### support the commission in its international initiatives on the hydrogen strategy , such as the international partnership on the hydrogen economy (iphe) , mission innovation and the clean energy ministerial hydrogen initiative. ### where appropriate , assist the commission in its international initiatives on the hydrogen strategy , such as the international partnership on the hydrogen economy (iphe) , mission innovation and the clean energy ministerial hydrogen initiative while avoiding the relocation of environmental impacts , including greenhouse gas emissions.


### the members of the clean hydrogen joint undertaking shall be: ### the members of the renewable hydrogen joint undertaking shall be:


### the hydrogen europe aisbl , a non-profit organisation established under belgian law (registration number: 890 025 478) with its permanent office in brussels , belgium (the ‘industry grouping’) , upon notification of its decision to unconditionally accede to the clean hydrogen joint undertaking by means of a letter of commitment; ### the hydrogen europe aisbl , a non-profit organisation established under belgian law (registration number: 890 025 478) with its permanent office in brussels , belgium (the ‘industry grouping’) , upon notification of its decision to unconditionally accede to the renewable hydrogen joint undertaking by means of a letter of commitment;


### the hydrogen europe research aisbl , a non-profit organisation established under belgian law (registration number: 0897 679 372) with its permanent office in brussels , belgium (the ‘research grouping’) , upon notification of its decision to unconditionally accede to the clean hydrogen joint undertaking by means of a letter of commitment. ### the hydrogen europe research aisbl , a non-profit organisation established under belgian law (registration number: 0897 679 372) with its permanent office in brussels , belgium (the ‘research grouping’) , upon notification of its decision to unconditionally accede to the renewable hydrogen joint undertaking by means of a letter of commitment.


### 1. the members of the clean hydrogen joint undertaking other than the union shall make or arrange for their constituent or affiliated entities to make a total contribution of at least eur 1 000 000 000 , including up to eur 30 193 000 for administrative costs over the period set out in article 3. ### 1. the members of the renewable hydrogen joint undertaking other than the union shall make or arrange for their constituent or affiliated entities to make a total contribution of at least eur 1 000 000 000 , including up to eur 30 193 000 for administrative costs over the period set out in article 3.


### 2. the contribution referred to in paragraph 1 of this article shall consist of contributions to the clean hydrogen joint undertaking in accordance with article 11(1). ### 2. the contribution referred to in paragraph 1 of this article shall consist of contributions to the renewable hydrogen joint undertaking in accordance with article 11(1).


### 2. additional activities of the clean hydrogen joint undertaking shall aim at ensuring synergies with the clean hydrogen alliance54 , mission innovation challenge ‘renewable and clean hydrogen’55 , the european union innovation fund56 and the h2 regions s3 platform57 . ### deleted


### the bodies of the clean hydrogen joint undertaking shall be the following: ### the bodies of the renewable hydrogen joint undertaking shall be the following:


### foster synergies with relevant activities and programmes at union , national , and regional level , in particular with those supporting the deployment of research and innovation solutions , infrastructure , education and regional development on the use of clean hydrogen; ### foster synergies with relevant activities and programmes at union , national , and regional level , in particular with those supporting the deployment of research and innovation solutions , infrastructure , education and regional development on the use of renewable hydrogen;


### encourage market uptake of technologies and solutions for achieving the european green deal’s objectives. ### encourage market uptake of sustainable technologies and solutions for achieving the european green deal’s objectives , in particular climate and energy targets.


### in addition to the tasks set out in article 18 , the executive director of the clean hydrogen joint undertaking shall carry out the following tasks: ### in addition to the tasks set out in article 18 , the executive director of the renewable hydrogen joint undertaking shall carry out the following tasks:


### support and contribute to other union initiatives related to hydrogen , subject to approval by the governing board; ### support and contribute to other union initiatives related to renewable hydrogen , subject to approval by the governing board;


### convene an annual european clean hydrogen partnership forum , which , where possible , shall be held jointly and in parallel with the european hydrogen forum of the clean hydrogen alliance. ### convene an annual european renewable hydrogen partnership forum.


### 1. the provisions of article 21 shall apply mutatis mutandis to the stakeholders group of the clean hydrogen joint undertaking. ### 1. the provisions of article 21 shall apply mutatis mutandis to the stakeholders group of the renewable hydrogen joint undertaking.


### 2. the stakeholders group shall consist of representatives of sectors which generate , distribute , store , need or use clean hydrogen across the union , including the representatives of other relevant european partnerships , as well as representatives of the european hydrogen valleys interregional partnership. ### 2. the stakeholders group shall consist of representatives of sectors which generate , distribute , store , or use renewable hydrogen across the union , including the representatives of the renewable electricity sector and civil society organisations.


### provide input on the strategic and the technological priorities to be addressed by the clean hydrogen joint undertaking as laid down in the strategic research and innovation agenda or any other equivalent document and associated detailed technological roadmaps , taking due account of the progress and needs in adjacent sectors; ### provide input on the strategic and the technological priorities to be addressed by the renewable hydrogen joint undertaking as laid down in the strategic research and innovation agenda or any other equivalent document and associated detailed technological roadmaps , taking due account of the progress and needs in adjacent sectors such as transport and hard-to-decarbonised industry;


### provide suggestions to enable concrete synergies to take place between the clean hydrogen joint undertaking and the adjacent sectors or any sector with which synergies are deemed of added value; ### provide suggestions to enable concrete synergies to take place between the renewable hydrogen joint undertaking and the adjacent sectors or any sector with which synergies are deemed of added value following the energy system integration priorities;


### provide input to the annual european hydrogen forum of the clean hydrogen alliance. ### deleted


### ensure a fast transition to more attractive , user-friendly , competitive , affordable , efficient and sustainable european rail system , integrated into the wider mobility system; ### ensure a fast transition to more attractive , user-friendly , affordable , efficient and sustainable european rail system , integrated into the wider mobility system;


### support the development of a strong and globally competitive european rail industry. ### support the development of a strong european rail industry.


### contribute to the development of a strong and globally competitive european rail industry. ### contribute to the development of a strong european rail industry.


### to reduce the socio-economic burden of infectious diseases in sub-saharan africa promoting the development and uptake of new or improved health technologies; ### to reduce socio-economic burden of infectious diseases , in particular poverty-related and neglected diseases , in sub-saharan africa promoting the development and uptake of new or improved health technologies that are affordable , accessible and suitable for low resource settings.


### to strengthen research and innovation capacity and the national health research systems in sub-saharan africa for tackling infectious diseases; ### to strengthen research and innovation capacity and the national health research systems in sub-saharan africa for tackling infectious diseases and increase the proportion of projects with african leadership;


### activities of constituent entities of the edctp association aligned with similar activities from other constituent entities of the edctp association and independently managed in accordance with national funding rules; ### activities of constituent entities of the edctp association coordinated , co-programmed or aligned with similar activities from other constituent entities of the edctp association and independently managed in accordance with national funding rules; the alignment of such activities needs to be demonstrated;


### the global health edctp3 joint undertaking shall ensure a close collaboration with the european medicine agency and european centre for disease prevention and control. ### the global health edctp3 joint undertaking shall ensure a close collaboration with the european medicine agency and european centre for disease prevention and control as well as with relevant african agencies and organisations , including the african centres for disease control , african union's regional communities , nepad-auda and the african academy of sciences;


### participants to indirect actions funded by the global health edctp3 joint undertaking shall ensure that the products and services developed based or partly based on the results of the indirect action are available and accessible to the public at fair and reasonable conditions. for that purpose , where relevant , the work programme shall specify additional exploitation obligations applicable to specific indirect actions. ### participants to indirect actions funded by the global health edctp3 joint undertaking shall ensure that the products and services developed based or partly based on the results of the indirect action are available , accessible and affordable for vulnerable populations and to the public in general , in particular in low resource settings at fair and reasonable conditions. for that purpose , the work programme shall specify additional exploitation obligations applicable to specific indirect actions.


### foster the development of safe , effective , people-centred and cost-effective innovations that respond to strategic unmet public health needs , by exhibiting , in at least five examples , the feasibility of integrating health care products or services , with demonstrated suitability for uptake by health care systems. the related projects should address the prevention , diagnosis , treatment and/or management of diseases affecting the union population , including contribution to europe’s beating cancer plan; ### foster the development of safe , effective , people-centred affordable for patients and for health care systems and cost-effective innovations that respond to strategic unmet public health needs , by exhibiting , in at least five examples , the feasibility of integrating health care products or services , with demonstrated suitability for uptake by health care systems. the related projects should address the surveillance , prevention , early diagnosis , treatment and/or management of diseases affecting the union population , including the fight against cancer in synergy with the europe’s beating cancer plan , and by supporting the establishment of the european cancer institute and the european one health action plan against antimicrobial resistance;


### drive cross-sectoral health innovation for a globally competitive european health industry , and contribute to reaching the objectives of the new industrial strategy for europe and the pharmaceutical strategy for europe. ### deleted


### contribute towards a better understanding of the determinants of health and priority disease areas; ### contribute towards a better understanding of the determinants of health , such as behaviour-related , biological , socio-economic and environmental factors that influence the health status of a person and priority disease areas;


### exploit the full potential of digitalisation and data exchange in health care; ### exploit the full potential of digitalisation and data exchange in health care without jeopardizing data protection and privacy of the people;


### (3) to deliver on priorities and impact , european partnerships should be developed through a broad involvement of relevant stakeholders across europe including industry , research organisations , bodies with a public service mission at local , regional , national or international level , and civil society organisations such as foundations that support and/or carry out research and innovation. they should also be one of the measures to strengthen cooperation between private and/or public sector partners at the international level including by joining up research and innovation programmes and cross-border investment in research and innovation bringing mutual benefits to people and businesses while ensuring that the union can uphold its interests in strategic areas. ### (3) to deliver on priorities and impact , european partnerships should be developed through a broad involvement of all relevant stakeholders across europe including industry , research organisations , bodies with a public service mission at local , regional , national or international level , and civil society organisations such as foundations that support and/or carry out research and innovation. they should also be one of the measures to strengthen cooperation between private and/or public sector partners at the international level including by joining up research and innovation programmes and cross-border investment in research and innovation bringing mutual benefits to people and businesses while ensuring that the union can uphold its independence in strategic areas.


### (7) where relevant , partnerships should consider technical screening criteria as of art. 3 and the “do no significant harm” principle as of art. 17 of the regulation (eu) 2020/852 as an instrument to improve their projects readiness and access to green financing that will be crucial for market uptake and wider deployment of the innovative technologies and solutions they will deliver. scientific evidence is at the core of the technical screening criteria. research and innovation , pursued by partnerships , should play an important role to help economic operators reach or go beyond the standards and thresholds set up in the regulation and to keep the technical screening criteria up-to-date and consistent with the european green deal objectives. ### (7) partnerships should consider technical screening criteria as of art. 3 and the “do no significant harm” principle as of art. 17 of the regulation (eu) 2020/852 as an instrument to improve their projects readiness and access to green financing that will be crucial for market uptake and wider deployment of the innovative technologies and solutions they will deliver. scientific evidence is at the core of the technical screening criteria. research and innovation , pursued by partnerships , should play an important role to help economic operators reach or go beyond the standards and thresholds set up in the regulation and to keep the technical screening criteria up-to-date and consistent with the european green deal objectives.


### (10) the research and innovation activities undertaken by the joint undertakings should be funded from horizon europe. to achieve maximum impact , the joint undertakings should develop close synergies with other union programmes and funding instruments , particularly with those supporting the deployment of innovative solutions , education and regional development , in order to increase economic and social cohesion and reduce imbalances. ### (10) the research and innovation activities undertaken by the joint undertakings should be funded from horizon europe. to achieve maximum impact , the joint undertakings should develop close synergies with other union programmes and funding instruments , particularly with those supporting the deployment of innovative solutions , education and regional development , environmental sustainability in order to increase economic and social cohesion and reduce imbalances.


### (15) this regulation is based on the principles and criteria set out in the horizon europe regulation , including openness and transparency , a strong leverage effect and long-term commitments of all the involved parties. one of the objectives of this regulation is to ensure the openness of the initiatives to a broad range of entities , including newcomers. the partnerships should be open to any entity that is willing and capable to work towards the common goal , and promote broad and active participation of stakeholders in their activities , membership and governance , and to ensure that the results would be for the benefit of all europeans , notably through a broad dissemination of results and pre-deployment activities across the union. ### (15) this regulation is based on the principles and criteria set out in the horizon europe regulation , including openness and transparency , a strong leverage effect and long-term commitments of all the involved parties. one of the objectives of this regulation is to ensure the openness of the initiatives to a broad range of entities , including newcomers. the partnerships should be open to any entity that is willing and capable to work towards the common goal , and promote broad and active participation of stakeholders in their activities , membership and governance , and to ensure that the results would be for the benefit of all europeans , notably through a broad dissemination of results and pre-deployment activities across the union in geographically balanced manner.


### (20) the horizon europe regulation requires the partners to show their long term commitment , including a minimum share of public and/or private investments. consequently , it is necessary for the union to identify in this regulation founding members established in member states , countries associated to the horizon europe programme or international organisations. however , where necessary , it should be possible to expand the membership base of joint undertakings after they are established with associated members selected following open and transparent procedures , taking into account in particular the new technological developments or the association of additional countries to the horizon europe programme. legal entities interested in supporting the joint undertakings’ objectives in their specific areas of research , without becoming a member , should also be offered the possibility to become contributing partners of these joint undertakings. ### (20) the horizon europe regulation requires the partners to show their long term commitment , including a minimum share of public and/or private investments. consequently , it is necessary for the union to identify in this regulation founding members established in member states , countries associated to the horizon europe programme or international organisations. however , where necessary , it should be possible to expand the membership base of joint undertakings after they are established with associated members selected following open , fair and transparent procedures , taking into account in particular the new technological developments or the association of additional countries to the horizon europe programme. legal entities interested in supporting the joint undertakings’ objectives in their specific areas of research , without becoming a member , should also be offered the possibility to become contributing partners of these joint undertakings.


### (21) the establishment of a joint undertaking ensures a mutually beneficial public-private partnership for the members involved , including by promoting certainty on major budget allocations for the relevant industries over a period of seven years. becoming a founding member or associated member , or one of their constituent or affiliated entities , allows gaining influence , either directly or through the industry representatives , in the governing board of the joint undertaking. the governing board is the decision-making body of the joint undertaking that decides on the long-term strategic orientation of the partnership , as well as its annual priorities. founding members and associated members and if applicable representing their constituent entities , should therefore be able to contribute to the joint undertaking's agenda and priority setting through the adoption and possible amendment of the strategic research and innovation agenda , as well as the adoption of the annual work programme , including the content of the calls for proposals , the applicable funding rate per call topic , and the related rules for submission , evaluation , selection , award and review procedures. ### (21) the establishment of a joint undertaking ensures a mutually beneficial public-private partnership for the members involved. the governing board is the decision-making body of the joint undertaking that decides on the long-term strategic orientation of the partnership , as well as its annual priorities. founding members and associated members and if applicable representing their constituent entities , should therefore be able to contribute to the joint undertaking's agenda and priority setting through the adoption and possible amendment of the strategic research and innovation agenda , as well as the adoption of the annual work programme , including the content of the calls for proposals , the applicable funding rate per call topic , and the related rules for submission , evaluation , selection , award and review procedures.


### (25) the governance of joint undertakings should ensure that their decision-making processes are fit to keep pace with fast-changing socio-economic and technological environment and global challenges. joint undertakings should benefit from the expertise , advice and support from all relevant stakeholders , in order to effectively implement their tasks and ensure synergies at union and national level. therefore , joint undertakings should be empowered to set up advisory bodies with a view to providing them with expert advice and carrying out any other task of an advisory nature that is necessary for the achievement of the joint undertakings' objectives. in setting up the advisory bodies , joint undertakings should ensure a balanced representation of experts within the scope of the activities of the joint undertaking , including with respect to gender balance. the advice provided by these bodies should bring in scientific perspectives as well as those of national and regional authorities and of other stakeholders of joint undertakings. ### (25) the governance of joint undertakings should ensure that their decision-making processes are fit to keep pace with fast-changing socio-economic and technological environment and global challenges. joint undertakings should benefit from the expertise , advice and support from all relevant stakeholders , in order to effectively implement their tasks and ensure synergies at union and national level. therefore , joint undertakings should be empowered to set up advisory bodies with a view to providing them with expert advice and carrying out any other task of an advisory nature that is necessary for the achievement of the joint undertakings' objectives. in setting up the advisory bodies , joint undertakings should ensure a gender balanced representation of experts within the scope of the activities of the joint undertaking , including with respect to gender balance. the advice provided by these bodies should bring in scientific perspectives as well as those of national and regional authorities and of other stakeholders of joint undertakings.


### (29) the joint undertakings should operate in an open and transparent way , providing all relevant information in a timely manner to their appropriate bodies as well as promoting their activities , including information and dissemination activities , to the wider public. ### (29) the joint undertakings should operate in an open , fair and transparent way , providing all relevant information in a timely manner to their appropriate bodies as well as promoting their activities , including information and dissemination activities , to the wider public.


### (39) in the context of the european commission’s priority of “a european green deal”13 supported by the revised union bioeconomy strategy14 , the eu biodiversity strategy15 , the clean planet for all communication16 , the circular economy action plan17 and the new farm to fork communication18 , the european bio-based sector , including smes , regions and primary producers should become climate neutral , more circular and more sustainable while remaining competitive on the global scale. a strong , resource efficient and competitive bio-based innovation ecosystem can decrease dependency on and accelerate the substitution of non-renewable fossil raw materials and mineral resources. it can develop renewable bio-based products , materials , processes and nutrients from waste and biomass through sustainability and circularity-driven innovation. such ecosystem can also create value from local feedstock – including waste , residues and side-streams – to deliver jobs , economic growth and development throughout the union not only in urban areas but also in rural and coastal territories where biomass is produced and that are often peripheral regions that rarely benefit from industrial development. ### (39) in the context of the european commission’s priority of “a european green deal”13 supported by the revised union bioeconomy strategy14 , the eu biodiversity strategy15 , the clean planet for all communication16 , the circular economy action plan17 and the new farm to fork communication18 , the european bio-based sector , including smes , regions and primary producers should become climate neutral , more circular and more sustainable while remaining competitive on the global scale. a strong , resource efficient and competitive bio-based innovation ecosystem can decrease dependency on and accelerate the substitution of non-renewable fossil raw materials and mineral resources. it can develop renewable bio-based products , materials , processes and nutrients from waste and biomass through sustainability and circularity-driven innovation. such ecosystem can also create value from local feedstock – including waste , residues and side-streams – to deliver jobs , economic and social growth and development throughout the union not only in urban areas but specially in rural and coastal territories where biomass is produced and that are often peripheral regions that rarely benefit from industrial , economic and social development.


### (42) the main objective of the clean aviation joint undertaking should be to contribute to reducing the ecological footprint of aviation by accelerating the development of climate neutral aviation technologies for their earliest possible deployment , therefore significantly contributing to the ambitious environment impact mitigation goals of the european green deal , that is to say a 55% emissions reduction by 2030 compared to 1990 levels , and climate neutrality by 2050. this objective can only be achieved through accelerating and optimising the research and innovation processes in aeronautics and by improving the global competitiveness of the union aviation industry. the clean aviation joint undertaking should also ensure that cleaner aviation remains safe , secure and efficient for the transportation of passengers and goods by air. ### (42) the main objective of the clean aviation joint undertaking should be to contribute to reducing the ecological footprint of aviation by accelerating the development of climate neutral aviation technologies for their earliest possible deployment , therefore significantly contributing to the ambitious environment impact mitigation goals of the european green deal , that is to say a 55% emissions reduction by 2030 compared to 1990 levels , and climate neutrality by 2050 at the latest and by tackling global societal challenges , including the sustainable development goals and commitments under paris agreement. this objective can only be achieved through accelerating and optimising the research and innovation processes in aeronautics and by improving the global competitiveness of the union aviation industry. the clean aviation joint undertaking should also ensure that cleaner aviation remains safe , secure and efficient for the transportation of passengers and goods by air.


### (48) interest in hydrogen has evolved dramatically in the last five years with all member states having signed and ratified the conference of the parties (cop21) paris agreement. at the end of 2019 , the commission presented the european green deal , which aims to transform the union into a fair and prosperous society , with a modern , resource-efficient and competitive economy , where there are no net emissions of greenhouse gases in 2050. priority areas include clean hydrogen , fuel cells , other alternative fuels and energy storage. hydrogen is prominent in the july 2020 “communications on a hydrogen strategy for a climate-neutral europe and an eu strategy for energy system integration” as well as for the launch of the european clean hydrogen alliance that brings all stakeholders together to identify technology needs , investment opportunities and regulatory barriers to build a clean hydrogen ecosystem in the union. ### (48) at the end of 2019 , the commission presented the european green deal , which aims to transform the union into a fair and prosperous society , with a modern , energy and resource-efficient and sustainable economy , where there are no net emissions of greenhouse gases in 2050 at latest. priority areas include renewable hydrogen , fuel cells , electrolysers , production of additional renewable energy and energy storage.


### (49) dedicated research and innovation activities related to hydrogen applications have been supported since 2008 , mainly through the fuel cell and hydrogen joint undertakings (fch joint undertaking and fch 2 joint undertaking) under fp7 and horizon 2020 as well as by traditional collaborative projects , covering all stages/fields of the hydrogen value chain. the clean hydrogen joint undertaking should strengthen and integrate union scientific capacity to accelerate the development and improvement of advanced clean hydrogen applications ready for market , across energy , transport , building and industrial end-uses. this will only be possible if combined with strengthening competitiveness of the union clean hydrogen value chain , and notably smes. ### (49) dedicated research and innovation activities related to hydrogen applications have been supported since 2008 , mainly through the fuel cell and hydrogen joint undertakings (fch joint undertaking and fch 2 joint undertaking) under fp7 and horizon 2020 as well as by traditional collaborative projects , covering all stages/fields of the hydrogen value chain. the clean hydrogen joint undertaking should strengthen and integrate union scientific capacity to accelerate the development and improvement of advanced renewable hydrogen applications.


### (50) to achieve the scientific objectives of the clean hydrogen joint undertaking , all sectors concerned by the hydrogen economy should be given the possibility to get involved in preparing and implementing its strategic research and innovation agenda. the public sector should also be involved , especially regional and national authorities , the latter being responsible for setting up climate policies and measures related to market mechanisms , to fill in the gaps between ready-to-market technology development and large-scale uptake. ### (50) to achieve the scientific objectives of the renewable hydrogen joint undertaking , all sectors and all users concerned by the hydrogen economy should be given the possibility to get involved in preparing and implementing its strategic research and innovation agenda. the public sector should also be involved , especially regional and national authorities , the latter being responsible for setting up climate policies and measures related to market mechanisms , to fill in the gaps between ready-to-market technology development and large-scale uptake.


### (51) since hydrogen can be deployed as a fuel , energy carrier and for storing energy it is essential that the clean hydrogen partnership establishes structured collaboration with many other horizon europe partnerships , notably for end-use. the clean hydrogen partnership should interact in particular with the zero emission road and waterborne transport , europe’s railway , clean aviation , processes for the planet and clean steel partnerships. for that purpose , a structure should be set up reporting to the governing board in order to ensure the co-operation and synergies between these partnerships in the domain of hydrogen. the clean hydrogen initiative would be the only partnership focused on addressing hydrogen production technologies. collaboration with end-use partnerships should in particular focus on demonstrating the technology and co-defining specifications. ### (51) since hydrogen can be deployed as a fuel , energy carrier and for storing energy it is essential that the renewable hydrogen partnership establishes structured collaboration with many other horizon europe partnerships , notably for end-use. the renewable hydrogen partnership should interact in particular with the zero emission road and waterborne transport , europe’s railway , clean aviation , processes for the planet and clean steel partnerships. for that purpose , a structure should be set up reporting to the governing board in order to ensure the co-operation and synergies between these partnerships in the domain of hydrogen. the renewable hydrogen initiative would be the only partnership focused on addressing renewable hydrogen production technologies. collaboration with end-use partnerships should in particular focus on demonstrating the technology and co-defining specifications.


### (53) the european green deal aims to transform the union into a fair and prosperous society , with a modern , resource-efficient and competitive economy where there are no net emissions of greenhouse gases by 2050 and where economic growth is decoupled from resource use. priority areas include accelerating the shift to sustainable and smart mobility. ### (53) the european green deal aims to transform the union into a fair and prosperous society , with a modern , energy and resource-efficient sustainable economy where there are no net emissions of greenhouse gases by 2050 and where economic growth is decoupled from resource use. priority areas include accelerating the shift to sustainable and smart mobility with the aim to deliver 90% reduction in the transport sectors emissions by 2050.


### (54) the commission communication on a new industrial strategy for europe22 (march 2020) underlines that sustainable and smart mobility industries , such as the rail industry , have both the responsibility and the potential to drive the digital and green transition , support europe’s industrial competitiveness and improve connectivity. therefore road , rail , aviation , and waterborne transport should all contribute to a 90% reduction in transport emissions by 2050. as a matter of priority , a substantial part of the 75% of inland freight carried today by road should shift onto rail and inland waterways. ### (54) the commission communication on a new industrial strategy for europe22 (march 2020) underlines that sustainable and smart mobility industries , such as the rail industry , have both the responsibility and the potential to drive the digital and green transition , support europe’s industrial independence and improve connectivity. therefore road , rail , aviation , and waterborne transport should all contribute to a 90% reduction in transport emissions by 2050. as a matter of priority , a substantial part of the 75% of inland freight carried today by road should shift onto rail and inland waterways.


### (61) in the context of the commission’s priorities of the united nations sustainable development goals , in particular sdg 3 , and the communication towards a comprehensive strategy with africa23 , the union is committed to contribute to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all , to build an even stronger partnership between our two continents and to support the development of research and innovation capacities within africa. the global health edctp3 joint undertaking should address the lack of appropriate diagnostics , treatments and vaccines , among other so-called health technologies , to address infectious diseases , such as hiv , malaria and tuberculosis , but also other poverty related and neglected infectious diseases , that are prevalent in africa , especially in sub-saharan africa. the covid19 pandemic has revealed that with the increased connectivity of different regions in the world , through world trade and tourism , infectious diseases can rapidly spread all over the world. developing health technologies is therefore crucial to limit the spread of infectious diseases , as well as to fight them once they have spread , to protect the health of the citizens in the countries concerned and in the union. in order to achieve a stronger global health leadership than the current edctp2 initiative , the scope of the partnership should be extended to cover response to emerging infectious diseases threats , the increasing problems of antimicrobial resistance and non-communicable diseases co-morbidities. ### (61) in the context of the commission’s priorities of the united nations sustainable development goals , in particular sdg 3 , and the communication towards a comprehensive strategy with africa23 , the union is committed to contribute to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all , to build an even stronger partnership between our two continents and to support the development of research and innovation capacities within africa. the global health edctp3 joint undertaking should address the lack of appropriate diagnostics , treatments and vaccines , among other so-called health technologies , to address infectious diseases , such as hiv , malaria and tuberculosis , but also other poverty related and neglected infectious diseases , that are prevalent in africa , especially in sub-saharan africa. the covid19 pandemic has revealed that with the increased connectivity of different regions in the world , through world trade and tourism , infectious diseases can rapidly spread all over the world. developing health technologies is therefore crucial to limit the spread of infectious diseases , as well as to fight them once they have spread , to protect the health of the citizens , to improve and foster health in the countries concerned and in the union , by supporting health promotion and disease prevention , reducing health inequalities and ensuring equal and full access to health.. in order to achieve a stronger global health leadership than the current edctp2 initiative , the scope of the partnership should be extended to cover response to emerging infectious diseases threats , the increasing problems of antimicrobial resistance and non-communicable diseases co-morbidities.


### (66) in the context of the european commission’s priorities of “an economy that works for people” and “a europe fit for the digital age” , the european industry , including smes , should become greener , more circular and more digital while remaining competitive on the global scale. the commission has emphasized the role of medical devices and digital technologies addressing emerging challenges and the use of e-health services to provide high-quality health care , along with a call for ensuring the supply of affordable medicines to meet the union’s needs , whilst supporting an innovative and world-leading european pharmaceutical industry. the innovative health initiative joint undertaking aims to contribute towards strengthening the competitiveness of the union’s health industry , a cornerstone of the union’s knowledge-based economy , to an increased economic activity in the development of health technologies , notably of integrated health solutions , and thus serve as a tool for increasing technological sovereignty and fostering the digital transformation of our societies. such political priorities can be achieved by bringing together the crucial players: the academia , companies of various sizes and end-users of health innovations , under the umbrella of a public-private partnership in health research and innovation. the innovative health initiative joint undertaking should help reach the objectives of the ‘europe’s beating cancer plan’24 and the ‘european one health action plan against antimicrobial resistance’25 . the innovative health initiative joint undertaking should be aligned with the new industrial strategy for europe26 , the pharmaceutical strategy for europe27 and the sme strategy for a sustainable and digital europe28 . ### (66) in the context of the european commission’s priorities of “an economy that works for people” and “a europe fit for the digital age” , the european industry , including smes , should become greener and more social. the commission has emphasized the role of medical devices and digital technologies addressing emerging challenges and the use of e-health services to provide high-quality health care , along with a call for ensuring the supply of affordable medicines to meet the union’s needs , whilst supporting an innovative and world-leading european pharmaceutical industry. the innovative health initiative joint undertaking should help reach the objectives of the ‘europe’s beating cancer plan’24 and the ‘european one health action plan against antimicrobial resistance’25 . the innovative health initiative joint undertaking should be aligned with the new industrial strategy for europe26 , the pharmaceutical strategy for europe27 and the sme strategy for a sustainable and digital europe28 .


### (67) the innovative health initiative joint undertaking builds on the experience gained from the innovative medicine initiative 2 joint undertaking (imi2 joint undertaking) including the work done by this initiative to combat the covid-19 pandemic. in line with the recommendations of the interim evaluation of imi2 joint undertaking29 , a successor initiative needs to “enable the active engagement of other industry sectors with the pharmaceutical industry to capitalise on their expertise in the development of new health care interventions”. therefore , the industry sectors need to cover the biopharmaceutical , biotechnology and medical technology sectors , including companies active in the digital area. the scope of the initiative should cover prevention , diagnosis , treatment and disease management and must be established taking due account of the high burden for patients and/or society due to the severity of the disease and/or the number of people affected , as well as the high economic impact of the disease for patients and for health care systems. the funded actions must respond to the union public health needs , supporting the development of future health innovations that are safe , people-centred , effective , cost-effective and affordable for patients and for health care systems. ### (67) the innovative health initiative joint undertaking builds on the experience gained from the innovative medicine initiative 2 joint undertaking (imi2 joint undertaking) including the work done by this initiative to combat the covid-19 pandemic. in line with the recommendations of the interim evaluation of imi2 joint undertaking29 , a successor initiative needs to “enable the active engagement of other industry sectors with the pharmaceutical industry to capitalise on their expertise in the development of new health care interventions”. therefore , the industry sectors need to cover the biopharmaceutical , biotechnology and medical technology sectors , including companies active in the digital area. the scope of the initiative should cover prevention , diagnosis , treatment and disease management and must be established taking due account of the high burden for patients and/or society due to the severity of the disease and/or the number of people affected , as well as the high economic impact of the disease for patients and for health care services and systems. the funded actions must respond to the union public health needs , supporting the development of future health innovations that are safe , people-centred , effective , cost-effective and affordable for patients and for health care services in order to improve the health of the population and health equality.


### (72) the key digital technologies joint undertaking should address clearly defined topics that would enable european industries at large to design , manufacture and use the most innovative technologies in electronic components and systems. structured and coordinated financial support at european level is necessary to help research teams and european industries maintain their current strengths at the leading edge in a highly competitive international context and close the gap in technologies that are critical for a digital transformation in europe that reflects core union values including privacy and trust , security and safety. collaboration among stakeholders of the ecosystem , representing all segments of the value chains , is essential for the development of new technologies and the fast market uptake of innovation. openness and flexibility to integrate relevant stakeholders , including in particular smes , in emerging or adjacent areas of technology , or in both , is also vital. ### (72) the key digital technologies joint undertaking should address clearly defined topics that would enable european industries at large to design , manufacture and use the most innovative technologies in electronic components and systems. structured and coordinated financial support at european level is necessary to help research teams and european industries maintain their current strengths at the leading edge in a highly competitive international context and close the gap in technologies that are critical for a digital transformation in europe that reflects core union values including privacy , data protection , trust , and safety. collaboration among stakeholders of the ecosystem , representing all segments of the value chains , is essential for the development of new technologies and the fast market uptake of innovation. openness , transparency and flexibility to integrate relevant stakeholders , including in particular smes , in emerging or adjacent areas of technology , or in both , is also vital.


### (81) the single european sky atm research 3 joint undertaking should build on the experience of the sesar joint undertaking and continue its coordination role for atm research in the union. the main objectives of the single european sky atm research 3 joint undertaking should be to strengthen and further integrate the research and innovation capacity in europe , helping to accelerate the digitalisation of the sector and rendering it more resilient and scalable to fluctuations in traffic. it should strengthen , through innovation , the competitiveness of manned and unmanned air transport and atm services , to support economic recovery and growth. it should develop and accelerate the market uptake of innovative solutions to establish the single european sky airspace as the most efficient and environmentally friendly sky to fly in the world. ### (81) the single european sky atm research 3 joint undertaking should build on the experience of the sesar joint undertaking and continue its coordination role for atm research in the union. the main objectives of the single european sky atm research 3 joint undertaking should be to strengthen and further integrate the research and innovation capacity in europe , helping to accelerate the digitalisation of the sector and rendering it more resilient and scalable to fluctuations in traffic. it should strengthen , through innovation , the competitiveness of manned and unmanned air transport and atm services , to support economic recovery and social growth , in environmentally friendly manner. it should develop and accelerate the market uptake of innovative solutions to establish the single european sky airspace as the most efficient and environmentally friendly sky to fly in the world.


### (89) the smart networks and services joint undertaking is designed to address policy issues in the field of digital infrastructure and to extend the technology scope of research and innovation for 6g networks. it should , with close involvement of member states , strengthen the response to union policy and social needs regarding network energy efficiency , cybersecurity , technological sovereignty , privacy and ethics and will extend the research and innovation scope from networks to cloud based service provisioning as well as components and devices enabling services for citizens and a broad range of economic sectors such as health care , transport , manufacturing and media. ### (89) the smart networks and services joint undertaking is designed to address policy issues in the field of digital infrastructure and to extend the technology scope of research and innovation for 6g networks. it should , with close involvement of member states , strengthen the response to union policy and social needs regarding network energy efficiency , cybersecurity , technological sovereignty , privacy and ethics and will extend the research and innovation scope from networks to cloud based service provisioning as well as components and devices enabling services for citizens and a broad range of economic and social sectors such as health care , transport , manufacturing and media.


### the clean hydrogen joint undertaking; ### the renewable hydrogen joint undertaking;


### 1. the joint undertakings referred to in article 3 shall contribute to the general objectives of the horizon europe regulation as set out in [article 3] thereof. ### 1. the joint undertakings referred to in article 3 shall contribute to the general objectives of the horizon europe regulation as set out in [article 3] in the implementation of the horizon europe regulation , the joint undertakings shall respect the principles of open science set out in[articles 10 , 35] of that regulation , requiring beneficiaries to provide open access to research results and data following the principle “as open as possible , as closed as necessary”. the joint undertakings shall lay out strict rules for derogations from these open access requirements. costs related to open access including data management plans shall be eligible for reimbursement as further stipulated in the grant agreement.


### 2. the joint undertakings shall , through the involvement and commitment of partners in designing and implementing a programme of research and innovation activities , deliver on the following general objectives: ### 2. the joint undertakings shall , deliver on the following general objectives:


### strengthening and integrating the union’s scientific and technological capacities to support the creation and diffusion of high-quality new knowledge notably with a view to deliver on global challenges , securing union competitiveness , sustainability and contributing to the a reinforced european research area; ### strengthening and integrating the union’s scientific and technological capacities to support the creation and diffusion of high-quality new knowledge notably with a view to deliver on global societal challenges , securing union resilience , sustainability and contributing to the a reinforced european research area;


### securing sustainability-driven global leadership of union value chains and union open strategic autonomy in key technologies and industries in line with the industrial strategy for europe; ### supporting sustainability-driven global leadership of union value chains in key technologies and industries in line with the european green deal.


### develop and accelerate the uptake of innovative solutions throughout the union addressing climate , environmental , health and other global societal challenges contributing to union strategic priorities , in particular to reach the united nations sustainable development goals and achieve climate neutrality in the union by 2050. ### develop and accelerate the uptake of innovative solutions throughout the union addressing climate , environmental , health , digital and other global societal challenges contributing to union strategic priorities , in particular to reach the united nations sustainable development goals and achieve climate neutrality in the union by 2050 at latest.


### accelerate the social , ecological and economic transitions in areas and sectors of strategic importance for union priorities , in particular to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 in accordance with the targets set in line with the european green deal; ### accelerate the social , ecological and economic transitions in areas and sectors of strategic importance for union priorities , in particular to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 in accordance with the climate and energy targets set in line with the european green deal;


### deliver environmental and productivity improvements in new products and services thanks to a harnessing of union capabilities and resources. ### deliver environmental , sustainability , circularity and productivity improvements in new products and services thanks to a harnessing of union capabilities and resources.


### reinforce the link between research , innovation , and where appropriate , education and other policies , including complementarities with national and regional and union research and innovation policies and activities; ### reinforce the link between research , innovation , and education , including complementarities with national and regional and union research and innovation policies and activities and the sustainable goals and paris agreement;


### increase public awareness , acceptance , demand and uptake of new solutions by involving citizens and end-users in co-design and co-creation processes; ### increase public awareness of new solutions by involving citizens and end-users in co-design and co-creation processes;


### encourage exploitation of research and innovation results and actively disseminate and exploit results , in particular for leveraging private investments and policy development; ### encourage the development and application of research and innovation results and their active dissemination.


### provide financial support , mainly in the form of grants , to research and innovation indirect actions , selected following open and competitive calls , unless otherwise specified in their work programme; ### provide financial support , mainly in the form of grants , to research and innovation indirect actions , selected following open , fair and transparent calls , unless otherwise specified in their work programme;


### liaise with the most extensive range of stakeholders including , but not limited to , decentralised agencies , research organisations and universities , end users and public authorities , in particular for the purpose of defining the priorities and activities of each initiative as well as to ensure inclusiveness; ### liaise with the most extensive range of stakeholders including , but not limited to , decentralised agencies , research organisations and universities , civil society organisations ,end users and public authorities , in particular for the purpose of defining the priorities and activities of each initiative as well as to ensure inclusiveness;


### support the commission in the development and implementation of a robust science-based technical screening criteria pursuant to article 3 of the regulation (eu) 2020/852 on sustainable investments , by monitoring , and assessing its implementation within the economic sector they operate , in order to provide ‘ad hoc’ feedback to policy making , when needed; ### deleted


### consider the ‘do no significant harm principle’ pursuant to article 17 of regulation (eu) 2020/852 and take into account the provisions of that regulation to improve access to sustainable finance , where relevant; ### apply the ‘do no significant harm principle’ pursuant to article 17 of regulation (eu) 2020/852 and take into account the provisions of that regulation to improve access to sustainable finance , where relevant;


### 1. joint undertakings may launch an open call for expression of interest in view of selecting associated members. the call for expression of interest shall set out the key capacities needed in order to achieve the objectives of the joint undertaking. all calls shall be published on the joint undertaking’s website and communicated through all appropriate channels , including , where applicable , the states’ representatives group , in order to ensure the widest possible participation in the interest of achieving the objectives of the joint undertaking. ### 1. joint undertakings may launch an open , fair and transparent call for expression of interest in view of selecting associated members , while ensuring the geographical balance. the call for expression of interest shall set out the key capacities needed in order to achieve the objectives of the joint undertaking. all calls shall be published on the joint undertaking’s website and communicated through all appropriate channels , including , where applicable , the states’ representatives group , in order to ensure the widest possible participation in the interest of achieving the objectives of the joint undertaking.


### 1. any candidate contributing partner as defined in article 2(7) shall submit a letter of endorsement to the governing board. the letter of endorsement shall specify the scope of the partnership in terms of subject matter , activities and duration and detail the applicant’s contribution to the joint undertaking. ### 1. any candidate contributing partner as defined in article 2(7) shall submit a letter of endorsement to the governing board. the letter of endorsement shall specify the scope of the partnership in terms of subject matter , activities and duration and detail the applicant’s contribution to the joint undertaking and shall be made public.


### 2. the governing board shall assess the letter of endorsement and shall approve or reject the application. ### 2. the governing board shall assess the letter of endorsement and shall approve or reject the application taking into account the advice of scientific advisory body.


### the research programme shall provide support for collaborative research in the coal and steel sectors. the research programme shall also provide support for clean steel breakthrough technologies leading to near zero-carbon steel making projects and research projects for managing the just transition of formerly operating coal mines or coal mines in the process of closure and related infrastructure in line with the just transition mechanism and in compliance with article 4(2) of council decision 2003/76/ec. the research programme shall be consistent with the political , scientific , and technological objectives of the union , and shall complement the activities carried out in the member states and within the existing eu research programmes , in particular the framework programme for research , technological development and demonstration activities (hereinafter referred to as ‘the research framework programme’).; ### the research programme shall provide support for collaborative research in the coal and steel sectors. the research programme shall also provide support for clean steel breakthrough technologies leading to near zero-carbon steel making projects , as well as research projects for managing the just transition of formerly operating coal mines or coal mines in the process of closure and related infrastructure , in line with the just transition mechanism. and in compliance with article 4(2) of council decision 2003/76/ec1a. the research programme shall be consistent with the political , social , economic , scientific , and technological objectives of the union , and shall complement the activities carried out in the member states and within the existing eu research programmes , in particular the horizon europe – the framework programme for research and innovation (hereinafter referred to as ‘the research framework programme’).;


### development and testing of carbon dioxide capture , use and storage technologies; ### deleted


### 1. research projects shall seek to minimise the impacts of coal mines in the process of closure and of formerly operating mines on the atmosphere , water and soils. research shall be geared towards preserving and restoring natural resources for future generations and minimising the environmental impact of coal mines in the process of closure and in formerly operating mines. ### 1. research projects shall seek to minimise the impacts of coal mines in the process of closure and of formerly operating mines on the atmosphere , water and soils. research shall be geared towards preserving and restoring natural resources for future generations and minimising the environmental impact of coal mines in the process of closure and of formerly operating mines. those projects shall not substitute the obligations by the companies to restore mine sites , according to "polluter pays" principle.


### (2) in particular , european partnerships in the horizon europe pillar ’global challenges and european industrial competitiveness’ are expected to play an important role in achieving the strategic objectives of accelerating the transitions towards sustainable development goals and a green and digital europe and in contributing to recovery.10 european partnerships are key to address complex cross-border challenges that require an integrated approach. they make it possible to address the transformational , systematic and market failures by bringing together a broad range of players across the value chains and industrial ecosystems to work towards a common vision and translating it into concrete roadmaps and a coordinated implementation of activities. furthermore , they allow concentrating efforts and resources on common priorities to solve the complex challenges ahead. ### (2) in particular , european partnerships in the horizon europe pillar ’global challenges and european industrial competitiveness’ are expected to play an important role in achieving the strategic objectives of accelerating the transitions towards sustainable development goals and a green and digital europe and in contributing to recovery , promoting the energy efficiency first principle and the use of renewable energy sources and by tackling global societal changes , including the sustainable development goals and commitments under paris agreement.10 european partnerships are key to address complex cross-border challenges that require an integrated approach. they make it possible to address the transformational , systematic and market failures by bringing together a broad range of players across the value chains and industrial ecosystems to work towards a common vision and translating it into concrete roadmaps and a coordinated implementation of activities. furthermore , they allow concentrating efforts and resources on common priorities to solve the complex challenges ahead.


### (3) to deliver on priorities and impact , european partnerships should be developed through a broad involvement of relevant stakeholders across europe , including industry , research organisations , bodies with a public service mission at local , regional , national or international level , and civil society organisations such as foundations that support and/or carry out research and innovation. these european partnerships should also be one of the measures to strengthen cooperation between private and/or public sector partners at the international level , including by joining up research and innovation programmes and cross-border investment in research and innovation , bringing mutual benefits to people and businesses. ### (3) to deliver on priorities and impact , european partnerships should be developed through a broad involvement of relevant stakeholders , social partners across europe , including industry , research organisations , bodies with a public service mission at local , regional , national or international level , and civil society organisations such as foundations that support and/or carry out research and innovation. these european partnerships should also be one of the measures to strengthen cooperation and synergies between private and/or public sector partners at the international level , including by joining up research and innovation programmes and cross-border investment in research and innovation , bringing mutual benefits to people and businesses.


### (10) the metrology partnership , aligned with the political priorities of the commission (including the european green deal , an economy that works for people , and a europe fit for the digital age) should be implemented over a period of ten years (from 2021 to 2031). the programme should include new activities compared to the empir initiative under horizon 2020 , and in particular , the development of european metrology networks , which will respond to pressing societal challenges and metrology needs from emerging technologies. the metrology capacity provided through these networks should be equivalent and comparable to the other world leading metrology systems , demonstrating world class excellence. calls for proposals under the metrology partnership should be launched during the implementation of horizon europe. ### (10) the metrology partnership , aligned with the political priorities of the commission (including the european green deal , an economy that works for people , and a europe fit for the digital age) should be implemented over a period of ten years (from 2021 to 2031). the programme should include new activities compared to the empir initiative under horizon 2020 , and in particular , the development of european metrology networks , which will respond to pressing societal and environmental challenges and metrology needs from emerging technologies. the metrology capacity provided through these networks should be equivalent and comparable to the other world leading metrology systems , demonstrating world class excellence. open and transparent calls for proposals under the metrology partnership should be launched during the implementation of horizon europe.


### (13) in accordance with article xx of regulation (eu) [xxx] [horizon europe regulation] , the general objective of horizon europe is to deliver scientific , economic and societal impact from the union’s investments in research and innovation so as to strengthen the scientific and technological bases of the union and foster its competitiveness , including in its industry , deliver on the union strategic priorities , and contribute to tackling global challenges , including the sustainable development goals by following the principles of agenda 2030 for sustainable development and the paris agreement under the united nations framework convention on climate change. ### (13) in accordance with article xx of regulation (eu) [xxx] [horizon europe regulation] , the general objective of horizon europe is to deliver scientific , economic , ecological and societal impact from the union’s investments in research and innovation so as to strengthen the scientific and technological bases of the union and foster its competitiveness , including in its industry , deliver on the union strategic priorities , and contribute to tackling global challenges , including the sustainable development goals by following the principles of agenda 2030 for sustainable development and the paris agreement under the united nations framework convention on climate change.


### (15) in order to achieve the objectives of the metrology partnership , euramet should provide financial support mainly in the form of grants to participants in actions selected at the level of euramet. those actions should be selected following calls for proposals under the responsibility of euramet. the ranking list should be binding for the selection of proposals and the allocation of funding from the union’s financial contribution and from the financial contributions from participating states for the research projects and related activities. for the activities funded by the participating states’ contributions to european metrology networks , the actions funded should also be under the responsibility of euramet. ### (15) in order to achieve the objectives of the metrology partnership , euramet should provide financial support mainly in the form of grants to participants in actions selected at the level of euramet. those actions should be selected following open and transparent calls for proposals under the responsibility of euramet. the ranking list should be binding for the selection of proposals and the allocation of funding from the union’s financial contribution and from the financial contributions from participating states for the research projects and related activities. for the activities funded by the participating states’ contributions to european metrology networks , the actions funded should also be under the responsibility of euramet.


### (18) in order to ensure transparency and accessibility for the programme , calls for proposals by the metrology partnership should also be published on the single portal for participants as well as through other horizon europe electronic means of dissemination managed by the commission. ### (18) in order to ensure openess and transparency and accessibility for the programme , calls for proposals by the metrology partnership should also be published on the single portal for participants as well as through other horizon europe electronic means of dissemination managed by the commission.


### to increase the impact of metrology on societal challenges in relation to the implementation of policies , standards and regulations to make them fit for purpose. ### to increase the impact of metrology on societal and environmental challenges in relation to the implementation of policies , standards and regulations to make them fit for purpose.


### to contribute fully and effectively , by 2030 , to the design and implementation of specific standards and regulations that underpin public policies addressing societal challenges. ### to contribute fully and effectively , by 2030 , to the design and implementation of specific standards and regulations that underpin public policies addressing societal and environmental challenges by promoting skills , lifelong learning and human resources.


### indirect actions within the meaning of article 2 , point 25 of regulation (eu) [xxx] [horizon europe regulation] and that in accordance with article 7 of this decision are funded by euramet mainly in the form of grants following transnational open and competitive calls for proposals organised by euramet , and that include: ### indirect actions within the meaning of article 2 , point 25 of regulation (eu) [xxx] [horizon europe regulation] and that in accordance with article 7 of this decision are funded by euramet mainly in the form of grants following transnational open , transparent and competitive calls for proposals organised by euramet , and that include:


### — (ii) metrology research to provide solutions for societal challenges focusing on contributions to energy , health and climate and to develop projects in specific european metrology networks addressing these challenges; ### — (ii) metrology research to provide solutions for societal , environmental challenges focusing on contributions to sustainable energy technologies , health digital techonologies and climate and to develop projects in specific european metrology networks addressing these challenges;


### — (iv) pre-normative and co-normative metrology research and development in support of policy implementation , regulations and accelerate faster marketing of market introduction of innovative products and services; ### — (iv) pre-normative and co-normative metrology research and development in support of policy implementation , regulations and accelerate faster marketing of market introduction of sustainable innovative products and services;


### 2. the evaluations shall examine how the metrology partnership fulfils its mission and objectives , cover all its activities and evaluate its european added value , effectiveness , efficiency , including its openness and transparency , the relevance of the activities pursued and their coherence and/or complementarity with relevant regional , national and union policies , including synergies with other parts of horizon europe (such as missions , clusters or thematic/specific programmes). the evaluations shall take into account the views of stakeholders , at both european and national level and shall , where relevant , also include an assessment of the long-term scientific , societal , economic , technological impacts of the preceding initiatives. they shall include , where relevant , an assessment of the most effective policy intervention mode for any future action , as well as the relevance and coherence of any possible renewal of the metrology partnership , given the overall policy priorities and the research and innovation support landscape , including the positioning against other initiatives supported through the horizon europe framework programme. ### 2. the evaluations shall examine how the metrology partnership fulfils its mission and objectives , cover all its activities and evaluate its european added value , effectiveness , efficiency , including its openness and transparency , the relevance of the activities pursued and their coherence and/or complementarity with relevant regional , national and union policies , including synergies with other parts of horizon europe (such as missions , clusters or thematic/specific programmes). the evaluations shall take into account the views of stakeholders , at both european and national level and shall , where relevant , also include an assessment of the long-term scientific , societal , economic , environmental , technological impacts of the preceding initiatives. they shall include , where relevant , an assessment of the most effective policy intervention mode for any future action , as well as the relevance and coherence of any possible renewal of the metrology partnership , given the overall policy priorities and the research and innovation support landscape , including the positioning against other initiatives supported through the horizon europe framework programme.


### (5) should the need arise to exercise its rights in implementing and enforcing the withdrawal agreement and the trade and cooperation agreement , the union should be in a position to make appropriate use of the instruments available to it swiftly and in a proportionate , effective and flexible manner , while fully involving member states. the union should also be able to take appropriate measures if effective recourse to binding dispute settlement under those agreements is not possible because the united kingdom does not cooperate in making such recourse possible. it is therefore necessary to lay down rules and procedures governing the adoption of those measures. ### (5) should the need arise to exercise its rights in implementing and enforcing the withdrawal agreement and the trade and cooperation agreement , the union should be in a position to make appropriate use of the instruments available to it swiftly and in a proportionate , effective and flexible manner , while fully involving member states and keeping the members of the european parliament fully involved. the union should also be able to take appropriate measures if effective recourse to binding dispute settlement under those agreements is not possible because the united kingdom does not cooperate in making such recourse possible. it is therefore necessary to lay down rules and procedures governing the adoption of those measures.


### (1) as recognised in the preamble to the 2014 protocol to convention no. 29 on forced labour (‘ilo convention no. 29’) of the international labour organization (‘ilo’) , forced labour constitutes a serious violation of human dignity and fundamental human rights. the ilo declared the elimination of all forms of forced or compulsory labour as a principle concerning the fundamental rights. the ilo classifies ilo convention no. 29 , the 2014 protocol to convention no. 29 and the ilo convention no.105 on the abolition of forced labour (‘ilo convention no.105’) as fundamental ilo conventions16. forced labour covers a wide variety of coercive labour practices where work or service is exacted from persons that havenot offered it themselvesvoluntarily.17 ### (1) as recognised in the preamble to the 2014 protocol to convention no. 29 on forced labour (‘ilo convention no. 29’) of the international labour organization (‘ilo) , forced labour constitutes a serious violation of human dignity and fundamental human rights and stands in the way of the achievement of decent work for all. the ilo declared the elimination of all forms of forced or compulsory labour as a principle concerning the fundamental rights. the ilo classifies ilo convention no. 29 , the 2014 protocol to convention no. 29 supported by the forced labour (supplementary measures) recommendation (no. 203) and the ilo convention no.105 on the abolition of forced labour (‘ilo convention no.105’) as fundamental ilo conventions16. forced labour covers a wide variety of coercive labour practices where work or service is exacted from any person under the threat of a penalty and for which the person hasnot offered himself or herselfvoluntarily.17the european court of human rights has repeatedly found that , under article 4 of the european convention on human rights , initial consent and voluntariness become null and void if there is an abuse of position of vulnerability.


### (2) the use of forced labour is widespread in the world. it is estimated that about 27.6 million people were in forced labour in 2021.18vulnerable and marginalised groups in a society are particularly susceptible to be pressured into performing forced labour. even when it is not state imposed , forced labour is often a consequence of a lack of good governance of certain economic operators. ### (2) the use of forced labour is widespread in the world. it is estimated that about 27.6 million people , including 3.3 million children , were in forced labour in 2021.18vulnerable and marginalised groups in a society , such as women , children , migrants (in particular if they are undocumented or with a precarious status or in the informal economy) , ethnic minorities , lower castes , indigenous and tribal peoples ,are particularly susceptible to be pressured into performing forced labour. even when it is not state imposed , forced labour is often a consequence of a lack of good governance of certain economic operators of root causes such as poverty , discrimination , weak governance and democracy , lack of welfare and decent employment conditions and opportunities. in particular , unfair purchasing practices by economic operators can lead to labour rights violations down the supply chain and ultimately , to forced labour.


### (3) the eradication of forced labour is a priority for the union. respect for human dignity and the universality and indivisibility of human rights are firmly enshrined in article 21 of the treaty on european union. article 5(2) of the charter of fundamental rights of the european union and article 4 of the european convention on human rights provide that no one is to be required to perform forced or compulsory labour. the european court of human rights has repeatedly interpreted article 4 of the european convention on human rights as requiring member states to penalise and effectively prosecute any act maintaining a person in the situations described set out in article 4 of the european convention on human rights.19 ### (3) the eradication of forced labour is a priority for the union. respect for human dignity and the universality and indivisibility of human rights are firmly enshrined in article 21 of the treaty on european union. article 5(2) of the charter of fundamental rights of the european union explicitly prohibits slavery , servitude , forced or compulsory labour and trafficking in human beings , and article 4 of the european convention on human rights provides that no one is to be required to perform forced or compulsory labour. the european court of human rights has repeatedly interpreted article 4 of the european convention on human rights as requiring member states to penalise and effectively prosecute any act maintaining a person in the situations described set out in article 4 of the european convention on human rights.19


### (5) through its policies and legislative initiatives the union seeks to eradicate the use of forced labour. the union promotes due diligence in accordance with international guidelines and principles established by international organisations , including the ilo , the organisation for economic co-operation and development (hereinafter “oecd”) and the united nations (hereinafter “un”) , to ensure that forced labour does not find a place in the value chains of undertakings established in the union. ### (5) through its policies and legislative initiatives , the union seeks to eradicate (the use of) forced labour and promote decent work and labour rights worldwide. the union promotes due diligence in accordance with international guidelines and principles established by international organisations , including the ilo , the organisation for economic co-operation and development (hereinafter “oecd”) and the united nations (hereinafter “un”) , to ensure that forced labour does not find a place in the value chains of undertakings established or placing goods in the union.


### (6) union trade policy supports the fight against forced labour in both unilateral and bilateral trade relationships. the trade and sustainable development chapters of union trade agreements contain a commitment to ratify and effectively implement the fundamental ilo conventions , which include ilo convention no. 29 and ilo convention no. 105. moreover , unilateral trade preferences under the union’s general scheme of preferences could be withdrawn for serious and systematic violations of ilo convention no. 29 and ilo convention no. 105. ### (6) union trade policy supports the fight against forced labour in both unilateral and bilateral trade relationships. the trade and sustainable development chapters of union trade agreements contain a commitment to ratify and effectively implement the all fundamental ilo conventions , which include ilo convention no. 29 and ilo convention no. 105. moreover , unilateral trade preferences under the union’s general scheme of preferences could be withdrawn for serious and systematic violations of ilo convention no. 29 and ilo convention no. 105.


### (7) the anti-trafficking directive (directive 2011/36/eu) of the european parliament and of the council21(the anti-trafficking directive) harmonises the definition of trafficking in human beings , including forced labour or services , and establishes minimum penalties. any rules laid down concerning the prohibition of placing and making available on the union market domestic or imported products made with forced labour , or exporting such products , and the obligation to ensure that such products are withdrawn from the union market (‘the prohibition’) , should be without prejudice to that directive , and in particular to the competence of law enforcement and judicial authorities to investigate and prosecute offences on trafficking in human beings , including labour exploitation. ### (7) the anti-trafficking directive (directive 2011/36/eu) of the european parliament and of the council21(the anti-trafficking directive) harmonises the definition of trafficking in human beings , including forced labour or services , and establishes minimum penalties. any rules laid down concerning the prohibition of placing and making available on the union market domestic or imported products made with forced labour , or exporting such products , and the obligation to ensure that such products are withdrawn from the union market (‘the prohibition’) , should be without prejudice to that directive , and in particular to the competence of law enforcement and judicial authorities to investigate and prosecute offences on trafficking in human beings , including labour exploitation , as well as preventing and combating trafficking in human beings and protecting its victims , particularly by strengthening victims’ rights in the areas of non-punishment , assistance and support , safe reporting , complaint mechanisms and remedies including compensation.


### (8) [in particular , directive 20xx/xx/eu on corporate sustainability due diligence sets out horizontal due diligence obligations to identify , prevent , mitigate and account for actual and potential adverse impacts on human rights , including forced labour , and the environment in the company’s own operations , its subsidiaries and in its value chains , in accordance with international human and labour rights standards and environmental conventions. those obligations apply to large companies over a certain threshold in terms of number of employees and net turnover , and to smaller companies in high-impact sectors over a certain threshold in terms of number of employees and net turnover.22] ### (8) [in particular , directive 20xx/xx/eu on corporate sustainability due diligence sets out horizontal due diligence obligations to identify , prevent , mitigate and account for actual and potential adverse impacts on human rights , including forced labour , and the environment in the company’s own operations , its subsidiaries and in its value chains , in accordance with international human and labour rights standards and environmental conventions.


### (12) as recognised in the commission’s communication on decent work worldwide29 , notwithstanding the current policies and legislative framework , further action is needed to achieve the objectives of eliminating forced-labour products from the union market and , hence , further contributing to the fight against forced labour worldwide. ### (12) as recognised in the commission’s communication on decent work worldwide29 , notwithstanding the current policies and legislative framework , further action is needed to achieve the objectives of eliminating forced-labour products from the union market and , hence , further contributing to the fight against forced labour worldwide. through the eu decent work agenda the eu commits to address forced labour and to promote decent work and labour rights including in global supply chains.as stated in the commission’s communication , the eradication of forced labour can only be achieved if other objectives of decent work , such as sustainable business conduct , social dialogue , freedom of association , collective bargaining and social protection , are promoted.


### (16) in order to ensure the effectiveness of the prohibition , such prohibition should apply to products for which forced labour has been used at any stage of their production , manufacture , harvest and extraction , including working or processing related to the products. the prohibition should apply to all products , of any type , including their components , and should apply to products regardless of the sector , the origin , whether they are domestic or imported , or placed or made available on the union market or exported. ### (16) in order to ensure the effectiveness of the prohibition , such prohibition should apply to products for which forced labour has been used at any stage of their production , manufacture , harvest and extraction , transport or storage , including working or processing related to the products. the prohibition should apply to all products , of any type , including their components , and should apply to products regardless of the sector , the origin , whether they are domestic or imported , or placed or made available on the union market or exported.


### (18) micro , small and medium-sized enterprises (’smes’) can have limited resources and ability to ensure that the products they place or make available on the union market are free from forced labour. the commission should therefore issue guidelines on due diligence in relation to forced labour , which should take into account also the size and economic resources of economic operators. in addition , the commission should issue guidelines on forced-labour risk indicators and on publicly available information in order to help smes , as well as other economic operators , to comply with the requirements of the prohibition. ### (18) micro , small and medium-sized enterprises (’smes’) can have limited resources and ability to ensure that the products they place or make available on the union market are free from forced labour. the commission should therefore issue guidelines on due diligence in relation to forced labour. in addition , the commission should issue guidelines on forced-labour risk indicators and on publicly available information in order to help smes , as well as other economic operators , to comply with the requirements of the prohibition.


### (20) in order to increase the effectiveness of the prohibition , competent authorities should grant reasonable time to economic operators to identify , mitigate , prevent and bring to an end the risk of forced labour. ### deleted


### (21) when identifying potential violations of the prohibition , the competent authorities should follow a risk-based approach and assess all information available to them. competent authorities should initiate an investigation where , based on their assessment of all available information , they establish that there is a substantiated concern of a violation of the prohibition. ### (21) when identifying potential violations of the prohibition , the commission and competent authorities should follow a risk-based approach and assess all information available to them. the commission and competent authorities should initiate an investigation where , based on their assessment of all available information , they establish that there is a reasonable suspicion of a violation of the prohibition.


### (22) before initiating an investigation , competent authorities should request from the economic operators under assessment information on actions taken to mitigate , prevent or bring to an end risks of forced labour in their operations and value chains with respect to the products under assessment. carrying out such due diligence in relation to forced labour should help the economic operator to be at a lower risk of having forced labour in its operations and value chains. appropriate due diligence means that forced labour issues in the value chain have been identified and addressed in accordance with relevant union legislation and international standards. that implies that where the competent authority considers that there is no substantiated concern of a violation of the prohibition , for instance due to , but not limited to the applicable legislation , guidelines , recommendations or any other due diligence in relation to forced labour being applied in a way that mitigates , prevents and brings to an end the risk of forced labour , no investigation should be initiated. ### (22) during an investigation , competent authorities may request from the economic operators under assessment information on actions taken to mitigate , prevent , remediate and or bring to an end risks of forced labour in their operations and value chains with respect to the products under assessment. carrying out such due diligence in relation to forced labour should help the economic operator to be at a lower risk of having forced labour in its operations and value chains. appropriate due diligence means that forced labour issues in the value chain have been identified and addressed in accordance with relevant union legislation and international standards.


### (23) in order to ensure cooperation among competent authorities designated under this and other relevant legislation and in order to ensure consistency in their actions and decisions , competent authorities designated under this regulation should request information from other relevant authorities , where necessary , on whether economic operators under assessment are subject to and carry out due diligence in relation to forced labour in accordance with applicable union legislation or member states legislation setting out due diligence and transparency requirements with respect to forced labour. ### (23) in order to ensure cooperation among the commission and competent authorities designated under this and other relevant legislation and in order to ensure consistency in their actions and decisions , competent authorities designated under this regulation should request information from other relevant authorities , where necessary , on whether economic operators under assessment are subject to and carry out due diligence in relation to forced labour in accordance with applicable union legislation or member states legislation setting out due diligence and transparency requirements with respect to forced labour.


### (24) during the preliminary phase of investigation , competent authorities should focus on the economic operators involved in the steps of the value chain where there is a higher risk of forced labour with respect to the products under investigation , also taking into account their size and economic resources , the quantity of products concerned and the scale of the suspected forced labour. ### (24) during the preliminary phase of investigation , the commission and competent authorities should investigate the economic operators involved in all steps with respect to the products under investigation , also taking into account their policies and practices (in relation to purchasing practices in particular) , the quantity of products concerned and the scale of the suspected forced labour.


### (25) competent authorities , when requesting information during the investigation , should prioritise to the extent possible and consistent with the effective conduct of the investigation the economic operators under investigation that are involved in the steps of the value chain as close as possible to where the likely risk of forced labour occurs and take into account the size and economic resources of the economic operators , the quantity of products concerned , as well as the scale of suspected forced labour. ### (25) competent authorities , when requesting information during the investigation , should identify to the extent possible and consistent with the effective conduct of the investigation the responsibilities of all the economic operators under investigation that are involved in the steps of the value chain , the quantity of products concerned , as well as the scale of suspected forced labour.


### (26) competent authorities should bear the burden of establishing that forced labour has been used at any stage of production , manufacture , harvest or extraction of a product , including working or processing related to the product on the basis of all information and evidence gathered during the investigation , including its preliminary phase. to ensure their right to due process , economic operators should have the opportunity to provide information in their defence to the competent authorities throughout the investigation. ### (26) economic operators should bear the burden of proving that forced labour has not been used at any stage of production , manufacture , harvest or extraction of a product , transport and storage including working or processing related to the product on the basis of all information and evidence gathered during the investigation , including its preliminary phase.


### (27) competent authorities that establish that economic operators violated the prohibition , should without delay prohibit the placing and making available of such products on the union market and their export from the union , and require the economic operators that have been investigated to withdraw the relevant products already made available from the union market and have them destroyed , rendered inoperable , or otherwise disposed of in accordance with national law consistent with union law , including union legislation on waste management. ### (27) the commission and competent authorities that establish that economic operators violated the prohibition , should without delay prohibit the placing and making available of such products on the union market and their export from the union , and relevant products should be seized. the cost of their storage should be borne by the economic operator and the products disposed of in accordance with national law consistent with union law , including destined to social re-use or sold and the proceeds shall be directed to the victims.


### (28) in that decision , competent authorities should state the findings of the investigation , and the information underpinning the findings , and set a reasonable time within which the economic operators should comply with the decision , as well as information allowing for the identification of the product to which the decision applies. the commission should be empowered to adopt the implementing acts necessary to specify the details about the information to be contained in such decisions. ### (28) in that decision , competent authorities should state the findings of the investigation , and the information underpinning the findings , and set a reasonable time within which the economic operators should comply with the decision , as well as information allowing for the identification of the product to which the decision applies. the commission should be empowered to adopt the implementing acts necessary to specify the details about the information to be contained in such decisions. the decisions from the competent authorities shall be made publicly available.