### (17) provisions on the implementation of the technical support instrument should be laid down , in particular the management modes , the forms of funding for the technical support measures and the content of work programmes , which should be adopted by way of implementing acts. in view of the importance of sustaining the efforts of member states in pursuing and implementing reforms , it is necessary to allow for a co-financing rate for grants of up to 100% of the eligible costs. to allow for a rapid mobilisation of technical support in case of urgency , provision should be made for the adoption of special measures for a limited period of time. to that effect , a limited amount of the budget within the work programme of the technical support instrument should be set aside for special measures. ### (17) provisions on the implementation of the technical support instrument should be laid down , in particular the management modes , the forms of funding for the technical support measures and the content of work programmes , which should be adopted by way of delegated acts. in view of the importance of sustaining the efforts of member states in pursuing and implementing reforms and investments , it is necessary to allow for a co-financing rate for grants of up to 100% of the eligible costs. to allow for a rapid mobilisation of technical support in case of urgency , provision should be made for the adoption of special measures for a limited period of time. to that effect , a limited amount of the budget within the work programme of the technical support instrument should be set aside for special measures.


### (21) the work programmes for the implementation of technical support should be established. in order to ensure uniform conditions for the implementation of this regulation , implementing powers should be conferred on the commission. horizontal financial rules adopted by the european parliament and the council on the basis of article 322 of the treaty apply to this regulation. these rules are laid down in regulation (eu , euratom) 2018/1046 of the european parliament and of the council (the financial regulation)17 and determine in particular the procedure for establishing and implementing the budget through grants , procurement , prizes , indirect implementation , and provide for checks on the responsibility of financial actors. rules adopted on the basis of article 322 tfeu also concern the protection of the union's budget in case of generalised deficiencies as regards the rule of law in the member states , as the respect for the rule of law is an essential precondition for sound financial management and effective eu funding. ### (21) the work programmes for the implementation of technical support should be established. in order to ensure uniform conditions for the implementation of this regulation , power to adopt delegated acts should be conferred on the commission. horizontal financial rules adopted by the european parliament and the council on the basis of article 322 of the treaty apply to this regulation. these rules are laid down in regulation (eu , euratom) 2018/1046 of the european parliament and of the council (the financial regulation)17 and determine in particular the procedure for establishing and implementing the budget through grants , procurement , prizes , indirect implementation , and provide for checks on the responsibility of financial actors. rules adopted on the basis of article 322 tfeu also concern the protection of the union's budget in case of generalised deficiencies as regards the rule of law in the member states , as the respect for the rule of law is an essential precondition for sound financial management and effective eu funding.


### (1) technical support’ means measures that help member states to carry out institutional , administrative and growth-sustaining and resilience-enhancing reforms; ### (1) ‘technical support’ means measures that help member states to carry out reforms and investments that promote fair , inclusive and sustainable social and economic growth , convergence and resilience;


### the general objective of the instrument shall be to promote the union’s economic , social and territorial cohesion by supporting member states efforts to implement reforms necessary to achieve economic and social recovery , resilience and upward economic and social convergence , and to support member states’ efforts to strengthen their administrative capacity to implement union law in relation to challenges faced by institutions , governance , public administration , and economic and social sectors. ### the general objective of the instrument shall be to promote economic , social and territorial cohesion in the european union by supporting member states’ efforts to implement projects that promote their development , investment in productive and strategic sectors , and the structuring of universal , free and high-quality public services , with a view to achieving economic and social recovery , resilience and upward economic and social convergence , and to support member states’ efforts to strengthen their administrative capacity to implement union law in relation to challenges faced by institutions , governance , public administration , and economic and social sectors.


### the general objective of the instrument shall be to promote the union’s economic , social and territorial cohesion by supporting member states efforts to implement reforms necessary to achieve economic and social recovery , resilience and upward economic and social convergence , and to support member states’ efforts to strengthen their administrative capacity to implement union law in relation to challenges faced by institutions , governance , public administration , and economic and social sectors. ### the general objective of the instrument shall be to promote the union’s economic , social and territorial cohesion by supporting member states efforts to implement reforms and promote the necessary public investment to achieve economic and social recovery , resilience , upward economic and social convergence and the reduction of poverty and inequality , and to support member states’ efforts to strengthen their administrative capacity to implement union law in relation to challenges faced by institutions , governance , public administration , and economic and social sectors. technical support shall be requested by member states and shall not be binding. policy objectives shall be in line with the european green new deal , the un’s sustainable development goals and the european pillar of social rights.


### the general objective of the instrument shall be to promote the union’s economic , social and territorial cohesion by supporting member states efforts to implement reforms necessary to achieve economic and social recovery , resilience and upward economic and social convergence , and to support member states’ efforts to strengthen their administrative capacity to implement union law in relation to challenges faced by institutions , governance , public administration , and economic and social sectors. ### the general objective of the instrument shall be to promote the union’s economic , social and territorial cohesion and regional development by supporting member states efforts to implement reforms and investments necessary to achieve economic and social recovery , resilience and upward economic and social convergence in a fair and inclusive way , to support member states’ efforts to strengthen their administrative capacity to implement union law in relation to challenges faced by institutions , governance , public administration , and economic and social sectors and to contribute to the implementation of core union’s priorities and objectives such as the european green deal , the paris agreement , the “do no significant harm” principle , the sustainable development goals , the european pillar of social rights , digital transformation and innovation.


### to achieve the general objective set out in article 3 , the instrument shall have the specific objectives of assisting national authorities in improving their capacity to design , develop and implement reforms , including through exchange of good practices , appropriate processes and methodologies and a more effective and efficient human resources management. those specific objectives shall be pursued in close cooperation with the member states concerned. ### to achieve the general objective set out in article 3 , the instrument shall have the specific objectives of assisting national authorities in improving their capacity to design and implement projects , including through exchange of good practices , appropriate processes and methodologies and a more effective and efficient human resources management. those specific objectives shall be pursued in close cooperation with the member states concerned.


### to achieve the general objective set out in article 3 , the instrument shall have the specific objectives of assisting national authorities in improving their capacity to design , develop and implement reforms , including through exchange of good practices , appropriate processes and methodologies and a more effective and efficient human resources management. those specific objectives shall be pursued in close cooperation with the member states concerned. ### to achieve the general objective set out in article 3 , the instrument shall have the specific objectives of assisting member states and their competent national authorities in improving their capacity to design , develop and implement reforms and investments , including through exchange of good practices , appropriate processes and methodologies and a more effective and efficient human resources management. those specific objectives shall be pursued in close cooperation with the member states and the competent national authorities concerned.


### to achieve the general objective set out in article 3 , the instrument shall have the specific objectives of assisting national authorities in improving their capacity to design , develop and implement reforms , including through exchange of good practices , appropriate processes and methodologies and a more effective and efficient human resources management. those specific objectives shall be pursued in close cooperation with the member states concerned. ### to achieve the general objective set out in article 3 , the instrument shall have the specific objectives of assisting national authorities in improving their capacity to design , develop and implement reforms and promote public investment , including through exchange of good practices , appropriate processes and methodologies and a more effective and efficient human resources management. those specific objectives shall be pursued in close cooperation with the member states concerned.


### the specific objectives set out in article 4 shall refer to policy areas related to cohesion , competitiveness , education , productivity , research and innovation , smart , fair , sustainable , and inclusive growth , jobs and investment , with specific emphasis to actions that foster the green and digital transitions , and in particular to one or more of the following: ### the specific objectives set out in article 4 shall refer to policy areas related to upward convergence , cohesion , resilience , social justice and inclusion , competitiveness , education , public healthcare , social infrastructure , productivity , research and innovation , smart , fair , sustainable and inclusive growth , high-quality jobs and investment , with specific emphasis to actions that foster the green and digital transitions , and in particular to one or more of the following:


### the specific objectives set out in article 4 shall refer to policy areas related to cohesion , competitiveness , education , productivity , research and innovation , smart , fair , sustainable , and inclusive growth , jobs and investment , with specific emphasis to actions that foster the green and digital transitions , and in particular to one or more of the following: ### the specific objectives set out in article 4 shall refer to policy areas related to cohesion , competitiveness , education , productivity , research and innovation , smart , fair , sustainable , and inclusive growth , jobs and investment , with specific emphasis to actions that foster the green and digital transitions as well as the fight against poverty and inequality , focusing in one or more of the following:


### business environment , including for small and medium-sized enterprises and social economy enterprises , re-industrialisation , private sector development , product and service markets , investment , public participation in enterprises , privatisation processes , trade and foreign direct investment , competition and public procurement , sustainable sectoral development and support for research and innovation and digitisation; ### business environment , including for small and medium-sized enterprises and social economy enterprises , re-industrialisation , private sector development , product and service markets , public investment policy , private investments , public participation in enterprises , privatisation processes , trade and foreign direct investment , competition and public procurement , sustainable sectoral development and support for research and innovation and digitisation;


### education and training , labour market policies , including social dialogue , for the creation of jobs , up- and re-skilling , in particular digital skills , media literacy , active citizenship , the fight against poverty and excessive income inequality , gender equality , the promotion of social inclusion , adequate and inclusive social security and social welfare systems , accessible and affordable public health and healthcare systems , as well as cohesion , asylum , migration and border policies; ### education and training , inclusive labour market policies , including social dialogue , for the creation of high-quality jobs , up- and re-skilling , in particular digital skills , media literacy , active citizenship , the fight against poverty and income inequality , gender equality , the promotion of social inclusion , adequate and inclusive social security and social welfare systems , accessible and affordable public health and healthcare systems , child care , housing , social infrastructure as well as cohesion , asylum , migration , border policies and integration;


### education and training , labour market policies , including social dialogue , for the creation of jobs , up- and re-skilling , in particular digital skills , media literacy , active citizenship , the fight against poverty and excessive income inequality , gender equality , the promotion of social inclusion , adequate and inclusive social security and social welfare systems , accessible and affordable public health and healthcare systems , as well as cohesion , asylum , migration and border policies; ### education and training , labour market policies , including social dialogue , for the creation of high quality and stable jobs , up- and re-skilling , in particular digital skills , media literacy , active citizenship , the fight against poverty , income inequality and precariousness , the promotion of gender equality , the promotion of social inclusion , adequate and inclusive social security and social welfare systems , accessible and affordable public health and healthcare systems , as well as cohesion , asylum , migration and border policies;


### policies for implementing the digital and the green transitions , e-government solutions , e-procurement , connectivity , data access and governance , e-learning , use of artificial intelligence based solutions , the environmental pillar of sustainable development and environmental protection , climate action , mobility , promoting the circular economy , energy and resource efficiency , renewable energy sources , achieving energy diversification and ensuring energy security , and for the agricultural sector , soil and biodiversity protection , fisheries and the sustainable development of rural areas; and ### policies for implementing the digital and the green transitions , e-government solutions , e-procurement , connectivity , data access and governance , e-learning , use of artificial intelligence based solutions , the environmental pillar of sustainable development and environmental protection , climate action , mobility , promoting the circular economy , energy and resource efficiency , renewable energy sources , achieving energy diversification and ensuring energy security , tackling energy poverty , and for the agricultural sector , soil and biodiversity protection , fisheries and the sustainable development of rural and remote areas; and


### financial sector policies , including: the promotion of financial literacy , financial stability , access to finance and lending to the real economy; and production , provision and quality monitoring of data and statistics. ### financial sector policies , including: the promotion of financial literacy , financial stability , access to finance and lending to the real economy with a special focus on smes; and production , provision and quality monitoring of data and statistics.


### financial sector policies , including: the promotion of financial literacy , financial stability , access to finance and lending to the real economy; and production , provision and quality monitoring of data and statistics. ### financial sector policies , including: the promotion of financial literacy , financial stability and financial regulation , access to finance and lending to the real economy; and production , provision and quality monitoring of data and statistics.


### 1. a member state wishing to receive technical support under the instrument shall submit a request for technical support to the commission , identifying the policy areas and the priorities for support within the scope as set out in article 5. these requests shall be submitted by 31 october of a calendar year. the commission may provide guidance on the main elements to be included in the request for support. ### 1. a member state wishing to receive technical support under the instrument shall submit a request for technical support to the commission , identifying the policy areas and the priorities for support within the scope as set out in article 5. these requests shall be submitted by 31 october of a calendar year. the commission may provide suggestions on the main elements to be included in the request for support.


### the implementation of reforms by member states , undertaken on their own initiative , in particular to support recovery [in line with regulation (eu) no yyy/xx] , achieve sustainable economic growth and job creation and enhance resilience; ### the implementation of reforms and investments by member states , undertaken on their own initiative , in particular to support recovery [in line with regulation (eu) no yyy/xx] , achieve fair , inclusive and sustainable social and economic growth , social inclusion and high-quality job creation and enhance resilience;


### the implementation of growth-sustaining and resilience-enhancing reforms in the context of economic governance processes , in particular the country-specific recommendations issued in the context of the european semester or actions related to the implementation of union law; ### actions related to the implementation of union law;


### based on that analysis , and taking into account the existing actions and measures financed by union funds or other union programmes , the commission shall come to an agreement with the member state concerned on the priority areas for support , the objectives , an indicative timeline , the scope of the support measures to be provided and the estimated global financial contribution for such technical support , which shall be set out in a cooperation and support plan. ### deleted


### 6. in order to implement the technical support , the commission shall adopt work programmes by way of implementing acts , and inform the european parliament and the council thereof. ### 6. in order to implement the technical support , the commission shall adopt work programmes by way of delegated acts.


### 6. in order to implement the technical support , the commission shall adopt work programmes by way of implementing acts , and inform the european parliament and the council thereof. ### 6. in order to study the implementation of the technical support , the commission shall follow the developments in each member state and inform the european parliament and the council thereof.


### ensure complementarity , synergy , coherence and consistency among different instruments at union , national and , where appropriate , regional levels , in particular in relation to measures financed by union funds , both in the planning phase and during implementation; ### study the complementarity , coherence and consistency among different instruments at union , national and , where appropriate , regional levels , in particular in relation to measures financed by union funds , both in the planning phase and during implementation;


### ensure close cooperation between those responsible for implementation at union , national and , where appropriate , regional levels to deliver coherent and streamlined support actions under the instrument. ### assess the close cooperation between those responsible for implementation at union , national and , where appropriate , regional levels to deliver coherent and streamlined support actions under the instrument.


### 2. the mid-term evaluation report shall , in particular , assess to which extent the objectives of the instrument referred to articles 3 and 4 have been achieved , the efficiency of the use of resources and the european added value. it shall also consider the continued relevance of all objectives and actions. ### 2. the mid-term evaluation report shall , in particular , assess to which extent the objectives of the instrument referred to articles 3 and 4 have been achieved , the efficiency of the use of resources and the european added value. it shall also consider the continued relevance of all objectives and actions. where necessary , the mid-term evaluation report shall be accompanied by legislative proposals for amending this regulation.


### (5) regulation (eu) 2017/825 of the european parliament and the council15 established the structural reform support programme (srsp) for the period 2017 to 2020 , with a budget of eur 142 800 000. the srsp was established to strengthen the capacity of member states to prepare and implement growth-sustaining administrative and structural reforms , including through assistance for the efficient and effective use of the union funds. technical support under that programme is provided by the commission , upon request from a member state , and can cover a wide range of policy areas. this regulation is designed as a continuation of that programme which has been positively received by the member states. ### (5) regulation (eu) 2017/825 of the european parliament and the council15 established the structural reform support programme (srsp) for the period 2017 to 2020 , with a budget of eur 142 800 000. the srsp was established to strengthen the capacity of member states to prepare and implement growth-sustaining administrative and structural reforms , including through assistance for the efficient and effective use of the union funds. technical support under that programme is provided by the commission , upon request from a member state , and can cover a wide range of policy areas. this regulation is designed as a continuation of that programme which has been positively received by the member states , while incorporating the necessary improvements and adjustments.


### (20) it is opportune that commission provides an annual report to the european parliament and the council on the implementation of this regulation. an independent mid-term evaluation , looking at the achievement of the objectives of the instrument established by this regulation , the efficiency of the use of its resources and its added value should be carried out. an independent ex-post evaluation should , in addition , deal with the long-term impact of the instrument. ### (20) it is opportune that commission provides an annual report to the european parliament and the council on the implementation of this regulation. an independent mid-term evaluation , looking at the achievement of the objectives of the instrument established by this regulation , the efficiency of the use of its resources and its added value should be carried out. where necessary , this mid-term evaluation report should be accompanied by legislative proposals for amending this regulation. an independent ex-post evaluation should , in addition , deal with the long-term impact of the instrument.


### it lays down the objectives of the instrument , the budget for the period 2021 – 2027 , the forms of union funding and the rules for providing such funding. ### it lays down the general and specific objectives of the instrument , the budget for the period 2021 – 2027 , the forms of union funding and the rules for providing such funding.


### public financial and asset management , budget process , macro-fiscal framework , debt and cash management , expenditure and tax policy , tax compliance , aggressive tax planning , tax fraud and evasion and revenue administration and customs union; ### public financial and asset management , budget process , macro-fiscal framework , debt and cash management , expenditure and tax policy , tax compliance , aggressive tax planning , tax fraud , tax evasion and tax avoidance and revenue administration and customs union;


### public financial and asset management , budget process , macro-fiscal framework , debt and cash management , expenditure and tax policy , tax compliance , aggressive tax planning , tax fraud and evasion and revenue administration and customs union; ### public financial and asset management , budget process , macro-fiscal framework , debt and cash management , expenditure and tax policy , tax compliance , the fight against aggressive tax planning , tax fraud and evasion and revenue administration and customs union;


### expertise related to policy advice , policy change , formulation of strategies and reform roadmaps , as well as to legislative , institutional , structural and administrative reforms; ### expertise related to policy advice , policy change , formulation of strategies and reform and investment roadmaps , as well as to legislative , institutional , structural and administrative reforms;


### institutional , administrative or sectoral capacity building and related supporting actions at all governance levels , also contributing to the empowerment of civil society , including social partners , as appropriate , in particular: ### institutional , administrative or sectoral capacity building and related supporting actions at all governance levels , also contributing to the empowerment of civil society , including social partners , including social partners such as trade unions and representatives of vulnerable social groups , in particular:


### the implementation of economic adjustment programmes for member states that receive union financial assistance under existing instruments , in particular in accordance with regulation (eu) no 472/2013 of the european parliament and of the council24 as regards the member states whose currency is the euro and council regulation (ec) no 332/200225 as regards member states whose currency is not the euro; ### deleted


### 3. taking into account the principles of transparency , equal treatment and sound financial management , and further to a dialogue with the member state , including in the context of the european semester , the commission shall analyse the request for support referred to in paragraph 1 based on the urgency , breadth and depth of the problems identified , support needs in respect of the policy areas concerned , analysis of socioeconomic indicators and general administrative capacity of the member state. ### 3. taking into account the principles of transparency , equal treatment and sound financial management , and further to a dialogue with the member state , the commission shall analyse the request for support referred to in paragraph 1 based on the urgency , breadth and depth of the problems identified , support needs in respect of the policy areas concerned , analysis of socioeconomic indicators and general administrative capacity of the member state.


### 3. taking into account the principles of transparency , equal treatment and sound financial management , and further to a dialogue with the member state , including in the context of the european semester , the commission shall analyse the request for support referred to in paragraph 1 based on the urgency , breadth and depth of the problems identified , support needs in respect of the policy areas concerned , analysis of socioeconomic indicators and general administrative capacity of the member state. ### 3. taking into account the principles of transparency , equal treatment and sound financial management , and further to a dialogue with the member state , the commission shall analyse the request for support referred to in paragraph 1 based on the urgency , breadth and depth of the problems and challenges identified , support needs in respect of the policy areas concerned , analysis of socioeconomic indicators and general administrative capacity of the member state.


### 1. the commission shall implement the instrument in accordance with the financial regulation. ### 1. the commission shall implement the instrument in accordance with the financial regulation and regulation (eu) no yyy/xx regarding the protection of the union's budget in case of generalised deficiencies as regards the rule of law in the member states.


### optimise mechanisms for coordination to avoid duplication of effort; and ### promote mechanisms for coordination to avoid duplication of effort; and


### 2. the commission shall endeavour to ensure complementarity and synergies with support provided by other relevant international organisations. ### deleted


### 1. the commission shall monitor the implementation of the instrument and measure the achievement of the general and specific objectives set out in articles 3 and 4. indicators to be used for reporting on progress and for the purpose of monitoring and evaluation of this regulation towards the achievement of the general and specific objectives are set in the annex. the monitoring of implementation shall be targeted and proportionate to the activities carried out under the instrument. ### 1. the commission shall study the implementation of the instrument and measure the achievement of the general and specific objectives set out in articles 3 and 4. indicators to be used for reporting on progress and for the purpose of monitoring and evaluation of this regulation towards the achievement of the general and specific objectives are set in the annex. the assessment of implementation shall be targeted and proportionate to the activities carried out under the instrument.


### 1. the commission shall provide an annual report to the european parliament and the council on the implementation of this regulation. ### 1. the commission shall submit an annual report to the european parliament and the council on the implementation of this regulation.


### 1. four years after the entry into force of this regulation , the commission shall provide the european parliament , and the council , the european economic and social committee and the committee of the regions with an independent mid-term evaluation report on the implementation of this regulation. the commission shall also provide those institutions with an independent ex post evaluation report no later than three years after the end of the period specified in article 1. ### 1. four years after the entry into force of this regulation , the commission shall submit to the european parliament , the council , the european economic and social committee and the committee of the regions with an independent mid-term evaluation report on the implementation of this regulation. the commission shall also submit to those institutions an independent ex post evaluation report no later than three years after the end of the period specified in article 1.


### 3. the ex-post evaluation report shall consist of a global assessment of the implementation of this regulation and shall include information on its impact in the long-term. ### 3. the ex-post evaluation report shall consist of a global assessment of the implementation of this regulation and shall include information on its social and economic impact in the long-term.


### outcomes of the technical support activities provided , such as adoption of a strategy , adoption of a new law /act or modification of an existing one , adoption of (new) procedures and actions to enhance the implementation of reforms; ### outcomes of the technical support activities provided , such as adoption of a strategy , adoption of a new law /act or modification of an existing one , adoption of (new) procedures and actions to enhance the implementation of reforms and investments;


### the ex-post evaluation referred to in article 16 shall be undertaken by the commission also with the purpose of establishing the links between the technical support provided and the implementation of the relevant measures in the member state concerned with a view to enhancing resilience , sustainable growth , jobs and cohesion. ### the ex-post evaluation referred to in article 16 shall be undertaken by the commission also with the purpose of establishing the links between the technical support provided and the implementation of the relevant measures in the member state concerned with a view to enhancing resilience , fair , inclusive and sustainable economic and social growth , high-quality job creation and economic , social and territorial cohesion.


### proposal for a regulation of the european parliament and of the council amending regulation (eu) no 1303/2013 as regards exceptional additional resources and implementing arrangements under the investment for growth and jobs goal to provide assistance for fostering crisis repair in the context of the covid-19 pandemic and preparing a green , digital and resilient recovery of the economy (react-eu) ### proposal for a regulation of the european parliament and of the council amending regulation (eu) no 1303/2013 as regards exceptional additional resources and implementing arrangements under the investment for growth and jobs goal to provide assistance for fostering crisis repair in the context of the covid-19 pandemic and preparing a just green , digital and resilient recovery of the economy (react-eu)


### (5) an additional exceptional amount of eur 58 272 800 000 (in current prices) for budgetary commitment from the structural funds under the investment for growth and jobs goal , for the years 2020 , 2021 and 2022 should be made available to support member states and regions most impacted in crisis repair in the context of the covid-19 pandemic or preparing a green , digital and resilient recovery of the economy , with a view to deploying resources quickly to the real economy through the existing operational programmes. resources for 2020 stem from an increase in the resources available for economic , social and territorial cohesion in the multiannual financial framework for 2014-2020 whereas resources for 2021 and 2022 stem from the european union recovery instrument. part of the additional resources should be allocated to technical assistance at the initiative of the commission. the commission should set out the breakdown of the remaining additional resources for each member state on the basis of an allocation method based on the latest available objective statistical data concerning member states’ relative prosperity and the extent of the effect of the current crisis on their economies and societies. the allocation method should include a dedicated additional amount for the outermost regions given the specific vulnerability of their economies and societies. in order to reflect the evolving nature of the effects of the crisis , the breakdown should be revised in 2021 on the basis of the same allocation method using the latest statistical data available by 19 october 2021 to distribute the 2022 tranche of the additional resources. ### (5) an additional exceptional amount of eur 58 272 800 000 (in current prices) for budgetary commitment from the structural funds under the investment for growth and jobs goal , for the years 2020 , 2021 and 2022 should be made available to support member states and regions most impacted in crisis repair in the context of the covid-19 pandemic or preparing a just green , digital and resilient recovery of the economy , with a view to deploying resources quickly to the real economy through the existing operational programmes. resources for 2020 stem from an increase in the resources available for economic , social and territorial cohesion in the multiannual financial framework for 2014-2020 whereas resources for 2021 and 2022 stem from the european union recovery instrument. part of the additional resources should be allocated to technical assistance at the initiative of the commission. the commission should set out the breakdown of the remaining additional resources for each member state on the basis of an allocation method based on the latest available objective statistical data concerning member states’ relative prosperity and the extent of the effect of the current crisis on their economies and societies. the allocation method should include a dedicated additional amount for the outermost regions given the specific vulnerability of their economies and societies. in order to reflect the evolving nature of the effects of the crisis , the breakdown should be revised in 2021 on the basis of the same allocation method using the latest statistical data available by 19 october 2021 to distribute the 2022 tranche of the additional resources.


### (7) in order to allow maximum flexibility to member states for tailoring crisis repair actions in the context of the covid-19 pandemic or preparing a green , digital and resilient recovery of the economy , allocations should be established by the commission at member state level. furthermore , the possibility for using any additional resources to support aid for the most deprived should also be provided for. in addition , it is necessary to establish ceilings concerning the allocation to technical assistance at the initiative of the member states while allowing maximum flexibility to the member states as to its allocation within operational programmes supported by the erdf or the esf. it should be clarified that there is no need to respect the esf minimum share for the additional resources. taking account of the expected quick spending of the additional resources , the commitments linked to those additional resources should only be decommitted at the closure of the operational programmes. ### (7) in order to allow maximum flexibility to member states for tailoring crisis repair actions in the context of the covid-19 pandemic and preparing a just green , digital and resilient recovery of the economy , allocations should be established by the commission at member state level. furthermore , the possibility for using any additional resources to support aid for the most deprived should also be provided for. in addition , it is necessary to establish ceilings concerning the allocation to technical assistance at the initiative of the member states while allowing maximum flexibility to the member states as to its allocation within operational programmes supported by the erdf or the esf. taking account of the expected quick spending of the additional resources , the commitments linked to those additional resources should only be decommitted at the closure of the operational programmes.


### (9) in order to complement the actions already available under the scope of support of the erdf , as extended by regulations (eu) 2020/460 and (eu) 2020/558 of the european parliament and of the council5 , member states should continue to be allowed to use the additional resources primarily for investments in products and services for health services , for providing support in the form of working capital or investment support to smes , in operations contributing to the transition towards a digital and green economy , infrastructure providing basic services to citizens or economic support measures for those regions most dependent on sectors most affected by the crisis. technical assistance should also be supported. it is appropriate that the additional resources are focused exclusively under the new thematic objective “fostering crisis repair in the context of the covid-19 pandemic and preparing a green , digital and resilient recovery of the economy” , which should also constitute a single investment priority , to allow for simplified programming and implementation of the additional resources. ### (9) in order to complement the actions already available under the scope of support of the erdf , as extended by regulations (eu) 2020/460 and (eu) 2020/558 of the european parliament and of the council5 , member states should continue to be allowed to use the additional resources primarily for investments in products and services for health services and social services of general interest , for providing support in the form of working capital or investment support to smes , in operations contributing to the just transition towards a digital and green economy , infrastructure providing basic services to citizens or economic support measures for those regions most dependent on sectors most affected by the crisis. technical assistance should also be supported. it is appropriate that the additional resources are focused under the new thematic objective “fostering crisis repair in the context of the covid-19 pandemic and preparing a just green , digital and resilient recovery of the economy” , which should also constitute a single investment priority , to allow for simplified programming and implementation of the additional resources.


### (10) for the esf , member states should primarily use the additional resources to support job maintenance , including through short-time work schemes and support to self-employed , job creation , in particular for people in vulnerable situations , support to youth employment measures , education and training , skills development and to enhance access to social services of general interest , including for children. it should be clarified that in the present exceptional circumstances support to short-time work schemes for employees and the self-employed in the context of the covid-19 pandemic can be provided even when that support is not combined with active labour market measures , unless the latter are imposed by national law. union support to those short-time work schemes should be limited in time. ### (10) for the esf , member states should primarily use the additional resources to support job maintenance , including through short-time work schemes and support to self-employed , self-employed professionals and freelancers , artists and creative workers in precarious working conditions , job creation , in particular for people in vulnerable situations , support to youth employment measures , education and training , skills development , support to the social economy and to enhance access to social services of general interest , including for children. it should be clarified that in the present exceptional circumstances support to short-time work schemes for employees and the self-employed in the context of the covid-19 pandemic can be provided even when that support is not combined with active labour market measures , unless the latter are imposed by national law. union support to those short-time work schemes should be limited in time.


### (11) in order to ensure that member states have sufficient financial means to swiftly implement crisis repair actions in the context of the covid-19 pandemic and preparing a green , digital and resilient recovery of the economy , it is necessary to provide a higher level of initial pre-financing payment for the quick implementation of actions supported by the additional resources. the initial pre-financing to be paid should ensure that member states have the means to arrange for advance payments to beneficiaries where necessary and to reimburse beneficiaries quickly following the submission of payment claims. ### (11) in order to ensure that member states have sufficient financial means to swiftly implement crisis repair actions in the context of the covid-19 pandemic and preparing a just green , digital and resilient recovery of the economy , it is necessary to provide a higher level of initial pre-financing payment for the quick implementation of actions supported by the additional resources. the initial pre-financing to be paid should ensure that member states have the means to arrange for advance payments to beneficiaries where necessary and to reimburse beneficiaries quickly following the submission of payment claims.


### (14) in order to enable member states to deploy the additional resources for crisis repair quickly in the context of the covid-19 pandemic and preparing a green , digital and resilient recovery of the economy within the current programming period , it is justified to exempt , on an exceptional basis , member states from the need to comply with ex ante conditionalities and requirements on the performance reserve and application of the performance framework , on thematic concentration , also in relation to the thresholds established for sustainable urban development for the erdf , and requirements on preparation of a communication strategy for the additional resources. it is nevertheless necessary that member states carry out at least one evaluation by 31 december 2024 to assess the effectiveness , efficiency and impact of the additional resources as well as how they contributed to achieving the goals of the new dedicated thematic objective. to facilitate the availability of comparable information at union level , member states are encouraged to make use of the programme-specific indicators made available by the commission. in addition , while carrying out their responsibilities linked to information , communication and visibility , member states and managing authorities should enhance the visibility of the exceptional measures and resources introduced by the union , in particular by ensuring that potential beneficiaries , beneficiaries , participants , final recipients of financial instruments and the general public are aware of the existence , volume and additional support stemming from the additional resources. ### (14) in order to enable member states to deploy the additional resources for crisis repair quickly in the context of the covid-19 pandemic and preparing a just green , digital and resilient recovery of the economy within the current programming period , it is justified to exempt , on an exceptional basis , member states from the need to comply with ex ante conditionalities and requirements on the performance reserve and application of the performance framework , on thematic concentration , also in relation to the thresholds established for sustainable urban development for the erdf , and requirements on preparation of a communication strategy for the additional resources. it is nevertheless necessary that member states carry out at least one evaluation by 31 december 2024 to assess the effectiveness , efficiency and impact of the additional resources as well as how they contributed to achieving the goals of the new dedicated thematic objective. to facilitate the availability of comparable information at union level , member states are encouraged to make use of the programme-specific indicators made available by the commission. in addition , while carrying out their responsibilities linked to information , communication and visibility , member states and managing authorities should enhance the visibility of the exceptional measures and resources introduced by the union , in particular by ensuring that potential beneficiaries , beneficiaries , participants , final recipients of financial instruments and the general public are aware of the existence , volume and additional support stemming from the additional resources.


### 3. 0.35% of the additional resources shall be allocated to technical assistance at the initiative of the commission. ### 3. 0.35% of the additional resources shall be allocated to technical assistance at the initiative of the commission , with a special focus on member states hit harder by the pandemic and member states with lower absorption and implementation rates.


### exceptional additional resources and implementing arrangements for the investment for growth and jobs goal to provide assistance for fostering crisis repair in the context of the covid-19 pandemic and preparing a green , digital and resilient recovery of the economy (react-eu) ### exceptional additional resources and implementing arrangements for the investment for growth and jobs goal to provide assistance for fostering crisis repair in the context of the covid-19 pandemic and preparing a just green , digital and resilient recovery of the economy (react-eu)


### 1. the additional resources referred to in articles 91(1a) and 92a (‘the additional resources’) shall be made available under the investment for growth and jobs goal to provide assistance for fostering crisis repair in the context of the covid-19 pandemic and preparing a green , digital and resilient recovery of the economy (react-eu). the additional resources shall be used to implement technical assistance pursuant to paragraph 6 of this article and the operations implementing the thematic objective in paragraph 10 of this article. ### 1. the additional resources referred to in articles 91(1a) and 92a (‘the additional resources’) shall be made available under the investment for growth and jobs goal to provide assistance for fostering crisis repair in the context of the covid-19 pandemic and preparing a just green , digital and resilient recovery of the economy (react-eu). the additional resources shall be used to implement technical assistance pursuant to paragraph 6 of this article and the operations implementing the thematic objective in paragraph 10 of this article.


### 8. the additional resources not allocated to technical assistance shall be used under the thematic objective set out in paragraph 10 to support operations fostering crisis repair in the context of the covid-19 pandemic or preparing a green , digital and resilient recovery of the economy. ### 8. the additional resources not allocated to technical assistance shall be used under the thematic objective set out in paragraph 10 to support operations fostering crisis repair in the context of the covid-19 pandemic or preparing a just green , digital and resilient recovery of the economy.


### for the erdf , the additional resources shall primarily be used to support investment in products and services for health services , to provide support in the form of working capital or investment support to smes , investments contributing to the transition towards a digital and green economy , investments in infrastructure providing basic services to citizens , and economic measures in the regions which are most dependent on sectors most affected by the crisis. ### for the erdf , the additional resources shall primarily be used to support investment in products and services for health services and social services of general interest , to provide support in the form of working capital or investment support to smes and social economy enterprises , investments contributing to the transition towards a just digital and green economy , investments in infrastructure providing basic services to citizens , and economic measures in the regions which are most dependent on sectors most affected by the crisis.


### for the esf , the additional resources shall primarily be used to support job maintenance , including through short-time work schemes and support to self-employed , even when that support is not combined with active labour market measures , unless the latter are imposed by national law. the additional resources shall also support job creation , in particular for people in vulnerable situations , youth employment measures , education and training , skills development , in particular to support the twin green and digital transitions , and to enhance access to social services of general interest , including for children. ### for the esf , the additional resources shall primarily be used to support job maintenance , including in the social economy and through short-time work schemes and support to self-employed , self-employed professionals and freelancers , artists and creative workers in precarious working conditions , even when that support is not combined with active labour market measures , unless the latter are imposed by national law. the additional resources shall also support job creation , in particular for people in vulnerable situations , youth employment measures , education and training , skills development , in particular to support the twin just green and digital transitions , and to enhance access to social services of general interest , including for children.


### 9. with the exception of technical assistance referred to in paragraph 6 and of the additional resources used for the fead referred to in the seventh subparagraph of paragraph 5 , the additional resources shall support operations under the new thematic objective “fostering crisis repair in the context of the covid-19 pandemic and preparing a green , digital and resilient recovery of the economy” , complementing the thematic objectives set out in article 9. ### 9. with the exception of technical assistance referred to in paragraph 6 and of the additional resources used for the fead referred to in the seventh subparagraph of paragraph 5 , the additional resources shall support operations under the new thematic objective “fostering crisis repair in the context of the covid-19 pandemic and preparing a just green , digital and resilient recovery of the economy” , complementing the thematic objectives set out in article 9.


### by way of derogation from article 30(1) , requests for the amendment of a programme submitted by a member state shall be duly justified and shall in particular set out expected impact of the changes to the programme on fostering crisis repair in the context of the covid-19 pandemic and preparing a green , digital and resilient recovery of the economy. they shall be accompanied by the revised programme. ### by way of derogation from article 30(1) , requests for the amendment of a programme submitted by a member state shall be duly justified and shall in particular set out expected impact of the changes to the programme on fostering crisis repair in the context of the covid-19 pandemic and preparing a just green , digital and resilient recovery of the economy. they shall be accompanied by the revised programme.


### by way of derogation from article 96(2)(a) , where such a new operational programme is established , the justification shall set out the expected impact of the operational programme on fostering crisis repair in the context of the covid-19 pandemic and preparing a green , digital and resilient recovery of the economy. ### by way of derogation from article 96(2)(a) , where such a new operational programme is established , the justification shall set out the expected impact of the operational programme on fostering crisis repair in the context of the covid-19 pandemic and preparing a just green , digital and resilient recovery of the economy.


### methodology on the allocation of exceptional additional resources for the investment for growth and jobs goal to provide assistance for fostering crisis repair in the context of the covid-19 pandemic and preparing a green , digital and resilient recovery of the economy per member state – article 92b(4) ### methodology on the allocation of exceptional additional resources for the investment for growth and jobs goal to provide assistance for fostering crisis repair in the context of the covid-19 pandemic and preparing a just green , digital and resilient recovery of the economy per member state – article 92b(4)


### before the application of the method described in paragraphs 1 and 2 concerning the additional resources for the year 2020 , an amount corresponding to an aid intensity of eur 30 per inhabitant will be allocated to the outermost nuts level 2 regions from the allocation. that allocation will be distributed per region and member state in a manner proportional to the total population of those regions. the remaining amount for the year 2020 will be distributed among member states in accordance with the method described in paragraphs 1 and 2. ### before the application of the method described in paragraphs 1 and 2 concerning the additional resources for the year 2020 , an amount corresponding to an aid intensity of eur 30 per inhabitant will be allocated to the outermost nuts level 2 regions from the allocation. that additional , complementary allocation will be distributed per region and member state in a manner proportional to the total population of those regions. this allocation shall be added to the allocation that every outermost region will receive through the distribution of the national budget as calculated in line with paragraphs 1 and 2. the remaining amount for the year 2020 will be distributed among member states in accordance with the method described in paragraphs 1 and 2.


### (2) on 17 november 2017 , the european pillar of social rights was jointly proclaimed by the european parliament , the council and the commission as a response to social challenges in europe. the twenty key principles of the pillar are structured around three categories: equal opportunities and access to the labour market; fair working conditions; social protection and inclusion. the twenty principles of the european pillar of social rights should guide the actions in response to the covid-19 pandemic in order to ensure a socially fair recovery. ### (2) on 17 november 2017 , the european pillar of social rights was jointly proclaimed by the european parliament , the council and the commission as a response to social challenges in europe. the twenty key principles of the pillar are structured around three categories: equal opportunities and access to the labour market; fair working conditions; social protection and inclusion. the twenty principles of the european pillar of social rights should guide the actions in response to the covid-19 pandemic in order to ensure a socially fair and resilient recovery.


### (3) member states have been affected by the consequences of the covid-19 pandemic crisis in an unprecedented manner. the crisis has led to severe economic and social consequences. this has created an exceptional situation which needs to be addressed with specific measures in line with the european pillar of social rights. ### (3) member states have been affected by the consequences of the covid-19 pandemic crisis in an unprecedented manner. the crisis has led to severe economic and social consequences aggravating the already very difficult situation of more than 100 million people living in poverty and social exclusion and putting at risk many more citizens and households. this has created an exceptional situation which needs to be urgently addressed with specific measures in line with the european pillar of social rights and a european anti-poverty strategy.


### (4) this has a particular impact on the fead. considering that the number of people suffering from food and material deprivation has been increasing due to the covid-19 pandemic and that the most deprived are exposed to particular risks and further hardships during this crisis , member states are facing additional funding needs in the delivery of support by the fund. ### (4) this has a particular impact on the fead. considering that across all the union a considerable number of people were already suffering from food and material deprivation (13 million people were receiving support from fead annually , including approximately 4 million children) , figures that are increasing due to the covid-19 pandemic , with the most deprived being more exposed to particular risks and further hardships during this crisis , member states are facing additional funding needs in the delivery of support by the fund.


### (6) the commission issued a proposal for a regulation11 amending council regulation (eu , euratom) no 1311/201312 on 27 may 2020 and unlocked additional resources to support member states in crisis repair in the context of the covid-19 pandemic and preparing the recovery of the economy. as part of this package , an additional exceptional amount of eur 58 272 800 000 for budgetary commitment from the structural funds under the investment for growth and jobs goal , for the years 2020 , 2021 and 2022 is made available for this purpose , with a view to deploying them quickly for the real economy through the existing structures for the 2014-2020 cohesion policy programmes. the commission should set out the breakdown of the additional resources for each member state on the basis of an allocation method based on the latest available objective statistical data concerning member states’ relative prosperity and the extent of the effect of the current crisis on their economies. in order to reflect the evolving nature of the effects of the crisis , the breakdown should be revised in 2021 on the basis of the same allocation method using the latest statistical data available by 19 october 2021. in order to provide for an effective response to the social impact of the covid-19 outbreak on the most deprived , it is appropriate that the additional resources may be allocated by member states to the fead , in accordance with their needs. in doing so , member states should pay due attention to the increases in the number of the most deprived since the covid-19 pandemic. in addition , it is necessary to establish ceilings concerning the allocation of the increased resources to technical assistance of the member state. taking account of the expected quick spending of the additional resources , the commitments linked to these additional resources should also be decommitted at the closure of the programmes. possibilities for financial transfers under the investment for growth and jobs goal between the erdf , the esf and the fead are also introduced for the additional resources. ### (6) the commission issued a proposal for a regulation11 amending council regulation (eu , euratom) no 1311/201312 on 27 may 2020 and unlocked additional resources to support member states in crisis repair in the context of the covid-19 pandemic and preparing the social recovery. as part of this package , an additional exceptional amount of eur 58 272 800 000 for budgetary commitment from the structural funds under the investment for growth and jobs goal , for the years 2020 , 2021 and 2022 is made available for this purpose , with a view to deploying them quickly for the real economy through the existing structures for the 2014-2020 cohesion policy programmes. the commission should set out the breakdown of the additional resources for each member state on the basis of an allocation method based on the latest available objective statistical data concerning member states’ poverty and social exclusion and the extent of the effect of the current crisis on their economies , particularly on the most deprived people , paying specific attention to those usually invisible to statistics , such as homeless people , roma , prisoners and other persons living in institutions. this data should count with the direct participation of people experiencing poverty and the organisations representing them. in order to reflect the evolving nature of the effects of the crisis , the breakdown should be revised in 2021 on the basis of the same allocation method using the latest statistical data available by 19 october 2021. in order to provide for an effective response to the social impact of the covid-19 outbreak on the most deprived , it is appropriate that the additional resources may be allocated by member states to the fead , in accordance with their needs. in doing so , member states should pay due attention to the increases in the number of the most deprived since the covid-19 pandemic. in addition , it is necessary to establish ceilings concerning the allocation of the increased resources to technical assistance of the member state. taking account of the expected quick spending of the additional resources , the commitments linked to these additional resources should also be decommitted at the closure of the programmes. possibilities for financial transfers under the investment for growth and jobs goal between the erdf , the esf and the fead are also introduced for the additional resources.


### (8) in order to ensure that member states have sufficient financial means to swiftly implement crisis repair actions in the context of the covid-19 pandemic and prepare the recovery of the economy , it is necessary to provide a higher level of pre-financing payment for the quick implementation of actions supported by the additional resources. the magnitude of the pre-financing should ensure that member states have the means to arrange for advance payments to beneficiaries where necessary and to reimburse beneficiaries quickly following the submission of payment claims. ### (8) in order to ensure that member states have sufficient extra financial means to swiftly implement crisis repair actions in the context of the covid-19 pandemic facing its impact on poverty and social exclusion and prepare a resilient social and economic recovery , it is necessary to provide a higher level of pre-financing payment for the quick implementation of actions supported by the additional resources. the magnitude of the pre-financing should ensure that member states have the means to arrange for advance payments to beneficiaries where necessary and to reimburse beneficiaries quickly following the submission of payment claims.


### (9) with a view to alleviating the burden on public budgets regarding crisis repair in the context of the covid-19 pandemic and preparing the recovery of the economy , it is appropriate that the additional resources are not subject to co-financing. ### (9) with a view to alleviating the burden on public budgets regarding crisis repair in the context of the covid-19 pandemic and preparing a resilient social and economic recovery , it is appropriate that the additional resources are not subject to co-financing.


### 2. appreciates the foundation’s activities to support the reform of vocational training in the union’s partner countries; ### 2. appreciates the foundation’s activities to support the reform of vocational training in the union’s partner countries; stresses the necessity of providing the agencies with enough material and human resources to fulfil their tasks in a proper manner , while ensuring their pre-eminence over private contractors;


### 3. appreciates eurofound’s work to provide knowledge and expertise to support policies on improving living and working conditions across the union; ### 3. appreciates eurofound’s work to provide knowledge and expertise to support policies on improving living and working conditions across the union; stresses the necessity of providing the agencies with enough material and human resources to fulfil their tasks in a proper manner , while ensuring their pre-eminence over private contractors;


### 4. appreciates the foundation’s cooperation with other eu agencies under the remit of dg employment; ### 4. appreciates the foundation’s cooperation with other eu agencies under the remit of dg employment within and beyond the framework of the eu agencies' performance development network , allowing to build synergies and to exchange ideas and best practices and aiming to achieve more balanced governance , improved efficiency , reduced costs and greater coherence between them; stresses the necessity of improving cooperation between the agencies and eu institutions , avoiding the externalisation of services that can be provided by them;


### 1. emphasises that the agencies are highly visible in the member states and have significant influence on policy , decision making and programme implementation in areas of vital importance to european citizens , such as security , safety , health , research , economic affairs , freedom and justice; reiterates the importance of the tasks performed by the agencies and their direct impact on the daily lives of union citizens; reiterates also the importance of the autonomy of the agencies , in particular of the regulatory agencies and those with the function of independent collection of information; recalls that the main reasons for establishing the agencies were for the purpose of operating union systems , facilitating the implementation of the european single market and making independent technical or scientific assessments; welcomes in this regard the effective overall performance of the agencies , and the progress made in enhancing their visibility to european citizens; ### 1. emphasises that the agencies are highly visible in the member states and have significant influence on policy , decision making and programme implementation in areas of vital importance to european citizens , such as security , safety , health , research , economic affairs , freedom and justice; reiterates the importance of the tasks performed by the agencies and their direct impact on the daily lives of union citizens; reiterates also the importance of the autonomy of the agencies , in particular of the regulatory agencies and those with the function of independent collection of information; recalls that the main reasons for establishing the agencies were for the purpose of operating union systems , facilitating the implementation of the european single market and making independent technical or scientific assessments; welcomes in this regard the effective overall performance of the agencies , and the progress made in enhancing their visibility to european citizens , even if recognising the need for further improvement;


### 2. notes with satisfaction that , according to the annual report of the european court of auditors’ (the 'court') on union agencies for the financial year 2018 (the 'court’s report') , the court issued an unqualified audit opinion on the reliability of the accounts of all agencies; notes in addition that the court issued an unqualified opinion on the legality and regularity of the revenue underlying the accounts for all agencies; observes that the court issued an unqualified opinion on the legality and regularity of the payments underlying the accounts for all agencies , except for the european asylum support office (easo); points out with regret that for easo’s payments for the financial years 2016 and 2017 , the court issued a qualified opinion; ### 2. notes with satisfaction that , according to the annual report of the european court of auditors’ (the 'court') on union agencies for the financial year 2018 (the 'court’s report') , the court issued an unqualified audit opinion on the reliability of the accounts of all agencies; notes in addition that the court issued an unqualified opinion on the legality and regularity of the revenue underlying the accounts for all agencies; observes that the court issued an unqualified opinion on the legality and regularity of the payments underlying the accounts for all agencies , except for the european asylum support office (easo); points out with regret that for easo’s payments for the financial years 2016 and 2017 , the court issued an adverse opinion while for the financial year 2018 it issued a qualified opinion;


### 22. notes that on 2 april 2019 a workshop was organised upon request of the committee on petitions on "conflicts of interest: integrity , accountability and transparency in eu institutions and agencies" during which the preliminary findings of an upcoming study on "conflicts of interests and eu agencies" were presented; notes that the study , which is expected to be published in january 2020 , will provide a comprehensive overview and analysis of the policies on avoidance of conflicts of interest in the different agencies and that it will also make recommendations in relation to improved scrutiny of conflict of interest policies in agencies; calls on the network to report to the discharge authority on developments on application and possible changes in terms of conflict of interest regulations and policies; ### 22. notes that on 2 april 2019 a workshop was organised upon request of the committee on petitions on "conflicts of interest: integrity , accountability and transparency in eu institutions and agencies" during which the preliminary findings of an upcoming study on "conflicts of interests and eu agencies" were presented; regrets that the study is only expected to be published in january 2020 , while the date of the presentation was supposed to be july 2019; it will provide a comprehensive overview and analysis of the policies on avoidance of conflicts of interest in the different agencies and that it will also make recommendations in relation to improved scrutiny of conflict of interest policies in agencies; calls on the network to report to the discharge authority on developments on application and possible changes in terms of conflict of interest regulations and policies;


### 3. appreciates eu-osha’s activities to develop , gather and provide reliable and relevant information , analysis and tools on occupational safety and health which contribute to the eu policy aiming to promote healthy and safe workplaces across the union; ### 3. appreciates eu-osha’s activities to develop , gather and provide reliable and relevant information , analysis and tools on occupational safety and health which contribute to the eu policy aiming to promote healthy and safe workplaces across the union; stresses the necessity of providing the agencies with enough material and human resources to fulfil their tasks in a proper manner , while ensuring their pre-eminence over private contractors;


### 4. welcomes the fact that in 2018 , eu-osha , together with the other eu agencies under the remit of dg employment , initiated an analysis on how synergies could be further exploited within the existing framework , especially in relation to the performance monitoring framework; ### 4. welcomes the fact that in 2018 , eu-osha , together with the other eu agencies under the remit of dg employment , initiated an analysis on how synergies could be further exploited within the existing framework , especially within and beyond the framework of the eu agencies' performance development network , allowing to build synergies and to exchange ideas and best practices and aiming to achieve more balanced governance , improved efficiency , reduced costs and greater coherence between them; stresses the necessity of improving cooperation between the agencies and eu institutions , avoiding the externalisation of services that can be provided by them;


### 3. appreciates the centre’s work to provide research , analyses and technical advice in vocational education and training (vet) , qualifications and skills policies; ### 3. appreciates the centre’s work to provide research , analyses and technical advice in vocational education and training (vet) , qualifications and skills policies; stresses the necessity of providing the agencies with enough material and human resources to fulfil their tasks in a proper manner , while ensuring their pre-eminence over private contractors;


### 4. appreciates the centre’s cooperation with other agencies under the remit of the committee on employment and social affairs; ### 4. appreciates the centre’s cooperation with other agencies under the remit of the committee on employment and social affairs within and beyond the framework of the eu agencies' performance development network , allowing to build synergies and to exchange ideas and best practices and aiming to achieve more balanced governance , improved efficiency , reduced costs and greater coherence between them; stresses the necessity of improving cooperation between the agencies and the eu institutions , avoiding the externalisation of services that can be provided by them;


### 10. acknowledges that , in light of the observations and comments from the discharge authority , the centre has drafted rules related to the publication of management board meetings minutes; urges the centre to quickly adopt them; calls on the centre to report to the discharge authority on the progress made regarding this matter; ### 10. welcomes that , in light of the observations and comments from the discharge authority , the centre has adopted the implementing rules concerning regulation (ec) n°1049/2001 on public access to documents on the 2nd of september 2019; calls on the centre to report to the discharge authority on the progress made regarding this matter;


### (6) this directive should cover employment relationships between third-country workers and employers. where a member state’s national law allows admission of third-country nationals through temporary work agencies established on its territory and which have an employment relationship with the worker , such agencies should not be excluded from the scope of this directive. ### (6) this directive should cover employment relationships or contracts between third-country workers and employers , in accordance with national law , practice and collective agreements. where a member state’s national law allows admission of third-country nationals through temporary work agencies established on its territory and which have an employment relationship or contract with the worker , such agencies should not be excluded from the scope of this directive.


### (8) third-country nationals who are beneficiaries of protection in accordance with national law , international obligations or the practice of a member state should be covered by the scope of this directive in order to be granted an enhanced set of rights. ### (8) third-country nationals who are beneficiaries of protection in accordance with national law , international obligations or the practice of a member state , as well as third-country nationals who have applied for international protection and undocumented workers , should be covered by the scope of this directive in order to be granted an enhanced set of rights.


### (12) the provisions of this directive on the single application procedure and on the single permit should not concern uniform or long-stay visas , with the exception of the obligation for member states to issue the requisite visa within the deadline of four months set out to adopt a decision on the single permit . ### (12) the provisions of this directive on the single application procedure and on the single permit should not concern uniform or long-stay visas , with the exception of the obligation for member states to issue the requisite visa within the deadline of 90 days set out to adopt a decision on the single permit .


### (15) the designation of the competent authority under this directive should be without prejudice to the role and responsibilities of other authorities and , where applicable , the social partners , with regard to the examination of , and the decision on , the application. ### (15) the designation of the competent authority under this directive should be without prejudice to the role and responsibilities of other authorities and , where applicable , the social partners , with regard to the examination of , and the decision on , the application , as well as monitoring , implementing and enforcing labour standards and social security regulations , facilitation of complaints and legal redress.


### (16) the deadline for adopting a decision on the application should , however , not include the time required for the recognition of professional qualifications . this directive should be without prejudice to national procedures on the recognition of diplomas. ### (16) the deadline for adopting a decision on the application should , however , not include the time required for the recognition of professional and occupational qualifications . this directive should be without prejudice to national procedures on the recognition of diplomas.


### (19) the provisions of this directive on the single permit and on the residence permit issued for purposes other than work should not prevent member states from issuing an additional paper document in order to be able to give more precise information on the employment relationship for which the format of the residence permit leaves insufficient space. such a document can serve to prevent the exploitation of third-country nationals and combat illegal employment but should be optional for member states and should not serve as a substitute for a work permit thereby compromising the concept of the single permit. technical possibilities offered by article 4 of regulation (ec) no 1030/2002 and point (a)20 of the annex thereto can also be used to store such information in an electronic format. ### (19) the provisions of this directive on the single permit and on the residence permit issued for purposes other than work should not prevent member states from issuing an additional paper document in order to be able to give more precise information on the employment relationship or contract conditions for which the format of the residence permit leaves insufficient space. such a document can serve to prevent the exploitation of third-country nationals and combat illegal employment but should be optional for member states and should not serve as a substitute for a work permit thereby compromising the concept of the single permit. changes in such employment relationship and conditions should not constitute a change of employer for the purposes of the single permit. technical possibilities offered by article 4 of regulation (ec) no 1030/2002 and point (a)20 of the annex thereto can also be used to store such information in an electronic format.


### (22) in the absence of horizontal union legislation , the rights of third-country nationals vary , depending on the member state in which they work and on their nationality. with a view to developing further a coherent immigration policy and narrowing the rights gap between citizens of the union and third-country nationals legally working in a member state and complementing the existing immigration acquis , a set of rights should be laid down in order , in particular , to specify the fields in which equal treatment between a member state’s own nationals and such third-country nationals who are not yet long-term residents is provided. such provisions are intended to establish a minimum level playing field within the union , to recognise that such third-country nationals contribute to the union economy through their work and tax payments and to serve as a safeguard to reduce unfair competition between a member state’s own nationals and third-country nationals resulting from the possible exploitation of the latter. a third–country worker in this directive should be defined , without prejudice to the interpretation of the concept of employment relationship in other provisions of union law , as a third-country national who has been admitted to the territory of a member state , who is legally residing and who is allowed , in the context of a paid relationship , to work there in accordance with national law or practice. ### (22) in the absence of horizontal union legislation , the rights of third-country nationals vary , depending on the member state in which they work and on their nationality. with a view to developing further a coherent immigration policy and narrowing the rights gap between citizens of the union and third-country nationals legally working in a member state and complementing the existing immigration acquis , a set of rights should be laid down in order , in particular , to specify the fields in which equal treatment between a member state’s own nationals and such third-country nationals who are not yet long-term residents is provided. such provisions are intended to establish a minimum level playing field within the union , to recognise that such third-country nationals contribute to the union economy through their work and tax payments and to serve as a safeguard to reduce unfair competition between a member state’s own nationals and third-country nationals resulting from the possible exploitation of the latter. a third–country worker in this directive should be defined , without prejudice to the interpretation of the concept of employment relationship in other provisions of union law , as a third-country national who is legally residing and who is allowed , in the context of an employment relationship or contract , to work there in accordance with collective agreements , national law or practice.


### (25) working conditions as referred to in this directive should cover at least pay and dismissal , health and safety at the workplace , working time and leave taking into account collective agreements in force. ### (25) quality working conditions as referred to in this directive should cover at least remuneration , including protection of wages and minimum wages , occupational safety and health , working time , leave and dismissal , taking into account collective agreements in force.


### (26) a member state should recognise professional qualifications acquired by a third-country national in another member state in the same way as those of citizens of the union and should take into account qualifications acquired in a third country in accordance with directive 2005/36/ec of the european parliament and of the council47 . the right to equal treatment accorded to third-country workers as regards recognition of diplomas , certificates and other professional qualifications in accordance with the relevant national procedures should be without prejudice to the competence of member states to admit such third-country workers to their labour market. ### (26) a member state should recognise professional and occupational qualifications acquired by a third-country national in another member state in the same way as those of citizens of the union and should take into account qualifications acquired in a third country in accordance with directive 2005/36/ec of the european parliament and of the council47 . the right to equal treatment accorded to third-country workers as regards recognition of diplomas , certificates and other professional qualifications in accordance with the relevant national procedures should be without prejudice to the competence of member states to admit such third-country workers to their labour market.


### (27) third-country workers should enjoy equal treatment as regards social security. branches of social security are defined in regulation (ec) no 883/2004 of the european parliament and of the council48 . the provisions on equal treatment concerning social security in this directive should also apply to workers admitted to a member state directly from a third country. nevertheless , this directive should not confer on third-country workers more rights than those already provided in existing union law in the field of social security for third-country nationals who are in cross-border situations. ### (27) third-country workers should enjoy equal treatment as regards social security. branches of social security are defined in regulation (ec) no 883/2004 of the european parliament and of the council48 . the provisions on equal treatment concerning social security in this directive should also apply to workers admitted to a member state directly from a third country.


### (31) to reinforce the equal treatment of third-country workers , member states should provide for effective , proportionate and dissuasive penalties against employers in the event of infringements of national provisions adopted pursuant to this directive , in particular with regard to working conditions , freedom of association and affiliation and access to social security benefits. ### (31) to reinforce the equal treatment of third-country workers , member states should provide for effective , proportionate and dissuasive penalties against employers in the event of infringements of national provisions adopted pursuant to this directive , in particular with regard to fundamental principles and labour rights , including freedom of association and affiliation , the right to take industrial action and the right to strike , the right to collective bargaining , the principle of equal pay for work of equal value , protection against forced and child labour , protection against discrimination , working conditions and access to social security benefits.


### (32) to ensure the proper enforcement of this directive , member states should ensure that appropriate mechanisms are in place for the monitoring of employers and that , where appropriate , effective and adequate inspections are carried out on their respective territories. the selection of employers to be inspected should be based primarily on a risk assessment to be carried out by the competent authorities in the member states taking into account factors such as the sector in which a company operates and any past record of infringement. ### (32) to ensure the proper enforcement of this directive , member states should ensure , in cooperation with the social partners , in particular trade unions and relevant civil society organisations , that appropriate mechanisms are in place for the monitoring of employers and that , where appropriate , effective and adequate inspections are carried out on their respective territories , to detect breaches in labour and social law , in order to ensure quality working conditions. the selection of employers to be inspected should be based primarily on a risk assessment to be carried out by the competent authorities in the member states taking into account factors such as the sector in which a company operates and any past record of infringement.


### (33) member states should also put in place effective mechanisms through which third-country workers may seek legal redress and lodge complaints directly or through third parties having , in accordance with the criteria laid down by the national law , a legitimate interest in ensuring compliance with this directive , such as trade unions or other associations , or competent authorities. that is considered necessary to address situations where third-country workers are unaware of the existence of enforcement mechanisms or hesitant to use them in their own name , for example out of fear of possible consequences. ### (33) member states should also put in place effective , timely , transparent and gender responsive mechanisms through which third-country workers may seek legal redress and lodge complaints directly or through third parties having , in accordance with the criteria laid down by the national law , a legitimate interest in ensuring compliance with this directive , such as trade unions or other associations , or competent authorities. that is considered necessary to address situations where third-country workers are unaware of the existence of enforcement mechanisms or hesitant to use them in their own name , for example out of fear of possible consequences.


### (34) the single permit should authorise the third-country national to change the employer during the period of its validity. member states should be able to require a notification of the change and to check the labour market situation where a change of employer takes place. the single permit should not be withdrawn during a period of at least three months in the event of the unemployment of its holder. ### (34) the single permit should authorise the third-country national to change employer without restrictions during the period of its validity. member states should be able to require a notification of the change and to check the labour market situation where a change of employer takes place. the single permit should not be withdrawn during a period of at least nine months in the event of the unemployment of its holder. in the case of a third-country national’s incapacity to work due to pregnancy , disability or injury , accident or disease , in particular work-related , the calculation of the 9-month period should commence no earlier than the first day he/she regains capacity to work.


### ‘third-country worker’ means a third-country national who has been admitted to the territory of a member state and who is legally residing and is allowed to work in the context of an employment relationship in that member state in accordance with national law or practice; ### ‘third-country worker’ means a third-country national who is legally residing and is allowed to work in the context of an employment contract or employment relationship in that member state in accordance with collective agreements , national law or practice , with consideration to the case-law of the court of justice;


### third-country nationals who have been admitted to a member state for purposes other than work in accordance with union or national law , who are allowed to work and who hold a residence permit in accordance with regulation (ec) no 1030/2002; and ### third-country nationals who have been admitted to a member state for purposes other than work in accordance with union or national law , who are allowed to work and who hold a residence permit in accordance with regulation (ec) no 1030/2002;


### third-country nationals who have been admitted to a member state for the purpose of work in accordance with union or national law. ### third-country nationals who have been admitted to a member state for the purpose of work in accordance with union or national law , including seasonal workers , au pairs and seafarers;


### who are covered by directive 96/71/ec as long as they are posted on the territory of the member state concerned ; ### who are covered by directive 96/71/ec as long as they are genuinely posted on the territory of the member state concerned ;


### who have applied for admission or have been admitted to the territory of a member state as seasonal workers in accordance with directive 2014/36/eu or au pairs in accordance with directive (eu) 2016/801 ; ### deleted


### who are authorised to reside in a member state on the basis of temporary protection , or who have applied for authorisation to reside there on that basis and are awaiting a decision on their status; ### deleted


### who are beneficiaries of international protection under directive 2011/95/eu of the european parliament and of the council54 or who have applied for international protection under that directive and whose application has not been the subject of a final decision; ### deleted


### who have applied for admission or who have been admitted to the territory of a member state as self-employed workers; ### who have applied for admission or who have been admitted to the territory of a member state as genuinely self-employed workers;


### who have applied for admission or have been admitted as seafarers for employment or work in any capacity on board of a ship registered in or sailing under the flag of a member state. ### deleted


### 3. member states may decide that chapter ii does not apply to third-country nationals who have been either authorised to work in the territory of a member state for a period not exceeding six months or who have been admitted to a member state for the purpose of study. ### 3. member states may decide that chapter ii does not apply to third-country nationals who have been admitted to a member state for the purpose of study.


### the competent authority shall adopt a decision on the complete application as soon as possible and in any event within four months of the date on which the application was lodged. ### the competent authority shall adopt a decision on the complete application as soon as possible and in any event within 90 days of the date on which the application was lodged.


### the time limit referred to in the first subparagraph shall cover checking the labour market situation and issuing the requisite visa referred to in article 4(3). the time limit may be extended in exceptional circumstances , linked to the complexity of the examination of the application. ### the time limit referred to in the first subparagraph shall cover checking the criteria and conditions for issuing the permit as required by national law and issuing the requisite visa referred to in article 4(3). to meet this time limit , national authorities shall ensure sufficient human , material and it resources are available in the relevant services.


### where no decision is taken within the time limit provided for in this paragraph , any consequences shall be determined by national law. ### where no decision is taken within the time limit provided for in this paragraph , any fee required by the member states in accordance with article10 shall be reimbursed to the applicant.


### member states may indicate additional information related to the employment relationship of the third-country national (such as the name and address of the employer , place of work , type of work , working hours , remuneration) in paper format , or store such data in electronic format as referred to in article 4 of regulation (ec) no 1030/2002 and in point (a)20 of the annex thereto. ### member states shall indicate additional information related to the working conditions of offer(s) of the employment relationships or contracts to the third-country national , prior to the first working day , at least in relation to the name and address of the employer , habitual place of work , type of work , working hours and remuneration in paper format and store such data in electronic format as referred to in article 4 of regulation (ec) no 1030/2002 and in point (a)20 of the annex thereto. a change in the aforementioned working conditions shall not constitute a change of employer.