### 16. is concerned that if the uk includes provisions on data transfers in any future trade agreements , inter alia us-uk trade agreements , the level of protection offered by the gdpr would be undermined; ### 16. is concerned that if the uk includes provisions on data transfers in any future trade agreements , inter alia us-uk trade agreements , the level of protection offered by the gdpr would be undermined and bypassed


### 17. highlights that the uk is the first country for which the commission has suggested adopting an adequacy decision under directive (eu) 2016/680; underlines that this is particularly important given the close partnership with the uk in the area of security and law enforcement; ### 17. highlights that the uk is the first country for which the commission has suggested adopting an adequacy decision under directive (eu) 2016/680;


### 18. notes the uk’s cross-border data access agreement with the us21 , under the us cloud act , which facilitates transfers for law enforcement purposes; is concerned that this will allow undue access to the personal data of eu citizens and residents by us authorities; ### 18. notes the uk’s cross-border data access agreement with the us21 , under the us cloud act , which facilitates transfers for law enforcement purposes; is deeply concerned that this will allow undue access to the personal data of eu citizens and residents by us authorities;


### 25. calls on the commission to assure eu businesses that the adequacy decision will provide a solid , sufficient and future-oriented legal basis for data transfers; underlines the importance of making sure that this adequacy decision will be deemed acceptable if reviewed by the cjeu and stresses that all recommendations made in the edpb opinion should therefore be taken on board; ### 25. calls on the commission to take on board all recommendations made in the edpb opinion.


### 26. welcomes the fact that the adequacy decision will be reviewed every four years and will include a sunset clause , and calls on the commission to keep monitoring the level of data protection in the uk in law and practice in the meantime; ### 26. calls on the commission to keep closely monitoring the level of data protection as well as laws and practices on mass surveillance in the uk in law and practice


### 1. stresses that the european union agency for the operational management of large-scale it systems in the area of freedom , security and justice (the 'agency') offers an important contribution to a safer europe by providing high-quality services and helping to align member states’ technological capabilities with their needs; reminds that the agency’s capacity to both improve existing and develop new information systems was enhanced by its new mandate which entered into force in december 2018; ### 1. stresses that the european union agency for the operational management of large-scale it systems in the area of freedom , security and justice (the 'agency') provides high-quality services and helps to align member states’ technological capabilities with their needs;


### 1. acknowledges that the need to respond swiftly and effectively to a crisis often has a direct impact on the balance between the different powers of the state and recognises that governments and local authorities may be forced to adopt emergency measures with less public consultation than would generally be expected; calls attention to the great importance of upholding an effective system of checks and balances for all actions taken in response to an emergency; ### 1. acknowledges that the need to respond swiftly and effectively to a crisis can have a direct impact on the balance between the different powers of the state and recognises that governments and local authorities may be forced to adopt emergency measures with less public consultation than would generally be expected; calls attention to the great importance of upholding an effective system of checks and balances for all actions taken in response to an emergency;


### 2. is of the opinion that the response to the current covid-19 crisis may have increased the risk and instances of corruption; believes that the response to the covid-19 crisis is also a reminder that openness , transparency , accountability and law enforcement are essential components of democratic governance; ### 2. is of the opinion that the response to the current covid-19 crisis , as example , may have increased the risk and instances of corruption; believes that the response to the covid-19 crisis is also a reminder that openness , transparency , accountability and law enforcement are essential components of democratic governance;


### 3. calls on the member states and the commission to carefully review the policies they enacted during the covid-19 crisis and to define new mechanisms and protocols for any future emergency spending; ### 3. calls on the member states and the commission to carefully review the policies they enacted during the covid-19 crisis and to define flexible european mechanisms , independent national authorities and protocols for any future emergency spending;


### 4. points out that corruption in general undermines the functioning of the state and public authorities at all levels and is one of the key enablers of organised crime; emphasises that effective anti-corruption frameworks and transparency and integrity in the exercise of state power can strengthen legal systems and trust in public authorities and democratic processes; ### 4. takes note that the amounts of money involved in various forms of transnational corruption are so large that they affect not only the integrity of national economies , but european and international economic systems as well; points out that corruption in general undermines the functioning of the state and public authorities at all levels and is one of the key enablers of organised crime and money laundering ; emphasises that effective anti-corruption frameworks , transparency and integrity in the exercise of state power can strengthen legal systems and trust in public authorities and democratic processes;


### 8. believes that it is important to keep citizens engaged in the fight against corruption and fully protected from negative personal consequences; calls on the commission to provide the right platforms for engagement; ### 8. believes it is important to keep citizens engaged in the fight against corruption and fully protected from negative personal consequences; insists on the need to effectively and sustainably protect whistleblowers , as well as investigative journalists , who play an essential role in denouncing the corruption , calls on the commission to provide the right platforms for engagement;


### j. whereas corruption is a major threat in the private and public sphere and has a disproportionate impact on the poor and most vulnerable , increasing costs and reducing access to services; ### j. whereas it is essential to better understand the causes of corruption and the motivations of the actors who lend themselves to such acts , in order to be able to fight effectively against this phenomenon


### r. whereas the lisbon treaty took the direction of reinforcing the role of the european parliament , to bring about more coherence and democratic accountability; ### r. whereas the fight against corruption is essential for the protection of the financial interests of the eu as well as for the maintenance of citizens' confidence in the european institutions , calls for a reinforcement of the means , in particular human , of the institutions responsible for preventing and combating corruption;


### 26. calls for increased effective international cooperation on taking of evidence , mutual recognition , service of documents , and confiscation and freezing of assets , with a view to giving the competent authorities the means to trace , freeze , manage and confiscate the proceeds of crime; ### 26. regrets that too many investigations carried out by olaf , for fraud to the detriment of the eu , are dismissed because of the limitation period has passed or that the cases are too old , calls for greater cooperation between the representatives of national authorities and olaf in order to avoid dismissal for such reasons.


### 3. believes that parliament should have an enhanced direct right of legislative initiative , as it directly represents the european people and not just national interests , which need to be counter-balanced; deplores therefore that this possibility has been regularly deferred to a future treaty revision; ### 3. believes that parliament should have an enhanced direct right of legislative initiative , as it directly represents the european peoples; deplores therefore that this possibility has been regularly deferred to a future treaty revision;


### 2. recalls that the edps is not a decentralised union agency; regrets the court’s position that the small budget of the edps , its low volume of financial transactions and the low level of assessed risks do not justify the publication of a separate report on edps; underlines that the legality and regularity of edps transactions should nevertheless be properly examined by the court as transparency is vital for the appropriate functioning of all union bodies; asks the court to issue separate annual activity reports on the annual accounts of this important union body; ### 2. recalls that the edps is not a decentralised union agency; regrets the court’s position that the small budget of the edps , its low volume of financial transactions and the low level of assessed risks do not justify the publication of a separate report on edps; underlines that the legality and regularity of edps transactions should nevertheless , as a matter of principle , be properly examined by the court as transparency is vital for the appropriate functioning of all union bodies; asks the court to issue separate annual activity reports on the annual accounts of this important union body;


### 1. considers that , in order to face demographic challenges , the union needs third-country workers of all skill levels to increase its economic competitiveness and its global influence as the champion of democracy , inclusion , human rights , free trade in goods and services and the rule of law , and as the leader in the fight against climate change; ### 1. considers that , in order to face demographic challenges , the union needs third-country workers of all skill levels to increase its economic competitiveness and its global influence as the champion of democracy , inclusion , human rights , free trade in goods and services and the rule of law , and as the leader in the fight against climate change; notes that more international migration from third countries and a greater degree of mobility between eu member states remains only one possible answer to the future of mismatches between supply and demand;


### 3. considers that the creation of a union-wide talent pool for third-country nationals who wish to apply for work with a view to migrating legally to a member state , as well as for employers to search for potential employees in third countries , would be an essential tool for achieving the purpose of the proposed act and calls on the commission to include the creation of such a talent pool in its proposal; ### 3. considers that the creation of a union-wide talent pool for third-country nationals who wish to apply for work with a view to migrating legally to a member state , as well as for employers to search for potential employees in third countries , would be an essential tool for achieving the purpose of the proposed act and calls on the commission to include the creation of such a talent pool in its proposal; calls on the commission to create a framework for the validation and recognition of skills and qualifications , based on objections and uniform criteria , ensuring fair treatment during the process , enabling fast-tracks schemes and quick procedures , and facilitating information in an efficient and easy way;


### 4. supports the commission’s statement in its communication of 23 september 2020 on a new pact on migration and asylum regarding the enhancement of short-term mobility as a complement to legal pathways , especially for the purposes of research or study in order to improve upstream cooperation with third countries , for example to stem irregular migratory flows , and asks the commission to explore this direction further; ### 4. requests the commission to explore further the enhancement of short-term mobility as a complement to legal pathways , especially for the purposes of research or study in order to improve upstream cooperation with third countries , for example to stem irregular migratory flows , and asks the commission to explore this direction further;


### 5. welcomes directive (eu) 2021/...15 , but considers it insufficient due to the fact that the labour markets of the union are also in need of low- and medium-skilled workers; calls , therefore , on the commission to include in its proposal an admission scheme for low- and medium-skilled third-country workers , including the creation of a framework for the validation and recognition of their skills and qualifications , based on objective and uniform criteria; ### 5. welcomes directive (eu) 2021/...15 , but considers it insufficient due to the fact that the labour markets of the union are also in need of low- and medium-skilled workers; calls , therefore , on the commission to include in its proposal an admission scheme for low- and medium-skilled third-country workers , including the creation of a framework for the validation and recognition of their skills and qualifications , including vocational training , informal learning and skills , based on objective and uniform criteria;


### 6. considers that the union is in need of more self-employed people and entrepreneurs in order to remain competitive; calls on the commission to include in its proposal an admission scheme for entry and residence of self-employed people and entrepreneurs , in particular those who establish small and medium-sized enterprises and start-ups , based on objective and uniform criteria; ### 6. considers that the union is in need of more self-employed people and entrepreneurship in order to remain competitive; notes the cross cultural interactions that immigrants bring lead to enhanced innovation; calls on the commission to include in its proposal an admission scheme for entry and residence of self-employed people and entrepreneurs , in particular those who establish small and medium-sized enterprises and start-ups , based on objective and uniform criteria;


### 7. requests the commission to include in its proposal a framework for talent partnerships between member states and third countries , tailored to the situation of the third country in question , which should include vocational training programmes based on skills , in particular aptitude tests , workplace observation and simulations , and that member states could opt into on a voluntary basis; calls on the commission to ensure that the framework allows for parliament to be able to fully exercise its scrutiny and evaluation role; ### 7. insists that the talent partnerships should be developed in consultation with social partners , civil society organisations and all relevant parts of government on the european side , but also in third countries; requests the commission to include in its proposal a framework for talent partnerships between member states and third countries , tailored to the situation of the third country in question , which should include vocational training programmes based on skills , in particular aptitude tests , workplace observation and simulations , and that member states could opt into on a voluntary basis; calls on the commission to ensure that the framework allows for parliament to be able to fully exercise its scrutiny and evaluation role;


### 8. notes that the objective of directive 2011/98/eu to simplify and harmonise the rules concerning permits currently applicable in the member states has not been fully achieved with some of the provisions being implemented in different ways across union; requests the commission to take the necessary steps to ensure that the member states implement that directive fully; further considers that that directive should be amended to allow applications for a single permit to be lodged from within both a member state and a third country , and , in order to further simplify and harmonise the rules , to clearly regulate the procedure for obtaining an entry visa so as to avoid applicants having to submit the documents needed to obtain a single permit twice , and calls on the commission to include such amendments in its proposal; ### 8. notes that the objective of directive 2011/98/eu to simplify and harmonise the rules concerning permits currently applicable in the member states and promote equal treatment has not been fully achieved with some of the provisions being implemented in different ways across union; requests the commission to take the necessary steps to ensure that the member states implement that directive fully; further considers that that directive should be amended to require that applications for a single permit may be lodged from within both a member state and a third country , and , in order to further simplify and harmonise the rules , to clearly regulate the procedure for obtaining an entry visa so as to avoid applicants having to submit the documents needed to obtain a single permit twice , and to reduce dependency of workers and risks of exploitation , and calls on the commission to include such amendments in its proposal;


### 9. requests that the commission includes in its proposal the establishment of a transnational advisory service network , to be managed by the commission , for legally migrating third-country workers , with each member state designating a lead authority to process applications and to coordinate the advice and information provided to third-country nationals applying for work in the union; insists that the lead authorities should be responsible for the sharing of information among member states on third-country workers and should act as contact points for the talent pool; asks that the lead authorities be responsible also for close coordination with one another with regard to applications lodged for a single permit to reside and work in accordance with directive 2011/98/eu in order to avoid double submissions; ### 9. requests that the commission includes in its proposal the establishment of a transnational advisory service network , to be managed by the commission , for third-country workers , with each member state designating a lead authority to process applications and to coordinate the advice and information provided to third-country nationals applying for work in the union; insists that the lead authorities should be responsible for the sharing of information among member states on third-country workers and should act as contact points for the talent pool; asks that the lead authorities be responsible also for close coordination with one another with regard to applications lodged for a single permit to reside and work in accordance with directive 2011/98/eu in order to avoid double submissions;


### 10. calls on the commission to include in its proposal an amendment to directive 2014/36/eu to allow holders of work permits under that directive a period of three months to seek new employment after having left their previous employer without having their work permit revoked; ### 10. calls on the commission to include in its proposal an amendment to directive 2014/36/eu to allow holders of work permits under that directive a period of three months , which can be extended with another three months , to seek new employment after having left their previous employer without having their work permit revoked;


### - the european parliament considers that the legislative act to be adopted should establish a union-wide talent pool for third-country nationals who wish to apply for work in and migrate legally to a member state , as well as for union-based employers to search in third countries for potential employees , and should facilitate the admission and free movement of third-country workers. the european parliament considers that such a union-wide talent pool should establish synergies with the existing framework and the legislative act should therefore amend regulation (eu) 2016/589 in order to expand the current scope of the eures portal , established by that regulation; ### - the european parliament considers that the legislative act to be adopted should establish a union-wide talent pool for third-country nationals who wish to apply for work in and migrate legally to a member state , as well as for union-based employers to search in third countries for potential employees , and should facilitate the admission and free movement of third-country workers. the job matching through the talent pool should happen on a voluntary basis. the european parliament considers that such a union-wide talent pool should establish synergies with the existing framework and the legislative act should therefore amend regulation (eu) 2016/589 in order to expand the current scope of the eures portal , established by that regulation;


### - it is a pressing need for the union to improve its attractiveness for all skilled third-country workers , not only for highly-skilled workers. with the revision of the directive (eu) [eu blue card] , the union has taken further steps to achieve that goal for highly-skilled third-country workers. however , it is imperative to achieve that goal for low- and medium-skilled third-country workers in order to fill vacancies and improve matching on the member states’ labour markets , further enhancing the union’s economic competitiveness. ### - it is a pressing need for the union to allow the admission of all skilled third-country workers , not only for highly-skilled workers. with the revision of the directive (eu) [eu blue card] , the union has taken further steps to achieve that goal for highly-skilled third-country workers. however , it is imperative to achieve that goal for low- and medium-skilled third-country workers in order to fill vacancies and improve matching on the member states’ labour markets , further enhancing the union’s economic competitiveness. when envisaging new eu labour migration systems or schemes , skills should be approached in the same way as sectors , privileging efficient , streamlined processes which do not segment the market based on presumptive skills (or wage)levels.


### - to properly address that issue , the european parliament calls on the commission to , within the legislative act to be adopted , include provisions setting up an admission scheme with conditions of entry and residence for low- and medium-skilled third-country workers. the scheme should include the creation of a framework within which third-country workers are able to have their skills and qualifications properly recognised and validated for use on the member states’ labour markets. ### - to properly address that issue , the european parliament calls on the commission to , within the legislative act to be adopted , include provisions setting up an admission scheme with conditions of entry and residence for low- and medium-skilled third-country workers. the scheme should include the creation of a framework within which third-country workers are able to have their skills and qualifications properly recognised and validated for use on the member states’ labour markets. in addition , complementary measures to support inclusion of workers and their families regardless of status are crucial. these include non-discriminatory policies on - alongside measures to facilitate -access to education , health care and housing , and pathways to regularise status on various grounds.


### - the european parliament calls on the commission to prepare a tailor-made framework for talent partnerships in which member states can voluntarily participate and to include this in the legislative act to be adopted. those partnerships would be open to third-country workers of all skill-levels , as well as students and graduates , and would serve as an efficient tool for member states to match the skills of workers in third countries with the demands of the member states’ labour markets which the domestic workforce cannot meet. the aim of those partnerships is to add another legal channel as a mobility-option for third-country nationals who wish to migrate to the union for work and to tackle the issues of labour market shortages and mismatches across the union. the practical implementation of the partnerships would rely on close cooperation with national authorities , labour market institutions and partners. the commission should ensure that the european parliament is able to , on a regular basis , scrutinise and evaluate the functioning of the partnerships , as well propose recommendations to improve the overall functioning of the framework. ### - the european parliament calls on the commission to prepare a tailor-made framework for talent partnerships in which member states can voluntarily participate and to include this in the legislative act to be adopted. those partnerships would be open to third-country workers of all skill-levels , as well as students and graduates , and would serve as an efficient tool for member states to match the skills of workers in third countries with the demands of the member states’ labour markets which the domestic workforce cannot meet. the aim of those partnerships is to add another legal channel as a mobility-option for third-country nationals who wish to migrate to the union for work and to tackle the issues of labour market shortages and mismatches across the union. they should be developed involving social partners , civil society organisations and all relevant parts of government on the european side , but also in third countries. the practical implementation of the partnerships would rely on close cooperation with national authorities , labour market institutions and partners. the commission should ensure that the european parliament is able to , on a regular basis , scrutinise and evaluate the functioning of the partnerships , as well propose recommendations to improve the overall functioning of the framework.


### - the european parliament is of the view that systematic cooperation between and engagement with the authorities of member states and of third countries is required to enhance legal pathways for migration. to achieve that goal , the european parliament considers that the legislative act to be adopted should establish a transnational advisory service network , managed by the commission , for third-country workers , with each member state designating a lead authority to coordinate the advice and information provided to legally migrating third-country nationals applying for work in the union. the authorities in each member state should also be responsible for closely coordinating with one another with regard to applications lodged for a single permit to reside and work in the union in accordance with directive 2011/98/eu in order to avoid double submissions. that network should also take into account national specificities and different demands of national labour markets. ### - the european parliament is of the view that systematic cooperation between and engagement with the authorities of member states and of third countries is required to enhance legal pathways for migration. to achieve that goal , the european parliament considers that the legislative act to be adopted should establish a transnational advisory service network , managed by the commission , for third-country workers , with each member state designating a lead authority to coordinate the advice and information provided to legally migrating third-country nationals applying for work in the union. the authorities in each member state should also be responsible for closely coordinating with one another with regard to applications lodged for a single permit to reside and work in the union in accordance with directive 2011/98/eu in order to avoid double submissions. that network should also take into account national specificities and different demands of national labour markets. furthermore , the commission should issue guidelines and recommendations on good practices on granting migrants a more secure legal status.


### g. whereas freedom of expression has been restricted in some member states; whereas strategic lawsuits against public participation (slapps) have also been used to target civil society organisations (csos) and human rights defenders; whereas these exert a severe chilling effect on freedom of expression; ### g. whereas freedom of expression and access to information have been restricted in some member states; whereas strategic lawsuits against public participation (slapps) have also been used to target civil society organisations (csos) , human rights defenders and activists working in the fields of environment , the rule of law , lgbtiq rights and women's rights , in several member states , particularly in poland , france , romania , germany , austria , bulgaria , croatia , italy , portugal , spain and slovakia; whereas these exert a severe chilling effect on freedom of expression;


### i. whereas in some member states , restrictions have been imposed with the deliberate aim of limiting civic space and are accompanied by legal , administrative and fiscal harassment , criminalisation and negative rhetoric aimed at stigmatising and delegitimising csos and draining their capacity to carry out their legitimate work; whereas hate speech , harassment and attacks also emanate from non-state actors; whereas csos working on women’s rights , including sexual and reproductive health and rights , environmental issues and the protection of minorities and lgbti rights , as well as those providing assistance to asylum seekers and those involved in search and rescue operations , are particularly exposed; ### i. whereas in some member states , restrictions have been imposed with the deliberate aim of limiting civic space and are accompanied by legal , administrative and fiscal harassment , criminalisation and negative rhetoric aimed at stigmatising and delegitimising csos and draining their capacity to carry out their legitimate work; whereas hate speech , harassment and attacks also emanate from non-state actors; whereas csos and human rights defenders working on women’s rights , including sexual and reproductive health and rights , environmental issues and the protection of minorities and lgbti rights , as well as those providing assistance to migrants and asylum seekers and those involved in search and rescue operations , are particularly exposed;


### j. whereas certain member states have placed restrictions on csos’ ability to engage in political activities; whereas in others , accusations that csos are political have become tools to stigmatise and delegitimise them; whereas csos report discriminatory and restrictive funding practices in certain member states; ### j. whereas national csos acting as watchdogs , in particular by engaging in monitoring and reporting about violations of rights and liberties , advocacy and litigation are particularly targeted by restrictions , retaliatory measures and surveillance; whereas certain member states have placed restrictions on csos’ ability to engage in political activities; whereas in others , accusations that csos are political have become tools to stigmatise and delegitimise them; whereas csos report discriminatory and restrictive funding practices in certain member states;


### l. whereas the right to peaceful assembly has been restricted due to necessary social distancing rules in a majority of member states; whereas in some member states , the powers of law enforcement authorities are increasing , generating concerns over their necessity and proportionality; ### l. whereas the right to peaceful assembly has been restricted due to necessary social distancing rules in a majority of member states; whereas some member states have passed laws restricting the right to peaceful assembly in the past years , also concerning permission and notification requirements; whereas in some member states , the powers of law enforcement authorities are increasing , generating concerns over their necessity and proportionality;


### o. whereas foreign funding has been the target of legal and political attacks in some member states; ### o. whereas foreign funding has been the target of legal and political attacks in some member states; whereas any restrictions imposed on civil society organisations receiving foreign funding is contrary to union law , including the rights to freedom of association and public participation , as recently found by the cjeu1a in relation to the hungarian law lxxvi of 2017 on the transparency of organisation supported from abroad;


### 1. asserts the crucial role played by csos in the realisation of eu values and fundamental rights , and the implementation of eu policies and strategies; stresses their key contribution to informed public debate , articulating aspirations present in society , giving a voice to vulnerable and marginalised people , providing expertise in policy-making , promoting active citizenship and acting as schools of democracy; ### 1. asserts the crucial role played by csos in the realisation of democratic values , equality , the rule of law and fundamental rights , and the implementation of eu law , policies and strategies; stresses their key contribution to informed public debate , articulating aspirations present in society , giving a voice to vulnerable and marginalised people , giving access to crucial services , providing expertise in policy-making , promoting active citizenship and acting as schools of democracy and indispensable watchdogs exercising democratic control over state institutions and ensuring accountability for public action;


### 1. notes with deep concern the overall shrinking of space for civil society in the eu , which represents a serious threat to democracy and fundamental rights and has worsened during the covid-19 crisis; ### 1. general remarks notes with deep concern the overall shrinking of space for civil society in the eu , which represents a serious threat to democracy and fundamental rights and has worsened during the covid-19 crisis;


### 2. emphasises that for civil society organisations to thrive , civic space must be an enabling and safe environment free from undue interference , intimidation , harassment and chilling effects; ### 2. emphasises that for civil society organisations to thrive , civic space must be an enabling and safe environment free from undue interference , intimidation , harassment and chilling effects; reminds member states of their positive obligation to ensure an enabling environment for civil society organisations , where they can exercise their fundamental watchdog role freely and without hindrance from both state and non-state actors;


### 2. emphasises that for civil society organisations to thrive , civic space must be an enabling and safe environment free from undue interference , intimidation , harassment and chilling effects; ### 2. emphasises that for civil society organisations to thrive , civic space must be an enabling and safe environment free from undue interference , intimidation , harassment and chilling effects , such as slapps , incitement to hatred and/or violence against rights defenders and organisations , and the creation of legal or administrative hurdles affecting their daily operations;


### 2. underlines that the main responsibility for this regression lies with member states; ### 2. responsibility of member states and obligations under european and international law


### 2. underlines that the main responsibility for this regression lies with member states; ### 2. underlines that the main responsibility for this regression lies with member states and that it is driven by political agendas that disregard or purposefully hamper democracy;


### 3. condemns all attempts by member states to control civil society actors and discriminate between them on a political basis , including by over-regulating the sector; ### 3. condemns all attempts by member states to control civil society actors and discriminate between them on a political basis , including by over-regulating the sector and introducing disproportionate rules on the establishment and functioning of civil society organisations under pretexts such as the protection of national security , republican or democratic values;


### 3. condemns all attempts by member states to control civil society actors and discriminate between them on a political basis , including by over-regulating the sector; ### 3. member states’ legislation and public policies aiming at controlling and censoring civil society condemns all attempts by member states to control civil society actors and discriminate between them on a political basis , including by over-regulating the sector;


### 4. strongly condemns , in particular , the adoption by hungarian and polish authorities of acts that restrict the access of non-governmental organisations to funding and that target lgbtiq+ persons and activists; ### 4. strongly condemns , in particular , the adoption by hungarian and polish authorities of acts that restrict the access of non-governmental organisations to funding and that target the rights of migrants , refugees , roma , women , lgbtiq+ people and those who defend them;


### 5. welcomes the commission’s acknowledgement of the importance of civil society in a number of eu policies and strategies; stresses , however , that the fragmented nature of this approach results in little effective improvement of the situation of csos on the ground; ### 5. welcomes the commission’s acknowledgement of the importance of civil society in a number of eu policies and strategies; regrets , however , that the fragmented nature of this approach results in little effective improvement of the situation of csos on the ground;


### 5. deplores the insufficient efforts of member states to facilitate and guarantee access to stable long-term funding for civil society actors; ### 5. difficulties faced by civil society actors in relation to funding deplores the insufficient efforts of member states to facilitate and guarantee access to stable long-term funding for civil society actors;


### 6. urges the commission , therefore , to adopt a comprehensive civil society strategy that integrates all existing tools , fills monitoring , support and protection gaps , and gives genuine political recognition to the crucial role played by csos in the realisation of eu values and policies; ### 6. urges the commission , therefore , to adopt a comprehensive civil society strategy that integrates all existing tools , fills monitoring , support and protection gaps , and gives genuine political recognition to the crucial role played by csos in the realisation of democratic values and policies , while clearly linking monitoring and reporting tools to enforcement mechanisms to ensure timely and effective follow-up action;


### 6. condemns the severe restrictions imposed by member states on the right to protest , the disproportionate use of violence by public authorities , and the arbitrary arrests of protesters; ### 6. condemns the severe restrictions imposed by member states on the right to protest , whether through the prohibition of demonstrations , including by misusing state of emergency measures , through the disproportionate use of violence by public authorities , and the arbitrary arrests of protesters for activities that should not constitute criminal offences;


### 6. condemns the severe restrictions imposed by member states on the right to protest , the disproportionate use of violence by public authorities , and the arbitrary arrests of protesters; ### 6. non-legislative threats restricting the civic space condemns the severe restrictions imposed by member states on the right to protest , the disproportionate use of violence by public authorities , and the arbitrary arrests of protesters;


### 7. stresses that the ability of csos to act depends on the existence of an enabling legal and political environment , in particular on the exercise of freedom of association , peaceful assembly and expression; urges member states to guarantee the exercise of these rights in conformity with international standards; ### 7. stresses that the ability of csos to act depends on the existence of an enabling legal and political environment , in particular on the exercise of freedom of association , peaceful assembly and expression and the right to public participation; urges member states to guarantee the exercise of these rights in conformity with international standards;


### 7. underlines that civil society actors are increasingly subjected to targeted violence , whether by police forces or private parties; ### 7. underlines that civil society actors are increasingly subjected to hate speech , harassment and violence , whether by police forces or private parties;


### 8. considers that the contribution of csos to the single market and the social economy , as well as their role in the realisation of eu values and policies , is a strong argument for removing the barriers to their operations at eu level; calls on the commission , therefore , to propose legislation to approximate member state laws in this regard; ### 8. considers that the contribution of csos to the single market and the social economy , as well as their role in the realisation of eu values and policies , is a strong argument for removing the barriers to their operations at eu level;


### 8. condemns the increasing criminalisation and judicial harassment of civil society actors; is concerned about the growing use of strategic lawsuits against public participation (slapps) by powerful public and private actors , and strongly recommends the adoption of an anti-slapps directive protecting all parties legitimately engaging in public participation; ### 8. condemns the increasing criminalisation and judicial harassment of civil society actors , in particular those working with minority groups , refugees and other migrants , those working against racism , and those working for women’s rights and sexual and reproductive health rights , and lgbti rights; is concerned about the growing use of strategic lawsuits against public participation (slapps) by powerful public and private actors , and strongly recommends the adoption of an anti-slapps directive protecting all actors legitimately engaging in public participation;


### 9. supports the commission in launching infringement procedures against member states that unduly restrict the freedoms of assembly and association; ### 9. supports the commission in closely monitoring the situation across member states and in launching infringement procedures against member states that arbitrarily restricts civil society space , obstructs their work or otherwise unduly restrict freedoms of assembly and association; encourages the commission to request interim measures to the cjeu when there is a risk of irreparable harm;


### 9. supports the commission in launching infringement procedures against member states that unduly restrict the freedoms of assembly and association; ### 9. general measures to monitoring and protect the civic space supports the commission in launching infringement procedures against member states that unduly restrict the freedoms of assembly and association;


### 10. calls on the member states to limit peaceful assemblies only if strictly necessary and in a proportionate way; condemns any unnecessary use of force against protesters , as well as their criminalisation and surveillance; calls on the commission to issue guidelines for the protection of freedom of peaceful assembly; ### 10. calls on the member states to respect and facilitate the exercise of the right to peaceful assembly , which can only be limited in exceptional circumstances if strictly necessary and in a proportionate way; condemns any use of force against protesters , as well as their criminalisation , prosecution and surveillance; calls on the commission to issue guidelines for the protection of freedom of peaceful assembly;


### 10. supports the creation of an eu alert mechanism for attacks on civil society; ### 10. supports the creation of an eu alert mechanism for attacks on civil society to report attacks , register alerts , map trends and provide timely and targeted support to victims;


### 11. denounces the extreme inequality in access to information and decision-makers between industry representatives on the one hand , and civil society actors on the other , including within the eu institutions; ### 11. limitations to an open and transparent dialogue between public institution and civil society denounces the extreme inequality in access to information and decision-makers between industry representatives on the one hand , and civil society actors on the other , including within the eu institutions;


### 12. condemns any threats and attacks perpetrated on csos by state actors; equally condemns all instances of attacks and threats perpetrated by non-state actors , including , but not limited to slapps; ### 12. condemns any threats and attacks perpetrated on csos by state actors; equally condemns all instances of attacks and threats perpetrated by non-state actors , including , but not limited to slapps , and condemns the failure of state actors to protect csos and human rights defenders against such attacks and threats;


### 12. deplores the growing concentration of media ownership at the expense of plurality , independence and fair public representation of the ideas and actions of civil society organisations. ### 12. media concentration and threats to the fair representation of civil society deplores the growing concentration of media ownership at the expense of plurality , independence and fair public representation of the ideas and actions of civil society organisations.


### 13. urges member states to unequivocally condemn such acts , adopt preventive measures and systematically investigate any related allegations; ### 13. urges member states to unequivocally condemn such acts , adopt preventive measures and systematically , promptly and independently investigate any related allegations;


### 15. urges the commission to propose a comprehensive set of measures and recommendations to ensure long-term financing for csos; stresses the importance of securing complementary sources of funding; emphasises that public funding should cover all types of civil society activities; ### 15. urges the commission to propose a comprehensive set of measures and recommendations to ensure long-term and predictable core financing for csos , including the funding of their operational activities related to advocacy and monitoring; stresses the importance of securing complementary sources of funding; emphasises that public funding should cover all types of civil society activities;


### 16. is gravely concerned by the emergence of gongos and related discriminatory and often opaque public funding practices; warns against their detrimental effect on the perceived legitimacy of csos and hence on citizens’ willingness to engage in active citizenship; ### 16. is gravely concerned by the emergence of gongos and related undemocratic , discriminatory and often opaque public funding practices; warns against their detrimental effect on pluralism and diversity within civil society , the perceived legitimacy of csos and hence on citizens’ willingness to engage in active citizenship; calls on member states to investigate and take action against groups instigating hate; urges the commission to address allegations of unequal distribution of eu funding to civil society organisations in the context of the implementation of the rule of law conditionality regulation;


### 17. welcomes the adoption with an increased budget of the citizens , equality , rights and values programme; calls on the commission to actively consult csos in the definition of work programmes and funding mechanisms so as to ensure transparency , flexibility and user-friendliness; welcomes re-granting mechanisms in the union values strand; ### 17. welcomes the adoption with an increased budget of the citizens , equality , rights and values programme; calls on the commission to actively consult csos in the definition of work programmes and funding mechanisms so as to ensure transparency , flexibility and user-friendliness; welcomes re-granting mechanisms in the union values strand; calls for specific emergency funding and practical support for civic actors and human rights defenders at risk;


### 18. urges the commission to ensure that eu funds are only awarded to organisations that are strictly independent from any government and fully adhere to eu values; ### 18. urges the commission to ensure that eu funds earmarked to support civil society are only awarded to organisations that are strictly independent from any government and fully adhere to democratic values and fundamental rights;


### 19. condemns attempts by certain member states to impose limitations on foreign funding and the related political narratives they have promulgated and measures they have taken with the aim of stigmatising csos; ### 19. condemns attempts by certain member states to impose limitations on foreign funding and the related political narratives they have promulgated and measures they have taken with the aim of stigmatising csos; recalls that international standards on freedom of association require authorities to apply a presumption in favour of csos' liberty to seek and receive funding from any source and of the legality of their activities , with restrictions being possible only in cases of a serious threat to national security or public order , subject to the principles of necessity and proportionality; calls on the commission to conduct a mapping of foreign funding restrictions across the union with a view to ensure that the principles reaffirmed by the cjeu in case c-78/18 commission v hungary are effectively respected in all member states;


### 21. stresses the importance of civil dialogue in informed policy-making and emphasises that the privileged position of csos in contact with citizens , and their expertise , confers on them a key role in civil dialogue; ### 21. stresses the importance of civil dialogue in informed policy-making and emphasises that csos play a key role as intermediaries between citizens and authorities at all levels , by ensuring a structured dialogue , and empowering those furthest away to participate and voice their concerns , while exercising democratic control over and ensuring accountability for public action;


### 22. regrets that civil dialogue often remains an ad hoc process; calls on the member states to develop coherent policy frameworks that ensure structured , predictable and long-term processes , inclusive participation and systematic review; calls on the commission to provide recommendations based on the analysis of existing practices; ### 22. regrets that civil dialogue often remains an ad hoc process; calls on the member states to develop coherent policy frameworks that ensure structured , predictable and long-term processes , inclusive participation and systematic review; calls on the commission to provide recommendations prepared in close cooperation with civil society based on the analysis of existing practices;


### 23. welcomes the attribution to a commission vice-president of the responsibility to maintain an open , transparent and regular dialogue with civil society; stresses that civil dialogue should be further operationalised; ### 23. welcomes the attribution to a commission vice-president of the responsibility to maintain an open , transparent and regular dialogue with civil society; stresses that civil dialogue should be further operationalised; invites the commission to set up within each directorate general specific focal points for civil society to be in close contact with the vice-president and the coordination of the secretariat general; invites the commission to set up a participatory status with civil society;


### a. whereas the court of justice of the eu (ecj) in the “schrems i” judgment pointed out that indiscriminate access by intelligence authorities to the content of electronic communications violates the essence of the right to confidentiality of communications as provided in article 7 of the charter; ### a. whereas the court of justice of the eu (ecj) in the “schrems i” judgment found that indiscriminate access by intelligence authorities to the content of electronic communications violates the essence of the right to confidentiality of communications as provided in article 7 of the charter;


### b. whereas the court in the “schrems ii” judgment pointed out that the united states (us) do not provide sufficient legal remedies for non-us persons against the mass surveillance , and that this violates the essence of the right to a legal remedy as provided in article 47 of the charter; ### b. whereas the court in the “schrems ii” judgment found that the united states (us) do not provide sufficient legal remedies for non-us persons against the mass surveillance , and that this violates the essence of the right to a legal remedy as provided in article 47 of the charter;


### 1. takes note of the ecj ruling of 16 july 2020 , in which the court upheld the validity of decision 2010/87 on standard contractual clauses (sccs) deeming them an effective mechanism to ensure compliance with the level of protection provided in eu law; notes further that the court invalidated the commission decision 2016/1250 on the adequacy of the protection provided by the eu-us privacy shield; ### 1. takes note of the ecj ruling of 16 july 2020 , in which the court upheld , in principle , the validity of decision 2010/87 on standard contractual clauses (sccs) deeming them an effective mechanism to ensure compliance with the level of protection provided in eu law; notes further that the court invalidated the commission decision 2016/1250 on the adequacy of the protection provided by the eu-us privacy shield;


### 4. urges the commission to publish further guidance on international data transfers for companies , in particular for smes , including on the additional safeguards required for transfers using sccs; ### deleted


### 1. stresses the important role of the european border and coast guard agency (‘the agency’) , commonly referred to as frontex , in promoting , coordinating and developing european integrated border management in full respect of fundamental rights; ### 1. stresses the increasing role and budget of the european border and coast guard agency (‘the agency’) , commonly referred to as frontex , in promoting , coordinating and developing european integrated border management; notes in this regard with great concern the recent reports of allegations of harassment , misconduct and migrant pushbacks , that have led to the opening of an olaf investigation;


### 1. grants the executive director of the european border and coast guard agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the agency’s budget for the financial year 2019 / postpones its decision on granting the executive director of the european border and coast guard agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the agency for the financial year 2019; ### 1. postpones its decision on granting the executive director of the european border and coast guard agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the agency for the financial year 2019;


### 1. approves the closure of the accounts of the european border and coast guard agency for the financial year 2019 / postpones the closure of the accounts of the european border and coast guard agency for the financial year 2019; ### 1. postpones the closure of the accounts of the european border and coast guard agency for the financial year 2019;


### 1. grants/refuses to grant the executive director of the european border and coast guard agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the agency’s budget for the financial year 2019; ### 1. refuses to grant the executive director of the european border and coast guard agency discharge in respect of the implementation of the agency’s budget for the financial year 2019;


### 1. approves the closure of the accounts of the european border and coast guard agency for the financial year 2019 / points out that a proposal to close the accounts of the european border and coast guard agency for the financial year 2019 must be submitted at a subsequent part-session; ### 1. points out that a proposal to close the accounts of the european border and coast guard agency for the financial year 2019 must be submitted at a subsequent part-session;


### 2. welcomes the fact that the court of auditors (‘the court’) has declared the transactions underlying the annual accounts of the agency for the financial year 2019 to be legal and regular in all material respects and that its financial position on 31 december 2019 is fairly presented; ### 2. notes the fact that the court of auditors (‘the court’) has declared the transactions underlying the annual accounts of the agency for the financial year 2019 to be legal and regular in all material respects and that its financial position on 31 december 2019 is fairly presented;


### 2. notes from the court’s report that in 2019 the agency had financing agreements with cooperating countries for operational activities , representing 55 % of the agency’s budget; notes that the agency has taken steps to improve the ex ante verifications and has re-introduced ex post verifications on reimbursements in 2019; highlights the court’s emphasis that the reimbursement of equipment-related expenditure is still based on actual costs and that the project to move to unit-cost based reimbursements is still not completed; further notes from the court’s report that cooperating countries had not always presented cost claims supported by invoices , or by other evidence , duly substantiating the actual costs incurred in operations and that there were delays for providing supporting documents; at the same time , the court’s report stresses that the duty to submit accurate and timely supporting evidence together with the cost claims lies with the cooperating countries; notes from the agency’s reply that during ex post control the agency ascertained the questioned expenditure with bank statements and the beneficiary was notified that pro-forma invoices would no longer be accepted as supporting documents even if such invoices respected the applicable national regulatory framework; furthermore , delays in providing supporting documents were associated with the implementation of a simplified grant scheme for the deployment of officers , and the final payment procedure in 2019 was therefore much extended in order to ensure sound financial management; ### 2. notes from the court’s report that in 2019 the agency had financing agreements with cooperating countries for operational activities , representing 55 % of the agency’s budget; notes that the agency has taken steps to improve the ex ante verifications and has re-introduced ex post verifications on reimbursements in 2019; regrets that the court has once again highlighted recurrent emphasis of matter on the fact that the reimbursement of equipment-related expenditure is still based on actual costs and that the project to move to unit-cost based reimbursements is still not completed; further notes from the court’s report that cooperating countries had not always presented cost claims supported by invoices , or by other evidence , duly substantiating the actual costs incurred in operations and that there were delays for providing supporting documents; at the same time , the court’s report stresses that the duty to submit accurate and timely supporting evidence together with the cost claims lies with the cooperating countries; notes from the agency’s reply that during ex post control the agency ascertained the questioned expenditure with bank statements and the beneficiary was notified that pro-forma invoices would no longer be accepted as supporting documents even if such invoices respected the applicable national regulatory framework; furthermore , delays in providing supporting documents were associated with the implementation of a simplified grant scheme for the deployment of officers , and the final payment procedure in 2019 was therefore much extended in order to ensure sound financial management;


### 4. recalls the finding of the court of auditors (the ‘court’) regarding financing agreements that reimbursements were still based on actual costs instead of on unit costs , and the associated issues identified with supporting evidence; recalls that this issue was also identified in the discharge for 2018; notes from the agency’s follow-up report that the agency has piloted the unit cost approach for heavy equipment and an analysis was made on the use of unit costs for the deployment of human resources and light technical equipment; notes that the pilot projects for heavy equipment revealed that the unit cost approach would increase the total costs , as the financial consequences of unpredictable events such as weather conditions , repairs and days needed for transfer of the asset , that are now reimbursable on the basis of presented evidence , would need to be factored into the unit cost; calls on the court the examine the unit cost approach piloted by the agency and inform the discharge authority if this approach is indeed not suited for heavy equipment; ### 4. recalls the finding of the court of auditors (the ‘court’) regarding financing agreements that reimbursements were still based on actual costs instead of on unit costs , and the associated issues identified with supporting evidence; recalls that this issue was also identified in the discharge for 2018; notes from the agency’s follow-up report that the agency has piloted the unit cost approach for heavy equipment and an analysis was made on the use of unit costs for the deployment of human resources and light technical equipment; notes that the pilot projects for heavy equipment revealed that the unit cost approach would increase the total costs , as the financial consequences of unpredictable events such as weather conditions , repairs and days needed for transfer of the asset , that are now reimbursable on the basis of presented evidence , would need to be factored into the unit cost; calls on the court the examine the unit cost approach piloted by the agency and inform the discharge authority if this approach is indeed not suited for heavy equipment; calls again on the agency to cease all remaining reimbursements for any cost claims not supported by invoices;


### 13. recalls the establishment of the frontex scrutiny working group by parliament’s committee on civil liberties , justice and home affairs; notes that the frontex scrutiny working group published its report on the fact-finding investigation on frontex concerning alleged fundamental rights violations on 14 july 2021; notes that the frontex scrutiny working group found no proof of the agency’s involvement in alleged illegal pushbacks; ### 13. recalls the establishment of the frontex scrutiny working group (fswg) by parliament’s committee on civil liberties , justice and home affairs; notes that the fswg published its report on the fact-finding investigation on frontex “regarding alleged violations of fundamental rights in which the agency was involved , was aware of and/or did not act , internal management , procedures for reporting , and the handling of complaints”1a on 14 july 2021; notes that the fswg “did not find conclusive evidence on the direct performance of pushbacks and/or collective expulsions by frontex in the serious incident cases that could be examined by the fswg”2a; recalls that the fswg concluded that the agency had “evidence in support of allegations of fundamental rights violations in member states with which it had a joint operation , but failed to address and follow-up on these violations promptly , vigilantly and effectively” and that “as a result , frontex did not prevent these violations , nor reduced the risk of future fundamental rights violations”3a; notes that while conducting its investigations , the working group discovered that recommendations and advice provided by the former fundamental rights officer (fro) over a four-year period was ignored by the executive director4a , notably regarding frontex operations in hungary;


### 7. notes the court’s conclusion that although a functional information exchange framework is in place to support the fight against illegal immigration , it did not function well enough to provide accurate , complete and up-to-date situational awareness of the union’s external borders; notes that the agency dispatches timely and relevant migration information about the situation at the external borders and provides information about specific events; notes , however , some drawbacks as far as external border control is concerned , such as the lack of information , technical standards for border control equipment , a common catalogue for cross-border crime reporting , and near-real-time information about the situation at the union’s air borders , and delays in updating the common integrated risk analysis model; ### 7. notes the court’s conclusion that although a functional information exchange framework is in place to support the fight against illegal immigration , it did not function well enough to provide accurate , complete and up-to-date situational awareness of the union’s external borders; regrets that adequate information exchange framework has not yet been established for cross-border crime , affecting the capacity of the agency and member states to respond quickly to any threats detected; notes that the agency dispatches timely and relevant migration information about the situation at the external borders and provides information about specific events; notes , however , some drawbacks as far as external border control is concerned , such as the lack of information , technical standards for border control equipment , a common catalogue for cross-border crime reporting , and near-real-time information about the situation at the union’s air borders , and delays in updating the common integrated risk analysis model;


### 12. recalls the concerns of parliament on the meetings conducted in 2018 and 2019 by the agency with representatives of industries relevant for the agency’s work , with a majority of representatives not listed in the union transparency register; points to article 118 of regulation (eu) 2019/1896 that requires the agency to ensure transparency as regards lobbying by means of a transparency register and by disclosing all meetings with third-party stakeholders; notes the decision of the agency’s executive director on the transparency register of the agency of 5 may 2021; ### 12. recalls the great concerns of parliament on the meetings conducted in 2018 and 2019 by the agency with representatives of industries relevant for the agency’s work , with a majority of representatives not listed in the union transparency register; raises strong concerns regarding the fact that the executive director lied to the parliament when he stated that the agency had met exclusively with lobbyists listed in the eu transparency register 2019; highlights that a report by corporate europe observatory disclosed that in 2018 and 2019 , 72% (91 out of a total of 125) of all lobbyists that the agency met were not registered in the eu transparency register1a; points to article 118 of regulation (eu) 2019/1896 that requires the agency to ensure transparency as regards lobbying by means of a transparency register and by disclosing all meetings with third-party stakeholders; notes the decision of the agency’s executive director on the transparency register of the agency of 5 may 2021 but regrets the significant delay by the agency in adopting a transparency register;


### fundamental right monitors ### internal management , including fundamental right monitors


### 14. notes that the agency’s fundamental rights officer took office on 1 june 2021; notes the statements of the agency’s executive director that the recruitment of a first batch of 20 fundamental rights monitors is completed , with the fundamental rights monitors starting their training from 1 june 2021 , and that the appointment of a second batch of 20 fundamental rights monitors is ongoing; further notes the statement that of those 20 fundamental right monitors , five have been appointed at ad level and fifteen at ast level; reiterates that regulation (eu) 2019/1896 provides for the recruitment of at least 40 fundamental rights monitors and insists that the agency swiftly appoints the remaining 20 fundamental rights monitors; notes the agency’s statement that those remaining 20 fundamental rights monitors will be recruited from an established ad 7 reserve list , once additional ad7 posts have been allocated to the agency; ### 14. regrets the delay in appointing the agency’s fundamental rights officer , who took office only on 1 june 2021; notes the statements of the agency’s executive director that the recruitment of a first batch of 20 fundamental rights monitors is completed , with the fundamental rights monitors starting their training from 1 june 2021 , and that the appointment of a second batch of 20 fundamental rights monitors is ongoing; strongly disapproves the delay in recruiting the 40 fundamental rights monitors reminding the agency’s obligation under regulation (eu) 2019/1896 to recruit 40 fundamental right monitors by 5 december 2020; further notes the statement that of those 20 fundamental right monitors , five have been appointed at ad level and fifteen at ast level; recalls that the parliament highlighted in the fswg report that “this lower ranking may affect the monitor’s authority and autonomy , access to classified and sensitive information , and therefore their effectiveness”1a; recalls the former calls of the parliament and the commission that the 40 fundamental rights monitors should have been appointed at ad level; reiterates that regulation (eu) 2019/1896 provides for the recruitment of at least 40 fundamental rights monitors and insists that the agency swiftly appoints the remaining 20 fundamental rights monitors; recalls the call of the parliament’s fswg for “the immediate provision of a clear and short timeline for the employment and deployment of the remaining fundamental rights monitors at ad-level , complemented with supporting personnel at ast-level”1b; regrets the agency’s statement that those remaining 20 fundamental rights monitors will be recruited from an established ad 7 reserve list , once additional ad7 posts have been allocated to the agency since the commission had highlighted there were sufficient ad posts allocated to the agency;


### 1. reiterates that the application of the rule of law conditionality regulation cannot be subject to the adoption of guidelines , and urges the commission to avoid any further delay in its application; ### 1. regrets the european council conclusions of 10 and 11 december 2020 on the rule of law conditionality regulation and considers that they contravene articles 15 and 17 of the teu and article 288 of the tfeu insofar as they introduce unnecessary legal uncertainty and reiterates that the application of the rule of law conditionality regulation cannot be subject to the adoption of guidelines; urges the commission to avoid any further delay in its application;


### 1. takes note of the commission’s intention to develop guidelines for the application of the regulation; reiterates once again its view that the text of the regulation is clear and does not require any additional interpretation in order to be applied; ### 1. takes note of the commission’s intention to develop guidelines for the application of the regulation; reiterates once again its view that the text of the regulation cannot be subject to the adoption of guidelines and does not require any additional interpretation in order to be applied;


### final recipients and beneficiaries ### protection of final recipients and beneficiaries


### c. whereas several member states operate citizenship by investment (cbi) and residence by investment (rbi) schemes that confer citizenship or resident status upon third-country nationals in exchange for primarily financial considerations in the form of ‘passive’ capital investments; whereas cbi/rbi schemes are characterised by having minimal to no physical presence requirements and offering a ‘fast track’ to residency or citizenship status in a member state compared to conventional channels; whereas application processing times vary substantially between member states10 ; ### c. whereas several member states operate citizenship by investment (cbi) and residence by investment (rbi) schemes that confer citizenship or resident status upon third-country nationals in exchange for primarily financial considerations in the form of ‘passive’ capital investments; whereas such cbi/rbi schemes are characterised by having minimal to no physical presence requirements and offering a ‘fast track’ to residency or citizenship status in a member state compared to conventional channels; whereas application processing times vary substantially between member states10 ;


### d. whereas the existence of cbi/rbi schemes affects all member states; whereas the operation of a cbi/rbi scheme by an individual member state thus generates significant externalities on other member states; whereas those externalities warrant regulation by the union; ### d. whereas the existence of cbi/rbi schemes affects all member states because a decision by one member state to grant citizenship for investment automatically confers rights in relation to other member states , in particular free movement rights , the right to vote and stand as a candidate in local and european elections , the right to consular protection , if unrepresented outside the union , and rights of access to the internal market to exercise economic activities; whereas the operation of a cbi/rbi scheme by an individual member state thus generates significant externalities on other member states; whereas those externalities warrant regulation by the union;


### 10. deplores the lack of comprehensive security checks , vetting procedures and due diligence in member states that have cbi/rbi schemes in place; regrets that member states do not always consult the available union databases and do not exchange information on the outcome of such checks and procedures , allowing for successive applications across the union; ### 10. deplores the lack of comprehensive security checks , vetting procedures and due diligence in member states that have cbi/rbi schemes in place; regrets that member states do not always consult the available union databases and do not exchange information on the outcome of such checks and procedures , allowing for successive applications across the union; considers that member states' authorities must have in place adequate processes for vetting cbi/rbi applicants and must not rely on background checks and due diligence procedures carried out by non-state actors as granting residency and citizenship rights is the responsibility of the state;


### 16. notes that applications under cbi/rbi schemes are particularly difficult to monitor and assess where they concern joint applications that include different family members; notes that family reunification rights under council directive 2003/86/ec of 22 september 2003 on the right to family reunification18 apply after obtaining residency status in a member state , thus allowing family members to enter the union without further specific checks normally required under rbi schemes; ### 16. notes that applications under cbi/rbi schemes are particularly difficult to monitor and assess where they concern joint applications that include different family members; notes that under certain national rbi schemes residency rights may be granted based on family , personal or other ties to the main applicants; notes that family reunification rights under council directive 2003/86/ec of 22 september 2003 on the right to family reunification18 apply after obtaining residency status in a member state , thus allowing family members to enter the union without further specific checks normally required under rbi schemes;


### 17. notes that a risk stems from third countries that have cbi schemes and that benefit from visa-free travel to the union19 because third-country nationals can purchase citizenship of that third country with the sole purpose of being able to enter the union without any additional screening; stresses that risks are exacerbated for union candidate countries that have cbi/rbi schemes20 because the expected benefits of future union membership may be a factor; ### 17. notes that a risk stems from third countries that have cbi schemes and that benefit from visa-free travel to the union19 because third-country nationals can purchase citizenship of that third country with the sole purpose of being able to enter the union without any additional screening; stresses that risks are exacerbated for union candidate countries that have cbi/rbi schemes20 because the expected benefits of future union membership and visa-free travel within schengen may be a factor;


### 19. believes that , as cbi/rbi schemes constitute free riding and produce severe consequences for the union and the member states , a financial contribution to the union budget is warranted , also as a concrete expression of solidarity following from , inter alia , article 80 tfeu; requests , therefore , that the commission , in 2022 , on the basis of article 311 tfeu , submit a proposal for the establishment of a new category of the union’s own resources , consisting of a ‘cbi & rbi adjustment mechanism’ that would place a levy of 50 % on the investments made in member states as part of cbi/rbi schemes; ### 19. considers that the phasing out of cbi schemes will require a transition period and believes that , as cbi/rbi schemes constitute free riding and produce severe consequences for the union and the member states , a financial contribution to the union budget is warranted , for both schemes until all cbi schemes are completely phased out , as a concrete expression of solidarity following from , inter alia , article 80 tfeu; requests , therefore , that the commission , in 2022 , on the basis of article 311 tfeu , submit a proposal for the establishment of a new category of the union’s own resources , consisting of a ‘cbi & rbi adjustment mechanism’ that would place a levy of 50 % on the investments made in member states as part of cbi/rbi schemes;


### — a union-wide notification and quota system for the maximum number of citizenships to be acquired under cbi schemes across the member states should be established with the number to be gradually lowered each year , reaching zero in 2025 , thereby leading to the complete phasing out of cbi schemes. such a gradual phasing out will allow those member states maintaining cbi schemes to find alternative means to attract investment and sustain their public finances. such a phasing out is in line with the previous position of parliament expressed in several resolutions and is necessary in light of the profound challenge that cbi schemes pose to the principle of sincere cooperation under the treaties (article 4(3) teu). ### — a union-wide notification and quota system , strictly applicable only for the existing programmes , for the maximum number of citizenships to be acquired under cbi schemes across the member states should be established with the number to be gradually lowered each year , reaching zero in 2025 , thereby leading to the complete phasing out of cbi schemes. such a gradual phasing out will allow those member states maintaining cbi schemes to find alternative means to attract investment and sustain their public finances. such a phasing out is in line with the previous position of parliament expressed in several resolutions and is necessary in light of the profound challenge that cbi schemes pose to the principle of sincere cooperation under the treaties (article 4(3) teu).


### a union-level licensing procedure for intermediaries containing a thorough procedure with due diligence and auditing of the intermediary company , its owners and its related companies. the license should be subject to renewal every second year and be featured in a public union register for intermediaries. where intermediaries are involved in applications , member states should only be allowed to process such applications when prepared by union-licensed intermediaries. applications for licensing should be made to the commission , to be supported by the relevant union agencies , in particular the european border and coast guard agency (frontex) and the european union agency for law enforcement cooperation (europol) , in carrying out the checks and procedure. ### a union-level licensing procedure for intermediaries containing a thorough procedure with due diligence and auditing of the intermediary company , its owners and its related companies. the license should be subject to renewal every second year and be featured in a public union register for intermediaries. where intermediaries are involved in applications , member states should only be allowed to process such applications when prepared by union-licensed intermediaries. applications for licensing should be made to the commission , to be supported by the relevant union agencies in carrying out the checks and procedure.


### a union-wide ban on marketing practices for rbi schemes. that should include prohibiting intermediaries processing applications under rbi schemes from using the union flag on any materials , website or documents. ### a union-wide ban on marketing practices for rbi schemes. that should include prohibiting intermediaries processing applications under rbi schemes from using the union flag on any materials , website or documents and from associating the rbi to any benefits linked to the treaties and to the rights under the acquis.


### — a duty for member states to report to the commission regarding their rbi schemes should be introduced. the member states should submit a detailed annual report to the commission on the overall institutional and governance elements of their schemes. they should also report on individual applications and on rejections and approvals of applications. the commission should carry out , in cooperation with europol (including through its liaison officers in third countries) and frontex , union-level final checks of applications against the relevant union and international databases and should also carry out further security and background checks. on that basis , the commission should issue an opinion to the member state. the competence to grant residence or not under rbi schemes should remain with the member states. the union-level final check will also help to highlight several unsuccessful applications by the same individuals. ### — a duty for member states to report to the commission regarding their rbi schemes should be introduced. the member states should submit detailed annual reports to the commission on the overall institutional and governance elements of their schemes. these annual reports should be made publicly available with due respect for data protection regulations. they should also report on individual applications and on rejections and approvals of applications as well as on monitoring mechanisms while having clear monitoring periods. the commission should carry out , in cooperation with europol (including through its liaison officers in third countries) , union-level final checks of applications against the relevant union and international databases and should also carry out further security and background checks. on that basis , the commission should issue an opinion to the member state. the competence to grant residence or not under rbi schemes should remain with the member states. the union-level final check will also help to highlight several unsuccessful applications by the same individuals.


### — member states should be required to effectively check physical residence on their territory and to keep a record of it , which the commission and union agencies can consult. that should include at least biannual in-person reporting appointments and on-site visits to the domicile of the individuals concerned. ### — member states should be required to effectively check physical residence , preferably by establishing maximum periods of absence , on their territory and to keep a record of it , which the commission and union agencies can consult. that should include at least biannual in-person reporting appointments and on-site visits to the domicile of the individuals concerned.


### 2. deplores the fact that internal border controls are continuing to be introduced by some member states as a unilateral response to new challenges , before they have given proper consideration to the common european interest in maintaining schengen as an area without internal border controls; reiterates its call on the commission to exercise appropriate scrutiny over the application of the schengen acquis , including through the use of infringement procedures , and underlines the urgent need to enhance mutual trust and cooperation among the schengen states and appropriate governance for the schengen area; ### 2. deplores the fact that internal border controls are continuing to be introduced by member states as a unilateral response to new challenges , in the absence of any proof of their effectiveness and before they have given proper consideration to the common european interest in maintaining schengen as an area without internal border controls; reiterates its call on the commission to exercise appropriate scrutiny over the application of the schengen acquis , including through the use of infringement procedures , and underlines the urgent need to enhance mutual trust and cooperation among the schengen states and appropriate governance for the schengen area;


### — having regard to the international labour organization convention on violence and harassment (no. 190) and to the main provisions thereof , ### — having regard to the international labour organization convention on violence and harassment (no. 190) and the violence and harassment recommendation (206) and to the main provisions thereof ,


### b. whereas sexual harassment is a form of gender-based violence and an extreme form of gender-based discrimination which affects women and girls disproportionally; whereas harassment is often linked to other forms of discrimination in addition to gender-based discrimination and has to be addressed with an intersectional approach and from all its angles; ### b. whereas sexual harassment is any form of unwanted verbal , non-verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature with the purpose or effect of violating the dignity of a person , in particular when creating an intimidating , hostile , degrading , humiliating or offensive environment; whereas sexual harassment is a form of gender-based violence and an extreme form of gender-based discrimination which affects women and girls disproportionally , is often linked to other forms of discrimination and has to be addressed with an intersectional approach and from all its angles;


### e. whereas the progress made in addressing the issue of sexual harassment after the metoo movement is not sufficient and there is still a lot to be done within the european institutions and beyond; whereas the european institutions have started to adapt their internal rules and procedures in order to better identify , counter and sanction harassment; whereas the implementation of prevention mechanisms has given rise to a certain degree of reluctance resulting not only from ignorance of the phenomenon of harassment but also from the lack of clarity of the existing legal rules; ### e. whereas several member states have made progress in addressing the issue of sexual harassment after the metoo movement spread globally and in europe by adapting their legislation and policies; however emphasizes that sufficient changes have not been made and there is still a lot to be done to eliminate harassment in the eu;


### 3. strongly condemns all forms of harassment , especially sexual harassment; stresses that harassment experienced in a workplace constitutes a violation of human rights and can have serious consequences for survivors’ physical and psychological health , making them feel uncomfortable and insecure at work , and in some cases preventing them from doing their work; highlights the importance of addressing cyber violence in the workplace , as it has an enormous impact on the mental health of victims; ### 3. strongly condemns all forms of harassment , especially sexual harassment; stresses that harassment experienced in a workplace constitutes a violation of human rights and can have serious consequences for survivors’ physical and psychological health , making them feel uncomfortable and insecure at work , and in many cases preventing them from doing their work; highlights the importance of addressing cyber violence in the workplace , as it has an enormous impact on the mental health of victims;


### 4. is convinced that the european institutions should behave as exemplary employers and establish zero-tolerance standards; ### 4. is convinced that the european institutions should behave as exemplary employers , establishing zero-tolerance standards for harassment , working actively on prevention of harassment , adequate victim protection and holistic support , countering all forms of discrimination , applying strict implementation of its rules and enforcing effective , proportionate and dissuasive sanctions;


### 5. regrets the fact that , in spite of the progress initiated by the metoo campaign , which helped to break the silence and raise awareness of the need to implement better working conditions for all staff , cases of sexual harassment still occur in the european institutions , including parliament; recalls that these cases cast a shadow over the functioning of our institutions and undermine the confidence of eu citizens in them; ### 5. regrets the fact that , in spite of the progress initiated by the metoo campaign , which helped to break the silence and raise awareness of the need to implement better anti-harassment policies to protect workers in the european parliament , cases of sexual harassment still occur in the european parliament and victims are not sufficiently supported and protected; recalls that these cases cast a shadow over the functioning of our institutions and undermine the confidence of eu citizens in them;


### 6. recalls the importance of prevention , with information and awareness-raising efforts , and the promotion of zero-harassment campaigns and policies; considers that the existing campaigns should be reinforced; ### 6. recalls the importance of prevention , with information and awareness-raising efforts , and the promotion of zero-tolerance towards harassment campaigns and policies; considers that the existing campaigns should be regularly updated and reinforced;


### 7. notes that sexual harassment cases are still under-reported because victims do not use the existing channels , demonstrating the need for further efforts with regard to the prevention of sexual harassment; ### 7. notes that sexual harassment cases in the european parliament are still under-reported because victims do not use the existing channels , for reasons such as shame , fear of retaliation or a general distrust in the handling of harassment cases by the competent committees dealing with harassment complaints demonstrating the need for further efforts with regard to the prevention of sexual harassment; expresses its concern that reporting harassment in the eu institutions may have consequences on the career of the complainants; highlights also the lack of transparent and privacy proof data on the number of harassment cases in the institution;


### 8. recalls the duty of all of the european institutions to put in place all necessary policies to prevent and address all forms of harassment and violence , and urges them to ensure that all of the rules in place guarantee a zero-tolerance approach to any forms of misconduct and full support for all victims; calls on the european institutions to strengthen their internal rules and policies to ensure that in cases of harassment and violence , they should not only suspend the perpetrator , but also entirely remove their salary; ### 8. recalls the obligation of all of the european institutions to put in place all necessary policies to prevent and address all forms of harassment and violence , and urges them to ensure that all of the rules in place guarantee a zero-tolerance approach to any forms of misconduct and full support and protection for all victims;


### harassment in the european parliament ### harassment in the european institutions


### 9. insists that the measures to address sexual harassment are not strong enough and do not include all of the actions requested in previous resolutions; welcomes the fact that this parliamentary term is the first in which members have been required to sign a declaration confirming their commitment to complying with the code of appropriate behaviour; ### 9. welcomes the fact that this parliamentary term is the first in which members of the european parliament have been required to sign a declaration confirming their commitment to complying with the code of appropriate behaviour which has explicit paragraphs on harassment ; recalls nevertheless that the current measures to address sexual harassment are not strong enough and do not include all of the actions requested in previous resolutions; in that sense , calls on parliament’s administration and the bureau to implement them and to request the secretary general to present the progress made on the implementation to the femm committee;


### 10. welcomes the harassment prevention training offered to members , managers in parliament’s secretariat and staff; is convinced , however , that voluntary harassment prevention training has proven insufficient; calls for the introduction of mandatory training for all members; ### 10. welcomes the harassment prevention training offered to members , managers in parliament’s secretariat and staff; is convinced , however , that voluntary harassment prevention training has proven insufficient as only 260 out of 705 members have completed the training in this term; calls again for the introduction of mandatory training for all members and staff and for the assessment of potential consequences in the event of non-compliance with the training , such as limiting the recruitment of staff , denying access to the position of rapporteur or office-holder in the ep , or even financial sanctions , and adapt its rules accordingly; calls for a public list on the parliament’s website with members that have completed the training , and those who have not; emphasises as well the need for trainings to be frequently available in all eu languages;


### 11. welcomes the measures implemented under the ‘updated roadmap for the adaptation of preventive and early support measures to deal with conflict and harassment between members of the ep and apas , trainees and other staff’ adopted by the bureau on 12 march 2018 , and the gender action plan; calls for the improvement , on a regular basis , of awareness raising for all persons working on parliament’s premises about the zero-harassment policy , in order to provide them with the tools to recognise all forms of harassment and to report it; ### 11. welcomes the measures implemented under the ‘updated roadmap for the adaptation of preventive and early support measures to deal with conflict and harassment between members of the ep and apas , trainees and other staff’ adopted by the bureau on 12 march 2018 , and the gender action plan; calls for the improvement , on a regular basis , of awareness raising for all persons working on parliament’s premises about the zero-harassment policy , in order to provide them with the tools to recognise all forms of harassment and to report it; requests a monitoring mechanism for the implementation of this policy with the participation of the femm committee


### 12. notes the work of the advisory committee on harassment and its prevention at the workplace and the advisory committee dealing with harassment complaints concerning members of the european parliament; calls for full transparency about how parliament is addressing issues of harassment , while protecting the identity of those affected , and invites both committees to draft and publish their monitoring reports and risk assessments annually on the european parliament website; calls for an independent evaluation of the measures in place by external and auditors selected in a transparent procedure; ### 12. calls again for full transparency about how parliament is addressing issues of harassment , while protecting the identity of those affected , and invites both committees to draft and publish their monitoring reports and risk assessments annually on the european parliament website; calls for an independent evaluation of the measures in place by external and auditors selected in a transparent procedure; recommends , in line with its previous resolutions , that a task force of independent experts be set up with a mandate to examine the situation of sexual harassment and abuse in parliament , in order to carry out an evaluation of its existing advisory committee dealing with complaints between accredited parliamentary assistants and members of the european parliament concerning harassment and its prevention at the workplace and the staff advisory committee for parliament staff on harassment prevention , and propose adequate changes; highlights the need to pay particular attention to the situation of workers with the most precarious contracts and to online harassment considering the rise in telework;