissible laden mass not exceeding 3 . 5 tonnes . ### article 3 and articles 8 and 21 shall not apply to undertakings engaged in the occupation of road haulage operator solely by means of motor vehicles with a permissible laden mass not exceeding 3 . 5 tonnes or combinations of vehicles with a permissible laden mass not exceeding 3 . 5 tonnes .


### requirement to use take - back schemes for veterinary medicinal products for the disposal of unused veterinary medicinal products or waste materials derived from the use of such products and , if appropriate , additional precautions as regarding hazardous waste disposal of unused veterinary medicinal products or waste materials derived from the use of such products ; ### requirement to use take - back schemes for veterinary medicinal products for the disposal of veterinary medicinal products in accordance with applicable law ;


### centralised marketing authorisations shall be granted by the commission in accordance with this section . they shall be valid throughout the union . ### centralised marketing authorisations shall be granted by the commission in accordance with this section . they shall be valid throughout the union and considered the priority procedure .


### within 90 days of receipt of a valid application , the reference member state shall prepare an updated assessment report for the veterinary medicinal product . the updated assessment report together with the approved summary of the product characteristics and the text to appear in the labelling and package leaflet shall be forwarded to all member states and the applicant , together with the list of member states where the applicant seeks to obtain recognition of the marketing authorisation . ### within 45 days of receipt of a valid application , the reference member state shall prepare an updated assessment report for the veterinary medicinal product . the updated assessment report together with the approved summary of the product characteristics and the text to appear in the labelling and package leaflet shall be forwarded to all member states concerned and the applicant , together with the list of member states where the applicant seeks to obtain recognition of the marketing authorisation .


### a competent authority may delegate any of the tasks entrusted to it as referred to in article 79 to a competent authority in another member state subject to the written agreement of the latter . ### a competent authority may delegate any of the tasks entrusted to it as referred to in article 79 to a competent public authority in another member state subject to the written agreement of the latter .


### the establishment of an ees requires adapting the procedures for checking persons when crossing the external borders laid down in regulation 2016 / 399 . in particular , the ees aims to abolish on entry and exit the stamping of the travel documents of third country nationals admitted for a stay [ or for a stay on the basis of a touring visa ] by replacing it by the electronic recording of the entry and exit directly in the ees . however , stamping of travel document on refusal of entry of a third country national is maintained since it concerns higher risk travellers . furthermore , the establishment of the interoperability between the ees and the visa information system needs to be taken into account in the border checks procedures . lastly , the ees opens the possibility to use new technologies for the border crossings of short stay travellers . ### the establishment of an ees requires adapting the procedures for checking persons when crossing the external borders laid down in regulation 2016 / 399 . in particular , the ees aims to abolish on entry and exit the stamping of the travel documents of third country nationals admitted for a stay by replacing it by the electronic recording of the entry and exit directly in the ees . lastly , the ees opens the possibility to use new technologies for the border crossings of short stay travellers . use of these technologies should take into account the risks their use entail and their alleged dependability in terms of the fundamental rights of the persons concerned and this regardless of the situation of the travellers .