### this directive is aimed at harmonising the rules of member states applicable to third-party litigation funders (‘litigation funders’) and their authorised activities , and also at protecting funded claimants and intended beneficiaries , including where relevant those whose interests are represented by qualified entities , in proceedings financed wholly or in part by third-party litigation funding. it lays down safeguards to prevent conflicts of interest , abusive litigation as well as the disproportionate allocation of monetary awards to litigation funders. ### this directive is aimed at harmonising the rules of member states applicable to commercial third-party litigation funders(‘litigation funders’) and their authorised activities , in order to provide a supportive framework , similar to the ones in place for such a financial services , that also protects funded claimants and intended beneficiaries , including where relevant those whose interests are represented by qualified entities , in proceedings financed wholly or in part by third-party litigation funding. it lays down safeguards to prevent conflicts of interest , abusive litigation as well as the disproportionate allocation of monetary awards to litigation funders.


### this directive is aimed at harmonising the rules of member states applicable to third-party litigation funders (‘litigation funders’) and their authorised activities , and also at protecting funded claimants and intended beneficiaries , including where relevant those whose interests are represented by qualified entities , in proceedings financed wholly or in part by third-party litigation funding. it lays down safeguards to prevent conflicts of interest , abusive litigation as well as the disproportionate allocation of monetary awards to litigation funders. ### this directive is aimed at harmonising the rules of member states applicable to third-party litigation funders (‘litigation funders’) and their authorised activities , and also at protecting funded claimants and intended beneficiaries , including where relevant those whose interests are represented by qualified entities , in proceedings financed wholly or in part by third-party litigation funding. it prohibits third-party funding of investment arbitration proceedings. it lays down safeguards to prevent conflicts of interest , abusive litigation as well as the disproportionate allocation of monetary awards to litigation funders.


### this directive applies to third party litigation funders and to the third-party funding agreements that they are entitled to offer to claimants in the union. ### this directive applies to commercial third party litigation funders and to the third-party funding agreements that they are entitled to offer to claimants in the union.


### ‘litigation funder’ means any undertaking that enters into a third-party funding agreement in relation to proceedings , even though it is neither a party to those proceedings , a lawyer representing a party to such proceedings , or a provider of regulated insurance services to a party in such proceedings; ### ‘litigation funder’ means any commercial undertaking that enters into a commercial third-party funding agreement in relation to proceedings , even though it is neither a party to those proceedings , a legal representative to a party to such proceedings , or a provider of regulated insurance services to a party in such proceedings , and which has the primary aim of receiving a return on investment from providing funding or to obtain a competitive advantage in a specific market;


### ‘claimant’ means any natural or legal person who brings or intends to bring proceedings against another party before a court or administrative authority; ### ‘claimant’ means any natural or legal person who brings or intends to bring proceedings against another party before a court or administrative authority in order to obtain compensation or damages in the form of a monetary award;


### ‘proceedings’ means any domestic or cross border civil or commercial litigation , or any voluntary arbitration procedure or alternative dispute resolution mechanism , through which redress before a court or administrative authority in the union is sought concerning a dispute; ### ‘‘proceedings’ means any domestic or cross border civil or commercial litigation , or any voluntary arbitration procedure or alternative dispute resolution mechanism , through which compensation or damages in the form of a monetary award before a court or administrative authority in the union is sought concerning a dispute;


### ‘third-party funding agreement’ means an agreement in which a litigation funder agrees to fund of all or part of the costs of proceedings in exchange for receiving a share of the monetary amount awarded to the claimant or a success fee , so as to cover the reimbursement of its funding and , where applicable , remuneration for the service provided , based wholly or partially on the outcome of proceedings. this definition includes all agreements in which such a reward is agreed , whether offered as an ‘arm’s length’ service , or achieved through a purchase or assignment of the claim. ### ‘third-party funding agreement’ means a commercial agreement in which a litigation funder has the primary aim on receiving a return on investment and therefore agrees to fund all or part of the costs of proceedings in exchange for receiving a share of the monetary amount awarded to the claimant as part of the compensation or damages granted. this definition includes all agreements in which such a reward is agreed , whether offered as an ‘arm’s length’ service , or achieved through a purchase or assignment of the claim.


### 1. member states shall ensure that supervisory authorities only grant or maintain authorisations , whether for domestic or cross-border litigation or other proceedings , to litigation funders who comply with the provisions of this directive , and who meet , in addition to any suitability or other criteria as may be set out in national law , at least the following criteria: ### 1. member states shall ensure that supervisory authorities only grant or maintain authorisations , whether for domestic or cross-border litigation or other proceedings , to litigation funders who either do not obtain more than 10% of the final compensation or damages awarded or which comply with the provisions of this directive , and who meet , in addition to any suitability or other criteria as may be set out in national law , at least the following criteria:


### they conduct their business through a registered office in a member state , and apply for and maintain an authorisation in that same member state; ### they apply for and maintain an authorisation in a member state;


### they demonstrate to the satisfaction of the supervisory authority that they have procedures and governance structures in place to ensure their ongoing compliance with this directive , with the transparency requirements and fiduciary relationships this directive provides for , and with any additional national requirements relating to the conclusion of third-party funding agreements; ### they demonstrate to the satisfaction of the supervisory authority that they have procedures and governance structures in place to ensure their ongoing compliance with this directive , with the transparency requirements and fiduciary relationships this directive provides for;


### 2. member states shall ensure that supervisory authorities are empowered to verify whether litigation funders would be able to maintain access at all times to the minimum liquidity required to pay in full all foreseeable adverse costs in all proceedings they have funded. members states shall ensure that their courts or administrative authorities can request litigation funders to provide security for costs in the forms admitted by national law , should a defendant so request based on reasoned specific concerns. ### 2. member states shall ensure that supervisory authorities are empowered to verify whether litigation funders would be able to maintain access at all times to the minimum liquidity required to pay in full all foreseeable adverse costs in all proceedings they have funded. members states shall ensure that their courts or administrative authorities can request litigation funders to provide security for costs in the forms admitted by national law , if the supervisory authority considers this appropriate.


### 2. where a claimant intends to take a claim on behalf of others in proceedings , such as where the claimant is a qualified entity representing consumers , the litigation funder shall also be required to owe a fiduciary duty to such intended beneficiaries. litigation funders shall be obliged to acting in a manner that is consistent with their fiduciary duty throughout the course of proceedings. in the event of a conflict between the interests of the litigation funder and those of claimants or intended beneficiaries , the litigation funder shall commit to placing the interests of the claimants or intended beneficiaries above its own interests. ### 2. where a claimant intends to take a claim on behalf of others in proceedings , such as where the claimant is a qualified entity representing consumers , the litigation funder shall also be required to owe a fiduciary duty to such intended beneficiaries. litigation funders shall be obliged to acting in a manner that is consistent with their fiduciary duty throughout the course of proceedings. in the event of a conflict between the interests of the litigation funder and those of claimants or intended beneficiaries , the litigation funder shall commit to placing the interests of the claimants or intended beneficiaries above its own interests. during a litigation procedure , the defendant cannot submit a complaint against a litigation funder who is funding the ongoing case against them.


### take any decisions necessary to grant or deny authorisation to any applicant litigation funder , to withdraw any authorisation , or to impose any condition , restriction or penalty upon any authorised litigation funder; ### take any decisions necessary to grant or deny authorisation to any applicant litigation funder , to withdraw any authorisation , or to impose any conditions , restrictions or penalties upon any authorised litigation funder;


### assess at least every year whether an authorised litigation funder continues to comply with the criteria for authorisation referred to in article 5(1) and ensure that such authorisation is withdrawn if it no longer complies with one or more of those criteria. ### assess whether an authorised litigation funder continues to comply with the criteria for authorisation referred to in article 5(1) and ensure that such authorisation is withdrawn if it no longer complies with one or more of those criteria.


### 4. member states shall ensure that litigation funders are required to notify a supervisory authority without delay of any changes affecting compliance by a litigation funder with the capital adequacy requirements laid down in article 6 paragraphs 1 and 2. in addition , member states shall ensure that litigation funders certify , at regular intervals and at least once annually , that they remain in compliance with those paragraphs. such a certification shall contain the opinion of a recognised national or international audit firm that the litigation funder is in compliance. ### 4. member states shall ensure that litigation funders are required to notify a supervisory authority of any changes affecting compliance by a litigation funder with the capital adequacy requirements laid down in article 6 paragraphs 1 and 2. in addition , member states shall ensure that litigation funders certify that they remain in compliance with those paragraphs. such a certification shall contain the opinion of a recognised national or international audit firm that the litigation funder is in compliance.


### 2. under the complaints system referred to in paragraph 1 , member states shall ensure that supervisory authorities are empowered to assess whether a litigation funder is in compliance with any obligations or conditions associated with its authorisation , with the provisions of this directive and with any other applicable requirements under national law. ### deleted


### 2. the commission shall oversee and coordinate the activities of the supervisory authorities in performing the functions set out in this directive , and shall convene and chair a network of supervisory authorities. the modalities for cooperation within the network shall be laid down and revised by the commission by means of delegated acts , in close cooperation with the supervisory authorities. ### 2. the commission shall oversee and coordinate the activities of the supervisory authorities in performing the functions set out in this directive , and shall convene and chair a network of supervisory authorities.


### 3. the supervisory authorities may consult the commission on any matter involving the implementation of this directive. the commission may issue guidelines , recommendations , best practice notices and advisory opinions to supervisory authorities on the implementation of this directive , and in relation to any apparent inconsistency in this regard , or in relation to the supervision of any litigation funders. the commission may also set up a centre of competence to provide qualified expertise to court or administrative authorities seeking advice on how to assess litigation funders’ activities within the union. ### 3. the commission may issue guidelines , recommendations , best practice notices and advisory opinions to supervisory authorities on the implementation of this directive , and in relation to any apparent inconsistency in this regard , or in relation to the supervision of any litigation funders. the commission may also set up a centre of competence to provide qualified expertise to court or administrative authorities seeking advice on how to assess litigation funders’ activities within the union.


### 4. each supervisory authority shall communicate every quarter to the commission a list of the litigation funders it has authorised and make that list publicly available. supervisory authorities shall inform the commission each and every time there is a change to that list. ### 4. each supervisory authority shall communicate every year to the commission a list of the commercial litigation funders it has authorised and make that list publicly available.


### 5. each supervisory authority shall communicate every quarter to the commission and other supervisory authorities details of all decisions taken with regard to the supervision of litigation funders , including details of all decisions taken pursuant to article 8(2)(b). ### 5. each member state shall communicate every three years to the commission all decisions taken with regard to the supervision of litigation funders. upon request from the commission , member states shall provide further details on particular cases.


### 7. where a litigation funder is authorised by a supervisory authority in a member state , but wishes to offer a third party funding agreement for the benefit of a claimant or other intended beneficiary in another member state , or for proceedings in another member state it shall notify the supervisory authority of the host member state , and present proof of authorisation from its home member state supervisory authority. ### 7. where a litigation funder is authorised by a supervisory authority in a member state , but wishes to offer a third party funding agreement for the benefit of a claimant or other intended beneficiary in another member state , or for proceedings in another member state it shall present proof of authorisation from its home member state supervisory authority upon request from the other member state. in case a supervisory authority in that other member state is aware of irregularities in the conduct of the litigation funder , it shall directly inform the responsible supervisory authority.


### member states shall ensure that third party funding agreements are required to be written in one or more of the official languages of the member state in which the claimant(s) and intended beneficiaries are resident , and presented in clear and easily understood terms , in particular with regard to the following elements: ### third party funding agreements shall be written in one or more of the official languages of the member state in which the claimant(s) and intended beneficiaries are resident , and presented in clear and easily understood terms and include as a minimum:


### a. the share of any award or fees that will be paid to the litigation funder or any other third party , or any other financial costs borne by the claimants and /or intended beneficiaries directly or indirectly both in absolute terms , and also modelled on a range of realistic outcomes given the facts then known about the claim; ### a. the share of any award or fees that will be paid to the litigation funder or any other third party , or any other financial costs borne by the claimants and /or intended beneficiaries directly or indirectly;


### b. the risks that the claimants and/or intended beneficiaries are assuming , including: ### b. the circumstances in which the third-party funding agreement can be terminated.


### i. any restrictions on the claimants’ autonomy in issuing instructions to the claimant law firm or otherwise controlling the conduct of the litigation; ### deleted


### ii. the scope for escalating costs in the litigation , and how that impacts the financial interests of the claimants and/or beneficiaries; ### deleted


### iv. any potential risk of having to pay adverse costs , including circumstances in which adverse costs insurance or indemnities may not cover such exposure. ### deleted


### 1. member states shall require litigation funders to establish a policy and to implement internal processes for the avoidance and resolution of conflicts of interest. that policy and those internal processes shall be appropriate to the nature , scale and complexity of the litigation funder’s business , and shall be set out in writing and made publicly available on the litigation funder’s website. they shall also be clearly stated in an annex to any third-party funding agreement. ### 1. member states shall require litigation funders to establish a policy and to implement internal processes for the avoidance and resolution of conflicts of interest. this information shall also be included in an annex to any third-party funding agreement.


### 2. member states shall require litigation funders to disclose to a claimant and intended beneficiaries in the third-party funding agreement all information that may reasonably be perceived as having the potential to give rise to a conflict of interest. required disclosures shall include at least the following: ### 2. member states shall require litigation funders to disclose to a claimant and intended beneficiaries in the third-party funding agreement and the supervisory authority all information that may reasonably be perceived as having the potential to give rise to a conflict of interest. required disclosures shall include at least the following:


### details of any arrangements that exist , financial or otherwise , between the litigation funder and any other undertaking that relates to the proceedings , including any arrangements with any relevant qualified entity , claims aggregator , lawyers , or other interested party; ### details of any arrangements that exist , financial or otherwise , between the litigation funder and any other undertaking that relates to the proceedings , including any arrangements with claims aggregator , lawyers , or other interested party;


### details of any other third-party funding agreements that the litigation funder has entered into which are related , relevant or similar to the claimant’s case , and ### deleted


### details of any relevant connection between the litigation funder and a defendant in the proceedings. ### details of any relevant connection between the litigation funder and a defendant in the proceedings , in particular related to any competitive situations.


### 2. member states shall ensure that third-party funders are not permitted to influence the decisions of a claimant in the course of proceedings. to this end , any clause in third-party funding agreements granting a litigation funder the power to take or influence decisions in relation to proceedings shall have no legal effect. any such clause or arrangement consisting of , inter alia , the following shall have no legal effect: ### 2. member states shall ensure that third-party funders are not permitted to unduly influence , control or overrule the decisions of a claimant in the course of proceedings. to this end , the following shall have no legal effect:


### the grant of an explicit power to a litigation funder to take or influence decisions in the course of proceedings , such as with respect to specific claims pursued , settlement of the case , or management of expenses associated with the proceedings; ### the grant of an explicit power to a litigation funder to take or control decisions in the course of proceedings against the will or interest of the claimant , such as with respect to specific claims pursued , settlement of the case , or management of expenses associated with the proceedings;


### the provision of capital , or any other resource with a monetary value , for the purposes of proceedings contingent on the approval by third-party funders of its specific use. ### deleted


### 4. absent exceptional circumstances , where a litigation funding agreement would entitle a litigation funder to a share of any award that would dilute the share available to the claimant and the intended beneficiaries to 60% or below of the total award (including all damages amounts , costs , fees and others expenses) , such an agreement shall have no legal effect. ### 4. absent exceptional circumstances , where a litigation funding agreement would entitle a litigation funder to a share of any award that would dilute the share available to the claimant and the intended beneficiaries to 70% or below of the compensation or damages award , such an agreement shall have no legal effect.


### 1. member states shall ensure that claimants or their representatives are required to provide a complete and unredacted copy of any third-party funding agreements relating to the proceedings concerned to the relevant court or administrative authority at the earliest stage of those proceedings. ### 1. member states shall ensure that the relevant court or administrative authority can require claimants or their representatives to provide all parts of third-party funding agreements relating to the proceedings concerned that are necessary to assess the validity of the agreement. the third-party funding agreement shall not be accessible to the defendant.


### 2. member states shall ensure that courts or administrative authorities are empowered , upon request by a party to the proceedings , where that party has justified doubts in respect of the compliance of such third party funding agreement with this directive and any other applicable national law in accordance with article 16. ### deleted


### 3. where paragraph 2 applies , in accordance with national procedural law , subject to the applicable union and national rules on confidentiality , member states shall ensure , if requested by the defendant , that the court or administrative authority is able to require the claimants or their representatives to provide the defendant with a copy of any third-party funding agreement used to support the proceedings. the court or administrative authority may permit certain information , which could confer a tactical advantage to a defendant to be redacted from the third-party funding agreement prior to disclosure to the defendant. ### deleted


### to make orders or give directions that are binding on a litigation funder , such as requiring the litigation funder to provide the funding as agreed in the relevant third-party funding agreement or requiring the litigation funder to make changes in respect of the relevant funding and , if necessary , rejecting the legal standing of the funded claimant , in particular , when the action is brought by a qualified entity , in accordance with article 10 , paragraph 4 , of directive (eu) 2020/1828 of the european parliament and of the council; ### to make orders or give directions that are binding on a litigation funder , such as requiring the litigation funder to provide the funding as agreed in the relevant third-party funding agreement or requiring the litigation funder to make changes in respect of the relevant funding ;


### to evaluate the suitability of each third-party funding agreement with respect to the transparency requirements under article 12 , taking in particular into account the level of clarity and transparency of the third-party funding agreement , and the degree to which any risks and benefits were presented to and knowingly undertaken by claimants or those intended beneficiaries represented by claimants; ### to evaluate the suitability of each third-party funding agreement with respect to the transparency requirements under article 12;


### to assess whether a third-party funding agreement entitles a litigation funder to an unfair , disproportionate or unreasonable share of any award , and to annul or adjust such agreements accordingly. member states shall specify that in making such an assessment , competent courts or administrative authorities may take into consideration the characteristics and circumstances of the intended or ongoing proceedings including , as appropriate: ### to assess whether a third-party funding agreement entitles a litigation funder to an unfair , disproportionate or unreasonable share of any award as described in article 13(4) , and to annul or adjust such agreements accordingly. member states shall specify that in making such an assessment , competent courts or administrative authorities may take into consideration the characteristics and circumstances of the intended or ongoing proceedings including , as appropriate:


### 1. where the claimant party has insufficient resources to meet adverse costs , member states shall ensure that courts or administrative authorities are empowered to make cost orders against litigation funders , whether jointly or severally with claimants , following an unsuccessful outcome in proceedings. in such a case , courts or administrative authorities may require litigation funders to pay any appropriate adverse costs , having regard to: ### 1. member states shall ensure that courts or administrative authorities are empowered to make cost orders against litigation funders , whether jointly or severally with claimants , following an unsuccessful outcome in proceedings. in such a case , courts or administrative authorities may require litigation funders to pay any appropriate adverse costs , having regard to:


### (7) in particular , in order to allow for the development of crypto-assets that would qualify as financial instruments and dlt , while preserving a high level of financial stability , market integrity , transparency and investor protection , it would be beneficial to create a temporary regime for dlt market infrastructures. this temporary legal framework should allow competent authorities to temporarily permit dlt market infrastructures to operate under an alternative set of requirements with regard to access to them compared to those otherwise applicable under the union financial services legislation that could prevent them from developing solutions for the trading and settlement of transactions of crypto-assets that would qualify as financial instruments. this legal framework should be temporary in order to enable the european supervisory authorities (esas) and the national competent authorities to gain experience on the opportunities and specific risks created by crypto-assets traded on those infrastructures. this directive is consequently accompanying regulation [on a pilot regime for market infrastructures based on distributed ledger technology] by supporting this new union regulatory framework on dlt market infrastructures with a targeted exemption from specific provisions of union financial services legislation applying to activities and services in relation to financial instruments as defined in point (15) of article 4(1) of directive 2014/65/eu that would otherwise not offer the full flexibility required when deploying solutions in the trading and post trading stages of transactions involving crypto-assets. ### deleted


### in article 24a(1) of directive 2006/43/ec , point (b) is replaced by the following: ### in article 24a(1) of directive 2006/43/ec , point (b)(a) (new) is introduced with the following wording:


### (4) in article 19 , the following paragraph is added: ### deleted


### 23. calls on the member states to step up their efforts to early identify potential victims , in particular within migration flows and hotspots; calls on the member states to provide adequate resources for specialised facilities for unaccompanied minors and female victims of trafficking; ### 23. calls on the member states to step up their efforts to early identify potential victims , including within migration flows and hotspots; calls on the member states to provide adequate resources for specialised facilities for victims of trafficking including women and unaccompanied minors;


### 24. notes that the migration policies of member states , geared towards fighting irregular migration , can have a ‘chilling effect’ among vulnerable migrants and give perpetrators additional leverage to exploit victims with an irregular status24 ; calls on the member states to decouple migration enforcement actions from law enforcement activities; ### 24. notes that the migration policies of member states , geared towards fighting irregular migration , can have a ‘chilling effect’ among vulnerable migrants and give perpetrators additional leverage to exploit victims with an irregular status24 ; calls on the member states to decouple migration enforcement actions from law enforcement activities; recalls that , in order to prevent thb and people smuggling , it is important to create safe legal migration channels for women and children , such as humanitarian visas; calls upon the commission and the member states to provide safe and legal routes for migration , to ensure the presence of gender trained staff in reception facilities and to provide adequate support and funding to civil society organisations;


### 25. notes that children constitute nearly a quarter of all victims in the eu , with girls (78 %) making up the vast majority of child victims in the eu; points out that nearly 75 % of all child victims in the eu were eu citizens; is particularly concerned about child victims in the eu trafficked for sexual exploitation25 ; ### 25. notes that children constitute nearly a quarter of all victims in the eu , with girls (78 %) making up the vast majority of child victims in the eu; points out that nearly 75 % of all child victims in the eu were eu citizens; is particularly concerned about the violence , abuse and exploitation faced by child victims in the eu especially those trafficked for sexual exploitation25 ;


### 25. notes that children constitute nearly a quarter of all victims in the eu , with girls (78 %) making up the vast majority of child victims in the eu; points out that nearly 75 % of all child victims in the eu were eu citizens; is particularly concerned about child victims in the eu trafficked for sexual exploitation25 ; ### 25. notes that children constitute nearly a quarter of all victims in the eu , with girls (78 %) making up the vast majority of child victims in the eu; points out that nearly 75 % of all child victims in the eu were eu citizens; is particularly concerned about the violence , abuse and exploitation faced by child victims in the eu , especially trafficked for sexual exploitation25 ;


### 34. calls on the commission to amend the anti-trafficking directive with a view to updating its provisions , including the establishment of specific measures for the prevention and prosecution of trafficking for sexual exploitation as the largest area of thb , to address the use of online technologies in both the proliferation and the prevention of thb , to improve measures for prevention and the early identification of victims , and to strengthen a horizontal gender perspective across all forms of trafficking , as well as to ensure that member states explicitly criminalise the use of all services which involve exploitation; ### 34. calls on the commission to amend the anti-trafficking directive with a view to updating its provisions , including the establishment of specific measures for the prevention and prosecution of trafficking for sexual exploitation as the largest area of thb , to address the use of online technologies in both the proliferation and the prevention of thb , to improve measures for prevention and the early identification and protection of victims , and to strengthen a horizontal gender perspective across all forms of trafficking , as well as to ensure that member states explicitly criminalise the use of all services which involve exploitation;


### 34. calls on the commission to amend the anti-trafficking directive with a view to updating its provisions , including the establishment of specific measures for the prevention and prosecution of trafficking for sexual exploitation as the largest area of thb , to address the use of online technologies in both the proliferation and the prevention of thb , to improve measures for prevention and the early identification of victims , and to strengthen a horizontal gender perspective across all forms of trafficking , as well as to ensure that member states explicitly criminalise the use of all services which involve exploitation; ### 34. calls on the commission to amend the anti-trafficking directive with a view to updating its provisions , including the establishment of specific measures for the prevention and prosecution of trafficking for sexual exploitation as the largest area of thb , to address the use of online technologies in both the proliferation and tackling of thb , to improve measures for the early identification and protection of victims , and to strengthen a horizontal gender perspective across all forms of trafficking , as well as to ensure that member states explicitly criminalise the use of all services which involve exploitation;


### 37. calls on the commission to include in the new strategy on trafficking in human beings clear steps as regards the appointment of the eu atc; ### 37. calls on the commission to include in the new strategy on trafficking in human beings and clear steps as regards the appointment of the eu atc;


### — having regard to the international labour organization (ilo) forced labour convention , 1930 (no 29) , the protocol of 2014 to the forced labour convention , 1930 , the abolition of forced labour convention , 1957 (no 105) and the forced labour (supplementary measures) recommendation , 2014 (no 203) , ### — having regard to the international labour organization (ilo) forced labour convention , 1930 (no 29) , the protocol of 2014 to the forced labour convention , 1930 , the abolition of forced labour convention , 1957 (no 105) and the forced labour (supplementary measures) recommendation , 2014 (no 203) , the worst forms of child labour convention , 1999 (no 182) and the domestic workers convention , 2011 (no. 189) ,


### 2. commends the good work done by the eu anti-trafficking coordinator (eu atc) in coordinating the eu’s response to thb and developing knowledge and findings on the various aspects of thb , including research into the gender dimension and the particular vulnerability of children; ### 2. commends the good work done by the eu anti-trafficking coordinator (eu atc) in coordinating the eu’s response to thb and developing knowledge and findings on the various aspects of thb , including research into the gender dimension and the particular vulnerability of children; considers , however , that in order to accelerate the eu’s response to thb , the mandate of the eu anti-trafficking coordinator could be extended;


### 3. stresses the importance of the funding of the asylum , migration and integration fund (amif) and internal security fund (isf) programmes to continue to be used for projects tackling thb , as well as using other available instruments; ### 3. stresses the importance of the funding of the citizens , equality , rights and values programme including the daphne fund to continue to be used for projects tackling thb , as well as using other available instruments including , asylum , migration and integration fund (amif) and internal security fund (isf)programmes;


### 3. stresses the importance of the funding of the asylum , migration and integration fund (amif) and internal security fund (isf) programmes to continue to be used for projects tackling thb , as well as using other available instruments; ### 3. stresses the importance of the funding of the citizens , equality , rights and values programme , in particular the daphne fund to continue to be used for projects tackling thb , as well as using other available instruments , such as the asylum , migration and integration fund (amif) and internal security fund (isf) programmes;


### 4. highlights that the lack of consistent and detailed data continues to hamper the adequate assessment of trends in thb; calls on the member states to collect more up-to-date data disaggregated by age and gender and including internally trafficked people , by compiling statistical information in cooperation with civil society; ### 4. highlights that the lack of consistent , comparable and detailed data continues to hamper the adequate assessment of trends in thb; calls on the member states to collect more up-to-date data disaggregated by age , gender and racial and ethnic origin and including internally trafficked people , by compiling statistical information in cooperation with civil society; urges the member states to improve the recording and reporting of statistical data; recalls that more comprehensive evidence-based support will allow for a more accurate assessment of the nature of the problem , which is essential for future policy intervention;


### 4. highlights that the lack of consistent and detailed data continues to hamper the adequate assessment of trends in thb; calls on the member states to collect more up-to-date data disaggregated by age and gender and including internally trafficked people , by compiling statistical information in cooperation with civil society; ### 4. highlights that the lack of consistent and detailed data continues to hamper the adequate assessment of trends in thb; calls on the member states to collect more up-to-date data disaggregated by age , gender and racial and ethnic origin and including internally trafficked people , by compiling statistical information in cooperation with civil society in due respect for the rights of trafficked persons to privacy and autonomy and to protect their personal data;


### 6. calls on the commission and the member states to monitor the use of digital technologies for thb as the predominant tools used to recruit trafficking victims; ### 6. calls on the commission and the member states to monitor the use of digital technologies for thb as the predominant tools used to recruit trafficking victims; while ensuring individuals’ fundamental rights and data protection , as well as victims’ right to privacy;


### 6. calls on the commission and the member states to monitor the use of digital technologies for thb as the predominant tools used to recruit trafficking victims; ### 6. calls on the commission and the member states to monitor the use of digital technologies for thb as the predominant tools used to recruit trafficking victims , while ensuring individuals’ fundamental rights and data protection , as well as victims’ right to privacy;


### 7. highlights that the early identification of victims remains one of the main challenges to implementation , and is one of the most crucial in terms of enabling victims to exercise their rights; calls on the member states to give more actors responsibility for identifying victims of thb at all stages of the process , including civil society representatives , immigration and asylum officials , labour inspectors and social workers or healthcare staff; ### 7. highlights that the early identification of victims remains one of the main challenges to implementation , but stresses that this does not diminish the responsibility of the member states to protect them; recalls that under article 11 of the directive , member states have an obligation to establish mechanisms to ensure the early identification of , assistance to , and support for victims , in cooperation with the relevant support organisations; stresses the need for an approach based on four key strategies: prevention , prosecution , victim protection and multi-level partnership; stresses that the identification of victims is crucial for victims to exercise their rights; calls on the member states to give civil society representatives , immigration and asylum officials , labour inspectors and social workers or medical staff more power for identifying victims of thb at all stages of the process ;


### 8. calls on all member states to effectively guarantee the rights of victims and to support them with a gender-sensitive approach while ensuring complementarity with the victims’ rights directive; notes that the anti-trafficking directive prohibits the criminalisation of victims of thb; ### 8. calls on all member states to effectively guarantee the rights of victims and to support them with a gender-sensitive and gender-based approach while ensuring complementarity with the victims’ rights directive; welcomes that the anti-trafficking directive prohibits the criminalisation of victims of thb;


### 8. calls on all member states to effectively guarantee the rights of victims and to support them with a gender-sensitive approach while ensuring complementarity with the victims’ rights directive; notes that the anti-trafficking directive prohibits the criminalisation of victims of thb; ### 8. calls on all member states to effectively guarantee the rights of victims and to support them with a gender-sensitive approach while ensuring complementarity with the victims’ rights directive; welcomes that the anti-trafficking directive prohibits the criminalisation of victims of thb;


### 9. highlights that while the full impact of the covid-19 pandemic is not yet measureable , it is nevertheless clear that the crisis disproportionately affects the most vulnerable victims of thb , especially women and children; ### 9. highlights that while the full impact of the covid-19 pandemic is not yet measureable , it is nevertheless clear that the crisis disproportionately affects the most vulnerable victims of thb , especially those in precarious situations including women and children;


### 9. highlights that while the full impact of the covid-19 pandemic is not yet measureable , it is nevertheless clear that the crisis disproportionately affects the most vulnerable victims of thb , especially women and children; ### 9. highlights that while the full impact of the covid-19 pandemic is not yet measureable , it is nevertheless clear that the crisis disproportionately affects the most vulnerable victims of thb , especially women and children and those in precarious situations;


### 10. points out the need for a coherent and coordinated national referral mechanism (nrm); underlines that good cooperation between the police and non-governmental organisations (ngos) cannot be a substitute for a fully fledged nrm defining the roles and responsibilities of all relevant actors16 ; ### 10. points out the need for a coherent and coordinated national referral mechanism (nrm); underlines that good cooperation between the police and non-governmental organisations (ngos) should be complementary to a fully fledged nrm defining the roles and responsibilities of all relevant actors16 in such a way as to ensure protection and promotion of the fundamental rights of victims of trafficking;


### 11. calls on the commission to monitor and assess the situation of compensation to victims in the member states in terms of access , enforcement and actual payments , and to come forward with specific measures to ensure better access to compensation; ### 11. calls on the commission to monitor and assess the situation of compensation to victims in the member states and across borders in terms of access , enforcement and actual payments , and to come forward with specific measures to ensure better access to compensation;


### 11. calls on the commission to monitor and assess the situation of compensation to victims in the member states in terms of access , enforcement and actual payments , and to come forward with specific measures to ensure better access to compensation; ### 11. calls on the commission to monitor and assess the situation of compensation to victims in the member states and across borders in terms of access , enforcement and actual payments , and to come forward with specific measures to ensure access to compensation;


### 12. highlights that sexual exploitation remains the most prevalent form of trafficking in the eu since 2008 , as 60 % of victims are trafficked for sexual exploitation; notes that more than 90 % of these victims are women and girls , and that more than 70 % of traffickers are male; ### 12. highlights that sexual exploitation remains the most reported form of trafficking in the eu since 2008 , as 60 % of victims are trafficked for sexual exploitation; notes that more than 90 % of these victims are women and girls , and that more than 70 % of traffickers are male;


### 13. urges the member states to adopt specific measures to address violence against women and gender inequalities as the root causes of trafficking; recommends that the commission strengthen and develop the gender dimension in the monitoring of the implementation of eu anti-trafficking legislation; ### 13. urges the member states to adopt specific measures to address gender based violence including violence against women and gender inequalities as well as other root causes of trafficking; recommends that the commission strengthen and develop the gender dimension in the monitoring of the implementation of eu anti-trafficking legislation;


### 13. urges the member states to adopt specific measures to address violence against women and gender inequalities as the root causes of trafficking; recommends that the commission strengthen and develop the gender dimension in the monitoring of the implementation of eu anti-trafficking legislation; ### 13. urges the member states to adopt specific measures to address gender-based violence and violence against women as well as gender inequalities as the root causes of trafficking; recommends that the commission strengthen and develop the gender dimension in the monitoring of the implementation of eu anti-trafficking legislation;


### 14. calls on the commission , in cooperation with the member states , to examine how the demand for sexual services drives trafficking , as traffickers tend to convey their victims to countries where prostitution is regulated and lawfully practiced , making it much easier for traffickers to use a legal environment in order to exploit their victims17 ; recalls that in some eu member states where prostitution is legal , suspects were able to exploit children alongside adult victims18 ; ### 14. calls on the commission , in cooperation with the member states , to examine how the demand for sexual and cheap labour services drives trafficking , as traffickers tend to convey their victims to countries where prostitution is regulated and lawfully practiced , making it much easier for traffickers to use a legal environment in order to exploit their victims17 ; recalls that in some eu member states where prostitution is legal , suspects were able to exploit children alongside adult victims18 ;


### 15. calls on the commission to prioritise the prevention of the crime of trafficking for sexual exploitation , including through adopting measures and programmes to discourage and reduce demand , and calls on the member states to include the use of the services of victims of trafficking as a criminal offence in their national statutes , as recommended by article 8 of the anti-trafficking directive and reiterated by the commission in 201819 ; ### 15. calls on the commission to prioritise the prevention of the crime of trafficking for sexual exploitation , including through adopting measures and programmes to discourage and reduce demand , and calls on the member states to include the demand and use of the services of victims of trafficking as a criminal offence in their national statutes , as recommended by article 8 of the anti-trafficking directive and reiterated by the commission in 201819 ;


### 16. urges the member states to focus on the recurring and emerging patterns of thb for sexual exploitation , such as the increasing exploitation of children and the use of the ‘lover boy’ method as the most frequent means of recruiting victims by using online technologies; ### 16. urges the member states to focus on the recurring and emerging patterns of all forms of thb including for sexual exploitation , such as the increasing exploitation of children and the use of the ‘lover boy’ method and other frequent means of recruiting victims by using online technologies;


### 16. urges the member states to focus on the recurring and emerging patterns of thb for sexual exploitation , such as the increasing exploitation of children and the use of the ‘lover boy’ method as the most frequent means of recruiting victims by using online technologies; ### 16. urges the member states to focus on the recurring and emerging patterns of all forms of thb including for sexual exploitation , such as the increasing exploitation of children and the use of the ‘lover boy’ method and other means of recruiting victims by using online technologies;


### 17. highlights the importance of gender-sensitive training programmes for officials attending victims to enhance the early identification of those who are victims of trafficking for sexual exploitation and encourages member states to adopt measures to support victims , such as exit programmes , social and professional reintegration or sexual health services; ### 17. highlights the importance of gender-sensitive training programmes for officials attending victims to enhance the early identification of those who are victims of trafficking for forced labour or services including sexual exploitation and encourages member states to adopt measures to support victims , such as exit programmes , social and professional reintegration or sexual health services , education and access to justice;


### 17. highlights the importance of gender-sensitive training programmes for officials attending victims to enhance the early identification of those who are victims of trafficking for sexual exploitation and encourages member states to adopt measures to support victims , such as exit programmes , social and professional reintegration or sexual health services; ### 17. highlights the importance of gender-sensitive training programmes for officials attending victims to enhance the early identification of those who are victims of trafficking for forced labour and sexual exploitation and encourages member states to adopt measures to support victims , such as exit programmes , social and professional reintegration , education or sexual health services;


### 18. emphasises that migration flows can increase the risk for migrants of becoming victims of trafficking within the eu20 ; points out that there has been a sharp increase in the number of women and girls trafficked through the central mediterranean route for sexual exploitation in the eu21 ; ### 18. emphasises that migration flows can increase the risk for migrants of becoming victims of trafficking within the eu20 ; points out that there has been a sharp increase in the last years concerning the number of women and girls trafficked through the central mediterranean route for sexual exploitation in the eu21; recalls that women and children may be compelled to exchange sex for protection , in order to survive , to advance along their migratory route , and for basic sustenance; underlines that women and children engaging in survival sex are not considered trafficking victims , and thus cannot receive the required assistance;


### – having regard to the charter of fundamental rights of the european union , and in particular articles 7 , 8 , 10 , 11 , 12 , 21 , 23 , 24 , 25 , 26 and 47 thereof , ### – having regard to the charter of fundamental rights of the european union , and in particular articles 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 6 , 7 , 8 , 10 , 11 , 12 , 21 , 23 , 24 , 25 , 26 , 47 and 49 thereof ,


### a. whereas equality between women and men is a core value of the union enshrined in article 2 of the treaty on european union (teu); ### a. whereas equality between women and men is a core value of the union enshrined in article 2 of the treaty on european union (teu); whereas the right to equal treatment and non-discrimination is a fundamental right enshrined in the treaties and in the charter of fundamental rights; whereas ending male violence against women and girls is a prerequisite to achieving real equality between women and men;


### c. whereas gender-based violence is violence directed against women because they are women and it affects women disproportionately; whereas lgbti persons are also victims of gender-based violence because of their gender , gender identity , gender expression and sex characteristics; whereas gender-based violence is rooted in gender stereotypes , patriarchal structures and power asymmetries; ### c. whereas gender-based violence is violence directed against women because they are women or that affects women disproportionately; whereas lgbti persons are also victims of gender-based violence because of their gender , gender identity , gender expression and sex characteristics; whereas gender-based violence is rooted in gender stereotypes , patriarchal structures and power asymmetries;


### d. whereas the european institute for gender equality defines femicide as the killing of women and girls because of their gender; ### d. whereas the european institute for gender equality defines femicide as the killing of women and girls because of their gender; whereas it can take different forms such as the murder of women as a result of intimate partner violence , killing of women and girls because of their gender , sexual orientation , gender identity , gender expression and sex characteristics , as well as female and intersex genital mutilations and so called "honour killings";


### d. whereas the european institute for gender equality defines femicide as the killing of women and girls because of their gender; ### d. whereas the european institute for gender equality defines femicide as the killing of women and girls because of their gender; whereas femicide can take several forms , such as the murder of women as a result of intimate partner violence , killing of women and girls because of their sexual orientation , sex characteristics and gender identity and genital mutilation related deaths;


### e. whereas there is a lack of comprehensive and comparable disaggregated data on all forms of gender-based violence; ### e. whereas there is a lack of comprehensive and comparable disaggregated data on all forms of gender-based violence; whereas the lack of comparable data is also the result of a lack of harmonisation in the definitions linked to gender-based violence; whereas comprehensive and comparable disaggregated data is essential to document gender-based violence and its root causes;


### f. whereas union action aiming to eradicate violence against women and girls and other forms of gender-based violence demands that the commission pursue several parallel avenues; ### f. whereas union action aiming to eradicate violence against women and girls and other forms of gender-based violence demands that the commission pursue several parallel avenues including proposing the extension of eurocrimes to gender-based violence and at the same time proposing a directive on gender-based violence using article 83(1) tfeu as a legal basis;


### 1. condemns all forms of violence against women and girls and other forms of gender-based violence , such as violence against lgbti persons , and deplores the fact that women and girls continue to be exposed to psychological , physical , sexual and economic violence , including sexual exploitation and trafficking in human beings , both online and offline; ### 1. condemns all forms of violence against women and girls and other forms of gender-based violence , such as violence against lgbti persons on the grounds of gender , gender identity , gender expression or sex characteristics , and deplores the fact that women and girls continue to be exposed to psychological , physical , sexual and economic violence , including sexual exploitation and trafficking in human beings , both online and offline;


### 1. condemns all forms of violence against women and girls and other forms of gender-based violence , such as violence against lgbti persons , and deplores the fact that women and girls continue to be exposed to psychological , physical , sexual and economic violence , including sexual exploitation and trafficking in human beings , both online and offline; ### 1. condemns all forms of violence against women and girls in all their diversity and other forms of gender-based violence , such as violence against lgbti persons , and deplores the fact that women and girls continue to be exposed to psychological , physical , sexual and economic violence , including sexual exploitation and trafficking in human beings , both online and offline;


### 3. stresses that violence against women and other forms of gender-based violence are the result of the unequal distribution of power , patriarchal structures , and gender stereotypes , that have led to domination over and discrimination against women by men; underlines that this situation is aggravated by social and economic inequalities; ### 3. stresses that violence against women and other forms of gender-based violence are the result of the unequal distribution of power , patriarchal structures , and gender stereotypes , that have led to domination over and discrimination against women and lgbti persons by men; underlines that this situation is aggravated by social and economic inequalities;


### 3. stresses that violence against women and other forms of gender-based violence are the result of the unequal distribution of power , patriarchal structures , and gender stereotypes , that have led to domination over and discrimination against women by men; underlines that this situation is aggravated by social and economic inequalities; ### 3. stresses that violence against women and other forms of gender-based violence are the result of the unequal distribution of power , patriarchal structures , and gender stereotypes , that have led to domination over and discrimination against women by men as well as violence directed towards lgbti people; underlines that this situation is aggravated by social and economic inequalities that led to pay and pension gaps , the feminization of precarious work and more precarious living conditions for women;


### 4. underlines the wide range of psychological impacts that gender-based violence has on victims , including stress , concentration problems , anxiety , panic attacks , low self-esteem , depression , post-traumatic stress disorder , lack of trust and of sense of control; recalls that gender-based violence also has a social and economic impact; ### 4. underlines the wide range of impacts that gender-based violence has on victims , including stress , concentration problems , anxiety , panic attacks , low self-esteem , depression , post-traumatic stress disorder , lack of trust and of sense of control , as well as fear or even suicidal thoughts; recalls that gender-based violence also has democratic , social and economic impacts , such as the loss of jobs or the withdrawal from public life , which reinforce the disadvantaged position of women; stresses that gender-based violence is exercised as a form of coercive control over women which prevents their full civic participation and the free development of their lives;


### 4. underlines the wide range of psychological impacts that gender-based violence has on victims , including stress , concentration problems , anxiety , panic attacks , low self-esteem , depression , post-traumatic stress disorder , lack of trust and of sense of control; recalls that gender-based violence also has a social and economic impact; ### 4. underlines the wide range of psychological impacts that gender-based violence has on victims and witnesses , including feeling unsafe or vulnerable , stress , concentration problems , anxiety , panic attacks , low self-esteem , depression , post-traumatic stress disorder , lack of trust and of sense of control; recalls that gender-based violence also has a social and economic impact;


### 5. stresses that the council of europe convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence (the ‘istanbul convention’) remains the international standard and a key tool for the eradication of gender-based violence by following a holistic and coordinated approach that places the rights of the victim at the centre and addresses the issues from a wide range of perspectives; ### 5. stresses that the council of europe convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence (the ‘istanbul convention’) remains the international standard and a key tool for the eradication of gender-based violence by following a holistic and coordinated approach that places the rights of the victim at the centre and addresses the issues from a wide range of perspectives; stresses the need for all member states in the eu to ratify the istanbul convention and to fully implement all its provisions as well as the need for the eu to access the convention; notes with concerns the attempts in some member states to promote campaigns against the istanbul convention which deny the existence of gender-based violence;


### 6. denounces the fact that the combat against gender-based violence is negatively affected by the attack on women’s rights and gender equality; condemns the actions of anti-gender and anti-women movements in europe and worldwide that aim to overturn existing laws on women’s rights and lgbti+ rights; ### 6. denounces the fact that the combat against gender-based violence is negatively affected by the attack on women’s rights and gender equality; condemns the actions of anti-gender and anti-women movements in europe and worldwide that systematically attack women’s and lgbti+ rights , including sexual and reproductive rights , and aim to overturn existing laws that protect them; urges the commission to ensure that all civil society organisations that receive eu financial support do not promote gender discrimination;


### 7. insists on actions to prevent gender-based violence by addressing the underlying causes , including counteracting sexism , gender stereotypes and patriarchal values; underlines the need for gender equality to have a central place in education and the need for awareness-raising campaigns; ### 7. insists on actions to prevent gender-based violence by addressing the underlying causes , including counteracting sexism , patriarchal gender norms , stereotypes and values; underlines the need for gender equality to have a central place in education and the need for awareness-raising campaigns , including comprehensive sexuality education , feminist self-defence training , and more general actions to combat segregation , gender inequality and discrimination; welcomes the commission’s commitment in the gender equality strategy affirming that “educating boys and girls from an early age about gender equality and supporting the development of non-violent relationships” is key for effective prevention;


### 7. insists on actions to prevent gender-based violence by addressing the underlying causes , including counteracting sexism , gender stereotypes and patriarchal values; underlines the need for gender equality to have a central place in education and the need for awareness-raising campaigns; ### 7. insists on actions to prevent gender-based violence by addressing the underlying causes , including counteracting sexism , gender stereotypes and patriarchal values; underlines the need for gender equality to have a central place in education and the need for awareness-raising campaigns; recalls the commission’s proposal in the gender equality strategy for an eu-wide campaign on gender stereotypes and calls on member states to fully support and implement the initiative when launched;


### 8. calls on the commission and the member states to improve the regular availability and comparability of quality , disaggregated data on all forms of gender-based violence through cooperation with eurostat , the european union agency for fundamental rights and the european institute for gender equality; ### 8. calls on the commission and the member states to improve the regular availability and comparability of quality , disaggregated data on all forms of gender-based violence through cooperation with eurostat , the european union agency for fundamental rights and the european institute for gender equality; stresses that in order to increase our understanding of gender-based violence , it is necessary to ensure that at least the following categories are included in the data collection , already at the level of law enforcement intervention: a) gender of the victim , b) gender of the perpetrator , c) relationship between victim and perpetrator , d) existence of a sexual violence dimension , e) does the violence have a gendered motivation;


### 9. highlights the need for targeted policies to address the situation of survivors who experience intersectional forms of discrimination , such as women refugees , asylum seekers and migrants , indigenous women , racialised women , women from religious and ethnic minorities , lesbian , bisexual and trans women , elderly women and women with disabilities; ### 9. highlights the need for targeted policies with an intersectional approach to address the situation of survivors who experience intersectional forms of discrimination , such as women refugees , asylum seekers and migrants , indigenous women , racialised women , women from religious and ethnic minorities , lesbian , bisexual and trans women , older women , women with disabilities and women in poverty;


### 9. highlights the need for targeted policies to address the situation of survivors who experience intersectional forms of discrimination , such as women refugees , asylum seekers and migrants , indigenous women , racialised women , women from religious and ethnic minorities , lesbian , bisexual and trans women , elderly women and women with disabilities; ### 9. highlights the need for targeted policies to address the situation of survivors who experience intersectional forms of discrimination , such as women refugees , asylum seekers and migrants , indigenous women , racialised women , women from religious and ethnic minorities , lesbian , bisexual , trans and intersex women , elderly women and women with disabilities , as well as non-binary persons;


### 10. recalls that violations of sexual and reproductive rights are a form of violence against women and girls; ### 10. recalls that violations of sexual and reproductive rights , including sexual violence , reproductive coercion and specifically denial of abortion care , gynaecologic and obstetrical violence and harmful practices , are a form of gender-based violence against women and girls , and stresses that the ecthr has ruled on several occasions that restrictive abortion laws and lack of implementation violates the human rights of women;


### 10. recalls that violations of sexual and reproductive rights are a form of violence against women and girls; ### 10. recalls that violations of sexual and reproductive rights are a form of violence against women and girls , as well as transgender and non-binary persons , as reflected in the lgbtiq equality strategy;


### 11. notes that the commission must address the particular situation of migrant women’s protection against gender-based violence , and recalls that under directive 2012/29/eu of the european parliament and of the council6 access to appropriate protection , support services and effective remedies must be available to all victims of gender-based violence , independent of their residence status; ### 11. notes that the commission must address the particular situation of migrant women’s protection against gender-based violence , in particular dependency of residence status of the victim of intra partner violence on cohabitation and marital status , and recalls that under directive 2012/29/eu of the european parliament and of the council6 access to appropriate protection , support services and effective remedies must be available to all victims of gender-based violence , independent of their residence status;


### 12. calls on member states to take all necessary measures to promote the protection of women and girls in all their diversity and all survivors of gender-based violence against all forms of violence; ### 12. calls on member states to take all necessary measures to promote the protection of women and girls in all their diversity and all survivors of gender-based violence against all forms of violence , including by paying greater attention to the needs of survivors who experience intersectional forms of discrimination and violence;


### 13. underlines the obligation on member states to ensure that there is support and services for survivors of gender-based violence; recalls the importance , in that context , of support to independent civil society and women’s shelter organisations; ### 13. underlines the obligation on member states to permanently ensure that there is support and services for survivors of gender-based violence adapted to the specific needs of each type of gender-based violence; recalls the importance , in that context , of support to independent civil society and women’s shelter organisations , who are the ones with the know-how needed to ensure feminist and non-paternalistic protection , ensure support throughout all stages of the reparation processes , and enforce the right to information; calls on member states to guarantee access for victims to support services and essential services , including sexual and reproductive health services , also in rural areas; firmly supports the availability of public services in any step of the victims’ support;


### 13. underlines the obligation on member states to ensure that there is support and services for survivors of gender-based violence; recalls the importance , in that context , of support to independent civil society and women’s shelter organisations; ### 13. underlines the obligation on member states to ensure that there is support and services for survivors of gender-based violence; recalls the importance , in that context , of support to independent civil society and women’s and specialised shelter organisations;


### 14. calls on the member states to step up their work in order to ensure that victims have access to justice , and to guarantee that the rights of the victim are placed at the centre in order to avoid discrimination , traumatisation or revictimisation during judicial , medical and police proceedings; ### 14. calls on the member states to step up their work in order to ensure that victims have access to an independent judicial system is physically , economically , socially and culturally available to all survivors of gender-based violence , and to guarantee that the rights of the victim are placed at the centre in order to avoid discrimination , traumatisation or revictimisation during judicial , medical and police proceedings;


### 14. calls on the member states to step up their work in order to ensure that victims have access to justice , and to guarantee that the rights of the victim are placed at the centre in order to avoid discrimination , traumatisation or revictimisation during judicial , medical and police proceedings; ### 14. calls on the member states to step up their work in order to ensure that victims have access to justice , including restorative justice , and to guarantee that the rights of the victim are placed at the centre in order to avoid discrimination , traumatisation or revictimisation during judicial , medical and police proceedings; underlines with concern that most member states still have issues with complete/correct transposition and/or practical application of the victim’s rights directive , as reflected in the commission’s strategy on victim’s rights , and calls on their due diligence for its complete and correct transposition;


### 15. calls on the member states to improve the resources and training of practitioners , law enforcement officers and all professionals dealing with victims of gender-based violence; calls on members states to ensure that victims have the right to state-funded legal aid before and during legal proceedings; ### 15. calls on the member states to improve the resources and training of practitioners , law enforcement officers , including judges , public prosecutors and forensic experts , and all professionals dealing with victims of gender-based violence , including the possibility of establishing specialised courts for that purpose; calls on members states to ensure that victims have the right to state-funded legal aid before and during legal proceedings;


### 16. stresses that gender-based violence is a serious crime and a widespread violation of fundamental rights in the union which needs to be addressed with greater efficiency and determination on a common basis; stresses that gender-based violence is the result of a patriarchal society that has a cross-border dimension; points , in particular , at the growing anti-gender and anti-women movements , which are well organised and have a cross-border nature; ### 16. stresses that gender-based violence is a serious crime and a widespread violation of fundamental rights in the union which needs to be addressed with greater efficiency and determination on a common basis; stresses that gender-based violence is the result of a patriarchal society that has a cross-border dimension; points , in particular , at the growing anti-gender and anti-women movements , which are well organised and have a cross-border nature , and which therefore call for a coordinated eu response;


### 17. stresses that the special need to combat violence against women and girls and other forms of gender-based violence on a common basis also results from the need to establish minimum rules concerning the definition of criminal offences and sanctions; ### 17. stresses that the special need to combat violence against women and girls and other forms of gender-based violence on a common basis also results from the need to establish minimum rules concerning the definition of criminal offences and sanctions as well as on the key issues of prevention , under-reporting , victim’s protection , support and reparation , and the prosecution of perpetrators , where member states approaches and level of commitment varies significantly;


### 17. stresses that the special need to combat violence against women and girls and other forms of gender-based violence on a common basis also results from the need to establish minimum rules concerning the definition of criminal offences and sanctions; ### 17. stresses that the special need to combat violence against women and girls in all their diversity and other forms of gender-based violence on a common basis also results from the need to establish minimum rules concerning the definition of criminal offences and sanctions;


### 19. calls on the commission to propose a directive on gender-based violence that implements the standards of the istanbul convention and includes the following elements: prevention , including through gender-sensitive education programming directed at both girls and boys , and empowerment of women and girls; support services and protection measures for survivors; combating all forms of gender-based violence , including violations of women’s sexual and reproductive health and rights; and minimum standards for law enforcement; ### 19. calls on the commission to propose a directive on gender-based violence that implements the standards of the istanbul convention and cedaw and includes the following elements: prevention measures , including through gender-sensitive education programming directed at both girls and boys , and empowerment of women and girls; support services , protection and reparation measures for survivors; measures to combat all forms of gender-based violence , including violations of women’s sexual and reproductive health and rights and violence against lgbti persons on the grounds of gender , gender identity , gender expression and sex characteristics; minimum standards for law enforcement; and that takes into account a victims-centred and intersectional approach;


### 19. calls on the commission to propose a directive on gender-based violence that implements the standards of the istanbul convention and includes the following elements: prevention , including through gender-sensitive education programming directed at both girls and boys , and empowerment of women and girls; support services and protection measures for survivors; combating all forms of gender-based violence , including violations of women’s sexual and reproductive health and rights; and minimum standards for law enforcement; ### 19. calls on the commission to propose a directive on gender-based violence that implements the standards of the istanbul convention and includes the following elements: prevention , including through gender-sensitive education programming directed at both girls and boys in all their diversity , and empowerment of women and girls in all their diversity; support services and protection measures for survivors; combating all forms of gender-based violence , including violations of women’s , transgender's and non-binary persons' sexual and reproductive health and rights; and minimum standards for law enforcement;


### a. whereas the first objective of the union’s gender equality strategy 2020-2025 focuses on ending gender-based violence and describes it as ‘one of our societies’ biggest challenges’; ### a. whereas the first objective of the union’s gender equality strategy 2020-2025 focuses on ending gender-based violence and describes it as ‘one of our societies’ biggest challenges’; whereas the union’s lgbtiq equality strategy recalls that everyone has a right to safety , be it at home , in public or online;


### b. whereas violence against women and other forms of gender-based violence are widespread in the union and are to be understood as an extreme form of discrimination; whereas gender-based violence is rooted in the unequal distribution of power between women and men , in sexism and gender stereotypes , which have led to domination over and discrimination against women by men; ### b. whereas violence against women and other forms of gender-based violence are widespread in the union and are to be understood as an extreme form of discrimination; whereas gender-based violence is rooted in the unequal distribution of power between women and men , in sexism and gender norms and stereotypes , which have led to domination over and discrimination against women and girls in all their diversity by men; whereas gender-based violence also occurs due to perceived deviation from gender norms;


### b. whereas violence against women and other forms of gender-based violence are widespread in the union and are to be understood as an extreme form of discrimination; whereas gender-based violence is rooted in the unequal distribution of power between women and men , in sexism and gender stereotypes , which have led to domination over and discrimination against women by men; ### b. whereas violence against women and other forms of gender-based violence are widespread in the union and are to be understood as an extreme form of discrimination; whereas gender-based violence is rooted in patriarchal structures , the unequal distribution of power between women and men , sexism and gender stereotypes , which have led to domination over and discrimination against women and lgbti people by men;


### c. whereas violence against women and gender-based violence present different but not mutually exclusive forms and manifestations; whereas those different forms of violence are often interlinked and inseparable from offline violence because they can precede , accompany or continue them; ### c. whereas violence against women and lgbti persons and gender-based violence present different but not mutually exclusive forms and manifestations; whereas those different forms of violence are often interlinked with , and inseparable from , offline violence because they can precede , accompany or continue them;


### c. whereas violence against women and gender-based violence present different but not mutually exclusive forms and manifestations; whereas those different forms of violence are often interlinked and inseparable from offline violence because they can precede , accompany or continue them; ### c. whereas violence against women and girls and gender-based violence present different but not mutually exclusive forms and manifestations; whereas those different forms of violence are often interlinked and inseparable from offline violence because they can precede , accompany or continue them;


### d. whereas cyber harassment , cyber stalking , cyber bullying , trolling , online hate speech , flaming , doxxing and image-based sexual abuse are among the most common types of gender-based cyberviolence; whereas some member states have adopted specific legislation on some of those particular forms only; ### d. whereas among the most common types of gender-based cyberviolence are cyber harassment , cyberstalking , including the accessing , taking , sharing as well as the creation and manipulation of data or images , including intimate data , without consent , and hate speech online , coercive control by digital surveillance and control of the communications via stalkerware and spyware apps; whereas some member states have adopted specific legislations on some of these specific forms only;


### d. whereas cyber harassment , cyber stalking , cyber bullying , trolling , online hate speech , flaming , doxxing and image-based sexual abuse are among the most common types of gender-based cyberviolence; whereas some member states have adopted specific legislation on some of those particular forms only; ### d. whereas cyber harassment , cyber stalking , cyber bullying , trolling , online hate speech , flaming , doxxing , dead-naming and image-based sexual abuse are among the most common types of gender-based cyberviolence; whereas some member states have adopted specific legislation on some of those particular forms only;


### e. whereas , despite a growing awareness of the phenomenon of gender-based cyberviolence , the lack of collection of exhaustive and recent data and the underreporting of cases of gender-based cyberviolence prevents an accurate assessment of its prevalence; whereas the european added value assessment on gender-based cyberviolence estimates that between 4 and 7% of women in the union have experienced cyber harassment during the past 12 months , while between 1 and 3% have experienced cyber stalking; ### e. whereas there is a lack of comprehensive and comparable disaggregated data on all forms of gender-based violence; whereas despite a growing awareness of this phenomenon , the lack of comprehensive and comparable disaggregated data collection on all forms of gender-based violence prevents an accurate assessment of its prevalence; whereas the lack of comparable data is also the result of a lack of harmonisation in the definitions linked to gender-based violence; whereas comprehensive and comparable disaggregated data is essential to document all forms of gender-based violence and its root causes;


### f. whereas women can be targeted by cyberviolence either individually or as members of a specific community; whereas intersectional forms of discrimination can exacerbate the consequences of gender-based cyberviolence; ### f. whereas women in all their diversity can be targeted by cyberviolence either individually or as members of a specific community; whereas targeting of lgbti persons is often on the grounds of their gender identity , gender expression or sex characteristics; whereas intersectional forms of discrimination increase the exposure to violence for women belonging to ethnic minorities , with disabilities , as well as lesbian , bisexual , transgender and intersex women , and can exacerbate the consequences of gender-based cyberviolence;


### f. whereas women can be targeted by cyberviolence either individually or as members of a specific community; whereas intersectional forms of discrimination can exacerbate the consequences of gender-based cyberviolence; ### f. whereas intersectional forms of discrimination can exacerbate the consequences of gender-based cyberviolence; whereas women and girls belonging to ethnic or religious communities , racialized women and girls , women and girls with disabilities , lgbti people or teenagers , are bigger targets to online attacks;


### g. whereas some women , such as politicians , women in public positions , journalists , bloggers and human rights defenders , are particularly impacted by gender-based cyberviolence , and whereas this is causing not only psychological harm and suffering to them but also deterring them from participating digitally in political , social and cultural life; ### g. whereas some women , such as politicians , women in public positions , journalists , activists , artists , bloggers and human rights defenders , are particularly impacted by gender-based cyberviolence , and whereas this is causing not only psychological harm and suffering to them but also deterring them from participating digitally in political , social and cultural life;


### g. whereas some women , such as politicians , women in public positions , journalists , bloggers and human rights defenders , are particularly impacted by gender-based cyberviolence , and whereas this is causing not only psychological harm and suffering to them but also deterring them from participating digitally in political , social and cultural life; ### g. whereas some women and lgbti persons , such as politicians , women in public positions , journalists , bloggers and human rights defenders , are particularly impacted by gender-based cyberviolence , and whereas this is causing not only psychological harm and suffering to them but also deterring them from participating digitally in political , social and cultural life;


### h. whereas gender-based cyberviolence impacts on mental health , on the full exercise of fundamental rights and even on democracy , and has consequences on society , including an economic impact; ### h. whereas gender-based cyberviolence impacts on mental and physical health , on the full exercise of fundamental rights and on democracy , and has consequences on society , including an economic impact;


### 2. welcomes the union’s gender equality strategy 2020-2025 put forward by the commission as a tool to combat violence against women and gender-based violence and to tackle the root causes of it; ### 2. welcomes the union’s gender equality strategy 2020-2025 put forward by the commission as a tool to combat violence against women in all their diversity and gender-based violence and to tackle the root causes of it;


### 3. stresses that the covid-19 pandemic has increased the risk of domestic violence and abuse because victims are forced to spend more time with perpetrators and they tend to be more isolated from support networks; calls on member states to increase the assistance they offer through shelters , helplines and support services to protect victims and facilitate the reporting of gender-based violence; ### 3. stresses that the covid-19 pandemic has increased the risk of domestic violence and abuse because victims are forced to spend more time with perpetrators and they tend to be more isolated from support networks; highlights that many lgbti persons were forced to be confined with family members , legal guardians or co-habitants who harassed , abused or exposed them to violence; calls on member states to increase the assistance they offer through specialised shelters , helplines and support services to protect victims and facilitate the reporting of gender-based violence;


### 3. stresses that the covid-19 pandemic has increased the risk of domestic violence and abuse because victims are forced to spend more time with perpetrators and they tend to be more isolated from support networks; calls on member states to increase the assistance they offer through shelters , helplines and support services to protect victims and facilitate the reporting of gender-based violence; ### 3. stresses that the covid-19 pandemic has increased the risk of domestic violence and abuse , which can be physical , sexual , psychological or economic , because victims are forced to spend more time with perpetrators and they tend to be more isolated from support networks; urges member states to increase the assistance they offer through shelters , helplines and support services to protect victims and facilitate the reporting of gender-based violence;


### 4. underlines the transnational nature of gender-based cyberviolence , considering the cross-border dimension of the use of ict; ### 4. underlines the transnational nature of all human rights violations , including gender-based cyberviolence; stresses that gender-based cyberviolence has additional transnational implications considering the cross-border dimension of the use of ict;


### 5. calls on the member states to promote awareness raising , to implement national criminal justice laws and specific policies and programmes to prevent gender-based cyberviolence and to fight against impunity for those who commit such acts; ### 5. calls on the member states to promote awareness-raising , implement adequate national legislation , including criminal justice legislation , as well as specific policies and programmes to prevent gender-based cyberviolence such as educational programmes to address the root causes of gender-based violence in order to remove gender stereotypes and change social and cultural attitudes and programmes on digital education , literacy and skills , as well as policies and programmes to support and ensure reparation for the victims , including measures and education/trainings for justice officials and police forces for a better care of the victims of gender-based cyberviolence who decide to file complaints and face many obstacles when they want to do so , and to fight against impunity for those who commit such acts , including by revising and amending the current national provisions related to restraining orders that do not include breaching restraining orders through cyberviolence;


### 6. urges the commission and the member states to establish a reliable system for regularly collecting statistical disaggregated and comparable data on gender-based violence , including cyberviolence; ### 6. urges the commission and the member states to establish a reliable system for regularly collecting statistical disaggregated and comparable data on gender-based violence , including cyberviolence; recalls that comprehensive disaggregated and comparable data would help to measure the scale of the phenomenon and to find solutions; calls on the member states to collect and provide the relevant data when requested , including to eurostat; welcomes the commission’s commitment to carry out a eu survey on gender-based violence with the results to be presented in 2023;


### 7. notes that inter alia stress , concentration problems , anxiety , panic attacks , low self-esteem , depression , post-traumatic stress disorder , lack of trust and lack of sense of control , caused by cyberviolence , can have an impact on mental health; ### 7. notes that inter alia stress , concentration problems , anxiety , panic attacks , low self-esteem , depression , post-traumatic stress disorder , lack of trust and lack of sense of control , caused by cyberviolence , can have an impact on mental health and may lead to self-harm and suicidal ideation;


### 7. notes that inter alia stress , concentration problems , anxiety , panic attacks , low self-esteem , depression , post-traumatic stress disorder , lack of trust and lack of sense of control , caused by cyberviolence , can have an impact on mental health; ### 7. notes that inter alia stress , concentration problems , anxiety , panic attacks , low self-esteem , depression , post-traumatic stress disorder , lack of trust and lack of sense of control , and fear or even suicidal thoughts , caused by cyberviolence , can have an impact on mental health;


### 8. underlines that gender-based cyberviolence generates psychological , social and economic consequences; ### 8. underlines that gender-based cyberviolence generates psychological , social and economic impacts; notes that gender-based cyberviolence affects women and girls in different ways as a consequence of overlapping forms of discrimination based , on top of their gender , on their sexual orientation , race , religion or disability , among other , and recalls that an intersectional approach is crucial to understanding these specific forms of discrimination;


### 9. calls on the member states to give particular attention to women belonging to groups put in a vulnerable situation as regards gender-based cyberviolence and to develop specific support services and educational programmes dedicated to those specific groups; ### 9. calls on the member states to give particular attention to women and girls belonging to groups put in a vulnerable situation as regards gender-based cyberviolence and to develop specific free of charge support services , including emergency and long-term support , such as psychological , medical , legal , practical and socio-economic support , and programmes , particularly on digital education , literacy and skills , dedicated to those specific groups;


### 9. calls on the member states to give particular attention to women belonging to groups put in a vulnerable situation as regards gender-based cyberviolence and to develop specific support services and educational programmes dedicated to those specific groups; ### 9. calls on the member states to give particular attention to women belonging to groups put in a vulnerable situation , such as women belonging to ethnic minorities , with disabilities , lesbian , bisexual , transgender and intersex women , as well as lgbti persons in general and in particular lgbti youth , as regards gender-based cyberviolence and to develop specific support services and educational programmes dedicated to those specific groups;


### 10. deplores the fact that gender-based cyberviolence reduces the participation of women in public debate which , as a consequence , erodes the democratic principles of the union; regrets that that ‘silencing effect’ has been particularly aimed at targeting women activists , journalists and politicians with the intention of discouraging the presence of women in political life and decision-making spheres; ### 10. deplores that gender-based cyberviolence reduces the participation of women and lgbti people from public life and debate which , as consequence , degrades our democracy and prevents women and lgbti people to fully enjoy their fundamental rights and freedoms; further deplores that gender-based cyberviolence also leds to self-censorship; regrets that this ‘silencing effect’ has been particularly aimed at targeting women activists , journalists , politicians , human rights defenders , artists and bloggers , with the intention of discouraging the presence of women in the political life and decision-making spheres; is concerned that the chilling effect caused by gender-based cyberviolence is often spilled over into reality offline;


### 11. recalls that gender stereotypes are at the core of gender discrimination and are one of the main barriers to the entry of women and girls in the ict and digital fields; stresses the need to tackle the gender gap in the ict sector through education , awareness-raising campaigns and the promotion of the representation of women in the sector; ### 11. regrets the fact that the gender gap exists across all digital technology domains , including new technologies such as ai , but is especially concerned about the gender gap in the field of technological innovation and research; reminds that gender stereotypes are at the core of gender discrimination and are one of the main barriers to women and girls’ entry into the ict and digital fields; urges the commission and the member states to tackle the gender gap particularly in sectors such as the ict and stem , notably through facilitating the access of women and girls to education and academia in these sectors , and promoting awareness raising campaigns and the representation of women in these sectors , in particular in decision-making positions;


### 11. recalls that gender stereotypes are at the core of gender discrimination and are one of the main barriers to the entry of women and girls in the ict and digital fields; stresses the need to tackle the gender gap in the ict sector through education , awareness-raising campaigns and the promotion of the representation of women in the sector; ### 11. recalls that gender norms and stereotypes are at the core of gender discrimination and are one of the main barriers to the entry of women and girls in the ict and digital fields; stresses the need to tackle the gender gap in the ict sector through education , awareness-raising campaigns and the promotion of the representation of women in the sector;