### the european economic and social committee welcomed the communication on “digitising european industry” and considered it , together with accompanying documents , as “the first step in a vast european work programme to be carried out in close mutual cooperation between all interested public and private parties” . 72 _________________ 72 ### the european economic and social committee welcomed the communication on “digitising european industry” and considered it , together with accompanying documents , as “the first step in a vast european work programme to be carried out in close mutual cooperation between all interested public and private parties” . 72 the economic and social committee also noted [ 1 ] “that it remains to acknowledge most of the repercussions that digitisation has for employment purposes , which , therefore , are subject to poor treatment in the corresponding policies” . likewise , the aforementioned communication pointed out the need to improve collective bargaining and the participation of workers in order to counteract the increase in income inequalities caused by digitisation . [ 1 ] opinion of the european economic and social committee on “the effects of digitisation on the services and employment sector in the framework of industrial changes” . .


### ensure that the public sector and areas of public interests , such as health and care , education , judiciary , transport , energy , environment , cultural and creative sectors , can deploy and access state - of - the - art digital technologies , in particular high performance computing , artificial intelligence and cybersecurity ; ### ensure that the public sector and areas of public interests , such as health and care , education , judiciary , transport , energy , environment , cultural and creative sectors , can deploy and access state - of - the - art digital technologies , in particular high performance computing , artificial intelligence and cybersecurity ; guaranteeing that workers from the sectors referred to together with their labour organizations , participate from the beginning in the design and implementation of digital technologies ;


### ensure a continuous capacity at the union level to observe , analyse and adapt to fast - evolving digital trends , as well as sharing and mainstreaming best practices ; ### ensure a continuous capacity at the union level to observe , analyse and adapt to fast - evolving digital trends , as well as sharing and mainstreaming best practices ; specifically , ask eurofound , as a specialised agency , to incorporate a biannual study on the impact of digitalisation in the labour sphere ;


### actions carried out under the programme shall comply with the applicable security rules and in particular the protection of the classified information against unauthorised disclosure , including compliance with any relevant national and union law . in case of actions carried out outside the union , it is necessary that , in addition to the compliance with above requirements , a security agreement must have been concluded between the union and the third country in which the activity is conducted . ### actions carried out under the programme shall comply with the applicable security rules and in particular the protection of the classified information against unauthorised disclosure , including compliance with any relevant national and union law .


### the need to ensure by the initial network a coverage of the needs of industry and areas of public interest and a comprehensive and balanced geographical coverage . ### the need to ensure by the initial network a coverage of the needs of industry and areas of public interest and a comprehensive and balanced geographical coverage . this means a specific concern so that the digital divide in geographical terms does not increase .


### additional digital innovation hubs shall be selected on the basis of an open and competitive process , in such a way to ensure the widest geographical coverage across europe . the number of entities of the network shall be proportional to the population of a given member states and there shall be at least one digital innovation hub per member state . to address the specific constraints faced by the eu outermost regions , specific entities may be nominated to cover their needs . ### additional digital innovation hubs shall be selected on the basis of an open , transparent and competitive process , in such a way to ensure the widest geographical coverage across europe . the number of entities of the network shall be proportional to the population of a given member states and there shall be at least one digital innovation hub per member state . to address the specific constraints faced by the eu outermost regions , specific entities may be nominated to cover their needs .


### the commission shall communicate the conclusions of the evaluations accompanied by its observations , to the european parliament , the council , the european economic and social committee and the committee of the regions . ### the commission shall communicate the conclusions of the evaluations accompanied by its observations , to the european parliament , the council , the european economic and social committee and the committee of the regions . in particular , the commission will submit its mid - term evaluation for consideration by parliament .


### the regulation lays down security of supply standards that are sufficiently harmonised and cover at least the situation that occurred in january 2009 when gas supply from russia was disrupted . these standards take account of the difference between member states , public service obligations and customer protection measures , as referred to in article 3 of directive 2009 / 73 / ec . security of supply standards should be stable , so as to provide the necessary legal certainty , should be clearly defined , and should not impose unreasonable and disproportionate burdens on natural gas undertakings . they should also guarantee equal access for the union natural gas undertakings to national customers . ### the regulation lays down security of supply standards that are sufficiently harmonised and cover at least the situation that occurred in january 2009 when gas supply from russia was disrupted . these standards take account of the difference between member states , public service obligations and customer protection measures , as referred to in article 3 of directive 2009 / 73 / ec . security of supply standards should be stable , so as to provide the necessary legal certainty .


### the roles and responsibilities of all natural gas undertakings and competent authorities should therefore be defined precisely in order to keep the internal gas market functioning properly , particularly in the event of supply disruptions and crises . such roles and responsibilities should be established in such a way as to ensure that a three - level approach is respected which would involve first the relevant natural gas undertakings and industry , then member states at national or regional level , and then the union . this regulation should enable natural gas undertakings and customers to rely on market mechanisms for as long as possible when coping with disruptions . however , it should also provide for mechanisms that can be deployed when markets alone are no longer able to deal adequately with a gas supply disruption . ### the roles and responsibilities of all natural gas undertakings and competent authorities should therefore be defined precisely in order to keep the internal gas market functioning under the supervision of national regulatory authorities , particularly in the event of supply disruptions and crises . such roles and responsibilities should be established in such a way as to ensure that a three - level approach is respected which would involve first the relevant natural gas undertakings and industry , then member states at national or regional level , and then the union . this regulation should as a priority provide for mechanisms that can be deployed when markets alone are no longer able to deal adequately with a gas supply disruption .


### this regulation establishes provisions aimed at safeguarding the security of gas supply by ensuring the proper and continuous functioning of the internal market in natural gas , by allowing for exceptional measures to be implemented when the market can no longer deliver the required gas supplies and by providing for a clear definition and attribution of responsibilities among natural gas undertakings , the member states and the union regarding both preventive action and the reaction to concrete disruptions of supply . this regulation also provides transparent mechanisms , in a spirit of solidarity , for the coordination of planning for , and response to , an emergency at member state , regional and union levels . ### this regulation establishes provisions aimed at safeguarding the security of gas supply by ensuring the proper and continuous functioning of the internal market in natural gas , by allowing for exceptional measures to be implemented when the market can no longer deliver the required gas supplies and by providing for a clear definition and attribution of responsibilities among natural gas undertakings , the member states and the union regarding both preventive action and the reaction to concrete disruptions of supply . this regulation also provides transparent mechanisms , in a spirit of solidarity , for the coordination of planning for , and response to , an emergency at member state , regional and union levels . whenever possible , sustainable measures will be preferred over the construction of new gas infrastructures .


### the competent authority shall require the natural gas undertakings , that it identifies , to take measures to ensure the supply of gas to the protected customers of the member state in each of the following cases : ### the competent authority shall require the natural gas undertakings , that it identifies , to take measures , in close collaboration with electricity undertakings to ensure the supply of energy to the protected customers of the member state in each of the following cases :


### the competent authorities of the member states of each region as listed in annex i , after consulting the natural gas undertakings , the relevant organisations representing the interests of household and industrial gas customers , including electricity producers , and the national regulatory authorities , where they are not the competent authorities , shall establish jointly : ### the competent authorities of the member states of each region as listed in annex i , after consulting the natural gas and electricity undertakings , the relevant organisations representing the interests of household and industrial gas customers , including electricity producers , the national environmental agency , and the national regulatory authorities , where they are not the competent authorities , shall establish jointly :


### a preventive action plan containing the measures to be adopted to remove or mitigate the risks identified in the region , including risks of purely national dimension , in accordance with the risk assessment undertaken pursuant to article 6 and in accordance with article 8 ; and ### a sustainable preventive action plan containing the measures , including energy efficiency measures , to be adopted to remove or mitigate the risks identified in the region , including risks of purely national dimension , in accordance with the risk assessment undertaken pursuant to article 6 and in accordance with article 8 ; and


### a gas coordination group is established to facilitate the coordination of measures concerning security of gas supply . the group shall be composed of representatives of the member states , in particular of their competent authorities , as well as the agency for the cooperation of energy regulators , the entso for gas and representative bodies of the industry concerned and those of relevant customers . the commission shall , in consultation with the member states , decide on the composition of the group , ensuring it is fully representative . the commission shall chair the group . the group shall adopt its rules of procedure . ### a gas coordination group is established to facilitate the coordination of measures concerning security of gas supply . the group shall be composed of representatives of the member states , in particular of their competent authorities , as well as the agency for the cooperation of energy regulators , the entso for gas and electricity and representative bodies of the industry concerned , and those of relevant customers and environmental protection authorities . the commission shall , in consultation with the member states , decide on the composition of the group , ensuring it is fully representative . the commission shall chair the group . the group shall adopt its rules of procedure .


### to ensure that national measures for developing renewable heating and cooling are based on comprehensive mapping and analysis of the national renewable and waste energy potential and provide for increased integration of renewable energy and waste heat and cold sources , it is appropriate to require that member states carry out an assessment of their national potential of renewable energy sources and the use of waste heat and cold for heating and cooling , in particular to facilitate mainstreaming renewable energy in heating and cooling installations and promote efficient and competitive district heating and cooling as defined by article 2 of directive 2012 / 27 / eu of the european parliament and of the council21 . to ensure consistency with energy efficiency requirements for heating and cooling and reduce administrative burden this assessment should be included in the comprehensive assessments carried out and notified in accordance with article 14 of that directive . __________________ 21 directive 2012 / 27 / eu of the european parliament and of the council of 25 october 2012 on energy efficiency , amending directives 2009 / 125 / ec and 2010 / 30 / eu and repealing directives 2004 / 8 / ec and 2006 / 32 / ec . ### to ensure that national measures for developing renewable heating and cooling are based on comprehensive mapping and analysis of the national renewable and waste energy potential and demand and also to provide for increased development of regional structures for generation of renewable energy and waste heat and cold sources , it is appropriate to require that member states carry out an assessment of their national potential of renewable energy sources and the use of waste heat and cold for heating and cooling , in particular to facilitate mainstreaming renewable energy in heating and cooling installations and promote efficient and competitive district heating and cooling as defined by article 2 of directive 2012 / 27 / eu of the european parliament and of the council21 . to ensure consistency with energy efficiency requirements for heating and cooling and reduce administrative burden this assessment should be included in the comprehensive assessments carried out and notified in accordance with article 14 of that directive . __________________ 21 directive 2012 / 27 / eu of the european parliament and of the council of 25 october 2012 on energy efficiency , amending directives 2009 / 125 / ec and 2010 / 30 / eu and repealing directives 2004 / 8 / ec and 2006 / 32 / ec .


### the costs of connecting new producers of gas from renewable energy sources to the gas grids should be based on objective , transparent and non - discriminatory criteria and due account should be taken of the benefit that embedded local producers of gas from renewable sources bring to the gas grids . ### the costs of connecting new producers of gas from renewable energy sources to the gas grids should be based on objective , transparent and non - discriminatory criteria , weighted to encourage and incentivize local producers taking into account the benefits that embedded local producers of gas from renewable sources bring to the gas grids .


### in order to exploit the full potential of biomass to contribute to the decarbonisation of the economy through its uses for materials and energy , the union and the member states should promote greater sustainable mobilisation of existing timber and agricultural resources and the development of new forestry and agriculture production systems . ### in order to exploit the full potential of biomass to contribute to the decarbonisation of the economy through its uses for materials and energy , while excluding biomass imports from third countries , the union and the member states should promote greater sustainable mobilisation of existing timber and agricultural resources and the development of new agro forestry agriculture production systems .


### ‘ biofuels’ means liquid fuel for transport produced from biomass ; ### ‘ biofuels’ means liquid fuel for transport produced from biomass or by biomass ;


### ‘ waste heat or cold’ means heat or cold which is generated as by - product in industrial or power generation installations and which would be dissipated unused in air or water without access to a district heating or cooling system ; ### ‘ waste energy’ means thermal energy which is not ambient according to and is generated as an unavailable by - product in industrial or in buildings and which would be dissipated unused in air or water without access to a district or other dedicated heating or cooling recovery system ;


### member states shall , in their building regulations and codes or by other means with equivalent effect , require the use of minimum levels of energy from renewable sources in new buildings and in existing buildings that are subject to major renovation , reflecting the results of the cost - optimal calculation carried out pursuant to article 5 of directive 2010 / 31 / eu . member states shall permit those minimum levels to be fulfilled , inter alia , using a significant proportion of renewable energy sources . ### member states shall , in their building regulations and codes or by other means with equivalent effect , require the use of minimum levels of energy from renewable sources in new buildings and in existing buildings that are subject to major renovation , reflecting the results of the cost - optimal calculation carried out pursuant to article 5 of directive 2010 / 31 / eu . member states shall permit those minimum levels to be fulfilled , inter alia , through district heating and cooling and other local energy infrastructure using a significant proportion of renewable energy .


### the type of renewable energy source . ### the type of renewable energy and / or waste heat or cold source .


### member states shall put in place a database enabling tracing of transport fuels that are eligible for counting towards the numerator set out in paragraph 1 , and require the relevant economic operators to enter information on the transactions made and the sustainability characteristics of the eligible fuels , including their life cycle greenhouse gas emissions , starting from their point of production to the fuel supplier that places the fuel on the market . ### the commission shall put in place a database and transfer platform enabling tracing of transport fuels and renewable electricity that are eligible for counting towards the numerator set out in point of paragraph 1 . member states shall require fuel suppliers to enter in the database the total annual quantities of energy they have supplied to the transport sector as defined in the denominator in point of paragraph 1 . suppliers of renewable energy in transport as defined in the numerator in point of paragraph 1 shall be required to enter information on the transactions made and the sustainability characteristics of the eligible fuels , including their life cycle greenhouse gas emissions , starting from their point of production to the fuel supplier that places the fuel on the market . aggregated data shall be made publicly available from the database showing how each fuel supplier meets the obligation . the database shall include information on the requirement placed on fuel suppliers described in paragraph 1 and how the requirement is fulfilled , including transfers of obligations between fuel suppliers


### impacts of forest harvesting on soil quality and biodiversity are minimised ; ### impacts of forest harvesting on soil and water quality and biodiversity are minimised ;


### the platform should make use of all relevant sources of information , in particular studies , bilateral agreements concluded between member states and multilateral cooperation projects and create synergies between existing eu level instruments and structures to maximise the deterrent or preventive effect of these measures . the operational coordination of actions of the member states could take the form of joint trainings , peer reviews and solutions for data sharing . european campaigns or common strategies could increase the awareness of undeclared work . ### the platform should make use of all relevant sources of information , in particular studies , including the studies of relevant union agencies , such as the european institute for gender equality , which address needs of particular population groups , bilateral agreements concluded between member states and multilateral cooperation projects and create synergies between existing eu level instruments and structures to maximise the deterrent or preventive effect of these measures . the operational coordination of actions of the member states could take the form of joint trainings , peer reviews and solutions for data sharing . european campaigns or common strategies could increase the awareness of undeclared work .


### the platform should involve the social partners at eu level , both cross - industry and in those sectors more severely affected by undeclared work , and cooperate with relevant international organisations , such as the international labour organisation , and union decentralised agencies , in particular eurofound and european agency for safety and health at work . the involvement of eurofound and european agency for safety and health at work in the work of the platform as observers will not extend their existing mandates . ### the platform should involve the social partners at eu level , both cross - industry and in those sectors more severely affected by undeclared work and in which workers have difficulties to move into the formal sector , and cooperate with relevant international organisations , such as the international labour organisation , and union decentralised agencies , in particular eurofound , the european agency for safety and health at work and the european institute for gender equality . the involvement of eurofound , the european agency for safety and health at work and the european institute for gender equality in the work of the platform as observers or participants will not extend their existing mandates .


### the platform , as set out in article 1 , shall contribute to better enforcement of eu and national law , to the reduction of undeclared work and the emergence of formal jobs , hence avoiding the deterioration of quality of work , and to promote integration in the labour market and social inclusion by : ### the platform , as set out in article 1 , shall offer a common understanding of undeclared work by means of adopting a clear definition of undeclared work to reflect the reality in labour and contribute to better enforcement of eu and national law , to the reduction of undeclared work and the emergence of formal jobs , hence avoiding the deterioration of quality of work , and to promote equal integration in the labour market and social inclusion by :


### adopt non - binding guidelines for inspectors , handbooks of good practice and common principles of inspections to tackle undeclared work , ### adopt non - binding guidelines for inspectors , handbooks of good practice and common principles of inspections to tackle undeclared work , which are comprehensive in terms of the differences between the working conditions of women and men ,


### the union needs to ensure its freedom of action and autonomy to have access to space and be able to use it safely . it is therefore essential that it maintains autonomous , reliable and cost - effective access to space , especially as regards critical infrastructure and technology , public security and the security of the union and its member states . the commission should therefore have the possibility to aggregate launch services at european level , both for its own needs and , at their request , for those of other entities , including member states , in conformity with the provisions of article 189 of the treaty . it is also crucial that the union continues to have modern , efficient and flexible launch infrastructure facilities . in addition to measures taken by member states and the european space agency , the commission should consider ways to support such facilities . in particular , where space ground infrastructure necessary to perform launches in line with the needs of the programme is to be maintained or upgraded , it should be possible to partially fund such adaptations under the programme , in line with the financial regulation and where a clear eu value added can be established , with the view of achieving a better cost efficiency for the programme . ### the union needs to ensure its freedom of action and autonomy to have access to space and be able to use it safely . it is therefore essential that it maintains autonomous , reliable and cost - effective access to space , especially as regards critical infrastructure and technology , public security and the security of the union and its member states . the commission should therefore have the possibility to aggregate launch services at european level for the programme in conformity with the provisions of article 189 of the treaty . it is also crucial that the union continues to have modern , efficient and flexible launch infrastructure facilities . in addition to measures taken by member states and the european space agency , the commission should consider ways to support such facilities . in particular , where space ground infrastructure necessary to perform launches in line with the needs of the programme is to be maintained or upgraded , it should be possible to partially fund such adaptations under the programme , in line with the financial regulation and where a clear eu value added can be established , with the view of achieving a better cost efficiency for the programme .


### 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 . 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 .


### owing to its coverage and its potential to help resolve global challenges , the space programme of the union has a strong international dimension . the commission should therefore be enabled to manage , on behalf of the union , and coordinate activities on the international scene on behalf of the union , in particular to defend the interests of the union and its member states in international fora , including in the area of frequencies , to promote the union ' s technology and industry , and to encourage cooperation in the field of training , bearing in mind the need to ensure the reciprocity of the rights and obligations of the parties . it is particularly important that the union be represented by the commission in the bodies of the international cospas - sarsat programme or in relevant sectoral un bodies including the food and agriculture organisation , as well as the world meteorological organisation . ### owing to its coverage and its potential to help resolve global challenges , the space programme of the union has a strong international dimension . for what concerns this programme , the commission should therefore be enabled to coordinate , on behalf of the union , activities related to the programme and its implementation , to promote the union ' s technology and industry , and to encourage cooperation in the field of training , bearing in mind the need to ensure the reciprocity of the rights and obligations of the parties .


### as promoter of the union’s general interest , it falls to the commission to implement the programme , assume overall responsibility and promote their use . in order to optimise the resources and competences of the various stakeholders , the commission should be able to delegate certain tasks . moreover the commission is the best placed to determine the main technical and operational specifications necessary to implement systems and services evolution . ### as promoter of the union’s general interest , it falls to the commission to implement the programme , assume overall responsibility and promote their use . in order to optimise the resources and competences of the various stakeholders , the commission should be able to delegate certain tasks . moreover the commission is the best placed to determine the high - level requirements necessary to implement systems and services evolution .


### the mission of the european union agency for the space programme , which replaces and succeeds the european gnss agency established by regulation no 912 / 2010 , is to contribute to the programme , particularly as regards security . certain tasks linked to the security and promotion of the programme should therefore be assigned to the agency . in relation to security in particular , and given its experience in this area , the agency should be responsible for the security accreditation tasks for all the union actions in the space sector . furthermore , it should perform the tasks which the commission confers on it by means of one or more contribution agreements covering various other specific tasks associated with the programme . ### the mission of the european union agency for the space programme , which replaces and succeeds the european gnss agency established by regulation no 912 / 2010 , is to contribute to the programme , particularly as regards security , communication , user uptake , market development , exploitation , etc . given its experience in these areas , the agency should be responsible for these tasks for all the union actions in the space sector . furthermore , it should perform the tasks which the commission confers on it by means of one or more contribution agreements covering various other specific tasks associated with the programme .


### 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 .


### ‘ space weather events’ means naturally occurring variations in the space environment between the sun and the earth , including solar flares , solar energetic particles , solar wind , and coronal mass ejections that can lead to solar storms potentially impacting earth ; ### ‘ space weather events’ means naturally occurring variations in the space environment between the sun and the earth , including solar flares , solar energetic particles , solar wind , and coronal mass ejections that can lead to solar storms potentially impacting earth or space - based infrastructure ;


### 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 .


### cross - cutting activities as foreseen by article 3 shall be financed under the programme ' s components . ### activities as foreseen by article 3 and 6 shall be financed under the programme ' s components .


### the contracting authority shall express the requisite share of the contract to be subcontracted in the form of a range from a minimum to a maximum percentage . ### the contracting authority shall express the requisite share of the contract to be subcontracted in the form of a range from a minimum to a maximum percentage . the minimum share for small and medium - sized enterprises shall be 40 % of the total amount dedicated to the contracts in the programme .


### in addition to the provisions of [ article 165 ] of the financial regulation , the commission and the agency may carry out joint procurement procedures with the european space agency or other international organisations involved in implementing the components of the programme . ### in addition to the provisions of [ article 165 ] of the financial regulation , the commission and / or the agency may carry out joint procurement procedures with the european space agency or other international organisations involved in implementing the components of the programme .


### the commission shall manage the component of the programme where such management is not entrusted to another entity . ### the commission shall manage the component of the programme only where it will achieve the objectives of the component of the programme more effectively than by entrusting such management to another entity . in other cases , the commission shall delegate the management of the component of the programme to agency , european space agency or other entities , as referred to in article 32 .


### where appropriate , it shall ensure the coordination with activities carried out in the space sector at union , national and international level . it shall encourage cooperation between the member states and promote convergence of their technological capacities and developments in the space domain . ### where appropriate , working with the agency , the commission shall endeavour the coordination of the programme with activities carried out in the space sector at union , national and international partners .


### –clearly define the responsibilities and obligations of the european space agency with regard to the programme ; ### –clearly define the responsibilities and obligations of the commission , the agency and the european space agency with regard to the programme ;


### –stipulate the conditions of the management of funds entrusted to the european space agency , particularly with regard to public procurement , management procedures , the expected results measured by performance indicators , applicable measures in the event of deficient or fraudulent implementation of the contracts in terms of costs , schedule and results , as well as the communication strategy and the rules regarding ownership of all tangible and intangible assets ; these conditions shall be in conformity with titles iii and v of this regulation and the financial regulation ; ### –stipulate the conditions of the management of funds entrusted to the european space agency , including application of the union public procurement when it is done in the name and on behalf of the commission or the agency , management procedures , the expected results measured by performance indicators , applicable measures in the event of deficient or fraudulent implementation of the contracts in terms of costs , schedule and results , as well as the communication strategy and the rules regarding ownership of all tangible and intangible assets ; these conditions shall be in conformity with titles iii and v of this regulation and the financial regulation ;


### the commission , in its field of competence , shall ensure a high degree of security with regard to , in particular : ### the commission and the agency , in their field of competence , shall ensure a high degree of security with regard to , in particular :


### to that end , the commission shall ensure that a risk and threat analysis is performed for each programme ' s component . based on that risk and threat analysis , it shall determine , by means of implementing acts , for each component of the programme , the general security requirements . in doing so , the commission shall take account of the impact of those requirements on the smooth functioning of that component , in particular in terms of cost , risk management and schedule , and shall ensure not to reduce the general level of security or undermine the functioning of the existing equipment based on that component . those implementing acts shall be adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 107 . ### to that end , the commission and the agency shall ensure , in consultation with end users in member states and the relevant entities managing the implementation of a component of the programme , that a risk and threat analysis is performed for each programme ' s component . based on that risk and threat analysis , the commission and the agency shall establish , in consultation with end users in member states and the relevant entities managing the implementation of a component of the programme for each such component of the programme , the high - level security requirements . in doing so , the commission and the agency shall take account of the impact of those requirements on the smooth functioning of that component , in particular in terms of cost , risk management and schedule , and shall ensure not to reduce the general level of security or undermine the functioning of the existing equipment based on that component . those implementing acts shall be adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 107 .


### the entity responsible for the management of a component of the programme shall be responsible for managing the security of that component and shall , to that end , carry out risk and threat analysis and all the necessary activities to ensure and monitor the security of that component , in particular setting of technical specifications and operational procedures , and monitor their compliance with the general security requirements referred to in paragraph 1 . ### the entity responsible for the management of a component of the programme shall be responsible for managing the security of that component and shall , to that end , carry out risk and threat analysis and all the necessary activities to ensure and monitor the security of that component , in particular setting of technical specifications and operational procedures , and monitor their compliance with the high - level security requirements referred to in paragraph 1 .


### the management , maintenance , continuous improvement , evolution and protection of the ground - based infrastructure , in particular networks , sites and support facilities , including upgrades and obsolescence management ; ### the management , maintenance , continuous improvement , evolution and protection of the ground - based infrastructure , in particular networks , sites and support facilities , including upgrades and obsolescence management and the development and evolution of fundamental technological elements of egnss , such as galileo - enabled chipsets and receivers ;


### the geographical coverage of egnos may be extended to other regions of the world , in particular to the territories of candidate countries , of third countries associated with the single european sky and of third countries in the european neighbourhood policy , subject to technical feasibility and , for the sol service , on the basis of international agreements . ### the geographical coverage of egnos may be extended to other regions of the world , in particular to the territories of candidate countries , of third countries associated with the single european sky and of third countries in the european neighbourhood policy , subject to technical feasibility , assessment of potential security threads to the system and security accreditation and , for the sol service , on the basis of international agreements .


### compatibility and interoperability ### compatibility , interoperability and standardisation


### the commission may coordinate the actions of the union and national public authorities concerned with civil protection in the event a neo is found to be approaching earth . ### the commission may coordinate the actions of the union and national public authorities concerned with civil protection in the event a neo is found to be approaching earth , with the involvement of the appropriate united nations’ bodies .


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


### the commission shall adopt , by means of implementing acts , the operational requirements for services provided under govsatcom , in the form of technical specifications for use - cases related to crisis management , surveillance and key infrastructure management , including diplomatic communication networks . those operational requirements shall be based on the detailed analysis of the requirements of users , and taking into account requirements stemming from existing user equipment and networks . those implementing acts shall be adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 107 . ### the commission shall adopt , by means of implementing acts , the operational requirements for services provided under govsatcom , in the form of technical specifications for use - cases related to crisis management , surveillance and key infrastructure management , including diplomatic communication networks . those operational requirements shall be based on the detailed analysis of the requirements of users , and taking into account requirements stemming from existing user equipment and networks . those implementing acts shall be adopted in accordance with the examination procedure referred to in article 107 . other use cases may be added at any time , based on actual user demand coming from the member states followed by corresponding technical specifications .


### before the end of 2024 , the commission shall evaluate the implementation of the govsatcom component , notably as regards the evolution of the user needs in relation to the satellite communication capacity . the evaluation shall in particular examine the need for additional space infrastructure . the evaluation shall be accompanied , if necessary , by an appropriate proposal for the development of additional space infrastructure under the govsatcom component . ### before the end of 2024 , the commission shall evaluate the implementation of the govsatcom component , notably as regards the evolution of the user needs in relation to the satellite communication capacity . the evaluation shall in particular examine the need for additional space infrastructure . the evaluation shall be accompanied , if necessary , by an appropriate proposal for the development of additional space infrastructure under the govsatcom component , while taking advantage of esa’s know - how .


### by 30 june 2024 , and every five years thereafter , the commission shall assess the agency’s performance , in relation to its objectives , mandate , tasks and location , in accordance with commission guidelines . the evaluation shall , in particular , address the possible need to modify the mandate of the agency , and the financial implications of any such modification . it shall also address the agency’s policy on conflicts of interest and the independence and autonomy of the security accreditation board . ### by 30 june 2024 , and every five years thereafter , the commission shall assess the agency’s performance , in relation to its objectives , mandate , tasks and influence of number of locations on the performance of the agency , in accordance with commission guidelines . the evaluation shall , in particular , address the possible need to modify the mandate of the agency , and the financial implications of any such modification . it shall also address the agency’s policy on conflicts of interest and the independence and autonomy of the security accreditation board .


### member states should have the possibility to use the above - mentioned amounts to continue implementing relocation by re - committing the amounts to the same action in the national programmes . in addition , it should be possible , duly justified in the revision of member states ' national programmes , to use this funding also to address other challenges in the area of migration and asylum , in line with the asylum , migration and integration fund regulation . member states ' needs in these areas remain significant . re - commitments of the above - mentioned amounts to the same action , or their transfer to other actions under the national programme should be possible only once and with the approval of the commission . ### member states should have the possibility to use the above - mentioned amounts to continue implementing relocation by re - committing the amounts to relocation of both applicants and beneficiaries of international protection in the national programmes . in addition , it should be possible to use this funding also for resettlement and other ad - hoc humanitarian admission , in line with article 7 of the asylum , migration and integration fund regulation . asylum seekers’ needs for both relocation within the eu and resettlement to the eu remain significant .


### member states should also have sufficient time to use the amounts re - committed to the same action or transferred to other actions prior to the decommitment of these amounts . therefore , when such re - commitments or transfers of amounts under the national programme are approved by the commission , the amounts concerned should be considered to have been committed in the year of the revision of the national programme that approves the re - commitment or the transfer concerned . ### member states should also have sufficient time to use the amounts re - committed to relocation of both applicants for international protection and beneficiaries of international protection or for resettlement and other ad - hoc humanitarian admission prior to the decommitment of these amounts . therefore , when such re - commitments under the national programme are approved by the commission , the amounts concerned should be considered to have been committed in the year of the revision of the national programme that approves the re - commitment concerned .


### “1 . with a view to implementing the principle of solidarity and fair sharing of responsibility and in the light of union policy developments within the implementation period of the fund , member states shall receive , in addition to their allocation calculated in accordance with point of article 15 , an additional amount as set out in point of article 15 based on a lump sum of eur 6 000 for each beneficiary of international protection transferred from another member state . ” ; ### the paragraph 1 is replaced by the following : “1 . with a view to implementing the principle of solidarity and fair sharing of responsibility and in the light of union policy developments within the implementation period of the fund , member states shall receive , in addition to their allocation calculated in accordance with point of article 15 , an additional amount as set out in point of article 15 based on a lump sum of eur 10 000 for each applicant for international protection and beneficiary of international protection transferred from another member state . ” ;


### the additional amounts referred to in paragraph 1 of this article shall be allocated to the member states for the first time in the individual financing decisions approving their national programme in accordance with the procedure laid down in article 14 of regulation no 514 / 2014 and later in a financing decision to be annexed to the decision approving their national programme . re - commitments of those amounts to the same action under the national programme or transfers thereof to other actions under the national programme shall be possible where duly justified in the revision of the respective national programme . an amount may only be re - committed or transferred once . the commission shall approve the re - commitment or transfer through the revision of the national programme . ### the additional amounts referred to in paragraph 1 of this article shall be allocated to the member states for the first time in the individual financing decisions approving their national programme in accordance with the procedure laid down in article 14 of regulation no 514 / 2014 and later in a financing decision to be annexed to the decision approving their national programme . re - commitments of those amounts to relocation of both applicants for international protection and beneficiaries of international protection and for resettlement and other ad - hoc humanitarian admission shall be possible in the revision of the respective national programme . an amount may only be re - committed once . the commission shall approve the re - commitment through the revision of the national programme .


### for the purpose of article 50 of regulation no 514 / 2014 , where amounts stemming from the provisional measures established by decisions no 2015 / 1523 and no 2015 / 1601 are re - committed to the same action under the national programme or transferred to other actions under the national programme in accordance with paragraph 3 , the amounts concerned shall be considered to have been committed in the year of the revision of the national programme that approves the re - commitment or transfer in question . ### for the purpose of article 50 of regulation no 514 / 2014 , where amounts stemming from the provisional measures established by decisions no 2015 / 1523 and no 2015 / 1601 are re - committed to relocation of both applicants for international protection and beneficiaries of international protection and for resettlement and other ad - hoc humanitarian admission in accordance with paragraph 3 , the amounts concerned shall be considered to have been committed in the year of the revision of the national programme that approves the re - commitment in question .


### to effectively pursue the objectives of solidarity and responsibility sharing between the member states referred to in article 80 tfeu , and within the limits of available resources , the commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 26 of this regulation to adjust the lump sum referred to in paragraph 1 of this article , in particular taking into account the current rates of inflation , relevant developments in the field of transfer of beneficiaries of international protection from one member state to another , as well as factors which can optimise the use of the financial incentive brought by the lump sums . ### the paragraph 4 is replaced by the following : 4 . to effectively pursue the objectives of solidarity and responsibility sharing between the member states referred to in article 80 tfeu , and within the limits of available resources , the commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 26 of this regulation to adjust the lump sum referred to in paragraph 1 of this article , in particular taking into account the current rates of inflation , relevant developments in the field of transfer of applicants for international protection and beneficiaries of international protection from one member state to another and for resettlement and other ad - hoc humanitarian admission , as well as factors which can optimise the use of the financial incentive brought by the lump sums .


### in recent years , the challenge posed by corporate income tax avoidance has increased considerably and has become a major focus of concern within the union and globally . the european council in its conclusions of 18 december 2014 acknowledged the urgent need to advance efforts in the fight against tax avoidance both at global and union level . the commission in its communications entitled ' commission work programme 2016 - no time for business as usual ' 16 and ' commission work programme 2015 - a new start ' 17 identified as a priority the need to move to a system whereby the country in which profits are generated is also the country of taxation . the commission also identified as a priority the need to respond to our societies ' call for fairness and tax transparency . __________________ 16 com 610 final of 27 october 2015 . 17 com 910 final of 16 december 2014 . ### in recent years , particularly after the revelations concerning various tax scandals , corporate income tax avoidance has been on the agenda and has sparked strong and justified demands for governments , both nationally and within the framework of international cooperation , to take practical and effective action to put an end to this phenomenon . the european council in its conclusions of 18 december 2014 acknowledged the urgent need to advance efforts in the fight against tax avoidance both at global and union level . the commission in its communications entitled ' commission work programme 2016 - no time for business as usual ' 16 and ' commission work programme 2015 - a new start ' 17 identified as a priority the need to move to a system whereby the country in which profits are generated is also the country of taxation . the commission also identified as a priority the need to respond to our societies ' call for fairness and tax transparency . despite all the intentions expressed , however , there is an urgent need for action . __________________ 16 com 610 final of 27 october 2015 . 17 com 910 final of 16 december 2014 .


### the public should be able to scrutinise all the activities of a group when the group has certain establishments within the union . for groups which carry out activities within the union only through subsidiary undertakings or branches , subsidiaries and branches should publish and make accessible the report of the ultimate parent undertaking . however for reasons of proportionality and effectiveness , the obligation to publish and make accessible the report should be limited to medium - sized or large subsidiaries established in the union , or branches of a comparable size opened in a member state . the scope of directive 2013 / 34 / eu should therefore be extended accordingly to branches opened in a member state by an undertaking which is established outside the union . ### the public should be able to scrutinise all the activities of a group when the group has certain establishments within european union member states . for groups which carry out activities within european union member states only through subsidiary undertakings or branches , subsidiaries and branches should also publish and make accessible a report . the obligation to publish and make accessible the report applies to all subsidiaries established in european union member states , or all branches opened in a member state . the scope of directive 2013 / 34 / eu should therefore be extended accordingly to branches opened in a member state by an undertaking which is established outside the european union and which has a consolidated net turnover exceeding eur 40 million .


### a brief description of the nature of the activities ; ### a description of the nature of the activities carried out by each entity , together with a breakdown of the respective areas of business , functions and geographical location ;


### one member appointed by the european parliament , with the right to vote . ### one member from each political group represented in the european parliament , with the right to vote .


### the commission experts shall perform controls , including audits , to obtain assurance that testing facilities comply with relevant standards for carrying out tests and studies submitted to the authority as part of an application for an authorisation under union food law . these controls shall be organised in cooperation with the competent authorities of the member states . ### the commission experts shall perform regular controls , including audits , to obtain assurance that testing facilities comply with relevant standards for carrying out tests and studies submitted to the authority as part of an application for an authorisation under union food law . these controls shall be organised in cooperation with the competent authorities of the member states .


### this regulation constitutes an essential step towards the completion of the capital markets union as set out in the communication from the commission to the european parliament , the council , the european economic and social committee and the committee of the regions , entitled ' action plan on building a capital markets union ' of 30 september 2015 . the aim of the capital markets union is to help businesses tap into more diverse sources of capital from anywhere within the european union , make markets work more efficiently and offer investors and savers additional opportunities to put their money to work , in order to enhance growth and create jobs . ### this regulation constitutes a step towards the completion of the capital markets union as set out in the communication from the commission to the european parliament , the council , the european economic and social committee and the committee of the regions , entitled ' action plan on building a capital markets union ' of 30 september 2015 .


### the content of the summary shall be accurate , fair , clear and not misleading . it shall be consistent with the other parts of the prospectus . ### the content of the summary shall , when read together with the other parts of the prospectus , be accurate , fair , clear and not misleading . the summary should be read as an introduction to the prospectus and the content of the summary shall be consistent with the other parts of the prospectus .


### under a sub - section titled ' what are the key risks that are specific to the securities ? ' a brief description of no more than five of the most material risk factors specific to the securities , contained in the category of highest materiality according to article 16 . ### under a sub - section titled ' what are the key risks that are specific to the securities ? ' a short summary of the risks specific to the securities which the issuer regards as the principal risks relating to the securities according to article 16 .


### natural mineral resources in conflict - affected or high risk areas &#8722 ; although holding great potential for development &#8211 ; can be a cause of dispute where their revenues are fuelling the outbreak or continuation of violent conflict , undermining national endeavours towards development , good governance and the rule of law . in these areas , breaking the nexus between conflict and illegal exploitation of minerals is critical to peace and stability . ### natural resources in conflict - affected or high risk areas &#8722 ; although holding great potential for development &#8211 ; can be a cause of dispute where their revenues are fuelling the outbreak or continuation of violent conflict , undermining national endeavours towards development , good governance and the rule of law . in these areas , breaking the nexus between conflict and illegal exploitation of natural resources is critical to peace and stability .


### in the context of this regulation , supply chain due diligence is an on - going , proactive and reactive process through which business operators monitor and administer their purchases and sales with a view to ensuring that they do not contribute to conflict and adverse impacts thereof . ### in the context of this regulation , and in line with the oecd due diligence guidance , supply chain due diligence is an on - going , proactive and reactive process through which business operators monitor and administer their purchases and sales with a view to ensuring that they respect human rights and do not contribute to conflict and adverse impacts thereof .


### union companies have expressed their interest through the public consultation in the responsible sourcing of minerals and reported on current industry schemes designed to pursue their corporate social responsibility objectives , customer requests , or the security of their supplies . however , union companies have also reported countless difficulties in the exercise of supply chain due diligence because of lengthy and complex global supply chains involving a high number of operators that are often insufficiently aware or ethically unconcerned . the cost of responsible sourcing and their potential impact on competitiveness notably on smes should be monitored by the commission . ### union companies have expressed their interest through the public consultation in the responsible sourcing of minerals and reported on current industry schemes designed to pursue their corporate social responsibility objectives , customer requests , or the security of their supplies . in accordance with the oecd due diligence guidance it is recognized that due diligence in conflict - affected and high - risk areas presents practical challenges and that flexibility is therefore needed in the application thereof . the nature and extent of due diligence that is appropriate for an enterprises’ individual circumstances depend on a number of factors , including its size and position in the supply chain , fully taking account of the challenges faced by smes .


### smelters and refiners are an important point in global mineral supply chains as they are typically the last stage in which due diligence can effectively be assured by collecting , disclosing and verifying information on the mineral’s origin and chain of custody . after this stage of transformation it is often considered unfeasible to trace back the origins of minerals . a union list of responsible smelters and refiners could therefore provide transparency and certainty to downstream companies as regards supply chain due diligence practices . ### smelters and refiners are recognised choke points in their respective supply chains with substantial influence over the due diligence that is conducted along the supply chain in the sourcing countries . a union list of responsible choke - point actors could therefore provide transparency and certainty to companies in the downstream with a view to carrying out supply chain due diligence practices . consistently with oecd due diligence guidance , choke - point actors should undergo independent third - party audit of their supply chain due diligence practices , also with a view to being included in the list of responsible actors . choke point actors based outside the union should also have a possibility for being included in the list to ensure its global scope .


### in order to ensure the proper implementation of this regulation , implementing powers should be conferred on the commission . the implementing powers relating to the list of responsible smelters and refiners and the list of member state competent authorities should be exercised in accordance with regulation no 182 / 201111 . __________________ 11 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 amend annex i and annex ii to this regulation , the commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 290 tfeu , following the provisions laid down in this regulation .


### ‘ conflict - affected and high - risk areas’ means areas in a state of armed conflict , fragile post - conflict as well as areas witnessing weak or non - existent governance and security , such as failed states , and widespread and systematic violations of international law , including human rights abuses ; ### ‘ conflict - affected and high - risk areas’ means areas identified by the presence of armed conflict , widespread violence or other risks of harm to people and , for these purposes , it is recognized that : armed conflict may take a variety of forms , such as a conflict of international or non - international character , which may involve two or more states , or may consist of wars of liberation , or insurgencies , civil wars ; and high - - risk areas may include areas of political instability or repression , institutional weakness , insecurity , collapse of civil infrastructure and widespread violence , both of which areas are often characterized by widespread human rights abuses and violations of national or international law ;


### adopt and clearly communicate to suppliers and the public its supply chain policy for the minerals and metals potentially originating from conflict - affected and high - risk areas , ### adopt and clearly communicate to suppliers and the public its supply chain policy for&#160 ; covered resources&#160 ; potentially originating from conflict - affected and high - risk areas ,


### respect the audit principles of independence , competence and accountability as set out in the oecd due diligence guidance . ### respect the audit principles of independence , competence and accountability and any applicable audit scope , criteria and activities , as set out in the oecd due diligence guidance .


### independent third - party audits regarding each of the responsible smelters or refiners in its supply chain carried out in accordance with the scope , objective and principles set out in article 6 of the regulation , ### independent third - party audits carried out in accordance with article 6 of this regulation ; and


### the responsible importer of minerals or metals within the scope of this regulation shall make available to its immediate downstream purchasers all information gained and maintained pursuant to its supply chain due diligence with due regard to business confidentiality and other competitive concerns . ### operators shall make available to their immediate downstream purchasers all information gained and maintained pursuant to its supply chain due diligence with due regard to business confidentiality and other competitive concerns , in accordance with the oecd guidance .


### the commission shall update the information included in the list in a timely manner . the commission shall remove from the list the names of the smelters and refiners that are no longer recognised as responsible importers by member states in accordance with article 14 , or the names of the smelters and refiners in the supply chain of the no longer recognised responsible importers . ### the commission shall update the information included in the list in a timely manner but not less than every six months . the commission shall remove from the list the names of annex ii actors that are no longer recognised as responsible annex ii actors by member states in accordance with article 14 .


### globalisation and technological change is likely to further increase the interconnectedness and interdependence of world economies . labour reallocation is an integral and inevitable part of such economic change . if the benefits of change are to be distributed fairly , offering assistance to displaced workers and those threatened by displacement is of utmost importance . the ‘ eu quality framework for anticipation of change and restructuring’22 , is the union policy instrument that sets the framework of best practice for anticipating and dealing with corporate restructuring . it offers a comprehensive framework on how the challenges of economic adjustment and restructuring and their employment and social impact should be addressed by adequate policy means . it also calls upon member states to use eu and national funding in a way to ensure that the social impact of restructuring , especially the adverse effects on employment , can be cushioned more effectively . the main union instruments to assist workers affected are the european social fund plus , which is designed to offer assistance in an anticipatory way , and the egf , which is designed to offer assistance in the case of unexpected major restructuring events in a reactive manner . _________________ 22 communication from the commission to the european parliament , the council , the european economic and social committee and the committee of the regions eu quality framework for anticipation of change and restructuring , 882 final , 13 . 12 . 2013 ) . ### globalisation and technological change is likely to further increase the interconnectedness and interdependence of world economies . labour reallocation is an integral and inevitable part of such economic change . if the benefits of change are to be distributed fairly , offering assistance to displaced workers and those threatened by displacement is of utmost importance . the ‘ eu quality framework for anticipation of change and restructuring’22 , is the union policy instrument that sets the framework of best practice for anticipating and dealing with corporate restructuring . it offers a comprehensive framework on how the challenges of economic adjustment and restructuring and their employment and social impact should be addressed by adequate policy means . where corporate opportunism in the guise of relocation is established , however , a means must be found to ensure that the companies / corporations laying off such workers must share the cost of those adjustment . the eu quality framework also calls on member states to use eu and national funding in a way to ensure that the social impact of restructuring , especially the adverse effects on employment , can be cushioned more effectively . the main union instruments to assist workers affected are the european social fund plus , which is designed to offer assistance in an anticipatory way , and the egf , which is designed to offer assistance in the case of unexpected major restructuring events in a reactive manner . _________________ 22 communication from the commission to the european parliament , the council , the european economic and social committee and the committee of the regions eu quality framework for anticipation of change and restructuring , 882 final , 13 . 12 . 2013 ) .


### globalisation and technological change is likely to further increase the interconnectedness and interdependence of world economies . labour reallocation is an integral and inevitable part of such economic change . if the benefits of change are to be distributed fairly , offering assistance to displaced workers and those threatened by displacement is of utmost importance . the ‘ eu quality framework for anticipation of change and restructuring’22 , is the union policy instrument that sets the framework of best practice for anticipating and dealing with corporate restructuring . it offers a comprehensive framework on how the challenges of economic adjustment and restructuring and their employment and social impact should be addressed by adequate policy means . it also calls upon member states to use eu and national funding in a way to ensure that the social impact of restructuring , especially the adverse effects on employment , can be cushioned more effectively . the main union instruments to assist workers affected are the european social fund plus , which is designed to offer assistance in an anticipatory way , and the egf , which is designed to offer assistance in the case of unexpected major restructuring events in a reactive manner . _________________ 22 communication from the commission to the european parliament , the council , the european economic and social committee and the committee of the regions eu quality framework for anticipation of change and restructuring , 882 final , 13 . 12 . 2013 ) . ### globalisation and technological change is likely to further increase the interconnectedness and interdependence of world economies . labour reallocation is an integral part of such economic change . if the benefits of change are to be distributed fairly , offering assistance to displaced workers and those threatened by displacement is of utmost importance . the ‘ eu quality framework for anticipation of change and restructuring’22 , is the union policy instrument that sets the framework of best practice for anticipating and dealing with corporate restructuring . it offers a comprehensive framework on how the challenges of economic adjustment and restructuring and their employment and social impact should be addressed by adequate policy means . without prejudice to the social responsibilities of the business community , it also calls upon member states to use eu and national funding in a way to ensure that the social impact of restructuring , especially the adverse effects on employment , can be cushioned more effectively . the main union instruments to assist workers affected are the european social fund plus , which is designed to offer assistance in an anticipatory way , and the egf , which is designed to offer assistance in the case of unexpected major restructuring events in a reactive manner . _________________ 22 communication from the commission to the european parliament , the council , the european economic and social committee and the committee of the regions eu quality framework for anticipation of change and restructuring , 882 final , 13 . 12 . 2013 ) .


### the commission carried out a mid - term evaluation of the egf to assess how and to what extent the egf achieves its objectives . the egf proved to be effective , attaining a higher reintegration rate of displaced workers than in the previous programming period . the evaluation also found that the egf generated european added value . this is particularly true in terms of its volume effects , meaning that egf assistance not only increases the number and variety of services offered , but also their level of intensity . moreover , egf interventions have high visibility and demonstrate the eu added value of the intervention directly to the general public however , several challenges were identified . on the one hand , the mobilisation procedure was considered to be too long . furthermore , many member states reported problems putting together the extensive background analysis of the event that triggered the redundancies . the main reason that keeps member states that would have had a potential egf case from applying are financial and institutional capacity problems . on the one hand , it could simply be a lack of manpower – member states currently can ask for technical assistance only if they implement an egf case . since redundancies can happen unexpectedly , it would be important that member states are ready to react immediately and can submit an application without any delays . furthermore , in certain member states , more profound institutional capacity building efforts seem necessary in order to ensure an efficient and effective implementation of egf cases . the threshold of 500 displaced jobs was criticized as being too high , especially in lesser populated regions26 . _________________ 26 com 297 final and accompanying swd 192 final . ### the commission carried out a mid - term evaluation of the egf to assess how and to what extent the egf achieves its objectives . the egf proved to be effective , attaining a higher reintegration rate of displaced workers than in the previous programming period . the evaluation also found that the egf generated european added value . this is particularly true in terms of its volume effects , meaning that egf assistance not only increases the number and variety of services offered , but also their level of intensity . moreover , egf interventions have high visibility and demonstrate the eu added value of the intervention directly to the general public however , several challenges were identified . on the one hand , it should be clear that for the development of social plans aimed at the reintegration of the workers concerned into the labour market , the businesses concerned and the member states bear the primary responsibility . the egf can only fulfill a complementary role and should concentrate on those regions , where neither the businesses concerned , nor the national and regional authorities have the resources to provide for the necessary measures . also , european added value has been questioned in those cases , where a company first received national and european subsidies , then decides to relocate a profit - making establishment to another member state or even to third countries , without taking its responsibility for funding the reintegration of the workers affected by the closure of its establishment , and instead , especially in cases of relocation within the eu , may once more benefit from subsidies at the new location . in addition , the mobilisation procedure was considered to be too long . many member states reported problems putting together the extensive background analysis of the event that triggered the redundancies . the main reason that keeps member states that would have had a potential egf case from applying are financial and institutional capacity problems . since redundancies can happen unexpectedly , it would be important that member states are ready to react immediately and can submit an application without any delays . the threshold of 500 displaced jobs was criticized as being too high , especially in lesser populated regions26 . _________________ 26 com 297 final and accompanying swd 192 final .


### displaced workers and self - employed persons whose activity has ceased should have equal access to the egf independently of their type of employment contract or employment relationship . therefore , displaced workers as well as self - employed persons whose activity has ceased should be regarded as possible egf beneficiaries for the purposes of this regulation . ### displaced workers should have equal access to the egf independently of their type of employment contract or employment relationship . therefore , displaced workers should be regarded as possible egf beneficiaries for the purposes of this regulation .


### financial contributions from the egf should be primarily directed at active labour market measures aimed at reintegrating beneficiaries rapidly into sustainable employment , either within or outside their initial sector of activity . measures should reflect the prospected needs of the local or regional labour market . however , whenever relevant , the mobility of displaced workers should also be supported in order to help find new employment elsewhere . a particular focus shall be laid on the dissemination of skills required in the digital age . the inclusion of pecuniary allowances in a coordinated package of personalised services should be restricted . companies could be encouraged to participate in the national co - funding for the egf - supported measures . ### financial contributions from the egf should be without prejudice to the social responsibility of the businesses concerned and should be primarily directed at active labour market measures aimed at reintegrating beneficiaries rapidly into sustainable employment , either within or outside their initial sector of activity . measures should reflect the prospected needs of the local or regional labour market . however , whenever relevant , the mobility of displaced workers should also be supported in order to help find new employment elsewhere . a particular focus shall be laid on the dissemination of skills required in the digital age . the inclusion of pecuniary allowances in a coordinated package of personalised services should be restricted . companies should be encouraged to participate in the national co - funding for the egf - supported measures .


### in compliance with the principle of sound financial management , financial contributions from the egf should not replace but should , where possible , complement support measures which are available for beneficiaries within the union funds or other union policies or programmes . ### in compliance with the principle of sound financial management , financial contributions from the egf should not replace but should complement support measures businesses concerned are required to take within the context of a social plan , and measures national or regional authorities can fund themselves as well as measures which are available for beneficiaries within the union funds or other union policies or programmes . situations in which businesses first receive union subsidies for their activities , such as for innovation , and then close down profit - making establishments should be avoided ; especially in these cases , contributions from the egf should be made conditional upon cofunding by the businesses concerned .


### the egf shall contribute to a better distribution of the benefits of globalisation and technological advance by helping displaced workers adapt to structural change . as such , the egf shall contribute to the implementation of the principles defined under the european pillar of social rights and enhance social and economic cohesion among regions and member states . ### the egf shall contribute to a better distribution of the benefits of globalisation and technological advance by helping displaced workers adapt to structural change . as such , the egf shall contribute to the implementation of the principles defined under article 151 tfeu , the european pillar of social rights and enhance social and economic cohesion among regions and member states .


### the egf shall contribute to a better distribution of the benefits of globalisation and technological advance by helping displaced workers adapt to structural change . as such , the egf shall contribute to the implementation of the principles defined under the european pillar of social rights and enhance social and economic cohesion among regions and member states . ### the egf shall contribute to reducing the negative impacts of globalisation and technological advance by helping displaced workers adapt to structural change . as such , the egf shall contribute to the implementation of the principles defined under the european pillar of social rights and enhance social and economic cohesion among regions and member states .


### the specific objective of the egf is to offer assistance in case of unexpected major restructuring events , particularly those caused by globalisation - related challenges , such as changes in world trade patterns , trade disputes , financial or economic crises , the transition to low - carbon economy or as a consequence of digitisation or automation . particular emphasis shall lie on measures that help the most disadvantaged groups . ### the specific objective of the egf is to offer assistance in case of unexpected major restructuring events , particularly those caused by globalisation - related challenges , such as changes in world trade patterns , trade disputes , financial or economic crises , the transition to low - carbon economy or as a consequence of digitisation or automation . particular emphasis shall lie on measures that help the most disadvantaged groups and on member states and regions having been hit hardest and where the national and regional authorities lack adequate resources for taking the necessary measures . the egf is without prejudice to the social responsibilities of the companies concerned , in particular where it concerns their contribution to the social plans for displaced workers .


### the specific objective of the egf is to offer assistance in case of unexpected major restructuring events , particularly those caused by globalisation - related challenges , such as changes in world trade patterns , trade disputes , financial or economic crises , the transition to low - carbon economy or as a consequence of digitisation or automation . particular emphasis shall lie on measures that help the most disadvantaged groups . ### the specific objective of the egf is to offer assistance in case of unexpected major restructuring events , particularly those caused by globalisation - related challenges , such as outsourcing by global corporations and others of jobs from the european union to cheaper labour markets , changes in world trade patterns , trade disputes , major trade deals , financial or economic crises , the transition to low - carbon economy or as a consequence of digitisation or automation . particular emphasis shall lie on measures that help the most disadvantaged groups .


### the cessation of activity of more than 250 displaced workers or self - employed persons , over a reference period of six months , particularly in smes , where all operate in the same economic sector defined at nace revision 2 division level and located in one region or two contiguous regions defined at nuts 2 level or in more than two contiguous regions defined at nuts 2 level provided that there are more than 250 workers or self - employed persons affected in two of the regions combined ; ### the cessation of activity of more than 250 displaced workers over a reference period of six months , particularly in smes , where all operate in the same economic sector defined at nace revision 2 division level and located in one region or two contiguous regions defined at nuts 2 level or in more than two contiguous regions defined at nuts 2 level provided that there are more than 250 workers affected in two of the regions combined ;


### the confirmation that , where the dismissing enterprise has continued its activities after the lay - offs , it has complied with its legal obligations governing the redundancies ; ### the confirmation that , where the dismissing enterprise has continued its activities after the lay - offs , it has complied with its legal obligations governing the redundancies , as well as with those resulting from collective agreements or negotiations on a social plan ;


### 11equality between men and women and non - discrimination ### 11equality between the genders and non - discrimination


### the commission and the member states shall ensure that equality between men and women and the integration of the gender perspective are an integral part of , and are promoted during , the various stages of the implementation of the financial contribution from the egf . ### the commission and the member states shall ensure that equality between the genders and the integration of the gender perspective are an integral part of , and are promoted during , the various stages of the implementation of the financial contribution from the egf .


### in the ‘ compact for growth and jobs’ , the european council requested to explore the possibility of extending to apprenticeships and traineeships the eures network , apprenticeships and traineeships can be covered under the present regulation , provided that the persons concerned are considered workers with reference to the rights conferred on citizens under article 45 of the treaty . an appropriate exchange of general information on mobility for apprenticeships and traineeships within the union needs to be introduced and adequate assistance to the candidates for those positions should be developed , based on a mechanism for clearance of offers , once such a clearance is deemed feasible in accordance with the appropriate standards and with due respect to the competences of the member states . ### in the ‘ compact for growth and jobs’ , the european council requested to explore the possibility of extending to apprenticeships and traineeships the eures network , apprenticeships and traineeships can be covered under the present regulation , provided that the persons concerned are considered workers with reference to the rights conferred on citizens under article 45 of the treaty . an appropriate exchange of general information on mobility for apprenticeships and traineeships within the union needs to be introduced and adequate assistance to the candidates for those positions should be developed , based on a mechanism for clearance of offers , once such a clearance is deemed feasible in accordance with the appropriate standards and with due respect to the competences of the member states . eures will cooperate with national institutions to ensure that apprenticeship and traineeship offers do not hide irregular labour relationships .


### the social partners ' participation in the eures network contributes in particular to the analysis of obstacles to mobility as well as the promotion of fair and voluntary labour mobility within the union , including in the cross - border regions . social partners representatives at union level should therefore be involved in the overall governance structure of the eures network , while national employers ' organisations and trade unions may apply to become a eures partner . ### the social partners ' participation in the eures network contributes in particular to the analysis of obstacles to fair and voluntary labour mobility within the union , including in the cross - border regions . social partners representatives at union level should therefore be involved in the overall governance structure of the eures network , while national employers ' organisations and trade unions may apply to become a eures partner .


### transparency of labour markets and adequate matching capabilities are pre - conditions for labour mobility within the union . a better balance between labour supply and demand can be achieved through an efficient system at union level for exchanging of information on national and sectoral labour surpluses and shortages that should be set up between member states and the european commission and used as a basis for member states to develop their mobility policies and underpin the practical cooperation within the eures network . ### an efficient system at union level for exchanging of information on national and sectoral labour shortages should be set up between member states and the european commission .


### a programming cycle should be established to support the coordination of action on mobility within the union . to be effective , the programming of member states ' activity plans should take into account data on mobility flows and patterns , the data analysis of existing and forecast labour shortages and surpluses , and recruitment experiences and practices under the eures network and it should consist of a review of the existing resources and tools at the disposal of the organisations in the member state to facilitate intra - eu labour mobility . ### member states ' activity plans should take into account data on mobility flows and patterns , the data analysis of existing and forecast labour shortages , and recruitment experiences and practices under the eures network and it should consist of a review of the existing resources and tools at the disposal of the organisations in the member state .


### in order to obtain adequate information for measuring the results of the eures network , common indicators should be established . those indicators should guide the organisations participating in the eures network in identifying their results and should help assess the progress made against the objectives set for the eures network as a whole , including its contribution towards the implementation of a coordinated strategy for employment in accordance with article 145 of the treaty . ### in order to obtain adequate information for measuring the results of the eures network , common indicators should be established and a thorough assessment of the impact of mobility on labour markets be made . those indicators and that impact assessment should guide the organisations participating in the eures network in identifying their results and should help assess the progress made against the objectives set for the eures network as a whole , including its contribution towards the implementation of a coordinated strategy for employment in accordance with article 145 of the treaty .


### increased voluntary geographical and occupational mobility in the union on a fair basis ; ### to support voluntary geographical and occupational mobility in the union on a fair basis , in full respect and promotion of safe , decent and regulated working conditions and rights ;


### each member state ensures that its national coordination office gets the staff and other resources necessary to carry out its tasks as defined under this regulation . ### each member state ensures that its national coordination office gets the staff and other resources necessary to carry out its tasks as defined under this regulation . it shall also define the fees required from eures partners to carry out those tasks .


### where appropriate , to refer to another eures partner . ### where appropriate , to refer to the public employment services .