### g. whereas the reform of the electoral act of 1976 , as adopted by the european parliament in its legislative resolution of 4 july 2018 on the draft council decision amending the act concerning the election of the members of the european parliament by direct universal suffrage , annexed to council decision 76/787/ecsc , eec , euratom of 20 september 197614 , is still not fully ratified owing to the unwillingness of germany , spain and cyprus to take the last necessary steps in their national legislation , and thereby blocking the evolution of the regulatory framework for european elections; ### g. whereas the reform of the electoral act of 1976 , as adopted by the european parliament in its legislative resolution of 4 july 2018 on the draft council decision amending the act concerning the election of the members of the european parliament by direct universal suffrage , annexed to council decision 76/787/ecsc , eec , euratom of 20 september 197614 , is still not fully ratified , which constitutes an opportunity to restart the negotiations and improve the electoral act of 1976;


### h. whereas the amended electoral act , still pending ratification by some member states , already requires further improvements (i.e. regarding parental leave for meps); ### h. whereas the amended electoral act , still pending ratification by some member states , already requires further improvements (i.e. regarding parental leave for meps and zip lists);


### i. whereas the outcome of the 2019 european elections fragmented political representation in parliament , leading to increased complexity in the decision-making process; ### deleted


### j. whereas the 2019 elections failed to culminate in the choice of a commission president from among the various spitzenkandidaten , resulting in a backward step from the process which was established in 2014; ### j. whereas the 2019 elections failed to culminate in the choice of a commission president from among the various spitzenkandidaten , resulting in a backward step from the process which was established in 2014 consequently reducing the trust in the process;;


### m. whereas institutional improvements such as transnational lists , as acknowledged by parliament in its resolution of 7 february 2018 on the composition of the european parliament , or the transformation of the council into a second legislative chamber of the union , as proposed in its resolution of 16 february 2017 on possible evolutions of and adjustments to the current institutional set-up of the european union , would radically transform the european elections into one true european election , as opposed to the collection of 27 separate national elections that it is today; ### m. whereas institutional improvements such as placing european political parties at the centre european elections , as intended in article 10(4) of the treaty on european union , transnational lists , as acknowledged by parliament in its resolution of 7 february 2018 on the composition of the european parliament , or the transformation of the council into a second legislative chamber of the union , as proposed in its resolution of 16 february 2017 on possible evolutions of and adjustments to the current institutional set-up of the european union , would radically transform the european elections into one true european election , as opposed to the collection of 27 separate national elections that it is today;


### n. whereas the intensified political exchanges in parliament have also highlighted the shortcomings of several standing procedures such as the hearings of commissioners-designate , with particular regard to the conditions for the legal assessment of their applications (e.g. declarations of financial interests); ### n. whereas the intensified political exchanges in parliament have improved in comparison to previous iterations , but also highlighted the shortcomings of several standing procedures such as the hearings of commissioners-designate , with particular regard to the conditions for the legal assessment of their applications (e.g. declarations of financial interests);


### p. whereas the commission’s requests to social media platforms ahead of the elections created confusion and had unintended consequences such as the ban on europe-wide political advertisements , which is the only way for european political parties to advertise during european election campaigns; whereas especially on that matter , the institutions should develop an interinstitutional approach in order to have a positive impact on the security and stability of the electoral process; ### p. whereas the commission’s requests to social media platforms ahead of the elections created confusion and had unintended consequences such as the ban on europe-wide political advertisements , which is the only way for european political parties to advertise during european election campaigns; whereas especially on that matter , the institutions should develop an interinstitutional approach in order to have a positive impact on the security and stability of the electoral process; whereas the code of practice is purely voluntary and focuses on transparency rather than on actual limits like targeted political advertisement;


### r. whereas european political parties face various restrictions to campaigning during european elections and are prohibited from campaigning in national referendums on european matters; ### r. whereas european political parties face various restrictions to campaigning during european elections , including the limited possibility to finance campaigns and shared activities with their national member parties and are prohibited from campaigning in national referendums on european matters;


### 1. takes note of the higher turnout in the 2019 european elections; considers that this shows that an increasing proportion of citizens consider the eu to be the appropriate level at which to address the challenges of our time such as climate change and environmental concerns , social and gender inequalities , sustainable growth , and geopolitical concerns such as migration and foreign policy; urges all the european institutions , therefore , to take responsibility and to act upon the mandate they have been given , directly or indirectly , by the citizens; regrets both the lack of decisiveness by the council and the lack of clear intent to achieve solutions based on a common approach; ### 1. takes note of the higher turnout in the 2019 european elections; considers that this shows that an increasing proportion of citizens consider the eu to be the appropriate level at which to address the challenges of our time such as climate change and environmental concerns , social and gender inequalities , sustainable growth , and geopolitical concerns such as migration and foreign policy; urges all the european institutions , therefore , to take responsibility and to act upon the mandate they have been given , directly or indirectly , by the citizens; regrets both the lack of decisiveness by the council on rules governing the european elections and the lack of clear intent to achieve solutions based on a common approach;


### 3. deplores the fact that the outcome of the elections did not lead to genuine gender balance in parliament; calls on the commission , in cooperation with parliament and other bodies such as the venice commission , to formulate recommendations to member states with a view to increasing the representation of women in the european parliament; ### 3. deplores the fact that the outcome of the elections did not lead to genuine gender balance in parliament; calls on the commission , in cooperation with parliament and other bodies such as the venice commission , to formulate recommendations to member states with a view to increasing the representation of women in the european parliament; calls on the european parliament to initiate a revision of the electoral law , notably with a view to introduce mandatory zipped list


### 8. considers that the outcome of the european elections has reinforced the political dimension of the election of the european commission , and therefore the need for more accurate and objective scrutiny of the declarations of interests of the commissioners-designate; calls for the creation of an independent body , endowed with the appropriate means , to have this scrutiny included in its responsibilities; ### 8. considers that the outcome of the european elections has reinforced the political dimension of the election of the european commission , and therefore the need for more accurate and objective scrutiny of the declarations of interests of the commissioners-designate; calls for the creation of an independent ethics body , endowed with the appropriate means , to have this scrutiny included in its responsibilities;


### 9. regrets that the attribution of portfolios in the commission follows solely a logic where national interests take priority over the european common interest; ### 9. regrets that the attribution of portfolios in the commission follows solely a logic where national interests and representation take priority over the european common interest and asks for a reflection of this process and a distribution based on expertise and political priorities; recalls that under article 17 (teu) the amount of portfolios should be dependent on principles of good governance.;


### 10. insists that all european voters should be allowed to vote for their preferred candidate for the president of the commission; reiterates , therefore , that the spitzenkandidaten should be able to stand as official candidates at the next elections in a joint european constituency across all member states; ### 10. insists that all european voters should be allowed to vote for their preferred candidate for the president of the commission ; reiterates , therefore , that the spitzenkandidaten should be able to stand as official candidates at the next elections in a joint european constituency across all member states elected by a european political party or movement and standing for a unified european electoral program available in at least all official languages of the eu; believes a limited number of elected members of the european parliament in such european constituency would be likely candidates for the posts of commission president , commissioners and political group presidents or vice presidents with a high accountability towards all eu citizens , whereas a larger number of such representatives would likely strengthen the role of european political parties and establish a division of constituency responsibilities as is already today the case in bigger multi-person constituencies , assuring in either case the desirable accountability of elected representatives by citizens in their constituencies;


### 11. believes that granting european voters a second vote for transnational lists in a joint european constituency , drawn up by european political parties and movements , would elevate the european elections above purely national campaigns based on national interests , particularly if such lists were headed by the respective spitzenkandidaten; ### 11. believes that granting european voters a second vote for transnational lists in a joint european constituency , drawn up by european political parties or movements , would elevate the european elections above purely national campaigns based on national interests ultimately aiming to strengthen european political parties to be able to present their own election lists for both the transnational and national constituencies , particularly if such lists were headed by the respective spitzenkandidaten; considers that rules concerning the constitution of these transnational lists can easily ensure geographical balance;


### 13. acknowledges that despite the fact that the agreed reform of the electoral law has not yet been ratified by some member states , further improvements are required , such as provisions for remote voting operations in defined or exceptional circumstances , as well as on the elections in the joint european constituency; ### 13. acknowledges that despite the fact that the agreed reform of the electoral law has not yet been ratified by some member states , further improvements are required , including provisions for remote voting operations in defined or exceptional circumstances , the insertion of provisions for the elections in a joint european constituency , provisions to ensure parental leaves for members , common election admission rules of candidates , common campaign and funding rules , as well as harmonised standards for passive and active voting rights across eu member states , including by decreasing to 16 the minimum age of voters in all member states;


### 14. takes note of the efforts by the commission and other institutions to tackle foreign interference during the electoral campaign; points out , nevertheless , that the financial and human resources needed to counter these attacks on european democracy , including at national level , are many times superior to the combined designated european resources; urges the commission and the member states to raise significantly the financing they make available for the fight against foreign interference; ### 14. takes note of the efforts by the commission and other institutions to tackle foreign interference during the electoral campaign , notably through the eeas' east stratcom task force and the new electoral authority; points out , nevertheless , that the financial and human resources needed to counter these attacks on european democracy , including at national level , are many times superior to the combined designated european resources; urges the commission and the member states to raise significantly the financing they make available for the fight against foreign interference;


### 15. urges the commission and the council to consider , in accordance with the work of parliament’s special committee on foreign interference and disinformation , the urgent creation of a european organisation dedicated to the fight against foreign interference; encourages the commission and the council to work much more closely with parliament on these matters , as the protection of our democratic institutions is a core competence of the european parliament; ### 15. urges the commission and the council to consider , in accordance with the work of parliament’s special committee on foreign interference and disinformation , the urgent creation of a strong european electoral authority dedicated to the fight against foreign interference; encourages the commission and the council to work much more closely with parliament on these matters , as the protection of our democratic institutions is a core competence of the european parliament;


### 16. recognises the important role of european political parties and foundations in fostering a european political debate; points out , however , that owing to restrictive measures at european and national levels , european political parties cannot fully participate in european election campaigns; stresses , moreover , that they are not allowed to campaign in referendums that concern european matters , including international trade agreements or the uk’s 2016 referendum on eu membership; ### 16. recognises the important role of european political parties , political movements and foundations in fostering a european political debate; points out , however , that owing to restrictive measures at european and national levels , european political parties cannot fully participate in european election campaigns; stresses , moreover , that they are not allowed to campaign in referendums that concern european matters such as international trade agreements or the uk’s 2016 referendum on eu membership;


### 17. proposes to amend regulation (eu , euratom) no 1141/2014 of the european parliament and of the council on the statute and funding of european political parties and european political foundations16 to allow european political parties and foundations to fully participate in the european political space while at the same time increasing the transparency of their funding , especially when funding comes from member parties outside the eu; ### 17. proposes to amend regulation (eu , euratom) no 1141/2014 of the european parliament and of the council on the statute and funding of european political parties and european political foundations to allow european political parties and foundations to fully participate in the european political space , to campaign and be able to receive campaign funds across borders and stand in european elections , to increase the transparency of their funding , especially when funding comes from member parties outside the eu and to prohibit donations from legal entities; stresses nonetheless that membership fees from parties from third countries should be allowed in view of fostering bonds with national parties from current and future candidate countries;


### 1. is resolutely determined in its endeavour to bring citizens closer to its decision-making process; ### 1. is resolutely determined in its endeavour to bring citizens closer to its decision-making process; stresses that article 10(3) teu recognises participatory democracy as one of the main democratic principles of the eu , thereby highlighting that decisions must be taken as close to citizens as possible; recalls that fully democratic and highly transparent decision-making at the european level is indispensable to increase citizens’ trust in the eu institutions;


### — having regard to the treaty on european union (teu) and the treaty on the functioning of the european union (tfeu) , ### — having regard to the treaty on european union (teu) and the treaty on the functioning of the european union (tfeu) , in particular , articles 1 , 9 , 10 , 11 and 16 of the teu and article 15 of the tfeu;


### — having regard to the charter of fundamental rights of the european union , ### — having regard to the charter of fundamental rights of the european union , in particular articles 41 and 42;


### a. whereas the union ‘shall observe the principle of the equality of its citizens , who shall receive equal attention from its institutions’ (article 9 of the teu); whereas ‘every citizen shall have the right to participate in the democratic life of the union’ , and whereas ‘decisions shall be taken as openly and as closely as possible to the citizen’ (article 10(3) of the teu , read in the light of the thirteenth recital of its preamble and its articles 1(2) and 9); ### a. whereas , under the treaties , the union ‘shall observe the principle of the equality of its citizens , who shall receive equal attention from its institutions’ (article 9 of the teu); whereas ‘every citizen shall have the right to participate in the democratic life of the union’ , and whereas ‘decisions shall be taken as openly and as closely as possible to the citizen’ (article 10(3) of the teu , read in the light of the thirteenth recital of its preamble and its articles 1(2) and 9);


### c. whereas the european parliament works with a high degree of transparency in its legislative procedure , including at the committee stage , making it possible for citizens , the media and stakeholders to clearly identify different positions within parliament and the origin of specific proposals , as well as to follow the adoption of final decisions; ### c. whereas the european parliament works with a degree of transparency in its legislative procedure , including at the committee stage , which makes it possible for citizens , the media and stakeholders to clearly identify different positions within parliament and the origin of specific proposals , as well as to follow the adoption of final decisions;


### d. whereas the ombudsman’s strategic inquiry oi/2/2017/te found that the council’s lack of transparency regarding public access to its legislative documents and its current practices in its decision-making process constitute maladministration; whereas on 16 may 2018 , following the council’s reluctance to implement her recommendations , the ombudsman submitted special report oi/2/2017/te on the transparency of the council legislative process to parliament; whereas in its resolution of 17 january 2019 on the ombudsman’s strategic inquiry , parliament endorsed the ombudsman’s recommendations; ### d. whereas the ombudsman’s strategic inquiry oi/2/2017/te found that the council’s lack of transparency regarding public access to its legislative documents and its current practices in its decision-making process , specifically during the preparatory stage at the council preparatory bodies , including its committees , working parties and the committee of permanent representatives (coreper) constitute maladministration; whereas on 16 may 2018 , following the council’s reluctance to implement her recommendations , the ombudsman submitted special report oi/2/2017/te on the transparency of the council legislative process to parliament; whereas in its resolution of 17 january 2019 on the ombudsman’s strategic inquiry , parliament endorsed the ombudsman’s recommendations; whereas the council’s absence of commitment in ensuring transparency reflects a lack of accountability in its role as eu co-legislator;


### 5. calls on the institutions to continue discussions on moving towards the establishment of a dedicated joint database on the state of play of legislative files (joint legislative database) as agreed in the iia on better law-making; ### 5. urges the institutions to establish a dedicated and user-friendly joint database on the state of play of legislative files (joint legislative database) as agreed in the iia on better law-making;


### 6. recognises the new code of conduct for the commission’s members which entered into force in february 2018 , and which increases transparency primarily in relation to the meetings held between the commissioners and interest representatives , as well as to the costs of the business travel of individual commissioners; ### 6. welcomes the new code of conduct for the commission’s members which entered into force in february 2018 , and which increases transparency primarily in relation to the meetings held between the commissioners and interest representatives , as well as to the costs of the business travel of individual commissioners; believes , however , that further reinforcements of the provisions of the code must be made; regrets that the council has still not adopted a code of conduct for its members and urges the council to adopt it without further delay; insists that the council must be as accountable and transparent as the other institutions;


### 7. recalls its revised rules of procedure according to which members are invited to adopt the systematic practice of only meeting interest representatives that have registered in the transparency register; also recalls that members are invited to publish online all scheduled meetings with interest representatives falling under the scope of the transparency register , while rapporteurs , shadow rapporteurs and committee chairs are obliged , for each report , to publish online all scheduled meetings with interest representatives falling under the scope of the transparency register; ### 7. recalls its revised rules of procedure according to which members are required to adopt the systematic practice of only meeting interest representatives that have registered in the transparency register; further recalls , that members are also required to publish online all scheduled meetings with interest representatives falling under the scope of the transparency register , while rapporteurs , shadow rapporteurs and committee chairs are obliged , for each report , to publish online all scheduled meetings with interest representatives falling under the scope of the transparency register;


### 8. reiterates its call on the council , including its preparatory bodies , to sign up to the transparency register as soon as possible; ### 8. reiterates its call on the council , including its preparatory bodies , to urgently sign up to the transparency register without further delay;


### 10. recalls that the right of public access to documents of the institutions is inextricably linked with the democratic nature of the institutions; ### 10. recalls that the right of public access to documents of the institutions is a fundamental right protected by the charter of fundamental rights and the treaties , and is inextricably linked with the democratic nature of the institutions; stresses that this right should be exercised as early as possible as it ensures democratic scrutiny of the work and activities of the institutions and that they comply with the rules enshrined in the treaties;


### 11. points out that transparency and full access to documents held by the institutions have to be the rule , in accordance with regulation (ec) no 1049/2001 , and that , as has already been stipulated by the precedents consistently set by the cjeu , exceptions to that rule have to be properly interpreted; ### 11. points out that transparency and full access to documents held by the institutions have to be the rule , in accordance with regulation (ec) no 1049/2001 , and that , as has already been stipulated by the precedents consistently set by the cjeu , exceptions to that rule have to be properly interpreted , taking into account the overriding public interest in disclosure and in the requirements of democracy , including closer involvement of citizens in the decision-making process , good governance , efficiency and accountability to citizens;


### 14. recalls that the revision of regulation (ec) no 1049/2001 has been blocked since 2012 , and takes note of the commission’s intention to withdraw this proposal; ### 14. recalls that the revision of regulation (ec) no 1049/2001 has been blocked since 2012 , and deplores the commission’s intention to withdraw this proposal;


### 17. fully endorses the european ombudsman’s recommendations to the council following the strategic inquiry , and urges the council to take all measures necessary to implement the ombudsman’s recommendations as quickly as possible in order to guarantee the transparency of legislative discussions in its preparatory bodies; ### 17. fully endorses the european ombudsman’s recommendations to the council following the strategic inquiry , namely: a) to systematically record the identity of member state governments when they express positions in council preparatory bodies , b) to develop clear and publicly available criteria for how it designates documents as ‘limite’ , in line with eu law , and c) to systematically review the ‘limite’ status of documents at an early stage , before the final adoption of a legislative act , including before informal negotiations in trilogues , at which point the council will have reached an initial position on the proposal; urges the council to take all measures necessary to implement the ombudsman’s recommendations as quickly as possible in order to guarantee the transparency of legislative discussions in its preparatory bodies;


### 18. takes note of the fact that parliament has seen a significant increase in applications requesting public access to the multi-column documents discussed in trilogue meetings following the judgment of the general court in the de capitani case5 , and notes with satisfaction that since the judgment , parliament has disclosed all the multi-column documents to which access was requested under regulation (ec) no 1049/2001; ### 18. takes note of the fact that parliament has seen a significant increase in applications requesting public access to the multi-column documents discussed in trilogue meetings following the judgment of the general court in the de capitani case5 , and notes that since the judgment , parliament has disclosed all the multi-column documents to which access was requested under regulation (ec) no 1049/2001; calls for a systematic , timely and pro-active publication of these multi-column documents in a user-friendly database accessible to the public;


### 22. calls on all the institutions to constantly explore and develop new methods and measures to achieve enhanced transparency; ### 22. calls on all the institutions , bodies , offices and agencies to constantly explore new methods and measures to achieve maximum transparency , and to further develop a more proactive approach on transparency by proactively disclosing documents in the most simple , user-friendly and accessible way;


### 2. calls on the council and the member states to continue reinforcing coherence between all instruments and initiatives within the framework of common security and defence policy (csdp) in order to achieve the required level of effectiveness in ensuring strategic autonomy , and of ambition in the progressive framing of a common union defence policy in line with the treaty on european union; ### 2. calls on the council and the member states to continue reinforcing coherence between all instruments and initiatives within the framework of common security and defence policy (csdp) in order to achieve the required level of effectiveness in ensuring sovereignty in decision-making and operational autonomy; recalls that in the progressive framing of a common union defence policy in line with the treaty on european union will lead to common defence , when the european council , acting unanimously , so decides; states that according to the council such decision has not been taken or is being prepared;


### 3. welcomes in this regard the political guidelines of the commission regarding defence policy , and in particular regarding the need for bold steps towards a genuine european defence union , and for an integrated and comprehensive approach to the eu’s security; hopes that the creation of a new commission directorate-general for defence industry and space will serve as a catalyst for enhanced coherence in the creation of defence capabilities; ### 3. welcomes in this regard the political guidelines of the commission regarding defence policy , and in particular regarding the need for bold steps towards a more effective common security and defence policy (csdp) and for an integrated and comprehensive approach to the eu’s security; notes that the creation of a new commission directorate-general for defence industry and space has the potential to serve as a catalyst for enhanced coherence in the creation of defence capabilities;


### 4. considers it necessary to step up the actual contribution of pesco projects to the achievement of the eu’s ambitions in the area of security and defence , by effectively ensuring that the participating member states strengthen their collaboration in significant and ambitious capability development , and that there is coherence between the eu and nato in terms of priorities; ### 4. requests to step up the actual contribution of pesco projects to the achievement of the eu’s ambitions in the area of security and defence , by effectively ensuring that the participating member states strengthen their collaboration in significant and ambitious capability development , pooling and sharing;


### 5. calls on the participating member states to continue making resources available for pesco projects , while ensuring real ownership of and commitment to pesco coordinating and pooling processes; ### 5. calls on the participating member states to make a proper amount of resources available for pesco projects , while ensuring real ownership of and commitment to pesco coordinating and pooling processes;


### 6. calls on the council to define strict conditions for the participation of third states in pesco projects , in accordance with article 9 of council decision (cfsp) 2017/2315; considers that any such participation should not deviate pesco from its fundamental objectives as an instrument of the eu csdp , while respecting the obligations under the north atlantic treaty; ### 6. calls on the council to define strict conditions for the participation of third states in pesco projects , in accordance with article 9 of council decision (cfsp) 2017/2315; considers that any such participation should not deviate pesco from its fundamental objectives as an instrument of the eu csdp;


### a. whereas according to article 42(2) of the teu , the common security and defence policy (csdp) includes the progressive framing of a common eu defence policy , which could lead to common defence being put in place; ### a. whereas according to article 42(2) of the teu , the common security and defence policy (csdp) includes the progressive framing of a common eu defence policy , when the european council , acting unanimously , so decides;


### d. whereas the three-fold level of ambition under the eu global strategy in the field of security and defence covers securing external borders , countering hybrid threats and fighting against terrorism; whereas no member state can protect itself alone , since security and defence threats faced by the eu , and which are targeted against its citizens and territory , are a joint threat and cannot be addressed by one single member state on its own; whereas an effective eu system for addressing burden-sharing would be advantageous for the eu’s overall level of security and defence; ### d. whereas the military level of ambition under the eu global strategy confirmed the military tasks as laid down in eu primary law (article 43(1) teu) in the field of security and defence , covering out-of-area operations such as joint disarmament operations , humanitarian and rescue tasks , military advice and assistance tasks , conflict prevention and peace-keeping tasks , tasks of combat forces in crisis management , including peace-making , post-conflict stabilisation and fighting against terrorism; whereas no member state can effectively contribute to international and regional peace , and in this sense indirectly protect itself alone , since security and defence threats , risks and challenges affecting international , regional and european security , are a joint threat and challenge and cannot be addressed by one single member state on its own; whereas an effective eu system for addressing burden-sharing as regards military csdp operations would be advantageous for the eu’s ability to become an effective security provider;


### d. whereas the three-fold level of ambition under the eu global strategy in the field of security and defence covers securing external borders , countering hybrid threats and fighting against terrorism; whereas no member state can protect itself alone , since security and defence threats faced by the eu , and which are targeted against its citizens and territory , are a joint threat and cannot be addressed by one single member state on its own; whereas an effective eu system for addressing burden-sharing would be advantageous for the eu’s overall level of security and defence; ### d. whereas the three-fold level of ambition under the eu global strategy in the field of security and defence covers securing external borders , countering hybrid threats and fighting against terrorism; whereas no member state can protect itself alone , since security and defence threats faced by the eu , and which are targeted against its citizens and territory , are a joint threat and cannot be addressed by one single member state on its own; whereas an effective eu system for addressing burden-sharing would be advantageous for the eu’s overall level of security and defence , whereas increasing efforts for cooperation on cyber defence , such as information sharing , training and operational support are needed in order to better counter hybrid threats;


### e. whereas the main actors of pesco are the participating member states (pms) , which provide the capabilities for implementing csdp (article 42(1) and article 42(3) teu) , and which deploy them in missions abroad where the council tasks them to do so (article 42 (1) (4) , and(5) , article 43 and article 44 teu) , that develop their defence capabilities within the framework of the european defence agency (article 42(3) and article 45 teu); ### e. whereas the main actors of pesco are the participating member states (pms) , which provide the capabilities for implementing csdp (article 42(1) and article 42(3) teu) , and which deploy them in missions abroad where the council tasks them to do so (article 42 (1) (4) , and(5) , article 43 and article 44 teu) , that develop their defence capabilities , inter alia , within the framework of the european defence agency (article 42(3) and article 45 teu);


### f. whereas pesco’s long-term vision is to achieve a coherent full-spectrum force package available to the member states; whereas pesco should enhance the eu’s capacity to act as an international security provider in order to protect eu citizens and maximise the effectiveness of defence spending; whereas the cost of non-europe in security and defence is estimated to be more than eur 100 billion per year; ### f. whereas pesco’s long-term vision is to achieve a coherent full-spectrum force package available to the member states for military csdp operations; whereas pesco should enhance the eu’s capacity to act as an international security provider in order to contribute effectively and credibly to international , regional and european security , also by preventing the import of insecurity and therefore indirectly protect eu citizens and , inter alia , maximise the effectiveness of defence spending; whereas the cost of non-europe in security and defence is estimated to be more than eur 100 billion per year;


### g. whereas the covid-19 pandemic has shown the consequences of the eu not having enough competence when it comes to health care; whereas , by the same analogy , it would make sense to establish an eu common defence strategy in order to be able to respond to an attack on the eu’s borders and territories; whereas pesco constitutes an important step towards achieving the objective of a common defence; ### g. whereas , it is long overdue to establish an eu common defence strategy in the form of an eu security and defence white book which outlines in which way the member states and the eu intent to operationalise the military tasks of article 43(1) teu including by developing concrete scenarios for military operations in order to be able to contribute effectively to international , regional and european security , peace and stability; whereas pesco constitutes an important step towards achieving the necessary military capacities for realising the objective of a common security and defence policy;


### g. whereas the covid-19 pandemic has shown the consequences of the eu not having enough competence when it comes to health care; whereas , by the same analogy , it would make sense to establish an eu common defence strategy in order to be able to respond to an attack on the eu’s borders and territories; whereas pesco constitutes an important step towards achieving the objective of a common defence; ### g. whereas the covid-19 pandemic has shown how challenging the geopolitical environmental is , as well as the consequences of the eu not having enough competence when it comes to health care; whereas , by the same analogy , it would make sense to establish an eu common defence strategy in order to be able to respond to an attack on the eu’s borders and territories; whereas pesco constitutes an important step towards achieving the objective of a common defence;


### h. whereas according to council decision 2017/2315 , establishing pesco enhanced defence capabilities of the member states will also benefit nato , while strengthening the european pillar within the alliance and responding to repeated calls for stronger transatlantic burden-sharing; ### h. whereas according to council decision 2017/2315 , establishing pesco enhanced defence capabilities of the member states will provide military csdp with the necessary capabilities to conduct military operations while at the same time reinforcing the eu’s ability to autonomously decide and act also in the domain of military crisis management;


### i. whereas pesco creates a binding framework between the pms , which committed themselves to jointly investing , planning , developing and operating defence capabilities within union framework in a permanent and structured manner by subscribing to 20 binding commitments in five areas set by the teu; whereas these commitments should constitute a move from mere defence cooperation towards the integration of member states’ defence forces; whereas despite these binding commitments , no effective compliance mechanism for pesco is in place; ### i. whereas pesco creates a binding framework between the pms , which committed themselves to jointly investing , planning , developing and operating defence capabilities within union framework in a permanent and structured manner by subscribing to 20 binding commitments in five areas set by the teu; whereas these commitments should constitute a move from mere defence cooperation towards deep , sustainable , reliable and permanent cooperation of member states’ defence forces; whereas despite these binding commitments , no effective compliance mechanism for pesco is in place;


### n. whereas major european defence projects such as the future air combat system (fcas) and the main ground combat system (mgcs) currently remain outside the scope of pesco; whereas their integration within the remit of pesco would provide for sufficient strategic focus; ### n. whereas major european defence projects such as the future air combat system (fcas) and the main ground combat system (mgcs) currently remain outside the scope of pesco;


### o. whereas it is crucial to fill the capability gaps identified in the capability development plan (cdp) , and by the coordinated annual defence on review (card); ### o. whereas it is crucial to fill the capability gaps identified in the capability development plan (cdp) , and by the coordinated annual defence on review (card) with the aim to increase europe’s strategic autonomy;


### o. whereas it is crucial to fill the capability gaps identified in the capability development plan (cdp) , and by the coordinated annual defence on review (card); ### o. whereas it is crucial to prioritize and fill the capability gaps identified in the capability development plan (cdp) , and by the coordinated annual defence on review (card);


### r. whereas the nato defence planning process (ndpp) drives defence national planning processes in most cases; ### r. whereas the nato defence planning process (ndpp) drives defence national planning processes in 21 eu nato member states;


### s. whereas interactions between member states’ national priorities , eu priorities and nato priorities should be synchronised at the earliest possible convenience; whereas pesco can be an effective tool in order to achieve eu and nato targets simultaneously; ### s. whereas interactions between member states’ national priorities , eu priorities and nato priorities should be synchronised at the earliest possible convenience; whereas , while recognising the different nature of the two organisations and their respective responsibilities , pesco can be an effective tool in order to achieve eu and nato targets simultaneously;


### s. whereas interactions between member states’ national priorities , eu priorities and nato priorities should be synchronised at the earliest possible convenience; whereas pesco can be an effective tool in order to achieve eu and nato targets simultaneously; ### s. whereas interactions between member states’ national priorities , eu priorities and nato priorities should be better synchronised at the earliest possible convenience; whereas pesco can be an effective tool in order to achieve eu capability targets;


### u. whereas currently , pesco projects are dependent on the 25 participating member states’ financial contributions; whereas it is expected that , as a result of the covid-19 pandemic , national defence budgets will suffer reductions; whereas paradoxically , several of the currently 47 pesco projects , if funded accordingly , could strengthen member states’ preparedness , should another massive public health crisis occur: military mobility – a flagship pesco project – , the european medical command and many other projects in areas related to logistics and transportation , health care , disaster relief and the fight against malicious cyber activities; whereas cutting funding for the strategic capabilities that the eu and its member states currently lack would also weaken their ability to jointly act against future pandemics; ### u. whereas currently , pesco projects are dependent on the 25 participating member states’ financial contributions; whereas it is expected that , as a result of the covid-19 pandemic , national defence budgets will suffer reductions; whereas paradoxically , several of the currently 47 pesco projects , if funded accordingly , could strengthen member states’ preparedness , should another massive public health crisis occur: military mobility – a flagship pesco project – , the european medical command and many other projects in areas related to logistics and transportation , health care , disaster relief and the fight against malicious cyber activities; whereas cutting funding for the strategic capabilities that the eu and its member states currently lack would also weaken their ability to jointly act against future pandemics and other unpredictable risks with major international impact;


### w. whereas the participation of third countries in individual pesco projects might be in the strategic interest of the european union , particularly in case of the united kingdom; ### w. whereas the participation of third countries in individual pesco projects might be in the strategic interest of the european union , providing added value to certain projects , contributing to strengthening pesco and the csdp and meeting more demanding commitments , particularly in case of the united kingdom;


### aa. whereas parliament should , jointly with the council , exercise legislative and budgetary functions , as well as functions of political control and consultation as laid down in the treaties; ### aa. whereas parliament should exercise functions of political control and consultation as laid down in the treaties regarding military csdp;


### maintain the eu’s budgetary ambition for the strengthening of defence capabilities , notably thought the sufficient financing of edf in the upcoming mff; ### deleted


### maintain the eu’s budgetary ambition for the strengthening of defence capabilities , notably thought the sufficient financing of edf in the upcoming mff; ### maintain the eu’s budgetary ambition for the strengthening of defence capabilities , notably thought throughout the sufficient financing of edf in the upcoming mff , with a special focus on projects related to military mobility and interoperability , which are crucial when it comes to an unexpected future conflict; ensure that pesco contributes to the creation of an effective schengen on military mobility , aimed to reduce procedures at borders and infrastructure burdens to a minimum; welcome , in this regard , the rail baltica project , vital for the integration of the baltic countries in the european rail network and make sure of its full effectiveness;


### ensure that pesco is effectively used as an instrument to reach eu defence integration as a common goal , in line with the ambition for greater eu strategic autonomy; ### ensure that pesco is effectively used as an instrument to reach deep , sustainable , efficient and permanent eu defence cooperation as a common goal , in line with the ambition for greater sovereignty in eu decision-making and operational action;


### ensure that pesco is treated as a union institutions sui generis , as is the case with the european external action service (eeas) , which would require amending the financial regulation8 in order to include pesco , with a specific section in the union budget; recognise that parliament , jointly with the council , exercises legislative and budgetary functions , as well as functions of political control and consultation as laid down in the treaties; ### ensure that pesco is well-financed in an efficient manner by contributing member states according to the provisions of the teu;


### incorporate directly into the pesco project cycle the link between pesco and edidp/edf; impose the documentation of each project , before selection on the budgetary side; ### deleted


### incorporate directly into the pesco project cycle the link between pesco and edidp/edf; impose the documentation of each project , before selection on the budgetary side; ### incorporate directly into the pesco project cycle the link between pesco and edidp/edf with the aim to contribute more effectively to the achievement of the union’s ambitions in the area of security and defence; impose the documentation of each project , before selection on the budgetary side;


### focus pesco efforts on projects with a strategic and integrative dimension , such as eufor croc , and link those to other pesco projects in order to create additional synergies and effects of scale; ### focus pesco efforts on projects with a strategic and integrative dimension , such as eufor croc , and link those to other pesco projects in order to create additional synergies and effects of scale aiming at systematically strengthening military csdp;


### ensure that future key land , sea , air and other platforms for the armed forces of the member states are brought under pesco or are at least closely connected to it; ### ensure that parts of key capabilities such as future key land , sea , air and other platforms for the armed forces of the member states are brought under pesco or are at least closely connected to it in order to increase the operational readiness of military csdp;


### consider , as part of the reform of the eu battlegroup system , to bring it under pesco in order to increase its operational capacity , modularity and agility; ### consider , as part of the reform of the eu battlegroup system , to bring it under pesco in order to increase its operational capacity , modularity and agility by establishing permanent multinational units dedicated to fulfil article 43 (1) teu military tasks;


### promote compliance with the 20 pesco commitments by establishing clearer definition of compliance benchmarks , and by ensuring that future project proposals must address a specific cdp priority; ensure that any reviews of project progress should be based on clear and transparent criteria; ensure that such criteria serve as benchmark for all member states participating in pesco projects; ### promote compliance with the 20 pesco commitments by establishing clearer definition of compliance benchmarks , and by ensuring that future project proposals must address a specific cdp priority; ensure that any reviews of project progress should be based on clear and transparent criteria; ensure that such criteria serve as benchmark for all member states participating in pesco projects; ensure that the pms further increase the quality and the granularity of the information provided in their national implementation plans , in which they outline how they intend to meet the 20 pesco commitments;


### consider giving cdp a more binding character; ### consider giving cdp a more binding character , by making sure pms continue their efforts to enhance interoperability and flexibility of their forces , while making progress in fulfilling the commitments related to bringing their defence systems more in line with each other , with a particular focus on strengthening collaborative capability development and strengthening the availability and deployability of forces , including for military csdp operations and missions;


### define an effective and strong project steering committee , reaffirm the central role of the pesco secretariat as a single point of contact for all projects and invite the secretariat to carry out regular situation points on the progress of projects for the benefit of all the stakeholders , including parliament , via information collected member state(s) in charge of project coordination; ### define an effective and strong project steering committee , reaffirm the central role of the pesco secretariat as a single point of contact for all projects and invite the secretariat to carry out regular situation points on the progress of projects for the benefit of all the stakeholders , including parliament , via information collected member state(s)in charge of project coordination , encourage pms to continue to engage in a more effective dialogue with the pesco secretariat regarding the review and update of their national implementation plans;


### 1. grants the secretary-general of the council discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the european council and of the council for the financial year 2018 / postpones its decision on granting the secretary-general of the council discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the european council and of the council for the financial year 2018; ### 1. postpones its decision on granting the secretary-general of the council discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the european council and of the council for the financial year 2018;


### 14. insists that the combined efforts on achieving an inter-institutional agreement on a mandatory transparency register for lobbyists is inevitable to enhance openness of union decision-making process and accountability of the union institutions; calls on the council to continue taking part in the discussions regarding the establishment of a common register together with parliament , which agreed to restart the negotiations on march 2020 , and the commission in order to make it de facto mandatory for lobbyists to register if they want meetings with union decision-makers; ### 14. insists that the combined efforts on achieving an inter-institutional agreement on a mandatory transparency register for lobbyists , accessible in a machine-readable format , is inevitable to enhance openness of union decision-making process and accountability of the union institutions; calls on the council to continue taking part in the discussions regarding the establishment of a common register together with parliament , which agreed to restart the negotiations on march 2020 , and the commission in order to make it de facto mandatory for lobbyists to register if they want meetings with union decision-makers; calls again on all member state presidency teams to lead by example by refusing meetings with unregistered lobbyists;


### 15. emphasises the importance of allowing citizens to follow the legislative process of the union easily; reminds the council to align its working methods with the standards of a parliamentary democracy , as required by the treaties; reminds the council to follow up systematically all the recommendations contained in european ombudsman’s decision in strategic inquiry oi/2/2017/te on the transparency of the council legislative process; recalls that parliament encouraged the european ombudsman to continue to follow up on her inquiry; ### 15. emphasises the importance of allowing citizens to follow the legislative process of the union easily; reminds the council to align its working methods with the standards of a parliamentary democracy , as required by the treaties; reminds the council to follow up systematically all the recommendations contained in european ombudsman’s decision in strategic inquiry oi/2/2017/te on the transparency of the council legislative process; recalls that parliament encouraged the european ombudsman to continue to follow up on her inquiry; is disappointed by the fact that the new president of the european council has yet to implement those recommendations;


### 15. notes that related to the proposal for a new interinstitutional agreement on a mandatory transparency register for interest representatives covering the parliament , the council and the commission two negotiating rounds took place in 2018 under the bulgarian presidency and one in 2019 under the romanian presidency; calls on the council to follow-up negotiations to reach a successful outcome which will finally include the council in the registry; ### 15. notes that related to the proposal for a new interinstitutional agreement on a mandatory transparency register , accessible in a machine-readable format , for interest representatives covering the parliament , the council and the commission two negotiating rounds took place in 2018 under the bulgarian presidency and one in 2019 under the romanian presidency; recalls the ombudsman’s decision of 18 june 2019 that the general secretariat of the council should keep a full record of any meetings held between interest representatives and the president of the european council or members of his cabinet and that this should be made public; calls on the council to follow-up negotiations to reach a successful outcome which will finally include the council in the registry;


### 16. welcomes the improvements on the council’s website , in particular related to transparency and access to documents; welcomes the clear chapters on legislative transparency , agendas and calendar of council meetings and minutes and voting lists; acknowledges that the council has been taking steps to foster a stronger culture of transparency. ### 16. calls on the council to step up its transparency efforts by , inter alia , publishing council legislative documents including minutes of working group meetings , trilogue and other milestone working documents in line with the european ombudsman’s recommendations; welcomes the improvements on the council’s website , in particular related to transparency and access to documents; welcomes the clear chapters on legislative transparency , agendas and calendar of council meetings and minutes and voting lists; acknowledges that the council has been taking steps to foster a stronger culture of transparency;


### 17. notes the intense media coverage and the particularly high level of media interest in the brexit negotiations; welcomes the continuous development of the council’s website and the intense work to increase its audience on all channels (increases of 9 % visits on the website , 13 % fans on facebook , 26 % followers on twitter and 92 % followers on instagram); notes the high amount of background briefings and press conferences; notes the newsroom platform which allows the press and media to view , download and embed the council’s video and photo output in high-resolution quality; ### 17. notes the intense media coverage and the particularly high level of media interest in the brexit negotiations; welcomes the continuous development of the council’s website and the intense work to increase its audience on all channels (increases of 9 % visits on the website , 13 % fans on facebook , 26 % followers on twitter and 92 % followers on instagram); notes the high amount of background briefings and press conferences; notes the newsroom platform which allows the press and media to view , download and embed the council’s video and photo output in high-resolution quality; encourages further the use of non-proprietary social-network platforms , having special regards to users data protection;


### 18. asks the council to strengthen its efforts to make the legislative process more traceable and reader friendly , to centre transparency around milestones in the legislative process and to normalise the publication of member states inputs (statements , proposals for amendments) into legislative debates; acknowledges the council’s efforts to improve transparency with ongoing changes to its website and the activities of its internal transparency team; encourages the council to introduce further measures in order to reach a successful transparency policy allowing the public to follow the union legislative process with greater ease; ### 18. asks the council to strengthen its efforts to make the legislative process more traceable and reader friendly , to centre transparency around milestones in the legislative process and to normalise the publication of member states inputs in a machine-readable format (statements , proposals for amendments) into legislative debates; acknowledges the council’s efforts to improve transparency with ongoing changes to its website and the activities of its internal transparency team; calls on the council to introduce further measures in order to reach a successful transparency policy allowing the public to follow the union legislative process with greater ease;


### 23. notes that during the course of almost twenty years parliament has developed the practice of granting discharge to all union institutions and bodies; notes that all union institutions and bodies accept to participate in parliament’s discharge procedure , with the only exception being the council; ### 23. notes that during the course of almost twenty years parliament has developed the practice of granting discharge to all union institutions and bodies; notes that all union institutions and bodies accept to participate in parliament’s discharge procedure , with the only exception being the council; regrets that the council refused to answer the questions submitted by the parliament's budgetary control committee on 12 november 2019;


### 1. highlights that in the current global security environment , an integral part of the eu’s strategic autonomy should be the independent capacity to guarantee the security of its own citizens; ### 1. highlights that in the current global security environment , an integral part of the eu’s common security and defence policy (csdp) should be the independent capacity to guarantee the security of its own citizens by activly promoting peace , stability , human rights and democracy in its neighbourhood and beyond and to promote its values;


### 2. highlights that the support of eu citizens is crucial to underpinning the political ambition of eu defence policy; underlines the fact that according to the latest public opinion surveys , three quarters of eu citizens are in favour of a common defence and security policy for the member states , a proportion that has remained above 70% since 2004; ### 2. highlights that the support of eu citizens is crucial to underpinning the political ambition of effective civilian and military csdp missions and operations; underlines the fact that according to the latest public opinion surveys , three quarters of eu citizens are in favour of more cooperation between member states on security and defence , thus supporting a common defence and security policy , a proportion that has remained above 70% since 2004;


### 41. welcomes the commission’s proposal of june 2017 to create a european defence fund (edf) , which would foster cooperation between member states and support the european defence industry; notes that this proposal is the first initiative for which community funds are to be used in direct support of defence projects; recognises that this is a major step forward for european defence , from both a political and an industrial perspective; notes that the edf could finance structural projects such as the future european aircraft or tank or a european anti-missile defence capability; notes that the 2019 work programme for the preparatory action will focus on electromagnetic spectrum dominance and future disruptive defence technologies , two key areas for maintaining europe’s technological independence in the long term; welcomes , also , the adoption by the commission in march 2019 of the first european defence industrial development programme (edidp) and the publication of nine calls for proposals for 2019 , including for the eurodrone , which is a key capability for europe’s strategic autonomy; points out that 12 further calls for proposals will follow in 2020 , covering priority areas in all domains (air , land , sea , cyber and space); notes the link between the procurement decisions taken today by the member states and the prospects for industrial and technological cooperation under the edf; ### 41. notes the commission’s proposal of june 2017 to create a european defence fund (edf) , which could foster cooperation between member states and support some stakeholders of the european defence industry; notes that this proposal is the first initiative for which community funds are to be used in direct support of defence projects and that its legal base remains weak; recognises that this is a paradigm shift as regards the eu budget which has so far mainly financed civilian programmes; notes that the edf could finance structural projects such as the future european aircraft or tank or a european anti-missile defence capability; notes that the 2019 work programme for the preparatory action will focus on electromagnetic spectrum dominance and future disruptive defence technologies , two key areas for potentially maintaining europe’s technological independence in the long term; notes , also , the adoption by the commission in march 2019 of the first european defence industrial development programme (edidp) and the publication of nine calls for proposals for 2019 , including for the eurodrone , which is considered a key capability for modern warfare; recalls the repeated calls of the european parliament for a common position by the council on how to use armed drones in line with international humanitarian law and international human rights law; points out that 12 further calls for proposals will follow in 2020 , covering priority areas in all domains (air , land , sea , cyber and space); notes the link between the procurement decisions taken today by the member states and the prospects for industrial and technological cooperation under the edf;


### (5) the electoral procedure related to municipal elections falls within the competences of the member states that organise them reflecting their specific traditions and in accordance with international and european standards. in line with international covenant on civil and political rights as well as the law of the european convention on human rights , member states should not only recognise and respect the right of union citizens to vote and to stand as a candidate but also ensure easy access to their electoral rights by removing as many obstacles to their participation in elections as possible. ### (5) the electoral procedure related to municipal elections falls within the competences of the member states that organise them reflecting their specific traditions and in accordance with international and european standards. in line with international covenant on civil and political rights as well as the law of the european convention on human rights , member states should not only recognise and respect the right of union citizens to vote and to stand as a candidate but also ensure full access to information and to their electoral rights by removing all obstacles to their participation in elections.


### (5) the electoral procedure related to municipal elections falls within the competences of the member states that organise them reflecting their specific traditions and in accordance with international and european standards. in line with international covenant on civil and political rights as well as the law of the european convention on human rights , member states should not only recognise and respect the right of union citizens to vote and to stand as a candidate but also ensure easy access to their electoral rights by removing as many obstacles to their participation in elections as possible. ### (5) the electoral procedure related to municipal elections falls within the competences of the member states that organise them reflecting their specific traditions and in accordance with international and european standards. in line with international covenant on civil and political rights , the un convention on the rights of persons with disabilities , as well as the law of the european convention on human rights , member states should not only recognise and respect the right of union citizens to vote and to stand as a candidate but also ensure full and easy access to their electoral rights by removing all obstacles to their participation in elections , as well as access to relevant information.


### (7) in addition , non-national union citizens should not be required to fulfil any special conditions in order to exercise the right to vote or stand in municipal elections unless , exceptionally , a different treatment of nationals and non-nationals is justified by circumstances specific to the latter distinguishing them from the former. ### deleted


### (8) in order to facilitate the exercise by union citizens of their right to vote and to stand as a candidate in their country of residence , such citizens should be entered on the electoral roll in sufficient time in advance of polling day. the formalities applicable to their registration should be as simple as possible. it should be sufficient for the union citizens concerned to produce a valid identity card and a formal declaration that include elements evidencing their entitlement to participate in the elections. once registered , non-national union citizens should remain on the electoral roll under the same conditions as union citizens who are nationals of the member state concerned , for as long as they satisfy the conditions for exercising the right to vote. additionally , union citizens should provide the competent authorities with contact information , enabling those authorities to keep them informed on a regular basis. ### (8) in order to facilitate the exercise by union citizens of their right to vote and to stand as a candidate in their country of residence , such citizens should be entered on the electoral roll in sufficient time in advance of polling day. they should have the possibility for automatic registration on the electoral roll , if they wish so , when they register as new residents with the competent authority. the formalities applicable to their registration should be as simple as possible. it should be sufficient for the union citizens concerned to produce a valid identity card and in duly justified cases a formal declaration that include elements evidencing their entitlement to participate in the elections. once registered , non-national union citizens should remain on the electoral roll under the same conditions as union citizens who are nationals of the member state concerned , for as long as they satisfy the conditions for exercising the right to vote. additionally , union citizens should provide the competent authorities with contact information , enabling those authorities to keep them informed on a regular basis.


### (16) the lack of adequate information , in the context of electoral procedures , affects citizens in the exercise of their electoral rights as part of their rights as union citizens. it also affects the capacity of competent authorities to exercise their rights and to deliver on their obligations. member states should be required to designate authorities with special responsibilities for providing appropriate information to union citizens on their rights under article 20(2) , point (b) , and article 22(1) tfeu and the national rules and procedures regarding participation in and the organization of municipal elections. in order to ensure the effectiveness of communications , information should be provided in clear and comprehensible terms. ### (16) the lack of adequate information , in the context of electoral procedures , affects citizens in the exercise of their electoral rights as part of their rights as union citizens. it also affects the capacity of competent authorities to exercise their rights and to deliver on their obligations. member states should be required to designate authorities with special responsibilities for providing appropriate information to union citizens on their rights under article 20(2) , point (b) , and article 22(1) tfeu and the national rules and procedures regarding participation in and the organization of municipal elections. in order to ensure the effectiveness of communications , information should be provided in clear and comprehensible terms , in due time and on a regular basis.


### (17) in order to improve the accessibility of electoral information , such information should be made available in at least one other official language of the union than that or those of the host member state , broadly understood by the largest possible number of union citizens residing on its territory. member states may use different official languages of the union in specific parts of their territory or their regions depending on the language understood by the largest group of union citizens residing therein. ### (17) in order to improve the accessibility of electoral information , such information should be made available in at least one other official language of the union than that or those of the host member state , broadly understood by the largest possible number of union citizens residing on its territory. member states should be encouraged to provide information also in the native or the preferred language of the non-national union citizen , indicated at the time of their registration. member states may use different official languages of the union in specific parts of their territory or their regions depending on the language understood by the largest group of union citizens residing therein.


### (23) data regarding the exercise of rights and the application of this directive can be useful in the identification of measures necessary to ensure the effective exercise of union citizens’ electoral rights. in order to improve the collection of data for municipal elections , it is necessary to introduce regular monitoring and reporting of implementation by member states , which should include , besides statistical data , information on the measures taken to support participation in elections of non-national union citizens. the commission should assess the application of the directive , including any changes in the electorate that have taken place since its entry into force and submit a report in this connection to the european parliament and to the council. ### (23) data regarding the exercise of rights and the application of this directive can be useful in the identification of measures necessary to ensure the effective exercise of union citizens’ electoral rights. in order to improve the collection and communication of data for municipal elections , it is necessary to introduce regular and harmonised monitoring and reporting of implementation by member states , which should include , besides statistical data , information on the measures taken to support participation in elections of non-national union citizens. the commission should assess the application of the directive , including any changes in the electorate that have taken place since its entry into force and submit a report in this connection to the european parliament and to the council.


### (26) the member states , by ratifying , and the union , by concluding25 , have committed themselves to ensure compliance with the united nations convention on the rights of persons with disabilities including on article 29 on participation in political and public life. in order to support inclusive and equal electoral participation for persons with disabilities , arrangements for union citizens residing in a member state of which they are not nationals to exercise the right to vote and to stand as a candidate there in municipal elections should have due regard to the needs of citizens with a disability and older citizens. ### (26) in order to increase inclusiveness and equal electoral participation for marginalized and vulnerable persons , especially people with disabilities , arrangements for union citizens residing in a member state of which they are not nationals to exercise the right to vote and to stand as a candidate in that member state in municipal elections should have due regard of the needs of these citizens. the member states , by ratifying , and the union , by concluding25 , have committed themselves to ensure compliance with the united nations convention on the rights of persons with disabilities including on article 29 on participation in political and public life.


### 3. member states where voting is not compulsory may provide for the automatic registration of voters pursuant to article 3 on the electoral roll. ### 3. both member states where voting is compulsory and member states where voting is not compulsory may provide for the automatic registration of voters pursuant to article 3 on the electoral roll , based on a free choice of the non-national union citizen.


### 1. member states shall take the necessary measures to enable a voter pursuant to article 3 to be entered on the electoral roll sufficiently in advance of polling day. ### 1. member states shall take the necessary measures to enable a voter pursuant to article 3 to be entered on the electoral roll sufficiently in advance of polling day. member states shall propose automatic registration on the electoral roll when a non-national union citizen registers as new resident with the competent authority , based on a free choice.


### member states that provide for the possibility for nationals to vote by means of advance voting , postal voting , and electronic and internet voting in municipal elections shall ensure that such means of voting are also available under the same conditions to voters pursuant to article 3. ### member states that provide for the possibility for nationals to vote by means of advance voting , postal voting , and electronic and internet voting in municipal elections shall ensure that such means of voting are also available under the same conditions to voters pursuant to article 3. these voters shall also have the possibility of choosing or changing the means of voting under the same conditions as the nationals of the member state of residence.


### 1. the member state of residence shall inform the concerned persons in good time and in clear and plain language of the decision taken on their application for entry on the electoral roll or of the decision concerning the admissibility of their application to stand as a candidate. ### 1. the member state of residence shall inform the concerned persons in due time and in clear and plain language , in their mother tongue or preferred language , of the decision taken on their application for entry on the electoral roll or of the decision concerning the admissibility of their application to stand as a candidate.


### 2. should union citizens not be entered on the electoral roll or have their application form entry refused or have their application to stand as a candidate rejected , the person concerned shall be entitled to legal remedies on similar terms as the laws of the member state of residence prescribe for voters and persons entitled to stand as candidates who are its nationals. ### 2. should union citizens not be entered on the electoral roll or have their application form entry refused or have their application to stand as a candidate rejected , the person concerned shall be entitled to legal remedies on similar terms as the laws of the member state of residence prescribe for voters and persons entitled to stand as candidates who are its nationals. the persons concerned shall be informed in their mother tongue or preferred language.


### 2. the member states shall ensure that the designated authority pursuant to paragraph 1 , shall directly and individually communicate to voters and persons entitled to stand as candidates pursuant to article 3 , the following information: ### 2. the member states shall ensure that the designated authority pursuant to paragraph 1 , shall directly and individually communicate to voters and persons entitled to stand as candidates pursuant to article 3 , the following information , periodically and sufficiently in advance of the municipal election


### 4. member states shall ensure that information on conditions and detailed rules for registration as a voter or candidate in municipal elections and information referred to in paragraph 2 is made accessible to persons with disabilities and older persons by using appropriate means , modes and formats of communication. ### 4. member states shall ensure that information on conditions and detailed rules for registration as a voter or candidate in municipal elections and information referred to in paragraph 2 is made accessible to marginalised groups , such as persons with disabilities and older persons by applying the accessibility requirements laid down in annex i of directive (eu) 2019/8821a and by using appropriate means , modes and formats of communication , such as braille , large print , audio-based information , tactile stencils , easy to read information and sign language.


### 1. where , in a given member state , the proportion of union citizens of voting age who reside in it but are not nationals of it exceeds 20% of the total number of national and non-national union citizens residing there who are of voting age , that member state may , by way of derogation from this directive: ### deleted


### 2. the kingdom of belgium may , by way of derogation from the provisions of this directive , apply the provisions of paragraph 1 point (a) to a limited number of local government units , the list of which it shall communicate at least one year before the local government unit elections for which it intends to invoke the derogation. ### deleted


### 4. every six years after the entry into force of this directive , the commission shall submit to the european parliament and to the council a report in which it shall check whether the grant to the member states concerned of a derogation pursuant to article 22 (1) tfeu is still warranted and shall propose that any necessary adjustments be made. member states which invoke derogations under paragraphs 1 and 2 shall furnish the commission with all the necessary background information. ### deleted


### 3.6. if the ombudsman considers it appropriate to do so , the ombudsman may take steps to ensure that a complaint is dealt with as a matter of priority , taking into account strategic objectives or the particular nature of a complaint , including in areas such as whistleblowing and harassment. ### 3.6. if the ombudsman considers it appropriate to do so , the ombudsman may take steps to ensure that a complaint is dealt with as a matter of priority , taking into account strategic objectives or the particular nature of a complaint , including in areas such as whistleblowing and harassment , in accordance with article 2 and article 3(3) of the statute.


### a. whereas article 2 of the treaty on european union (teu) and the values upon which the union is founded should be the key reference for the content and conduct of eu foreign affairs; ### a. whereas articles 2 and 21 of the treaty on european union (teu) and the values , norms , and principles upon which the union is founded should be the key reference for the content and conduct of eu foreign affairs;


### d. whereas issues that are currently decided by unanimity should progressively be decided more often by qualified majority as a general rule under the cfsp; ### d. whereas issues that are currently decided by unanimity should progressively be decided more often by qualified majority under the cfsp , especially in priority areas such as human rights and sanctions;


### 1. considers that article 21(2) teu should be modified to include the concepts of ‘strategic sovereignty’ and ‘strategic autonomy’ in the list of objectives of the cfsp; ### 1. believes that the eu will become an effective diplomatic and security actor based on strong action and will increase its strategic sovereignty only via concrete measures , policies , budgets and commitments;


### 2. urges the member states to make use of article 31(2) tue , which allows the council to take certain decisions by qualified majority in cfsp matters; calls on the member states to make full use of the passerelle clause contained in article 31(3) teu; ### 2. urges the member states to make use of article 31(2) tue , which allows the council to take certain decisions by qualified majority in cfsp matters; calls on the member states to make full use of the passerelle clause contained in article 31(3) teu , especially in priority areas;


### 5. calls for the development of more integrated cooperation in the field of foreign and security policy with external alliances such as the north atlantic treaty organization and external like-minded countries , in particular the us , the uk and canada. ### 5. calls for the development of more integrated cooperation in the field of foreign and security policy with external alliances such as the north atlantic treaty organization and partners in the euro-atlantic area , the indo-pacific and the global south.


### b. whereas a particular focus should be placed on the protection of the eu’s external borders; ### b. whereas a particular focus should be placed on european security , the safety and security of eu citizens , and the security and stability of partners and allies;


### b. whereas the participation of women in peacekeeping and military operations improves outcomes2 ; ### b. whereas gender equality offers a path to sustainable peace and conflict prevention and the participation of women as agents of change in peace and security process is linked to greater economic prosperity , fewer human rights violations and the advancement of global security , democracy and sustainable peace; whereas the participation of women in peacekeeping and military operations plays a significant role in determining its success; 2


### c. whereas cooperation should be envisaged with the uk and possibly with the european political community , including on security and defence matters; ### c. whereas cooperation should be envisaged with the uk , including on security and defence matters;


### d. whereas the eu joint armed forces should be used only for self-defence purposes; ### d. whereas there is the urgent need to establish permanent multinational eu armed units which should be used for purposes as foreseen by the treaty;


### 1. stresses that the russian invasion of ukraine underlines the unequivocal need for security and defence measures to be gender-responsive; ### 1. stresses that the russian invasion of ukraine and the taliban takeover of afghanistan are examples that underline the unequivocal need for security and defence measures to be gender-responsive and for gender equality and women’s rights to be put as core element of eu external policy;


### 2. urges the member states to make use of article 31(2) of the treaty on european union (teu) , which allows the council to take certain decisions by qualified majority in common foreign and security policy (cfsp) matters; calls on the member states to make full use of the passerelle clause contained in article 31(3) teu; ### 2. urges the member states to make use of article 31(2) of the treaty on european union (teu) , which allows the council to take certain decisions by qualified majority in common foreign and security policy (cfsp) matters; calls on the member states to make full use of the passerelle clause contained in article 31(3) teu , especially in priority areas;


### 2. recalls that gender equality is a fundamental value and key objective of the eu , and calls for accelerated implementation of un security council resolution 1325 on women , peace and security; ### 2. recalls that gender equality is a fundamental value and key objective of the eu , and calls for accelerated implementation of un security council resolution 1325 on women , peace and security; stresses that translating the policy commitment of eu strategic approach to wps and the eu action plan on wps into action remains a challenge; regrets the lack of sufficient and dedicated budget to implement the actions plans and that many eu staff members have not integrated wps as part of their work;


### 3. considers that the operational capabilities necessary to ensure the effectiveness of the mutual assistance clause under article 42(7) teu should be strengthened swiftly; underlines that a treaty modification could define terrorist attacks , hybrid attacks , disinformation campaigns and economic coercion by third countries as elements that would trigger article 42(7) teu; calls for a clarification of the respective scope of application and interlinkage of article 42(7) teu and article 5 of the north atlantic treaty; ### 3. considers that the operational capabilities necessary to ensure the effectiveness of military tasks as foreseen in the treaty should be strengthened swiftly; considers it necessary to urgently develop a solidarity policy strategy and operational implementation measures as regards the mutual defence clause stipulated in article 42(7) teu and to include hybrid threats , disinformation campaigns and economic coercion by third countries in that strategy;


### 3. calls on the european external action service (eeas) and the member states to ensure effective gender mainstreaming across all common security and defence policy (csdp) missions; calls specifically for the next csdp compact to set targets for gender balance in the personnel , especially in leadership positions as there are only three female heads of civilian missions and no female commanders of military missions; ### 3. calls on the high representative /vice president , the european external action service (eeas) and the member states to elaborate a gender strategy and ensure effective gender mainstreaming and gender analysis across all common security and defence policy (csdp)missions; calls specifically for the next csdp compact to strengthen their commitment 16 setting clear , ambitious and measurable targets to ensure dedicated gender advisors , increased representation of women among international experts at all levels of the mission and guarantee diversity and gender balance in the personnel , especially in leadership positions as there are only three female heads of civilian missions and no female commanders of military missions;


### 6. reiterates the need for parliament to play a more prominent role in the definition , democratic scrutiny , supervision and evaluation of the csdp; calls , in that regard , on the vp/hr to give full effect to parliament’s right of information under article 36 teu; ### 6. reiterates the need for parliament to play a more prominent role in the definition , democratic scrutiny , supervision and evaluation of the csdp; calls , in that regard , on the vp/hr to give full effect to parliament’s right of information under article 36 teu; stresses the need to introduce a role for parliament when it comes to the decision of sending military and civilian security missions abroad; believes it would be appropriate to have a plenary debate before the relevant council decision and to adopt a plenary resolution that would politically authorise that operation including its objectives , means and duration;


### 6. calls for ring-fencing of funding for gender-related actions within the csdp. ### 6. calls on the commission to step up its efforts to implement a structured gender-budgeting approach to accurately track all related spending , including in the area of security and defence , and to organise ex-ante and ex-post gender impact assessments of the different programmes financed by the eu and to report back to the european parliament; calls for ring-fencing of funding for gender-related actions within the csdp.


### a. whereas women are disproportionately affected by conflict , with particular regard to sexual violence , displacement and trafficking in human beings1 ; ### a. whereas women are disproportionately affected by conflict , with particular regard to sexual violence , displacement and trafficking in human beings1 and by the long-term social and economic impacts of crises; whereas current conflicts are amplifying gender inequality , poverty , climate disruptions , and other forms of inequality;


### 13. expresses deep concern about developments in the sahel region and the recent coups d’état in the region; condemns the increasing presence of the kremlin-backed wagner group in the sahel; firmly believes that the latter’s involvement in west africa runs counter to the objective of bringing peace , security and stability to the region; acknowledges that the various international missions have not yet achieved their primary goal of lasting peace in the region and that a reflection process on the mandates and roles of international missions and policies is therefore needed; expresses similar concern over the increased presence and activity of islamist terrorist groups , in particular al-qaeda , daesh and al-shabaab in the middle east and africa; ### 13. expresses deep concern about developments in the sahel region and the recent coups d’état in the region; condemns the increasing presence of the kremlin-backed wagner group in the sahel; firmly believes that the latter’s involvement in west africa runs counter to the objective of bringing peace , security and stability to the region; acknowledges that the various international missions have not yet achieved their primary goal of lasting peace in the region and that a reflection process on the mandates and roles of international missions and policies is therefore needed; believes that any international security support in the region must prioritise improving the protection of civilians , alleviating conflict dynamics , and promoting good governance of the security sector; endorses the civilian and political surge agreed at the g5 sahel 2021 n’djamena summit in light of the need to address root causes of insecurity in the sahel and the limitations of a security-first approach; recognises the contribution of climate change as a threat multiplier in the sahel and the need for conflict-sensitive action at the climate-security nexus; calls for more joined-up action and policy coherence between different eu and partner interventions in the sahel; expresses similar concern over the increased presence and activity of islamist terrorist groups , in particular al-qaeda , daesh and al-shabaab in the middle east and africa;


### 2. the sub-group on euci sharing and exchange of classified information shall be composed of representatives from the commission , the council and the european external action service and shall work by consensus. ### 2. the sub-group on euci sharing and exchange of classified information shall be composed of representatives from the commission , the european parliament , the council and the european external action service and shall work by consensus. the sub-group shall ensure synergy with the access to documents regulation and make sure that classification doesn't in itself prevent disclosure.


### (12) the principle of information security risk management should be at the core of the policy to be developed in the field by each union institution and body. while the minimum requirements laid down in this regulation must be met , each union institution and body should adopt specific security measures for protecting information in accordance with the results of an internal risk assessment. in the same way , the technical means to protect the information should be adapted to the specific situation of each institution and body. ### (12) the principle of information security risk management should be at the core of the policy to be developed in the field by each union institution and body. while the minimum requirements laid down in this regulation must be met , each union institution and body should adopt specific security measures for protecting information in accordance with the results of an internal risk assessment. in the same way , the technical means to protect the information should be adapted to the specific situation of each institution and body. however , the specific security measures should not constitute an impediment for the activity of other institutions and legal access to information , as for example unduly limiting the acces of the members of european parliament to the information produced or held by the european commission.


### 2. the coordination group shall adopt guidance documents on euci creation and classification. ### 2. the coordination group shall adopt guidance documents on euci creation and classification , implementing the principle of minimisation of the use of classification and limiting in time the duration of such classification;


### 1. notes that the geopolitical impact of the covid-19 pandemic and a quickly deteriorating security environment are posing unprecedented challenges to the union’s common foreign and security policy; emphasises that , in the face of these challenges , the union needs to stay resilient and improve the speed of its responses to the fast-changing global environment; ### 1. notes a deteriorating security environment is posing unprecedented challenges to the union’s common foreign and security policy; emphasises that , in the face of these challenges , the union needs to stay resilient and improve the speed of its responses to the fast-changing global environment;


### 3. calls for increased efforts to fight foreign disinformation and information manipulation , which negatively influence the union’s ability to implement effectively its internal and foreign policies; ### 3. calls for increased efforts to fight foreign disinformation , third party interference , and information manipulation , which negatively influence the union’s ability to cope with new challenges , and implement effectively its internal and foreign policies;


### 5. offers other eu institutions its active participation in activities that aim to counteract the global backsliding of democracy , including through election observation and parliamentary diplomacy. ### 5. offers other eu institutions its active participation in activities that aim to counteract the global backsliding of democracy , including through election observation and parliamentary diplomacy , with parliament keeping a prominent role.