### a central role in the implementation of the programme should be attributed to digital innovation hubs , which should stimulate the broad adoption of advanced digital technologies by industry , by public organisations and academia . a network of digital innovation hubs should ensure the widest geographical coverage across europe59 . a first set of digital innovation hubs will be selected based on member states’ proposals and then the network will be enlarged through an open and competitive process . the digital innovation hubs will serve as access points to latest digital capacities including high performance computing , artificial intelligence , cybersecurity , as well as other existing innovative technologies such as key enabling technologies , available also in fablabs or citylabs . they shall act as single - entry points in accessing tested and validated technologies and promote open innovation . they will also provide support in the area of advanced digital skills . the network of digital innovation hubs should also contribute to the participation of the outermost regions in the digital single market . _________________ 59 as indicated in the communication on digitising european industry 180 final ) ### a central role in the implementation of the programme should be attributed to digital innovation hubs , which should stimulate the broad adoption of advanced digital technologies by industry , by public organisations and academia . a network of digital innovation hubs should ensure the widest geographical coverage across europe59 . a first set of digital innovation hubs will be selected based on member states’ proposals and then the network will be enlarged through an open , transparent and competitive process . the digital innovation hubs will serve as access points to latest digital capacities including high performance computing , artificial intelligence , cybersecurity , as well as other existing innovative technologies such as key enabling technologies , available also in fablabs or citylabs . they shall act as single - entry points in accessing tested and validated technologies and promote open innovation . they will also provide support in the area of advanced digital skills . the network of digital innovation hubs should also contribute to the participation of multiple partners , as employers’ organizations representing smes , entrepreneurs and the self - employed and also public corporations of professionals acting as intermediaries in their relation with public administrations , as administrative managers , at european , national , regional and local level but also in a sectorial perspective . the network of digital innovation hubs should also contribute to the participation of the outermost regions in the digital single market . _________________ 59 as indicated in the communication on digitising european industry 180 final )


### assistance may cover in particular the provision of capacity building programmes in support of security and development , including training , mentoring and advice , as well as the provision of equipment , infrastructure improvements and provision of other services . ### assistance may cover in particular the following measures : support for civilian measures related to demobilisation , disarmament and reintegration , ad hoc tribunals , truth and reconciliation commissions and mechanisms ; support for socio - economic measures to address the impact of displaced population , including measures addressing the needs of host communities in a situation of critical situation or emerging conflict ; support of international , regional , state and non - governmental organisations , which undertake efforts in and promote confidence building , mediation , reconciliation and dialogue ; support for measures to address the impact on the civilian population of anti - personnel landmines , unexploded ordnance or explosive remnants of war and violent conflicts ; support measures to combat the trade of small arms and light weapons in particular in to conflict regions , including within the un framework and in close cooperation with civil society ; support for socio - economic measures to promote ownership , equitable and fair access to , and transparent management of natural resources ; support measures to help to develop and organise civil society ' s participation in the political process , in particular measures to promote the participation of women .


### where a product originating in ukraine is imported on terms which cause , or threaten to cause , serious difficulties to a community producer of like or directly competing products , common customs tariff duties on such product may be reintroduced at any time by the council acting by qualified majority on a proposal from the commission . ### the commission shall inform the european parliament and the council about trends in imports from ukraine of the goods and products listed in annexes i , ii and iii and their impact on the european union market and producers in the european union . to this end , it shall at the beginning of the year analyse data for the previous year and forward its analysis to the european parliament and the council . as part of this analysis , it shall also asses the dangers of a possible destabilisation of the market due to imports of the goods and products listed on terms which cause , or threaten to cause , serious difficulties to a community producer of like or directly competing products . for this purpose , the commission shall take into account all individual aspects on which data have been gathered during the year , particularly the quantities produced in the european union , the quantities imported , prices of sale on the european union market , the prices customary abroad and relevant information on community producers , such as market share , production , stocks , production capacities , capacity utilisation rates and prices . the commission shall also estimate the consequences for producers in the union with reference to changes in the number of people they employ and their incomes .


### article 2 of the association agreement provides that the respect for democratic principles , human rights and fundamental freedoms and respect for the principle of the rule of law , constitute essential elements of that agreement . it is appropriate to introduce the possibility to temporarily suspend the preferences in case of failure to respect the fundamental principles of human rights , democracy and the rule of law by ukraine . ### articles 2 and 3 of the association agreement provide that respect for democratic principles , human rights , and fundamental freedoms and the principle of the rule of law , as well as efforts to combat corruption and international organised crime , and measures to promote sustainable development and effective multilateralism , constitute essential elements of relations with ukraine , which are governed by the agreement . it is appropriate to introduce the possibility to temporarily suspend the preferences in case of failure by ukraine to respect the general principles of the association agreement .


### 70% of the eligible public expenditure in the less developed regions ; ### 85% for the less developed regions ;


### since the cap needs to sharpen its responses to the challenges and opportunities as they manifest themselves at union , international , national , regional , local and farm levels , it is necessary to streamline the governance of the cap and improve its delivery on the union objectives and to significantly decrease the administrative burden . in the cap based on delivery of performance , the union should set the basic policy parameters , such as objectives of the cap and basic requirements , while member states should bear greater responsibility as to how they meet the objectives and achieve targets . enhanced subsidiarity makes it possible to better take into account local conditions and needs , tailoring the support to maximise the contribution to union objectives . ### since the cap needs to sharpen its responses to growing challenges and opportunities as they manifest themselves at union , international , national , regional , rural , local and farm levels , it is necessary to improve the governance of the cap and improve its delivery on the union objectives and to significantly decrease the administrative burden . in the cap based on delivery of performance , the union should set common policy parameters to respond to the identified challenges , such as objectives of the cap including rural development , while member states should bear greater responsibility as to how they meet the objectives and achieve common eu and national targets . enhanced subsidiarity makes it possible to better take into account local conditions and needs , tailoring the support to maximise the contribution to union objectives .


### the cap strategic plans shall establish a single eafrd contribution rate applicable to all interventions . ### the cap strategic plans shall establish&#160 ; the eafrd contribution to support interventions in all regions corresponding to level 2 of the common classification of territorial units for statistics established by regulation no 1059 / 2003 as amended by commission regulation no 2016 / 2066 .


### bolstering environmental care and climate action and contributing to the achievement of union environmental - and climate - related objectives is a very high priority in the future of union agriculture and forestry . the architecture of the cap should therefore reflect greater ambition with respect to these objectives . by virtue of the delivery model , action taken to tackle environmental degradation and climate change should be result - driven and article 11 tfeu should , for this purpose , be considered as an obligation of result . as many rural areas in the union suffer from structural problems such as lack of attractive employment opportunities , skill shortages , underinvestment in connectivity , infrastructures and essential services , as well as youth drain , it is fundamental to strengthen the socio - economic fabric in those areas , in line with the cork 2 . 0 . declaration , particularly through job creation and generational renewal , by bringing the commission ' s jobs and growth to rural areas , promoting social inclusion , generational renewal and the development of ‘ smart villages’ across the european countryside . as indicated in the communication on ‘ the future of food and farming’ , new rural value chains such as renewable energy , the emerging bio - economy , the circular economy , and ecotourism can offer good growth and job potential for rural areas . in this context , financial instruments and the use of the investeu guarantee can play a crucial role for ensuring access to financing and for bolstering the growth capacity of farms and enterprises . there is a potential for employment opportunities in rural areas for legally staying third country nationals , promoting their social and economic integration especially in the framework of community - led local development strategies . ### bolstering environmental care , preservation of biodiversity and genetic diversity in the agricultural system as well as climate action and contributing to the achievement of union environmental - and climate - related objectives is a very high priority in the future of union agriculture , forestry and rural development . the architecture of the cap should therefore reflect high ambition with respect to these objectives . by virtue of the delivery model , action taken to avoid further environmental degradation and climate change caused by unsustainable farming systems should be result - driven and article 11 tfeu should , for this purpose , be considered as an obligation of result . as many rural areas in the union suffer from structural problems and disadvantages such as lack of access to markets and decreasing return of added value to rural regions , lack of attractive employment opportunities , education , training and extension services responding to the challenges mentioned above , underinvestment in connectivity , infrastructures and essential services , as well as youth drain , it is fundamental to strengthen the socio - economic fabric in those areas , in line with the cork 2 . 0 . declaration , promoting social inclusion , generational renewal and the development of resilient villages and enterprises across the european countryside . as indicated in the communication on ‘ the future of food and farming’ , new rural value chains such as renewable energy , agro - ecological food systems , decentralized infrastructure for processing and marketing of farm products , the circular economy , and ecotourism can offer inclusive economical development and job potential for rural areas . in this context , financial instruments can play a crucial role for ensuring access to financing and for bolstering the growth capacity of farms and rural enterprises . there is a potential for employment opportunities in rural areas , including also legally staying third country nationals , promoting their social and economic integration especially in the framework of the leader and community - led local development strategies .


### reflecting the importance of tackling climate change in line with the union ' s commitments to implement the paris agreement and the united nations sustainable development goals , this program will contribute to mainstream climate action in the union ' s policies and to the achievement of an overall target of 25% of the eu budget expenditures supporting climate objectives . actions under the cap are expected to contribute 40 % of the overall financial envelope of the cap to climate objectives . relevant actions will be identified during the program ' s preparation and implementation , and reassessed in the context of the relevant evaluations and review processes . ### reflecting the particular urgency of tackling climate change in line with the union ' s commitments to implement the paris agreement and the united nations sustainable development goals , this program will contribute to mainstream climate action in the union ' s policies , to reaching the reduction of co2 emissions by 45 percent until 2030 compared to 2010 and zero emissions by 2050 and to this end to the achievement of an overall target of 30 % of the eu budget expenditures supporting climate objectives . actions under the cap are expected to contribute 40 % of the overall financial envelope of the cap to climate objectives . relevant actions will be identified during the program ' s preparation and implementation , and reassessed in the context of the relevant evaluations and review processes .


### promote employment , growth , social inclusion and local development in rural areas , including bio - economy and sustainable forestry ; ### promote decent employment , diversification of activities and stabilisation of income , social inclusion and the fight against poverty and local development in rural areas , including bio - economy and sustainable forestry ;


### to foster a smart , resilient and diversified agricultural sector ensuring food security ; ### to foster an inclusive , resilient and diversified agricultural sector ensuring sustainable , decentralised , long term food security and food safety , avoiding overproduction ;


### 43% of the eligible public expenditure in the other regions . ### 50% for the more developed regions .


### 70% of the eligible public expenditure in the outermost regions and in the smaller aegean islands within the meaning of regulation no 229 / 2013 ; ### 85% of the eligible public expenditure in the outermost regions and in the smaller aegean islands within the meaning of regulation no 229 / 2013 ;


### since the cap needs to sharpen its responses to the challenges and opportunities as they manifest themselves at union , international , national , regional , local and farm levels , it is necessary to streamline the governance of the cap and improve its delivery on the union objectives and to significantly decrease the administrative burden . in the cap based on delivery of performance , the union should set the basic policy parameters , such as objectives of the cap and basic requirements , while member states should bear greater responsibility as to how they meet the objectives and achieve targets . enhanced subsidiarity makes it possible to better take into account local conditions and needs , tailoring the support to maximise the contribution to union objectives . ### since the cap needs to sharpen its responses to growing challenges such as rising regional and social disparities and climate change and to reap opportunities at union , international , national , regional , local and farm levels , it is necessary to improve the governance of the cap and its delivery on the union objectives , in particular social , economic and territorial cohesion , the fight against poverty and hunger , climate protection , preservation of biodiversity and food safety while decreasing the administrative burden . in the cap based on delivery of performance , the union should set common policy parameters , such as objectives of the cap and basic requirements , while member states should bear greater responsibility as to how they meet common objectives and achieve targets . enhanced subsidiarity makes it possible to better take into account local conditions and needs , tailoring the support to maximise the contribution to union objectives .


### chapter iii of title ii , chapter ii of title iii and articles 41 and 43 of regulation [ cpr ] of the european parliament and of the council26 shall apply to support financed by the eafrd under this regulation . __________________ 26 regulation [ … / … ] of the european parliament and of the council of [ date ] [ full tittle ] . ### chapter ii of title iii , articles 41 , 43 and 60 of regulation [ cpr ] of the european parliament and of the council26 shall apply to support financed by the eafrd under this regulation . __________________ 26 regulation [ … / … ] of the european parliament and of the council of [ date ] [ full tittle ] .


### in the light of the need to fill the investment gap in the union agricultural sector and improve access to financial instruments for priority groups , notably young farmers and new entrants with higher risk profiles , use of the investeu guarantee and combination of grants and financial instruments should be encouraged . since the use of financial instruments across member states varies considerably as a result of differences in terms of access to finance , banking sector development , presence of risk capital , familiarity of public administrations and potential range of beneficiaries , member states should establish in the cap strategic plan appropriate targets , beneficiaries and preferential conditions , and other possible eligibility rules . ### in the light of the need to fill the investment gap in the union agricultural sector and improve access to financial instruments for priority groups , notably young farmers and new entrants with higher risk profiles , complementarity of grants and financial instruments should be enhanced . since the use of financial instruments across member states varies considerably as a result of differences in terms of access to finance , banking sector development , presence of risk capital , familiarity of public administrations and potential range of beneficiaries , member states should establish in the cap strategic plan appropriate targets , beneficiaries and preferential conditions , and other possible eligibility rules .


### to bolster environmental care and climate action and to contribute to the environmental - and climate - related objectives of the union ; ### to bolster environmental care , biodiversity and climate action and to contribute to the environmental - and climate - related objectives of the union ;


### enhance market orientation and increase competitiveness , including greater focus on research , technology and digitalisation ; ### enhance orientation at balanced social , environmental , territorial and economic regional development in the eu internal market , including greater focus on research , especially into agro - ecology , and on disseminating sustainable forms of production ;


### the country or countries in which the work abroad is to be performed and its duration ; ### the exact place of work in the country or countries in which the work abroad is to be performed and its duration , as well arrangements for the possible lengthening or shortening of the period of work ;


### member states shall ensure that any change in the aspects of the employment relationship referred to in article 3 and to the additional information for workers posted or sent abroad in article 6 shall be provided in the form of a document by the employer to the worker at the earliest opportunity and at the latest on the day it takes effect . ### member states shall ensure that any change in the aspects of the employment relationship referred to in article 3 and to the additional information for workers posted or sent abroad in article 6 shall be handed in the form of a paper document by the employer to the worker at the earliest opportunity and at the latest on the day it takes effect . at the request of the worker , the document must be provided and transmitted electronically with acknowledgement of receipt .


### member states shall lay down the rules on penalties applicable to infringements of the national provisions adopted pursuant to this directive or the relevant provisions already in force concerning the rights which are within the scope of this directive . member states shall take all measures necessary to ensure that those penalties are applied . penalties shall be effective , proportionate and dissuasive . they may take the form of a fine . they may also comprise payment of compensation . ### member states shall lay down the rules on penalties applicable to infringements of the national provisions adopted pursuant to this directive or the relevant provisions already in force concerning the rights which are within the scope of this directive . member states shall take all measures necessary to ensure that those penalties are applied . penalties shall be effective , proportionate and dissuasive . they shall also take the form of a fine and comprise appropriate payment of compensation .


### the rights and obligations set out in this directive shall apply to existing employment relationships as from [ entry into force date + 2 years ] . however , employers shall provide or complement the documents referred to in article 4 , article 5 and article 6 only upon request of a worker . the absence of such request shall not have the effect of excluding workers from the minimum rights established under this directive . ### the rights and obligations set out in this directive shall apply to existing employment relationships as from [ entry into force date + 2 years ] .


### member states shall ensure that , where an employment relationship is subject to a probationary period , that period shall not exceed six months , including any extension . ### member states shall ensure that , where an employment relationship is subject to a probationary period , that period shall not exceed three months .


### ' worker ' means a natural person who for a certain period of time performs services for and under the direction of another person in return for remuneration ; ### ' worker ' means a natural person who performs services for and under the direction of another person in return for remuneration ;


### in order to ensure effectiveness of the rights provided by the union law , the personal scope of directive 91 / 533 / eec should be updated . in its case law , the court of justice of the european union has established criteria for determining the status of a worker34 which are appropriate for determining the personal scope of application of this directive . the definition of worker in article 2 is based on these criteria . they ensure a uniform implementation of the personal scope of the directive while leaving it to national authorities and courts to apply it to specific situations . provided that they fulfil those criteria , domestic workers , on - demand workers , intermittent workers , voucher based - workers , platform workers , trainees and apprentices could come within scope of this directive . __________________ 34 judgments of 3 july 1986 , deborah lawrie - blum , case 66 / 85 ; 14 october 2010 , union syndicale solidaires isère , case c - 428 / 09 ; 9 july 2015 , balkaya , case c - 229 / 14 ; 4 december 2014 , fnv kunsten , case c - 413 / 13 ; and 17 november 2016 , ruhrlandklinik , case c - 216 / 15 . ### in order to ensure effectiveness of the rights provided by the union law , the personal scope of directive 91 / 533 / eec should be updated . in its case law , the court of justice of the european union has established criteria for determining the status of a worker34 which are appropriate for determining the personal scope of application of this directive . the definition of worker in article 2 is based on these criteria . they ensure a uniform implementation of the personal scope of the directive while leaving it to national authorities and courts to apply it to specific situations . provided that they fulfil those criteria , domestic workers , on - demand workers , intermittent workers , voucher based - workers , platform workers , trainees and apprentices must come within scope of this directive . __________________ 34 judgments of 3 july 1986 , deborah lawrie - blum , case 66 / 85 ; 14 october 2010 , union syndicale solidaires isère , case c - 428 / 09 ; 9 july 2015 , balkaya , case c - 229 / 14 ; 4 december 2014 , fnv kunsten , case c - 413 / 13 ; and 17 november 2016 , ruhrlandklinik , case c - 216 / 15 .


### any collective agreements governing the worker ' s conditions of work ; in the case of collective agreements concluded outside the business by special joint bodies or institutions , the name of the competent body or joint institution within which the agreements were concluded ; ### any collective agreements governing the worker ' s conditions of work as well as time limits laid down in the collective agreements for claims arising from those agreements ; in the case of collective agreements concluded outside the business by special joint bodies or institutions , the name of the competent body or joint institution within which the agreements were concluded ;


### the information referred to in article 3 shall be provided individually to the worker in the form of a document at the latest on the first day of the employment relationship . that document may be provided and transmitted electronically as long as it is easily accessible by the worker and can be stored and printed . ### the information referred to in article 3 shall be provided individually to the worker in the form of a paper document at the latest on the first day of the employment relationship . at the request of the worker that document shall be provided and transmitted electronically with acknowledgments of receipt . this information shall represent a notice of the agreed employment conditions by the employer . the deadline for presenting a written declaration of acceptance of the agreed working conditions shall be at least one week before the start of employment .


### member states may allow social partners to conclude collective agreements , in conformity with the national law or practice , which , while respecting the overall protection of workers , establish arrangements concerning the working conditions of workers which differ from those referred to in articles 7 to 11 . ### member states may allow social partners to conclude collective agreements , in conformity with the national law or practice , which , while respecting the overall protection of workers and ensuring that the minimum standards set out in this directive are not undercut , establish arrangements concerning the working conditions of workers which differ from those referred to in articles 7 to 11 .


### probationary periods allow employers to verify that workers are suitable for the position for which they have been engaged while providing them with accompanying support and training . such periods may be accompanied by reduced protection against dismissal . any entry into the labour market or transition to a new position should not be subject to prolonged insecurity . as established in the european pillar of social rights , probationary periods should therefore be of reasonable duration . a substantial number of member states have established a general maximum duration of probation between three and six months , which should be considered reasonable . probationary periods may be longer than six months where this is justified by the nature of the employment such as for managerial positions and where this is in the interest of the worker , such as in the case of long illness or in the context of specific measures promoting permanent employment notably for young workers . ### probationary periods allow employers to verify that workers are suitable for the position for which they have been engaged while providing them with accompanying support and training . any entry into the labour market or transition to a new position should not be subject to prolonged insecurity . as established in the european pillar of social rights , probationary periods should therefore be of reasonable duration . a substantial number of member states have established a general maximum duration of probation between three and six months , which should be considered reasonable and should not be extended under any circumstance . probationary periods may be longer than three months only where this is in the interest of the worker , such as in the case of long illness or in the context of specific measures promoting permanent employment notably for young workers .


### the information referred to in paragraph 1 shall include : ### the information referred to in paragraph 1 shall include at least :


### the worker shall benefit from favourable presumptions defined by the member state . where the information provided did not include the information referred to in points , , or of article 3 , the favourable presumptions shall include a presumption that the worker has an open - ended employment relationship , that there is no probationary period or that the worker has a full - time position , respectively . employers shall have the possibility to rebut the presumptions ; or ### the worker shall benefit from favourable presumptions , which the member state has the obligation to define . where the information provided did not include the information referred to in points , , or of article 3 , the favourable presumptions reported by the worker shall apply as agreed and shall include a presumption that the worker has an open - ended employment relationship , that there is no probationary period and that the worker has a full - time position , respectively . employers shall have the possibility to rebut the presumptions ; and


### member states shall ensure that where employers are required by union or national legislation or relevant collective agreements to provide training to workers to carry out the work for which they are employed , such training shall be provided cost - free to the worker . ### member states shall ensure that where employers are required by union or national legislation or relevant collective agreements to provide training or education to workers to carry out the work for which they are employed , such training or education shall be provided cost - free to the worker .


### this directive shall not constitute valid grounds for reducing the general level of protection already afforded to workers within member states . ### this directive shall not constitute valid grounds for reducing the general level of protection already afforded to workers within member states . the implementation of this directive must not be grounds of any regression to the situation which already prevails in each member state regarding the general level of worker protection and in the areas to which it applies .


### member states shall take the necessary measures to prohibit the dismissal or its equivalent and all preparations for dismissal of workers , on the grounds that they exercised the rights provided for in this directive . ### member states shall take the necessary measures to prohibit , and declare as legally ineffective , the dismissal or its equivalent and all preparations for dismissal of workers , on the grounds that they exercised the rights provided for in this directive . the employer shall provide sufficient information on the grounds for dismissal , otherwise the dismissal shall be deemed to be legally ineffective .


### chapter ii of this directive applies to seafarers and fishermen without prejudice to council directive 2009 / 13 / ec and council directive 2017 / 159 , respectively . ### chapter ii of this directive applies to seafarers and fishermen , taking into account the specific conditions of the sector , without prejudice to council directive 2009 / 13 / ec and council directive 2017 / 159 or any relevant union provisions being more specific and granting a higher level of protection to seafarers and fishermen .


### the worker shall have the possibility to submit a complaint to a competent authority in a timely manner . if the competent authority finds that the complaint is justified , it shall order the relevant employer to provide the missing information . if the employer does not provide the missing information within 15 days following receipt of the order , the authority shall be able to impose an appropriate administrative penalty , even if the employment relationship has ended . employers shall have the possibility to lodge an administrative appeal against the decision imposing the penalty . member states may designate existing bodies as competent authorities . ### the worker shall have the possibility to submit a complaint to a competent authority in a timely manner . if the competent authority finds that the complaint is justified , it shall order the relevant employer to provide the missing information . if the employer does not provide the missing information within 15 days following receipt of the order , the authority shall be able to impose an appropriate , automatic and dissuasive penalty , even if the employment relationship has ended . employers shall have the possibility to lodge an appeal against the decision imposing the penalty . member states may designate existing bodies as competent authorities .


### the employer shall provide a written reply within one month of the request . with respect to natural persons acting as employers and micro , small , or medium enterprises , member states may provide for that deadline to be extended to no more than three months and allow for an oral reply to a subsequent similar request submitted by the same worker if the justification for the reply as regards the situation of the worker remains unchanged . ### the employer shall provide a written reply within one month of the application . with respect to natural persons acting as employers and micro , small , or medium enterprises , member states may provide for that deadline to be extended to no more than one month . in the absence of a reply the application is deemed to have been approved . if the application is rejected , the correctness of the grounds must be amenable to review .


### member states may determine which persons are responsible for the execution of the obligations for employers laid down by this directive as long as all those obligations are fulfilled . they may also decide that all or part of these obligations shall be assigned to a natural or legal person who is not party to the employment relationship . this paragraph is without prejudice to directive 2008 / 104 / ec . ### member states may determine which persons are responsible for the execution of the obligations for employers laid down by this directive as long as all those obligations are fulfilled . they may also decide that all or part of these obligations shall be assigned to a natural or legal person who is not party to the employment relationship . employers shall continue to be responsible for ensuring that the obligations laid down are met correctly and in full . this paragraph is without prejudice to directive 2008 / 104 / ec .


### member states may provide for longer probationary periods in cases where this is justified by the nature of the employment or is in the interest of the worker . ### member states may provide for longer probationary periods only in cases where this is sufficiently justified by the nature of the employment or is in the interest of the worker .


### pursuant to directive 91 / 533 / eec the majority of workers in the union have the right to receive written information about their working conditions . directive 91 / 533 / eec does not however cover all workers in the union . moreover , gaps in protection have emerged for new forms of employment created as a result of labour market developments since 1991 . ### pursuant to directive 91 / 533 / eec the majority of workers in the union have the right to receive written information about their working conditions . directive 91 / 533 / eec does not however cover all workers in the union . moreover , gaps in protection have emerged for new forms of employment created as a result of economic , social and labour market developments since 1991 .


### the charter of fundamental rights of the european union provides in its article 31 that every worker has the right to working conditions which respect his or her health , safety and dignity , and to limitation of maximum working hours , to daily and weekly rest periods and to an annual period of paid leave . ### the charter of fundamental rights of the european union provides in its article 31 that every worker has the right to working conditions which respect his or her health , safety and dignity , and to limitation of maximum working hours , to daily and weekly rest periods and to an annual period of paid leave . the objectives of this directive should be fully in line with the charter of fundamental rights of the european union and the european charter of social rights ;


### a reasonable minimum advance notice , understood as the period of time between the moment a worker is informed about a new work assignment and the moment the assignment starts , constitutes another necessary element of predictability of work for employment relationships with work schedule which are variable or mostly determined by the employer . the length of the advance notice period may vary according to the needs of sectors , while ensuring adequate protection of workers . it applies without prejudice to directive 2002 / 15 / ec of the european parliament and of the council . 40 __________________ 40 directive 2002 / 15 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 11 march 2002 on the organisation of the working time of persons performing mobile road transport activities . ### a reasonable minimum advance notice of fifteen days , understood as the period of time between the moment a worker is informed about a new work assignment and the moment the assignment starts , constitutes another necessary element of predictability of work for employment relationships with work schedule which are variable or mostly determined by the employer . the length of the advance notice period may be longer according to the needs of sectors , while ensuring adequate protection of workers . it applies without prejudice to directive 2002 / 15 / ec of the european parliament and of the council . 40 __________________ 40 directive 2002 / 15 / ec of the european parliament and of the council of 11 march 2002 on the organisation of the working time of persons performing mobile road transport activities .


### the information referred to in paragraph 1 and 2 may , where appropriate , be given in the form of a reference to the laws , regulations and administrative or statutory provisions or collective agreements governing those particular points . ### the information referred to in paragraph 1 and 2 shall be clearly given in the form of a reference to the laws , regulations and administrative or statutory provisions or collective agreements governing those particular points and made available in a language that the posted workers are able to understand .


### the consultation on the european pillar of social rights showed the need to strengthen enforcement of union labour law to ensure its effectiveness . as regards directive 91 / 533 / eec , the refit evaluation41 confirmed that strengthened enforcement mechanisms could improve its effectiveness . it showed that redress systems based solely on claims for damages are less effective than systems that also provide for sanctions for employers who fail to issue written statements . it also showed that employees rarely seek redress during the employment relationship , which jeopardises the goal of the provision of the written statement to ensure workers are informed about their essential features of their employment relationship . it is therefore necessary to introduce enforcement provisions which ensure the use either of favourable presumptions where information about the employment relationship is not provided , or of an administrative procedure under which the employer may be required to provide the missing information and subject to sanction if it does not . that redress should be subject to a procedure by which the employer is notified that information is missing and has 15 days in which to supply complete and correct information . __________________ 41 swd205 final , page 26 . ### the consultation on the european pillar of social rights showed the need to strengthen enforcement of union labour law to ensure its effectiveness . as regards directive 91 / 533 / eec , the refit evaluation41confirmed that strengthened enforcement mechanisms could improve its effectiveness . it showed that redress systems based solely on claims for damages are less effective than systems that also provide for sanctions for employers who fail to issue written statements . it also showed that employees rarely seek redress during the employment relationship , which jeopardises the goal of the provision of the written statement to ensure workers are informed about their essential features of their employment relationship . it is therefore necessary to introduce enforcement provisions which ensure the use either of favourable presumptions where information about the employment relationship is not provided , and of an administrative procedure under which the employer may be required to provide the missing information and subject to sanction if it does not . __________________ 41 swd205 final , page 26 .


### ' employer ' means one or more natural or legal person who is or are directly or indirectly party to an employment relationship with a worker ; ### ' employer ' means one or more natural or legal person who employ the services of one or more workers and is or are directly or indirectly party to an employment relationship with her / him or them ;


### employers may however lay down conditions of incompatibility where such restrictions are justified by legitimate reasons such as the protection of business secrets or the avoidance of conflicts of interests . ### member states may however lay down conditions of incompatibility where such restrictions are justified by legitimate reasons such as the protection of business secrets or the avoidance of conflicts of interests . employers are not permitted to lay down conditions of incompatibility unilaterally .


### these rights and values must continue to be promoted and enforced , shared among the citizens and peoples within the union and be at the heart of europe’s societies , therefore , a new justice , rights and values fund , comprising the rights and values and the justice programmes shall be created in the union budget . at a time where european societies are confronted with extremism , radicalism and divisions , it is more important than ever to promote , strengthen and defend justice , rights and eu values : human rights , respect for human dignity , freedom , democracy , equality , the rule of law . this will have profound and direct implications for political , social , cultural and economic life in the eu . as a part of the new fund , the rights and values programme will bring together the 2014 - 2020 rights , equality and citizenship programme established by regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council10 and the europe for citizens programme established by regulation no 390 / 2014 of the council11 . the justice programme will continue to support the development of an integrated european justice area and cross - border cooperation , in continuity with the 2014 - 2020 justice programme established by regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council12 . _________________ 10 regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 17 december 2013 establishing a rights , equality and citizenship programme for the period 2014 to 2020 11 council regulation no 390 / 2014 of 14 april 2014 establishing the ‘ europe for citizens’ programme for the period 2014 - 2020 12 regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 17 december 2013 establishing a rights , equality and citizenship programme for the period 2014 to 2020 . ### these rights and values must continue to be promoted and enforced , shared among the citizens and peoples within the union and be at the heart of europe’s societies , therefore , a new justice , rights and values fund , comprising the rights and values and the justice programmes shall be created in the union budget . at a time where european societies are confronted with extremism , radicalism and divisions , it is more important than ever to promote , strengthen and defend justice , rights and eu values : human and fundamental rights , respect for human dignity , freedom , democracy , equality , the rule of law , social peace and stability . this will have profound and direct implications for political , social , cultural and economic life in the eu . as a part of the new fund , the rights and values programme will bring together the 2014 - 2020 rights , equality and citizenship programme established by regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council10 and the europe for citizens programme established by regulation no 390 / 2014 of the council11 . the justice programme will continue to support the development of an integrated european justice area and cross - border cooperation , in continuity with the 2014 - 2020 justice programme established by regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council12 . _________________ 10 regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 17 december 2013 establishing a rights , equality and citizenship programme for the period 2014 to 2020 11 council regulation no 390 / 2014 of 14 april 2014 establishing the ‘ europe for citizens’ programme for the period 2014 - 2020 12 regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 17 december 2013 establishing a rights , equality and citizenship programme for the period 2014 to 2020 .


### actions contributing to the achievement of a specific objective specified in article 3 may receive funding under this regulation . in particular , activities listed in annex i shall be eligible for funding . ### actions contributing to the achievement of a specific objective specified in article 3 may receive funding under this regulation . in particular , the following activities shall be eligible for funding : 1 . awareness raising , dissemination of information to improve the knowledge of union policies and of union law including substantive and procedural law , of judicial cooperation instruments , of the relevant case - law of the court of justice of the european union , and of comparative law and of european and international standards ; 2 . mutual learning through exchange of good practices among stakeholders to improve knowledge and mutual understanding of the civil and criminal law and the legal and judicial systems of the member states , including the rule of law , and enhancing mutual trust ; 3 . analytical and monitoring activities1a to improve the knowledge and understanding of potential obstacles to the smooth functioning of a european area of justice and to improve the implementation of union law and policies in the member states ; 4 . training relevant stakeholders to improve the knowledge of union policies and union law including inter alia substantive and procedural law , the use of eu judicial cooperation instruments , the relevant case - law of the court of justice of the european union , legal language and of comparative law ; 5 . information and communication technology as well as e - justice tools development and maintenance to improve the efficiency of judicial systems and their cooperation by means of information and communication technology , including the cross - border interoperability of systems and applications ; 6 . developing capacity of key european level networks and european judicial networks , including networks established by union law to ensure the effective application and enforcement of union law , to promote and further develop union law , policy goals and strategies in the areas of the programme , as well as supporting civil society organisations active in the areas covered by the programme ; 7 . enhancing knowledge of the programme and dissemination and transferability of its results and fostering citizen outreach , including by setting up and supporting programme desks / national contact network . _________________ 1a these activities include for instance the collection of data and statistics ; the development of common methodologies and , where appropriate , indicators or benchmarks ; studies , researches , analyses and surveys ; evaluations ; impact assessment ; the elaboration and publication of guides , reports and educational material .


### pursuant to article 67 tfeu , the union should constitute an area of freedom , security and justice with respect for fundamental rights , to which access to justice is instrumental . in order to facilitate effective access to justice , and with a view to foster the mutual trust which is indispensable for the good functioning of the area of freedom , security and justice , it is necessary to extend financial support to activities of other authorities than judicial authorities and legal practitioners , as well as of civil society organisations , which contribute to these objectives . ### pursuant to article 67 tfeu , the union should constitute an area of freedom , security and justice with respect for fundamental rights , to which access to justice is instrumental . in order to facilitate equal and effective access to justice for all , and with a view to foster the mutual trust which is indispensable for the good functioning of the area of freedom , security and justice , it is necessary to extend financial support to activities of other authorities than judicial authorities and legal practitioners , including civil society organisations and academia , which contribute to these objectives .


### the commission should ensure overall consistency , complementarity and synergies with the work of union bodies , offices and agencies , such as eurojust , eu - lisa and the european public prosecutor office , and should take stock of the work of other national and international actors in the areas covered by the programme . ### the commission should ensure overall consistency , complementarity and synergies with the work of union bodies , offices and agencies , such as eurojust , eu - lisa , the european anti - fraud office and the european public prosecutor office , and should take stock of the work of other national and international actors in the areas covered by the programme .


### respect for the rule of law is essential for a high level of mutual trust in the area of justice and home affairs , in particular for effective judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters which is based on mutual recognition . the rule of law is one of the common values enshrined in article teu 2 , and the principle of effective judicial protection provided for in articles 19 teu and 47 of the charter of fundamental rights is a concrete expression of the rule of law . promoting the rule of law by supporting the efforts to improve the independence , quality and efficiency of national justice systems enhances the mutual trust which is indispensable for judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters . ### respect for the rule of law is essential for a high level of mutual trust in the area of freedom , security and justice and home affairs , in particular for effective judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters which is based on mutual recognition . the rule of law is one of the common values enshrined in article teu 2 , and the principle of effective judicial protection provided for in articles 19 teu and 47 of the charter of fundamental rights is a concrete expression of the rule of law . promoting the rule of law by supporting the efforts to improve the independence , transparency , accountability , quality and efficiency of national justice systems enhances the mutual trust which is indispensable for judicial cooperation in civil and criminal matters .


### financing should remain one of the important tools for the successful implementation of the ambitious goals set by the treaties . they should be attained inter alia by establishing a flexible and effective justice programme which should facilitate planning and implementation of those goals . ### financing is one of the most important tools for the successful implementation of the ambitious goals set by the treaties . they should be attained inter alia by establishing a flexible and effective justice programme which should facilitate planning and implementation of those goals , taking into account which activities bring the highest union added value , using key performance indicators , whenever possible .


### the interim evaluation of the programme shall be carried out once there is sufficient information available about the implementation of the programme , but no later than four years after the start of the programme implementation . ### the interim evaluation of the programme shall be carried out once there is sufficient information available about the implementation of the programme , but no later than three years after the start of the programme implementation .


### the treaty on the functioning of the european union provides for the creation of an area of freedom , security and justice , with respect for fundamental rights and the different legal systems and traditions of the member states . to that end , the union may adopt measures to develop judicial cooperation in civil matters and judicial cooperation in criminal matters and to promote and support the action of member states in the field of crime prevention . respect for fundamental rights as well as for common principles and values , such as non - discrimination , gender equality , effective access to justice for all , the rule of law and a well - functioning independent judicial system shall be ensured in the further development of a european area of justice . ### the treaty on the functioning of the european union provides for the creation of an area of freedom , security and justice , with respect for human and fundamental rights and the different legal systems and traditions of the member states . to that end , the union may adopt measures to develop judicial cooperation in civil matters and judicial cooperation in criminal and administrative matters and to promote and support the action of member states in the field of crime prevention . respect for human and fundamental rights as well as for common principles and values , such as non - discrimination , gender equality , effective access to justice for all , the rule of law and a well - functioning independent judicial system shall be ensured in the further development of a european area of justice .


### at the end of the implementation of the programme , but no later than four years after the end of the period specified in article 1 , a final evaluation of the programme shall be carried out by the commission . ### at the end of the implementation of the programme , but no later than three years after the end of the period specified in article 1 , a final evaluation of the programme shall be carried out by the commission .


### to facilitate effective access to justice for all and effective redress , including by electronic means , by promoting efficient civil and criminal procedures and by promoting and supporting the rights of victims of crime as well as the procedural rights of suspects and accused persons in criminal proceedings . ### to facilitate equal and effective access to justice for all and effective redress , including by electronic means , by promoting efficient civil and criminal procedures and by promoting and supporting the rights of victims of crime as well as the procedural rights of suspects and accused persons in criminal proceedings .


### these rights and values must continue to be promoted and enforced , shared among the citizens and peoples within the union and be at the heart of europe’s societies , therefore , a new justice , rights and values fund , comprising the rights and values and the justice programmes shall be created in the union budget . at a time where european societies are confronted with extremism , radicalism and divisions , it is more important than ever to promote , strengthen and defend justice , rights and eu values : human rights , respect for human dignity , freedom , democracy , equality , the rule of law . this will have profound and direct implications for political , social , cultural and economic life in the eu . as a part of the new fund , the rights and values programme will bring together the 2014 - 2020 rights , equality and citizenship programme established by regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council10 and the europe for citizens programme established by regulation no 390 / 2014 of the council11 . the justice programme will continue to support the development of an integrated european justice area and cross - border cooperation , in continuity with the 2014 - 2020 justice programme established by regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council12 . _________________ 10 regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 17 december 2013 establishing a rights , equality and citizenship programme for the period 2014 to 2020 11 council regulation no 390 / 2014 of 14 april 2014 establishing the ‘ europe for citizens’ programme for the period 2014 - 2020 12 regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 17 december 2013 establishing a rights , equality and citizenship programme for the period 2014 to 2020 . ### these rights and values must continue to be actively promoted and enforced , shared among the citizens and peoples within the union and be at the heart of europe’s societies , therefore , a new justice , rights and values fund , comprising the rights and values and the justice programmes shall be created in the union budget . at a time where european societies are confronted with extremism , radicalism , polarisation and divisions , it is more important than ever to promote , strengthen and defend justice , rights and common eu values : human rights , respect for human dignity , freedom , democracy , equality , the rule of law . this will have profound and direct implications for political , social , cultural and economic life in the eu . as a part of the new fund , the rights and values programme will bring together the 2014 - 2020 rights , equality and citizenship programme established by regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council10 and the europe for citizens programme established by regulation no 390 / 2014 of the council11 . the justice programme will continue to support the development of an integrated european justice area and cross - border cooperation , in continuity with the 2014 - 2020 justice programme established by regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council12 . _________________ 10 regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 17 december 2013 establishing a rights , equality and citizenship programme for the period 2014 to 2020 11 council regulation no 390 / 2014 of 14 april 2014 establishing the ‘ europe for citizens’ programme for the period 2014 - 2020 12 regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 17 december 2013 establishing a rights , equality and citizenship programme for the period 2014 to 2020 .


### third countries which are members of the european economic area may participate in union programmes in the framework of the cooperation established under the eea agreement , which provides for the implementation of the programmes by a decision under that agreement . third countries may also participate on the basis of other legal instruments . a specific provision should be introduced in this regulation to grant the necessary rights for and access to the authorizing officer responsible , the european anti - fraud office as well as the european court of auditors to comprehensively exert their respective competences . ### subject to complying with all its rules and regulations , third countries which are members of the european economic area may participate in union programmes in the framework of the cooperation established under the eea agreement , which provides for the implementation of the programmes by a decision under that agreement . third countries may also participate on the basis of other legal instruments . a specific provision should be introduced in this regulation to grant the necessary rights for and access to the authorizing officer responsible , the european anti - fraud office as well as the european court of auditors to comprehensively exert their respective competences .


### the justice , rights and values fund and its two underlying funding programmes will focus primarily on people and entities which contribute to make our common values , rights and rich diversity alive and vibrant . the ultimate objective is to nurture and sustain our rights - based , equal , inclusive and democratic society . that includes a vibrant civil society , encouraging people’s democratic , civic and social participation and to fostering the rich diversity of european society , also based on our common history and memory . article 11 of the eu treaty further specifies that the institutions shall , by appropriate means , give citizens and representative associations the opportunity to make known and publicly exchange their views in all areas of union action . ### the justice , rights and values fund and its two underlying funding programmes will focus primarily on people and entities which contribute to make our common values , rights and rich diversity alive and vibrant . the ultimate objective is to nurture and sustain our rights - and freedoms - based , equal , inclusive and democratic society . that includes stimulating a vibrant civil society , encouraging people’s democratic , civic and social participation , protecting independent media , and fostering the rich diversity of european society , also based on our common history and memory . article 11 of the eu treaty further specifies that the institutions shall , by appropriate means , give citizens and representative associations the opportunity to make known and publicly exchange their views in all areas of union action .


### the general objective of the programme shall be to contribute to institutional , administrative and structural reforms in the member states by providing support to national authorities for measures aimed at reforming institutions , governance , administration , economic and social sectors in response to economic and social challenges with a view to enhancing competitiveness , growth , jobs , and investment , in particular in the context of economic governance processes , including through assistance for the efficient and effective use of the union funds . ### the general objective of the programme shall be to contribute to institutional , administrative and structural reforms initiated and designed in the member states by providing support to national , regional and local authorities for measures aimed at reforming institutions , governance , administration , economic and social sectors in response to economic and social challenges with a view to promoting public investment , combating poverty and social exclusion , creating quality jobs and promoting collective bargaining , in particular in the context of economic governance processes , including through assistance for the efficient and effective use of the union funds .


### against this background , it is necessary to establish a structural reform support programme with the objective of strengthening the capacity of member states to prepare and implement growth - enhancing administrative and structural reforms , including through assistance for the efficient and effective use of the union funds . the programme is intended to contribute to the achievement of common goals towards obtaining economic recovery , job creation , boosting europe ' s competitiveness and stimulating investment in the real economy . ### against this background , it is necessary to establish a structural reform support programme with the objective of strengthening the capacity of member states to prepare and implement growth - enhancing administrative and structural reforms , including through assistance for the efficient and effective use of the union funds . the programme is intended to contribute to the achievement of common goals towards obtaining social inclusion , economic recovery , quality job creation , boosting europe’s cohesion and competitiveness and stimulating investment in the real economy . the programme is not intended as an incentive mechanism but as a support for member states in their reform agenda .


### support under the programme should be provided by the commission upon request by a member state , in areas such as budget and taxation , public function , institutional and administrative reforms , the justice system , anti - fraud , anti - corruption and anti - money laundering , business environment , private sector development , investment , competition , public procurement , privatization processes , access to finance , investment , trade , sustainable development , innovation , education and training , labour policies , public health , asylum , migration policies , agriculture and rural development and financial sector policies . ### support under the programme should be provided by the commission upon request by a member state , in areas such as budget and taxation , public function , institutional and administrative reforms , the justice system , anti - fraud , anti - corruption and anti - money laundering , public investment , development of quality , accessible public services including through renationalisation and remunicipalisation processes , access to finance , public investment , trade , sustainable development , innovation , reception of asylum seekers , agriculture and rural development and financial sector policies . while a member state should request such support , the process of initiating the request should take place in consultation with the social partners , civil society , and local and regional authorities .


### several member states have been undergoing and continue to undergo adjustment processes to correct macroeconomic imbalances accumulated in the past and many are facing the challenge of low potential growth . the union has identified the implementation of structural reforms among its policy priorities to set the recovery on a sustainable path , unlock the growth potential to strengthen the adjustment capacity , and support the process of convergence . ### several member states have been required by the troika of the commission , the european central bank and the international monetary fund to undergo structural adjustment processes in order to reduce their public deficits caused by the financial crisis and public bailouts of financial institutions , with devastating social consequences in those member states .


### the tallinn digital summit55of september 2017 and the conclusions of the european council56of 19 october 2017 indicated the need for europe to invest in digitising our economies and addressing the skills gap to maintain and enhance european competitiveness , our quality of life and social fabric . the european council concluded that the digital transformation offers immense opportunities for innovation , growth and jobs , will contribute to our global competitiveness , and enhance creative and cultural diversity . seizing these opportunities requires collectively tackling some of the challenges posed by the digital transformation and reviewing policies affected by the digital transformation . _________________ 55 https : / / www . eu2017 . ee / news / insights / conclusions - after - tallinn - digital - summit 56 https : / / www . consilium . europa . eu / media / 21620 / 19 - euco - final - conclusions - en . pdf ### the tallinn digital summit55 of september 2017 and the conclusions of the european council56 of 19 october 2017 indicated the need for europe to invest in digitising our economies and addressing the skills gap to maintain and enhance european competitiveness , our quality of life and social fabric . the european council concluded that the digital transformation offers immense opportunities for innovation , growth and jobs , will contribute to our global competitiveness , and enhance creative and cultural diversity , media freedom and democratic dialogue . seizing these opportunities requires collectively tackling some of the challenges posed by the digital transformation and reviewing policies affected by the digital transformation . _________________ 55 https : / / www . eu2017 . ee / news / insights / conclusions - after - tallinn - digital - summit 56 https : / / www . consilium . europa . eu / media / 21620 / 19 - euco - final - conclusions - en . pdf


### ' digital innovation hub ' means legal entity designated or selected in an open and competitive procedure in order to fulfil the tasks under the programme , in particular providing access to technological expertise and experimentation facilities , such as equipment and software tools to enable the digital transformation of the industry . ### ' digital innovation hub ' means legal entity designated or selected in an open and competitive procedure in order to fulfil the tasks under the programme , in particular providing access to technological expertise and experimentation facilities , such as equipment and software tools to enable the digital transformation of the industry and social institutions .


### the tallinn digital summit55of september 2017 and the conclusions of the european council56of 19 october 2017 indicated the need for europe to invest in digitising our economies and addressing the skills gap to maintain and enhance european competitiveness , our quality of life and social fabric . the european council concluded that the digital transformation offers immense opportunities for innovation , growth and jobs , will contribute to our global competitiveness , and enhance creative and cultural diversity . seizing these opportunities requires collectively tackling some of the challenges posed by the digital transformation and reviewing policies affected by the digital transformation . _________________ 55 https : / / www . eu2017 . ee / news / insights / conclusions - after - tallinn - digital - summit 56 https : / / www . consilium . europa . eu / media / 21620 / 19 - euco - final - conclusions - en . pdf ### the tallinn digital summit55 of september 2017 and the conclusions of the european council56 of 19 october 2017 indicated the need for europe to invest in digitising our economies and addressing the skills gap to maintain and enhance european competitiveness , our quality of life and social fabric . in addition , on 10 april 2018 , the european countries pledged to make progress with artificial intelligence and blockchain technology . the european council concluded that the digital transformation offers immense opportunities for innovation , growth and jobs , will contribute to our global competitiveness , and enhance creative and cultural diversity . seizing these opportunities requires collectively tackling some of the challenges posed by the digital transformation and reviewing policies affected by the digital transformation . _________________ 55 https : / / www . eu2017 . ee / news / insights / conclusions - after - tallinn - digital - summit 56 https : / / www . consilium . europa . eu / media / 21620 / 19 - euco - final - conclusions - en . pdf


### esf + lays down provisions intended to achieve freedom of movement for workers on a non - discriminatory basis by ensuring the close cooperation of the central employment services of member states with one another and with the commission . the european network of employment services should promote a better functioning of the labour markets by facilitating the cross - border mobility of workers and a greater transparency of information on the labour markets . the esf + scope also includes developing and supporting targeted mobility schemes with a view to filling vacancies where labour market shortcomings have been identified . ### esf + lays down provisions intended to achieve freedom of movement for workers with high - quality social conditions and on a non - discriminatory basis . the public employment services of member states , the social partners and the commission should work closely together . the european network of employment services , with the involvement of the social partners and relevant civil - society organisations , should promote a better functioning of the labour markets by facilitating the non - precarious cross - border mobility of workers and a greater transparency , of information on the labour markets with disaggregated data , as well as greater skills recognition . the esf + scope also includes developing and supporting targeted mobility schemes with a view to filling vacancies where labour market shortcomings have been identified . furthermore , the scope of the esf + covers cross - border partnerships between regional public employment services and social partners and their activities to promote voluntary and fair mobility , as well as transparency and integration of cross - border labour markets through information , advice and placement . in many border regions they play an important role in the development of a genuine european labour market .


### member states shall allocate at least 2% of their esf + resources under shared management to the specific objective of addressing material deprivation set out in point of article 4 . ### member states shall allocate at least 4% of their esf + resources under shared management to the specific objective of addressing social inclusion of the most deprived and / or material deprivation set out in point of article 4 .


### member states shall concentrate the esf + resources under shared management on interventions that address the challenges identified in their national reform programmes , in the european semester as well as in the relevant country - specific recommendations adopted in accordance with article 121 tfeu and article 148 tfeu , and take into account principles and rights set out in the european pillar of social rights . ### member states shall concentrate the esf + resources under shared management on interventions that address the social challenges identified on national , regional and local level , in accordance with article 151 tfeu , the revised european social charter and the principles and rights set out in the european pillar of social rights .


### promoting women’s labour market participation , a better work / life balance including access to childcare , a healthy and well–adapted working environment addressing health risks , adaptation of workers , enterprises and entrepreneurs to change , and active and healthy ageing ; ### promoting women’s labour market participation , a better work / life balance including equal access to affordable , inclusive and non - segregated quality early childhood education and childcare , and other care services and support , a healthy and well–adapted working environment addressing health risks , adaptation of workers , enterprises and entrepreneurs to change , and active and healthy ageing ;


### each member state shall ensure adequate participation of social partners and civil society organisations in the delivery of employment , education and social inclusion policies supported by the esf + strand under shared management . ### each member state shall ensure , in accordance with article 6 of the common provisions regulation xx / xx and commission delegated regulation no 240 / 2014 , meaningful participation of local and regional authorities , social partners and civil society organisations and service users in the strategic governance of the esf + in all phases of programming , from shaping the priorities of the operational programmes to the delivery , monitoring and evaluation of all policies supported by the esf + strand under shared management . this should include a dedicated approach to social partners ' capacity building in line with the 2016 quadri - partite statement on a new start for social dialogue .


### esf + lays down provisions intended to achieve freedom of movement for workers on a non - discriminatory basis by ensuring the close cooperation of the central employment services of member states with one another and with the commission . the european network of employment services should promote a better functioning of the labour markets by facilitating the cross - border mobility of workers and a greater transparency of information on the labour markets . the esf + scope also includes developing and supporting targeted mobility schemes with a view to filling vacancies where labour market shortcomings have been identified . ### esf + lays down provisions intended to achieve freedom of movement for workers on a non - discriminatory basis . the central employment services of member states working with one another , the social partners and the commission should cooperate closely . the european network of employment services , with the involvement of the social partners , should promote a better functioning of the labour markets by facilitating the cross - border mobility of workers under fair conditions and a greater transparency of information on the labour markets . the esf + scope includes developing and supporting targeted mobility schemes with a view to filling high - quality vacancies where labour market shortcomings have been identified . esf + also covers cross - border partnerships between regional public employment services and the social partners and the work done in the context of those partnerships to foster voluntary , fair mobility and the transparency and integration of cross - border labour markets , through the provision of information , advice and employment services . in many border regions these partnerships play an important role in the development of a genuinely european labour market .


### all personal data are to be broken down by gender . if certain results are not possible , data for those results do not have to be collected and reported . ### all personal data are to be broken down by gender . if certain results are not relevant , data for those results do not have to be collected and reported . sensitive personal data can be registered anonymously in case of significantly deprived persons .


### the esf + should promote flexible upskilling and reskilling opportunities for all , notably digital skills and key enabling technologies , with a view to providing people with skills adjusted to digitalisation , technological change , innovation and social and economic change , facilitating career transitions , mobility and supporting in particular low - skilled and / or poorly qualified adults , in line with the skills agenda for europe . ### the esf + should promote flexible upskilling and reskilling opportunities for all , notably digital skills and key enabling technologies , with a view to providing people with skills adjusted to digitalisation , technological change , innovation and social and economic change , facilitating career transitions , mobility and supporting in particular low - skilled , persons with disabilities and / or poorly qualified adults , in line with the skills agenda for europe .


### the esf + should contribute to the reduction of poverty by supporting national schemes aiming to alleviate food and material deprivation and promote social integration of people at risk of poverty or social exclusion and the most deprived . with a view that at union level at least 4% of the resources of the esf + strand under shared management supports the most deprived , member states should allocate at least 2% of their national resources of the esf + strand under shared management to address the forms of extreme poverty with the greatest social exclusion impact , such as homelessness , child poverty and food deprivation . due to the nature of the operations and the type of end recipients , it is necessary that simpler rules apply to support which addresses material deprivation of the most deprived . ### the esf + should contribute to the reduction of poverty by supporting national schemes aiming to alleviate food and material deprivation and promote social integration of people at risk of poverty or social exclusion and the most deprived . member states should allocate at least 4% of their national resources of the esf + strand under shared management to address the forms of extreme poverty with the greatest social exclusion impact , such as homelessness , child poverty and food deprivation . due to the nature of the operations and the type of end recipients , it is necessary that simpler rules apply to support which addresses material deprivation of the most deprived . at the same time , the involvement of specialised ngos and organisations representing people at risk of poverty and social exclusion is also important in the process of developing and implementing specific programmes .


### on 20 june 2017 , the council endorsed the union response to the ' un 2030 agenda for sustainable development’ - a sustainable european future . the council underlined the importance of achieving sustainable development across the three dimensions , in a balanced and integrated way . it is vital that sustainable development is mainstreamed into all union internal and external policy areas , and that the union is ambitious in the policies it uses to address global challenges . the council welcomed the commission communication on ' next steps for a sustainable european future ' of 22 november 2016 as a first step in mainstreaming the sustainable development goals and applying sustainable development as an essential guiding principle for all union policies , including through its financing instruments . ### on 20 june 2017 , the council endorsed the union response to the ' un 2030 agenda for sustainable development’ - a sustainable european future . the council underlined the importance of achieving sustainable development across the three dimensions , in a balanced and integrated way . it is vital that sustainable development is mainstreamed into all union internal and external policy areas , and that the union is ambitious in the policies it uses to address global challenges . the council welcomed the commission communication on ' next steps for a sustainable european future ' of 22 november 2016 as a first step in mainstreaming the sustainable development goals and applying sustainable development as an essential guiding principle for all union policies , including through its financing instruments . the esf + contributes to implementing the sustainable development goals to halve relative poverty and eradicate extreme forms of poverty , promoting quality and inclusive education and gender equality , as well as sustained , inclusive and sustainable economic growth , full and productive employment and decent work for all , and reducing inequality .


### promoting women’s labour market participation , a better work / life balance including access to childcare , a healthy and well–adapted working environment addressing health risks , adaptation of workers , enterprises and entrepreneurs to change , and active and healthy ageing ; ### promoting equality between men and women in all areas , including promoting women ' s labour market participation , career progression , equal pay for equal work and a better work / life balance , with a special focus on single mothers or parents , including access to childcare , dependent care and care for the elderly ; promoting a healthy and well–adapted working environment addressing health risks ; promoting adaptation of enterprises and entrepreneurs to change , and active and healthy ageing ;


### the delivery of food and / or material assistance may be complemented with re - orientation towards competent services and other accompanying measures aiming at the social inclusion of the most deprived persons . ### the delivery of food and / or material assistance shall be complemented with re - orientation towards competent services and other accompanying incentives or psychological motivation aiming at the social inclusion of the most deprived persons .


### promoting social integration of people at risk of poverty or social exclusion , including the most deprived and children ; ### promoting social integration of people at risk of poverty and / or social exclusion , including the most deprived , persons with disabilities and children ;


### the esf + committee shall include one representative from each of the organisations representing workers ' organisations and employers ' organisations at union level . ### the esf + committee shall include one representative from each of the organisations representing workers ' organisations , employers ' organisations , the relevant civil society organisations , and the equality bodies at union level .


### ' social experimentations ' mean policy interventions that offer an innovative response to social needs , implemented on a small scale and in conditions that enable their impact to be measured , prior to being implemented in other contexts or on a larger scale , if the results prove convincing ; ### ' social experimentations ' mean policy interventions that offer an innovative response to social needs , implemented on a small scale and in conditions that enable their impact to be measured , prior to being implemented in other geographical or sectoral contexts or on a larger scale , if the results prove advantages over current practices ;


### promoting women’s labour market participation , a better work / life balance including access to childcare , a healthy and well–adapted working environment addressing health risks , adaptation of workers , enterprises and entrepreneurs to change , and active and healthy ageing ; ### promoting gender equality in all areas , including women’s labour market participation respecting the principle of equal pay for equal work and for work of equal value , and offering a fair , living wage , a better work / life balance , including equal access to inclusive and non - segregated quality early childhood education , and care and to other community - based care services for persons with disabilities and older people , a healthy and well–adapted working and living environment addressing health risks , smooth adaptation of workers , enterprises and entrepreneurs to change , and active and healthy ageing ;


### the council of [ … ] adopted revised guidelines for the employment policies of the member states to align the text with the principles of the european pillar of social rights , with a view to improving europe’s competitiveness and making it a better place to invest , create jobs and foster social cohesion . in order to ensure the full alignment of the esf + with the objectives of these guidelines , particularly as regards employment , education , training and the fight against social exclusion , poverty and discrimination , the esf + should support member states , taking account of the relevant integrated guidelines and relevant country - specific recommendations adopted in accordance with article 121 tfeu and article 148 tfeu and , where appropriate , at national level , the national reform programmes underpinned by national strategies . the esf + should also contribute to relevant aspects of the implementation of key union initiatives and activities , in particular the “skills agenda for europe” and the european education area , relevant council recommendations and other initiatives such as the youth guarantee , upskilling pathways and on integration of the long - term unemployed . ### in order to ensure the full alignment of the esf + with the union’s objectives as regards employment , education , training and the fight against social exclusion , poverty and discrimination , the esf + should support member states and contribute to relevant aspects of the implementation of key union initiatives and activities , in particular the “skills agenda for europe” , the european education area and the action plan on the integration of third - country nationals , relevant council recommendations and other initiatives such as the youth guarantee , upskilling pathways and on integration of the long - term unemployed .


### modernising labour market institutions and services to assess and anticipate skills needs and ensure timely and tailor - made assistance and support to labour market matching , transitions and mobility ; ### modernising labour market institutions and services to assess and anticipate skills needs and ensure timely and tailor - made assistance and support to labour market matching , transitions across the life - cycle and mobility ;


### all programmes implemented under the esf + strand under shared management , as well as the operations supported by the employment and social innovation and health strands shall ensure equality between men and women throughout their preparation , implementation , monitoring and evaluation . they shall also promote equal opportunities for all , without discrimination based on sex , racial or ethnic origin , religion or belief , disability , age or sexual orientation throughout their preparation , implementation , monitoring and evaluation . ### all programmes implemented under the esf + strand under shared management , as well as the operations supported by the employment and social innovation and health strands shall ensure gender equality throughout their preparation , implementation , monitoring and evaluation . they shall also promote equal opportunities for all , without discrimination based on sex , racial or ethnic origin , religion or belief , disability , age or sexual orientation throughout their preparation , implementation , monitoring and evaluation . in addition , the member states and the commission shall also implement targeted actions with the aim , in particular , of increasing the sustainable participation and career progression of women in employment , in return for a living wage , thus combating the feminisation of poverty , reducing gender - based segregation , combating gender stereotypes in the labour market and in education and training , and promoting the reconciliation of work and personal life for all , as well as the equal sharing of care responsibilities between men and women .


### promoting equal access to and completion of , quality and inclusive education and training , in particular for disadvantaged groups , from early childhood education and care through general and vocational education and training , and to tertiary level , as well as adult education and learning , including facilitating learning mobility for all ; ### promoting equal access to and completion of , quality and inclusive education and training , ensuring it is non segregated and adequately addresses early school leaving , among others through second chance opportunities , in particular for disadvantaged groups , from early childhood education and care through general and vocational education and training , and to tertiary level , as well as adult education and learning , including facilitating learning mobility for all and accessibility for persons with disabilities ;


### support to relevant country - specific recommendations ### addressing local and regional challenges


### member states shall allocate at least 25% of their esf + resources under shared management to the specific objectives for the social inclusion policy area set out in points to of article 4 , including the promotion of the socio - economic integration of third country nationals . ### member states shall allocate at least 30% of their esf + resources under shared management to the specific objectives for the social inclusion policy area set out in points to of article 4 , including the promotion of the socio - economic inclusion of third country nationals .


### the esf + shall support the following specific objectives in the policy areas of employment , education , social inclusion and health and thereby also contributing to the policy objective for &#8220 ; a more social europe - implementing the european pillar of social rights&#8221 ; set out in article [ 4 ] of the [ future cpr ] : ### the esf + shall support the following specific objectives in the policy areas of employment , education , mobility , social inclusion , eradication of poverty and health and thereby also contributing to the policy objective for &#8220 ; a more social europe - implementing the european pillar of social rights&#8221 ; set out in article [ 4 ] of the [ future cpr ] :


### member states shall allocate at least 2% of their esf + resources under shared management to the specific objective of addressing material deprivation set out in point of article 4 . ### in addition to the minimum allocation of at least 30% of the esf + resources under shared management to the specific objectives vii ) – x ) of article - 7 , member states shall allocate at least 4% of their esf + resources under shared management to the specific objective of addressing social inclusion of the most deprived and / or material deprivation as set out in points and of article - 7 .


### fostering active inclusion with a view to promoting equal opportunities and active participation , and improving employability ; ### promoting active employment policies and fostering active inclusion with a view to promoting equal opportunities , non - discrimination and active participation , and improving employability ;


### the union is confronted with structural challenges arising from economic globalisation , the management of migration flows and the increased security threat , clean energy transition , technological change and an increasingly ageing workforce and growing skills and labour shortages in some sectors and regions , experienced especially by smes . taking into account the changing realities of the world of work , the union should be prepared for the current and future challenges by investing in relevant skills , making growth more inclusive and by improving employment and social policies , including in view of labour mobility . ### the union is confronted with structural challenges arising from economic globalisation , the impact of austerity policies , the management of migration , clean energy transition , technological change and an increasingly ageing workforce and growing skills and labour shortages in some sectors and regions . taking into account the changing realities of the world of work , the union should be prepared for the current and future challenges by investing in relevant skills , making growth inclusive and by improving employment and social policies , including in view of labour mobility .


### by 30 june 2025 and 30 june 2028 , managing authorities shall report to the commission the results of a structured survey of the end recipients carried out during the previous year . this survey shall be based on the model which shall be established by the commission by means of an implementing act . ### by 30 june 2025 and 30 june 2028 , managing authorities shall report to the commission the results of a structured anonymous survey of the end recipients carried out during the previous year , focusing on their living conditions and the nature of their material deprivation . this survey shall be based on the model which shall be established by the commission by means of an implementing act .