### 2. the facility shall have the specific objective of increasing public sector investments , which address the development needs of regions identified in the territorial just transition plans , by facilitating the financing of projects that do not generate a sufficient stream of own revenues and would not be financed without the element of grant support from the union budget. ### 2. the facility shall have the specific objective of increasing public sector investments , which address the development needs of regions identified in the territorial just transition plans and the promotion of regional cohesion by facilitating the financing of projects that do not generate a sufficient stream of own revenues and would not be financed without the element of grant support from the union budget.


### the projects achieve measurable impact in addressing serious social , economic or environmental challenges deriving from the transition process towards a climate-neutral economy and benefit territories identified in a territorial just transition plan , even if they are not located in those territories; ### the projects achieve measurable impact in addressing serious social , economic or environmental challenges deriving from the transition process towards a climate-neutral economy in the union by 2050 at the latest in line with the paris agreement objectives of limiting the rise in global temperature below than 1 ,5c and benefit territories identified in a territorial just transition plan , even if they are not located in those territories;


### financial support provided through financial instruments or budgetary guarantees for an amount lower than eur 500 000; ### financial support provided through financial instruments or budgetary guarantees for an amount lower than eur 250 000 in total;


### where disclosure risks threatening the rights and freedoms of the persons or entities concerned as protected by the charter of fundamental rights of the european union or harming the commercial interests of the recipients; ### where disclosure risks threatening the rights and freedoms of the persons or entities concerned as protected by the charter of fundamental rights of the european union;


### 2. where there is a risk of a conflict of interests involving a member of staff of a national authority , the person in question shall refer the matter to his or her hierarchical superior. where such a risk exists for staff covered by the staff regulations , the person in question shall refer the matter to the relevant authorising officer by delegation. the relevant hierarchical superior or the authorising officer by delegation shall confirm in writing whether a conflict of interests is found to exist. where a conflict of interests is found to exist , the appointing authority or the relevant national authority shall ensure that the person in question ceases all activity in the matter. the relevant authorising officer by delegation or the relevant national authority shall ensure that any further appropriate action is taken in accordance with the applicable law , including , in the cases involving a member of staff of a national authority , with the national law relating to conflict of interests . ### 2. where there is a risk of a conflict of interests involving a member of staff of a national authority , the person in question shall refer the matter to his or her hierarchical superior and/or the authority competent at national and european level. where such a risk exists for staff covered by the staff regulations , the person in question shall refer the matter to the relevant authorising officer by delegation. the relevant hierarchical superior or the authorising officer by delegation shall confirm in writing whether a conflict of interests is found to exist. where a conflict of interests is found to exist , the appointing authority or the relevant national authority shall ensure that the person in question ceases all activity in the matter. the relevant authorising officer by delegation or the relevant national authority shall ensure that any further appropriate action is taken in accordance with the applicable law , including , in the cases involving a member of staff of a national authority , with the national law relating to conflict of interests .


### 3. if the european parliament postpones the decision giving a discharge , the commission shall make every effort to take measures , as soon as possible , to remove or facilitate removal of the obstacles to that decision. ### 3. if the european parliament postpones the decision giving a discharge , the commission , the other eu institutions and the eu bodies provided for in articles 70 and 71 shall make every effort to take measures , as soon as possible , to remove or facilitate removal of the obstacles to that decision.


### (1) since the adoption of regulation (eu) 2021/241 of the european parliament and of the council establishing the recovery and resilience facility ,3 unprecedented geopolitical events and their direct and indirect socio-economic consequences have considerably affected the union’s society and economy. in particular , it has become clearer than ever that the union’s energy security is indispensable for a successful , sustainable and inclusive recovery from the covid-19 crisis , as it is also a major factor contributing to the resilience of the european economy. ### (1) since the adoption of regulation (eu) 2021/241 of the european parliament and of the council establishing the recovery and resilience facility ,3 unprecedented geopolitical events and their direct and indirect socio-economic consequences have considerably affected the union’s society and economy , and its people and have exacerbated the risk of energy poverty. in particular , it has become clearer than ever that the union’s energy security and energy independence are indispensable for a successful , sustainable and inclusive recovery from the covid-19 crisis , as it is also a major factor contributing to the resilience of the european economy.


### (1) since the adoption of regulation (eu) 2021/241 of the european parliament and of the council establishing the recovery and resilience facility ,3 unprecedented geopolitical events and their direct and indirect socio-economic consequences have considerably affected the union’s society and economy. in particular , it has become clearer than ever that the union’s energy security is indispensable for a successful , sustainable and inclusive recovery from the covid-19 crisis , as it is also a major factor contributing to the resilience of the european economy. ### (1) since the adoption of regulation (eu) 2021/241 of the european parliament and of the council establishing the recovery and resilience facility ,3 unprecedented geopolitical events and their direct and indirect socio-economic consequences have considerably affected the union’s society and economy. in particular , it has become clearer than ever that the union’s energy security and energy sovereignty is indispensable for a successful , sustainable and inclusive recovery from the covid-19 crisis , as it is also a major factor contributing to the resilience of the european economy and the achievement of eu climate targets.


### (2) due to the direct links between a sustainable recovery , building the union’s resilience and the union’s energy security , and its role for a just and inclusive transition , the recovery and resilience facility is a well-suited instrument to contribute to the union’s response to these newly emerging challenges. ### (2) due to the direct links between a sustainable recovery , building the union’s resilience and the union’s energy security , and its role for a just , social , green and inclusive transition , the recovery and resilience facility is a well-suited instrument to contribute to the union’s response to these newly emerging challenges.


### (2) due to the direct links between a sustainable recovery , building the union’s resilience and the union’s energy security , and its role for a just and inclusive transition , the recovery and resilience facility is a well-suited instrument to contribute to the union’s response to these newly emerging challenges. ### (2) due to the direct links between a sustainable recovery , building the union’s resilience and the union’s energy security and independence , and its role for a just and inclusive green transition , the recovery and resilience facility is a well-suited instrument to contribute to the union’s response to these newly emerging challenges.


### (2) due to the direct links between a sustainable recovery , building the union’s resilience and the union’s energy security , and its role for a just and inclusive transition , the recovery and resilience facility is a well-suited instrument to contribute to the union’s response to these newly emerging challenges. ### (2) due to the direct links between a sustainable recovery , building the union’s resilience and the union’s energy sovereignty and security , and its role for a just and inclusive transition , the recovery and resilience facility is a well-suited instrument to contribute to the union’s response to these newly emerging challenges.


### (3) the versailles declaration of 10-11 march 2022 of the heads of states and governments invited the commission to propose by the end of may a repowereu plan to phase out the dependency on russian fossil fuel imports , which was subsequently reiterated in the european council conclusions of 24-25 march 2022. this should be done well before 2030 in a way that is consistent with the eu’s green deal and the climate objectives for 2030 and 2050 enshrined in the european climate law. regulation (eu) 2021/241 should therefore be amended to enhance its ability to support reforms and investments dedicated to diversifying energy supplies , in particular fossil fuels , thereby strengthening the strategic autonomy of the union alongside an open economy. support should also be given to reforms and investments increasing the energy efficiency of the member states’ economies. ### (3) the versailles declaration of 10-11 march 2022 of the heads of states and governments invited the commission to propose by the end of may a repowereu plan to phase out the dependency on russian fossil fuel imports , which was subsequently reiterated in the european council conclusions of 24-25 march 2022. this should be done well before 2030 in a way that is consistent with the eu’s green deal and the climate objectives for 2030 and 2050 enshrined in the european climate law. regulation (eu) 2021/241 should therefore be amended to enhance its ability to support reforms and investments dedicated to diversifying energy supplies , in particular fossil fuels , thereby strengthening the strategic autonomy of the union alongside an open economy. support should also be given to reforms and investments increasing the renewables and energy efficiency of the member states’ economies.


### (3) the versailles declaration of 10-11 march 2022 of the heads of states and governments invited the commission to propose by the end of may a repowereu plan to phase out the dependency on russian fossil fuel imports , which was subsequently reiterated in the european council conclusions of 24-25 march 2022. this should be done well before 2030 in a way that is consistent with the eu’s green deal and the climate objectives for 2030 and 2050 enshrined in the european climate law. regulation (eu) 2021/241 should therefore be amended to enhance its ability to support reforms and investments dedicated to diversifying energy supplies , in particular fossil fuels , thereby strengthening the strategic autonomy of the union alongside an open economy. support should also be given to reforms and investments increasing the energy efficiency of the member states’ economies. ### (3) the versailles declaration of 10-11 march 2022 of the heads of states and governments invited the commission to propose by the end of may a repowereu plan to phase out the dependency on russian fossil fuel imports , which was subsequently reiterated in the european council conclusions of 24-25 march 2022. this should be done well before 2030 in a way that is consistent with the paris agreement , the un sustainable development goals , the eu’s green deal and the climate objectives for 2030 and 2050 enshrined in the european climate law. regulation (eu) 2021/241 should therefore be amended to enhance its ability to support reforms and investments dedicated to diversifying energy supplies , in particular fossil fuels , thereby strengthening the strategic autonomy of the union alongside an open economy. support should also be given to reforms and investments increasing the energy efficiency of the member states’ societies and economies , notably through the promotion of renewable energy.


### (3) the versailles declaration of 10-11 march 2022 of the heads of states and governments invited the commission to propose by the end of may a repowereu plan to phase out the dependency on russian fossil fuel imports , which was subsequently reiterated in the european council conclusions of 24-25 march 2022. this should be done well before 2030 in a way that is consistent with the eu’s green deal and the climate objectives for 2030 and 2050 enshrined in the european climate law. regulation (eu) 2021/241 should therefore be amended to enhance its ability to support reforms and investments dedicated to diversifying energy supplies , in particular fossil fuels , thereby strengthening the strategic autonomy of the union alongside an open economy. support should also be given to reforms and investments increasing the energy efficiency of the member states’ economies. ### (3) the versailles declaration of 10-11 march 2022 of the heads of states and governments invited the commission to propose by the end of may a repowereu plan to phase out the dependency on russian fossil fuel imports , which was subsequently reiterated in the european council conclusions of 24-25 march 2022. this should be done well before 2030 in a way that is consistent with the eu’s green deal and the climate objectives for 2030 and 2050 enshrined in the european climate law. regulation (eu) 2021/241 should therefore be amended to enhance its ability to support reforms and investments dedicated to diversifying energy supplies , reducing (and eventually eradicating) the dependency on fossil fuels , thereby strengthening the strategic autonomy of the union alongside an open economy. support should also be given to reforms and investments increasing the energy efficiency of the member states’ economies.


### (6) the repowereu chapter should include new reforms and investments contributing to the repowereu aims. furthermore , that chapter should contain an outline of other measures , financed from sources other than the recovery and resilience facility , contributing to the energy-related objectives outlined in recital (3). the outline should cover measures whose implementation should take place between 1 february 2022 to 31 december 2026 , the period during which the objectives set by this regulation are to be achieved. as regards natural gas infrastructure , the investments and reforms of the repowereu chapters to diversify supply away from russia should build on the needs currently identified through the assessment conducted and agreed by the european network of transmission system operators for gas (entsog) , established in the spirit of solidarity as regards security of supply and take into account the reinforced preparedness measures taken to adapt to new geopolitical threats. finally , the repowereu chapters should provide an explanation and a quantification of the effects of the combination of the reforms and investments financed by the recovery and resilience facility and the other measures financed by other sources than the recovery and resilience facility. ### (6) the repowereu chapter should include new reforms and investments contributing to the repowereu aims. furthermore , that chapter should contain an outline of other measures , financed from sources other than the recovery and resilience facility , contributing to the energy-related objectives outlined in recital (3). the outline should cover measures whose implementation should take place between 1 february 2022 to 31 december 2026 , the period during which the objectives set by this regulation are to be achieved. as regards renewable energy infrastructure , the investments and reforms of the repowereu chapters to diversify supply away from russia and reduce fossil fuel dependency should build on the needs currently identified. finally , the repowereu chapters should provide an explanation and a quantification of the effects of the combination of the reforms and investments financed by the recovery and resilience facility and the other measures financed by other sources than the recovery and resilience facility.


### (8) investments in infrastructure and technologies alone are not sufficient to ensure a reduction of dependency from fossil fuels. resources should be dedicated to the reskilling and upskilling of people , to further equip the workforce with green skills. this is in line with the objective of the european social fund plus , which aims at supporting member states in achieving a skilled and resilient workforce ready for the future world of work. in light of this , resources transferred from the european social fund plus should help support measures for the reskilling and upskilling of the workforce. the commission will assess whether the measures included in the repowereu chapters significantly contribute to supporting a requalification of the workforce towards green skills. ### (8) investments in infrastructure and technologies alone are not sufficient to ensure a reduction of dependency from fossil fuels. resources should be dedicated to the reskilling and upskilling of people , to further equip the workforce with green skills. this is in line with the objective of the european social fund plus , which aims at supporting member states in achieving a skilled and resilient workforce ready for the future world of work. the commission will assess whether the measures included in the repowereu chapters significantly contribute to supporting a requalification of the workforce towards green skills , in line with the horizontal principles as defined in the article 9 of regulation (eu) 2021/1060.


### (10) the recovery and resilience plan , including the repowereu chapter , should contribute to effectively addressing all or a significant subset of the challenges identified in the relevant country-specific recommendations , including the country-specific recommendations to be adopted under the 2022 semester cycle which refer inter alia to the energy challenges that member states are facing. ### deleted


### (10) the recovery and resilience plan , including the repowereu chapter , should contribute to effectively addressing all or a significant subset of the challenges identified in the relevant country-specific recommendations , including the country-specific recommendations to be adopted under the 2022 semester cycle which refer inter alia to the energy challenges that member states are facing. ### (10) the repowereu chapters should contribute to effectively addressing the energy challenges that member states are facing.


### (10) the recovery and resilience plan , including the repowereu chapter , should contribute to effectively addressing all or a significant subset of the challenges identified in the relevant country-specific recommendations , including the country-specific recommendations to be adopted under the 2022 semester cycle which refer inter alia to the energy challenges that member states are facing. ### (10) the recovery and resilience plan , including the repowereu chapter , should contribute to effectively addressing the challenges that member states are facing.


### (11) an effective transition towards green energy and a reduction of energy dependency involves significant digital investments. in light of regulation (eu) 2021/241 , member states should provide an explanation of how the measures in the recovery and resilience plan , including those included in the repowereu chapter , are expected to contribute to the digital transition or the challenges resulting therefrom and whether they account for an amount contributing to the digital target based on the methodology for digital tagging. however , given the unprecedented urgency and importance of energy challenges faced by the union , reforms and investments included in the repowereu chapter should not be taken into account when calculating the plan’s total allocation for the purpose of applying the digital target requirement set by regulation (eu) 2021/241. ### (11) an effective transition towards green energy and a reduction of energy dependency involves significant public investments. in light of regulation (eu) 2021/241 , member states should provide an explanation of how the measures in the recovery and resilience plan , including those included in the repowereu chapter , are expected to contribute to the energy transition or the challenges resulting therefrom.


### (12) pursuant to article 18(4) point (q) of regulation (eu) 2021/241 , the member states should also provide a summary of the consultation process of local and regional authorities and other relevant stakeholders , including , as relevant , from the agricultural sector , for reforms and investments included in the repowereu chapter. such summaries should explain the outcome of those consultations and outline how the input received was reflected in repowereu chapters. ### (12) pursuant to article 18(4) point(q) of regulation (eu) 2021/241 , the member states should also provide a summary of the mandatory and adequate consultation process of local and regional authorities , social partners , ngos and all other relevant stakeholders , including , as relevant , from the agricultural sector , for reforms and investments included in the repowereu chapter. such summaries should depict the timeline and stages of those consultations , note the stakeholders consulted , explain the outcome of those consultations , and outline how the input received was reflected in repowereu chapters , which input was not reflected and for which reason and state how the relevant stakeholders will be involved in the implementation of the repowereu chapters and its monitoring.


### (12) pursuant to article 18(4) point (q) of regulation (eu) 2021/241 , the member states should also provide a summary of the consultation process of local and regional authorities and other relevant stakeholders , including , as relevant , from the agricultural sector , for reforms and investments included in the repowereu chapter. such summaries should explain the outcome of those consultations and outline how the input received was reflected in repowereu chapters. ### (12) pursuant to article 18(4) point (q) of regulation (eu) 2021/241 , the member states should also provide a summary of the consultation process of local and regional authorities , social partners (notably , labour unions) , ngos and other relevant stakeholders , including , as relevant , from the agricultural sector , for reforms and investments included in the repowereu chapter. such summaries should explain the outcome of those consultations and outline how the input received was reflected in repowereu chapters.


### (13) the application of the ‘do no significant harm’ principle is essential to ensure that the investments and reforms undertaken as part of the recovery from the pandemic are implemented in a sustainable manner. it should continue to apply to the reforms and investments supported by the facility , with one targeted exemption to safeguard the eu’ immediate energy security concerns. considering the objective of diversifying energy supplies away from russian suppliers , the reforms and investments set out in those repowereu chapters which aim to improve energy infrastructure and facilities to meet immediate security of supply needs for oil and gas should not be required to comply with the principle of ‘do no significant harm’ and should therefore be exempted from such assessment. ### (13) the application of the ‘do no significant harm’ principle is essential to ensure that the investments and reforms undertaken as part of the recovery from the pandemic are implemented in a sustainable manner. it should continue to apply to the reforms and investments supported by the facility.


### (13) the application of the ‘do no significant harm’ principle is essential to ensure that the investments and reforms undertaken as part of the recovery from the pandemic are implemented in a sustainable manner. it should continue to apply to the reforms and investments supported by the facility , with one targeted exemption to safeguard the eu’ immediate energy security concerns. considering the objective of diversifying energy supplies away from russian suppliers , the reforms and investments set out in those repowereu chapters which aim to improve energy infrastructure and facilities to meet immediate security of supply needs for oil and gas should not be required to comply with the principle of ‘do no significant harm’ and should therefore be exempted from such assessment. ### (13) the application of the ‘do no significant harm’ principle is essential to ensure that the investments and reforms undertaken as part of the recovery from the pandemic are implemented in a sustainable manner. it should continue to apply to the reforms and investments supported by the facility , including the repowereu chapters.


### (13) the application of the ‘do no significant harm’ principle is essential to ensure that the investments and reforms undertaken as part of the recovery from the pandemic are implemented in a sustainable manner. it should continue to apply to the reforms and investments supported by the facility , with one targeted exemption to safeguard the eu’ immediate energy security concerns. considering the objective of diversifying energy supplies away from russian suppliers , the reforms and investments set out in those repowereu chapters which aim to improve energy infrastructure and facilities to meet immediate security of supply needs for oil and gas should not be required to comply with the principle of ‘do no significant harm’ and should therefore be exempted from such assessment. ### (13) the application of the ‘do no significant harm’ principle is essential to ensure that the investments and reforms undertaken as part of the recovery from the pandemic are implemented in a sustainable manner. it should continue to apply to the reforms and investments supported by the facility with no exemptions , in order to safeguard the eu’ energy transition. considering the objectives of diversifying energy supplies away from russian suppliers and reducing/eradicating fossil fuel dependency , the reforms and investments set out in those repowereu chapters which aim to improve energy infrastructure and facilities to meet security of supply needs should be required to comply with the principle of ‘do no significant harm’.


### (15) in addition , to incentivise a high level of ambition for reforms and investments to be included in the repowereu chapter , new dedicated funding sources should be provided. ### (15) in addition , to incentivise a high level of ambition for reforms and investments to be included in the repowereu chapter , new dedicated funding should be provided.


### (16) while extending the current intake rate of allowances to the market stability reserve is needed to prevent in long term a significant increase of the surplus of allowances in the greenhouse gas emission allowance trading within the union , the current economical and geopolitical situation requires the union to mobilise available resources to rapidly diversify union’s energy supply and reduce dependence on fossil fuels before 2030. in this context , decision (eu) 2015/1814 of the european parliament and of the council4 and directive 2003/87/ec of the european parliament and of the council5 should be amended to extend the doubling of the 24% intake rate of the market stability reserve until 2030 , while allowing for an exceptional release and monetisation of a portion of allowances from the market stability reserve and directing revenues towards reforms and investments contributing to repowereu objectives , in the recovery and resilience facility framework. ### deleted


### (17) regulation (eu) 2021/1060 of the european parliament and of the council6 should be amended to provide for the possibility to transfer up to 7.5% of resources of shared management programmes governed by that regulation to the facility for the achievement of the repowereu objectives , in addition to the existing transfer possibility of up to 5%. such a possibility is justified by the need to cover repowereu objectives , providing member states with additional flexibility to address those urgent needs. furthermore , the facility allows for a fast disbursement of funds , making it particularly well suited for financing of urgent energy-related measures. such transfers should be justified by a higher financial need linked to additional reforms and investments included in the repowereu chapter. ### deleted


### (18) regulation (eu) 2021/2115 of the european parliament and of the council7 should also be amended to allow for a possibility to deliver up to 12.5% of the european agricultural fund for rural development through the recovery and resilience facility. such method of delivery is justified by complementarity and synergies between these instruments with regard to the objectives of reducing the use of synthetic fertilisers , or increasing production of sustainable biomethane or renewable energy , in accordance with the objectives of the common agricultural policy set out in article 39 of tfeu. the delivery via the recovery and resilience facility should accelerate the disbursement of funds to beneficiaries from the agricultural sector which is vital considering the urgency of the energy-related objectives. ### deleted


### (19) disbursements under repowereu shall be made following the rules of the recovery and resilience facility until the end of 2026. payments in relation to the resources transferred from shared management funds shall be subject to the availability of funds approved in the annual eu budget. ### (19) disbursements under repowereu shall be made following the rules of the recovery and resilience facility until the end of 2026.


### (20) a request for a dedicated funding for repowereu measures , including allocation from the market stability reserve , transfers from the funds governed by regulation (eu) 2021/1060 and allocated from european agricultural fund for rural development , submitted in a plan , should be justified by a higher financial need linked to additional reforms and investments included in the repowereu chapter. ### deleted


### (22) recent geopolitical events have affected prices of energy and construction materials and have also caused shortages in the global supply chains. these developments may have a direct impact on the capacity to implement some investments included in the recovery and resilience plans. to the extent that member states can demonstrate that such developments make a specific milestone or target , either totally or partially , no longer achievable , such situations may be invoked as objective circumstances under article 21. these developments cannot constitute objective circumstances for revising reforms , as reforms are generally not cost dependent. in addition , no request for amendments should undermine the overall implementation of the recovery and resilience plans. ### (22) recent geopolitical events have affected prices of energy , food and construction materials , caused shortages in the global supply chains and generated new challenges , including the extremely high risk of energy poverty. these developments may have a direct impact on the capacity to implement some reforms and investments included in the recovery and resilience plans. to the extent that member states can demonstrate that such developments make a specific milestone or target , either totally or partially , no longer achievable , such situations may be invoked as objective circumstances under article 21. moreover , to the extent that member states can demonstrate that the achievement of a specific milestone or target conflicts with the achievement of the facility’s objectives , including the repowereu objectives , such situations may also be invoked as objective circumstances under article 21. no request for amendments should undermine the overall implementation of the recovery and resilience plans.


### 4. the loan support to the recovery and resilience plan of the member state concerned shall not be higher than the difference between the total costs of the recovery and resilience plan , as revised where relevant , and the maximum financial contribution referred to in article 11 , including , where relevant , the revenue referred to in article 21a as well as , where relevant , resources from shared management programmes to support repowereu objectives referred to in article 21b. ### 4. the loan support to the recovery and resilience plan of the member state concerned shall not be higher than the difference between the total costs of the recovery and resilience plan , as revised where relevant , and the maximum financial contribution referred to in article 11 , including , where relevant , the revenue referred to in article 21a


### for the preparation and , where available , for the implementation of the recovery and resilience plan , a summary of the consultation process , conducted in accordance with the national legal framework , of local and regional authorities , social partners , civil society organisations , youth organisations and other relevant stakeholders , and how the input of the stakeholders is reflected in the recovery and resilience plan; in particular , the summary of the consultation process shall explain the outcome of the consultations with local and regional authorities and other relevant stakeholders on reforms and investments included in the repowereu chapter and outline how the input received was reflected in the repowereu chapter; ### for the preparation and , where available , for the implementation of the recovery and resilience plan , a summary of the consultation process , conducted in accordance with the national legal framework , of local and regional authorities , social partners , civil society organisations , youth organisations and other relevant stakeholders , and how the input of the stakeholders is reflected in the recovery and resilience plan; in particular , the summary of the consultation process shall explain the outcome of the consultations with local and regional authorities and other relevant stakeholders on reforms and investments included in the repowereu chapter and outline how the input received was reflected in the repowereu chapter. the mandatory consultation process shall be implemented inline with the article 8. of the common provisions regulation 2021-2027’;


### article 21b ### deleted


### (1) the recovery and resilience plan submitted to the commission after [the entry into force of this amending regulation] shall contain a repowereu chapter. the repowereu chapter shall outline reforms and investments , with their corresponding milestones and targets , other than measures referred in paragraph 2 (a) , aiming to contribute to the repowereu objectives , by: ### (1) the recovery and resilience plan submitted to the commission after [the entry into force of this amending regulation] shall contain a repowereu chapter. the repowereu chapter shall outline investments , with their corresponding milestones and targets , other than measures referred in paragraph 2 (a) , aiming to contribute to the repowereu objectives , by:


### boosting energy efficiency in buildings , decarbonising industry , increasing production and uptake of sustainable biomethane and renewable or fossil-free hydrogen and increasing the share of renewable energy , ### boosting energy efficiency in buildings , decarbonising industry , increasing production and uptake of sustainable biomethane and renewable or fossil-free hydrogen and increasing the share of renewable energy , in particular solar and wind energy.


### (4) by way of derogation from articles 5(2) , 17(4) , 18(4) point (d) and 19(3) points (d) , the principle of “do no significant harm” within the meaning of article 17 of regulation (eu) 2020/852 shall not apply to the reforms and investments expected to contribute to the repowereu objectives under paragraph 1 , point (a) of this article. ### deleted


### [...] ### deleted


### (14) further incentives should be provided for member states to request loans , through the clarification of the loan allocation procedure. in accordance with regulation (eu) 2021/241 , member states may request loans until 31 august 2023. an intention to submit a loan request should be communicated to the commission 30 days after the entry into force of this regulation so that the redistribution of the remaining funds can be conducted in an orderly manner. ### (14) further incentives should be provided for member states to request loans , through the clarification of the loan allocation procedure. in accordance with regulation (eu) 2021/241 , member states may request loans until 31 august 2023 , provided that they have informed the commission of their intention to request such loan support. an intention to submit a loan request should be communicated to the commission 30 days after the entry into force of this regulation so that the redistribution of the remaining funds can be conducted in an orderly manner. when expressing the intention to request loan support and when submitting such loan request , member states should act in good faith , so as to ensure the predictability and effectiveness of the redistribution. the commission should inform , simultaneously , on equal terms and without delay , the european parliament and the council about the status of the loan requests and the proposed allocation of the loan supports.


### 1. recalls that the union is responsible for half of the mediterranean basin and cannot remain passive in the face of the multiple political , social , economic and environmental challenges confronting the area; ### 1. recalls that the union is responsible for half of the mediterranean basin and cannot remain passive in the face of the multiple political , social , economic and environmental challenges confronting the area; stresses the importance of direct and diversified cooperation , for regional peace , especially in eastern mediterranean;


### 4. is concerned about the increasing pollution by plastic and domestic waste and calls for a historic effort to limit and manage them by promoting the circular economy; ### 4. is concerned about the extreme urbanization in some cities in the mediterranean basin , as well as the increased pollution by plastic and domestic waste; calls for a historic effort to limit and manage them by promoting the circular economy;


### 5. notes that the european shores of the mediterranean suffer from degraded environmental standards compared to the shores of northern europe (especially in port cities that do not benefit from the protection of emission control areas to reduce airborne emissions); ### 5. notes with concern , that the european shores of the mediterranean suffer from degraded environmental standards compared to the shores of northern europe (especially in port cities that do not benefit from the protection of emission control areas to reduce airborne emissions);


### 9. recalls that overfishing is still a threat to the survival of many species; is convinced that the development of a blue economy can support sustainable and inclusive development and quality jobs; ### 9. recalls that overfishing and destructive fishing practices (such as bottom trawling) are a threat to the survival of many species; is alarmed widespread illegal bottom trawling inside mediterranean marine protected areas shown in recent data1a; is convinced that the development of a blue economy must support sustainable and inclusive development , as well as quality jobs with fully secured social and employment rights;


### 11. draws attention to the impacts caused by tourism due to its seasonality and its uncontrolled development (such as cruises , new polluting leisure activities); ### 11. draws attention to both the environmental and the social impacts caused by tourism due to its seasonality and its uncontrolled development (such as cruises , new polluting leisure activities , precarious seasonal work , increasing housing prices);


### — having regard to article 168 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union (tfeu) which aims to encourage cooperation between member states in order to improve the complementarity of their health services in cross-border areas , ### — having regard to article 168 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union (tfeu) which requires a high level of human health protection in the definition and implementation of all union policies and activities and aims to encourage cooperation between member states in order to improve the complementarity of their health services in cross-border areas ,


### a. whereas the lack of basic infrastructure in certain less-developed regions , which hampers equity of access to healthcare , is the main reason health infrastructure remains a priority for many national governments; ### a. whereas the lack of basic infrastructure and adequate workforce in less-developed regions , which seriously hampers equity of access to healthcare , is the main reason high-quality health infrastructure and adequate and well-trained health workforce should be a priority for all national governments;


### b. whereas the standards of healthcare provision in the eu are not harmonised , as significant differences exist between regions , whereby less-developed regions , which are not able to devote anything close to the amount of resources on healthcare per capita as their more developed counterparts , may face problems in this respect; ### b. whereas the standards of healthcare provision in the eu are not harmonised , as significant differences exist between member states and their regions , whereby less-developed regions , which are not able to devote anything close to the amount of resources on healthcare per capita as their more developed counterparts , face problems in this respect;


### c. whereas the eu instruments aimed at compensating for some of these problems are mostly limited to “soft” law; ### c. whereas the eu instruments aimed at compensating for some of these problems are mostly limited to “soft” law resulting in general shortcomings; whereas a more structured union-level approach complemented by a stronger and more comprehensive legal framework and legally binding means of action is required in this regard in order to enhance cooperation and coordination between member states , better protect peoples’ health and effectively address the existing healthcare disparities;


### d. whereas the commission supports cross-border cooperation in healthcare through numerous studies and initiatives , including through interreg , financed under the structural funds; ### d. whereas the commission supports cross-border cooperation in healthcare through numerous studies and initiatives , including through interreg , financed under the structural funds; whereas , in the 2014-2020 programming period , 169 healthcare-related projects were funded through interreg programmes; whereas the beneficiaries of these programmes are first professionals and then patients , with few projects aimed at specific subgroups such as precarious or deprived populations;


### e. whereas previous analyses have shown that strengthening cohesion policy is necessary in order to reduce disparities between the standards of healthcare provision in the eu; ### e. whereas previous analyses have shown that strengthening cohesion policy is necessary in order to reduce disparities between the standards of healthcare provision in the eu; whereas recent studies still show considerable differences in health indicators across the eu , such as life expectancy , birth and mortality rates , chronic diseases and access to healthcare and infrastructure; whereas health inequalities between eu countries , regions and population groups continue to persist with social determinants , such as employment , income , education , gender , age and ethnicity , playing a key role;


### f. whereas health spending accounts for almost 10 % of gdp in the eu , with people employed in health-related fields making up 15 % of the eu workforce; ### f. whereas health spending accounts for almost 10 % of gdp in the eu , with people employed in health-related fields making up 15 % of the eu workforce; whereas significant differences regarding the level of healthcare expenditure and the availability of doctors and healthcare professionals still persist among member states and their regions;


### 1. underlines that the eu’s cohesion policy invests in health as a key asset for regional development and competitiveness , in order to reduce economic and social disparities; ### 1. underlines that the eu’s cohesion policy invests in health as a key asset for regional development , social convergence and regional competitiveness , in order to reduce economic and social disparities;


### 2. highlights that certain less-developed regions are a long way from uniformly matching the standards of healthcare provision available in more developed parts of the eu , and that convergence in this sense is unlikely to be achieved without help at eu level , particularly through its cohesion policy; ### 2. highlights that many less-developed regions are a long way from uniformly matching the standards of healthcare provision available in more developed parts of the eu , and that convergence in this sense is unlikely to be achieved without help at eu level , particularly through its cohesion policy;


### 4. believes that investments in healthcare innovation , public health and the reduction of health inequalities will continue to offer significant improvements to the daily lives of citizens; ### 4. believes that investments in healthcare innovation , public healthcare systems , sufficient health workforce and the reduction of health inequalities will continue to offer significant improvements to peoples’ daily lives;


### 5. recommends that , when defining healthcare policies at regional and national level , there should be a willingness to overcome silo approaches between health , social and economic policies , with the goal of improving dialogue , synergies and planned investments from the structural funds and other relevant eu programmes , which are able to cater for citizens’ unmet health and social needs; ### 5. recommends that , when defining healthcare policies at regional , national and eu level , there should be a willingness to overcome silo approaches between health , social and economic policies , with the goal of improving dialogue , synergies and planned investments from the structural funds and other relevant eu programmes , which are able to cater for peoples’ unmet health and social needs;


### 6. calls for better synergies and complementarities between cohesion policy programmes to be ensured , with the aim of reducing regional disparities , in particular in horizon europe which should generate new knowledge , and eu4health , making the best possible use of this new knowledge for the benefit of citizens and health systems; ### 6. calls for better synergies and complementarities between cohesion policy programmes to be ensured , with the aim of reducing regional disparities , in particular in horizon europe which should generate new knowledge , and eu4health , making the best possible use of this new knowledge for the benefit of people and public health systems;


### 8. underlines the importance of continuing to build a comprehensive health infrastructure and to reduce the existing disparities to the greatest possible extent; recalls that cohesion policy can make a significant contribution to the building of health infrastructure in every part of the eu , especially in the less-developed regions , in order to create resilient healthcare systems throughout the entire eu , which can respond to current and future challenges; ### 8. underlines the importance of continuing to build comprehensive public health infrastructure and to reduce the existing disparities to the greatest possible extent; recalls that cohesion policy can make a significant contribution to the building of health infrastructure in every part of the eu , especially in the less-developed regions , in order to create high-quality , fully-equipped and resilient public healthcare systems throughout the entire eu , which can better protect peoples’ health and effectively respond to current and future challenges;


### 10. emphasises that citizens in rural areas and the outermost regions often encounter barriers to equality of access to healthcare that limit their ability to obtain the care they need , especially in the form of basic health infrastructure; stresses that , in order for them to acquire sufficient access , as well as the appropriate healthcare which they need , services must be available and obtainable in a timely manner; ### 10. emphasises that people in rural areas and the outermost regions often encounter barriers to equality of access to healthcare that limit their ability to obtain the care they need , especially in the form of basic health infrastructure and adequate health workforce; stresses that , in order for them to acquire sufficient access , as well as the appropriate healthcare which they need , services must be available and obtainable in a timely manner;


### 12. calls for bold cohesion policy measures , in accordance with the legal provisions in force in the eu , in order to attempt to mitigate the lack of healthcare workers in rural areas , and aimed at motivating them to commence or resume practice there; ### 12. calls for bold cohesion policy measures , in accordance with the legal provisions in force in the eu , in order to mitigate the significant lack of adequate healthcare workers especially in rural areas , and aimed at motivating them to commence or resume practice there;


### 13. points out that sustainable long-term investment in the healthcare workforce is more urgent than ever before , given the economic and health impact of the covid-19 crisis , in particular investment in higher education from the esf+ , funding specialisations and sub-specialisations of the health workforce in the countries and regions which are facing a brain drain; ### 13. points out that sustainable long-term investment in the healthcare workforce is more urgent than ever before , given the severe economic , social and health impact of the covid-19 crisis , in particular investment in sufficiency of healthcare workforce , higher education from the esf+ , funding specialisations and sub-specialisations of the health workforce in the countries and regions which are facing a brain drain;


### 16. believes that the covid-19 pandemic represents a historic transformational moment for investments in health systems and future workforce capabilities; ### 16. believes that the covid-19 pandemic represents a historic transformational moment for investments in health systems and future workforce capabilities; calls for the establishment of a strong and sufficiently-funded european health union to enhance cooperation and coordination between member states , reinforce public healthcare systems , better protect peoples’ health and effectively address the long-standing healthcare disparities;


### 17. stresses that cross-border healthcare improvements can benefit patients by enabling equitable access to health services and infrastructure in other member states , including diagnosis and clinical trials , based on the principle of ‘easiest , closest , best and fastest’ access12 ; ### 17. highlights the importance of patient mobility and cross-border access to safe and high-quality healthcare in the eu; stresses that cross-border healthcare improvements can benefit patients by enabling equitable access to health services and infrastructure in other member states , including diagnosis and clinical trials , based on the principle of ‘easiest , closest , best and fastest’ access12; underlines that there is still a lot of room for improvement in this regard;


### 18. acknowledges the existence of the numerous successful health cross-border projects13 across europe , and that the experience gained from these could be capitalised on with a view to enhancing cross-border cooperation in this area , for the benefit of eu citizens; ### 18. acknowledges the existence of the numerous successful health cross-border projects13 across europe , and that the experience gained from these should be capitalised on with a view to further enhancing and facilitating cross-border cooperation in this area , for the benefit of all people in the eu;


### 19. calls for projects facilitating cross-border health contracts , whereby patients travel and are treated within the framework of contractual agreements , to be funded; ### 19. highlights that cooperation on cross-border healthcare requires the support and involvement of a wide range of partners , medical and social institutions , health insurance entities and public authorities; calls for projects facilitating cross-border health contracts , whereby patients travel and are treated within the framework of contractual agreements , to be funded; underlines the importance of guaranteeing an eu-wide insurance coverage;


### 20. believes that centres of excellence could stimulate cross-border contracting to an even greater extent , and that , as a result , such centres could be of great importance in increasing the life expectancy of eu citizens; ### 20. believes that centres of excellence could stimulate cross-border contracting to an even greater extent , and that , as a result , such centres could be of great importance in increasing peoples’ life expectancy;


### 21. calls on the commission to encourage better management of cross-border healthcare , as eu patients still face challenges in accessing healthcare in other member states and only a minority of potential patients are aware of their rights to seek cross-border healthcare; ### 21. calls on the commission to encourage better management of cross-border healthcare , as eu patients still face serious challenges and important barriers in accessing healthcare in other member states and only a minority of potential patients are aware of their rights to seek cross-border healthcare; considers that appropriate pan-european campaigns should be launched in order to inform the public regarding their rights in this regard;


### 23. highlights that several interreg projects have contributed to cross-border regions’ fight against covid-19 throughout the eu , for example through the mobility of intensive care patients and healthcare professionals , and the development of medical equipment; ### 23. highlights that several interreg projects have contributed to cross-border regions’ fight against covid-19 throughout the eu , for example through the mobility of intensive care patients and healthcare professionals , and the development of medical equipment; notes , however , that border closures affected the mobility of patients and healthcare workers , while information about infection data , vaccinations or conditions for patients’ transfers was not harmonised;


### c. whereas the digital transition must go hand in hand with the ongoing green transition (which together are referred to as the twin transitions); ### c. whereas the digital transition must go hand in hand with the ongoing green transition (which together are referred to as the twin transitions); whereas the social dimension thereof must not be disregarded;


### e. whereas , in spite of the fact that the covid-19 pandemic has resulted in a massive expansion of telework and ict-based mobile work (tictm)14 , jobs tend to be more concentrated in cities and urban centres than in smaller towns , suburbs and rural areas; whereas there are marked differences in the ability to telework between high- and low-paid workers , white- and blue-collar workers and between genders15; whereas tictm and the digitalisation of services can facilitate a more balanced geographical distribution of employment and the population; ### e. whereas , in spite of the fact that the covid-19 pandemic has resulted in a massive expansion of telework and ict-based mobile work (tictm)14 , jobs tend to be more concentrated in cities and urban centres than in smaller towns , suburbs and rural areas; whereas its effects on actual working conditions have not been positive in every case and have not been the same for all categories of worker; whereas there are marked differences in the ability to telework between high- and low-paid workers , white- and blue-collar workers and between genders15; whereas tictm and the digitalisation of services can , under certain conditions , facilitate a more balanced geographical distribution of employment and the population;


### 2. highlights the role that the new cohesion policy can play in advancing the twin digital and green transitions; underlines that the digital and innovation components of the new cohesion policy will be key in enabling a sustainable transformation of society and the economy and reaching the goals of the european green deal; ### 2. highlights the role that the new cohesion policy can play in advancing the twin digital and green transitions; underlines that the digital and innovation components of the new cohesion policy will be key in enabling a sustainable and inclusive transformation of society and the economy and reaching the goals of the european green deal; stresses the need for good and affordable digital infrastructure accompanied by measures to develop the digital skills of all user groups , which should also be encouraged by the flexible and complementary deployment of various types of support and funding;


### 10. notes with concern that the expanded use of digital solutions and tictm as a result of the covid-19 pandemic has aggravated the pre-existing inequalities caused by digital divides across population groups; stresses , however , that digitalisation has the potential to benefit vulnerable groups; ### 10. notes with concern that the expanded use of digital solutions and tictm as a result of the covid-19 pandemic has aggravated the pre-existing inequalities caused by digital divides across population groups; stresses , however , that digitalisation also has the potential to benefit vulnerable groups subject to certain conditions , such as the right to disconnect;


### 11. asks the commission and the member states to develop a global strategy , that integrates a gender perspective across all levels in order to tackle social inequalities associated with digitalisation , with a view to enhancing its positive effects; ### 11. asks the commission and the member states to develop a global strategy , that integrates a gender perspective across all levels in order to tackle social inequalities and discrimination associated with digitalisation and the growing emergence of teleworking and hybrid models , with a view to enhancing its positive effects;


### 13. notes that the covid-19 pandemic has accelerated the rise of e-health solutions; warns that some people , such as the elderly or socially disadvantaged , who may be less able to use or afford the necessary technologies , may be left behind; ### 13. notes that the covid-19 pandemic has accelerated the rise of electronic public services and e-health solutions; warns that some people , such as the elderly or socially disadvantaged , who may be less able to use or afford the necessary technologies , may be left behind; points to the need for public investment in areas such as human resources , digital public offerings and proactive support measures to ensure non-discriminatory , rapid , and high-quality access to digital public services , including health services , for all segments of the population;


### 2. observes in this context significant demographic contrasts at both union and member state level between core , metropolitan regions and periphery , often rural areas; ### 2. observes in this context significant demographic contrasts at both union and member state level between core , metropolitan regions and periphery , often rural areas , and between the mainland and islands and outermost regions;


### 15. notes that economic migration has a direct impact on the inclusiveness of cities , requiring tailored policy responses in different territorial contexts; ### 15. notes that with changing migration trends , local and regional authorities face the challenge to promote greater inclusiveness , requiring tailored policy responses and supporting measures in different territorial contexts;


### 21. reiterates the need for further simplification of cohesion policy instruments in order to allow for an easier , but at the same time sound management of financial resources and for maximising synergies among the various eu funds; emphasises the need to reduce red tape and ensure coherent legislation throughout the project implementation process; ### 21. reiterates the need for further place based and integrated approaches of cohesion policy , common agricultural policy national strategic plans and national recovery strategic plans , notably in order to improve synergies among the various eu funds and integrated tools; emphasises the need to reinforce administrative capacity , to reduce red tape and ensure coherent legislation throughout the project implementation process;


### 23. calls on the member state to include demographic challenges in their national development policies and long-term strategies for sustainable development correlated with the european semester , thus ensuring proper financing for demographic issues; ### 23. calls on the member state to include demographic challenges in their national development policies and long-term strategies for sustainable development , thus ensuring proper financing for demographic issues;


### 24. calls on the regions at risk of depopulation to focus investments on universal accessibility to quality services and infrastructure and job creation; insists on investment in education , reskilling of workers , creating entrepreneurial conditions and supporting smes; ### 24. calls on the regions at risk of depopulation to focus investments on universal accessibility to quality services and infrastructure and job creation; insists on investment in education , reskilling of workers , creating entrepreneurial conditions and supporting smes; calls on member states to reinforce their support to this end;


### 26. encourages policymakers at regional and national level to invest in the knowledge economy , as well as in providing services and incentives , to maintain high-skilled workers and to develop research centres in the different regions; ### 26. encourages member-states to fully involved regional and local authorities in at every stage of the development and implementation process of the recovery plan; encourages the local and regional authorities to use the new rrf to invest in the broadband extension in order to invest in foster the digital economy as well as in providing quality and basic public services , to maintain high-skilled workers and to ensure the attractiveness of the depopulated areas;


### 30. insists that investments should be focused on information and communication technology , since this has the potential to reduce the distance between the users and to attract high-skilled workers; stresses the importance of funding the development and uptake of these technologies among companies and schools in rural and isolated regions and regions in industrial transition; ### 30. insists that investments should be focused on information and communication technology , since this has the potential to reduce the distance between the users and to attract high-skilled workers in order to avoid the digital divide and ensure digital cohesion; stresses the importance of funding the infrastructures , the development and uptake of these technologies among smes and schools in rural and isolated regions and regions in industrial transition;


### 17. calls for urgent measures to counteract the depopulation of islands and to improve quality of life , support local businesses and protect jobs; calls also for the development of professional training and employment establishments for island inhabitants to be promoted; ### 17. calls for urgent measures to counteract the depopulation of islands and to improve quality of life , support local businesses and protect jobs; calls also for the development of professional training and employment establishments for island inhabitants to be promoted , particularly for women , who face a higher unemployment rate than men on all eu islands;


### 18. stresses the need for increased support for island agriculture and aquaculture , sustainable fisheries , crafts and the blue economy , including through european cooperation programmes; calls on the commission to draw up a regulation laying down specific measures in the area of agriculture for all nuts 2 and nuts 3 level islands with a view to achieving food autonomy and increasing the competitiveness of their products; ### 18. stresses the need for increased support for sustainable island agriculture and aquaculture , fisheries , crafts and the blue economy , including through european cooperation programmes; calls on the commission to draw up a regulation laying down specific measures in the area of agriculture for all nuts 2 and nuts 3 level islands with a view to achieving food autonomy and increasing the competitiveness of their products;


### b. whereas agriculture on islands is hampered by their remote location , small holdings , limited diversity in production , dependence on local markets , the climate crisis , environmental degradation , biodiversity loss and a lack of energy , fresh water and digital infrastructure; ### b. whereas agriculture on islands is hampered by their remote location , the small size of holdings , the dependence on energy from mainland , the limited diversity in production , the dependence on local markets , as well as by the climate crisis , the environmental degradation , biodiversity loss and the lack of fresh water supply and digital infrastructure;


### — having regard to the convention for the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms , and in particular articles 8 , 9 , 10 , 11 , 13 , 16 and 17 thereof , and to the protocol thereto , and in particular article 3 thereof , ### — having regard to the convention for the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms , and in particular articles 8 , 9 , 10 , 11 , 12 , 13 , 14 , 16 and 17 thereof , and to the protocol thereto , and in particular article 3 thereof ,


### a. whereas foreign interference constitutes a serious violation of the universal values and principles on which the union is founded , such as human dignity , freedom , equality , solidarity , respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms , democracy and the rule of law; ### a. whereas foreign interference constitutes a serious violation of international law , in particular the principles of self-determination and of non-intervention enshrined in the united nations charter , and of the universal values and principles on which the union is founded , such as human dignity , freedom , equality , solidarity , respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms , democracy and the rule of law;


### b. whereas foreign interference , information manipulation and disinformation are an abuse of the fundamental freedoms of expression and information as laid down in article 11 of the charter of fundamental rights of the european union and threaten these freedoms , as well as democratic processes in the eu and its member states , such as the holding of free and fair elections; ### b. whereas foreign interference , information manipulation and disinformation undermine democratic processes in the eu and its member states , such as the holding of free and fair elections;


### c. whereas any action against foreign interference and information manipulation must itself respect the fundamental freedoms of expression and information; ### c. whereas any action against foreign interference and information manipulation must itself respect the fundamental freedoms laid down in the charter of fundamental rights of the european union , in particular the article 11 rights of expression and information , which include respect for the freedom and pluralism of the media , and the freedom to receive and impart information and ideas without interference by public authority and regardless of frontiers;


### d. whereas evidence shows that malicious foreign actors use information manipulation and other interference tactics to interfere in democratic processes in the eu; whereas these attacks mislead and deceive citizens , increase polarisation and divide society , worsen the situation of vulnerable groups , distort the integrity of democratic elections and referenda , and sow distrust in public authorities and democracy; ### d. whereas evidence shows that malicious foreign actors use information manipulation and other interference tactics to interfere in democratic processes in the eu; whereas these attacks mislead and deceive citizens , increase polarisation and divide society , worsen the situation of vulnerable groups , and could potentially distort the integrity of democratic elections and referenda;


### e. whereas foreign interference tactics take the form of disinformation and the suppression of information , but also the manipulation of social media platforms and advertising systems , cyberattacks , hack-and-leak operations , threats against and the harassment of journalists , researchers , politicians and members of civil society organisations , covert donations and loans to political parties , campaigns , organisations and media outlets , fake or proxy media outlets and organisations , elite capture and co-optation , fake personas , pressure to self-censor , the abusive exploitation of historical , religious and cultural narratives , pressure on educational and cultural institutions , taking control of critical infrastructure , pressuring foreign nationals living in the eu and espionage; ### e. whereas foreign interference tactics take the form of disinformation and the suppression of information , but also the manipulation of social media platforms and advertising systems , cyberattacks , hack-and-leak operations , threats against and the harassment of journalists , researchers , politicians and members of civil society organisations , covert donations and loans to political parties , campaigns , organisations and media outlets , fake or proxy media outlets and organisations , elite capture and co-optation , fake personas , pressure to self-censor , the abusive exploitation of historical , religious and cultural narratives , pressure on educational and cultural institutions , taking control of critical infrastructure , and espionage;


### f. whereas foreign interference is a pattern of behaviour that threatens or has the potential to negatively impact values , procedures and political processes; whereas such interference is manipulative in character , and conducted in an intentional and coordinated manner; whereas those responsible for such interference , including their proxies within and outside their own territory , can be state or non-state actors; whereas foreign actors’ use of domestic proxies and cooperation with domestic allies blurs the line between foreign and domestic interference; ### f. whereas foreign interference is a pattern of behaviour that threatens or has the potential to negatively impact values , procedures and political processes; whereas such interference is manipulative in character , and conducted in an intentional and coordinated manner; whereas those responsible for such interference , including their proxies within and outside their own territory , can be state or non-state actors; whereas foreign actors’ use of domestic proxies blurs the line between foreign and domestic interference;


### g. whereas there is a need to agree between like-minded partners on common definitions of foreign interference in order to establish international norms and standards; ### g. whereas there is a need to agree through multilateral dialogue in the relevant international fora on common definitions of foreign interference in order to establish international norms and standards;


### need for a coordinated eu strategy against foreign interference ### deleted


### interference through elite capture , national diasporas and universities ### interference through elite capture


### be. whereas a number of former high-level european politicians and civil servants are hired or co-opted by foreign companies controlled by states operating malicious interference within the eu , in exchange of their knowledge at the expense of the eu and its member states’ interests; ### be. whereas a number of former high-level european politicians and civil servants are hired or co-opted by private companies , often based in non-eu countries , in exchange for their knowledge at the expense of the interests of the citizens of the eu and its member states;


### bh. whereas controlling the national diaspora living on eu soil represents an important element of foreign interference strategies; ### deleted


### bi. whereas different state actors , such as the russian government and the chinese communist party , have been attempting to increase their influence using cultural , educational (e.g. through grants and scholarships) and religious institutes; ### deleted


### bj. whereas there is evidence of russian interference and online information manipulation in many liberal democracies around the world , including but not limited to the brexit referendum in the united kingdom , and the presidential elections in france and the us , and practical support for far-right and other radical-minded forces and actors across europe , including but not limited to france , germany , italy and austria; whereas recent findings about the close and regular contacts between russian officials and representatives of a group of catalan secessionists in spain require an in-depth investigation , given the constant attempts by russia to exploit any matter it can to promote internal destabilisation and disunity in the eu; ### bj. whereas there is evidence of russian interference and online information manipulation in many liberal democracies around the world , including but not limited to the presidential elections in france and the us , and practical support for far-right forces and actors across europe , including but not limited to france , germany , italy and austria;


### 82. condemns all types of elite capture and the technique of co-opting top-level civil servants and former eu politicians used by foreign companies with links to governments actively engaged in interference actions against the eu , and regrets the lack of tools and enforcement needed to prevent these practices; considers that disclosing confidential information acquired during public mandates or when performing civil servant functions , at the expense of the eu and its member states’ strategic interests , should be strictly prohibited; ### 82. condemns all types of elite capture and the technique of co-opting top-level civil servants and former eu politicians used by foreign companies linked to interests contrary to those of european citizens , and regrets the lack of tools and enforcement needed to prevent these practices; considers that disclosing confidential information acquired during public mandates or when performing civil servant functions , at the expense of the eu and its member states’ strategic interests , should be strictly prohibited;


### 84. is concerned about integrated lobbying strategies combining industrial interests and foreign political goals , in particular when they favour the interests of an authoritarian state; calls , therefore , for the eu institutions to reform the transparency register , including by introducing more stringent transparency rules , mapping foreign funding for eu-related lobbying , and ensuring an entry which allows for the identification of funding from foreign governments; considers australia’s foreign influence transparency scheme to be a good practice to follow; ### 84. is concerned about integrated lobbying strategies combining industrial interests and the political goals of third parties; calls , therefore , for the eu institutions to reform the transparency register , including by introducing more stringent transparency rules , mapping foreign funding for eu-related lobbying , and ensuring an entry which allows for the identification of funding from foreign governments;


### 85. calls on the member states to consider the establishment of a foreign influence registration scheme and the creation of a government-managed register of declared activities undertaken for , or on behalf of , a foreign state , following the good practice of other like-minded democracies; ### deleted


### 86. is concerned by the attempts to control the diasporas living on eu soil by foreign authoritarian states; points out the crucial role played by china’s united front , which is a department reporting directly to the central committee of the chinese communist party and tasked with coordinating the external interference strategy of china through the strict control of chinese individuals and chinese companies abroad; points out the experiences of australia and new zealand in dealing with the united front; ### deleted


### 87. underlines that the efforts of the kremlin to implement so-called compatriot policies , particularly in the baltic states and the eastern neighbourhood countries , are part of the geopolitical strategy of putin’s regime whose aim is to divide societies in the eu , alongside the implementation of the concept of the ‘russian world’ , aimed at justifying expansionist actions by the regime; ### deleted


### — having regard to the un convention on the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women (cedaw) adopted on 18 december 1979 , ### — having regard to the un convention on the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women (cedaw) adopted on 18 december 1979 , and general recommendation no. 35 on gender-based violence against women , updating general recommendation no. 19 of the committee on the elimination of discrimination against women ,


### a. whereas gender equality is a fundamental value and an objective of the eu; whereas gender-based violence is an extreme form of discrimination against women and one of the biggest obstacles to achieving gender equality; ### a. whereas gender equality is a fundamental value and a key objective of the eu; whereas gender-based violence in all its forms constitutes an extreme form of discrimination and a violation of human rights entrenched in gender inequality , which it helps to perpetuate and reinforce; whereas this kind of violence is entrenched in and supported by social and cultural beliefs about stereotypical gender roles and by patriarchal structures and practises , and is one of the biggest obstacles to achieving gender equality;


### b. whereas , in spite of numerous instances of formal recognition and progress having been made on gender equality , women and men do not enjoy the same rights in practice and social , economic and cultural inequalities persist; ### b. whereas , in spite of numerous instances of formal recognition and progress having been made on gender equality , women and men do not enjoy the same rights in practice and social , economic and cultural inequalities persist; whereas according to the eige gender equality index 2020 , no eu country has yet fully achieved equality between women and men; whereas the eu’s progress on gender equality is still slow , with the index score improving on average by one point every two years; whereas at this rate , it will take over 60 years for the eu to reach gender equality;


### b. whereas , in spite of numerous instances of formal recognition and progress having been made on gender equality , women and men do not enjoy the same rights in practice and social , economic and cultural inequalities persist; ### b. whereas , in spite of numerous instances of formal recognition and progress having been made on gender equality , women and men do not enjoy the same rights in practice and social , judicial , economic and cultural inequalities persist;


### c. whereas intimate partner violence refers to any act of physical , sexual , psychological or economic violence that occurs between former or current spouses or partners , whether or not the perpetrator shares or has shared a residence with the victim; whereas intimate partner violence is one of the most prevalent forms of gender-based violence , with an estimated 22 % of women having experienced physical and/or sexual violence , and 43 % having experienced psychological violence by their partner6 ; whereas women and children are disproportionately affected by this type of violence; whereas domestic violence is a serious and often hidden social problem that can cause systematic physical and psychological trauma with serious consequences for the victims , as the perpetrator is a person the victim should be able to trust; ### c. whereas intimate partner violence refers to any act of physical , sexual , psychological or economic violence that occurs between former or current spouses or partners , whether or not the perpetrator shares or has shared a residence with the victim; whereas intimate partner violence is one of the most prevalent forms of gender-based violence , with an estimated 22 % of women having experienced physical and/or sexual violence , and 43 % having experienced psychological violence by their partner6 ; whereas women and children are disproportionately affected by this type of violence; whereas domestic violence is a serious and often hidden social problem that can cause systematic physical and psychological trauma with serious consequences for the victims , as the perpetrator is a person the victim should be able to trust; whereas victims are subjected to coercive control from their abuser , characterized by intimidation , control , isolation and abuses;


### 2. notes with concern that in 2021 , following a request for public access to text messages between the commission president and the ceo of a pharmaceutical company regarding the purchase of covid-19 vaccines , the commission refused to even search properly for such text messages , let alone grant public access to them; recalls that registering a document is a consequence of the existence of a document and not a prerequisite for its existence; supports the ombudsman’s finding of maladministration by the commission in this case17 ; ### 2. regrets that in 2021 , following a request for public access to text messages between the commission president and the ceo of a pharmaceutical company regarding the purchase of covid-19 vaccines , the commission refused to even search properly for such text messages , let alone grant public access to them; recalls that registering a document is a consequence of the existence of a document and not a prerequisite for its existence; supports the ombudsman’s finding of maladministration by the commission in this case17 ; as well as the ombudsman’s practical recommendations on how to record text and instant messages sent or received by staff members in their professional capacity; notes that the commission's behaviour has hurt citizens' trust and undermined public scrutiny of the union's work;


### 6. welcomes frontex’s establishment of a document register on a dedicated website; notes , however , that the register contains very few documents related to the implementation of joint operations , which is the agency’s core activity; stresses that this information is necessary for understanding the agency’s work; endorses the ombudsman’s recommendation , following her own-initiative inquiry 4/2021/mhz , that the agency should take a more proactive approach to transparency with a view to ensuring greater accountability for its operations; ### 6. takes note of frontex’s establishment of a document register on a dedicated website; strongly regrets , however , that the register contains very few documents; also regrets that in 2020 , less than 5% of public access to documents requests received full access , thus preventing effective public scrutiny; stresses that public access to documents of frontex is necessary for understanding and scrutinizing the agency’s work; endorses the ombudsman’s recommendation , following her own-initiative inquiry 4/2021/mhz , that the agency should take a more proactive approach to transparency with a view to ensuring greater accountability for its operations;


### 4. question time shall not be specifically allocated in advance. the president shall , as far as possible , ensure that members that hold different political views and that come from different member states are given the opportunity to put a question in turn. ### 4. question time shall not be specifically allocated in advance. the president shall ensure that members that hold different political views and that come from different member states are given the opportunity to put a question in turn.


### 5. the member shall be given one minute in which to formulate the question and the commissioner two minutes in which to reply. that member may put a supplementary question , lasting no longer than 30 seconds and having a direct bearing on the main question. the commissioner shall then be given two minutes in which to give a supplementary reply. ### 5. the member shall be given one minute in which to formulate the question and the commissioner two minutes in which to reply. that member may put a supplementary question , lasting no longer than one minute. the commissioner shall then be given two minutes in which to give a supplementary reply.


### 4. at the end of the debate there shall be an immediate vote. rule 194 , concerning explanations of vote , shall not apply. ### 4. at the end of the debate there shall be an immediate vote.


### 11. members who have not spoken in a debate may , no more than once per part-session , hand in a written statement of not more than 200 words , which shall be appended to the verbatim report of the debate. ### 11. members who have not spoken in a debate may , no more than once per part-session , hand in a written statement of not more than 400 words , which shall be appended to the verbatim report of the debate.


### any member may , on such vote , hand in a written explanation of vote of no more than 200 words which shall be included on the member’s page on parliament's website. ### any member may , on such vote , hand in a written explanation of vote of no more than 400 words which shall be included on the member’s page on parliament's website.


### e. whereas the determination of the number of seats of a potential union-wide constituency falls within the remit of the european council decision on the composition of the european parliament based on article 14(2) teu , while the provisions necessary for its establishment are based on article 223(1) of the treaty on the functioning of the european union; ### e. whereas following the initiative of the european parliament the determination of the number of seats of a potential union-wide constituency falls within the remit of the european council decision on the composition of the european parliament based on article 14(2) teu , while the provisions necessary for its establishment are based on article 223(1) of the treaty on the functioning of the european union;


### 4. stresses that the proposed allocation of seats should include a reserve of 28 additional seats for members elected in an union-wide constituency in line with parliament’s proposal on the electoral law as adopted on 3 may 2022; points out that , in line with that proposal , those seats can only be taken up after the elections following the entry into force of a revised electoral law including the necessary provisions for the union-wide constituency; ### deleted


### 4. stresses that the proposed allocation of seats should include a reserve of 28 additional seats for members elected in an union-wide constituency in line with parliament’s proposal on the electoral law as adopted on 3 may 2022; points out that , in line with that proposal , those seats can only be taken up after the elections following the entry into force of a revised electoral law including the necessary provisions for the union-wide constituency; ### 4. stresses that the proposed allocation of seats should include a reserve of 28 additional seats for members elected in an union-wide constituency in line with parliament’s proposal on the electoral law as adopted on 3 may 2022;


### 1. points out that the eci is the only tool for participatory democracy at eu level that can potentially lead to a proposal for a legal act of the union; considers it essential to involve citizens , in particular young people , in the democratic life of the union; recalls , therefore , that the use of the eci instrument must be enhanced by all available means; ### 1. points out that the eci is the only tool for participatory democracy at eu level that can potentially lead to a proposal for a legal act of the union; deplores , however , the lack of visibility of proposed ecis; recalls , therefore , that the use of the eci instrument must be enhanced by all available means;


### 2. stresses that the online collection of statements of support is fundamental for the success of ecis; welcomes the improvements made by the commission to its central online collection system , including the possibility of customising its features and providing statistics to citizens; is concerned , however , that phasing out individual online collection systems might have a negative effect on the possibility for organisers to use online collection systems tailored to their needs; ### 2. stresses that the online collection of statements of support is fundamental for the success of ecis; welcomes the improvements made by the commission to its central online collection system , including the possibility of customising its features and providing statistics to citizens; strongly believes , however , that phasing out individual online collection systems will have a negative effect on the possibility for organisers to use online collection systems tailored to their needs;


### 10. invites the commission to start a reflection process on the usefulness of reintroducing the option for organisers to use individual online collection systems; ### 10. urges the commission to reintroduce the option for organisers to use individual online collection systems in order to strengthen the digital dimension of the eci;


### 12. calls on the commission to establish a proper dialogue with organisers about their goals and the best possible means to achieve them , in order to assess citizens’ input seriously and effectively; points out that such a dialogue could already be initiated during the collection period; ### 12. calls on the commission to establish a proper dialogue with organisers about their goals and the best possible means to achieve them , in order to assess citizens’ input seriously and effectively; points out that such a dialogue has to be conducted in an open , impartial and non-discriminatory manner and could already be initiated during the collection period;


### — having regard to the eu strategy on victims’ rights (2020-2025) (com(2020)0258) , ### deleted


### 1. considers that the situation with regard of the rule of law , democracy and fundamental rights has substantially deteriorated in a number of member states; recalls in particular the importance of upholding the rule of law and the obligation of member states to ensure effective judicial protection , which is a core value of the union as a community based on law; ### 1. considers that the situation with regard of the rule of law , democracy and fundamental rights has substantially deteriorated in a number of member states; strongly believes there is a need for a monitoring mechanism that fully covers article 2 of teu and underlines that human rights and democracy are common values on which the european union is founded; recalls in particular the importance of upholding the rule of law and the obligation of member states to ensure effective judicial protection , which is a core value of the union as a community based on law;


### 1. considers that the union mechanism on democracy , the rule of law and fundamental rights should primarily aim at preventing and addressing any threat to the union values enshrined in article 2 of the treaty on european union (teu) before any clear risk arises in a member state and article 7 teu should be triggered; ### 1. considers that the union mechanism on democracy , the rule of law and fundamental rights should primarily aim at preventing and addressing any threat to the union values enshrined in article 2 of the treaty on european union (teu) before any clear risk arises in a member state and article 7 teu should be triggered; believes that the monitoring of respect for the rule of law by the member states and the publication of recommendations to that end should be based on the work of a panel of qualified , independent and impartial experts;


### 1. considers that the union mechanism on democracy , the rule of law and fundamental rights should primarily aim at preventing and addressing any threat to the union values enshrined in article 2 of the treaty on european union (teu) before any clear risk arises in a member state and article 7 teu should be triggered; ### 1. considers that the union mechanism on democracy , the rule of law and fundamental rights should primarily aim at preventing and addressing any threat to any of the union values enshrined in article 2 of the treaty on european union (teu) before any clear risk arises in a member state and article 7 teu should be triggered;


### 2. insists that the union institutions are to practise mutual sincere cooperation in line with article 13(2) teu and therefore should all contribute to the defence of the union values in accordance with the procedures set out in the treaties; calls for such activities to be governed by an interinstitutional agreement and for existing mechanisms to be consolidated , while setting out detailed assessments of the situations in all member states , determining preventive and corrective actions; ### 2. insists that the union institutions are to practise mutual sincere cooperation in line with article 13(2) teu and therefore should all contribute to the defence of the union values in accordance with the procedures set out in the treaties;calls for such activities to be governed by an interinstitutional agreement and for existing mechanisms to be consolidated , while setting out detailed independent assessments of the situations in all member states , determining preventive and corrective actions;


### 2. warns that the union is facing an unprecedented and escalating crisis of its founding values , which threatens its long-term survival as a democratic peace project; is gravely concerned by the rise and entrenchment of autocratic and illiberal tendencies , further compounded by the covid-19 pandemic and economic recession , as well as corruption and state capture , in several member states; underlines the dangers of this trend for the cohesion of the union’s legal order , the functioning of its single market , the effectiveness of its common policies and its international credibility; ### 2. warns that the union is facing an unprecedented and escalating crisis of its founding values , which threatens its long-term survival as a democratic peace project; is gravely concerned by the rise and entrenchment of autocratic and illiberal tendencies , further compounded by the covid-19 pandemic and economic recession , as well as corruption and state capture , in several member states; underlines the dangers of this trend for the union’s legal order , the protection of its citizen's fundamental rights and its international credibility;


### 3. recognises that the union remains structurally ill-equipped to tackle democratic and rule of law backsliding in the member states; regrets the inability of the council to make meaningful progress in enforcing union values in ongoing article 7 teu procedures; notes with concern the disjointed nature of the union’s toolkit in that field; ### 3. recognises that the union remains structurally ill-equipped to tackle violations and backsliding on democracy , the rule of law and fundamental rights in the member states; regrets the inability of the council to make meaningful progress in enforcing union values in ongoing article 7 teu procedures and believes that this leads to a deviation from the values provided for in article 2 teu; notes with concern the disjointed nature of the union’s toolkit in that field;


### 3. recognises that the union remains structurally ill-equipped to tackle democratic and rule of law backsliding in the member states; regrets the inability of the council to make meaningful progress in enforcing union values in ongoing article 7 teu procedures; notes with concern the disjointed nature of the union’s toolkit in that field; ### 3. recognises that the union remains structurally ill-equipped to tackle democratic , fundamental rights and rule of law backsliding in the member states; regrets the inability of the council to make meaningful progress in enforcing union values in ongoing article 7 teu procedures; notes with concern the disjointed nature of the union’s toolkit in that field;


### 4. insists that the annual monitoring cycle should be governed by the principles of transparency , impartiality , and equality between member states , be based on objective evidence and lead to effective and realistic measures; ### 4. insists that the annual monitoring cycle should be governed by the principles of transparency , impartiality , and equality between member states , be based on objective evidence and lead to effective and realistic measures; believes in this regard , that the assessment should be carried out by an independent panel of experts and that its findings should be made public;