### following the conclusion of the european citizens ' initiative on the right to water 71 , a union - wide public consultation was launched and a regulatory fitness and performance evaluation of directive 98 / 83 / ec was performed72 . it became apparent from that exercise that certain provisions of directive 98 / 83 / ec needed to be updated . four areas were identified as offering scope for improvement , namely the list of quality - based parametric values , the limited reliance on a risk - based approach , the imprecise provisions on consumer information , and the disparities between approval systems for materials in contact with water intended for human consumption . in addition , the european citizens ' initiative on the right to water identified as a distinct problem the fact that part of the population , especially marginalised groups , has no access to water intended for human consumption , which is also a commitment under sustainable development goal 6 of un agenda 2030 . a final issue identified is the general lack of awareness of water leakages , which are driven by underinvestment in maintenance and renewal of the water infrastructure , as also pointed out in the european court of auditors ' special report on water infrastructure73 . _________________ 71 com 177 final 72 swd 428 final 73 special report of the european court of auditors sr 12 / 2017 : ' implementing the drinking water directive : water quality and access to it improved in bulgaria , hungary and romania , but investment needs remains substantial ' . ### the european citizens ' initiative on the right to water 71called for eu institutions and member states to be obliged to ensure that all inhabitants enjoy the right to water and sanitation , for supply and the management of water resources not to be subject to internal market rules and that water services be excluded from liberalisation ; and for the eu to increase its efforts to achieve universal access to water and sanitation´ . as part of a disappointing response to this eci , the european commission launched a union - wide public consultation and performed a regulatory fitness and performance evaluation of directive 98 / 83 / ec72 . it became apparent from that exercise that certain provisions of directive 98 / 83 / ec needed to be updated . despite the clear calls from the eci , the commission decided to focus on only four areas as offering scope for improvement , namely the list of quality - based parametric values , the limited reliance on a risk - based approach , the imprecise provisions on consumer information , and the disparities between approval systems for materials in contact with water intended for human consumption . central to the european citizens ' initiative on the right to water was the enshrining of the human right to water in union legislation , and as such acknowledging that parts of the population , especially marginalised groups , have no access to water intended for human consumption , which is also a commitment under sustainable development goal 6 of un agenda 2030 . a final issue identified is the general lack of awareness of water leakages , which are driven by underinvestment in maintenance and renewal of the water infrastructure , as also pointed out in the european court of auditors ' special report on water infrastructure73 . _________________ 71 com 177 final 72 swd 428 final 73 special report of the european court of auditors sr 12 / 2017 : ' implementing the drinking water directive : water quality and access to it improved in bulgaria , hungary and romania , but investment needs remains substantial ' .


### member states should no longer be authorised to grant derogations from this directive . derogations were initially used to allow member states up to nine years to resolve a non - compliance with a parametric value . this procedure proved to be burdensome for member states and commission alike . in addition , in some cases , it led to delays in remedial actions being taken , as the possibility for derogation was considered as a transitional period . the provision on derogations should therefore be deleted . for reasons of protection of human health , when parametric values are exceeded , the provisions related to remedial actions should apply immediately without the possibility of granting a derogation from the parametric value . derogations granted by member states pursuant to article 9 of directive 98 / 83 / ec and still applicable at the date of entry into force of this directive should , however , continue to apply until the end of the derogation but should not be renewed . ### apart from the issue of how water supply is paid for by the end users , whether through general taxation or through individual charges , member states should no longer be authorised to grant derogations from this or any associated directive . derogations were initially used to allow member states up to nine years to resolve a non - compliance with a parametric value . this procedure proved to be burdensome for member states and commission alike . in addition , in some cases , it led to delays in remedial actions being taken , as the possibility for derogation was considered as a transitional period . the provision on derogations should therefore be deleted . for reasons of protection of human health , when parametric values are exceeded , the provisions related to remedial actions should apply immediately without the possibility of granting a derogation from the parametric value . derogations granted by member states pursuant to article 9 of directive 98 / 83 / ec and still applicable at the date of entry into force of this directive should , however , continue to apply until the end of the derogation but should not be renewed .


### the commission , in its reply to the european citizens’ initiative ‘ right2water’ in 201483 , invited member states to ensure access to a minimum water supply for all citizens , in accordance with the who recommendations . it also committed to continue to ' improve access to safe drinking water [ … ] for the whole population through environmental policies ' 84 . this is in line with un sustainable development goal 6 and the associated target to ' achieve universal and equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water for all ' . the concept of equitable access covers a wide array of aspects such as availability , quality , acceptability , or financial affordability . concerning affordability of water , it is important to recall that , when setting water tariffs in accordance with the principle of recovery of costs set out in directive 2000 / 60 / ec , member states may have regard to the variation in the economic and social conditions of the population and may therefore adopt social tariffs or take measures safeguarding populations at a socio - economic disadvantage . this directive deals , in particular , with the aspects of access to water which are related to quality and availability . to address those aspects , as part of the reply to the european citizens ' initiative and to contribute to the implementation of principle 20 of the european pillar of social rights85 that states that ' everyone has the right to access essential services of good quality , including water ' , member states should be required to tackle the issue of access to water at national level whilst enjoying some discretion as to the exact type of measures to be implemented . this can be done through actions aimed , inter alia , at improving access to water intended for human consumption for all , for instance with freely accessible fountains in cities , and promoting its use by encouraging the free provision of water intended for human consumption in public buildings and restaurants . _________________ 83 com177 final 84 com177 final , p . 12 . 85 interinstitutional proclamation on the european pillar of social rights of 17 november 2017 . ### the commission , in its reply to the european citizens’ initiative ‘ right2water’ in 201483 , invited member states to ensure access to a minimum water supply for all citizens , in accordance with the who recommendations . it also committed to continue to ' improve access to safe drinking water [ … ] for the whole population through environmental policies ' 84 . because this is a ) ' a minimum water supply ' and can thus mean charges for usage above that minimum for those who can ' t least afford it , and b ) does not include the word ' equitable ' , this is not in line with un sustainable development goal 6 and the associated target to ' achieve universal and equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water for all ' . the concept of equitable access covers a wide array of aspects such as availability , quality , acceptability , or financial affordability . concerning affordability of water , it is important to recall that , when setting water tariffs in accordance with the principle of recovery of costs set out in directive 2000 / 60 / ec , member states may have regard to the variation in the economic and social conditions of the population and may therefore adopt social tariffs or take measures safeguarding populations at a socio - economic disadvantage . because of the word ' may ' as opposed to the more powerful ' shall ' , this also doesn ' t go far enough to ensure full access to potable water for all , especially for those who can ' t afford the individual charges . this directive deals , in particular , with the aspects of access to water which are related to quality and availability . to address those aspects , as part of the reply to the european citizens ' initiative and to contribute to the implementation of principle 20 of the european pillar of social rights85 that states that ' everyone has the right to access essential services of good quality , including water ' , member states should be required to tackle the issue of access to water at national level whilst enjoying some discretion as to the exact type of measures to be implemented . it should be emphasised however that access in itself is not sufficient ; this access should not be restricted due to affordability . this can be done through actions aimed , inter alia , at improving access to water intended for human consumption for all , for instance with freely accessible fountains in cities , and promoting its use by encouraging the free provision of water intended for human consumption in public buildings and restaurants . _________________ 83 com177 final 84 com177 final , p . 12 . 85 interinstitutional proclamation on the european pillar of social rights of 17 november 2017 .


### the commission , in its reply to the european citizens’ initiative ‘ right2water’ in 201483 , invited member states to ensure access to a minimum water supply for all citizens , in accordance with the who recommendations . it also committed to continue to ' improve access to safe drinking water [ … ] for the whole population through environmental policies ' 84 . this is in line with un sustainable development goal 6 and the associated target to ' achieve universal and equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water for all ' . the concept of equitable access covers a wide array of aspects such as availability , quality , acceptability , or financial affordability . concerning affordability of water , it is important to recall that , when setting water tariffs in accordance with the principle of recovery of costs set out in directive 2000 / 60 / ec , member states may have regard to the variation in the economic and social conditions of the population and may therefore adopt social tariffs or take measures safeguarding populations at a socio - economic disadvantage . this directive deals , in particular , with the aspects of access to water which are related to quality and availability . to address those aspects , as part of the reply to the european citizens ' initiative and to contribute to the implementation of principle 20 of the european pillar of social rights85 that states that ' everyone has the right to access essential services of good quality , including water ' , member states should be required to tackle the issue of access to water at national level whilst enjoying some discretion as to the exact type of measures to be implemented . this can be done through actions aimed , inter alia , at improving access to water intended for human consumption for all , for instance with freely accessible fountains in cities , and promoting its use by encouraging the free provision of water intended for human consumption in public buildings and restaurants . _________________ 83 com177 final 84 com177 final , p . 12 . 85 interinstitutional proclamation on the european pillar of social rights of 17 november 2017 . ### the commission , in its reply to the european citizens’ initiative ‘ right2water’ in 201483 , invited member states to ensure access to a minimum water supply for all citizens , in accordance with the who recommendations . it also committed to continue to ' improve access to safe drinking water [ … ] for the whole population through environmental policies ' 84 . this is in line with un sustainable development goal 6 and the associated target to ' achieve universal and equitable access to safe and affordable drinking water for all ' . the concept of equitable access covers a wide array of aspects such as availability , quality , acceptability , or financial affordability . concerning affordability of water , it is important to recall that , without prejudice to article 9 , if setting water tariffs in accordance with the principle of recovery of costs set out in directive 2000 / 60 / ec , member states may have regard to the variation in the economic and social conditions of the population and may therefore adopt social tariffs or take measures safeguarding populations at a socio - economic disadvantage . this directive deals , in particular , with the aspects of access to water which are related to quality and availability . to address those aspects , as part of the reply to the european citizens ' initiative and to contribute to the implementation of principle 20 of the european pillar of social rights85 that states that ' everyone has the right to access essential services of good quality , including water ' , member states should be required to tackle the issue of access to water at national level whilst enjoying some discretion as to the exact type of measures to be implemented . this can be done through actions aimed , inter alia , at improving access to water intended for human consumption for all , for instance with freely accessible fountains in cities , and promoting its use by encouraging the free provision of water intended for human consumption in public buildings and restaurants . _________________ 83 com177 final 84 com177 final , p . 12 . 85 interinstitutional proclamation on the european pillar of social rights of 17 november 2017 .


### the 7th environment action programme to 2020 ‘ living well , within the limits of our planet’90 , requires that the public have access to clear environmental information at national level . directive 98 / 83 / ec only provided for passive access to information , meaning that member states merely had to ensure that information was available . those provisions should therefore be replaced to ensure that up - to - date information is easily accessible , for instance on a website whose link should be actively distributed . the up - to - date information should not only include results from the monitoring programmes , but also additional information that the public may find useful , such as information on indicators , which often influence consumers ' perception of tap water . to that end , the indicator parameters of directive 98 / 83 / ec that did not provide health - related information should be replaced by on - line information on those parameters . for very large water suppliers , additional information on , inter alia , energy efficiency , management , governance , cost structure , and treatment applied , should also be available on - line . it is assumed that better consumer knowledge and improved transparency will contribute to increasing citizens ' confidence in the water supplied to them . this in turn is expected to lead to increased use of tap water , thereby contributing to reduced plastic litter and greenhouse gas emissions , and a positive impact on climate change mitigation and the environment as a whole . _________________ 90 decision no 1386 / 2013 / eu of the european parliament and of the council of 20 november 2013 on a general union environment action programme to 2020 ‘ living well , within the limits of our planet’ . ### the 7th environment action programme to 2020 ‘ living well , within the limits of our planet’90 , requires that the public have access to clear environmental information at national level . directive 98 / 83 / ec only provided for passive access to information , meaning that member states merely had to ensure that information was available . those provisions should therefore be replaced to ensure that up - to - date information is easily accessible . the up - to - date information should not only include results from the monitoring programmes , but also additional information that the public may find useful , such as information on indicators , which often influence consumers ' perception of tap water . for very large water suppliers , additional information on , inter alia , energy efficiency , management , governance , cost structure , and treatment applied , should be available . it is assumed that better consumer knowledge and improved transparency will contribute to increasing citizens ' confidence in the water supplied to them . this in turn is expected to lead to increased use of tap water , thereby contributing to reduced plastic usage and litter and greenhouse gas emissions , and a positive impact on climate change mitigation and the environment as a whole . _________________ 90 decision no 1386 / 2013 / eu of the european parliament and of the council of 20 november 2013 on a general union environment action programme to 2020 ‘ living well , within the limits of our planet’ .


### in order to adapt this directive to scientific and technical progress or to specify monitoring requirements for the purposes of the hazard and domestic distribution risk assessments , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty should be delegated to the commission to amend annexes i to iv to this directive . it is of particular importance that the commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level , and that those consultations be conducted in accordance with the principles laid down in the interinstitutional agreement of 13 april 2016 on better law - making . in particular , to ensure equal participation in the preparation of delegated acts , the european parliament and the council receive all documents at the same time as member states ' experts , and their experts systematically have access to meetings of commission expert groups dealing with the preparation of delegated acts . in addition , the empowerment laid down in annex i , part c , note 10 , of directive 98 / 83 / ec , to set monitoring frequencies and monitoring methods for radioactive substances has become obsolete due to the adoption of council directive 2013 / 51 / euratom96 and should therefore be deleted . the empowerment laid down in the second subparagraph of part a of annex iii to directive 98 / 83 / ec concerning amendments of the directive is no longer necessary and should be deleted . _________________ 96 council directive 2013 / 51 / euratom of 22 october 2013 laying down requirements for the protection of the health of the general public with regard to radioactive substances in water intended for human consumption . ### in order to adapt this directive to scientific and technical progress or to specify monitoring requirements for the purposes of the hazard and domestic distribution risk assessments , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty should be delegated to the commission for a period of no longer than five years to amend annexes i to iv to this directive . it is of particular importance that the commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level , and that those consultations be conducted in accordance with the principles laid down in the interinstitutional agreement of 13 april 2016 on better law - making . in particular , to ensure equal participation in the preparation of delegated acts , the european parliament and the council receive all documents at the same time as member states ' experts , and their experts systematically have access to meetings of commission expert groups dealing with the preparation of delegated acts . in addition , the empowerment laid down in annex i , part c , note 10 , of directive 98 / 83 / ec , to set monitoring frequencies and monitoring methods for radioactive substances has become obsolete due to the adoption of council directive 2013 / 51 / euratom96 and should therefore be deleted . the empowerment laid down in the second subparagraph of part a of annex iii to directive 98 / 83 / ec concerning amendments of the directive is no longer necessary and should be deleted . _________________ 96 council directive 2013 / 51 / euratom of 22 october 2013 laying down requirements for the protection of the health of the general public with regard to radioactive substances in water intended for human consumption .


### identification of hazards and possible pollution sources affecting the bodies of water covered by the hazard assessment . to that end , member states may use the review of the impact of human activity undertaken in accordance with article 5 of directive 2000 / 60 / ec and information on significant pressures collected in accordance with point 1 . 4 of annex ii to that directive ; ### identification of hazards and possible pollution sources affecting the bodies of water covered by the hazard assessment . such research and identification of pollution sources shall be regularly updated to detect additional new substances as delivered by chemical production improvements affecting microplastics , and notably pfas . to that end , member states may use the review of the impact of human activity undertaken in accordance with article 5 of directive 2000 / 60 / ec and information on significant pressures collected in accordance with point 1 . 4 of annex ii to that directive ;


### the competent authorities or other relevant bodies shall decide what action under paragraph 3 shall be taken , bearing in mind the risks to human health which would be caused by an interruption of the supply or a restriction in the use of water intended for human consumption . ### the competent authorities or other relevant bodies shall decide what action under paragraph 4 shall be taken , bearing in mind the risks to human health which would be caused by an interruption of the supply or a restriction in the use of water intended for human consumption .


### on the basis of the information gathered under paragraph 1 , member states shall take all necessary measures to ensure access to water intended for human consumption for vulnerable and marginalised groups . ### on the basis of the information gathered under paragraph 1 , member states shall take all necessary measures to ensure access to water intended for human consumption for vulnerable and marginalised groups , and populations at risk of poverty or social exclusion .


### member states shall ensure that all persons supplied receive regularly and at least once a year , and in the most appropriate form without having to request it , the following information : ### member states shall ensure that all customers , such as individual households , housing corporations and property owners supplied receive regularly and at least once a year , and in the most appropriate form without having to request it , the following information :


### information on the cost structure of the tariff charged per cubic metre of water intended for human consumption , including fixed and variable costs , presenting at least costs related to the following elements : ### where costs are recovered through a tariff system , information on the cost structure of the tariff charged per cubic metre of water intended for human consumption , including fixed and variable costs , presenting at least costs related to the following elements :


### a substantial increase in the number of nationals of that third country found to be staying in the member state ' s territory without a right thereto ; ### a substantial increase in the number of nationals of that third country ;


### the overall impact of the increases referred to in paragraph 2 on the migratory situation in the union as it appears from the data provided by the member states or available to the commission ; ### the overall impact of the increases referred to in paragraph 2 on the migratory situation in the union as it appears from the data provided by the member states , eurostat and competent international organisations or available to the commission ;


### the reports prepared by the [ european agency for the management of operational cooperation at the external borders of the member states of the european union ] , the european asylum support office or the european police office if circumstances so require in the specific case ; ### the reports prepared by the european agency for the management of operational cooperation at the external borders of the member states of the european union , the european asylum support office , the european fundamental rights agency , international organisations , in particular the unhcr , and competent civil society organisations or persons with specific expertise in the area of human rights in the country in question ;


### the overall question of public policy and internal security , in consultations with the member state concerned . ### the situation as regards human rights and fundamental freedoms in the third country , taking account of the implications of activating the suspension mechanism for nationals of the third country in question , in particular in the light of the right of asylum .


### this regulation respects fundamental rights and observes the principles recognised in particular by the charter of fundamental rights of the european union . in particular this regulation seeks to ensure full respect for private and family life referred to in article 7 , protection of personal data referred to in article 8 and the rights of the child referred to in article 24 of the charter of fundamental rights of the european union . ### this regulation respects fundamental rights and observes the rights and principles recognised in particular by the charter of fundamental rights of the european union . in particular this regulation seeks to ensure full respect for the right to protection of personal data referred to in article 16 tfeu , as well as the right to private and family life referred to in article 7 , the right to protection of personal data referred to in article 8 , the right of asylum referred to in article 18 and the rights of the child referred to in article 24 of the charter of fundamental rights of the european union .


### applications&#160 ; may be lodged&#160 ; six months before&#160 ; and no later than 15 calendar days before the start of the intended visit . ### applications may be lodged twelve months before and no later than 15 calendar days before the start of the intended visit .


### in the examination of an application for a uniform visa , it shall be ascertained whether the applicant fulfils the entry conditions set out in article 5 , , and of&#160 ; regulation no 562 / 2006 , and particular consideration shall be given to assessing whether the applicant presents a risk of&#160 ; irregular immigration or a risk to the security of the member states and whether the applicant intends to leave the territory of the member states before the expiry of the visa applied for . ### in the examination of an application for a uniform visa , it shall be ascertained whether the applicant fulfils the entry conditions set out in article 5 , , and of regulation no 562 / 2006 .


### in the examination of an application for a uniform visa lodged by a vis registered regular traveller who has lawfully used the two previously obtained visas , it shall be presumed that the applicant fulfils the entry conditions regarding the risk of irregular immigration , a risk to the security of the member states , and the possession of sufficient means of subsistence . ### in the examination of an application for a uniform visa lodged by a vis registered regular traveller who has lawfully used the two previously obtained visas , it shall be presumed that the applicant fulfils the entry conditions .


### when the member state concerned considers it necessary on humanitarian grounds , for reasons of national interest or because of international obligations , ### when the member state concerned considers it necessary on humanitarian grounds , for reasons of national interest or to fulfil international obligations , in particular when it is necessary in order to ensure the international protection of the person concerned in accordance with the united nations convention relating to the status of refugees of 1951 or other relevant union and international instruments :


### a decision on refusal and the reasons on which it is based shall be notified to the applicant by means of the standard form set out in annex v . ### a decision on refusal and the reasons on which it is based shall be notified to the applicant by means of the standard form set out in annex v , within three days at the latest of the decision being adopted .


### applicants who have been refused a visa shall have the right to appeal . appeals shall be instituted against the member state that has taken the final decision on the application and in accordance with the national law of that member state . member states shall provide applicants with detailed information regarding the procedure to be followed in the event of an appeal , as specified in annex v . ### applicants who have been refused a visa , including a visa on humanitarian grounds , shall have the right to appeal , including before the courts . member states shall ensure that their national appeal procedures in visa cases are swift and easily accessible . appeals shall be instituted against the member state that has taken the final decision on the application and in accordance with the national law of that member state . where a member state is represented by another member state in accordance with article 5 or 39 , the represented state is considered as the member state taking the final decision . in case of a decision overturned after the appeal , the applicant shall be reimbursed any costs incurred as a result of the wrongful decision . member states shall provide applicants with detailed information regarding the procedure to be followed in the event of an appeal , as specified in annex v .


### consular staff shall , in the performance of their duties , fully respect human dignity . any measures taken shall be proportionate to the objectives pursued by such measures . ### consular staff shall , in the performance of their duties , fully respect the rights enshrined in the charter of fundamental rights . any measures taken shall be proportionate to the objectives pursued by such measures .


### delegated acts adopted under this article shall enter into force without delay and shall apply as long as no objection is expressed in accordance with paragraph 2 . the notification of a delegated act to the european parliament and to the council shall state the reasons for the use of the urgency procedure . ### delegated acts adopted under this article shall enter into force without delay and shall apply as long as no objection is expressed in accordance with paragraph 2 . the notification of a delegated act to the european parliament and to the council shall be forwarded without delay and shall state precisely the reasons for the use of the emergency procedure .


### the main long - term incentive from this directive for the capture and storage of co2 , new renewable energy technologies and breakthrough innovation in low - carbon technologies and processes is the carbon price signal it creates and that allowances will not need to be surrendered for co2 emissions which are permanently stored or avoided . in addition , to supplement the resources already being used to accelerate demonstration of commercial ccs facilities and innovative renewable energy technologies , eu ets allowances should be used to provide guaranteed rewards for deployment of ccs facilities , new renewable energy technologies and industrial innovation in low - carbon technologies and processes in the union for co2 stored or avoided on a sufficient scale , provided an agreement on knowledge sharing is in place . the majority of this support should be dependent on verified avoidance of greenhouse gas emissions , while some support may be given when pre - determined milestones are reached taking into account the technology deployed . the maximum percentage of project costs to be supported may vary by category of project . ### the main long - term incentive from this directive for the capture and storage and carbon capture and use of co2 , new renewable energy technologies and breakthrough innovation in sustainable low - carbon technologies and processes is the carbon price signal it creates and that allowances will not need to be surrendered for co2 emissions which are permanently stored or avoided . in addition , to supplement the resources already being used to accelerate demonstration of commercial ccs and ccu facilities and innovative renewable energy technologies , eu ets allowances should be used to provide guaranteed rewards for deployment of ccs and ccu facilities , new renewable energy technologies and industrial innovation in sustainable low - carbon technologies and processes in the union for co2 stored or avoided on a sufficient scale , provided an agreement on knowledge sharing is in place . the majority of this support should be dependent on verified avoidance of greenhouse gas emissions , while some support may be given when pre - determined milestones are reached taking into account the technology deployed . the maximum percentage of project costs to be supported may vary by category of project .


### in order to respect the auctioning share set out in article 10 , the sum of free allocations in every year where the sum of free allocations does not reach the maximum level that respects the member state auctioning share , the remaining allowances up to that level shall be used to prevent or limit reduction of free allocations to respect the member state auctioning share in later years . where , nonetheless , the maximum level is reached , free allocations shall be adjusted accordingly . any such adjustment shall be done in a uniform manner . ### where the sum of free allocations in a given year does not reach the maximum level that respects the member state auctioning share , the remaining allowances up to that level shall be used to prevent or limit the reduction of free allocations in subsequent years . where , however , the maximum level is reached , an amount of allowances equivalent to a reduction of up to three percentage points of the share of allowances to be auctioned by member states , pursuant to article 10 , shall be distributed free of charge to sectors and sub - sectors pursuant to article 10b . where , nonetheless , this reduction is insufficient to meet the demand of sectors or sub - sectors pursuant to article 10b , free allocations shall be adjusted accordingly by a uniform cross sectoral correction factor . adjustments of free allocations according to this paragraph shall not apply to allocations according to article 10c and shall not apply to free allocations adjusted by linear factor referred to in article 9 .


### for each mission , a mission board may be established . it shall be composed of around 15 high level individuals including relevant end - users ' representatives . the mission board shall advise upon the following : ### for each mission , a mission board may be established . it shall be composed of around 15 transparently - chosen high level individuals including relevant end - users ' representatives . the mission board shall advise upon the following :


### the scientific council shall be composed of scientists , engineers and scholars of the highest repute and appropriate expertise , of both women and men in different age groups , ensuring a diversity of research areas and acting in their personal capacity , independent of extraneous interests . ### the scientific council shall be composed of scientists , engineers and scholars of the highest repute and appropriate expertise , of all genders in different age groups , ensuring a diversity of research areas and acting in their personal capacity , independent of extraneous interests .


### the eic board shall be composed of 15 to 20 high level individuals drawn from various parts of europe ' s innovation ecosystem , including entrepreneurs , corporate leaders , investors and researchers . it shall contribute to outreach actions , with eic board members striving to enhance the prestige of the eic brand . ### the eic board shall be composed of 15 to 20 high level individuals drawn from various parts of europe ' s innovation ecosystem , including entrepreneurs , corporate leaders , environmental and corporate watch - dog ngo representatives , investors and researchers . it shall contribute to outreach actions , with eic board members striving to enhance the prestige of the eic brand .


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


### –appoint the director and the members of the management of the dedicated implementation structure taking into account the views of the scientific council ; ### –appoint in a fully transparent manner the director and the members of the management of the dedicated implementation structure taking into account the views of the scientific council ;


### through global research competition between scientists and between host organisations from both the academic and non - academic sector , and through the creation and sharing of high - quality knowledge across countries , sectors and disciplines , the msca contribute notably to the goals of the ' jobs , growth and investment ' agenda , the eu global strategy and to the united nations sustainable development goals . ### through global research competition between scientists and between host organisations from both the academic and non - academic sector , and through the creation and sharing of high - quality knowledge across countries , sectors and disciplines , the msca contribute notably to the goals of the ' jobs , growth and investment ' agenda , the eu global strategy and to the united nations sustainable development goals . attention must also be given to the fact , however , that infinite growth in a finite planet is simply not achievable , and thus more research is also needed in the field of a true ' circular economy ' , with an emphasis on reuse , repair , recycle .


### the eu pillar of social rights asserts that everyone has the right to timely access to affordable , preventive and curative health care of good quality . this underlines the eu’s commitment to the un’s sustainable development goals calling for universal health coverage for all at all ages by 2030 , leaving no one behind , and ending preventable deaths . ### the eu pillar of social rights asserts that everyone has the right to timely access to affordable - for - all , preventive and curative health care of good quality . this underlines the eu’s commitment to the un’s sustainable development goals calling for universal health coverage for all at all ages by 2030 , leaving no one behind , and ending preventable deaths .


### european citizens , state institutions and the economy need to be protected from the continued threats of organised crime , including firearms trafficking , drug trafficking and trafficking in human beings . strengthening protection and security through better border management is also key . cybercrime is on the increase and related risks are diversifying as the economy and society digitalise . europe needs to continue its effots to improve cybersecurity , digital privacy , personal data protection and combat the spread of false and harmful information in order to safeguard democratic and economic stability . lastly , further efforts are required to limit the effects on lives and livelihoods of extreme weather events which are intensifying due to climate change , such as floods , storms or droughts leading to forest fires , land degradation and other natural disasters , e . g . earthquakes . disasters , whether natural or man - made , can put at risk important societal functions , such as health , energy supply and government . ### european citizens , state institutions and the economy need to be protected from the continued threats of organised crime , including firearms trafficking , drug trafficking and trafficking in human beings . strengthening protection and security through better border management is also key . cybercrime is on the increase and related risks are diversifying as the economy and society digitalise . europe needs to continue its effots to improve cybersecurity , digital privacy , personal data protection and combat the spread of false and harmful information , whilst also guarding against over - stepping the bounds on human rights , in order to safeguard democratic and economic stability . lastly , further efforts are required to limit the effects on lives and livelihoods of extreme weather events which are intensifying due to climate change , such as floods , storms or droughts leading to forest fires , land degradation and other natural disasters , e . g . earthquakes . disasters , whether natural or man - made , can put at risk important societal functions , such as health , energy supply and government .


### –strategies to address populism , extremism , radicalisation , terrorism and to include and engage disaffected and marginalised citizens ; ### –strategies to address populism , extremism , radicalisation , and terrorism , but strategies also to address the valid concerns of the many disaffected and marginalised citizens across the union ;


### –knowledge base for advice on investments and policies especially education and training , for high value added skills , productivity , social mobility , growth , social innovation and job creation . the role of education and training to tackle inequalities ; ### –knowledge base for advice on investments and policies especially affordable - for - all education and training , for high value added skills , productivity , social mobility , growth , social innovation and job creation . the role of education and training to tackle inequalities ;


### –education and training systems to foster and make the best use of the eu ' s digital transformation , also to manage the risks from global interconnectedness and technological innovations , especially emerging online risks , ethical concerns , socio - economic inequalities and radical changes in markets ; ### –affordable - for - all education and training systems to foster and make the best use of the eu ' s digital transformation , also to manage the risks from global interconnectedness and technological innovations , especially emerging online risks , ethical concerns , socio - economic inequalities and radical changes in markets ;


### –technologies and systems for trusted and energy - efficient smart network and service infrastructures , enabling real - time capabilities , virtualisation and decentralised management ; ### –technologies and systems that have been independently tested and proven safe , for trusted and energy - efficient smart network and service infrastructures , enabling real - time capabilities , virtualisation and decentralised management ;


### –big data : extreme - performance data analytics ; ' privacy by design ' in the analysis of personal and confidential big data ; technologies for full - scale data platforms for re - use of industrial , personal and open data ; data management , interoperability and linking tools ; data applications for global challenges ; ### –big data : extreme - performance data analytics ; ' privacy by design ' in the analysis of personal and confidential big data ; technologies for full - scale data platforms for re - use of industrial , personal and open data ; data management , interoperability and linking tools ; data applications for global challenges ; data storage , the environmental implications and to reduce the impact ;


### –renewable energy technologies and solutions for power generation , heating and cooling , sustainable transport fuels and intermediate carriers , at various scales and development stages , adapted to geographic conditions and markets , both within the eu and worldwide ; ### –reliable renewable energy technologies and solutions for power generation , heating and cooling , sustainable transport fuels and intermediate carriers , at various scales and development stages , adapted to geographic conditions and markets , both within the eu and worldwide ;


### –methods , technologies and tools for sustainable and resilient production in farming and forestry ; ### –methods , technologies and tools for sustainable and resilient production in farming , in forestry , and in agriforestry ;


### –scientific and technical policy support for improved public health and health care systems , including medical devices and health technology assessments , databases , digitisation ; ### –scientific and technical policy support for affordable - for - all improved public health and health care systems , including medical devices and health technology assessments , databases , digitisation ;


### young people should be provided with easily accessible opportunities to engage in solidarity activities , which could enable them to express their commitment to the benefit of communities while acquiring useful experience , skills and competences for their personal , educational , social , civic and professional development , thereby improving their employability . those activities should also support the mobility of young volunteers , trainees and workers . ### young people should be provided with easily accessible and inclusive opportunities to engage in solidarity activities , which will enable them to express their commitment to the benefit of communities while acquiring useful experience , skills and competences for their personal , educational , social and civic development . such activities should also support the mobility of young volunteers and trainees .


### the solidarity activities offered to young people should be of high quality , in the sense that they should respond to unmet societal needs , contribute to strengthening communities , offer young people the opportunity to acquire valuable knowledge and competences , be financially accessible to young people , and be implemented in safe and healthy conditions . ### the solidarity activities offered to young people should be of high quality , in the sense that they should respond to unmet societal needs , contribute to strengthening local communities and social cohesion , offer young people the opportunity to acquire valuable knowledge and competences , be financially accessible to young people , and be implemented in safe , inclusive and healthy conditions .


### the european solidarity corps provides a single entry point for solidarity activities throughout the union and beyond . consistency and complementarity should be ensured with other relevant union policies and programmes . the european solidarity corps is built on the strengths and synergies of predecessor and existing programmes , notably the european voluntary service19 and the eu aid volunteers20 . it also complements the efforts made by member states to support young people and ease their school - to - work transition under the youth guarantee by providing them with additional opportunities to make a start on the labour market in the form of traineeships or jobs in solidarity - related areas within their respective member state or across borders . complementarity with existing union level networks pertinent to the activities under the european solidarity corps , such as the european network of public employment services , eures and the eurodesk network , are also ensured . furthermore , complementarity between existing related schemes , in particular national solidarity schemes and mobility schemes for young people , and the european solidarity corps should be ensured , building on good practices where appropriate . _________________ 19 regulation no 1288 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 11 december 2013 establishing ' erasmus + ' : the union programme for education , training , youth and sport and repealing decisions no 1719 / 2006 / ec , no 1720 / 2006 / ec and no 1298 / 2008 / ec . 20 regulation no 375 / 2014 of the european parliament and of the council of 3 april 2014 establishing the european voluntary humanitarian aid corps . ### the european solidarity corps provides a valuable opportunity free of discrimination based on gender or social background for solidarity activities throughout the union and beyond . consistency and complementarity should be ensured with other relevant union policies and programmes . complementarity between existing related schemes , in particular national , regional and local solidarity schemes and mobility schemes for young people , as well as other opportunities offered by civil society , and the european solidarity corps should be ensured , building on good practices .


### the european solidarity corps opens up new opportunities for young people to carry out volunteering , traineeship or job activities in solidarity - related areas as well as to devise and develop solidarity projects based on their own initiative . these opportunities contribute to enhancing their personal , educational , social , civic and professional development . the european solidarity corps also supports networking activities for european solidarity corps participants and organisations as well as measures to ensure the quality of the supported activities and to enhance the validation of their learning outcomes . it will thus also contribute to european cooperation relevant to young people and raising awareness of its positive impact . ### the european solidarity corps opens up new opportunities for young people and non - profit participating organisations to carry out volunteering , traineeship activities in solidarity - related areas as well as to devise and develop solidarity projects based on their own initiative . these opportunities contribute to enhancing young people personal , educational , social , civic development . the european solidarity corps also supports networking activities for european solidarity corps participants and non - profit participating organisations as well as measures to ensure the quality of the supported activities and to enhance the validation of their learning outcomes . it will thus also contribute to european cooperation relevant to young people and raising awareness of its positive impact .


### these activities should be to the benefit of communities while also fostering the individual’s personal , educational , social , civic and professional development , which may take the form of volunteering , traineeships and jobs , projects or networking activities , developed in relation to different areas , such as education and training , employment , gender equality , entrepreneurship – in particular social entrepreneurship – , citizenship and democratic participation , environment and nature protection , climate action , disaster prevention , preparedness and recovery , agriculture and rural development , provision of food and non - food items , health and wellbeing , creativity and culture , physical education and sport , social assistance and welfare , reception and integration of third - country nationals , territorial cooperation and cohesion , and cooperation across borders . such solidarity activities should include a solid learning and training dimension through relevant activities that can be offered to participants before , during and after the solidarity activity . ### these activities should be to the benefit of communities while also fostering the individual’s personal , educational , social , civic development , which take the form of volunteering and traineeships , projects or networking activities , developed in relation to different areas , such as formal and non - formal education and informal learning , intercultural dialogue , social inclusion , and training , gender equality , social entrepreneurship , citizenship and democratic participation , environment and nature protection , climate action , disaster prevention , preparedness and recovery , social farming and rural development , provision of food and non - food items , health and wellbeing , creativity and culture , physical education and sport , social assistance and welfare , reception and integration of third - country nationals , in particular migrants and asylum seekers , territorial cooperation and cohesion , and cooperation across borders . such solidarity activities should include a solid education and learning and training dimension through relevant activities that can be offered to participants before , during and after the solidarity activity .


### young people’s spirit of initiative is an important asset for society and for the labour market . the european solidarity corps contributes to fostering this aspect by offering young people the opportunity to devise and implement their own projects aimed at addressing specific challenges to the benefit of their local communities . these projects are an opportunity to try out ideas and support young people to be themselves drivers of solidarity actions . they also serve as a springboard for further engagement in solidarity activities and are a first step towards encouraging european solidarity corps participants to engage in self - employment or setting up associations , non - governmental organisations or other bodies active in the solidarity , non - profit and youth sectors . ### young people’s spirit of initiative is an important asset for the society . the european solidarity corps contributes to fostering this aspect by offering young people the opportunity to devise and implement their own projects aimed at addressing specific challenges to the benefit of their local communities . these projects are an opportunity to develop innovative solutions to common challenges and support young people to be themselves drivers of solidarity actions . they also serve as a springboard for further engagement in solidarity activities and are a first step towards encouraging european solidarity corps participants to engage in further volunteering opportunities .


### particular attention should be given to ensuring the quality of the activities and other opportunities offered under the european solidarity corps , in particular by offering training , language support , insurance , administrative and post - activity support to participants as well as the validation of the knowledge , skills and competences acquired through their european solidarity corps experience . security and safety of the volunteers remain of paramount importance and volunteers should not be deployed to operations conducted in the theatre of international and non - international armed conflicts . ### particular attention should be given to ensuring the quality and the inclusive aim to be achieved through the activities and the opportunities offered under the european solidarity corps , in particular by offering training , language support , reasonable accommodation , access to support service , insurance , social support , administrative and post - activity support to participants and volunteers as well as the validation of the knowledge , skills and competences acquired through their european solidarity corps experience . security and safety of the participants and volunteers remain of paramount importance and volunteers should not be deployed to operations conducted in the theatre of international and non - international armed conflicts .


### a quality label should ensure compliance of the participating organisations with the principles and requirements of the european solidarity corps , as regards their rights and responsibilities during all stages of the solidarity experience . obtaining a quality label is a precondition for participation but should not automatically lead to funding under the european solidarity corps . ### a quality label should ensure compliance of the non - profit participating organisations with the principles and requirements of the european solidarity corps , as regards their rights and responsibilities during all stages of the solidarity experience , including preparation and follow up phases . obtaining a quality label is a precondition for participation but should not automatically lead to funding under the european solidarity corps .


### the european solidarity corps portal should be continuously developed in order to ensure easy access to the european solidarity corps and to provide a one - stop shop for both interested individuals and organisations as regards , inter alia , registration , identification and matching of profiles and opportunities , networking and virtual exchanges , online training , language and post - activity support as well as other useful functionalities , which may arise in the future . ### the european solidarity corps portal should be continuously developed in order to ensure easy access to the european solidarity corps and to provide a one - stop shop for both interested individuals and organisations as regards , inter alia , registration , identification and matching of profiles and opportunities , networking and virtual exchanges , online training , language and post - activity support as well as other useful functionalities , which may arise in the future . while a one - stop shop offers integrated access to diverse activities , individuals may encounter physical , social or other obstacles in acceding the portal . for this reason , individuals should also be able to register indirectly via participating organisations .


### in order to better achieve the objectives of the programme , the commission , member states and national agencies should preferably work closely together in partnership with non - governmental organisations , youth organisations and local stakeholders having expertise in solidarity actions . ### in order to better achieve the objectives of the programme , the commission , member states and national agencies should work closely together in partnership with non - governmental organisations , youth organisations and local stakeholders having expertise in solidarity actions , in particular volunteer infrastructure and support agencies such as volunteer centres .


### in order to ensure efficient and effective implementation of this regulation , the programme should make maximum use of existing management arrangements already in place . the implementation of the programme should therefore be entrusted to existing structures , namely the commission and the national agencies designated for the management of the actions referred to in chapter iii of [ new erasmus regulation ] . the commission should regularly consult key stakeholders , including participating organisations , on the implementation of the european solidarity corps . ### in order to ensure efficient and effective implementation of this regulation , the programme should make maximum use of existing management arrangements already in place . the implementation of the programme should therefore be entrusted to existing structures , namely the commission and the national agencies designated for the management of the actions referred to in chapter iii of [ new erasmus regulation ] . the commission should regularly consult key stakeholders , including participating organisations , on the implementation of the european solidarity corps and actively involve them in the decision making process .


### ‘ solidarity project’ means an unpaid in - country solidarity activity for a period of up to 12 months , carried out by groups of at least five european solidarity corps participants , with a view to addressing key challenges within their communities while presenting a clear european added value ; ### ‘ solidarity project’ means an unpaid in - country solidarity activity for a period of up to 12 months , carried out by groups of at least five european solidarity corps volunteers or by a participating organisation , with a view to addressing key challenges within their communities while presenting a clear european added value ;


### the specific objective of the programme is to provide young people , including those with fewer opportunities , with easily accessible opportunities for engagement in solidarity activities in europe and abroad while improving and properly validating their competences as well as facilitating their employability and transition into the labour market . ### the specific objective of the programme is to provide young people , in particular young people with fewer opportunities , with easily accessible , adequately funded and inclusive opportunities for engagement in solidarity activities in europe and abroad ;


### their approach to involve young people from different backgrounds ; ### their inclusive approach to involve young people from different and disadvantaged backgrounds , including those facing barriers to fully participate in the programme ;


### volunteering as referred to in article 4 . 1 , point shall include a learning and training component , shall not substitute traineeships or jobs , shall not be equated with employment and shall be based on a written volunteering agreement . ### volunteering as referred to in&#160 ; article 4 . 1 , point shall have a clear impact on identified&#160 ; community needs , shall include a training preceding the solidarity&#160 ; activity , a solid education and learning component to&#160 ; be organised before , during and after the solidarity activity&#160 ; by the non - profit participating organisation , volunteering shall not&#160 ; substitute traineeships or jobs , shall not be equated with employment and&#160 ; shall be based on a written volunteering agreement in accordance with relevant&#160 ; member state legislation .


### the interim evaluation of the programme shall be performed once there is sufficient information available about the implementation of the programme , but no later than four years after the start of the programme implementation . it shall also be accompanied by a final evaluation of the predecessor programme . ### the interim evaluation of the programme shall be performed once there is sufficient information available about the implementation of the programme , but no later than four years after the start of the programme implementation . it shall be accompanied by a final evaluation of the predecessor programme .


### in accordance with article 21 of the treaty on european union , the union is to define and pursue common policies and actions , and improve cooperation in all fields in international relations in order , inter alia , to encourage the integration of all countries into the world economy , including through the progressive abolition of restrictions on international trade . ### in accordance with article 21 of the treaty on european union , the union should seek to develop relations and build partnerships with third countries , and international , regional or global organizations which share the principles referred to in the first subparagraph of that article , and the union should define and pursue common policies and actions , and improve cooperation in all fields in international relations in order , inter alia , to help develop international measures to preserve and improve the quality of the environment and the sustainable management of global natural resources , in order to ensure sustainable development , to encourage the integration of all countries into the world economy , including through the progressive abolition of restrictions on international trade , and to promote an international system based on stronger multilateral cooperation and good global governance .


### many third countries are reluctant to open their public procurement and their concessions markets to international competition , or to open those markets further than what they have already done . as a result , union economic operators face restrictive procurement practices in many of the trading partner of the union . those restrictive procurement practices result in the loss of substantial trading opportunities . ### many third countries are reluctant to open their public procurement and their concessions markets to international competition , or to open those markets further than what they have already done , because they consider public procurement as an important instrument to address development needs of their population , in particular in rural areas . as a result , union economic operators face restrictive procurement practices in many of the trading partner of the union . those restrictive procurement practices result in the loss of substantial trading opportunities .


### when assessing whether restrictive and / or discriminatory procurement measures or practices exist in a third country , the commission should examine to what degree laws on public procurement and concessions of the country concerned ensure transparency in line with international standards in the field of public procurement and preclude any discrimination against union goods , services and economic operators . in addition , it should examine to what degree individual contracting authorities or contracting entities maintain or adopt discriminatory practices against union goods , services and economic operators . ### when assessing the legitimacy of applied public procurement restrictions , the commission should examine to what degree laws on public procurement and concessions of the country concerned ensure transparency in line with international standards in the field of public procurement and preclude any discrimination particularly against union goods , services and economic operators . in addition , it should examine to what degree individual contracting authorities or contracting entities maintain or adopt discriminatory practices considered illegitimate against union goods , services and economic operators .


### in view of the established cooperation between the union and the ccnr since 2003 which has led to the establishment of a european committee for drawing up standards in inland navigation , an international body set up under the auspices of the ccnr , and in order to streamline the legal frameworks governing the professional qualifications in europe , certificates of qualification , service record books and logbooks , issued in accordance with the rhine navigation personnel regulation under the revised convention for rhine navigation which lay down requirements that are identical to those of this directive should be valid on all union inland waterways . such documents issued by third countries should be recognised in the union , subject to reciprocity . to further remove barriers to labour mobility and further streamline the legal frameworks governing the professional qualifications in europe , any certificate of qualification , service record book or logbook issued by a third country on the basis of requirements which are identical to those laid down in this directive may also be recognised on all union waterways , subject to an assessment by the commission and subject to recognition by that third - country of documents issued in accordance with the present directive . ### in view of the established cooperation between the union and the ccnr since 2003 which has led to the establishment of a european committee for drawing up standards in inland navigation , an international body consisting of representatives of member states , river commissions , and social partners and set up under the auspices of the ccnr , and in order to streamline the legal frameworks governing the professional qualifications in europe , certificates of qualification , service record books and logbooks , issued in accordance with the rhine navigation personnel regulation under the revised convention for rhine navigation which lay down requirements that are identical to those of this directive should be valid on all union inland waterways . . as a result , cesni should draft standards for all areas for which the commission is authorised to adopt delegated acts , with the exception of stretches of navigable waterways in which member states deem that there are specific risks . such documents issued by third countries should be recognised in the union , subject to reciprocity . to further remove barriers to labour mobility and further streamline the legal frameworks governing the professional qualifications in europe , any certificate of qualification , service record book or logbook issued by a third country on the basis of requirements which are identical to those laid down in this directive may also be recognised on all union waterways , subject to an assessment by the commission and subject to recognition by that third - country of documents issued in accordance with the present directive .


### to safeguard the mutual recognition of qualifications , the certificates of qualification should be based on the competences necessary for the operation of vessels . member states should ensure that persons receiving certificates of qualification have the corresponding minimum levels of competence , verified following an appropriate assessment . such assessments may take the form of an administrative examination or may form part of approved training programmes carried out in accordance with common standards in order to ensure a comparable minimum level of competence in all member states for various qualifications . ### to safeguard the mutual recognition of qualifications , the certificates of qualification should be based on the competences necessary for the operation of vessels . member states should ensure that persons receiving certificates of qualification have the corresponding necessary levels of competence , verified following an appropriate assessment . such assessments may take the form of an administrative examination or may form part of approved training programmes and where necessary a practical assessment carried out in accordance with common standards in order to ensure a comparable necessary level of competence in all member states for various qualifications .


### due to the responsibility with respect to safety when exercising the profession of boatmaster , sailing with the aid of radar and bunkering liquefied natural gas - fuelled vessels or sailing liquefied natural gas - fuelled vessels , verification through practical examinations on whether the required level of competence has effectively been reached is required . such practical examinations may be carried out using approved simulators , with a view to further facilitating the evaluation of competence . ### in view of the need to respect safety when exercising the profession of deck crew member , boatmaster and safety expert for passenger vessels , sailing with the aid of radar and bunkering liquefied natural gas - fuelled vessels or sailing liquefied natural gas - fuelled vessels , verification through practical examinations on whether the required level of competence has effectively been reached is required . such practical examinations may be carried out using approved simulators , with a view to further facilitating the evaluation of competence .


### approval of training programmes is necessary to verify that the programmes comply with common minimum requirements regarding content and organisation . such compliance allows for eliminating unnecessary barriers to entering the profession by preventing those who already acquired the necessary skills during their vocational training from passing unnecessary additional examination . the existence of approved training programmes may also facilitate the entry of workers with prior experience from other sectors into the profession of inland navigation as they may benefit from dedicated training programmes that take account of their already acquired competences . ### approval of training programmes is necessary to verify that the programmes comply with common necessary requirements regarding content and organisation . such compliance allows for the elimination of unnecessary barriers to entering the profession by preventing those who have already acquired necessary skills in a maritime working environment , or skills which are related to the maritime professions , during their vocational training , from passing unnecessary additional examination . the existence of approved training programmes may also facilitate the entry of workers with prior experience from other sectors into the profession of inland navigation as they may benefit from dedicated training programmes that take account of their already acquired competences .


### to further facilitate mobility for boatmasters , all member states should be allowed , where practicable , to assess the necessary competence for addressing specific risks for navigation for all inland waterway stretches in the union where such risks are identified . ### to further facilitate mobility for boatmasters , all member states with navigable inland waterways should be allowed , where practicable , to assess the necessary competence for addressing specific risks for navigation for inland waterway stretches in the union where such risks are identified .


### in order to provide minimum harmonised standards for the certification of qualifications and to facilitate the exchange of information between member states and the implementation , monitoring and evaluation of this directive by the commission , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union should be delegated to the commission as regards the setting of standards of competence , standards for medical fitness , standards for practical examinations , standards for the approval of simulators and standards defining the characteristics and conditions of use for a database kept by the commission to host a copy of key data related to union certificates of qualifications , service record books , logbooks and recognised documents . it is of particular importance that the commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level . the commission when preparing and drawing up delegated acts , should ensure a simultaneous , timely and appropriate transmission of relevant documents to the european parliament and to the council . ### in order to provide necessary harmonised standards for the certification of qualifications and to facilitate the exchange of information between member states and the implementation , monitoring and evaluation of this directive by the commission , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union should be delegated to the commission as regards the setting of standards of competence based on cesni standards , standards for medical fitness , standards for practical and oral examinations , standards for the approval of simulators and standards defining the characteristics and conditions of use for a database kept by the commission to host a copy of key data related to union certificates of qualifications , service record books , logbooks and recognised documents . it is of particular importance that the commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level . the commission when preparing and drawing up delegated acts , should ensure a simultaneous , timely and appropriate transmission of relevant documents to the european parliament and to the council .


### the cesni which is open to experts from all member states , draws up standards in the field of inland navigation , including for professional qualifications . the commission may take into account such standards when empowered to adopt acts in conformity with this directive . ### the cesni which is open to experts from all member states , river commissions and social partners draws up standards in the field of inland navigation , including for professional qualifications . with the exception of stretches of navigable waterways in which member states deem that there are specific risks , the commission may only act on cesni standards when empowered to adopt acts in conformity with this directive .


### ( ### a system of recognition might be a first step to enhance mobility in this sector . in the medium - term , a system of comparable vocational and professional training in the member states would ease the mobility and would guarantee safety .


### ‘ deck crew members’ means persons involved in the operation of a vessel navigating on union inland waterways carrying out tasks related to navigation , cargo handling , stowage , maintenance or repair , with the exception of persons solely assigned to the operation of the engines , electrical and electronic equipment ; ### ' deck crew members ' means persons involved in the operation of a vessel navigating on union inland waterways carrying out tasks related to navigation , controlling the operation of the vessel , marine engineering , communication , safety , health & environmental protection , cargo handling , stowage , maintenance or repair , with the exception of persons solely assigned to the operation of the engines , electrical and electronic equipment ;


### ‘ passenger navigation expert’ means a person competent to take measures in emergency situations on board passenger vessels ; ### ' passenger navigation expert ' means a person on board of the vessel who is competent to take measures in emergency situations on board passenger vessels ;


### member states shall verify the authenticity and validity of the documents provided . ### member states with navigable inland waterways shall verify the authenticity and validity of the documents provided .


### member states shall ensure that applicants for specific authorisations referred to in article 6 , other than for that provided in article 6 , provide satisfactory documentary evidence : ### member states with navigable inland waterways shall ensure that applicants for specific authorisations referred to in article 6 , other than for that provided in article 6 , provide satisfactory documentary evidence :


### when there are indications that the requirements for certificates of qualifications or specific authorisations are no longer met , the member states shall undertake all necessary assessments and , where appropriate , withdraw those certificates . ### when there are indications that the requirements for certificates of qualifications or specific authorisations are no longer met , the member states shall undertake all necessary assessments and , where appropriate , withdraw those certificates . member states shall nominate or establish a competent authority to receive complaints concerning the factual accuracy of certificates of qualifications issued by another member state or country . the member states shall inform the commission and cesni about the complaint . the commission shall investigate and take appropriate measures . member states may suspend certificates where the authority finds that they contain or appear to contain factual inaccuracies that could endanger public safety . such suspension shall continue until the member state concerned is satisfied that the certificates are correct . member states shall collect information about complaints and suspensions of certificates and lodge them in a database in accordance with article 23 .


### when there are indications that the requirements for certificates of qualifications or specific authorisations are no longer met , the member states shall undertake all necessary assessments and , where appropriate , withdraw those certificates . ### when there are indications that the requirements for certificates of qualifications or specific authorisations are no longer met , the member states shall undertake all necessary assessments and , where appropriate , withdraw those certificates . member states shall nominate or establish an authority to receive complaints concerning the factual accuracy of certificates of qualifications issued by another member state or country . the member states shall inform the commission and cesni about the complaint . the commission shall investigate and take appropriate measures . member states may suspend certificates where the authority finds that they contain or appear to contain factual inaccuracies that could endanger public saftey . such suspension shall continue until the member state concerned is satisfied that the certificates are correct . member states shall collect information about complaints and suspensions of certificates and lodge them in a database in accordance with article 23 .


### member states shall ensure that persons referred to in articles 4 , 5 and 6 have the necessary competences for the safe operation of a vessel as laid down in article 15 . ### member states with navigable inland waterways shall ensure that persons referred to in articles 4 , 5 and 6 have the necessary competences for the safe operation of a vessel as laid down in article 15 .


### under the responsibility of an administrative authority in accordance with article 16 or ; ### under the responsibility of an administrative authority of a member state with navigable waterways in accordance with article 16 or ;


### member states shall ensure that examinations referred to in article 15 are organised under their responsibility . they shall ensure that those examinations are conducted by examiners qualified to assess the competences and the corresponding knowledge and skills referred to in article 15 . ### member states with navigable waterways shall ensure that examinations referred to in article 15 are organised under their responsibility . they shall ensure that those examinations are conducted by examiners qualified to assess the competences and the corresponding knowledge and skills referred to in article 15 .


### an examination verifying compliance with the standards of competence referred to in article 15 is carried out by qualified examiners . ### an examination verifying compliance with the standards of competence referred to in article 15 is carried out by qualified examiners who are not affected by any conflict of interests .


### simulators used for the assessment of competences shall be subject to an approval by member states . that approval shall be issued upon request when it is demonstrated that the device complies with the standards for simulators established by delegated acts referred to in paragraph 2 . the approval shall specify which particular assessment of competence is authorised as regards the simulator . ### simulators used for training shall be of a comparable standard to those used for the assessment and shall be subject to approval by member states . that approval shall be issued upon request when it is demonstrated that the device complies with the standards for simulators established by delegated acts referred to in paragraph 2 . the approval shall specify which particular assessment of competence is authorised as regards the simulator .


### member states shall designate the competent authorities which will : ### member states with navigable waterways shall designate the competent authorities which will :


### member states shall ensure that : ### member states with navigable waterways shall ensure that :


### equality between men and women is a fundamental principle of the union . according to article 3 of the treaty on european union the promotion of equality between women and men is one of the union’s aims . similarly , article 23 of the charter of fundamental rights of the european union requires equality between women and men to be ensured in all areas , including employment , work and pay . ### gender equality is a fundamental principle of the union . according to article 3 of the treaty on european union the promotion of equality between women and men is one of the union’s aims . similarly , under title iii of the charter of fundamental rights of the european union , everyone is equal before the law and moreover articles 21 and 23 prohibits discrimination and requires equality to be ensured in all areas , including employment , work and pay .


### the union is party to the united nations’ convention on the rights of people with disabilities . the provisions of that convention are thus , from the time of its entry into force , an integral part of the european union legal order and union legislation must as far as possible be interpreted in a manner that is consistent with the convention . the convention provides , among other things , in its article 7 that parties shall take all necessary measures to ensure the full enjoyment by children with disabilities of all human rights and fundamental freedoms on an equal basis with other children . ### the union is party to the united nations’ convention on the rights of people with disabilities . the provisions of that convention are thus , from the time of its entry into force , an integral part of the european union legal order and union legislation must as far as possible be interpreted in a manner that is consistent with the convention . the convention provides , among other things , in its article 7 that parties shall take all necessary measures to ensure the full enjoyment by children with disabilities of all human rights and fundamental freedoms on an equal basis with other children . furthermore , member states shall take effective and appropriate measures to eliminate discrimination on grounds of disabilities in all matters relating to marriage , family , parenthood and relationships , according to article 23 of the convention .


### work - life balance remains however a considerable challenge for many parents and workers with caring responsibilities , with a negative impact on female employment . a major factor contributing to the underrepresentation of women in the labour market is the difficulty of balancing work and family obligations . when they have children , women tend to work less hours in paid employment and spend more time fulfilling unpaid care responsibilities . having an ill or dependent relative has also been shown to have a negative impact on female employment , leading some women to drop out of the labour market entirely . ### work - life balance remains however a considerable challenge for many parents and workers with caring responsibilities , with a negative impact mainly on female employment . a determining factor contributing to the underrepresentation of women in the labour market , aside from discrimination in access to work and in their employment status and payment and in the types of work open to them , is the difficulty of balancing work and family responsibilities . owing to the worsening employment conditions and relations , wage discrimination and low salaries , all of which affect women in particular , the low levels of social protection and maternity and paternity rights protection , along with the limited provision of help with childcare , when they have children , women tend to work less hours in paid employment and spend more time fulfilling unpaid care responsibilities . having an ill or dependent relative has also been shown to have a more negative impact on female employment , leading a significant number of women to drop out of the labour market entirely .


### the current union legal framework provides limited incentives for men to assume an equal share of caring responsibilities . lack of paid paternity and parental leave in many member states contributes to the low take - up of such leave by fathers . the imbalance in the design of work - life balance policies between women and men reinforces gender differences between work and care . conversely , use of work - life balance arrangements by fathers , such as leave or flexible working arrangements , has been shown to have a positive impact in reducing the relative amount of unpaid family work undertaken by women and leaving them more time for paid employment . ### the current union legal framework provides limited incentives for men to assume an equal share of caring responsibilities . lack of paid paternity and parental leave in many member states contributes to the low take - up of such leave by fathers . the imbalance in the design of work - life balance policies between women and men reinforces gender differences between work and care . conversely , use of work - life balance arrangements by fathers , such as leave or adaptable working arrangements , has been shown to have a positive impact in reducing the relative amount of unpaid family work undertaken by women and leaving them more time for paid employment . furthermore , researches 1a shows that take - up rates among parents depend on many inter twined factors . such factors include : information about the type of leave available ; leave compensation and pay disparities ; availability of childcare facilities ; prevailing family organisation models ; and the extent to which workers fear isolation from the labour market when taking leave ; __________________ 1a eurofound promoting uptake of parental and paternity leave among fathers in the european union and the gender employment gap : challenges and solutions .


### the current union legal framework provides limited incentives for men to assume an equal share of caring responsibilities . lack of paid paternity and parental leave in many member states contributes to the low take - up of such leave by fathers . the imbalance in the design of work - life balance policies between women and men reinforces gender differences between work and care . conversely , use of work - life balance arrangements by fathers , such as leave or flexible working arrangements , has been shown to have a positive impact in reducing the relative amount of unpaid family work undertaken by women and leaving them more time for paid employment . ### the current union legal framework provides limited incentives for men to assume an equal share of caring responsibilities . lack of paid paternity and parental leave in many member states contributes to the low take - up of such leave by fathers . the situation is worse in countries where leave is 100% unpaid , which not only disincentivises people from using leave but also fuels inequality and discrimination between men and women , who , on average , receive salaries 16 . 2% lower than men’s in the eu28 . the imbalance in the design of work - life balance policies between women and men reinforces gender differences between work and care . conversely , use of work - life balance arrangements by fathers has been shown to have a positive impact in reducing the relative amount of unpaid family work undertaken by women and leaving them more time for paid employment .


### in order to encourage a more equal sharing of caring responsibilities between women and men , the right to paternity leave for fathers to be taken on the occasion of the birth of a child should be introduced . in order to take account of differences among member states , the right to paternity leave should be irrespective of marital or family status as defined in national law . ### in order to encourage a more equal sharing of caring responsibilities between women and men , the right to paternity leave for fathers or an equivalent second parent as defined in national law to be taken on the occasion of the birth of a child should be introduced . in order to take account of differences among member states , the right to paternity leave should be irrespective of marital or family status as defined in national law .


### in order to encourage a more equal sharing of caring responsibilities between women and men , the right to paternity leave for fathers to be taken on the occasion of the birth of a child should be introduced . in order to take account of differences among member states , the right to paternity leave should be irrespective of marital or family status as defined in national law . ### in order to encourage a more equal sharing of caring responsibilities between women and men , the right to paternity leave for fathers , with an obligatory period , to be taken on the occasion of the birth of a child should be introduced . in order to take account of differences among member states , the right to paternity leave should be irrespective of marital or family status as defined in national law .


### in order to provide greater possibility for parents to use parental leave as their children grow up , the right to parental leave should be granted until the child is at least twelve years old . member states should be able to specify the period of notice to be given by the worker to the employer when applying for parental leave and to decide whether the right to parental leave may be subject to a certain period of service . in view of the growing diversity of contractual arrangements , the sum of successive fixed - term contracts with the same employer should be taken into account for the purpose of calculating the period of service . to balance the needs of workers with those of employers , member states should also be able to decide whether they define if the employer may be allowed to postpone the granting of parental leave under certain circumstances . in such cases , the employer should provide justification for the postponement . given that flexibility makes it more likely that second parents , in particular fathers , will take up their entitlement to such leave , workers should be able to request to take parental leave on a full - time or part - time basis or in other flexible forms . it should be up to the employer whether or not to accept such a request for parental leave in other flexible forms than full - time . member states should also assess if the conditions and detailed arrangements of parental leave should be adapted to the specific needs of parents in particularly disadvantaged situations . ### in order to provide greater possibility for parents to use parental leave during the period when they most need it and it will be most beneficial for raising their children in a harmonious manner , the right to parental leave should be granted for a consecutive , uninterrupted period following the birth of the child of no less than six months , in line with the who’s recommendation . member states may provide for the establishment of supplementary parental leave to enable parents to care for their children beyond the period of parental leave and until the child is twelve years old . the supplementary leave may be taken consecutively , in staggered periods or in combination with part - time work . member states should be able to specify the period of notice to be given by the worker to the employer when applying for parental leave . member states should also assess if the conditions and detailed arrangements of parental leave should be adapted to the specific needs of parents in particularly disadvantaged situations .