### 3. calls on the vice-president of the commission / high representative of the union for foreign affairs and security policy (vp/hr) to make sure that climate change is mainstreamed in the union’s external action; calls for climate-specific strategies , policies , procedures , measures and capabilities to be developed; calls on the vp/hr to make sure that the development of a union policy on climate security and defence entails the implementation of a human security approach; ### 3. calls on the vice-president of the commission / high representative of the union for foreign affairs and security policy (vp/hr) to make sure that climate change is mainstreamed in the union’s external action , following the example of the ndici regulation; calls for climate-specific strategies , policies , procedures , measures and capabilities to be developed; calls on the vp/hr to make sure that the development of a union policy on climate security and defence entails the implementation of a human security approach which involves the participation of diverse members of the local population in all stages of planning , implementation , monitoring and evaluation , and which includes environmental safeguarding , including protection of biodiversity and prevention of pollution;


### 4. calls for the development of concrete benchmarks to measure progress in addressing the links between climate change , on the one hand , and peace , conflict and the conflict and climate sensitivity of eu external action on the other; calls on the vp/hr to report on an annual basis to parliament on progress made; ### 4. calls for the development of concrete benchmarks to measure progress in addressing the links between climate change , on the one hand , and peace , conflict and the conflict and climate sensitivity of eu external action on the other; calls on the vp/hr to report on an annual basis to parliament on progress made using and meeting these benchmarks and indicators;


### 5. welcomes the climate diplomacy policy framework , the climate and defence roadmap (the ‘roadmap’) and the concept for an integrated approach on climate change and security; calls on the vp/hr to make sure that all different concepts are well connected and harmonised in a coherent and consistent framework; calls on the vp/hr to report on progress until june 2022; ### 5. welcomes the recent commission , council and eeas initiatives in the field of climate diplomacy , security and defence , in particular the climate diplomacy policy framework , the climate change and defence roadmap (the ‘roadmap’) and the concept for an integrated approach on climate change and security; calls on the vp/hr to make sure that all different concepts are well connected and harmonised in a coherent and consistent framework; stresses the need to make this a priority , and calls on the vp/hr to report on progress until june 2022;


### 6. underlines the importance of addressing the links between climate change , security and defence in the forthcoming strategic compass , with a view to identifying clear goals and concrete measures for member state; ### 6. underlines the importance of addressing the links between climate change , security and defence in the forthcoming strategic compass , with a view to identifying clear goals and concrete measures for member states to strengthen the energy efficiency of the armed forces and adapt to the comprehensive security effects of climate change in the medium to longer term , ranging from strategic foresight , training and innovation to capability development within the eu framework;


### 7. welcomes the roadmap and calls on the eeas to ensure , together with the relevant commission services and the eda , where appropriate , the comprehensive implementation of the three work strands – the operational dimension , capability development and partnerships; calls on the member states to develop national structures in support of the objectives; urges all actors to treat this process as a priority and to develop and implement initiatives in line with the integrated approach; stresses the need to assess the environmental footprint of armed forces , as proposed in the roadmap; urges the vp/hr to propose to the member states an immediate action programme which consists of prioritised actions presented in the roadmap which can be implemented in the short term; calls for the timeframes for reviewing the roadmap to be reconsidered and , in particular , for the overall objectives to be reviewed much earlier than 2030; ### 7. welcomes the roadmap and calls on the eeas to ensure , together with the relevant commission services and the eda , where appropriate , the comprehensive implementation of the three work strands – the operational dimension , capability development and partnerships; calls on the member states to develop national structures in support of the objectives; urges all actors to treat this process as a priority and to develop and implement initiatives in line with the integrated approach; stresses the important role of the armed forces with respect to adaption but also mitigating the effect on climate change and the environment , including by comprehensively measuring and mapping the environmental footprint of armed forces , as proposed in the roadmap; urges the vp/hr to propose to the member states an immediate action programme which consists of prioritised actions presented in the roadmap which can be implemented in the short term; calls for the timeframes for reviewing the roadmap to be reconsidered and , in particular , for the overall objectives to be reviewed much earlier than 2030;


### 8. welcomes the light-touch reporting process based on indicators of progress related to the environmental footprint , including energy , water , waste management , etc. , of csdp missions and operations; stresses the necessity to generate more detailed assessments by 2022; ### 8. welcomes in particular the roadmap’s immediate and short-term impact measures for 2020-2021 , in particular the development of a the light-touch reporting process – linked with the development of measurement capabilities - based on indicators of progress related to the environmental footprint , including energy , water , waste management , etc. , of csdp missions and operations; stresses the necessity to generate more detailed assessments , taking into account lessons learned and best practices , by 2023 and to incorporate stronger requirements for appropriate technical specific actions as part of procurement to mitigate a life-cycle approach as included in the 2012 military concept on environmental protection and energy efficiency for eu-led military operations; highlights the need to systematically include climate and environmental considerations into military technology , research , procurement and infrastructure;


### 9. calls on the vp/hr to present , by mid-2022 , an assessment of the carbon footprint and environmental impact of the eu’s external action; stresses the need to develop by 2022 a meaningful methodology to quantify the emissions from all eu security and defence activities; believes that the roadmap should be used to trigger clear national pledges to reduce military emissions , including mandatory military emissions reporting to the unfccc , as without reporting and transparency , there will be no pressure to cut emissions and no means of determining the impact of any pledges; ### 9. in order to lay the ground for contributing to climate mitigation , calls on the vp/hr to present , by mid-2022 , an assessment of the carbon footprint and environmental impact of the eu’s external action; stresses the need to develop by 2022 a meaningful methodology to quantify the greenhouse gas emissions from all eu security and defence activities , including emissions from manufacturing , possession and dismantling also in order to address the current lack of reliable and internationally comparable data; underlines the need to agree with nato on a common methodology as regards military activities and the measurement of its carbon footprint and to agree on precise reduction targets , pathways , and a timetable; believes that the roadmap should be used to trigger clear national pledges to reduce military emissions , including mandatory military emissions reporting to the unfccc and national parliaments , as without reporting and transparency , there will be no pressure to cut emissions and no means of determining the impact of any pledges;


### 10. strongly welcomes the fact that the union’s new global europe instrument (ndici) reflects well the urgency and importance of swift , strong and extensive external climate action; strongly welcomes the ndici climate security policy (see subsection b.1.(d) of annex iii to the ndici regulation); calls on the commission to prioritise actions seeking to achieve comprehensive and inclusive outcomes through linking climate mitigation and adaptation to conflict prevention and peacebuilding; stresses the need to include greater support for fragile and conflict-affected states in environmental governance , including institution-building; demands that the full potential for environmental peacebuilding be unleashed under the ndici peace , stability and conflict-prevention programme; ### 10. strongly welcomes the fact that the union’s new global europe instrument (ndici) reflects well the urgency and importance of swift , strong and extensive external climate action; welcomes in this regard that ndici mainstreams climate action and will make sure that 30% of its eur 80 billion seven year budget will support climate actions; calls on the commission to fully respect these targets and to include into its calculations only measures with a clear climate dimension; welcomes that investments in fossil fuels and measures having harmful or significant adverse effects on the environment and climate are excluded from funding; strongly welcomes the ndici climate security policy (see subsection b.1.(d) of annex iii to the ndici regulation); calls on the commission to prioritise actions seeking to achieve comprehensive and inclusive outcomes through linking climate mitigation and adaptation to conflict prevention and peacebuilding; welcomes ndici’s environment and climate change programme while stressing the need to include greater support for fragile and conflict-affected states in environmental governance , including institution-building; demands that the full potential for environmental peacebuilding be unleashed under the ndici peace , stability and conflict-prevention programme; believes that the ndici’s approach to climate security should be a point of reference for all other union external action and calls on the hr/vp to ensure that in particular csdp is synchronised with that approach;


### 11. underlines the need to boost the union’s strategic foresight , early-warning , situational awareness and conflict-analysis capacities using qualitative and quantitative data and innovative methods from various sources; underlines that , in addition to systematic cooperation with civil society organisations , the union’s space programmes and the joint research centre (jrc) should also contribute; ### 11. underlines the need to boost the union’s strategic foresight , early-warning , situational awareness and conflict-analysis capacities using qualitative and quantitative data and innovative methods from various sources; underlines that , in addition to systematic cooperation with civil society organisations , the union’s space programmes , satcen and intcen , the eeas’s conflict prevention unit , national research centres , think tanks , national intelligence services and the joint research centre (jrc) should also contribute to strategic foresight , peacebuilding , climate and conflict research; believes that it is of utmost importance that such knowledge is used to well design future missions , operations and actions taking into account parameters ranging from changing weather conditions to the local political context;


### 12. underlines that the principle of data-driven policy and programmes must be central to climate security programmes; is mindful , at the same time , of the limitations of big data approaches and quantitative environmental stress indices with regard to conflict prediction , as they risk paying too little attention to the local societal context; recalls the non-availability of reliable data in some fragile countries , also as a result of corruption and weak governance structures , in which case proxy data should be used instead; ### 12. underlines that the principle of data-driven policy and programmes must be central to climate security programmes; is mindful , at the same time , of the limitations of big data approaches and quantitative environmental stress indices with regard to conflict prediction , as they risk paying too little attention to the local societal context; recalls the non-availability of reliable data in some fragile countries , also as a result of corruption and weak governance structures , in which case proxy data should be used instead; believes that the knowledge and initiatives of local populations and civil society have a key role to play as part of the union’s efforts to address the effects of climate change on conflict;


### 13. stresses the importance of strengthening the resilience of communities , and that supporting local ownership and inclusive local governance structures is essential to ensure that efforts are sustainable; stresses that an inclusive and accountable approach towards local populations and which increases environmental protection and access to vital resources also increases the security of eu forces and personnel; ### 13. stresses that a case-by-case approach including regionally specific analyses and locally driven initiatives is needed which is adapted to the specific situation on the ground; stresses the importance of strengthening the resilience of communities , and that supporting local ownership and inclusive local governance structures is essential to ensure that efforts are sustainable; stresses that an inclusive and accountable approach towards local populations and which increases environmental protection and access to vital resources also increases the security of eu forces and personnel (mission security);


### 14. believes that environmental peace building should be reinforced , as it generates sustainable and fair solutions addressing the effects of climate change and can also present opportunities to build peace , while fostering dialogue and cooperation at the local , national and international level and presenting opportunities to adopt a transformational approach to address the root causes of conflict and structural drivers of marginalisation; stresses the need to increase pre-conflict mediation initiatives , including by means of higher levels of funding via ndici; ### 14. believes that environmental peace building should be reinforced , as it generates sustainable and fair solutions addressing the effects of climate change and can also present opportunities to build peace , while fostering dialogue and cooperation at the local , national and international level (e.g. on natural resource management , access to land and water , environmental protection , disaster risk reduction , welcoming climate refugees , etc.) and presenting opportunities to adopt a transformational approach to address the root causes of conflict and structural drivers of marginalisation; stresses the need to increase pre-conflict mediation initiatives , including by means of higher levels of funding via ndici; stresses the need to address the environment throughout the cycle of conflict , and to also address the post-conflict situation in an appropriate manner as it can leave populations more vulnerable to environmental risk or lead to a rise of environmental crime or devastation (e.g. deforestation) in ungoverned spaces;


### 16. proposes the nomination of an eu special representative on climate , peace and conflict (eusr cpc) , who should coordinate the union’s external action in this regard , support the mainstreaming of climate sensitivity across institutions , oversee the implementation of specific actions and promote the development of internal capacities , expertise and knowledge; underlines that the eusr cpc should propose relevant initiatives to the vp/hr , the commission and the council , and should regularly brief parliament; stresses the need to deploy climate security experts to eu delegations; ### 16. proposes the nomination of an eu special representative on climate , peace and conflict (eusr cpc) , who should coordinate the union’s external action in this regard , support the mainstreaming of climate sensitivity across institutions , oversee the implementation of specific actions and promote the development of internal capacities , expertise and knowledge; underlines that the eusr cpc should propose relevant initiatives to the vp/hr , the commission and the council , and should regularly brief parliament; stresses the need to deploy climate security experts to eu delegations and to the csdp missions and operations , encouraging member states to support this efforts by providing such experts; proposes to specifically task eu delegations to enhance reporting about the governance of land and natural resources as well as connected socioeconomic and political developments; underlines the importance to also task the eusr cpc with closely monitoring the situation in regions which are heavily affected by climate change and environmental degradation , such as the sahel , the horn of africa and the pacific , and with developing mechanisms to monitor , evaluate , document and communicate publicly on the impact , the lessons learned and the best practices of efforts to achieve comprehensive outcomes through linking climate adaptation and peacebuilding;


### 17. strongly believes that there is an urgent need to mandate all csdp missions and operations and all european peace facility (epf) actions to contribute to the integrated approach for addressing climate security challenges , in particular in the sahel and horn of africa regions , in order to raise the likelihood of successfully attaining the missions’ objectives; ### 17. strongly believes that there is urgency for member states to mandate all csdp missions and operations and all european peace facility (epf) actions to contribute to the integrated approach for addressing climate security challenges , in particular in the sahel and horn of africa regions , in order to raise the likelihood of successfully attaining the missions’ objectives;


### 18. highlights that csdp missions and operations and epf actions can contribute to enhancing the climate resilience of their host countries and stresses that a positive legacy in terms of their local footprint should be included in particular in their exit strategies , without jeopardising mission effectiveness or the security of own personnel; ### 18. highlights that csdp missions and operations and epf actions can contribute to enhancing the climate resilience of their host countries and stresses that a positive legacy in terms of their local footprint should be included in particular in their exit strategies , without jeopardising mission effectiveness or the security of own personnel; underlines that reducing the operational dependency on fossil fuels brings benefits in operational efficiency and effectiveness , including enhancing the safety of mission personnel by reducing logistical supply chains , and strengthening the credibility of csdp engagement in light of the eu’s global climate leadership;


### 19. stresses the need to design mission infrastructure and a supply-chain that are climate- and environment-sensitive and as carbon-neutral as possible , and that make use of new technology such as mobile solar systems , in particular for static features; ### 19. calls on the eeas to guarantee that civilian and military missions and operations as well as other external action measures are climate-sensitive and gender-sensitive and conflict-sensitive by design; underlines the urgent need to prevent that union activities in fragile third countries contribute to scarcity of resources , rising prices of vital resources , or environmental degradation and pollution; stresses the need to design mission infrastructure and a supply-chain that are climate- and environment-sensitive and as energy-optimised and carbon-neutral as possible , and that make use of new technology such as mobile solar systems , in particular for static features;


### 20. stresses the need to strengthen the eu’s environmental peacebuilding and climate security by including tasks and support efforts relating to mediation , dialogue , the protection of civilians , conflict resolution and reconciliation in order to ease climate-induced tensions between different communities competing over scarce resources , such as farmland or water , and which easily strengthen violent armed and extremist groups or transform into armed conflicts or even inter-state wars; proposes that new missions could focus on the following: ### 20. stresses the need to strengthen the eu’s environmental peacebuilding and climate security by including tasks and support efforts relating to mediation , dialogue , the protection of civilians , conflict resolution and reconciliation in order to ease climate-induced tensions between different communities competing over scarce resources , such as farmland or water , and which easily strengthen violent armed and extremist groups or transform into armed conflicts or even inter-state wars; highlights the need to develop new missions and measures which complement and strengthen efforts carried out and supported through other instruments and aim at reducing tensions and conflict , also on the very local , community level; stresses , in this regard , that new missions should , inter alia , focus on integrated peacebuilding , environmental peacebuilding , and climate adaptation measures as well as boosting civilian conflict prevention capacities; proposes that new missions could focus on the following:


### 21. states that all military capabilities and services used by the union should contribute to reaching the eu’s climate targets and adapt to increasingly challenging climate conditions in order to be able , inter alia , to guarantee the fulfilment of their tasks at home and abroad; ### 21. states that all military capabilities and services used by the union should contribute to reaching the eu’s climate targets and adapt to increasingly challenging climate conditions in order to be able , inter alia , to guarantee the fulfilment of their tasks at home and abroad; as regards climate adaptation , believes there is an urgent need for member states’ armed forces to adapt their capabilities to increasingly challenging climate conditions;


### 22. underlines that an increase in defence expenditure should not lead to an increase in emissions , and that part of defence spending should be dedicated to investments in instruments that significantly reduce emissions; recalls that eu and nato military strategists and planners have been working on the question of how armed forces can reduce their carbon footprint for more than a decade; welcomes , in this respect , the eda’s activities , in particular the go green policy it launched in 2012 , its military green concept and its working group on the circular economy , and calls for an acceleration and broadening of such projects and for an independent external evaluation thereof; ### 22. underlines that an increase in defence expenditure should not lead to an increase in emissions , and that part of defence spending should be dedicated to investments in technologies and capabilities that significantly reduce emissions underlining that climate and environmental considerations have become a key driving factor; recalls that eu and nato military strategists and planners have been working on the question of how armed forces can reduce their carbon footprint for more than a decade; recalls that a reduced energy footprint and fuel demand has also a positive effect on mission security and efficiency; welcomes , in this respect , the eda’s activities , in particular the go green policy , its military green concept , its environmental working group , its consultation forum for sustainable energy in the defence sector and , and its incubation forum on circular economy in european defence; calls for an acceleration and broadening of such projects and for an independent external evaluation thereof;


### 23. notes that the eda has concluded that the subsequent reduction in fossil fuel consumption cuts costs , decreases emissions and reduces dependencies on non-european sources , and that the number of casualties can be reduced significantly given that there are far fewer fuel convoys for adversaries to target , thereby freeing up resources that are used to protect convoys , and that overall capabilities are made more effective through enhanced endurance , mobility and autonomy; ### 23. notes that the eda has concluded that the subsequent reduction in fossil fuel consumption cuts costs , decreases emissions and reduces dependencies on non-european sources , and that the number of casualties can be reduced significantly given that there are far fewer fuel convoys for adversaries to target , thereby freeing up resources that are used to protect convoys , and that overall capabilities are made more effective through enhanced endurance , mobility and autonomy; underlines that a high fossil fuel demand and long supply routes drive the costs for missions and operations and increase the security risk for mission personnel and contractors;


### 24. calls on dg defis , the member states , the eeas and the eda to adopt an approach incorporating a low energy , carbon and environmental footprint by design when implementing relevant eu funds and to regularly report on progress; welcomes , in this respect , the fact that 30 % of the european defence fund aims to contribute to climate action; welcomes the relevant investment of eur 133 million provided for in the first annual work programme , but notes that this represents only 11 % of the overall annual edf budget; ### 24. calls on dg defis , the member states , the eeas and the eda to adopt an approach incorporating a low energy , carbon and environmental footprint by design when implementing relevant eu funds and to regularly report on progress; underlines that following a coordinated eu-level approach is particularly important when launching research , development , modernisation , or pooling and sharing initiatives in particular as regards military , and dual-use technology and capabilities; recalls that it is strategically important to develop all technological aspects and to address the whole life cost together with eu-level standardisation and certification to ensure that equipment is fit to tackle the effects of the climate crisis; welcomes , in this respect , the fact that 30 % of the european defence fund aims to contribute to climate action; welcomes the relevant investment of eur 133 million provided for in the first annual work programme , but notes that this represents only 11 % of the overall annual edf budget;


### 25. underlines the need to significantly increase investments in ‘green’ defence , in particular by dedicating a higher share of military r&d funded from the eu budget to carbon-neutral fuels and propulsion systems for military aircraft , ships and other vehicles , in particular as regards future major weapons systems (e.g. the future combat air system (fcas) and the european main battle tank (embt)); underlines that , given the dual nature of such investments , they have strong positive spill-over effects in the civilian sector , in particular for the ailing civil aviation industry; believes that the electrification of military technology should be further promoted and extensively financed via the edf , in particular as regards weapons systems , but also in terms of housing , barracks and related heating or cooling systems; ### 25. underlines the need to significantly increase investments in ‘green’ defence , in particular by dedicating a higher share of military r&d funded from the eu budget to carbon-neutral fuels and propulsion systems for military aircraft , ships and other vehicles , in particular as regards future major weapons systems (e.g. the future combat air system(fcas) and the european main battle tank (embt)); states that is imperative to start now by investing massively into research and development of carbon neutral fuels and propulsion systems for military vehicles on land , sea and air; underlines that , given the dual nature of such investments , they have strong positive spill-over effects in the civilian sector , in particular for the ailing civil aviation industry looking for less energy intensive and more cost-effective business models and technologies; believes that the electrification of military technology should be further promoted and extensively financed including via the edf , in particular as regards weapons systems , but also in terms of housing , barracks and related heating or cooling systems , be it in member states or as regards military camps when deployed;


### 26. calls on the member states to consider the feasibility of pesco for setting up a corps of military engineers to focus on addressing climate-induced natural disasters and the protection of critical infrastructure in fragile countries; ### 26. believes it is time to develop new permanent structured cooperation (pesco) projects aiming at setting standards and benchmarks concerning energy efficiency , creating new capabilities or pooling and modernising existing ones; calls on the member states to consider the feasibility of using pesco for setting up a corps of military engineers to focus on addressing climate-induced natural disasters and the protection of critical infrastructure in fragile countries; stresses the importance of including periodical reviews for assessing progress of such projects and addressing shortcomings as early as possible;


### 29. welcomes the stated ambition of nato secretary-general stoltenberg that nato reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050; underlines the fact that 22 member states are nato members and calls on the vp/hr to make sure that emission reduction objectives , benchmarks and methodologies are synchronised , as member states have only a single set of forces and cannot afford to have different eu and nato standards or the duplication of forces; believes that nato and the eu should decide to treat climate security as a new area for cooperation and concrete actions; ### 29. welcomes the stated ambition of nato heads of state and governments of 14june 2021 that nato reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050; underlines the fact that 22 member states are nato members and calls on the vp/hr to make sure that emission reduction objectives , benchmarks and methodologies are synchronised , between member states as they have only a single set of forces; believes that nato and the eu should decide to treat climate security as a new area for cooperation and concrete actions; call in this respect also for better anticipation of ‘green’ interoperability between members states of both nato and eu especially as concerns fuels for engines used by military vehicles; calls more specifically for climate change and security to be included as a new and very concrete area of cooperation into the 3rd joint declaration of eu and nato;


### — having regard to the statement of preliminary findings and conclusions of the osce office for democratic institutions and human rights (odihr) international election observation mission to the parliamentary elections of 30 august 2020 in montenegro , issued on 31 august 2020 , ### — having regard to the statement of preliminary findings and conclusions of the osce office for democratic institutions and human rights (odihr) international election observation mission to the parliamentary elections of 30 august 2020 in montenegro , issued on 11 december 2020 ,


### e. whereas the parliamentary elections of 30 august 2020 have resulted in the first transition of power in a democratic setting in the country; ### e. whereas the parliamentary elections of 30 august 2020 have resulted in the first transition of power in a democratic setting in the country , thus possibly being a step to overcome state capture;


### e. whereas the parliamentary elections of 30 august 2020 have resulted in the first transition of power in a democratic setting in the country; ### e. whereas the parliamentary elections of 30 august 2020 have resulted in the first transition of power in a democratic setting in the country since restoring independence in 2006;


### 2. welcomes the opening of chapter 8 (competition policy) and montenegro’s decision to accept the principles of the revised enlargement methodology; calls in particular for meeting the interim benchmarks for chapters 23 and 24 , which will be the next milestone; recalls that only three chapters have been provisionally closed since the opening of the first chapter in december 2012 , and encourages a clear focus on working to address the closing benchmarks in all other chapters; ### 2. welcomes the opening of chapter 8 (competition policy) and montenegro’s decision to accept the principles of the revised enlargement methodology; calls in particular for efficiently meeting the interim benchmarks for chapters 23 and 24; recalls that only three chapters have been provisionally closed since the opening of the first chapter in december 2012 , and encourages a clear focus on working to address the closing benchmarks in all other chapters;


### 3. notes that the 30 august 2020 elections resulted in the first transition of power since the country’s independence , in full respect of democratic standards and montenegro’s constitution; ### 3. notes that the 30 august 2020 elections resulted in the first transition of power since the country’s independence , in full respect of democratic standards and montenegro’s constitution; regrets that this election process was yet again marked by accusations of foreign influence on the outcome of the elections;


### 3. notes that the 30 august 2020 elections resulted in the first transition of power since the country’s independence , in full respect of democratic standards and montenegro’s constitution; ### 3. welcomes that the 30 august 2020 elections resulted in the first transition of power since the country’s independence , in full respect of democratic standards and montenegro’s constitution; positively notes that the election results were not contested and that all elected parliamentarians have actually resumed their duty;


### 4. welcomes the fact that on its first working day , the newly formed montenegrin government held an exchange of views with members of the european parliament and eu officials; encourages the new government to use its mandate to accelerate eu-related reforms and accession negotiations; ### 4. welcomes the fact that on its first working day , the newly formed montenegrin government held an exchange of views with members of the european parliament and eu officials; encourages the new government to use its mandate to accelerate eu-related reforms and accession negotiations; commends the montenegrin government for their explicit commitment to further pursue eu integration and to strengthen the transatlantic alliance;


### 5. stresses the need for cooperative and constructive cohabitation between the president and the new government with a view to enhancing montenegro’s progress on its eu path; ### 5. stresses the need for cooperative and constructive cohabitation between the president and the new government with a view to enhancing montenegro’s progress on its eu path and strengthening further democratic progress of the country; calls on all parties to abide by democratic and constitutional principles in overcoming political and ideological differences;


### 5. stresses the need for cooperative and constructive cohabitation between the president and the new government with a view to enhancing montenegro’s progress on its eu path; ### 5. stresses the need for cooperative and constructive cohabitation between the president and the new government , as well as the new parliament , with a view to enhancing montenegro’s progress on its eu path; highlights that all elected representatives have the responsibility to make this relation operational;


### 7. commends montenegro’s progress in several areas of the accession negotiations , including international police cooperation and the fight against human trafficking; calls on the authorities to accelerate political and economic reforms , particularly on the rule of law , the judiciary , media freedom and the fight against corruption , where further significant progress has to be made; ### 7. commends montenegro’s progress in several areas of the accession negotiations , including international police cooperation and the fight against human trafficking; calls on the authorities to accelerate political and economic reforms , particularly on the rule of law and fundamental rights , the judiciary , media freedom and the fight against corruption , where further significant progress has to be made;


### 7. commends montenegro’s progress in several areas of the accession negotiations , including international police cooperation and the fight against human trafficking; calls on the authorities to accelerate political and economic reforms , particularly on the rule of law , the judiciary , media freedom and the fight against corruption , where further significant progress has to be made; ### 7. commends montenegro’s progress in several areas of the accession negotiations , including international police cooperation and the fight against human trafficking and organized crime; calls on the authorities to accelerate political and economic reforms , particularly on the rule of law , the judiciary , media freedom and the fight against corruption , where further significant progress has to be made;


### 8. calls for the active engagement and appropriate inclusion of the western balkans countries in the conference on the future of europe; ### 8. calls for the active engagement and appropriate inclusion of the western balkans countries , including civil society as well as youth , in the conference on the future of europe;


### 12. reiterates the importance of accelerating work on the implementation of the action plans for chapters 23 and 24 and other strategic documents relating to the rule of law , in particular through effective cross-party dialogue aimed at ensuring the required qualified majority for key judicial and prosecutorial appointments; ### 12. reiterates the importance of accelerating work on the implementation of the action plans for chapters 23 and 24 and other strategic documents relating to the rule of law , in particular through effective cross-party dialogue aimed at ensuring the required qualified majority for key judicial and prosecutorial appointments; regrets that the working group on chapter 24 has not met over the past year and calls for an inclusive process with the participation of representatives of the non-governmental sector in this working group;


### 12. reiterates the importance of accelerating work on the implementation of the action plans for chapters 23 and 24 and other strategic documents relating to the rule of law , in particular through effective cross-party dialogue aimed at ensuring the required qualified majority for key judicial and prosecutorial appointments; ### 12. reiterates the importance of accelerating work on the implementation of the action plans for chapters 23 and 24 and other strategic documents relating to the rule of law , in particular through effective cross-party dialogue aimed at ensuring the required qualified majority for key judicial and prosecutorial appointments; expresses concern for the fact that the working group on chapter 24 has not met over the past year and calls for the participation of representatives of the non-governmental sector in these working groups;


### 12. reiterates the importance of accelerating work on the implementation of the action plans for chapters 23 and 24 and other strategic documents relating to the rule of law , in particular through effective cross-party dialogue aimed at ensuring the required qualified majority for key judicial and prosecutorial appointments; ### 12. reiterates the importance of accelerating work on the implementation of the action plans for chapters 23 and 24 and other strategic documents relating to the rule of law and fundamental rights , in particular through effective cross-party dialogue aimed at ensuring the required qualified majority for key judicial and prosecutorial appointments , as well as improving the work through conducting public and expert consultations concerning changes of key legislation;


### 15. welcomes the fact that some progress has been made in the fight against organised crime , in particular as regards stronger capacity and professionalism of the police; underlines that systemic deficiencies in the criminal justice system remain and need to be addressed as a matter of priority; ### 15. notes the fact that some progress has been made in the fight against organised crime , in particular as regards stronger capacity and professionalism of the police; underlines that systemic deficiencies in the criminal justice system remain and need to be addressed as a matter of priority; urges the authorities to put in place concrete measures to limit the use of plea bargains to exceptional cases in order to enhance the transparency and the credibility of the judicial response to organised crime through a more deterrent and consistent sanctioning policy;


### 16. is seriously concerned about the limited progress in the fight against corruption , and calls on the institutions responsible to improve the country’s track record in the confiscation of criminal assets , prosecutions and final convictions; ### 16. is seriously concerned about the limited progress in the fight against corruption , and calls on the institutions responsible , especially the prosecution , to significantly improve the country’s track record in the confiscation of criminal assets , prosecutions and final convictions , in particular for high-level cases , by substantially improving quality and independence of the criminal investigation and law enforcement;


### 18. welcomes the efforts to implement public administration reform (par) and the results already achieved; is concerned by the findings that party membership still influences employment in the montenegrin public sector; calls on the montenegrin authorities to continue their efforts to create an efficient public administration and to retain expertise , in particular on the eu accession process; ### 18. welcomes the efforts to implement public administration reform (par); is concerned by the findings that party membership still strongly influences employment in the montenegrin public sector; calls on the montenegrin authorities to redouble their efforts to create an efficient public administration and to retain expertise , in particular on the eu accession process , and in that respect welcomes transparent appointment procedures , such as the process of appointment of the acting director of the police directorate;


### 18. welcomes the efforts to implement public administration reform (par) and the results already achieved; is concerned by the findings that party membership still influences employment in the montenegrin public sector; calls on the montenegrin authorities to continue their efforts to create an efficient public administration and to retain expertise , in particular on the eu accession process; ### 18. welcomes the efforts to implement public administration reform (par) and the results already achieved; is concerned by the findings that party membership still influences employment in the montenegrin public sector and in that respect calls on the new government of montenegro to avoid politically-motivated dismissals of professionals; calls on the montenegrin authorities to continue their efforts to create an efficient public administration and to retain expertise , in particular on foreign affairs and the eu accession process;


### 19. notes the upcoming population and housing census in montenegro , and calls on the institutions responsible to hold it in line with european standards and international recommendations; ### 19. notes the upcoming population and housing census in montenegro , and calls on the institutions responsible to hold it in line with european standards and international recommendations and urges to avoid any politicisation of the process;


### 20. deplores the state of freedom of expression and media freedom , an area in which five successive commission reports have noted ‘no progress’; strongly condemns all types of attacks against the media and intimidation of journalists , and calls for the urgent and effective investigation of these; urges montenegro to provide conditions conducive to the effective exercise of freedom of expression , which is one of the eu’s fundamental values and a crucial element of montenegro’s eu accession process; ### 20. deplores the state of freedom of expression and media freedom , an area in which five successive commission reports have noted ‘no progress’ , especially when it comes to the work of the public broadcasting service rtcg; strongly condemns all types of attacks against the media and intimidation of journalists , and calls for the urgent and effective investigation of these , including past cases , in order to end impunity of crimes against journalists; urges montenegro to provide conditions conducive to the effective exercise of freedom of expression , which is one of the eu’s fundamental values and a crucial element of montenegro’s eu accession process;


### 21. underlines that media literacy and media freedom are key to combating disinformation; calls for the strengthening of european cooperation with montenegro on addressing disinformation , and cyber and hybrid threats; ### 21. underlines that media literacy and media freedom are key to combating disinformation; calls for the strengthening of european cooperation with montenegro on addressing cyber threats; 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;


### 22. strongly condemns verbal and physical attacks against and intimidation of national minorities , especially in pljevlja following the august 2020 parliamentary elections; ### 22. strongly condemns verbal and physical attacks against and intimidation of national minorities , especially in pljevlja following the august 2020 parliamentary elections; calls for a thorough investigation of all accusations related to foreign interference in the census procedure and urges to pay special attention to issues related to the national and ethnic affiliation of montenegrin citizens;


### 22. strongly condemns verbal and physical attacks against and intimidation of national minorities , especially in pljevlja following the august 2020 parliamentary elections; ### 22. strongly condemns verbal and physical attacks against and intimidation of national minorities , especially in pljevlja following the august 2020 parliamentary elections; urges montenegrin authorities to thoroughly investigate all those incidents and bring the perpetrators to justice;


### 23. takes note of the law on domestic violence protection , and asks for its thorough implementation as gender-based , domestic violence and violence against children remain an issue of serious concern; ### 23. takes note of the law on domestic violence protection and its current changes , and asks for its thorough implementation , including the allocation of sufficient resources , as gender-based , domestic violence and violence against children remain an issue of serious concern , which has been exacerbated during the covid 19 pandemic; urges the authorities to ensure a thorough implementation of the istanbul convention standards , to launch public awareness-raising campaigns to encourage the reporting of domestic violence , to increase the number of well-trained and gender-sensitive law enforcement officers and judges as to ensure the proper investigation and prosecution of such crimes , and to introduce effective measures against sexual harassment , including at the work place;


### 23. takes note of the law on domestic violence protection , and asks for its thorough implementation as gender-based , domestic violence and violence against children remain an issue of serious concern; ### 23. takes note of the law on domestic violence protection , and asks for its thorough implementation as gender-based , domestic violence and violence against children remain an issue of serious concern; calls on the new government to continue the practice of coordination and consultation when adopting and/or amending laws related to the eu acquis;


### 24. welcomes progress on the protection of lgbti rights and the adoption of the law on same-sex partnerships; ### 24. welcomes progress on the protection of the rights of lgbti persons and the adoption of the law on same-sex partnerships and calls on authorities to ensure all necessary conditions for its adequate and timely implementation; stresses that the situation of transgender and non-binary persons needs to be improved; urges the collection of disaggregated data relating to hate speech and crime based on sexual orientation and gender identity as recommended by ecri and calls for their effective sanctioning;


### 24. welcomes progress on the protection of lgbti rights and the adoption of the law on same-sex partnerships; ### 24. welcomes progress on the protection of lgbti rights and welcomes the fact that montenegro is the first country in the region to adopt a law on same-sex partnerships; encourages the government to ensure the implementation of this law and to combat homophobia and discrimination of lgbti individuals in all aspects of society;


### 28. commends montenegro’s progress on and renewed commitment to international police cooperation , and encourages it to continue its efforts to cope with the migratory pressure , by further developing its international cooperation on readmission and raising its capacity to prosecute migrant-smuggling networks; ### 28. commends montenegro’s progress on and renewed commitment to international police cooperation , and encourages montenegro to continue efforts raising its capacity to prosecute internationally operating criminal networks , with a particular focus on the fight against money laundering , human and drug trafficking;


### 30. encourages montenegro to intensify work on better aligning the education system with the labour market in order to more effectively tackle the phenomena of skills mismatch and brain drain among young people; ### 30. encourages montenegro to intensify work on better aligning the education system with the labour market in order to more effectively tackle the phenomena of skills mismatch and brain drain among young people; calls on the montenegrin authorities to strive for an open and transparent human resource policy in public administration and especially in the national health system;


### 31. notes with concern the impact of the covid-19 pandemic on montenegro’s economy; calls on the government to carry on a responsible macroeconomic and fiscal policy in view of the high public debt; encourages the authorities to make the best use of eu assistance in order to mitigate the impact of the crisis; ### 31. notes with concern the impact of the covid-19 pandemic on montenegro’s economy; calls on the government to carry on a responsible macroeconomic and fiscal policy in view of the high public debt; encourages the authorities to make the best use of eu assistance in order to mitigate the impact of the crisis , including developing and implementing targeted measures to mitigate the impact of the pandemic on marginalised communities and vulnerable people;


### 31. notes with concern the impact of the covid-19 pandemic on montenegro’s economy; calls on the government to carry on a responsible macroeconomic and fiscal policy in view of the high public debt; encourages the authorities to make the best use of eu assistance in order to mitigate the impact of the crisis; ### 31. notes with concern the impact of the covid-19 pandemic on montenegro’s economy; calls on the government to carry on in close cooperation with parliament a responsible macroeconomic and fiscal policy in view of the high public debt; calls for a more transparent and timely national budgeting process; encourages the authorities to make the best use of eu assistance in order to mitigate the impact of the crisis;


### 32. reiterates that the european union has swiftly mobilised substantial support for the western balkans to tackle the covid-19 pandemic health emergency and the socio-economic recovery of the region; ### 32. reiterates that the european union has swiftly mobilised substantial support for the western balkans to tackle the covid-19 pandemic health emergency and the socio-economic recovery of the region; calls on montenegrin authorities to take into strong consideration the needs of the most vulnerable groups in society such as women , roma and lgbti persons , people with disabilities and other minorities when creating and implementing covid-19 socio-economic relief measures;


### 33. calls on the commission and the council to include montenegro in joint eu procurement for vaccinations , and to allocate a sufficient amount of covid-19 vaccines to the citizens of all western balkan countries; ### 33. calls on the commission and the council to include montenegro in joint eu procurement for vaccinations , and to allocate a sufficient amount of covid-19 vaccines to the people present in all western balkan countries;


### 34. encourages montenegro to make best use of the commission’s economic and investment plan for the western balkans; recognises its importance in supporting sustainable connectivity , human capital , competitiveness and inclusive growth in the region; ### 34. welcomes the commission’s efforts to invest more strategically in the western balkans through a dedicated economic and investment plan (eip) and encourages montenegro to make the best use of it; recognises the eip's importance in supporting sustainable connectivity , human capital , competitiveness and inclusive growth in the region , while stressing that any investment must be in line with the objectives of the paris agreement and eu decarbonisation targets;


### 35. welcomes montenegro’s progress in diversifying its electricity production towards renewable sources , as well as its active participation in the western balkans connectivity agenda; ### 35. welcomes montenegro’s progress in diversifying its electricity production towards renewable sources and exceeding its overall 2020 renewables target and sectorial targets for electricity and heating and cooling , as well as its active participation in the western balkans connectivity agenda; invites montenegro to introduce streamlined and simplified rules for facilitating the further deployment of renewable projects; commends montenegro’s decision to discontinue financial support for small hydropower plants that do not follow appropriate environmental standards; invites montenegro to comply with the energy community rules on the further operation of the pljevlja coal power plant;


### 35. welcomes montenegro’s progress in diversifying its electricity production towards renewable sources , as well as its active participation in the western balkans connectivity agenda; ### 35. welcomes montenegro’s progress in diversifying its electricity production towards renewable sources and exceeding its overall 2020 renewables target and sectorial targets for electricity , heating and cooling , as well as its active participation in the western balkans connectivity agenda; invites montenegro to introduce streamlined and simplified rules for facilitating the further deployment of renewable projects;


### 36. welcomes the positive developments in further aligning montenegro’s national environmental and climate change legislation with the acquis; calls on the authorities to take urgent measures to better safeguard protected areas and potential natura 2000 sites; ### 36. welcomes the positive developments in further aligning montenegro’s national environmental and climate change legislation with the acquis; commends montenegro for protecting the zeta river as a nature park; calls on the authorities to take urgent measures to truly protect and sustainably manage protected areas and potential natura 2000 sites by designing and implementing protected area management plans and by providing adequate resources for their implementation; calls on the authorities to include local communities in the implementation of environmental , climate and energy policies in the country; recommends to implement the protected area plan for sinjajevina highlands based on the eu-funded 2016 study of the environment protection agency of montenegro by including full participation of the local community;


### 1. acknowledges that churches , faith-based organisations (fbos) and religious associations have a major role in the social fabric of developing countries , are important partners in delivering humanitarian assistance to hard-to-reach communities and greatly contribute to sustainable development and to achieving the sdgs , in particular sdgs 3 and 4; further notes that churches and fbos deliver in social sectors where shortcomings in state services are experienced; ### 1. acknowledges that civil society as a whole has a major role in the social fabric of developing countries , is an important partner in delivering humanitarian assistance to hard-to-reach communities and greatly contribute to sustainable development and to achieving the sdgs , in particular social services corresponding to sdgs 3 (good health and well-being) and 4 (quality education);


### 2. recognises that fbos cover approximately 40 % of healthcare and a significant part of education in sub-saharan africa alone1 , while their role remains mostly unrecognised; ### deleted


### 3. notes that churches and fbos are frequently the only providers of healthcare and other social services in remote areas of sub-saharan africa and in conflict-prone settings such as northern mozambique and other crisis zones; ### deleted


### 4. welcomes the activities of churches and religious leaders in the field of conflict management and mediation , and in fostering reconciliation , dialogue and peace; highlights that inter-religious dialogue is crucial , notably in conflict areas , to foster peace and reconciliation; ### 4. welcomes the activities of inter-faith initiatives , including non-religious , secular , humanists and atheists organisations in the field of conflict management and mediation , and in fostering reconciliation , dialogue and peace; highlights that such inter-faith dialogue is crucial , notably in conflict areas , to foster peace and reconciliation;


### 5. calls on the commission and the council to make the fight against the persecution of religious minorities a priority in the programming of activities related to eu development assistance , in line with the areas of cooperation for geographic and thematic programmes of ndici-global europe; ### 5. calls on the commission and the council to make the fight against the persecution of minorities on the grounds of religion or belief a priority in the programming of activities related to eu development assistance , in line with the areas of cooperation for geographic and thematic programmes of ndici-global europe; in this regard , calls on the commission to support civil society organizations and social campaigns and programmes that promote understanding and awareness of non-majority religion and belief groups , especially humanists and atheists in countries where they face particularly serious forms of discrimination;


### 6. calls on the eu to develop the necessary reaction and sanction mechanisms to combat effectively violations of freedom of religion or belief , including discrimination or legal restrictions based on religion or belief in its partner countries , as well as any kind of impediment to freedom of religion or belief , freedom of association and freedom of expression. ### 6. calls on the eu to develop the necessary reaction and sanction mechanisms as provided for by the eu global human rights sanctions regime to combat effectively serious violations of freedom of religion or belief , including discrimination or legal restrictions based on religion or belief in its partner countries , as well as any kind of impediment to freedom of religion or belief , freedom of association and freedom of expression;


### b. whereas the transition to a climate-neutral economy requires an energy transition away from fossil fuels towards a renewable-based system; ### b. whereas the transition to a climate-neutral economy requires a rapid energy transition away from fossil fuels towards a highly energy efficient and fully renewable-based system; whereas for this transition to be speedy , inclusive and just , it requires wide active participation of citizens in the energy system , as active customers , citizens energy communities , renewable self-consumers and renewable energy communities;


### b. whereas the transition to a climate-neutral economy requires an energy transition away from fossil fuels towards a renewable-based system; ### b. whereas the transition to a net-zero greenhouse gas economy requires an urgent energy transition away from fossil fuels towards a highly energy efficient fully renewable-based system;


### c. whereas most renewable electricity sources , such as wind and solar , are intermittent and variable; whereas the integration of variable renewable energy sources into the electricity system requires increased flexibility regarding supply and demand; ### c. whereas renewable electricity sources such as geothermal energy , hydro and biomass can deliver baseload capacity and others such as wind and solar are intermittent and variable; whereas the integration of variable renewable energy sources into the electricity system requires increased flexibility regarding supply and demand;


### c. whereas most renewable electricity sources , such as wind and solar , are intermittent and variable; whereas the integration of variable renewable energy sources into the electricity system requires increased flexibility regarding supply and demand; ### c. whereas some renewable electricity sources , such as wind and solar pv , are intermittent and variable and their integration into the electricity system requires increased flexibility regarding supply and demand and a forward looking energy sector integration strategy;


### 1. calls on the member states to fully explore their energy storage potential; ### 1. calls on the member states to fully apply the energy efficiency first principle , promote sector integration and interconnector use and explore the necessary system flexibility , including their energy storage potential;


### 1. calls on the member states to fully explore their energy storage potential; ### 1. calls on the member states to fully explore their energy storage potential , especially in relation to its contribution to climate neutrality , and to develop accordingly a storage strategy in line with eu’s policies and guidelines;


### 2. calls on the commission to develop a comprehensive strategy on energy storage; ### 2. calls on the commission to develop a comprehensive strategy on energy storage to enable the transformation to a highly energy efficient and fully renewables based economy , notably including small-scale storage and flexibility potential at district level , as well as cross-border connections and sector integration;


### 2. calls on the commission to develop a comprehensive strategy on energy storage; ### 2. calls on the commission to develop a comprehensive strategy on energy storage which should be based on the energy efficiency first principle and serve the just transition towards the eu’s climate neutrality objective;


### 3. calls on the commission to establish a task force involving all relevant directorates-general to develop this strategy , including a comprehensive analysis of the carbon footprint and life cycle of storage technologies , taking into account at least the extraction and/or production of raw materials , the manufacturing process , transport and the recycling process , where applicable; ### 3. calls on the commission to develop this strategy including at least: a mapping of existing and upcoming storage technologies and a comprehensive analysis of their relative contribution to a highly energy efficient and fully renewable based system , also under a sector integration approach; a comprehensive analysis of the carbon footprint and life cycle of the different storage solutions , taking into account at least the extraction and/or production of raw materials , the manufacturing , transport and the recycling process;


### 3. calls on the commission to establish a task force involving all relevant directorates-general to develop this strategy , including a comprehensive analysis of the carbon footprint and life cycle of storage technologies , taking into account at least the extraction and/or production of raw materials , the manufacturing process , transport and the recycling process , where applicable; ### 3. calls on the commission to develop this strategy , including a comprehensive analysis of the actual need , the carbon footprint and life cycle of storage technologies , taking into account at least the extraction and/or production of raw materials , the manufacturing process , transport and the recycling process , and energy losses of different storage options , as well as natural geographic limitations;


### 4. notes that the energy transition towards a renewable-based system requires a well-developed electricity grid and advanced storage technologies , backup generation and demand management in order to secure a constant power supply; ### 4. notes that the energy transition towards a highly energy efficient , fully renewable-based system requires the application of the energy efficiency first principle , massive renewables expansion , consumer empowerment , undistorted price signals , a smart energy grid and advanced storage and flexibility technologies including demand management in order to secure cost efficiency , participation and grid security;


### 4. notes that the energy transition towards a renewable-based system requires a well-developed electricity grid and advanced storage technologies , backup generation and demand management in order to secure a constant power supply; ### 4. notes that the energy transition towards a highly energy efficient and fully renewable-based system requires a well-developed , optimized and smart electricity grid , a smart mix of renewable and flexibility sources , such as advanced storage technologies , backup generation and demand-side management resources in order to secure a constant power supply and reduce the need of fossil back-up generation;


### 5. underlines that the transition to a climate-neutral economy must not endanger security of supply; stresses that reliable power supply and the energy transition must go hand in hand; ### deleted


### 5. underlines that the transition to a climate-neutral economy must not endanger security of supply; stresses that reliable power supply and the energy transition must go hand in hand; ### 5. underlines that high shares of renewable energy in regional and national energy mixes such as portugal and austria have not led to any black outs or supply interruptions in the past; notes that a large number of member states including germany , spain or portugal have already operated for numerous consecutive days fully on renewable energy; therefore , rejects the idea that the transition to a climate-neutral economy might endanger security of supply; stresses that energy efficiency , smart grids , participation and distributed flexibility options including storage , strengthen energy security;


### 6. deeply regrets that infrastructure projects which are crucial to the energy transition often face strong resistance at local level; encourages the member states to actively encourage public support at the local level , for instance through early public participation; ### 6. calls on member states to actively and innovatively pursue public participation at local level during the different stages of the storage infrastructure development (from planning to realisation) in order to fill the information asymmetry with the public and help deliver better projects serving the eu’s climate and energy policies;


### 6. deeply regrets that infrastructure projects which are crucial to the energy transition often face strong resistance at local level; encourages the member states to actively encourage public support at the local level , for instance through early public participation; ### 6. highlights the role of energy democracy , inclusive participation , information and consultation , transparency and level-playing field for a successful energy transition; notes that infrastructure projects crucial to the energy transition often face strong resistance at local level; encourages the member states to actively encourage public support at the local level , through early public consultation presenting real opportunities to discuss alternatives , participation in projects and by requiring a share of projects being directly operated by citizens , that must in turn reap the full benefits;


### 7. points out that most member states require operators of storage facilities to pay network charges or energy taxes twice; is convinced that the abolishment of this burden would lead to more energy storage projects being deployed; calls on the commission to prohibit the double taxation related to energy storage projects in its upcoming proposal for a revised energy taxation directive; calls on the member states to abolish any kind of double taxation or charges related to energy storage projects; ### 7. points out that most member states require operators of storage facilities to pay network charges or energy taxes twice and considers that this may limit more energy storage projects being deployed; calls on the commission to prohibit the double taxation related to energy storage projects in its upcoming proposal for a revised energy taxation directive; calls on the member states to implement cost-reflective network charges related to energy storage projects according to the provisions of the regulation on the internal market for electricity (eu) 2019/943 ;


### 7. points out that most member states require operators of storage facilities to pay network charges or energy taxes twice; is convinced that the abolishment of this burden would lead to more energy storage projects being deployed; calls on the commission to prohibit the double taxation related to energy storage projects in its upcoming proposal for a revised energy taxation directive; calls on the member states to abolish any kind of double taxation or charges related to energy storage projects; ### 7. points out that most member states require operators of storage facilities to pay energy taxes twice; is convinced that the abolishment of this burden would lead to more energy storage projects being deployed; calls on the commission to prohibit the double taxation related to energy storage projects in its upcoming proposal for a revised energy taxation directive; calls on the member states to abolish any kind of double taxation related to energy storage projects , while acknowledging that a level playing field needs to be established among all market participants , including on the requirement to pay cost-reflective network charges;


### 8. urgently calls for a revision of the ten-e regulation17 before the adoption of the next list of projects of common interest (pci); calls for the criteria for granting pci status to be aligned with the eu’s climate and sustainability goals; ### 8. urgently calls for a revision of the ten-e regulation17 before the adoption of the next list of projects of common interest (pci); calls for the criteria for granting pci status to be at the service of the eu’s climate , sustainability and energy goals; in this regards calls for the new guidelines to take into account the role of storage and to support the development of local decentralised projects and their aggregation , by doing so reducing the need for network expansion and making a more efficient use of funding;


### 8. urgently calls for a revision of the ten-e regulation17 before the adoption of the next list of projects of common interest (pci); calls for the criteria for granting pci status to be aligned with the eu’s climate and sustainability goals; ### 8. urgently calls for a revision of the ten-e regulation17 before the adoption of the next list of projects of common interest (pci); calls for a thorough reform of the process to draw up the ten year network development plan (tyndp) to integrate the energy efficiency first principle into infrastructure planning , as well as flexibility , sector integration and cross border connections; demands for the criteria for granting pci status to be aligned with the eu’s climate and sustainability goals;


### 9. notes with concern that approval procedures at national level take considerably longer than the maximum periods for pci projects provided for by the ten-e regulation; calls on the commission to address this issue in its upcoming review through an effective enforcement mechanism; ### 9. notes with concern that approval procedures at national level take considerably longer than the maximum periods for pci projects provided for by the ten-e regulation; calls on the commission to address this issue in its upcoming review;


### 10. regrets the lack of market deployment of research projects under horizon 2020 , and welcomes the planned greater focus on close-to-market activities under horizon europe , in particular through the creation of the european innovation council; calls for greater use of pre-commercial procurement; ### 10. regrets the lack of market deployment of research projects under horizon 2020 , and welcomes the planned greater focus on close-to-market activities while keeping fundamental research ambitions to create a pipeline of close-to market technologies and projects in the future under horizon europe , in particular through the creation of the european innovation council; calls for greater use of pre-commercial procurement;


### 11. notes that that there is only an indirect reference to energy storage projects in the guidelines on state aid for environmental protection and energy 2014-2020; notes , furthermore , that astonishingly few state aid measures for storage projects have been notified in the past; ### 11. notes that that energy storage projects are already indirectly covered in the guidelines on state aid for environmental protection and energy 2014-2020 as storage contributes to secure a constant energy supply complementary to other technologies;


### 12. calls on the commission to take into account the important role of storage in the energy transition when reviewing the state aid guidelines; calls on the commission to make sure that the new guidelines take into account the efficiency and the contribution to grid stability of different storage technologies , so that inefficient funding is avoided; ### 12. calls on the commission to keep considering the role of storage in contributing to eu climate neutrality and climate adaptation when reviewing the state aid guidelines and to allow the support for those storage solutions which are first commercial projects or based on renewable energy sources; moreover , calls on the commission to make sure that the new guidelines take into account the environmental , economic and social impacts , the impact on climate change resilience , the efficiency and the contribution to grid stability of different storage solutions , so that inefficient and harmful funding is avoided;


### 12. calls on the commission to take into account the important role of storage in the energy transition when reviewing the state aid guidelines; calls on the commission to make sure that the new guidelines take into account the efficiency and the contribution to grid stability of different storage technologies , so that inefficient funding is avoided; ### 12. calls on the commission to take into account the role of storage in the energy transition when reviewing the state aid guidelines; calls on the commission to make sure that the new guidelines take into account the sustainability and efficiency of different storage projects and allow only first commercial applications to be exempted from state aid rules so that inefficient funding is avoided; underlines that operation of storage assets by non-market players is limited to the cases where there is no market interest and the national regulatory authority has granted an exemption;


### 13. acknowledges the high potential of green hydrogen for energy storage and as feedstock for energy-intensive industries; ### 13. acknowledges the potential of sustainable renewable hydrogen for energy storage , as feedstock for energy-intensive industries and specific industrial and long haul transport applications that have reached their full energy efficiency potential and cannot be electrified;


### 13. acknowledges the high potential of green hydrogen for energy storage and as feedstock for energy-intensive industries; ### 13. acknowledges the potential of green hydrogen for energy storage and as feedstock for "hard-to-abate" heavy transports and energy-intensive industries , also in combination with other compatible storage technologies , such as thermal energy storage;


### 14. notes that there are varying standards in the member states as regards the blending of hydrogen with natural gas; calls , therefore , on the commission to develop minimum blending standards for hydrogen both for the gas grid and end uses; ### 14. notes that there are no harmonised standards in the eu and its member states for the certification of different forms and provenances of hydrogen; calls , therefore , on the commission to develop a clear taxonomy and certification standards; underlines that hard to decarbonise energy intensive industrial processes , those who rely on hydrogen as feedstock and dedicated transport applications , require pure hydrogen;


### 14. notes that there are varying standards in the member states as regards the blending of hydrogen with natural gas; calls , therefore , on the commission to develop minimum blending standards for hydrogen both for the gas grid and end uses; ### 14. notes the lack of harmonised standards in the eu and in the member states for the categorisation and the certification of different types of hydrogen; calls , therefore , on the commission to develop , throughout a open and transparent process , a taxonomy of hydrogen with the ultimate aim to differentiate , certify and promote green hydrogen produced through electrolysis from renewable electricity;


### 15. calls on the commission to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the cost of retrofitting gas infrastructure for the use of green hydrogen; ### deleted


### 15. calls on the commission to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the cost of retrofitting gas infrastructure for the use of green hydrogen; ### 15. calls on the commission to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the infrastructure needs for the production , distribution and use of hydrogen produced from renewable energy sources;


### 16. is convinced that batteries will play a crucial role in ensuring a stable electricity supply; ### 16. is convinced that batteries will play an important role in ensuring a stable electricity supply , and to do so their access to electricity and flexibility markets will be key; in this regard , calls on member states to correctly and effectively transpose the directive on common rules for the internal market for electricity (eu) 2019/944 and implement the regulation on the internal market for electricity (eu) 2019/943 in order to provide the coherent market signals for the development of energy storage projects; calls on the commission to guide and monitor member states in this endeavour;


### 17. is concerned that the eu has a very low battery manufacturing capacity; welcomes , therefore , the european battery alliance and the strategic action plan on batteries; calls for continuous support for them and for the implementation of the strategic action plan on batteries to be strengthened; welcomes , in this respect , the commission’s announcement that it will propose legislation on batteries in support of the strategic action plan and the circular economy; calls , in this regard , for life cycle analysis of batteries; ### 17. is concerned that the eu has a very low battery manufacturing capacity; welcomes , therefore , the european battery alliance and the strategic action plan on batteries; calls for continuous support for them and for the implementation of the strategic action plan on batteries to be strengthened; welcomes , in this respect , the commission’s announcement that it will propose legislation on batteries in support of the strategic action plan and the circular economy; calls , in this regard , for a carbon footprint reporting on the life cycle of batteries over the value chain , a phase-out of hazardous materials in cell manufacturing and the introduction of circular design;


### 18. is concerned about the eu’s heavy dependence on imports of raw materials for battery production; is convinced that enhanced recycling schemes for batteries could deliver a significant share of the raw materials required for battery production within the eu; ### 18. is concerned about the eu’s heavy dependence on imports of raw materials for battery production; is convinced that enhanced reuse and recycling schemes for batteries could deliver a significant share of the raw materials required for battery production within the eu;


### 19. acknowledges the potential for used electric vehicle batteries to be reused for energy storage in private homes or in larger battery units; is concerned that the classification of used batteries as waste in the batteries directive , independent of reuse , can act as a barrier to such reuse; ### 19. acknowledges the potential of electric vehicles , and their batteries , to provide grid services as well as the potential for electric vehicle batteries to be reused for energy storage in private homes or in larger battery units;


### 20. calls on the commission to consider a recycling target for lithium-ion batteries when revising the batteries directive; ### 20. believes that each of the key battery materials such as lithium , as well as nickel , cobalt and manganese , can reach recycling rates between up to 80% and at least 90% 1c; underlines the need to further promote research and innovation for recycling processes and technologies under horizon europe not at least against the background of necessary societal resilience; calls on the commission to introduce specific and ambitious recycling targets for all key materials in lithium-ion batteries in a new batteries regulation;


### 20. calls on the commission to consider a recycling target for lithium-ion batteries when revising the batteries directive; ### 20. calls on the commission to introduce preparation for re-use and recycling targets for lithium-ion batteries when revising the batteries directive;


### 21. notes that pumped storage plays a crucial role in energy storage; is concerned that the eu is not exploiting the full potential of this carbon-neutral and highly efficient way of storing energy; ### 21. notes that pumped storage currently plays a crucial role in energy storage;


### 21. notes that pumped storage plays a crucial role in energy storage; is concerned that the eu is not exploiting the full potential of this carbon-neutral and highly efficient way of storing energy; ### 21. notes that existing pumped storage plays an important role in energy storage and the optimisation of its use , in compliance with the environmental legislation , should be assessed by member states;


### 22. considers that the member states should seek further ways to enhance pumped storage capacity; calls on the member states to remove any administrative obstacles that are delaying these projects and to provide regulatory support for innovative approaches in this field; calls on the commission to prioritise the necessary energy transition , to conduct a comprehensive review of the relevant legislation and to propose changes where necessary; ### 22. highlights that pumped storage on freshwater has severe impacts on ecosystems and contradicts the objectives of the water framework directive (2000/60/ec) by modifying river hydromorphology , destroying habitats and putting at risk the species that depend on them for their habitat and survival , reducing the natural adaptation potential of freshwater ecosystems to climate change and ultimately bearing negative consequences for local communities;


### 22. considers that the member states should seek further ways to enhance pumped storage capacity; calls on the member states to remove any administrative obstacles that are delaying these projects and to provide regulatory support for innovative approaches in this field; calls on the commission to prioritise the necessary energy transition , to conduct a comprehensive review of the relevant legislation and to propose changes where necessary; ### 22. considers that the member states should seek further ways to enhance pumped storage capacity where ecologically responsible; calls on the commission to carry out a comprehensive review of the relevant legislation and to propose changes where necessary , while not weakening existing environmental legislation , notably the water framework directive 1a;


### 23. points out that in order to strengthen environmental protection , updates of existing facilities and higher capacity projects should be prioritised; ### 23. points out that in order to minimise the environmental and social impacts , updates of existing facilities should be prioritised over the installation of new capacity (for instance conventional hydropower dams can be retrofitted to allow them to function as pumped storage project); new and high capacity pumped storage projects should be subject to strict environmental impact assessment vis-à-vis other technologies;


### 23. points out that in order to strengthen environmental protection , updates of existing facilities and higher capacity projects should be prioritised; ### 23. points out that in the interest of environmental protection , upgrades of existing facilities and higher capacity projects might be better than new projects;


### 24. considers district heating to be a very efficient tool for energy storage and residential heating in densely populated areas; calls on the commission and the member states to support and develop district heating networks; ### 24. considers that well designed and highly energy-efficient district heating is another promising use of thermal energy storage and particularly relevant for energy storage and residential heating in densely populated areas; calls on the commission and the member states to support and develop highly energy -fficient and renewable based district heating networks;


### 24. considers district heating to be a very efficient tool for energy storage and residential heating in densely populated areas; calls on the commission and the member states to support and develop district heating networks; ### 24. considers renewable district heating and innovative large scale boilers to be a very efficient tool for energy storage and residential heating in densely populated areas; calls on the commission and the member states to support and develop highly energy efficient and renewable energy based district heating networks;


### the role of consumers ### citizens energy and decentralised storage


### the role of consumers ### the active role of citizens


### 26. believes that home batteries , domestic heat storage , vehicle-to-grid technology and demand response help to cut consumption peaks , provide flexibility and are playing an increasingly important role in ensuring that the energy grid is efficient and integrated; ### 26. believes that home batteries , domestic heat storage , vehicle-to-grid technology , demand response , smart meters and smart grid as an enabler technology , are key to reduce consumption peaks , provide system flexibility and are playing an increasingly important role in ensuring that the energy grid is efficient , renewable and integrated; notes however that power storage facilities uses may compete with demand-side response and the need of the former may be severely reduced by the development of the latter by 20304a; calls therefore on the commission and the member states to give priority to those solutions which are more resource- and energy-efficient , ultimately serving better the climate neutrality objective of the union;


### (7) the activities funded by the chips joint undertaking should be covered in one single work programme , which should be adopted by the governing board. before each work programme is prepared , the public authorities board , taking into account the advice of the european semiconductor board and input from other relevant stakeholders , including as appropriate , roadmaps produced by the alliance on processors and semiconductor technologies26 , should define the part of the work programme related to capacity building activities and research and innovation activities , including their corresponding expenditure estimates. for this purpose , the public authorities board should include only the commission and public authorities from member states. subsequently , on the basis of this definition , the executive director should prepare the work programme including capacity building and research and innovation activities and their corresponding expenditure estimates. ### (7) the activities funded by the chips joint undertaking should be covered in a work programme , which should be adopted by the governing board. before each work programme is prepared , the public authorities board , taking into account the advice of the european semiconductor board and input from other relevant stakeholders , including as appropriate , roadmaps produced by the alliance on processors and semiconductor technologies26 , should define the part of the work programme related to capacity building activities and research and innovation activities , including their corresponding expenditure estimates. for this purpose , the public authorities board should include only the commission and public authorities from member states. subsequently , on the basis of this definition , the executive director should prepare the work programme including capacity building and research and innovation activities and their corresponding expenditure estimates.


### (9) the public authorities board should be responsible for the selection of the projects related to capacity building activities. for this purpose , the public authorities board should include only the commission and public authorities from member states. ### (9) the public authorities board should be responsible for the selection of the projects related to capacity building activities. for this purpose , the public authorities board should include only the commission and public authorities from member states. there should be a balanced representation of experts among the members of the public authorities board , within the scope of the activities of the joint undertaking , including with respect to gender and geographical balance. collectively , the members of the public authorities board should have the necessary competences and expertise in order to make science-based recommendations to the joint undertaking , taking into account the climate , environmental and socioeconomic impact of such recommendations and the objectives of the joint undertaking.


### the chips joint undertaking shall also contribute to the objectives of the chips for europe initiative and the digital europe programme. ### the chips joint undertaking shall also contribute to the implementation of the objectives of the chips for europe initiative and the digital europe programme.


### 1. in addition to criteria set out in article 22 of the horizon europe regulation or , in the case of the chips joint undertaking , in article 18 of the digital europe programme , the work programme may include , as an annex , eligibility criteria regarding national legal entities. ### 1. in addition to criteria set out in article 22 of the horizon europe regulation or , in the case of the chips joint undertaking , in article 18 of the digital europe programme , the work programme shall include , as an annex , eligibility criteria regarding national legal entities and the evaluation criteria , including the contribution to achieving the twin digital and green transition. the work programme shall include an assessment of the environmental impact of the actions funded to prevent any damage to the environment and biodiversity , as well as an assessment of social impact , including in terms of employment and training.


### establish union scientific excellence and innovation leadership in emerging components and systems technologies , including in activities related to lower trls; and promote the active involvement of smes , which shall represent at least one third of the total number of participants in indirect actions and at least 20 % of public funding dedicated to research and innovation actions should go to them. ### establish union scientific excellence and innovation leadership in emerging components and systems technologies , including in activities related to lower trls; and promote the active involvement of smes , which shall represent at least one third of the total number of participants in indirect actions and at least 30 % of public funding dedicated to research and innovation actions should go to them.


### increase large-scale capacity throughout the union in cutting-edge and next-generation semiconductor technologies to reinforce the union’s advanced design , systems integration and semiconductor production capabilities and limit where possible the environmental footprint. ### increase specialised capacity throughout the union in cutting-edge and next-generation semiconductor technologies to reinforce the union’s advanced design , systems integration and semiconductor production capabilities and prevent the negative environmental impact of the semiconductor industry with a credible strategy and commitment to prevent any damages to the environment and biodiversity , including sufficient measures to ensure that any negative consequences will be treated according to the polluter pays principle.


### establish coherence between the strategic research and innovation agenda of the chips joint undertaking inputs from other relevant stakeholders , including as appropriate , roadmaps produced by the alliance on processors and semiconductor technologies and union policies so that electronics components and systems technologies contribute efficiently. ### establish coherence between the strategic research and innovation agenda of the chips joint undertaking and union policies so that the objectives of the chips act in particular are implemented.


### in paragraph 2 the following points (g) , (h) , (i) and (j) are added: ### in paragraph 2 the following points (-a) (g) , (h) , (i) , (j) (k) (l) (m) and (n) are added:


### 3. by way of derogation from article 28(4) , the private members shall make or arrange for their constituent and affiliated entities to make a financial contribution of at least eur 26 331 000 for administrative costs of the chips joint undertaking. the share of the total contribution on an annual basis for administrative costs of the chips joint undertaking by the private members shall be 35%. ### 3. by way of derogation from article 28(4) , the private members shall make or arrange for their constituent and affiliated entities to make a financial contribution of at least eur 26 331 000 for administrative costs of the chips joint undertaking. the share of the total contribution on an annual basis for administrative costs of the chips joint undertaking by the private members shall be at least 35%.


### (3) the european green deal and the climate law set the target for the eu to become climate neutral by 2050 in a manner that contributes to european competitiveness , growth and jobs. for a decarbonised gas markets to be set up and contribute to the energy transition , significantly higher shares of renewable energy sources in an integrated energy system with an active participation of consumers in competitive markets are needed. ### (3) the european green deal and the climate law set the target for the eu to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% compared to 1990 levels by 2030 and become a net zero emissions economy at the latest by 2050. this regulation should contribute to achieving these targets. for a renewable gas markets to be set up and contribute to the energy transition , significantly higher shares of renewable energy sources in an integrated energy system with an active participation of consumers in competitive markets are needed.