### (6) the repowereu chapter should include new reforms and investments contributing to the repowereu aims. furthermore , that chapter should contain an outline of other measures , financed from sources other than the recovery and resilience facility , contributing to the energy-related objectives outlined in recital (3). the outline should cover measures whose implementation should take place between 1 february 2022 to 31 december 2026 , the period during which the objectives set by this regulation are to be achieved. as regards natural gas infrastructure , the investments and reforms of the repowereu chapters to diversify supply away from russia should build on the needs currently identified through the assessment conducted and agreed by the european network of transmission system operators for gas (entsog) , established in the spirit of solidarity as regards security of supply and take into account the reinforced preparedness measures taken to adapt to new geopolitical threats. finally , the repowereu chapters should provide an explanation and a quantification of the effects of the combination of the reforms and investments financed by the recovery and resilience facility and the other measures financed by other sources than the recovery and resilience facility. ### (6) the repowereu chapter should include new reforms and investments contributing to the repowereu aims. new measures should not lower the level of ambition of the original plan. furthermore , that chapter should contain an outline of other measures , financed from sources other than the recovery and resilience facility , contributing to the energy-related objectives outlined in recital (3). the outline should cover measures whose implementation should take place between 1 february 2022 to 31 december 2026 , the period during which the objectives set by this regulation are to be achieved. as regards natural gas infrastructure , the investments and reforms of the repowereu chapters to diversify supply away from russia should build on the needs to be identified through an open and robust consultation process involving all relevant stakeholders and prioritising green and energy efficient alternatives to building new gas infrastructure. finally , the repowereu chapters should provide an explanation and a quantification of the effects of the combination of the reforms and investments financed by the recovery and resilience facility and the other measures financed by other sources than the recovery and resilience facility.


### (7) an appropriate assessment criterion should be added to serve as a basis for the commission to assess reforms and investments included in the repowereu chapter sand to ensure that reforms and investments are fit for achieving the specific repowereu-related objectives. an a rating should be required under this new assessment criterion for the relevant recovery and resilience plan to be positively assessed by the commission. ### (7) an appropriate assessment criterion should be added to serve as a basis for the commission to assess reforms and investments included in the repowereu chapter sand to ensure that reforms and investments are fit for achieving the specific repowereu-related objectives which are also in line with the european green deal objectives. an a rating should be required under this new assessment criterion for the relevant recovery and resilience plan to be positively assessed by the commission.


### (8) investments in infrastructure and technologies alone are not sufficient to ensure a reduction of dependency from fossil fuels. resources should be dedicated to the reskilling and upskilling of people , to further equip the workforce with green skills. this is in line with the objective of the european social fund plus , which aims at supporting member states in achieving a skilled and resilient workforce ready for the future world of work. in light of this , resources transferred from the european social fund plus should help support measures for the reskilling and upskilling of the workforce. the commission will assess whether the measures included in the repowereu chapters significantly contribute to supporting a requalification of the workforce towards green skills. ### (8) investments in infrastructure and technologies alone are not sufficient to ensure a complete phasing out of fossil fuels. resources should be dedicated to the reskilling and upskilling of people , to further equip the workforce with green and digital skills. this is in line with the objective of the european social fund plus , which aims at supporting member states in achieving a skilled and resilient workforce ready for the future world of work. the commission will assess whether the measures included in the repowereu chapters significantly contribute to supporting a requalification of the workforce towards green and digital skills , and are in line with the article 9. of the common provisions regulation 2021 - 2027.


### (10) the recovery and resilience plan , including the repowereu chapter , should contribute to effectively addressing all or a significant subset of the challenges identified in the relevant country-specific recommendations , including the country-specific recommendations to be adopted under the 2022 semester cycle which refer inter alia to the energy challenges that member states are facing. ### (10) the recovery and resilience plan , including the repowereu chapter , should contribute to effectively addressing all or a significant subset of the challenges identified in the relevant country-specific recommendations , including the country-specific recommendations adopted under the 2022 semester cycle , in particular those related to the energy challenges that member states are facing.


### (12) pursuant to article 18(4) point (q) of regulation (eu) 2021/241 , the member states should also provide a summary of the consultation process of local and regional authorities and other relevant stakeholders , including , as relevant , from the agricultural sector , for reforms and investments included in the repowereu chapter. such summaries should explain the outcome of those consultations and outline how the input received was reflected in repowereu chapters. ### (12) pursuant to article 18(4) point (q) of regulation (eu) 2021/241 , the member states should also provide a summary of the mandatory consultation process of local and regional authorities , civil society organisations , social partners and stakeholders relevant to reaching the repowereu objectives , including , as relevant , from the agricultural sector , for reforms and investments included in the repowereu chapter , in line with the european code of conduct on partnership. such summaries should explain the outcome of those consultations and outline how the input received was reflected in repowereu chapters.


### (12) pursuant to article 18(4) point (q) of regulation (eu) 2021/241 , the member states should also provide a summary of the consultation process of local and regional authorities and other relevant stakeholders , including , as relevant , from the agricultural sector , for reforms and investments included in the repowereu chapter. such summaries should explain the outcome of those consultations and outline how the input received was reflected in repowereu chapters. ### (12) pursuant to article 18(4) point (q) of regulation (eu) 2021/241 , the member states should also provide a detailed report of a robust and inclusive consultation process of local and regional authorities and other relevant stakeholders , including , as relevant , from the agricultural sector , for reforms and investments included in the repowereu chapter. such detailed report should explain the outcome of these consultations and outline how the input received during consultations was reflected in repowereu chapters and how sustainable alternatives to building new fossil fuel infrastructure were prioritised.


### (12) pursuant to article 18(4) point (q) of regulation (eu) 2021/241 , the member states should also provide a summary of the consultation process of local and regional authorities and other relevant stakeholders , including , as relevant , from the agricultural sector , for reforms and investments included in the repowereu chapter. such summaries should explain the outcome of those consultations and outline how the input received was reflected in repowereu chapters. ### (12) pursuant to article 18(4) point (q) of regulation (eu) 2021/241 , the member states should also provide a detailed report of the mandatory consultation process conducted in line with eu standards on public participation and in particular the code of conduct on partnership of local and regional authorities , civil society organisations , social partners and other relevant stakeholders , including , as relevant , from the agricultural sector , for reforms and investments included in the repowereu chapter. such reports should explain the outcome of those consultations and outline how the input received was reflected in repowereu chapters referring explicitly to the input not reflected , the precise reasons for its exclusion and in particular why alternative measures proposed by stakeholders that do not require new infrastructure investments were not taken on board.


### (12) pursuant to article 18(4) point (q) of regulation (eu) 2021/241 , the member states should also provide a summary of the consultation process of local and regional authorities and other relevant stakeholders , including , as relevant , from the agricultural sector , for reforms and investments included in the repowereu chapter. such summaries should explain the outcome of those consultations and outline how the input received was reflected in repowereu chapters. ### (12) pursuant to article 18(4) point (q) of regulation (eu) 2021/241 , the member states should also provide a detailed report of a robust and inclusive consultation process of local and regional authorities and other relevant stakeholders , including , as relevant , from the agricultural sector , for reforms and investments included in the repowereu chapter. such detailed reports should explain the outcome of those consultations and outline how the input received was reflected in repowereu chapters and how sustainable alternatives to building new fossil fuel infrastructure were prioritised.


### (13) the application of the ‘do no significant harm’ principle is essential to ensure that the investments and reforms undertaken as part of the recovery from the pandemic are implemented in a sustainable manner. it should continue to apply to the reforms and investments supported by the facility , with one targeted exemption to safeguard the eu’ immediate energy security concerns. considering the objective of diversifying energy supplies away from russian suppliers , the reforms and investments set out in those repowereu chapters which aim to improve energy infrastructure and facilities to meet immediate security of supply needs for oil and gas should not be required to comply with the principle of ‘do no significant harm’ and should therefore be exempted from such assessment. ### (13) the application of the ‘do no significant harm’ principle is essential to ensure that the investments and reforms undertaken as part of the recovery from the pandemic are implemented in a sustainable manner. it should continue to apply to the reforms and investments supported by the facility.


### (13) the application of the ‘do no significant harm’ principle is essential to ensure that the investments and reforms undertaken as part of the recovery from the pandemic are implemented in a sustainable manner. it should continue to apply to the reforms and investments supported by the facility , with one targeted exemption to safeguard the eu’ immediate energy security concerns. considering the objective of diversifying energy supplies away from russian suppliers , the reforms and investments set out in those repowereu chapters which aim to improve energy infrastructure and facilities to meet immediate security of supply needs for oil and gas should not be required to comply with the principle of ‘do no significant harm’ and should therefore be exempted from such assessment. ### (13) the application of the ‘do no significant harm’ principle is essential to ensure that the investments and reforms undertaken as part of the recovery from the pandemic are implemented in a sustainable manner including those identified in repowereu chapters.


### (13) the application of the ‘do no significant harm’ principle is essential to ensure that the investments and reforms undertaken as part of the recovery from the pandemic are implemented in a sustainable manner. it should continue to apply to the reforms and investments supported by the facility , with one targeted exemption to safeguard the eu’ immediate energy security concerns. considering the objective of diversifying energy supplies away from russian suppliers , the reforms and investments set out in those repowereu chapters which aim to improve energy infrastructure and facilities to meet immediate security of supply needs for oil and gas should not be required to comply with the principle of ‘do no significant harm’ and should therefore be exempted from such assessment. ### (13) the application of the ‘do no significant harm’ principle is essential to ensure that the investments and reforms undertaken as part of the recovery from the pandemic are implemented in a sustainable manner , including those identified in repowereu chapters.


### (16) while extending the current intake rate of allowances to the market stability reserve is needed to prevent in long term a significant increase of the surplus of allowances in the greenhouse gas emission allowance trading within the union , the current economical and geopolitical situation requires the union to mobilise available resources to rapidly diversify union’s energy supply and reduce dependence on fossil fuels before 2030. in this context , decision (eu) 2015/1814 of the european parliament and of the council4 and directive 2003/87/ec of the european parliament and of the council5 should be amended to extend the doubling of the 24% intake rate of the market stability reserve until 2030 , while allowing for an exceptional release and monetisation of a portion of allowances from the market stability reserve and directing revenues towards reforms and investments contributing to repowereu objectives , in the recovery and resilience facility framework. ### (16) while extending the current intake rate of allowances to the market stability reserve is needed to prevent in long term a significant increase of the surplus of allowances in the greenhouse gas emission allowance trading within the union , the current economical and geopolitical situation requires the union to mobilise available resources to rapidly diversify union’s energy supply and cut dependence on fossil fuels before 2030. in this context , decision (eu) 2015/1814 of the european parliament and of the council4 and directive 2003/87/ec of the european parliament and of the council5 should be amended to extend the doubling of the 24% intake rate of the market stability reserve until 2030 , while allowing for an exceptional release and monetisation of a portion of allowances from the market stability reserve and directing revenues towards reforms and investments contributing to repowereu objectives , in the recovery and resilience facility framework.


### (16) while extending the current intake rate of allowances to the market stability reserve is needed to prevent in long term a significant increase of the surplus of allowances in the greenhouse gas emission allowance trading within the union , the current economical and geopolitical situation requires the union to mobilise available resources to rapidly diversify union’s energy supply and reduce dependence on fossil fuels before 2030. in this context , decision (eu) 2015/1814 of the european parliament and of the council4 and directive 2003/87/ec of the european parliament and of the council5 should be amended to extend the doubling of the 24% intake rate of the market stability reserve until 2030 , while allowing for an exceptional release and monetisation of a portion of allowances from the market stability reserve and directing revenues towards reforms and investments contributing to repowereu objectives , in the recovery and resilience facility framework. ### (16) the strengthening of the eu emissions trading system (ets) , in particular of its market stability reserve , is needed to provide a stable and long-term signal to the market of the firm commitment of the union to rapidly and irreversibly reduce its greenhouse gas emissions and to phase out the use of fossil fuels in its economy , in line with the eu climate law. the current economical and geopolitical situation reinforced that urgent need. doing so requires the union to mobilise available resources to rapidly reduce the union’s dependence on fossil fuels before 2030 , in particular on russian oil and gas. in this context , decision (eu) 2015/1814 of the european parliament and of the council and directive 2003/87/ec of the european parliament and of the council should be amended to extend the doubling of the 24% intake rate of the market stability reserve until 2030.


### (17) regulation (eu) 2021/1060 of the european parliament and of the council6 should be amended to provide for the possibility to transfer up to 7.5% of resources of shared management programmes governed by that regulation to the facility for the achievement of the repowereu objectives , in addition to the existing transfer possibility of up to 5%. such a possibility is justified by the need to cover repowereu objectives , providing member states with additional flexibility to address those urgent needs. furthermore , the facility allows for a fast disbursement of funds , making it particularly well suited for financing of urgent energy-related measures. such transfers should be justified by a higher financial need linked to additional reforms and investments included in the repowereu chapter. ### deleted


### (18) regulation (eu) 2021/2115 of the european parliament and of the council7 should also be amended to allow for a possibility to deliver up to 12.5% of the european agricultural fund for rural development through the recovery and resilience facility. such method of delivery is justified by complementarity and synergies between these instruments with regard to the objectives of reducing the use of synthetic fertilisers , or increasing production of sustainable biomethane or renewable energy , in accordance with the objectives of the common agricultural policy set out in article 39 of tfeu. the delivery via the recovery and resilience facility should accelerate the disbursement of funds to beneficiaries from the agricultural sector which is vital considering the urgency of the energy-related objectives. ### deleted


### (19) disbursements under repowereu shall be made following the rules of the recovery and resilience facility until the end of 2026. payments in relation to the resources transferred from shared management funds shall be subject to the availability of funds approved in the annual eu budget. ### (19) disbursements under repowereu shall be made following the rules of the recovery and resilience facility until the end of 2026.


### (20) a request for a dedicated funding for repowereu measures , including allocation from the market stability reserve , transfers from the funds governed by regulation (eu) 2021/1060 and allocated from european agricultural fund for rural development , submitted in a plan , should be justified by a higher financial need linked to additional reforms and investments included in the repowereu chapter. ### (20) a request for a dedicated funding for repowereu measures , including allocation from the market stability reserve , submitted in a plan , should be justified by a higher financial need linked to additional reforms and investments included in the repowereu chapter.


### (21) the commission should monitor the implementation of reforms and investments outlined in the repowereu chapter and their contribution to the repowereu objectives , as established in regulation (eu) 2021/241. ### (21) the commission shall monitor and report on the implementation of reforms and investments outlined in the repowereu chapter and their contribution to the repowereu and european green deal objectives , as established in regulation (eu) 2021/241.


### (21) the commission should monitor the implementation of reforms and investments outlined in the repowereu chapter and their contribution to the repowereu objectives , as established in regulation (eu) 2021/241. ### (21) the commission should monitor the implementation of reforms and investments outlined in the repowereu chapter and their contribution to the repowereu objectives , as established in regulation (eu) 2021/241. in particular , the commission should assess how the recovery and resilience plans and their repowereu chapters contribute to upward economic and social convergence and prioritise energy poor and vulnerable consumers , also taking into account social and regional inequalities.


### (21) the commission should monitor the implementation of reforms and investments outlined in the repowereu chapter and their contribution to the repowereu objectives , as established in regulation (eu) 2021/241. ### (21) the commission should monitor the implementation of reforms and investments outlined in the repowereu chapter and their contribution to the repowereu objectives , as established in regulation (eu) 2021/241. in particular , the commission should assess how the recovery and resilience plans and their repowereu chapters contribute to upward economic and social convergence and prioritise energy-poor and vulnerable consumers , also taking into account social and regional inequalities , including rural-urban disparities.


### (22) recent geopolitical events have affected prices of energy and construction materials and have also caused shortages in the global supply chains. these developments may have a direct impact on the capacity to implement some investments included in the recovery and resilience plans. to the extent that member states can demonstrate that such developments make a specific milestone or target , either totally or partially , no longer achievable , such situations may be invoked as objective circumstances under article 21. these developments cannot constitute objective circumstances for revising reforms , as reforms are generally not cost dependent. in addition , no request for amendments should undermine the overall implementation of the recovery and resilience plans. ### (22) recent geopolitical events have affected prices of energy , food services , and construction materials and have also caused shortages in the global supply chains. these developments may have a direct impact on the capacity to implement some investments included in the recovery and resilience plans. to the extent that member states can demonstrate that such developments make a specific milestone or target , either totally or partially , no longer achievable , such situations may be invoked as objective circumstances under article 21. these developments cannot constitute objective circumstances for revising reforms , as reforms are generally not cost dependent. in addition , no request for amendments should undermine the overall implementation of the recovery and resilience plans.


### 1. in line with the six pillars referred in article 3 of this regulation , the coherence and synergies they generate , and in the context of the covid-19 crisis , the general objective of the facility shall be to promote the union’s economic , social and territorial cohesion by improving the resilience , crisis preparedness , adjustment capacity and growth potential of the member states , by mitigating the social and economic impact of that crisis , in particular on women , by contributing to the implementation of the european pillar of social rights , by supporting the green transition , by contributing to the achievement of the union’s 2030 climate targets set out in point (11) of article 2 of regulation (eu) 2018/1999 ,and by complying with the objective of eu climate neutrality by 2050 and of the digital transition , by increasing the resilience of the union energy system through a decrease of dependence on fossil fuels and diversification of energy supplies at union level (‘repowereu objectives’) thereby contributing to the upward economic and social convergence , restoring and promoting sustainable growth and the integration of the economies of the union , fostering high quality employment creation , and contributing to the strategic autonomy of the union alongside an open economy and generating european added value. ### 1. in line with the six pillars referred in article 3 of this regulation , the coherence and synergies they generate , and in the context of the covid-19 crisis , the general objective of the facility shall be to promote the union’s economic , social and territorial cohesion by improving the resilience , crisis preparedness , adjustment capacity and sustainable growth potential of the member states , by mitigating the social and economic impact of that crisis , in particular on women , by contributing to the implementation of the european pillar of social rights , by supporting the green and just transition , by contributing to the achievement of the union’s 2030 climate targets set out in point (11) of article 2 of regulation (eu) 2018/1999 , by complying with the objective of eu climate neutrality by 2050 and of the digital transition , by increasing the resilience of the union energy system through a complete cut of dependence on fossil fuels and diversification of energy supplies at union level (‘repowereu objectives’) thereby contributing to the upward economic and social convergence , restoring and promoting sustainable growth and the integration of the economies of the union , fostering high quality employment creation , and contributing to the strategic autonomy of the union alongside an open economy and generating european added value.


### 1. in line with the six pillars referred in article 3 of this regulation , the coherence and synergies they generate , and in the context of the covid-19 crisis , the general objective of the facility shall be to promote the union’s economic , social and territorial cohesion by improving the resilience , crisis preparedness , adjustment capacity and growth potential of the member states , by mitigating the social and economic impact of that crisis , in particular on women , by contributing to the implementation of the european pillar of social rights , by supporting the green transition , by contributing to the achievement of the union’s 2030 climate targets set out in point (11) of article 2 of regulation (eu) 2018/1999 ,and by complying with the objective of eu climate neutrality by 2050 and of the digital transition , by increasing the resilience of the union energy system through a decrease of dependence on fossil fuels and diversification of energy supplies at union level (‘repowereu objectives’) thereby contributing to the upward economic and social convergence , restoring and promoting sustainable growth and the integration of the economies of the union , fostering high quality employment creation , and contributing to the strategic autonomy of the union alongside an open economy and generating european added value. ### 1. in line with the six pillars referred in article 3 of this regulation , the coherence and synergies they generate , and in the context of the covid-19 crisis , the general objective of the facility shall be to promote the union’s economic , social and territorial cohesion by improving the resilience , crisis preparedness , adjustment capacity and growth potential of the member states , by mitigating the social and economic impact of that crisis , in particular on women , by contributing to the implementation of the european pillar of social rights , by supporting the green transition , by contributing to the achievement of the union’s 2030 climate targets set out in point (11) of article 2 of regulation (eu) 2018/1999 , by complying with the objective of eu climate neutrality by 2050 and of the digital transition and by increasing the resilience of the union energy system through an end of dependence on fossil fuels and accelerated transition to highly efficient and fully renewable energy system , thereby contributing to the upward economic and social convergence , restoring and promoting sustainable growth and the integration of the economies of the union , fostering high quality employment creation , and contributing to the strategic autonomy of the union alongside an open economy and generating european added value.


### 1. in line with the six pillars referred in article 3 of this regulation , the coherence and synergies they generate , and in the context of the covid-19 crisis , the general objective of the facility shall be to promote the union’s economic , social and territorial cohesion by improving the resilience , crisis preparedness , adjustment capacity and growth potential of the member states , by mitigating the social and economic impact of that crisis , in particular on women , by contributing to the implementation of the european pillar of social rights , by supporting the green transition , by contributing to the achievement of the union’s 2030 climate targets set out in point (11) of article 2 of regulation (eu) 2018/1999 ,and by complying with the objective of eu climate neutrality by 2050 and of the digital transition , by increasing the resilience of the union energy system through a decrease of dependence on fossil fuels and diversification of energy supplies at union level (‘repowereu objectives’) thereby contributing to the upward economic and social convergence , restoring and promoting sustainable growth and the integration of the economies of the union , fostering high quality employment creation , and contributing to the strategic autonomy of the union alongside an open economy and generating european added value. ### 1. in line with the six pillars referred in article 3 of this regulation , the coherence and synergies they generate , and in the context of the covid-19 crisis , the general objective of the facility shall be to promote the union’s economic , social and territorial cohesion by improving the resilience , crisis preparedness , adjustment capacity and growth potential of the member states , by mitigating the social and economic impact of that crisis , in particular on women , by contributing to the implementation of the european pillar of social rights , by supporting the green transition , by contributing to the achievement of the union’s 2030 climate targets set out in point (11) of article 2 of regulation (eu) 2018/1999 , and by complying with the objective of eu climate neutrality by 2050 and of the digital transition , by increasing the resilience of the union energy system through accelerated transition to a highly efficient and fully renewables-based energy system in view of ending dependence on fossil fuels (‘repowereu objective’) thereby contributing to the upward economic and social convergence , restoring and promoting sustainable growth and the integration of the economies of the union , fostering high quality employment creation , and contributing to the strategic autonomy of the union alongside an open economy and generating european added value.


### 1. in line with the six pillars referred in article 3 of this regulation , the coherence and synergies they generate , and in the context of the covid-19 crisis , the general objective of the facility shall be to promote the union’s economic , social and territorial cohesion by improving the resilience , crisis preparedness , adjustment capacity and growth potential of the member states , by mitigating the social and economic impact of that crisis , in particular on women , by contributing to the implementation of the european pillar of social rights , by supporting the green transition , by contributing to the achievement of the union’s 2030 climate targets set out in point (11) of article 2 of regulation (eu) 2018/1999 ,and by complying with the objective of eu climate neutrality by 2050 and of the digital transition , by increasing the resilience of the union energy system through a decrease of dependence on fossil fuels and diversification of energy supplies at union level (‘repowereu objectives’) thereby contributing to the upward economic and social convergence , restoring and promoting sustainable growth and the integration of the economies of the union , fostering high quality employment creation , and contributing to the strategic autonomy of the union alongside an open economy and generating european added value. ### 1. in line with the six pillars referred in article 3 of this regulation , the coherence and synergies they generate , and in the context of the covid-19 crisis , the general objective of the facility shall be to promote the union’s economic , social and territorial cohesion by improving the resilience , crisis preparedness , adjustment capacity and growth potential of the member states , by mitigating the social and economic impact of that crisis , in particular on women , by contributing to the implementation of the european pillar of social rights , by supporting the green transition , by contributing to the achievement of the union’s 2030 climate targets set out in point (11) of article 2 of regulation (eu) 2018/1999 ,and by complying with the objective of eu climate neutrality by 2050 and of the digital transition , by increasing the resilience of the union energy system through an end of dependence on fossil fuels and an accelerated transition to an efficient and fully renewable energy system thereby contributing to the upward economic and social convergence , restoring and promoting sustainable growth and the integration of the economies of the union , fostering high quality employment creation , and contributing to the strategic autonomy of the union alongside an open economy and generating european added value.


### 4. the loan support to the recovery and resilience plan of the member state concerned shall not be higher than the difference between the total costs of the recovery and resilience plan , as revised where relevant , and the maximum financial contribution referred to in article 11 , including , where relevant , the revenue referred to in article 21a as well as , where relevant , resources from shared management programmes to support repowereu objectives referred to in article 21b. ### 4. the loan support to the recovery and resilience plan of the member state concerned shall not be higher than the difference between the total costs of the recovery and resilience plan , as revised where relevant , and the maximum financial contribution referred to in article 11 , including , where relevant , the revenue referred to in article 21a.


### for the preparation and , where available , for the implementation of the recovery and resilience plan , a summary of the consultation process , conducted in accordance with the national legal framework , of local and regional authorities , social partners , civil society organisations , youth organisations and other relevant stakeholders , and how the input of the stakeholders is reflected in the recovery and resilience plan; in particular , the summary of the consultation process shall explain the outcome of the consultations with local and regional authorities and other relevant stakeholders on reforms and investments included in the repowereu chapter and outline how the input received was reflected in the repowereu chapter; ### for the preparation and , where available , for the implementation of the recovery and resilience plan , a summary of the mandatory consultation process , conducted in accordance with the national legal framework , of local and regional authorities , social partners , civil society organisations , youth organisations and other relevant stakeholders , and how the input of the stakeholders is reflected in the recovery and resilience plan; in particular , the summary of the mandatory consultation process shall explain the outcome of the consultations with local and regional authorities and other relevant stakeholders on reforms and investments included in the repowereu chapter and outline how the input received was reflected in the repowereu chapter; the mandatory consultation process shall be implemented inline with the article 8 of the common provisions regulation 2021-2027;


### for the preparation and , where available , for the implementation of the recovery and resilience plan , a summary of the consultation process , conducted in accordance with the national legal framework , of local and regional authorities , social partners , civil society organisations , youth organisations and other relevant stakeholders , and how the input of the stakeholders is reflected in the recovery and resilience plan; in particular , the summary of the consultation process shall explain the outcome of the consultations with local and regional authorities and other relevant stakeholders on reforms and investments included in the repowereu chapter and outline how the input received was reflected in the repowereu chapter; ### for the preparation and , where available , for the implementation of the recovery and resilience plan , a detailed report on the consultation process , conducted in accordance with the national legal framework , of local and regional authorities , social partners , civil society organisations , youth organisations and other relevant stakeholders , and how the input of the stakeholders is reflected in the recovery and resilience plan; in particular , the report on the public consultation process shall explain the timeline and the outcome of the consultations with local and regional authorities , experts , civil society representatives and other relevant stakeholders on reforms and investments included in the repowereu chapter , including the mandatory publication of the draft repowereu chapter and an explanation of where and for how long it was available for public comments and inputs , stakeholders' analysis of alternatives that do not require new infrastructure investments , and outline how the input received from stakeholders was reflected in the repowereu chapter;


### for the preparation and , where available , for the implementation of the recovery and resilience plan , a summary of the consultation process , conducted in accordance with the national legal framework , of local and regional authorities , social partners , civil society organisations , youth organisations and other relevant stakeholders , and how the input of the stakeholders is reflected in the recovery and resilience plan; in particular , the summary of the consultation process shall explain the outcome of the consultations with local and regional authorities and other relevant stakeholders on reforms and investments included in the repowereu chapter and outline how the input received was reflected in the repowereu chapter; ### for the preparation and , where available , for the implementation of the recovery and resilience plan , a detailed report on the consultation process , conducted in accordance with the national legal framework , of local and regional authorities , social partners , civil society organisations , youth organisations and other relevant stakeholders , and how the input of the stakeholders is reflected in the recovery and resilience plan; in particular , the report on the public consultation process shall explain the timeline and outcome of the consultations with local and regional authorities , experts , civil society representatives , and other relevant stakeholders on reforms and investments included in the repowereu chapter , including the mandatory publication of the draft repower euchapter and an explanation of where and for how long it was available for public comments and inputs , stakeholders' analysis of alternatives that do not require new infrastructure investments , and outline how the input received from stakeholders was reflected in the repowereu chapter;


### (da) whether the reforms and investments referred to in article 21c(1) effectively contribute towards the diversification of the union’s energy supply or reduction of dependence on fossil fuels before 2030.; ### (da) whether the reforms and investments referred to in article 21c(1) effectively contribute towards the diversification of the union’s energy supply or cut of dependence on fossil fuels before 2030.;


### (da) whether the reforms and investments referred to in article 21c(1) effectively contribute towards the diversification of the union’s energy supply or reduction of dependence on fossil fuels before 2030.; ### (da) whether the reforms and investments referred to in article 21c(1) effectively contribute towards the significant reduction of dependence on fossil fuels before 2030.;


### (1) eur 20 000 000 000 in current prices shall be available , in line with article 10e(4) of directive 2003/87/ec , for implementation under this regulation to increase the resilience of the union energy system through a decrease of dependence on fossil fuels and diversification of energy supplies at union level. that amount shall be made available in the form of external assigned revenue within the meaning of article 21(5) of the financial regulation. ### (1) eur 20 000 000 000 in current prices shall be available , in line with article 10e(4) of directive 2003/87/ec , for implementation under this regulation to increase the resilience of the union energy system through a cut of dependence on fossil fuels and diversification of energy supplies at union level. that amount shall be made available in the form of external assigned revenue within the meaning of article 21(5) of the financial regulation.


### article 21b ### deleted


### (1) the recovery and resilience plan submitted to the commission after [the entry into force of this amending regulation] shall contain a repowereu chapter. the repowereu chapter shall outline reforms and investments , with their corresponding milestones and targets , other than measures referred in paragraph 2 (a) , aiming to contribute to the repowereu objectives , by: ### (1) the recovery and resilience plan submitted to the commission after [the entry into force of this amending regulation] shall contain a repowereu chapter. the repowereu chapter shall outline reforms and investments , with their corresponding milestones and targets , other than measures referred in paragraph 2 (a) , aiming to contribute to the repowereu and european green deal objectives , by:


### improving energy infrastructure and facilities to meet immediate security of supply needs for oil and gas , notably to enable diversification of supply in the interest of the union as a whole , ### improving sustainable energy infrastructure and facilities to meet immediate security of supply needs , notably to enable diversification of supply in the interest of the union as a whole ,


### supporting the objectives in points (a) , (b) and (c) through an accelerated requalification of the workforce towards green skills , as well as support of the value chains in key materials and technologies linked to the green transition. ### supporting the objectives in points (a) , (b) and (c) through an accelerated requalification of the workforce towards green and digital skills , as well as support of the value chains in key materials and technologies linked to the green and just transition.


### (4) by way of derogation from articles 5(2) , 17(4) , 18(4) point (d) and 19(3) points (d) , the principle of “do no significant harm” within the meaning of article 17 of regulation (eu) 2020/852 shall not apply to the reforms and investments expected to contribute to the repowereu objectives under paragraph 1 , point (a) of this article. ### deleted


### (1) the commission shall monitor the implementation of the measures outlined in the repowereu chapter and their contribution to the repowereu objectives. ### (1) the commission shall monitor and report on the implementation of the measures outlined in the repowereu chapter and their contribution to the repowereu and european green deal objectives.


### (1) eur 20 000 000 000 in current prices shall be available , in line with article 10e(4) of directive 2003/87/ec , for implementation under this regulation to increase the resilience of the union energy system through a decrease of dependence on fossil fuels and diversification of energy supplies at union level. that amount shall be made available in the form of external assigned revenue within the meaning of article 21(5) of the financial regulation. ### (1) eur 20 000 000 000 in current prices shall be available , in line with article 10e(4) of directive 2003/87/ec , for implementation under this regulation to increase the resilience of the union energy system through a decrease of dependence on fossil fuels and by boosting investments in energy efficiency and renewable energy generation. that amount shall be made available in the form of external assigned revenue within the meaning of article 21(5) of the financial regulation.


### improving energy infrastructure and facilities to meet immediate security of supply needs for oil and gas , notably to enable diversification of supply in the interest of the union as a whole , ### deleted


### improving energy infrastructure and facilities to meet immediate security of supply needs for oil and gas , notably to enable diversification of supply in the interest of the union as a whole , ### improving energy infrastructure and facilities of immediate and temporary use to meet security of supply needs , notably to reduce union's energy imports and vulnerabilities during the nearest winter seasons of 2022-2023 , to enable diversification of supply in the interest of the union as a whole ,


### boosting energy efficiency in buildings , decarbonising industry , increasing production and uptake of sustainable biomethane and renewable or fossil-free hydrogen and increasing the share of renewable energy , ### boosting energy efficiency and savings , notably in transport and buildings , including in heating and cooling sectors , with adequate priority for the needs of energy-poor and vulnerable consumers ,


### an explanation on how the combination of the measures referred to in paragraph 1 and points (a) and (b) of this paragraph is coherent , effective and expected to contribute to the repowereu objectives , including a quantification of the energy savings. ### an explanation on how the combination of the measures referred to in paragraph 1 and points (a) and (b) of this paragraph is coherent , effective and expected to contribute to the repowereu objectives , including a quantification of the energy savings and an explanation of how green and more energy efficient solutions that do not require new infrastructure investments were prioritised.


### resources allocated under article 81a of regulation (eu) 2021/2115 shall support measures in article 21c(1)(b) of this regulation for farm investments for the benefit of farmers or groups of farmers , in particular to contribute reducing the use of synthetic fertilisers , increasing production of renewable energy and sustainable biomethane , and boosting energy efficiency. ### resources allocated under article 81a of regulation (eu) 2021/2115 shall support measures in article 21c(1)(b) of this regulation for farm investments for the benefit of farmers or groups of farmers , in particular to contribute reducing the use of synthetic fertilisers , increasing production of renewable energy and sustainable biomethane produced from waste and residue feedstock as listed in annex ix - part a of directive (eu) 2018/2001 , and boosting energy efficiency. measures to increase production of renewable energy and biomethane shall comply with applicable sustainability and greenhouse gas emissions savings criteria under article 29 of directive 2018/2001 , and , as concerns sustainable biomethane production , shall monitor and limit methane leakages as far as possible.


### boosting energy efficiency in buildings , decarbonising industry , increasing production and uptake of sustainable biomethane and renewable or fossil-free hydrogen and increasing the share of renewable energy , ### boosting energy efficiency in buildings , decarbonising industry , increasing production and uptake of sustainable biomethane produced from waste and residue feedstock as listed in annex ix - part a of directive (eu) 2018/2001 , and renewable or fossil-free hydrogen and increasing the share of renewable energy ,


### [...] ### deleted


### (1) for the period until 31 december 2026 , the allowances released pursuant to article 1(6) of decision (eu) 2015/1814 shall be auctioned until the amount of revenue obtained from such auctioning has reached eur 20 billion. this revenue shall be made available to the recovery and resilience facility established by regulation (eu) 2021/241 and shall be implemented in accordance with the provisions of that regulation. ### (1) as an extraordinary and one-time measure for the period until 31 december 2026 , allowances from the quantity of allowances allocated free of charge shall be set aside and shall be auctioned until the amount of revenue obtained from such auctioning has reached eur 20 billion. this revenue shall be made available to the recovery and resilience facility established by regulation (eu) 2021/241 and shall be implemented in accordance with the provisions of that regulation.


### article 5 ### deleted


### the measures referred to in article 21c (1) and (2) are expected to effectively contribute towards the union’s security of supply for the union as a whole , notably through a diversification of energy supply or reduction of dependence on fossil fuels before 2030.’. ### the measures referred to in article 21c (1) and (2) are expected to effectively contribute towards the union’s security of supply for the union as a whole , notably through a reduction of dependence on fossil fuels well before 2030 by boosting investments into energy efficiency and energy savings and renewable energy generation.’.


### — the implementation of the envisaged measures is expected to significantly contribute to the improvement of energy infrastructure and facilities to meet immediate security of supply needs for oil and gas , notably to enable diversification of supply in the interest of the union as a whole , ### deleted


### — the implementation of the envisaged measures is expected to significantly contribute to boosting energy efficiency in buildings , decarbonising industry , increasing production and uptake of sustainable biomethane and renewable or fossil free hydrogen and increasing the share of renewable energy , ### — the implementation of the envisaged measures is expected to significantly contribute to boosting energy efficiency and savings in transport and buildings , including in heating and cooling , decarbonising industry , increasing production and uptake of sustainable biomethane and renewable hydrogen and increasing the share of renewable energy ,


### — whether the measures and explanation , provided under article 21c (1) are complementary to each other and significantly contribute , together with measures under article 21c(2) , points (a) and (b) , to achieve the union’s diversification of energy supply or reduction of dependence on fossil fuels before 2030.’ ### — whether the measures and explanation , provided under article 21c (1) are complementary to each other and significantly contribute , together with measures under article 21c(2) , points (a) and (b) , to achieve the union’s reduction of dependence on fossil fuels before 2030.’


### the measures referred to in article 21c (1) and (2) are expected to effectively contribute towards the union’s security of supply for the union as a whole , notably through a diversification of energy supply or reduction of dependence on fossil fuels before 2030.’. ### the measures referred to in article 21c (1) and (2) are expected to effectively contribute towards the union’s security of supply for the union as a whole , notably through a reduction of dependence on fossil fuels well before 2030 by boosting investments into energy efficiency , energy savings and renewable energy generation.’.


### (1) member states submitting to the commission a recovery and resilience plan containing a repowereu chapter in accordance with regulation (eu) 2021/241 of the european parliament and of the council may allocate , in the proposal for a cap strategic plan referred to in article 118 or in the request for amendment of a cap strategic plan referred to in article 119 , up to 12.5% of its initial allocation for the eafrd to the recovery and resilience facility. ### (1) member states submitting to the commission a recovery and resilience plan containing a repowereu chapter in accordance with regulation (eu) 2021/241 of the european parliament and of the council may allocate , in the request for amendment of a cap strategic plan referred to in article 119 , part or all of the amount originally allocated to support for investments under article 73 , within a maximum of 5% of its initial allocation for the eafrd , to the recovery and resilience facility.


### (5) the eafrd allocation delivered through the recovery and resilience facility , in accordance with paragraph 1 , shall be fully included: ### (5) the eafrd allocation delivered through the recovery and resilience facility , in accordance with paragraph 1 , shall not be included:


### in the calculation of the minimum financial allocation referred in article 93 (1) and shall for the purpose of article 93 (3) be considered as an intervention referred to in article 93 (2). 100% of the allocated expenditure will be taken into account for the calculation referred to in article 93(2); ### in the calculation of the minimum financial allocation referred in article 93 (1) and shall not for the purpose of article 93 (3) be considered as an intervention referred to in article 93 (2).


### in the calculation of the reduction of the minimum financial allocation for eco-schemes as defined in article 97(2) and shall for the purpose of article 97 (3) be considered as an intervention in accordance with articles 70 , 72 , 73 and 74. ### in the calculation of the reduction of the minimum financial allocation for eco-schemes as defined in article 97(2) and shall not for the purpose of article 97 (3) be considered as an intervention in accordance with articles 70 , 72 , 73 and 74.


### — having regard to the first mediterranean assessment report on climate and environmental change in the mediterranean , released by the mediterranean experts on climate and environmental change (medecc) , ### — having regard to the first mediterranean assessment report on climate and environmental change in the mediterranean , released by the mediterranean experts on climate and environmental change (medecc) in 2020 ,


### e. whereas the density of waste has more than doubled in thirty years; whereas the improper management and treatment of waste from rivers and urban areas make the mediterranean the area with the sixth largest accumulation of marine litter in the world; ### e. whereas the density of waste has more than doubled in thirty years; whereas the improper management and treatment of waste from rivers and urban areas make the mediterranean the area with the sixth largest accumulation of marine litter in the world , in particular , the damaging impact of estimated 730 tonnes of plastic waste that are dumped every day in the basin and of the municipal solid waste generation that has been increasing across the whole region since 2014;


### h. whereas the mediterranean basin is warming 20 % faster than the global average; whereas global warming will cause severe consequences that must be anticipated; whereas meeting the paris agreement limit of 1.5 °c of warming calls for a halving of the eu’s energy demand by 2050 compared to 2015 levels and requires the other countries of the mediterranean area to contribute through increased cooperation; ### h. whereas the mediterranean basin is warming 20 % faster than the global average; whereas global warming will cause severe consequences that must be anticipated specifically regarding precipitation and the hydrological cycle , but also mean warming and heat extremes (in both the terrestrial and marine environment) , sea level rise and sea water acidification , as described in the 2020 medecc report; whereas meeting the paris agreement limit of 1.5 °c of warming calls for a halving of the eu’s energy demand by 2050 compared to 2015 levels and requires the other countries of the mediterranean area to contribute through increased cooperation;


### i. whereas several territorial cooperation initiatives have been developed over the years in the mediterranean , such as the union for the mediterranean , the eu strategy for the adriatic and ionian region (eusair) , the westmed initiative , the european neighbourhood instrument cross-border cooperation (eni cbc) programme , and the next med , euromed , adrion and marittimo interreg programmes; ### i. whereas several transnational and territorial cooperation frameworks and initiatives have been developed over the years in the mediterranean , such as the union for the mediterranean , the euro-mediterranean regional and local assembly of the european committee of the regions (arlem) , the eu strategy for the adriatic and ionian region (eusair) , the eu initiative for the western mediterranean (westmed) , interreg and eni cbc programmes (e.g. med , euro-med , enicbc med , next-med , adrion , marittimo) , the mediterranean cooperation alliance (medcoopalliance) , the networks of regions and local administrations (cpmr and its intermediterranean commission , medcities , latin arc) , and euro-regions (adriatic-ionian , pyrenean-mediterranean);


### j. whereas member states should apply an ecosystem-based approach to maritime spatial planning , consistently with the eu green deal climate and biodiversity goals; ### j. whereas member states should apply an ecosystem-based approach to maritime spatial planning , including a robust strategic environmental assessment that considers the cumulative impacts of all maritime activities , climate change , the precautionary principle , sensitivity mapping , active stakeholder engagement , consistently with the eu green deal climate and biodiversity goals;


### 1. stresses that the development of the blue economy in the mediterranean will inevitably increase competition for the use of marine and coastal space and resources; calls for the full deployment of ecosystem-based integrated coastal zone management (iczm) and maritime spatial planning (msp) as tools to avoid conflicts and promote harmonious sustainable development across the mediterranean; ### 1. stresses that the development of the blue economy in the mediterranean will inevitably increase competition for the use of marine and coastal space and resources; calls for the full deployment of ecosystem-based integrated coastal zone management (iczm) and maritime spatial planning (msp) as tools to avoid conflicts and promote harmonious sustainable development across the mediterranean that develops within ecological limits with full respect for the planetary boundaries;


### 3. believes that the governance of the mediterranean could be improved through better coordination and the setting up of a dedicated operational instrument for the development of an integrated and sustainable blue economy strategy; ### 3. believes that the governance of the mediterranean could be improved through better coordination and the setting up of a dedicated operational instrument for the development of an integrated and sustainable blue economy strategy that develops within planetary boundaries;


### 4. calls for the deployment of a macro-regional strategy at the scale of the entire mediterranean basin , dedicated to climate change mitigation , environmental conservation and the sustainable development of the blue economy; believes that such a strategy could be used more specifically to foster circular economy projects in the fisheries sector; address plastic pollution; protect biodiversity; enhance relations with third countries with respect to illegal , unreported and unregulated fishing; contribute to solving usage conflicts through adequate maritime spatial planning; preserve the socio-economic contribution of fisheries to the well-being of coastal communities , in particular in islands; promote stock management measures across the mediterranean basin; encourage third countries to implement maritime protected areas in their territorial waters; provide for the sustainable economic development of the fisheries and aquaculture sector , in particular with respect to transformation and commercialisation; and support the diversification of fishers’ activities , including retraining and reskilling. ### 4. calls for the deployment of a macro-regional strategy at the scale of the entire mediterranean basin , dedicated to climate change mitigation , environmental conservation and the sustainable development of the blue economy that develops within planetary boundaries; believes that such a strategy could be used more specifically to foster circular economy projects in the fisheries and aquaculture sector; address plastic and industrial pollution; protect biodiversity; enhance relations with third countries to eliminate illegal , unreported and unregulated fishing; contribute to solving usage conflicts through adequate maritime spatial planning; preserve the socio-economic contribution of fisheries , in particular small-scale fisheries , to the well-being of coastal communities , in particular in islands; promote stock management measures across the mediterranean basin; encourage all mediterranean countries to implement marine protected areas in their territorial waters; provide for the sustainable economic development of the fisheries and aquaculture sector , in particular with respect to transformation , decarbonisation and commercialisation; and support the diversification of fishers’ activities , including retraining and reskilling.


### 6. considers that environmental problems are cross-cutting and complex , such that each entity , region or state acting alone can only provide partial solutions , and that it is necessary to broaden the common approach to embrace the whole mediterranean area; ### 6. considers that environmental problems are cross-cutting and complex , such that each entity , region or state acting alone can only provide partial solutions , and that it is necessary to broaden an integrated and common approach to embrace the whole mediterranean area;


### 7. considers that a dynamic of cooperation set in motion by the union and its member states and regions can have a knock-on effect on the whole basin; ### 7. considers that a dynamic of cooperation set in motion by the union and its member states and regions can have a knock-on effect on the whole basin; recalls that direct and shared management programmes as european territorial cooperation ones represent a major opportunity to facilitate an alignment of objectives , funds and projects;


### 9. recalls that overfishing is still a threat to the survival of many species; is convinced that the development of a blue economy can support sustainable and inclusive development and quality jobs; ### 9. recalls that overfishing is still a threat to the survival of many species; is convinced that the development of a sustainable blue economy can support sustainable and inclusive development and quality jobs;


### 10. draws attention to the increasing density of maritime traffic and the danger of oil spills; ### 10. draws attention to the increasing density of maritime traffic and the danger of oil spills and the risks these activities present for marine ecosystems and particularly sea mammals;


### 11. draws attention to the impacts caused by tourism due to its seasonality and its uncontrolled development (such as cruises , new polluting leisure activities); ### 11. draws attention to the impacts caused by tourism due to its seasonality and its uncontrolled development (such as cruises , worsening coastal erosion , new polluting leisure activities);


### 14. welcomes the westmed sea basin strategy in the western mediterranean and interreg programmes such as marittimo , as good examples of direct and diversified cooperation , including at regional level , with shared objectives; ### 14. welcomes the westmed sea basin initiative in the western mediterranean and interreg programmes such as interreg mediterranean , adrion , or marittimo , as good examples of direct and diversified cooperation , including at regional level , with shared objectives;


### 15. welcomes the progress of the adriatic-ionian macro-regional strategy (eusair) which has mobilised the member countries and their regions , third countries and their local authorities; considers eusair a successful example where the union proved to be a driving force and a vector of openness; maintains that these same principles and a similar common approach must be applied to the other areas of the mediterranean; ### 15. welcomes the progress of the adriatic-ionian macro-regional strategy (eusair) which has mobilised the member countries and their regions , third countries and their local authorities; considers eusair a successful example where the union proved to be a driving force and a vector of openness; maintains that these same principles and a similar common approach must be applied to the other areas of the mediterranean; considers that such a macro-regional strategy can amplify and accelerate the policies necessary for the development and preservation of the available resources through the cooperation of all involved actors;


### 15. welcomes the progress of the adriatic-ionian macro-regional strategy (eusair) which has mobilised the member countries and their regions , third countries and their local authorities; considers eusair a successful example where the union proved to be a driving force and a vector of openness; maintains that these same principles and a similar common approach must be applied to the other areas of the mediterranean; ### 15. welcomes the progress of the adriatic-ionian macro-regional strategy (eusair) which has mobilised the member countries and their regions , third countries and their local authorities; considers eusair a successful example where the union proved to be a driving force and a vector of openness , benefitting from the adrion transnational programme which aligned objectives support the fulfilment of the strategy’s roadmap; maintains that these same principles and a similar common approach must be applied to the other areas of the mediterranean;


### 17. calls on the commission to provide support for a macro-regional strategy in the mediterranean taking account of its ‘new agenda for the mediterranean’ , in particular its point five on the ‘ecological transition , climate resilience , energy and the environment’; ### 17. calls on the commission to provide support for a macro-regional strategy in the mediterranean taking account of its ‘new agenda for the mediterranean’ , in particular its point five on the ‘ecological transition , climate resilience , energy and the environment’; considers that a macro-regional strategy for the mediterranean , which would entail a substantial and active involvement of the concerned regional and local authorities , has a remarkable potential in addressing the multidimensional environmental challenges of the whole basin;


### 17. stresses that cross-border healthcare improvements can benefit patients by enabling equitable access to health services and infrastructure in other member states , including diagnosis and clinical trials , based on the principle of ‘easiest , closest , best and fastest’ access12 ; ### 17. stresses that cross-border healthcare improvements can benefit patients by enabling equitable access to health services and infrastructure in other member states , including diagnosis and clinical trials , based on the principle of ‘easiest , closest , best and fastest’ access12; calls for more efficient transport of patients to the nearest cross-border facilities where tackling all legal and administrative obstacles still represents a burden and could be settled by the ecbm regulation;


### 18. acknowledges the existence of the numerous successful health cross-border projects13 across europe , and that the experience gained from these could be capitalised on with a view to enhancing cross-border cooperation in this area , for the benefit of eu citizens; ### 18. acknowledges the existence of the numerous successful health cross-border projects13 across europe , and that the experience gained from these could be capitalised on with a view to enhancing cross-border cooperation in this area , for the benefit of eu citizens; furthermore , underlines the importance of learning from and further using the potential of success stories of some border regions;


### 21. calls on the commission to encourage better management of cross-border healthcare , as eu patients still face challenges in accessing healthcare in other member states and only a minority of potential patients are aware of their rights to seek cross-border healthcare; ### 21. calls on the commission to encourage better management of cross-border healthcare , as eu patients still face challenges in accessing healthcare in other member states and only a minority of potential patients are aware of their rights to seek cross-border healthcare; therefore , establishing standard protocols and regular meetings for developing integrated cross border emergency services would be most welcomed;


### f. whereas although the european skills agenda set the objective of having 70 % of the eu’s adult population possess at least basic digital skills by 2025 , 42 % of the eu population still does not have basic digital skills and 37 % of workers still lack sufficient digital skills according to the commission; whereas severe geographical disparities in people’s ict skills still exist; ### f. whereas although the european skills agenda set the objective of having 70 % of the eu’s adult population possess at least basic digital skills by 2025 , 42 % of the eu population still does not have basic digital skills and 37 % of workers still lack sufficient digital skills according to the commission; whereas severe geographical disparities in people’s ict skills still exist; whereas women are disproportionately underrepresented in the ict sector , occupying only 17% of ict-specialist roles in the eu;


### 5. calls on the commission to ensure that the future rural observatory gathers comprehensive and up-to-date data on the digital divide in order to help member states identify the needs of their regions; ### 5. calls on the commission to ensure that the future rural observatory gathers comprehensive , gender-disaggregated and up-to-date data on the digital divide in order to help member states identify the needs of their regions and cities;


### 7. calls on the member states to use cohesion policy resources to roll out smart villages post-2020 , which will contribute to the digitalisation of rural areas; ### 7. calls on the member states to use cohesion policy resources to roll out smart villages post-2020 , which will contribute to the digitalisation of rural areas through tailored projects aimed at improving broadband connectivity and infrastructure; recalls , however , that the digitalisation strategies should be adapted to the rural context and implemented with the involvement and active participation of the rural communities themselves;


### 9. stresses the need for a socially fair and inclusive digitalisation process that leaves no one behind; underlines that support under the erdf-cf should contribute to an inclusive digital society; ### 9. stresses the need for a socially fair , sustainable and inclusive digitalisation process that leaves no one behind; underlines that support under the erdf-cf should contribute to an inclusive digital society;


### 10. notes with concern that the expanded use of digital solutions and tictm as a result of the covid-19 pandemic has aggravated the pre-existing inequalities caused by digital divides across population groups; stresses , however , that digitalisation has the potential to benefit vulnerable groups; ### 10. notes with concern that the expanded use of digital solutions and tictm as a result of the covid-19 pandemic has aggravated the pre-existing inequalities caused by digital divides across population groups; stresses , however , that digitalisation has the potential to benefit vulnerable and marginalised groups;


### 11. asks the commission and the member states to develop a global strategy , that integrates a gender perspective across all levels in order to tackle social inequalities associated with digitalisation , with a view to enhancing its positive effects; ### 11. asks the commission and the member states to develop a global strategy , that integrates a gender perspective with targeted practice-based measures across all levels in order to tackle social inequalities associated with digitalisation , with a view to enhancing its positive effects;


### 14. underlines the crucial role of small and medium-sized enterprises (smes) in creating decent jobs , sustainable growth and rural development and believes that public investments through cohesion policy and other instruments will contribute to better social , economic and territorial cohesion in all eu regions; highlights that different types of smes require different types of support and incentives at the eu , national , regional and local levels , depending on their circumstances and level of technology adoption; ### 14. underlines the crucial role of micro , small and medium-sized enterprises (smes) in creating decent jobs , sustainable growth and rural development and believes that public investments through cohesion policy and other instruments will contribute to better social , economic and territorial cohesion in all eu regions; highlights that access to finance is one of the most pressing issues for many micro and small enterprises and that different types of smes require different types of support and incentives at the eu , national , regional and local levels , depending on their circumstances and level of technology adoption;


### 15. notes with concern that both start-ups and established smes struggle with a lack of skilled employees and highlights that the skills shortage is particularly acute for skills relating to digitalisation and new technologies , as 35 % of the labour force have low or no digital skills; believes that initiatives should be launched to support the smes facing specific challenges in training their workforces and attracting and retaining digital talent; ### 15. notes with concern that both start-ups and established smes struggle with a lack of skilled employees and highlights that the skills shortage is particularly acute for skills relating to digitalisation and new technologies , as 35 % of the labour force have low or no digital skills; believes that in the 2021-2027 programming period , new erdf and esf+ tailored programmes have the potential to support the smes facing specific challenges in training their workforces and attracting and retaining digital talent , while fostering flexible digital skills upskilling and reskilling opportunities for all (regardless of the employment situation , age , education level or profession);


### c. whereas , although the eu population has seen substantial growth in previous decades , the growth rate is now falling and the population is expected to decrease in the longer term; whereas europe will account for less than 4 % of the world’s population by 2070 , and long-term demographic trends in european regions indicate lower birth rates and ageing societies; ### c. whereas , although the eu population has seen substantial growth in previous decades , the growth rate is now falling and the population is expected to decrease in the longer term; whereas in 2019 europe was at just 6.9 % of the world's population (down from 13.5 % in 1960) , will account for less than 4 % by 2070 , and long-term demographic trends in european regions indicate lower birth rates and ageing societies;


### d. whereas the health and economic crisis generated by the covid-19 pandemic made clear that solidarity between generations is one of the driving forces of the recovery process; ### d. whereas the health and economic crisis generated by the covid-19 pandemic made clear that solidarity between generations , along with adequate funding for health and social care and sustainable economy , is one of the driving forces of the recovery process;


### e. whereas there is a high correlation between the socio-economic conditions of a region and its brain drain/gain dynamic; ### e. whereas there is a high correlation between the socio-economic conditions of a region and its brain drain/gain dynamic; whereas , within europe , movements of young educated professionals from southern and eastern europe to north-western europe have been recorded since the beginning of the economic crisis in 2008;


### 4. points out that europe is manifestly experiencing population ageing , affecting the dependency ratio and having negative effects on workforce growth , which is far behind the previous decade; warns of a visible decline of the labour force in eastern , southern and central european regions; ### 4. points out that europe is manifestly experiencing population ageing and declining birth rates , affecting the dependency ratio and having negative effects on workforce growth , which is far behind the previous decade; warns of a visible decline of the labour force in eastern , southern and central european regions;


### 4. supports innovation and digitisation with a view to promoting a vibrant , dynamic rural environment; calls on the commission to draw on the smart cities and towns initiatives to develop a new instrument to support start-ups in rural areas , thereby also boosting their economic and productive fabric; ### 4. supports innovation with a view to promoting a vibrant , dynamic rural environment; calls on the commission to draw on the smart cities and towns initiatives to develop a new instrument to support start-ups in rural areas , thereby also boosting their economic and productive fabric;


### 5. points to the ongoing covid-19 health crisis and the possible medium- and long-term implications for labour market dynamics; underlines that self-isolation and social distancing measures have had visible effects on production , demand and trade , reducing economic activity and leading to higher levels of unemployment , a sharp decline in corporate incomes , and higher public deficits; ### 5. points to the ongoing covid-19 health crisis and the possible medium- and long-term implications for labour market dynamics; underlines that self-isolation and social distancing measures have had visible effects on production , demand and trade , reducing economic activity and leading to higher levels of unemployment , a sharp decline in corporate incomes , and higher public deficits , and as a result , it can be predicted that , as after the 2008-2009 crisis a new wave of emigration of young people from eu member states with the lowest wage levels and the strongest restrictions on economic activity will occur , which is likely to lead to a wave of bankruptcies of small and medium-sized enterprises , emigration in those member states is likely to cause even more demographic concerns;


### 6. notes that in general rural , post-industrial and remote areas are facing a number of specific situations: a considerable decline in population numbers , lower than national or eu average levels of income and difficulties of territorial integration with other regions , making them more exposed to the risk of depopulation; points out that rural regions currently account for 28 % of europe’s population but this is predicted to fall significantly in the future; ### 6. notes that in general rural , post-industrial and remote areas are facing a number of specific situations: a considerable decline in population numbers , also due to birth rates , lower than national or eu average levels of income and difficulties of territorial integration with other regions , making them more exposed to the risk of depopulation; points out that rural regions currently account for 28 % of europe’s population but this is predicted to fall significantly in the future;


### 7. draws attention to some of the drivers of demographic change , forcing inhabitants from the abovementioned areas to leave and discouraging others from moving there: poor infrastructure , including a lack of fast broadband internet and missing transport networks , fewer job opportunities , lack of public services and difficult access to health services , fewer education opportunities , making it more difficult to adapt to technological change , and a lack of cultural venues and leisure activities; ### 7. draws attention to some of the drivers of demographic change , forcing inhabitants from the abovementioned areas to leave and discouraging others from moving there: poor infrastructure , including a lack of fast broadband internet and missing transport networks , fewer job opportunities , lack of public and private services and difficult access to health services , fewer education , utilities and social services opportunities , making it more difficult to adapt to technological change , and a lack of cultural venues and leisure activities;


### 8. stresses that this lack of diversification in the regional economic structure of certain regions risks creating a negative ‘label’ , also among their inhabitants , manifesting dissatisfaction with the quality of life and the facilities and services at their disposal; highlights in this context the brain drain effect , leading to the emigration of highly trained and qualified people from a particular region or country to another; points out , in particular , that the ‘exodus’ of medical staff such as doctors and nurses and teaching staff has led to a deterioration in the quality of medical care and education , making it difficult , especially in rural areas , to access high-quality care and education; ### 8. stresses that this lack of diversification in the regional economic structure of certain regions risks creating a negative ‘label’ , also among their inhabitants , manifesting dissatisfaction with the quality of life and the facilities and services at their disposal; highlights in this context the brain drain effect , leading to the emigration of highly trained and qualified people from a particular region or country to another; points out , in particular , that the ‘exodus’ of medical staff such as doctors and nurses and teaching staff , worsened by austerity policies and significant cuts in public funding to health and social care , has led to a deterioration in the quality of medical care and education , making it difficult , especially in rural areas , to access high-quality care and education;


### 10. underlines a pattern of ‘inner peripheralisation’ , in the sense that eastern and southern european regions report a substantially negative net population migration rate , while northern and western european regions report a substantially positive rate , receiving constantly large numbers of economic migrants; ### 10. underlines a pattern of ‘inner peripheralisation’ , in the sense that eastern and southern european regions report a substantially negative net population migration rate , while northern and western european regions report a substantially positive rate , receiving constantly large numbers of economic migrants; ; considers that these disparities are also exacerbated by unbalanced common eu support policies , such as the common agricultural policy , which still has huge disparities in support for farmers in different eu regions;


### 14. underlines , on the other hand , that overconcentration of the population in certain urban areas has already led to side-effects , such as congestion , rising housing and transport costs , pollution , deterioration of the quality of life , and urban sprawl , as well as a significant risk of poverty and social exclusion for certain segments of the population , and thus local authorities being unable to provide services to all residents of urban areas; ### 14. underlines , on the other hand , that overconcentration of the population in certain urban areas has already led to side-effects , such as congestion , rising housing and transport costs , pollution , insufficient water availability , waste-disposal problems , high energy consumption , deterioration of the quality of life , and urban sprawl , as well as a significant risk of poverty and social exclusion for certain segments of the population , and thus local authorities being unable to provide services to all residents of urban areas;


### 16. stresses that local and regional authorities should play a decisive role in developing territorial strategies , taking into consideration the development needs and the potential of the areas concerned , including the economic , social and demographic trends; points out that community-led local development strategies are a useful tool that can be used to create jobs and increase accessibility to services at local level; ### 16. stresses that local and regional authorities should play a decisive role in developing territorial strategies , taking into consideration the development needs and the potential of the areas concerned , including the economic , social and demographic trends; points out that community-led local development strategies are a useful , but underfunded , tool that can be used to create jobs and increase accessibility to services at local level;


### 18. recalls the need for strategies aimed at reversing labour migration; calls on local and regional authorities to tackle the brain drain in ‘sending’ regions through prevention , mitigation and appropriate responses; underlines in this context that there are already several initiatives in various member states , such as incentives for workers with highly specialised skills , aimed at turning the brain drain into a brain gain for the regions in question; ### 18. recalls the need for strategies aimed at reversing labour migration; calls on the national authorities , which could create the necessary conditions , local and regional authorities to tackle the brain drain in ‘sending’ regions through prevention , mitigation and appropriate responses; underlines in this context that there are already several initiatives in various member states , such as incentives for workers with highly specialised skills , aimed at turning the brain drain into a brain gain for the regions in question;


### 20. recalls that the recovery and resilience facility will provide large-scale financial support to make member states’ economies more resilient and better prepared for the future , and insists that member states should propose measures for addressing demographic change; highlights the importance of the instruments for a transition to sustainability such as the just transition fund and its implementation mechanism , which aim to support the communities affected by the energy transition and avoid the risk of depopulation; ### 20. recalls that the recovery and resilience facility will provide large-scale financial support to make member states’ economies more resilient and better prepared for the future , and insists that member states should propose measures for addressing demographic change in the most concerned regions; calls on member states to properly involve local and regional authorities in designing and preparing their plans in the context of the rrf; highlights the importance of the instruments for a transition to sustainability such as the just transition fund and its implementation mechanism , which aim to support the communities affected by the energy transition and avoid the risk of depopulation;


### 20. recalls that the recovery and resilience facility will provide large-scale financial support to make member states’ economies more resilient and better prepared for the future , and insists that member states should propose measures for addressing demographic change; highlights the importance of the instruments for a transition to sustainability such as the just transition fund and its implementation mechanism , which aim to support the communities affected by the energy transition and avoid the risk of depopulation; ### 20. recalls that the recovery and resilience facility will provide large-scale financial support to make member states’ economies more resilient and better prepared for the future , and insists that member states should propose measures for addressing demographic change , in particular more support for human capital; highlights the importance of the instruments for a transition to sustainability such as the just transition fund and its implementation mechanism , which aim to support the communities affected by the energy transition and avoid the risk of depopulation;


### 22. calls on the member states to conduct the programming and implementation process of the 2021-2027 cohesion policy with full respect for the partnership principle; stresses the importance of prioritising regional needs , including as regards demographic and migration aspects and urban challenges; ### 22. calls on the member states to conduct the programming and implementation process of the 2021-2027 cohesion policy with full respect for the partnership principle; stresses the importance of prioritising the needs of post-industrial and eu border regions , including as regards demographic and migration aspects and urban challenges;


### 23. calls on the member state to include demographic challenges in their national development policies and long-term strategies for sustainable development correlated with the european semester , thus ensuring proper financing for demographic issues; ### 23. calls on the member state and the commission to include demographic challenges in their national development policies and long-term strategies for sustainable development correlated with the european semester , thus ensuring proper financing for demographic issues;


### 24. calls on the regions at risk of depopulation to focus investments on universal accessibility to quality services and infrastructure and job creation; insists on investment in education , reskilling of workers , creating entrepreneurial conditions and supporting smes; ### 24. calls on the regions at risk of depopulation to focus investments on universal accessibility to quality services and infrastructure and job creation , for example by creating tax incentives for companies investing in production in the regions; insists on investment in education , reskilling of workers , creating entrepreneurial conditions and supporting smes;


### 30. insists that investments should be focused on information and communication technology , since this has the potential to reduce the distance between the users and to attract high-skilled workers; stresses the importance of funding the development and uptake of these technologies among companies and schools in rural and isolated regions and regions in industrial transition; ### 30. insists that investments should be focused on information and communication technology , and human capital , since this has the potential to reduce the distance between the users and to attract high-skilled workers; stresses the importance of funding the development and uptake of these technologies among companies and schools in rural and isolated regions and regions in industrial transition;


### 30. insists that investments should be focused on information and communication technology , since this has the potential to reduce the distance between the users and to attract high-skilled workers; stresses the importance of funding the development and uptake of these technologies among companies and schools in rural and isolated regions and regions in industrial transition; ### 30. insists that investments should be focused on information and communication technology , since this has the potential to reduce the distance between the users and to attract high-skilled workers; stresses the importance of funding the development and uptake of these technologies among companies and schools in rural and isolated regions and regions in industrial transition;


### 33. recommends , where appropriate , the reform of education and training systems in the member states , combined with policies to prevent a permanent brain drain from the ‘sending’ regions; insists on using local at regional advantages , as well as the development of economic and social facilities , not only to prevent the brain drain , but also to reverse this phenomenon; ### 33. recommends , where appropriate , the reform of education and training systems in the member states , combined with policies to prevent a permanent brain drain from the ‘sending’ regions; insists on using local at regional advantages , as well as the development of economic and social facilities , not only to prevent the brain drain , but also to reverse this phenomenon; recommends that higher education institutions training students studying agriculture and rural economics be encouraged to seek ways to increase their chances of entering/prioritising graduates from ‘sending’ regions , increasing their chances of obtaining higher education and returning and , once acquired , going back and contributing to the economic viability of the ‘sending’ region;


### 33. recommends , where appropriate , the reform of education and training systems in the member states , combined with policies to prevent a permanent brain drain from the ‘sending’ regions; insists on using local at regional advantages , as well as the development of economic and social facilities , not only to prevent the brain drain , but also to reverse this phenomenon; ### 33. considers that the issue of brain drain in the european union is complex and multi-factorial , and calls for a pragmatic policy response from both the union and the member states; recommends , where appropriate , a rethinking of education and training systems in the member states , that should be aimed at preventing a permanent brain drain from the ‘sending’ regions; insists on using local at regional advantages , as well as the development of economic and social facilities , not only to prevent the brain drain , but also to reverse this phenomenon;


### b. whereas there are concerns about the long-term social , economic , environmental and cultural consequences on the ors of the covid-19 crisis and brexit , and whereas these crises legitimately reinforce the demand that article 349 tfeu , which provides for a special status for the ors , be applied and complied with; ### b. whereas there are concerns about the long-term social , economic , environmental , territorial and cultural consequences on the ors of the covid-19 crisis and brexit , and whereas these crises legitimately reinforce the demand that article 349 tfeu , which provides for a special status for the ors , be applied and complied with;


### 4. calls on the commission services and the national and regional authorities to strike a balance between legitimate and essential controls on the use of eu funds and simplifying and making more flexible the administrative rules needed to optimise them , in order to encourage local initiatives; ### 4. calls on the commission services and the national and regional (local) authorities to strike a balance between legitimate and essential controls on the use of eu funds and simplifying and making more flexible the administrative rules needed to modernise and optimise them , in order to encourage local initiatives;


### 5. wishes to see an ‘or reflex’ systematised within the european institutions , focused on adopting a cross-cutting approach to the reality and challenges of the ors in all european public policies; ### 5. wishes to see an ‘or reflex’ systematised within the european institutions , focused on adopting a cross-cutting and integrated approach to the reality and challenges of the ors in all european public policies;


### 9. recommends that better use be made of the various platforms for exchange between administrations and proposes the creation of an ‘erasmus’ for administrations managing european funds in the ors , in order to ensure that best practices are shared so as to optimise the use of cohesion funds; ### 9. recommends that better use be made of the various platforms for exchange between administrations and proposes the creation of an ‘erasmus’ for administrations managing european funds in the ors , in order to ensure that best practices and examples are shared so as to optimise the use of cohesion funds;


### 13. calls on the commission and the member states to invest in the ors and to make the fight against poverty and unemployment the priorities of european solidarity , while investing in future projects focusing on innovation and reskilling; ### 13. calls on the commission and the member states to invest in the ors and to make the fight against poverty and unemployment the priorities of european solidarity , while investing in future projects focusing on social innovation sustainability , green jobs and reskilling;


### 14. reiterates the fact that in the ors the strength of youth is a major asset which is often insufficiently valued and that it should be a priority for building tangible solutions through the large-scale mobilisation of eu funding for education , training and support for young people; ### 14. reiterates the fact that in the ors the strength of youth is a major asset which is often insufficiently valued and that it should be a priority for building tangible solutions through the large-scale mobilisation of eu funding for education , training and support for young people , people with disabilities and other vulnerable groups;


### 15. stresses the need to encourage local initiatives by supporting vsmes , smes and the tourism , craft , building and construction , and digital sectors; ### 15. stresses the need to encourage local initiatives by supporting vsmes , smes and the tourism , craft , innovation , resilient building and construction , green jobs , and digital sectors;