### 26. calls for the common security and defence policy (csdp) missions tasked with conflict prevention or mitigation to be strengthened , notably those in the eu’s immediate neighbourhood , to help stabilise already fragile settings and prevent a relapse in conflicts and violence due to additional tensions caused by covid-19; calls in this regard for a swift adoption of the european peace facility; ### 26. notes that the current covid-19 pandemic had a negative impact on the existing csdp missions , notably due to a temporary reduction in staff on eu training missions in places such as mali , somalia or the central african republic and underlines the importance for the eu to consider what more could be done to minimize and manage the risk of staff being infected , what additional resources are needed , as well as what adjustments work best in different environments to make sure the operational effectiveness is maintained; calls for the common security and defence policy (csdp) missions tasked with conflict prevention or mitigation to be strengthened , notably those in the eu’s immediate neighbourhood , to help stabilise already fragile settings and prevent a relapse in conflicts and violence due to additional tensions caused by covid-19; calls in this regard for a swift adoption of the european peace facility;


### 26. calls for the common security and defence policy (csdp) missions tasked with conflict prevention or mitigation to be strengthened , notably those in the eu’s immediate neighbourhood , to help stabilise already fragile settings and prevent a relapse in conflicts and violence due to additional tensions caused by covid-19; calls in this regard for a swift adoption of the european peace facility; ### 26. calls for the common security and defence policy (csdp) missions tasked with conflict prevention or mitigation to be strengthened , notably those in the eu’s immediate neighbourhood , to help stabilise already fragile settings and prevent a relapse in conflicts and violence due to additional tensions caused by covid-19; calls in this regard on the member states to make more civilian and military personnel available for such missions and operations;


### 2. supports the convening of the first intergovernmental conference without further delay , following the adoption of the negotiating framework by the council; ### 2. supports the convening of the first intergovernmental conference without further delay , following the adoption of the negotiating framework by the council; reminds that albania is a candidate country since 2014 , and that since 2018 the commission recommends starting accession talks;


### 2. supports the convening of the first intergovernmental conference without further delay , following the adoption of the negotiating framework by the council; ### 2. supports the convening of the first intergovernmental conference without further delay , following the adoption of the negotiating framework by the council; notes that the credibility of the accession process requires that the fulfilment of milestones being reflected in progress towards eu membership;


### 5. encourages political leaders to create a climate of confidence by overcoming the lack of dialogue and expresses its serious concern about the polarised political climate and lack of sustainable cross-party cooperation that continue to hamper the democratic process; ### 5. encourages political leaders to create a climate of confidence by increasing transparency and overcoming the lack of dialogue and expresses its serious concern about the polarised political climate and lack of sustainable cross-party cooperation that continue to hamper the democratic process;


### 8. underlines the importance of implementing the electoral reform measures codified in july 2020 , which are in line with the osce office for democratic institutions and human rights (osce/odihr) recommendations; welcomes the commitment to implement the forthcoming venice commission opinion regarding the amendments to the electoral code adopted in october 2020; ### 8. underlines the importance of implementing the electoral reform measures codified in july 2020 , as well as the osce office for democratic institutions and human rights (osce/odihr) recommendations; welcomes the commitment to implement the forthcoming venice commission opinion regarding the amendments to the electoral code adopted in october 2020;


### 11. encourages albania to complete the relevant steps towards re-establishing the constitutional court’s ability to function fully and efficiently , and urges all involved to swiftly conclude the appointment process; ### 11. encourages albania to complete the relevant steps towards re-establishing the constitutional court’s ability to function fully and efficiently , and urges all involved to swiftly conclude the appointment process; stresses the need to ensure the continued functioning of appeal courts as well;


### 12. welcomes the fact that the high court has regained its ability to function and that it has been reviewing more than a thousand cases , and encourages it to make further progress in the appointment of additional judges; ### 12. welcomes the fact that the high court has regained its ability to function and that it has been reviewing more than a thousand cases , and encourages it to make further progress in the appointment of additional judges and dramatically reducing its unsustainable backlog of pending cases;


### 18. expresses its support for inclusive policies and calls for progress to be made in adopting measures to effectively protect the fundamental freedoms and rights of all citizens; ### 18. expresses its support for inclusive policies and calls for progress to be made in adopting measures to effectively protect the fundamental freedoms and rights of all citizens , including lgbtq and persons with disabilities;


### 21. urges the authorities to ensure that sufficient resources are provided to the ombudsman , the anti-discrimination commissioner and the commissioner for the right to information and data protection , and that their respective recommendations are implemented systematically; ### 21. urges the authorities to ensure that sufficient resources are provided to the ombudsman , the anti-discrimination commissioner and the commissioner for the right to information and data protection , and that their respective recommendations are implemented systematically; calls for ensuring high standards as regards transparency in the justice sector and to in particular re-activate tools such as online data-bases which have already been operational in the past;


### 21. urges the authorities to ensure that sufficient resources are provided to the ombudsman , the anti-discrimination commissioner and the commissioner for the right to information and data protection , and that their respective recommendations are implemented systematically; ### 21. urges the authorities to ensure that sufficient resources are provided to the ombudsman , the anti-discrimination commissioner and the commissioner for the right to information and data protection , and that their respective recommendations are implemented systematically; stresses that only individuals whose independence and professionalism is beyond doubt should be appointed to these offices;


### 31. underlines the need to improve the climate for the functioning of civil society and urges the authorities to ensure meaningful , timely and representative consultations , and to enhance the financial sustainability of the non-governmental sector; ### 31. underlines the need to improve the climate for the functioning of civil society and urges the authorities to ensure meaningful , timely and representative consultations , and to enhance the financial sustainability of the non-governmental sector; stresses the need to improve conditions and an environment for accountability and scrutiny of public institutions , in particular cooperation with civil society and journalists , as well as their access to justice and legal certainty;


### 33. recalls the importance of ensuring quality journalism and media literacy for the functioning of democracy and in tackling disinformation; ### 33. recalls the importance of ensuring quality journalism and media literacy for the functioning of democracy and in tackling disinformation; urges the eeas to address disinformation and hybrid threats that seek to undermine the european perspective of the region by more strategically underscoring the eu’s relevance to citizens in the region; stresses the need to improve coordination in order to fight regional disinformation campaigns; calls on the commission to foster the creation of a balkan-focused centre of excellence on disinformation;


### 35. expresses grave concern about the proposed measures under the draft media law and welcomes the commitment to adopt amendments only if they are assessed as being fully in line with the venice commission’s recommendations; ### 35. expresses grave concern about the proposed measures under the draft media law and welcomes the commitment to adopt amendments only if they are assessed as being fully in line with the venice commission’s recommendations; calls for revising the 2015 law on audio-visual media , which currently does not contain limits to the ownership of broadcasting companies;


### 36. encourages the albanian government to prioritise measures aimed at mitigating the socio-economic impact of the covid-19 pandemic , while taking further steps to enhance the representativeness of the social dialogue and to tackle the widespread informal economy; ### 36. encourages the albanian government to prioritise measures aimed at mitigating the health and socio-economic impact of the covid-19 pandemic , while taking further steps to enhance the representativeness of the social dialogue and to tackle the widespread informal economy;


### 42. encourages the diversification of energy production , moving from hydropower towards wind and solar sources; urges the authorities to minimise the impact on biodiversity by restricting hydropower development in protected areas; underlines the need to improve both environmental and impact assessments across eco-sensitive sectors and boost the prosecution of environmental crimes; ### 42. encourages the diversification of energy production , moving from hydropower towards wind and solar sources; urges the authorities to minimise the impact on biodiversity by stopping and preventing hydropower development in protected areas; strongly supports the albanian government’s announcement to stop all hydropower plant construction projects along the vjosa river and to establish the vjosa national park covering the whole length of the river and its tributaries , which may serve , once implemented , as a role model for the biodiversity strategy within the framework of the european green deal; urges the european bank for reconstruction and development (ebrd) and the european investment bank (eib) to review their support for hydropower plant projects should they lack sound ex ante strategic environmental assessments and environmental impact assessments;


### 42. encourages the diversification of energy production , moving from hydropower towards wind and solar sources; urges the authorities to minimise the impact on biodiversity by restricting hydropower development in protected areas; underlines the need to improve both environmental and impact assessments across eco-sensitive sectors and boost the prosecution of environmental crimes; ### 42. encourages the diversification of energy production , increasing investments in wind and solar sources; urges the authorities to minimise the impact on biodiversity by restricting hydropower development in protected areas; underlines the need to improve both environmental and impact assessments across eco-sensitive sectors and boost the prosecution of environmental crimes;


### — having regard to the updated common military list of the european union , adopted by the council on 18 february 20197 , ### — having regard to the updated common military list of the european union , adopted by the council on 17 february 20207 ,


### the 20th and 21st annual reports ### the 20th and 21st eu annual reports on arms exports


### 1. welcomes the publication of the 20th and 21st annual reports; deplores the late publication of information about exports during 2017 and 2018; ### 1. welcomes the publication of the 20th and 21st annual reports , albeit with delay; believes that the publication of both reports represent a step forward towards a common eu position in the field of arms export , in the framework of an ever more challenging international context marked by increasing volumes of export and decreasing levels of transparency; considers both reports as valuable complements to the un reports on global and regional arms export transparency;


### 1. welcomes the publication of the 20th and 21st annual reports; deplores the late publication of information about exports during 2017 and 2018; ### 1. welcomes the publication of the 20th and 21st eu annual reports on arms exports according to article 8(2) of council common position 2008/944/cfsp which is compiled by the council working party on conventional arms exports (coarm) and published in the eu official journal; deplores the late publication of information about exports during 2017 and 2018;


### 2. notes that ten member states made full submissions to the 20th annual report , and eleven to the 21st; deplores the fact that two of the main exporting countries – germany and the uk – did not make full submissions; ### 2. notes that 19 member states made full submissions to the 20th annual report , and 19 to the 21st; underlines that full submission means to submit both the number and value of licences granted and the value of actual exports broken down by military list category; equally deplores that for the 20th report , belgium , cyprus , germany , greece , ireland , malta and the united kingdom , and for the 21th report belgium , cyprus , germany , greece , ireland , latvia , malta and the united kingdom did not report actual exports while , for both reports , france and italy only submitted aggregated actual exports; states that for the 20th annual report 27 member states , with the exception of greece , made at least partial submissions , and for the 21th annual report all 28 member states submitted data , while around a third of the countries were incomplete in their submissions; deeply deplores that , with the exception of spain , the eu’s main exporting countries which are also the countries with the biggest administrative capacities , did not manage to make full submissions; urges all member states to make full submissions to the 22nd report;


### 2. notes that ten member states made full submissions to the 20th annual report , and eleven to the 21st; deplores the fact that two of the main exporting countries – germany and the uk – did not make full submissions; ### 2. notes that ten member states made full submissions to the 20th annual report , and eleven to the 21st , thereby showing an increased implementation of common rules at a time of decreasing global transparency in the arms trade , especially among several major arms exporting countries; calls on member states to provide submissions for future annual reports with a view to further strengthening the eu’s efforts to improve the transparency of the global arms trade;


### 3. deplores the fact that member states use very different information in order to generate data on the value of licences , which renders the annual report considerably less usable as a comparative data set and serves to diminish its transparency and accountability before citizens and parliaments; urges france , in particular , to refrain from submitting data on the value of licences at pre-contract stage and broad values for global licences , which undermines the comparability of the report; ### 3. calls on member states to use harmonised and eu-level standardised data on the value of licences and other arms transfers , with a view to make the annual report considerably more usable as a comparative data set and as a tool to increase its transparency and accountability;


### 3. deplores the fact that member states use very different information in order to generate data on the value of licences , which renders the annual report considerably less usable as a comparative data set and serves to diminish its transparency and accountability before citizens and parliaments; urges france , in particular , to refrain from submitting data on the value of licences at pre-contract stage and broad values for global licences , which undermines the comparability of the report; ### 3. deplores the fact that member states use very different information in order to generate data on the value of licences , which renders the annual report considerably less usable as a comparative data set and serves to diminish its transparency and accountability before citizens and parliaments; urges france , in particular , to refrain from submitting data on the value of licences at pre-contract stage and broad values for global licences , which undermines the comparability of the report; stresses the importance to report actual arms exports including the value of actual exports under global and general licences;


### 4. notes that the countries of the middle east and north africa , a region of several armed conflicts , remain the foremost regional destination for exports according to the last two annual reports; is concerned that this regional focus undermines the common foreign and security policy (cfsp) and specific eu action aimed at regional peace and stability; ### 4. notes that the countries of the middle east and north africa , a region of on-going sever alarmed conflicts and violations of international law and human rights remain the foremost regional destination for exports according to the last two annual reports; is concerned that this regional focus undermines the common foreign and security policy (cfsp) and specific eu action aimed at regional peace and stability and promotion of international law respect for human rights; notes that in some cases , the arms exported to certain countries , for example to saudi arabia , uae and members of the saudi-led coalition , have been used in conflicts such as that in yemen where 22 million people found themselves in need of humanitarian aid and protection; recalls that such exports clearly violate the common position;


### 5. recalls that the eu has been implementing a number of arms embargoes25 ; ### 5. recalls that the eu has decided a number of arms embargoes25 on countries such as belarus , central african republic , china , iran , libya , myanmar , north korea , russian federation , somalia , south sudan , sudan , syria , venezuela , yemen and zimbabwe; is deeply worried about the non-respect of the arms embargo against libya and calls on the eeas to create and implement more robust procedures for monitoring the compliance of all member states with eu arms embargos and make the findings public;


### 5. recalls that the eu has been implementing a number of arms embargoes25 ; ### 5. recalls that the eu has been implementing a number of arms embargoes , notes that whereas these embargoes could deprive a country of military resources , in some cases they are essential for regional peace and stability and notes that such embargoes ensure that the eu does not contribute to humanitarian crises , human rights abuses and atrocities;


### 7. points out that council decision (cfsp) 2019/1560 and the relevant conclusions of 16 september 2019 have the potential to ensure that eu citizens are furnished with better information about the strategic choices made by their governments in an area which directly affects their security and their countries’ adherence to values and norms; ### 7. points out that council decision (cfsp) 2019/1560 and the relevant conclusions of 16 september 2019 reflect a growing awareness among member states of the need for even greater national and eu-wide transparency and convergence in the area of arms export and the need to strengthen public oversight in this sensitive national security domain;


### 9. supports the council’s decision to introduce a clear reporting deadline for national submissions; welcomes the steps taken towards the online approach and encourages the further development of the latter; ### 9. supports the council’s decision to introduce a clear reporting deadline for national submissions; encourages the member states to submit their data preferably in may after the reporting year in order to allow a timely public debate; welcomes the steps taken towards the online approach and encourages the further development of the latter;


### 9. supports the council’s decision to introduce a clear reporting deadline for national submissions; welcomes the steps taken towards the online approach and encourages the further development of the latter; ### 9. supports the council’s decision to introduce a clear reporting deadline for national submissions , as well as clear standards for the report’s format; welcomes the steps taken towards the online approach and encourages the further development of the latter;


### 10. notes that since the adoption of the legally binding common position in 2008 , an increasing number of weapon systems produced in europe are made up of components from multiple countries and involve bi- or multilateral cooperation for technological , industrial and political reasons; ### 10. welcomes that since the adoption of the legally binding common position in 2008 , an increasing number of weapon systems produced in europe are made up of components from multiple countries and involve bi- or multilateral cooperation; underlines the positive role of technological , industrial and political cooperation in promoting confidence building among member states and third countries;


### 11. notes an increase in the transfer of knowledge and technology , which allows third countries to undertake licensed production of european military technology; ### 11. notes an increase in the transfer of knowledge and technology , which allows third countries to undertake licensed production of european military technology; believes that this process can foster the harmonisation of public oversight and transparency standards in defence production and accelerate the creation of internationally recognised and respected rules on arms production and export;


### 12. notes that most member states have not outlined a policy regulating the transfer of weapons components to another member state which would ensure that any export to third countries from the member state of assembly is consistent with the export policy of the member state providing the components; regards this as particularly problematic in the context of the increasing divergences between licensing practices across the eu; observes that directive 2009/43/ec on intra-community transfers has proven ill-equipped to achieve the stated goal of setting high common standards for exports to third countries; ### 12. notes that most member states have not developed an export policy for weapons components to be transferred to another member state which would ensure that any export to third countries from the member state of assembly is consistent with the export policy of the member state providing the components; regards this as particularly problematic in the context of the increasing divergences between licensing practices across the eu; observes that directive 2009/43/ec on intra-community transfers , in its current form , is not designed to achieve highest common standards for exports to third countries;


### 13. observes a trend whereby the diverging export policies of the member states are increasingly considered as obstacles to cooperation projects , which is giving rise to a multitude of bilateral and specific agreements on weapon systems that allow for exports to third countries based on the least restrictive standards , rather than a joint , eu-wide approach; ### 13. observes a trend whereby the diverging export policies of the member states are increasingly considered as obstacles to cooperation projects , which is giving rise to a multitude of bilateral and specific agreements on weapon systems that allow for exports to third countries based on the least restrictive standards , rather than a joint , eu-wide approach; recalls that the purpose of the council common position on arms exports was and is to prevent such divergences and to establish a coherent common arms export policy;


### 14. stresses that bilateral and multilateral agreements may further reduce convergence at eu level and that the failure to regulate exports uniformly between the member states and the lack of convergence in export decisions to third countries have a negative impact on human rights and international law , generate market distortions , and hinder industrial strategic planning , economies of scale and a level playing field; ### 14. stresses that bilateral and multilateral agreements may further reduce convergence at eu level and that the failure to regulate exports uniformly between the member states and the lack of convergence and accountability in export decisions to third countries have a negative impact on human rights and international law and regional peace and stability , generate market distortions , and hinder industrial strategic planning , economies of scale and a level playing field;


### 15. notes that eu funds such as the preparatory action on defence research (padr) , the european defence industrial development programme (edidp) and the european defence fund (edf) , initiatives such as the permanent structured cooperation (pesco) , the coordinated annual review on defence (card) and the european peace facility (epf) , legislation such as the intra-community transfers and defence procurement directives of 2009 , and the creation of administrative capacities such as the commission directorate-general for defence industry and space (dg defis) are heralding an increasing europeanisation of arms production and capability development; ### 15. welcomes that eu funds such as the preparatory action on defence research (padr) , the european defence industrial development programme (edidp) and the european defence fund (edf) , initiatives such as the permanent structured cooperation (pesco) , the coordinated annual review on defence (card) and the european peace facility (epf) , legislation such as the intra-community transfers and defence procurement directives of 2009 , and the creation of administrative capacities such as the commission directorate-general for defence industry and space (dg defis) are heralding an increasing europeanisation of arms production and capability development as well as strengthening cooperation among member states and enhancing common standards in the field of arms exports;


### 16. underlines the fact that the interinstitutional agreement on the establishment of the edf authorises the commission to assess whether the transfer of ownership or the granting of an exclusive licence of edf-co-funded military technology contravenes the security and defence interests of the eu and its member states or the objectives of the fund as set out in article 3 of the proposed regulation; notes that this new legislation establishes a specific type of control function for the commission with regard to a specific category of exports of military technology to third countries; ### 16. welcomes the fact that the interinstitutional agreement on the establishment of the edf authorises the commission to assess whether the transfer of ownership or the granting of an exclusive licence of edf-co-funded military technology contravenes the security and defence interests of the eu and its member states or the objectives of the fund as set out in article 3 of the proposed regulation; notes that this new legislation is a clear commitment to a greater level of control and equips the commission with additional powers of civilian oversight with regard to a specific category of exports of military technology to third countries , thereby further enhancing transparency and minimising the risk of a misuse of eu funds;


### 16. underlines the fact that the interinstitutional agreement on the establishment of the edf authorises the commission to assess whether the transfer of ownership or the granting of an exclusive licence of edf-co-funded military technology contravenes the security and defence interests of the eu and its member states or the objectives of the fund as set out in article 3 of the proposed regulation; notes that this new legislation establishes a specific type of control function for the commission with regard to a specific category of exports of military technology to third countries; ### 16. underlines the fact that the interinstitutional agreement on the establishment of the edf authorises the commission to assess whether the transfer of ownership or the granting of an exclusive licence of edf-co-funded military technology contravenes the security and defence interests of the eu and its member states or the objectives of the fund as set out in article 3 of the proposed regulation; notes that this new legislation establishes an active role for the commission with regard to a specific category of exports of military technology to third countries;


### 17. notes that under the epf , member states and the european external action service (eeas) will work on creating an eu-level system for arms transfers to third countries; ### 17. notes that under the epf , member states and the european external action service(eeas) work towards creating an eu-level instrument that will allow the eu to provide military equipment to strengthen capacities of third countries; notes that current plans foresee that supplies will be subjected to relevant national and union arms export control laws and rules , in particular as regards export licences for which exporting member states retain exclusive authority;


### 18. notes that the lack of convergence of national arms export policies and decision-making is becoming increasingly untenable in the context of the prevailing europeanisation of arms production and the stated ambitions and plans to increase this further; ### 18. notes that the lack of convergence of national arms export policies and decision-making is becoming increasingly untenable in the context of the prevailing europeanisation of arms production and the stated ambitions and plans to increase this further; thus potentially undermining human rights and international law , creating additional market distortions , and related obstacles for strategic planning of relevant companies and armed forces;


### a) to add the following additional categories in a revised reporting template in order to implement the recent september 2019 council conclusions: the exact type of weapon and the quantity exported , denomination of the munitions , the lot size and the specific end-user , revoked licences , and the value and duration of contracts regarding post-delivery services such as training and maintenance; ### a) to add additional categories in a revised reporting template , in line with internationally recognized standards , in order to implement the recent september 2019 council conclusions;


### b) to disaggregate data with regard to denial information so as to facilitate the scrutiny of specific shipments or member states; ### b) to collect and present data in a way that would enable , if required , the necessary scrutiny of specific shipments or member states;


### c) to clarify definitions such as licensed value and actual exports so as to facilitate the comparability of data between member states; ### c) to develop eu and internationally recognized definitions such as licensed value and actual exports so as to facilitate the comparability of data between member states and at international level;


### 20. welcomes the decision to transform the annual report into an interactive and searchable online database and expects it to be up and running before publication of the export data for 2019; calls on the eeas to inform parliament about the precise date on which this database will go online; urges coarm to chose a solution that enables data to be exported in a structured format; ### 20. welcomes the decision to transform the annual report into an interactive , reliable and searchable online database and expects it to be up and running before publication of the export data for 2019;calls on the eeas to inform parliament about the precise date on which this database will go online; urges coarm to choose a solution that enables data to be exported in a structured format;


### a) to systematically discuss individual licence requests within coarm , where the receiving destination or recipient has been identified as a risk by one or several member states or the eeas; calls on member states to provide a justification if they decide to grant exports to such destinations; ### a) to systematically discuss individual licence requests within coarm , where the receiving destination or recipient has been identified as a risk by one or several member states or the eeas; calls on member states to provide a realistic justification if they decide to grant exports to such destinations;


### 22. believes that the eu institutions should organise peer reviews with a view to encouraging authorities to share best practices on the collection and processing of data , fostering a better understanding of different national approaches , identifying differences as regards the interpretation of the eight criteria , and discussing ways to improve harmonisation; ### 22. believes that eu institutions should encourage authorities to share best practices on the collection and processing of data , fostering a better understanding of different national approaches , identifying national peculiarities as regards the interpretation of the eight criteria , and discussing ways and means to improve harmonisation and convergence among member states;


### 23. strongly believes that a much higher level of convergence as regards the strict application of the criteria will strengthen human rights , international law and the cfsp , and bolster the eu’s strategic security interests and strategic autonomy; ### 23. strongly believes that a much higher level of convergence as regards the strict application of the criteria will strengthen human rights , international law and the cfsp , will contribute to the promotion of peace and stability and bolster the eu’s strategic security interests and strategic autonomy;


### 24. stresses that effective end-use controls are crucial for a responsible export policy and for lowering the risk of diversion in particular; calls on the council , the member states , the eeas and the commission to set up a large-scale training and capacity-building programme for national and eu officials on arms export controls; stresses the need to use eu funding to ensure that sufficient staff resources are available at national and eu levels and at delegations and embassies in importing countries for the purposes of implementing viable end-use controls; calls on the eeas and coarm to report on itrace any identified diversion of eu-origin goods as part of the annual report; ### 24. stresses that effective end-use controls are crucial for a responsible export policy and for lowering the risk of diversion in particular; strongly welcomes the eu funded itrace project in this respect and demands its continuation and broadening; calls on the council , the member states , and the eeas to set up a large-scale training and capacity-building programme for national and eu officials on arms export controls with a strong focus on building mutual understanding of the eight criteria , joint risk assessments , setting up of safeguards , and pre- and post-licensing verification; stresses the need to use eu funding to ensure that sufficient staff resources are available at national and eu levels and at delegations and embassies in importing countries for the purposes of implementing viable end-use controls; calls on the eeas and coarm to report on itrace any identified diversion of eu-origin goods as part of the annual report;


### 24. stresses that effective end-use controls are crucial for a responsible export policy and for lowering the risk of diversion in particular; calls on the council , the member states , the eeas and the commission to set up a large-scale training and capacity-building programme for national and eu officials on arms export controls; stresses the need to use eu funding to ensure that sufficient staff resources are available at national and eu levels and at delegations and embassies in importing countries for the purposes of implementing viable end-use controls; calls on the eeas and coarm to report on itrace any identified diversion of eu-origin goods as part of the annual report; ### 24. stresses that effective end-use controls could result in a more responsible export policy and could lower the risk of diversion in particular; calls on the council , the member states , the eeas and the commission to set up a comprehensive training and capacity-building programme for national and eu officials on arms export controls; stresses the need to use and adequate amount of eu funding to ensure that the necessary staff resources are available at national and eu levels and at delegations and embassies in importing countries for the purposes of implementing viable end-use controls of all aspects of the global arms trade; calls on the eeas and coarm to report on itrace any identified diversion of eu-origin goods as part of the annual report;


### 26. considers that regular consultations with national parliaments , arms export control authorities , industry associations and civil society are central to meaningful transparency; calls on coarm to enhance dialogue with civil society and consultations with parliament and arms export control authorities; encourages civil society and academia to exercise independent scrutiny of the arms trade and calls on the member states and the eeas to support such activities , including by financial means; ### 26. considers that regular consultations with national parliaments , arms export control authorities , industry associations and civil society are needed to enhance meaningful transparency; calls on coarm to enhance dialogue with civil society and industries , as well as consultations with parliament and arms export control authorities;


### 26. considers that regular consultations with national parliaments , arms export control authorities , industry associations and civil society are central to meaningful transparency; calls on coarm to enhance dialogue with civil society and consultations with parliament and arms export control authorities; encourages civil society and academia to exercise independent scrutiny of the arms trade and calls on the member states and the eeas to support such activities , including by financial means; ### 26. considers that regular consultations with national parliaments , arms export control authorities , industry associations and civil society are central to meaningful transparency; calls on coarm to enhance dialogue with civil society and consultations with parliament and arms export control authorities; encourages civil society and academia to exercise independent scrutiny of the arms trade and security technology transfers from and to third countries and calls on the member states and the eeas to support such activities , including by increasing financial means , notably under the future ndici;


### a. whereas parliament has a duty and responsibility to exercise its democratic oversight over the common foreign and security policy (cfsp) and common security and defence policy (csdp) and should get the necessary and effective means to fulfil this role; ### a. whereas parliament has a duty and responsibility to exercise its democratic oversight over the common foreign and security policy (cfsp) and common security and defence policy (csdp) and should get the necessary and effective means to fulfil this role including as regards all defence industrial programmes;


### — having regard to the north atlantic council statement on the treaty on the prohibition of nuclear weapons of 20 september 2017 , ### deleted


### a. whereas the treaty on the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons (npt) has undoubtedly been the most important international instrument to regulate the nuclear regime for the last 50 years and has contributed substantially to preventing the spread of nuclear weapons , reducing the nuclear arsenal and facilitating the peaceful use of nuclear energy; whereas in 1995 , npt state parties agreed to extend the npt indefinitely; ### a. whereas the treaty on the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons (npt) has undoubtedly been the international instrument to regulate the nuclear regime for the last 50 years and has contributed substantially to preventing the spread of nuclear weapons , reducing the nuclear arsenal and facilitating the peaceful use of nuclear energy; whereas in 1995 , npt state parties agreed to extend the npt indefinitely; whereas , given the failure in 2015 to agree on a substantive outcome document , it is of utmost importance to make the 2020 review a success;


### c. whereas the objective of the npt’s periodical review conferences is to evaluate the implementation of the npt and to draw up a roadmap for achieving further progress based on a step-by-step approach; whereas the review process represents an opportunity for the state parties to uphold and strengthen the nuclear non-proliferation regime once every five years; ### c. whereas the objective of the npt’s periodical review conferences is to evaluate the implementation of the npt and to draw up a roadmap for achieving progress based on a step-by-step approach; whereas the review process represents an opportunity for the state parties to uphold and strengthen the nuclear non-proliferation regime once every five years;


### d. whereas the ultimate goal of strengthening the global non-proliferation regime in the 2010 review conference was achieved further to npt states recommitting to the basic provisions of the npt and adopting a 64-point action plan that includes , among other features , specific action plans on non-proliferation , disarmament and peaceful use of nuclear energy , underpinned by concrete and measurable actions that the state parties will take to support the three pillars; ### d. whereas the ultimate goal of strengthening the global non-proliferation regime in the 2010 review conference was reiterated further to npt states recommitting to the basic provisions of the npt and adopting a 64-point action plan that includes , among other features , specific action plans on non-proliferation , disarmament and peaceful use of nuclear energy , underpinned by concrete and measurable actions that the state parties will take to support the three pillars;


### e. whereas in the section on nuclear disarmament , state parties , including recognised nuclear-armed states , for the first time undertook to accelerate real progress on disarmament and ultimately accomplish the total elimination of their nuclear arsenals , deployed or non-deployed; whereas actions agreed under the non-proliferation pillar include a wide range of issues , such as reinforcement of safeguards , support to the international atomic energy agency (iaea) , physical protection of nuclear material , conclusion and entry into force of additional protocols , safeguards for nuclear-related exports , transfers of nuclear technology , and nuclear terrorism; ### e. whereas unfortunately the nuclear disarmament objective has not been implemented or met so far; whereas actions agreed under the non-proliferation pillar include a wide range of issues , such as reinforcement of safeguards , support to the international atomic energy agency (iaea) , physical protection of nuclear material , conclusion and entry into force of additional protocols , safeguards for nuclear-related exports , transfers of nuclear technology , and nuclear terrorism;


### confirm the inalienable right of the npt parties to the peaceful use of nuclear energy to meet their long-term energy requirements , in conformity with the npt provisions; work with countries wishing to develop capacities in this area towards a responsible use of nuclear energy for solely peaceful purposes , provided all safety , security and non-proliferation conditions are met; recall in particular that the needs of developing countries should be duly taken into account; encourage the state parties to use the opportunity of the 2020 review process to further deepen the debate on the peaceful use of nuclear energy; recognise the role and value of the iaea and its safeguard system in implementing the npt and in strengthening the nuclear security framework; ### acknowledge the fact that nuclear energy is a dual-use technology and that every civil program can be used by the relevant state to acquire nuclear weapons within a short period of time and to possibly contribute to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and undermine the npt objective of nuclear disarmament; conclude that for security and defence considerations this pillar of npt needs to be reconsidered as it significantly weakens its nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation objectives;


### call on the state parties to develop and put in place measures aimed at mitigating the risks of using nuclear weapons , be it intentionally , by misperception or miscalculation in an escalating conflict , or accidentally; measures could include improving communication channels and protocols , creating a clear distinction between conventional and nuclear assets , as well as improving resilience to cyberattacks and extending decision-time in a crisis; ### call on the state parties to develop and put in place measures aimed at mitigating the risks of using nuclear weapons , be it intentionally , by misperception or miscalculation in an escalating conflict , or accidentally; measures could include improving communication channels and protocols , cybersecurity , creating a clear distinction between conventional and nuclear assets , as well as improving resilience to cyberattacks and extending decision-time in a crisis;


### — having regard to the european reform agenda (era) for kosovo , launched in pristina on 11 november 2016 , ### — having regard to the european reform agenda (era) for kosovo , launched in pristina on 11 november 2016 , as well as the launching of the era 2 in october 2020 ,


### — having regard to the reports of the un secretary-general on the activities of the un interim administration mission in kosovo (unmik) , ### — having regard to the reports of the un secretary-general on the activities of the un interim administration mission in kosovo (unmik) , including the most recent report of 31 march 2020 , and the reports on the operations of the kosovo forces (kfor) of 7 february 2018 ,


### c. whereas kosovo continues to struggle with political instability , in particular since the early legislative elections of 6 october 2019; ### c. whereas kosovo continues to struggle with political instability , in particular since the early legislative elections of 6 october 2019; whereas the end of the kurti government exposed several structural issues , including undue interference of external actors into the work of the government and the assembly , independence of the constitutional court , and lack of clarity on the legality of the vote on the government;


### g. whereas the covid-19 pandemic represents an unprecedented burden on kosovo’s health , economy , and social protection systems; ### g. whereas the covid-19 pandemic represents an unprecedented burden on kosovo’s health , economy , and social protection systems and has clearly demonstrated that the eu and the western balkans must continue tackling common challenges together;


### 1. welcomes kosovo’s continued commitment to advancing on its european path , as well as the strong support for european integration among kosovo’s population; ### 1. welcomes kosovo’s continued commitment to advancing on its european path and to accelerate reforms , as well as the strong support for european integration among kosovo’s population;


### 1. welcomes kosovo’s continued commitment to advancing on its european path , as well as the strong support for european integration among kosovo’s population; ### 1. welcomes kosovo’s continued and strong commitment to advancing on its european path , as well as the strong support for european integration among kosovo’s population;


### 2. regrets the limited progress in implementing the era , and calls on the kosovo authorities to take ownership of the process , demonstrate greater political will and improve administrative capacity in order to enhance implementation of the eu-related reforms; ### 2. regrets the limited progress in implementing the era 1 , while acknowledging the commitment of the government for a broad and all inclusive reform process as foreseen by era 2; calls on the kosovo authorities to take ownership of the process , demonstrate greater political will and improve administrative capacity in order to enhance implementation of the eu-related reforms;


### 3. expresses concern about the dissolution of the ministry of the eu integration , and calls on the government of kosovo to ensure that the new structure is granted the level of competence and responsibilities appropriate to ensuring proper coordination of the integration process; ### 3. expresses concern about the dissolution of the ministry of the eu integration , and calls on the need to fully and properly integrate the former structures of the ministry of eu integration in the prime minister office as foreseen on the newly approved regulation of the organisational structure of the prime minister’s office;


### 3. expresses concern about the dissolution of the ministry of the eu integration , and calls on the government of kosovo to ensure that the new structure is granted the level of competence and responsibilities appropriate to ensuring proper coordination of the integration process; ### 3. expresses concern about the dissolution of the ministry of the eu integration , and calls on the government of kosovo to ensure that the new structure is granted the level of competence and responsibilities appropriate to ensuring proper coordination and steering of the integration process;


### 4. welcomes the peaceful and orderly conduct of the early legislative elections of 6 october 2019; stresses the importance of addressing all the shortcomings identified and recommendations made by the eueom; ### 4. welcomes the peaceful and orderly conduct of the early legislative elections of 6 october 2019 , but expresses its concern over the fundamental lack of competition , freedom of choice and expression in the kosovo serb community , noted by the eueom report; stresses the importance of addressing all the shortcomings identified and recommendations made by the eueom;


### 5. welcomes the commission’s statement of 26 august 2020 confirming its assessment of kosovo’s ability to benefit from the visa liberalisation regime , and calls on the council to urgently proceed with the adoption of a visa-free regime for the citizens of kosovo; ### 5. welcomes the commission’s confirmation , in its 2020 kosovo report , of its assessment regarding kosovo’s ability to benefit from the visa liberalisation regime , and calls on the council to urgently proceed with the adoption of a visa-free regime for the citizens of kosovo; recalls , in this regard , that kosovo continues to fulfil all the benchmarks of the visa liberalisation roadmap , as consistently confirmed by the commission since july 2018; notes that the delay in approving visa liberalisation for kosovo is weakening the eu’s credibility and withholding urgently needed opportunities for the citizens of kosovo;


### 5. welcomes the commission’s statement of 26 august 2020 confirming its assessment of kosovo’s ability to benefit from the visa liberalisation regime , and calls on the council to urgently proceed with the adoption of a visa-free regime for the citizens of kosovo; ### 5. welcomes the commission’s statement of 26 august 2020 confirming its assessment of kosovo’s ability to benefit from the visa liberalisation regime , and calls on the council to urgently proceed with the adoption of a visa-free regime for the citizens of kosovo; reiterates its concern that the lack of a decision from the council could weaken eu's credibility in the western balkans and might impact the dialogue between kosovo and serbia;


### 8. notes the signature of the agreement for economic normalisation between kosovo and serbia on 4 september in washington; underlines that transatlantic cooperation is a crucial factor for stability in the region; ### 8. notes the signature of the agreement for economic normalisation between kosovo and serbia on 4 september in washington; underlines that transatlantic cooperation is a crucial factor for stability in the region; regrets , however , provisions in the text that ask kosovo to stop seeking membership in international organisations , as well as provisions that run counter to accession countries’ ambition to align with eu cfsp; recalls , in that regard , that establishing an embassy of kosovo to israel in jerusalem would go against the eu's position on jerusalem and its firm commitment to the two-state solution with jerusalem as capital of both the state of israel and the future state of palestine;


### 10. stresses the need to intensify the fight against corruption , and expresses its serious concern about the abolition of the special anti-corruption department within the kosovo police (kp); ### 10. stresses the need to intensify the fight against corruption , and expresses its serious concern about the abolition of the special anti-corruption task force within the kosovo police (kp); underlines that a strong political will is needed to effectively fight corruption and calls to cease any changes of law enforcement and anti-corruption institutions based on party political interests;


### 11. calls on kosovo to improve its regulatory measures for the freezing , confiscation and recovery of assets , and for final convictions in cases of high-level corruption , organised and financial crime , money laundering and terrorist financing; ### 11. calls on kosovo to improve the implementation of its regulatory measures relating to the freezing , confiscation and recovery of assets , and regarding final convictions in cases of high-level corruption , organised and financial crime , money laundering and terrorist financing , and ensure there is no interference with operational activities of law enforcement bodies and the prosecution; notes also the need to improve the financial oversight and accountability of publicly owned enterprises;


### 12. welcomes the adoption of measures helping to limit external interference in judicial proceedings , as well as the increase in final court judgments published; believes that further measures are required to ensure greater independence of the judiciary and to stop undue interference in high-profile cases; ### 12. welcomes the adoption by the kosovo judicial council of measures helping to limit external interference in judicial proceedings , as well as the increase in final court judgments published; believes that further measures are required to ensure greater independence of the judiciary and to stop undue interference in high-profile cases;


### 13. reiterates its support for the work of the specialist chambers and the specialist prosecutor’s office; stresses the importance of the specialist chambers being able to continue their work independently , without any outside interference; ### 13. reiterates its support for the work of the specialist chambers and the specialist prosecutor’s office , which are an important demonstration of kosovo’s commitment to the rule of law and whose work is also in the interest of kosovo; stresses the importance of the specialist chambers being able to continue their work independently , without any outside interference; welcomes the prolongation of the mandate of the ksc and its work in the hague;


### 14. reiterates that selections and appointments for high-level decision-making positions in the civil service and publicly owned enterprises remain of great concern; ### 14. reiterates that non-merit based selections and appointments for high-level decision-making positions in the civil service and publicly owned enterprises remain of great concern and repeats its call for progress and clear political commitment to public administration reform , including depoliticisation , increased professionalism , and by advancing the implementation of the relevant legislation;


### 14. reiterates that selections and appointments for high-level decision-making positions in the civil service and publicly owned enterprises remain of great concern; ### 14. reiterates the need for a fair and competitive process of selections and appointments for high-level decision-making positions in the civil service and publicly owned enterprises and acknowledges the efforts of the government of kosovo through signing the memorandums of understanding with the united kingdom to oversee this process and to support and advice the local institutions;


### 15. welcomes the improvement in the organisation of the work of the national assembly and the management of plenary sessions based on the rules of procedure; regrets however the frequent lack of quorum , and calls on the assembly and the government to adhere to parliamentary best practices; ### 15. welcomes the improvement in the organisation of the work of the national assembly and the management of plenary sessions based on the rules of procedure; regrets however the frequent lack of quorum , and ongoing hold-ups in parliamentary work , which has been particularly damaging in the process of adopting the pandemic-related relief package; calls on the assembly and the government to adhere to parliamentary best practices;


### 16. notes that kosovo’s legal and institutional framework broadly guarantees the protection of human and fundamental rights; underlines that challenges remain in its implementation , in particular as regards language rights; ### 16. notes that kosovo’s legal and institutional framework broadly guarantees the protection of human and fundamental rights; underlines that challenges remain in its implementation , in particular as regards language rights , including multilingual broadcasting , a lack of which impacts the minority communities’ access to information and has been particularly harmful during the covid-19 pandemic;


### 17. calls for greater protection and inclusion of persons belonging to minorities , including roma , ashkali and egyptians , as well as persons with disabilities , by providing them with adequate health and social protection and care; urges more efforts to fight discrimination and antigypsyism; ### 17. calls for greater protection and inclusion of persons belonging to minorities , including roma , ashkali and egyptians , as well as persons with disabilities , by providing them with adequate health and social protection and care , in particular during the covid-19 pandemic and in light of its socio-economic consequences; urges more efforts to fight discrimination and antigypsyism; is particularly concerned by the social discrimination against roma , ashkali and egyptian communities , their exclusion from political and social decision-making and continued lack of resources and access to employment opportunities , justice , public services , housing , healthcare , sewage systems , and running water;


### 18. notes the failure to ensure the financial and editorial freedom of the public broadcaster; reiterates the need to guarantee full transparency of media ownership; ### 18. calls for the need to establish financial and editorial freedom of the public broadcaster; reiterates the need to further strengthen media transparency , including media ownership;


### 18. notes the failure to ensure the financial and editorial freedom of the public broadcaster; reiterates the need to guarantee full transparency of media ownership; ### 18. notes the pluralistic media environment , but also the failure to ensure the financial and editorial freedom of the public broadcaster; reiterates the need to guarantee full transparency of media ownership , independence of media , free from any political influence , as well as an end to impunity for crimes against journalists; calls for a swift appointment of the commissioner of media protection;


### 19. calls for better cooperation between government and civil society , and for increased participation of civil society in policymaking; ### 19. notes that the environment in which civil society operates continued to improve and government authorities continue to make efforts to enhance the ability of civil society to contribute meaningfully to policy development; calls for further efforts to enhance transparency of public funding for civil society organisation;


### 19. calls for better cooperation between government and civil society , and for increased participation of civil society in policymaking; ### 19. calls for better cooperation between government and civil society , and for increased participation of civil society in policymaking; reiterates the need for an enhanced accountability and transparency in public funding for civil society;


### 20. welcomes the progress on the protection of lgbti rights at the legislative and policy level; notes , however , the need for full implementation of the existing anti-discrimination framework , and calls for the proper investigation of cases of hate crime against lgbti persons; ### 20. welcomes the progress on the protection of lgbti rights at the legislative and policy level; notes , however , the need for full implementation of the existing anti-discrimination framework , and calls for the proper investigation of cases of hate crime against lgbti persons; calls on the government to include same-sex partnerships in the civil code project , as guaranteed by the country’s constitution;


### 21. hails the unanimous decision by the national assembly of kosovo to give direct effect to the council of europe convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence; ### 21. hails the unanimous decision by the national assembly of kosovo on 25 september 2020 to give direct effect to the council of europe convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence (istanbul convention); expects the kosovo government to move swiftly to implement the content of the convention and provide the necessary resources and infrastructure to that effect;


### 22. calls on the kosovo authorities to increase efforts to promote t gender equality , including by prioritising gender mainstreaming and increased cooperation with civil society , including women’s organisations , as well as by creating an environment conducive to the better representation of women in decision-making positions; ### 22. calls on the kosovo authorities to increase efforts to promote t gender equality , including by prioritising gender mainstreaming and increased cooperation with civil society , including women’s organisations , as well as by creating an environment conducive to the better representation of women in decision-making positions and by making sure school textbooks do not perpetuate stereotypes and discrimination; calls in this respect for the participation of women in the negotiation team responsible for the belgrade-pristina dialogue; equally , demands that the eu side supports this endeavour and these efforts by adhering to the above mentioned recommendations itself;


### 22. calls on the kosovo authorities to increase efforts to promote t gender equality , including by prioritising gender mainstreaming and increased cooperation with civil society , including women’s organisations , as well as by creating an environment conducive to the better representation of women in decision-making positions; ### 22. calls on the kosovo authorities to increase efforts to promote gender equality and strengthening women’s economic position , including by prioritising gender mainstreaming and increased cooperation with civil society , including women’s organisations , as well as by creating an environment conducive to the better representation of women in decision-making positions;


### 23. reiterates its concern about the scale of domestic and gender-based violence; welcomes the revisions of the criminal code in this respect; notes , however , that the impunity of perpetrators is still of concern; ### 23. reiterates its concern about the scale of domestic and gender-based violence; welcomes the revisions of the criminal code in this respect , as well as improvements observed in the eulex report in certain aspects of the kosovo police’s handling of sexual violence cases; notes , however , that the lack of prosecutions and serious punishment , impunity of perpetrators , insufficient systems for tracking and case databases , lack of adequate resources and services for victims (shelters , centres for examination , trauma support , counselling) , outstanding training and institutionalised treatment protocols for the entire justice system are still of concern;


### 25. stresses that normalisation of relations between serbia and kosovo is a priority and a precondition for eu accession; calls for active and constructive engagement in the eu-facilitated dialogue led by the eu special representative , seeking a comprehensive and legally binding agreement in accordance with international law; reiterates its call to move forward with the full implementation , in good faith and in a timely manner , of all the agreements already reached; ### 25. stresses that normalisation of relations between serbia and kosovo is a priority and a precondition for eu accession; calls for active and constructive engagement in the eu-facilitated dialogue led by the eu special representative , seeking a comprehensive and legally binding agreement in accordance with international law; reiterates its call to move forward with the full implementation , in good faith and in a timely manner , of all the agreements already reached; in relation to possible adjustments of the border between serbia and kosovo , including exchanges of territories , reiterates the importance of the multi-ethnic nature of both kosovo and serbia and that ethnically homogeneous states should not be the objective in the region; calls on kosovo to tackle ongoing internal problems of kosovo’s approach to the dialogue , introduce a dedicated team for the negotiations , as well as a joint negotiating platform and a dialogue between the ruling coalition and opposition parties;


### 25. stresses that normalisation of relations between serbia and kosovo is a priority and a precondition for eu accession; calls for active and constructive engagement in the eu-facilitated dialogue led by the eu special representative , seeking a comprehensive and legally binding agreement in accordance with international law; reiterates its call to move forward with the full implementation , in good faith and in a timely manner , of all the agreements already reached; ### 25. stresses that normalisation of relations between serbia and kosovo is a priority and a precondition for eu accession for both countries; calls for active and constructive engagement in the eu-facilitated dialogue led by the eu special representative , seeking a comprehensive and legally binding agreement in accordance with international law; reiterates its call to move forward with the full implementation , in good faith and in a timely manner , of all the agreements already reached;


### 26. notes that five member states have not yet recognised kosovo , and reiterates its call for them to do so; stresses that recognition would be beneficial to the normalisation of relations between kosovo and serbia; ### 26. notes that five member states have not yet recognised kosovo , and reiterates its call for them to do so; stresses that recognition would be beneficial to the normalisation of relations between kosovo and serbia and condemns in this regard serbia’s non-recognition campaign against kosovo which led to several countries withdrawing their recognition;


### 28. reiterates its support for the initiative to establish the regional commission for the establishment of facts about war crimes and other gross human rights violations on the territory of the former yugoslavia (recom); ### 28. reiterates its support for the initiative to establish the regional commission for the establishment of facts about war crimes and other gross human rights violations on the territory of the former yugoslavia (recom); highlights the importance of the work carried out by the regional youth cooperation office (ryco) and welcomes kosovo’s active participation; reiterates the need to reach out to young people from the northern municipalities and to integrate them in the socio-economic structures of the country;


### 29. calls for more efforts in dealing with the requests of family members of missing persons , the opening of wartime archives , and for information to be revealed about people who are still listed as missing from the 1998-99 kosovo war; ### 29. calls for more efforts in dealing with the requests of family members of missing persons , the opening of wartime archives , and for information to be revealed about people who are still listed as missing from the 1998-99 kosovo war; urges the continued implementation of the kosovo prosecutorial council’s strategy on war crimes that is still severely hampered by political issues , a lack of resources and the lack of international and regional cooperation; underlines the importance of information on grave sites and convictions of all war crimes in order to provide justice for victims;


### 29. calls for more efforts in dealing with the requests of family members of missing persons , the opening of wartime archives , and for information to be revealed about people who are still listed as missing from the 1998-99 kosovo war; ### 29. calls for more efforts in dealing with the requests of family members of missing persons , the opening of all wartime archives , and for information to be revealed about people who are still listed as missing from the 1998-99 kosovo war;


### 31. stresses the need for urgent implementation of active labour market policies , including upskilling and on-the-job training , in order to increase employment of vulnerable groups; ### 31. stresses the need for urgent implementation of active labour market policies , including upskilling and on-the-job training , in order to increase employment of vulnerable groups; underlines that the training and education system should be reformed to cope with labour and market needs; reiterates the importance of creating further opportunities for youth and women;


### 32. emphasises the need for investing in digitalisation as a way of minimising the digital divide and ensuring equal access to the internet , including for the most vulnerable groups and rural areas; ### 32. welcomes the fact that kosovo will also benefit from the eu digital single market , and emphasises the need for investing in digitalisation as a way of improving services for citizens , minimising the digital divide and ensuring equal access to the internet , including for the most vulnerable groups and rural areas;


### 33. notes that the pandemic is putting the health system under stress; urges kosovo to strengthen the health sector in order to provide adequate and accessible primary health services for all citizens , in particular through needs-based social benefits for the groups most affected by the covid-19 crisis; ### 33. notes that the pandemic is putting the health system under stress; urges kosovo to strengthen the health sector in order to provide adequate and accessible health services for all citizens , in particular through needs-based social benefits for the groups most affected by the covid-19 crisis; notes that a high number of health professionals have left kosovo , mostly to eea countries , which is further worsening the lack of healthcare professionals;


### 34. calls on the authorities to ensure alignment with eu standards and policy objectives on climate protection and environment , in line with the commitments made under the paris agreement and the strategic objective of reaching carbon neutrality by 2050 as part of the european green deal , and asks the commission to include kosovo in the european green deal; ### 34. calls on the authorities to ensure alignment with eu standards and policy objectives on climate protection and environment , in line with the commitments made under the paris agreement and the strategic objective of reaching carbon neutrality by 2050 as part of the european green deal , and asks kosovo to work on the implementation of the green agenda for the western balkans , which mirrors european green deal priorities;


### 35. is deeply concerned that the overwhelming majority of energy in kosovo derives from coal power; urges kosovo to increase the sustainability of its energy sector by diversifying its sources , decentralising production and moving towards renewables; ### 35. is deeply concerned that the overwhelming majority of energy in kosovo derives from coal power , as well as at the plans to build a new coal power plant; urges kosovo to increase the sustainability of its energy sector by diversifying its energy sources , removing without delay all non-compliant coal subsidies , decentralising energy production and moving towards renewables; calls on kosovo to conduct environmental impact assessments of international standard and adopt necessary measures to preserve and protect environmentally sensitive areas;


### 36. expresses serious concern about the continuing high rate of premature deaths due to polluted air; urges the kosovo authorities to tackle air pollution immediately and phase out coal; ### 36. expresses serious concern about the continuing high rate of premature deaths due to polluted air stemming from the emissions exceeding the legally established ceilings for large combustion plants; urges the kosovo authorities to tackle air pollution immediately and phase out coal; calls on kosovo to implement its national emission reduction plan;


### 36. expresses serious concern about the continuing high rate of premature deaths due to polluted air; urges the kosovo authorities to tackle air pollution immediately and phase out coal; ### 36. expresses serious concern about the continuing high rate of premature deaths due to polluted air; urges the kosovo authorities to tackle air pollution immediately and phase out coal , acknowledging the recent revision of the energy sector strategy to address this issue;


### 37. encourages kosovo authorities to give more priority to the enforcement of environmental legislation and biodiversity standards; ### 37. encourages kosovo authorities to give more priority to the enforcement of environmental legislation and biodiversity standards , as well as to environmental awareness and education among kosovo citizens; encourages kosovo to adopt the law on climate change as soon as possible; calls on kosovo to develop and adopt an integrated national energy and climate plan without further delay;


### 38. calls on kosovo to implement credible and sustainable public transport and mobility policies for addressing long-standing infrastructure deficiencies , including regular public transport links to north mitrovica; ### 38. calls on kosovo to implement credible and sustainable public transport and mobility policies for addressing long-standing infrastructure deficiencies , including regular public transport links to north mitrovica and all major towns throughout the country;


### – having regard to the european council conclusions of 28 june 2018 , the council conclusions of 18 june 2019 and the european council conclusions of 17-18 october 2019 , which postponed the decisions on opening accession negotiations with north macedonia and albania , ### – having regard to the european council conclusions of 28 june 2018 , the council conclusions of 18 june 2019 and the european council conclusions of 17-18 october 2019 , which postponed the decisions on opening accession negotiations with the republic of north macedonia and the republic of albania ,


### – having regard to the treaty of friendship , good neighbourliness , and cooperation between bulgaria and the republic of north macedonia , signed on 1 august 2017 and ratified in january 2018 , ### – having regard to the treaty of friendship , good neighbourliness , and cooperation between the republic of bulgaria and the republic of north macedonia , signed on 1 august 2017 and ratified in january 2018 ,


### a. whereas north macedonia has made consistent progress on its path towards the eu; ### a. whereas north macedonia has made consistent progress on its path towards the eu , strengthening the mutual climate of confidence;


### b. whereas the country is maintaining a steady pace on the rule of law and functioning of democratic institutions and procedures; ### b. whereas the country is maintaining a steady pace in advancing eu reforms , in particular in key areas such as the rule of law , fight against corruption and organised crime , intelligence services , public administration and functioning of democratic institutions and procedures;


### 2. urges the authorities to sustain consensual efforts to strengthen democratic consolidation and the transformation process , fight against corruption , and restore the rule of law , while improving the climate for media and civil society; ### 2. urges the authorities to sustain consensual efforts to strengthen democracy and the transformation process , continue to fight against corruption , and to reinforce the rule of law , while improving the climate for media and civil society;


### 4. commends the steady steps in following up on the ‘urgent reform priorities’ and recommendations of the venice commission and the senior experts’ group on systemic rule of law issues; ### 4. commends the progress achieved in addressing the ‘urgent reform priorities’ and following up on the recommendations of the venice commission and the senior experts’ group on systemic rule of law issues;


### 7. urges the completion of measures to ensure judicial and prosecutorial professionalism , independence , integrity and accountability , including through an efficient implementation of codes of ethics and of the landmark law on the public prosecutor’s office , ensuring sustainable solutions for cases related to the special prosecutor’s office , and accountability for crimes stemming from the large-scale illegal wiretapping case; ### 7. urges the implementation of measures to ensure judicial and prosecutorial professionalism , independence , integrity and accountability , including through an efficient implementation of codes of ethics and of the landmark law on the public prosecutor’s office , ensuring sustainable solution for the cases of the special prosecutor’s office , and accountability for crimes stemming from the large-scale illegal wiretapping case;


### 8. encourages the conclusion of institutional reforms and the restructuring of the security and intelligence sectors; ### 8. encourages the conclusion of institutional reforms and the implementation of the ongoing reforms in the security and intelligence sectors , ensuring financial and operational independence of the new national security agency and a meaningful parliamentary oversight over secret services;


### 9. calls for continued efforts to tackle organised crime and corruption through effective dissuasion , prevention , detection , financial investigation and sanctions for money laundering , financial crimes and terrorism finance , along with operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks; ### 9. calls for continued efforts to tackle organised crime and corruption through effective dissuasion , prevention , detection , financial investigation and sanctions for money laundering , financial crimes and terrorism finance , along with operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks; urges to further align with the acquis and conduct systematic financial investigations , stepping up freezing , confiscation and management of illegally acquired assets;


### 10. welcomes the positive engagement of the country’s main political forces , enabling adoption of key legislation and a smooth electoral process; ### 10. recalls that a constructive role of the opposition is essential for functioning of the parliament and the adoption of key legislation , such as eu-related reforms and the nato integration process;


### 11. commends the fact that opposition parties remained engaged in the sobranie , the assembly of the republic of north macedonia , and supported key decisions in the common national interest; ### deleted


### 11. commends the fact that opposition parties remained engaged in the sobranie , the assembly of the republic of north macedonia , and supported key decisions in the common national interest; ### 11. commends the fact that opposition parties remained engaged in the sobranie , the assembly of the republic of north macedonia , and supported key decisions in the common national interest; is , however , worried by the growing use of nationalist and inflammatory rhetoric by some political actors and non-constructive attitudes of part of the opposition , in particular in relation to the recent process of amending the rules of procedures of the assembly;


### 13. underscores the need to improve the legislative process by minimising the use of fast track procedures , and by enabling proper consultations and impact assessments; recalls the need to upgrade the parliamentary rules of procedure by consensus; ### 13. urges the assembly to improve the legislative process by minimising the use of fast track procedures , increasing transparency , publishing information on law-making processes in a timely and inclusive manner , and conducting proper consultations and impact assessments; recalls the need to upgrade the parliamentary rules of procedure by consensus; reiterates the importance of cooperation with and sustainable funding for civil society in order to ensure a sound scrutiny of public institutions leading to the necessary checks and balances in a democratic society;


### 13. underscores the need to improve the legislative process by minimising the use of fast track procedures , and by enabling proper consultations and impact assessments; recalls the need to upgrade the parliamentary rules of procedure by consensus; ### 13. underscores the need to improve the legislative process by minimising the use of fast track procedures , and by enabling proper consultations and impact assessments; recalls the need to upgrade the parliamentary rules of procedure by consensus in order to empower the parliament and strengthen legislative , oversight and budgetary scrutiny mechanisms;


### 14. underlines the need to complete a timely , inclusive and comprehensive review of the electoral code; ### 14. underlines the need to complete a timely , inclusive and comprehensive review of the electoral legislation , by addressing the remaining recommendations of the osce/odihr and venice commission;


### 15. calls for additional measures to improve the transparency of political party financing; recalls the need to effectively implement the recommendations of the state audit office; ### 15. calls for additional measures to improve the transparency of political party financing and ensure democratic and competitive intra-party functioning mechanisms; recalls the need to effectively implement the recommendations of the state audit office;


### 18. welcomes the renewed adoption of anti-discrimination legislation , and urges the authorities to follow up with an inclusive and transparent process establishing an independent anti-discrimination commission , ensuring protection and inclusion of all marginalised groups; encourages the sobranie to adopt legislation which will enable a simplified , transparent and accessible procedure for legal gender recognition , and prevent discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity; ### 18. welcomes the renewed adoption of anti-discrimination legislation , and urges the authorities to follow up with an inclusive and transparent process establishing an independent anti-discrimination commission , ensuring protection and inclusion of all marginalised groups; encourages the sobranie to adopt legislation which will enable a simplified , transparent and accessible procedure based on self-determination for legal gender recognition , and prevent discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity; notes the organisation of the first-ever skopje pride in june 2019;


### 18. welcomes the renewed adoption of anti-discrimination legislation , and urges the authorities to follow up with an inclusive and transparent process establishing an independent anti-discrimination commission , ensuring protection and inclusion of all marginalised groups; encourages the sobranie to adopt legislation which will enable a simplified , transparent and accessible procedure for legal gender recognition , and prevent discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity; ### 18. welcomes the renewed adoption of anti-discrimination legislation , and urges the authorities to follow up with an inclusive and transparent process establishing an independent anti-discrimination commission , ensuring protection and inclusion of all marginalised groups; encourages the sobranie to adopt legislation which will enable a simplified , transparent and accessible procedure based on self-determination for legal gender recognition , and prevent discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity;


### 19. welcomes the steady improvement in ensuring meaningful and timely inclusion of civil society in the decision-making processes across different policy areas , as well as in safeguarding the financial sustainability of the non-governmental sector , and calls for further progress in these fields; ### 19. calls for further progress in ensuring meaningful and timely inclusion of civil society in the decision-making processes across different policy areas , as well as in safeguarding the financial sustainability of the non-governmental sector; notes with concern that during the pandemic , funds for civil society were cut in a budget restructuring; underlines that , while the government needs to address the unexpected consequences of the pandemic , budget restructuring should not be to the detriment of the sustainability of the civil society sector and without undertaking proper consultation processes;


### 21. calls on lawmakers in northern macedonia to take steps to ensure an adequate representation of women in all decision-making positions , and to further address the gender imbalance and gender pay gap in the labour force; ### 21. calls on lawmakers in north macedonia to take steps to ensure an adequate representation of women in all decision-making positions , and to further address the lack of implementation of women workers’ rights , gender stereotyping , gender imbalance and gender pay gap in the labour force; points to significant gender differences in participation and quality of work , insufficient action on sexual harassment in the workplace , discrimination in legal provisions related to maternity leave , and the lack of childcare and pre-school capacity;


### 21. calls on lawmakers in northern macedonia to take steps to ensure an adequate representation of women in all decision-making positions , and to further address the gender imbalance and gender pay gap in the labour force; ### 21. calls on lawmakers in north macedonia to take steps to ensure an adequate representation of women in all decision-making positions , following the positive trends in women’s representation in the parliament , facilitated by mandatory gender quotas , and to further address the gender imbalance and gender pay gap in the labour force;


### 22. welcomes the country’s efforts in improving cooperation on managing migration and addressing the needs of refugees , asylum seekers and migrants; recalls the need to establish a viable mechanism for managing irregular migratory flows , ensuring international protection and combating people smuggling networks; ### 22. welcomes the country’s efforts in improving cooperation on managing migration and addressing the needs of refugees , asylum seekers and migrants; recalls the need to establish a viable mechanism for managing irregular migratory flows , ensuring international protection and combating people smuggling networks , as well as adopting an effective approach for the prevention of refoulement , integration of migrants and the re-integration of returnees;


### 22. welcomes the country’s efforts in improving cooperation on managing migration and addressing the needs of refugees , asylum seekers and migrants; recalls the need to establish a viable mechanism for managing irregular migratory flows , ensuring international protection and combating people smuggling networks; ### 22. welcomes the country’s efforts in improving cooperation on managing migration and addressing the basic needs of refugees , asylum seekers and migrants; calls for further strengthening international protection of those in need; recalls the need to establish a viable mechanism for managing irregular migratory flows and combating people smuggling networks;


### 23. acknowledges that the generally favourable environment for freedom of expression and media independence must be enhanced through improved self-regulation , transparency of ownership and advertising market , while increasing financial sustainability and impartiality of public and private media outlets; ### 23. acknowledges that the generally favourable environment for freedom of expression and media independence must be enhanced through improved self-regulation , transparency of ownership and advertising market , while increasing financial sustainability and impartiality of public and private media outlets; stresses that public financing of media , including paid political advertising , must be transparent , follow clear criteria and engage all relevant stakeholders;


### 23. acknowledges that the generally favourable environment for freedom of expression and media independence must be enhanced through improved self-regulation , transparency of ownership and advertising market , while increasing financial sustainability and impartiality of public and private media outlets; ### 23. acknowledges that the generally favourable environment for freedom of expression and media independence must be enhanced through improved legal framework , self-regulation , transparency of ownership and advertising market , while increasing financial sustainability and impartiality of public and private media outlets , reducing political advertising and ensuring independent editorial policies;


### 24. encourages systemic media reforms that would reinvigorate competition , the independence of the public service broadcaster , and quality investigative journalism; ### 24. urges the assembly to unblock the stalemate on media reforms that would reinvigorate increase the independence and capacity of the media regulator and the public service broadcaster , and quality investigative journalism;


### 24. encourages systemic media reforms that would reinvigorate competition , the independence of the public service broadcaster , and quality investigative journalism; ### 24. encourages systemic media reforms that would reinvigorate competition , the independence of the public service broadcaster , media regulator and support investigative journalism;


### 25. commends steps enhancing media self-regulation and professional standards; ### 25. notes the steps taken to enhance media self-regulation through the register of professional online media and stepping-up professional standards through the charter on journalists’ working conditions and draft fair working contract for digital media;


### 26. urges the adoption of measures to safeguard the financial and operational independence of the public service broadcaster and the agency for audio and audiovisual media services; ### 26. urges the adoption of measures to safeguard the financial and operational independence of the public service broadcaster and the agency for audio and audiovisual media services , commends the agency’s efforts on monitoring transparency of media ownership and tackling the instances of hate speech , discrimination and threats against reporters;


### 27. calls for effective investigations into physical threats and verbal attacks against media professionals; ### 27. calls for effective investigations into physical threats and verbal attacks against media professionals and further improvement of the legal framework in order to increase the safety of journalists , including by tackling impunity of perpetrators;


### 27. calls for effective investigations into physical threats and verbal attacks against media professionals; ### 27. calls for effective investigations into physical threats and verbal attacks against media professionals; urges to ensure a clear cleavage between a free public debate as opposed to hate speech , defamation or incitement to violence;


### 28. notes the significance of ensuring quality journalism and media literacy for tackling widespread disinformation and fake news; ### 28. notes the significance of ensuring quality journalism and media literacy for tackling widespread disinformation and fake news; urges the eeas to address disinformation and hybrid threats that seek to undermine the european perspective of the region by more strategically underscoring the eu’s relevance to citizens in the region; stresses the need to improve coordination in order to fight regional disinformation campaigns; reminds of the strong link between weaknesses in media freedom and opportunities for local and foreign actors to manipulate facts and spread disinformation; calls on the commission and the eeas to closely cooperate on those linkages and overlapping challenges , as well as to foster the creation of a balkan-focused centre of excellence on disinformation;


### 32. recalls that substantial efforts are still needed to meet the targets for energy efficiency , renewable energy , security of supply and emission reductions; ### 32. recalls that substantial efforts are still needed to meet the targets for energy efficiency , renewable energy , security of supply and emission reductions; emphasises the importance of tackling energy poverty;


### 34. welcomes continuous steps to ensure compliance with the obligations of the third energy package , and create an integrated regional energy market; ### 34. welcomes continuous steps to ensure compliance with the obligations of the third energy package , and create an integrated regional energy market through electricity and gas interconnectors with neighbouring countries;


### 35. recalls the potential of the economic and investment plan for the western balkans to enhance regional connectivity through rail corridor viii to bulgaria , and gas interconnectors to greece , kosovo and serbia; ### 35. recalls the potential of the economic and investment plan for the western balkans , notably to enhance regional connectivity through rail corridor viii to bulgaria , and the north macedonia-kosovo and north macedonia-serbia gas interconnectors;


### 35. recalls the potential of the economic and investment plan for the western balkans to enhance regional connectivity through rail corridor viii to bulgaria , and gas interconnectors to greece , kosovo and serbia; ### 35. recalls the potential of the economic and investment plan for the western balkans to enhance regional connectivity through rail corridor viii to bulgaria , and broader regional and cross-border cooperation; stresses that any investment must be in line with the objectives of the paris agreement and eu decarbonisation targets , and therefore calls upon the european commission to put forward ex ante environmental impact assessments for each individual project , with the obligation to terminate projects which are not in line with the european green deal and climate targets;


### 36. calls for political will to implement ambitious environmental protection and sustainable development plans; ### 36. calls for political will to implement ambitious environmental protection and sustainable development plans including through restrictions on hydropower development in protected areas , ensuring environmental liability and protecting biodiversity;


### 36. calls for political will to implement ambitious environmental protection and sustainable development plans; ### 36. calls for political will to implement ambitious environmental protection and sustainable development plans , including by setting up an integrated regional waste management system; urges the implementation of the paris agreement , including by developing a comprehensive climate strategy and adopting a law , consistent with the eu 2030 framework , and develop a national energy and climate plan , in line with energy community obligations;


### 37. reiterates its calls to address an alarming level of urban air pollution via a transition to sustainable energy , heating and transport; ### 37. reiterates its calls to address an alarming level of air pollution ,in particular in urban areas , via a transition to sustainable energy , heating and transport , as well as by improving inter-sectoral coordination and increasing financial resources for reduction of air pollution at the local and national level;


### 39. regrets that bulgaria and north macedonia have yet to find a compromise on issues related to history and language , trusts that they will soon be settled in order not to jeopardise the integration momentum , and looks forward to holding of the first intergovernmental conference , kick-starting the accession talks without a further delay; ### 39. regrets that bulgaria and north macedonia have yet to find a compromise on pending bilateral issues and recalls the importance of achieving tangible results in the implementing in good faith bilateral agreements as part of the enlargement process; encourages both sides to reach a compromise over a roadmap of concrete measures , which implementation will be assessed throughout the accession process; looks forward to the holding of the first intergovernmental conference as soon as possible after the adoption of the negotiating framework;