### in order to ensure uniform conditions for the implementation of this regulation , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union should be delegated to the commission in respect of indicators as indicated in article 14 and 16 and annex ii . it is of particular importance that the commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level , and that those consultations be conducted in accordance with the principles laid down in the interinstitutional agreement on better law - making of 13 april 2016 . in particular , to ensure equal participation in the preparation of delegated acts , the european parliament and the council receive all documents at the same time as member states’ experts , and their experts systematically have access to meetings of commission expert groups dealing with the preparation of delegated acts . ### in order to supplement this regulation with a view to carrying out the programme and ensuring effective assessment of its progress towards the achievement of its objectives , the power to adopt acts in accordance with article 290 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union should be delegated to the commission in respect of work programmes pursuant to article 13 and indicators as indicated in articles 14 and 16 and annex ii . it is of particular importance that the commission carry out appropriate consultations during its preparatory work , including at expert level , and that those consultations be conducted in accordance with the principles laid down in the interinstitutional agreement on better law - making of 13 april 2016 . in particular , to ensure equal participation in the preparation of delegated acts , the european parliament and the council receive all documents at the same time as member states’ experts , and their experts systematically have access to meetings of commission expert groups dealing with the preparation of delegated acts .


### the programme may provide funding in any of the forms laid down in the financial regulation . ### the programme may provide funding , through action grants and multiannual operating grants , in any of the forms laid down in the financial regulation , including the use of lump sums , unit costs , flat rates and cascading grants . co - funding requirements shall be accepted in kind and may be waived in cases of limited complementary funding .


### the justice , rights and values fund and its two underlying funding programmes will focus primarily on people and entities , which contribute to make our common values , rights and rich diversity alive and vibrant . the ultimate objective is to nurture and sustain rights - based , equal , inclusive and democratic society . that includes a vibrant civil society , encouraging people ' s democratic , civic and social participation and fostering the rich diversity of european society , based on our common history and memory . article 11 of the treaty of the european union further specifies that the institutions shall , by appropriate means , give citizens and representative associations the opportunity to make known and publicly exchange their views in all areas of union action . ### the justice , rights and values fund and its two underlying funding programmes will focus on people and entities , which contribute to make our common values , rights and rich diversity alive and vibrant . the ultimate objective is to nurture and sustain rights - based , equal , open , inclusive and democratic society by funding activities that promote a vibrant , well - developed , self - reliant and empowered civil society , including advocacy for the promotion and protection of our common values , and that encourage people ' s democratic , civic and social participation and foster peace and the rich diversity of european society , based on our common values , history and memory . article 11 of the treaty of the european union requires that the institutions shall maintain an open , transparent and regular dialogue with civil society and shall , by appropriate means , give citizens and representative associations the opportunity to make known and publicly exchange their views in all areas of union action . the commission should maintain a regular dialogue with the beneficiaries of the programme as well as other relevant stakeholders by setting up a civil dialogue group .


### independent human rights bodies and civil society organisations play an essential role in promoting , safeguarding and raising awareness of the union’s common values under article 2 teu , and in contributing to the effective enjoyment of rights under union law , including the charter of fundamental rights of the eu . as reflected in the european parliament resolution of 18 april 2018 , adequate financial support is key to the development of a conducive and sustainable environment for civil society organisations to strengthen their role and perform their functions independently and effectively . complementing efforts at national level , eu funding should therefore contribute to support , empower and build the capacity of independent civil society organisations active in the promotion of human rights whose activities help the strategic enforcement of rights under eu law and the charter of fundamental rights of the eu , including through advocacy and watchdog activities , as well as to promote , safeguard and raise awareness of the union’s common values at national level . ### independent human rights bodies and civil society organisations play an essential role in promoting , safeguarding and raising awareness of the union’s common values under article 2 teu , and in contributing to the effective enjoyment of rights under union law , including the charter of fundamental rights of the eu . as reflected in the european parliament resolution of 19 april 2018 , an increase in funding and adequate financial support is key to the development of a conducive and sustainable environment for civil society organisations to strengthen their role and perform their functions independently and effectively . complementing efforts at national level , eu funding should therefore contribute to support , empower and build , including through adequate core funding and simplified cost options , financial rules and procedures , the capacity of independent civil society organisations active in the promotion of human rights whose activities help the strategic enforcement of rights under eu law and the charter of fundamental rights of the eu , including through advocacy and watchdog activities , as well as to promote , safeguard and raise awareness of the union’s common values at national level .


### the work programme shall be adopted by the commission by means of an implementing act . that implementing act shall be adopted in accordance with the advisory procedure referred to in article 19 . ### the commission is empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 16 to supplement this regulation by establishing the appropriate work programme .


### citizens should also be more aware of their rights deriving from citizenship of the union , and should feel at ease about living , travelling , studying , working and volunteering in another member state , and should feel able to enjoy and exercise all their citizenship rights , place their trust in equal access , full enforceability and protection of their rights without any discrimination , no matter where in the union they happen to be . civil society needs to be supported for the promotion , safeguarding and raising awareness of eu common values under article 2 teu and in contributing to the effective enjoyment of rights under union law . ### citizens should also be more aware of their rights deriving from citizenship of the union , and should feel at ease about living , travelling , studying , working and volunteering in another member state , and should feel able to enjoy and exercise all their citizenship rights , place their trust in equal access , full enforceability and protection of their rights without any discrimination , no matter where in the union they happen to be . civil society needs to be strengthened at all levels for the promotion , safeguarding and raising awareness of eu common values under article 2 teu and in contributing to the effective enjoyment of rights under union law .


### in order to ensure efficient allocation of funds from the general budget of the union , it is necessary to ensure the european added value of all actions carried out , their complementarity to member states’ actions , while consistency , complementarity and synergies shall be sought with funding programmes supporting policy areas with close links to each other , in particular within the justice , rights and values fund — and thus with the justice programme — as well as with creative europe programme , and erasmus + to realise the potential of cultural crossovers in the fields of culture , media , arts , education and creativity . it is necessary to create synergies with other european funding programmes , in particular in the fields of employment , internal market , enterprise , youth , health , citizenship , justice , migration , security , research , innovation , technology , industry , cohesion , tourism , external relations , trade and development . ### in order to ensure efficient allocation of funds from the general budget of the union , it is necessary to ensure the european added value of all actions carried out , bearing in mind the particular union added value inherent in any action , including actions carried out at local , regional , national and transnational level , directed at promoting and safeguarding our common values as enshrined in article 2 teu , their complementarity to member states’ actions , where actions at member state level are present , while consistency , complementarity and synergies shall be sought with funding programmes supporting policy areas with close links to each other , in particular within the justice , rights and values fund — and thus with the justice programme — as well as with creative europe programme , and erasmus + to realise the potential of cultural crossovers in the fields of culture , media , arts , education and creativity . it is necessary to create synergies with other european funding programmes , in particular in the fields of employment , internal market , enterprise , youth , health , citizenship , justice , migration , security , research , innovation , technology , industry , cohesion , tourism , external relations , trade , development and climate .


### preventing and combating inequalities and discrimination on grounds of sex , racial or ethnic origin , religion or belief , disability , age or sexual orientation , and supporting comprehensive policies to promote gender equality and anti - discrimination and their mainstreaming as well policies to combat racism and all forms of intolerance ; ### preventing and combating inequalities and discrimination on grounds of sex , racial , social or ethnic origin , religion or belief , disability , age , language or sexual orientation , and supporting comprehensive policies to promote gender equality and anti - discrimination and their mainstreaming as well policies to combat racism and all forms of intolerance ;


### remembrance activities and critical reflection on europe’s historical memory are necessary to make citizens aware of the common history , as the foundation for a common future , moral purpose and shared values . the relevance of historical , cultural and intercultural aspects should also be taken into account , as well as the links between remembrance and the creation of a european identity and sense of belonging together . ### remembrance activities and critical reflection on europe’s historical memory are necessary to make citizens aware of the common history and core values , as the foundation for a common future , moral purpose and shared values . the relevance of historical , cultural and intercultural aspects should also be taken into account , as well as the links between remembrance and the creation of a european identity based on diversity , solidarity and sense of belonging together .


### the types of financing and the methods of implementation under this regulation should be chosen on the basis of their ability to achieve the specific objectives of the actions and to deliver results , taking into account , in particular , the costs of controls , the administrative burden , and the expected risk of non - compliance . this should include consideration of the use of lump sums , flat rates and unit costs , as well as financing not linked to costs as referred to in article 125 of the financial regulation . in accordance with the financial regulation , regulation no 883 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council20 council regulation no 2988 / 9521 council regulation no 2185 / 9622 and council regulation 2017 / 193923 the financial interests of the union are to be protected through proportionate measures , including the prevention , detection , correction and investigation of irregularities and fraud , the recovery of funds lost , wrongly paid or incorrectly used and , where appropriate , the imposition of administrative sanctions . in particular , in accordance with regulation no 883 / 2013 and regulation no 2185 / 96 the european anti - fraud office may carry out administrative investigations , including on - the - spot checks and inspections , with a view to establishing whether there has been fraud , corruption or any other illegal activity affecting the financial interests of the union . in accordance with regulation 2017 / 1939 , the european public prosecutor’s office may investigate and prosecute fraud and other criminal offences affecting the financial interests of the union as provided for in directive 2017 / 1371 of the european parliament and of the council24 . in accordance with the financial regulation , any person or entity receiving union funds is to fully cooperate in the protection of the union’s financial interests , to grant the necessary rights and access to the commission , olaf , the eppo and the european court of auditors and to ensure that any third parties involved in the implementation of union funds grant equivalent rights . __________________ 20 regulation no 883 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 11 september 2013 concerning investigations conducted by the european anti - fraud office and repealing regulation no 1073 / 1999 of the european parliament and of the council and council regulation no 1074 / 1999 , no 2988 / 95 of 18 december 1995 on the protection of the european communities financial interests . 22 council regulation no 2185 / 96 of 11 november 1996 concerning on - the - spot checks and inspections carried out by the commission in order to protect the european communities’ financial interests against fraud and other irregularities . 23 council regulation 2017 / 1939 of 12 october 2017 implementing enhanced cooperation on the establishment of the european public prosecutor’s office . 24 directive 2017 / 1371 of the european parliament and of the council of 5 july 2017 on the fight against fraud to the union’s financial interests by means of criminal law . ### the types of financing and the methods of implementation under this regulation should be chosen on the basis of their ability to achieve the specific objectives of the actions and to deliver results , taking into account , in particular , the costs of controls , the administrative burden , the size and capacity of relevant stakeholders and targeted beneficiaries , and the expected risk of non - compliance . this should include consideration of the use of lump sums , flat rates , unit costs and cascading grants , as well as co - funding criteria which take into account volunteer work and financing not linked to costs as referred to in article 125 of the financial regulation . co - funding requirements should be accepted in kind and may be waived in cases of limited complementary funding . in accordance with the financial regulation , regulation no 883 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council20 council regulation no 2988 / 9521 council regulation no 2185 / 9622 and council regulation 2017 / 193923 the financial interests of the union are to be protected through proportionate measures , including the prevention , detection , correction and investigation of irregularities and fraud , the recovery of funds lost , wrongly paid or incorrectly used and , where appropriate , the imposition of administrative sanctions . in particular , in accordance with regulation no 883 / 2013 and regulation no 2185 / 96 the european anti - fraud office may carry out administrative investigations , including on - the - spot checks and inspections , with a view to establishing whether there has been fraud , corruption or any other illegal activity affecting the financial interests of the union . in accordance with regulation 2017 / 1939 , the european public prosecutor’s office may investigate and prosecute fraud and other criminal offences affecting the financial interests of the union as provided for in directive 2017 / 1371 of the european parliament and of the council24 . in accordance with the financial regulation , any person or entity receiving union funds is to fully cooperate in the protection of the union’s financial interests , to grant the necessary rights and access to the commission , olaf , the eppo and the european court of auditors and to ensure that any third parties involved in the implementation of union funds grant equivalent rights . __________________ 20 regulation no 883 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 11 september 2013 concerning investigations conducted by the european anti - fraud office and repealing regulation no 1073 / 1999 of the european parliament and of the council and council regulation no 1074 / 1999 , no 2988 / 95 of 18 december 1995 on the protection of the european communities financial interests . 22 council regulation no 2185 / 96 of 11 november 1996 concerning on - the - spot checks and inspections carried out by the commission in order to protect the european communities’ financial interests against fraud and other irregularities . 23 council regulation 2017 / 1939 of 12 october 2017 implementing enhanced cooperation on the establishment of the european public prosecutor’s office . 24 directive 2017 / 1371 of the european parliament and of the council of 5 july 2017 on the fight against fraud to the union’s financial interests by means of criminal law .


### the power to adopt delegated acts referred to in article 14 shall be conferred on the commission until 31 december 2027 . ### the power to adopt delegated acts referred to in articles 13 and 14 shall be conferred on the commission until 31 december 2027 .


### the delegation of power referred to in article 14 may be revoked at any time by the european parliament or by the council . a decision to revoke shall put an end to the delegation of power specified in that decision . it shall take effect the day following the publication of the decision in the official journal of the european union or at a later date specified therein . it shall not affect the validity of any delegated acts already in force . ### the delegation of power referred to in articles 13 and 14 may be revoked at any time by the european parliament or by the council . a decision to revoke shall put an end to the delegation of power specified in that decision . it shall take effect the day following the publication of the decision in the official journal of the european union or at a later date specified therein . it shall not affect the validity of any delegated acts already in force .


### attitudinal and environmental barriers as well as lack of accessibility hinder the full and effective participation of people with disabilities in society , on an equal basis with others . people with disabilities are faced with barriers to , among other things , access the labour market , benefit from an inclusive and quality education , avoid poverty and social exclusion , enjoy access to cultural initiatives and media , or use their political rights . as a party to the united nations convention on the rights of persons with disabilities , the union and all its member states have committed to promote , protect and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by all persons with disabilities . the provisions of the uncrpd have become an integral part of the union legal order . ### attitudinal and environmental barriers as well as lack of accessibility hinder the full and effective participation of persons with disabilities in society , on an equal basis with others . persons with disabilities , which include those who have long - term physical , mental , intellectual or sensory impairments , are faced with barriers to , among other things , access the labour market , benefit from an inclusive and quality education , avoid poverty and social exclusion , enjoy access to cultural initiatives and media , or use their political rights . as a party to the united nations convention on the rights of persons with disabilities , the union and all its member states have committed to promote , protect and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by all persons with disabilities . the provisions of the uncrpd have become an integral part of the union legal order . in this regard the programme should pay special attention to awareness raising activities to the challenges people with disability face in participating fully in society and enjoying their rights as equal citizens .


### the right to respect for his or her private and family life , home and communications is a fundamental right enshrined in article 7 of the charter of fundamental rights . the protection of personal data is a fundamental right enshrined in article 8 of the charter of fundamental rights and article 16 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union . compliance with the rules for the protection of personal data is subject to the control by independent supervisory authorities . the unions’ legal framework , in particular regulation 2016 / 679 of the european parliament and of the council12 and directive 2016 / 680 of the european parliament and of the council13 lay down provisions to ensure that the right to protection of personal data is effectively protected . these legal instruments entrust the national data protection supervisory authorities with the task of promoting public awareness and understanding of the risks , rules , safeguards and rights in relation to the processing of personal data . the union should be able to conduct awareness - raising activities , carry out studies and other relevant activities given the importance of the right to the protection of personal data in times of rapid technological developments . __________________ 12 oj l 119 , 4 . 5 . 2016 , p . 1 - 88 . 13 oj l 119 , 4 . 5 . 2016 , p . 89 - 131 . ### the right to respect for his or her private and family life , home and communications is a fundamental right enshrined in article 7 of the charter of fundamental rights . the protection of personal data is a fundamental right enshrined in article 8 of the charter of fundamental rights and article 16 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union . compliance with the rules for the protection of personal data is subject to the control by independent supervisory authorities . the unions’ legal framework , in particular regulation 2016 / 679 of the european parliament and of the council12 and directive 2016 / 680 of the european parliament and of the council13 lay down provisions to ensure that the right to protection of personal data is effectively protected . these legal instruments entrust the national data protection supervisory authorities with the task of promoting public awareness and understanding of the risks , rules , safeguards and rights in relation to the processing of personal data . the union should be able to conduct awareness - raising activities , support civil society organisations in advocating for data protection in line with union standards , carry out studies and other relevant activities given the importance of the right to the protection of personal data in times of rapid technological developments . __________________ 12 oj l 119 , 4 . 5 . 2016 , p . 1 - 88 . 13 oj l 119 , 4 . 5 . 2016 , p . 89 - 131 .


### within the specific objective set out in point of article 2 , the programme shall focus on : ### within the general objective set out in article 2 and within the specific objective set out in point of article 2 , the programme shall focus on :


### the rights and values programme should allow developing synergies to tackle the challenges that are common to the promotion and protection of values and to reach a critical dimension to have concrete results in the field . that should be achieved by building on the positive experience of the predecessor programmes . this will enable to fully exploit the potential of synergies , to more effectively support the policy areas covered and to increase their potential to reach people . to be effective , the programme should take into account the specific nature of the different policies , their different target groups and their particular needs through tailor - made approaches . ### the programme should allow developing synergies to tackle the challenges that are common to the promotion and protection of our common values and to reach a critical dimension to have concrete results in the field . that should be achieved by building on and further developing the positive experience of the predecessor programmes . this will enable to fully exploit the potential of synergies , to more effectively support the policy areas covered and to increase their potential to reach people . to be effective , the programme should take into account the specific nature of the different policies , their different target groups and their particular needs through tailor - made approaches .


### the evaluation committee may be composed of external experts . ### the evaluation committee may be composed of external experts . the composition of the evaluation committee shall ensure gender balance .


### regulation no [ the new fr ] applies to this programme . it lays down rules on the implementation of the union budget , including the rules on grants , prizes , procurement , indirect implementation , financial assistance , financial instruments and budgetary guarantees . ### regulation no [ the new fr ] applies to this programme . it lays down rules on the implementation of the union budget , including the rules on grants , prizes , procurement , indirect implementation , financial assistance , financial instruments and budgetary guarantees and demands full transparency on the use of resources , sound financial management and prudent use of resources . in particular , rules concerning the possibility for local , regional , national and transnational civil society organisations to be funded through multiannual operating grants , cascading grants , provisions ensuring fast and flexible grant - making procedures , such as a two - step - application procedure , user - friendly applications and reporting procedures should be operationalised and further strengthened as part of the implementation of this programme


### the programme shall be implemented by work programmes referred to in article 110 of financial regulation . ### the programme shall be carried out by work programmes referred to in article 110 of financial regulation .


### it lays down the objectives of the programme , the budget for the period 2021 – 2027 , the forms of union funding and the rules for providing such funding . ### it lays down the objectives and scope of the programme , the budget for the period 2021 – 2027 , the forms of union funding and the conditions for providing such funding .


### the general objective of the programme is to protect and promote rights and values as enshrined in the eu treaties , including by supporting civil society organisations , in order to sustain open , democratic and inclusive societies . ### the general objective of the programme is to protect and promote rights and values as enshrined in the treaties , including democracy , the rule of law and fundamental rights as enshrined in article 2 teu , in particular by supporting and building the capacity of civil society organisations at local , regional , national and transnational level , in order to sustain open , rights - based , democratic , equal and inclusive societies .


### non - discrimination is a fundamental principle of the union . article 19 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union provides for action to combat discrimination based on sex , racial or ethnic origin , religion or belief , disability , age or sexual orientation . non - discrimination is also enshrined in article 21 of the charter . the specific features of the diverse forms of discrimination should be taken into account and appropriate action should be developed in parallel to prevent and combat discrimination on one or more grounds . the programme should support actions to prevent and combat discrimination , racism , xenophobia , anti - semitism , anti - muslim hatred and other forms of intolerance . in that context , particular attention should also be devoted to preventing and combating all forms of violence , hatred , segregation and stigmatisation , as well as combating bullying , harassment and intolerant treatment . the programme should be implemented in a mutually reinforcing manner with other union activities that have the same objectives , in particular with those referred to in the commission communication of 5 april 2011 entitled ‘ an eu framework for national roma integration strategies up to 202010 ’ and in the council recommendation of 09 december 2013 on effective roma integration measures in the member states11 . _________________________________ 11oj c 378 , 24 . 12 . 2013 , p . 1 . ### non - discrimination is a fundamental principle of the union . article 19 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union provides for action to combat discrimination based on sex , racial or ethnic origin , religion or belief , disability , age or sexual orientation . non - discrimination is also enshrined in article 21 of the charter which states that any discrimination based on any ground such as sex , race , colour , ethnic or social origin , genetic features , language , religion or belief , political or any other opinion , membership of a national minority , property , birth , disability , age or sexual orientation shall be prohibited , and that within the scope of application of the treaties and without prejudice to those treaties or the special provisions contained therein , discrimination on grounds of nationality should be prohibited , while the whole chapter iii of the charter is dedicated to equality . equality and anti - discrimination are not only legal questions but fundamental challenges for society , therefore , the specific features of the diverse forms of discrimination should be taken into account and appropriate action should be developed in parallel to prevent and combat discrimination on one or more grounds as well as intersectional discrimination .


### attitudinal and environmental barriers as well as lack of accessibility hinder the full and effective participation of people with disabilities in society , on an equal basis with others . people with disabilities are faced with barriers to , among other things , access the labour market , benefit from an inclusive and quality education , avoid poverty and social exclusion , enjoy access to cultural initiatives and media , or use their political rights . as a party to the united nations convention on the rights of persons with disabilities , the union and all its member states have committed to promote , protect and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by all persons with disabilities . the provisions of the uncrpd have become an integral part of the union legal order . ### attitudinal and environmental barriers as well as lack of accessibility hinder the full and effective participation of persons with disabilities in society , on an equal basis with others . persons with disabilities , which include those who have long - term physical , mental , intellectual or sensory impairments , are faced with barriers to , among other things , access the labour market , benefit from an inclusive and quality education , avoid poverty and social exclusion , enjoy access to cultural initiatives and media , or use their political rights . as a party to the united nations convention on the rights of persons with disabilities , the union and all its member states have committed to promote , protect and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by all persons with disabilities . the provisions of the uncrpd have become an integral part of the union legal order .


### attitudinal and environmental barriers as well as lack of accessibility hinder the full and effective participation of people with disabilities in society , on an equal basis with others . people with disabilities are faced with barriers to , among other things , access the labour market , benefit from an inclusive and quality education , avoid poverty and social exclusion , enjoy access to cultural initiatives and media , or use their political rights . as a party to the united nations convention on the rights of persons with disabilities , the union and all its member states have committed to promote , protect and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by all persons with disabilities . the provisions of the uncrpd have become an integral part of the union legal order . ### attitudinal and environmental barriers as well as lack of accessibility hinder the full and effective participation of persons with disabilities in society , on an equal basis with others . persons with disabilities , which include those who have long - term physical , mental , intellectual or sensory impairments , are faced with barriers to , among other things , access the labour market , benefit from an inclusive and quality education , avoid poverty and social exclusion , enjoy access to cultural initiatives and media , or use their political rights . as a party to the united nations convention on the rights of persons with disabilities , the union and all its member states have committed to promote , protect and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by all persons with disabilities . the provisions of the uncrpd have become an integral part of the union legal order . in this regard the programme should pay special attention to awareness raising activities to the challenges people with disability face in participating fully in society and enjoying their rights as equal citizens


### as soon as it adopts a delegated act , the commission shall notify it simultaneously to the european parliament and to the council . ### as soon as it adopts a delegated act , the commission shall notify it simultaneously to the european parliament and to the council . based on the interinstitutional agreement of 13 april 2016 on better law - making , citizens and other stakeholders may express their opinion on the draft text of a delegated act during a four - week period . the european economic and social committee and the committee of regions shall be consulted on the draft text , based on the experience of ngos and local and regional authorities with respect to the implementation of the programme .


### the justice , rights and values fund and its two underlying funding programmes will focus primarily on people and entities , which contribute to make our common values , rights and rich diversity alive and vibrant . the ultimate objective is to nurture and sustain rights - based , equal , inclusive and democratic society . that includes a vibrant civil society , encouraging people ' s democratic , civic and social participation and fostering the rich diversity of european society , based on our common history and memory . article 11 of the treaty of the european union further specifies that the institutions shall , by appropriate means , give citizens and representative associations the opportunity to make known and publicly exchange their views in all areas of union action . ### the justice , rights and values fund and its two underlying funding programmes will focus on people and entities , which contribute to make our common values , rights and rich diversity alive and vibrant . the ultimate objective is to nurture and sustain rights - based , equal , open , inclusive and democratic society by funding activities that promote a vibrant , well - developed , self - reliant and empowered civil society , including advocacy for the promotion and protection of our common values , and that encourage people ' s democratic , civic and social participation and foster peace and the rich diversity of european society , based on our common values , history and memory . article 11 of the treaty of the european union requires that the institutions shall maintain an open , transparent and regular dialogue with civil society and shall , by appropriate means , give citizens and representative associations the opportunity to make known and publicly exchange their views in all areas of union action . the commission should maintain a regular dialogue with the beneficiaries of the programme as well as other relevant stakeholders by setting up a civil dialogue group .


### in order to ensure efficient allocation of funds from the general budget of the union , it is necessary to ensure the european added value of all actions carried out , their complementarity to member states’ actions , while consistency , complementarity and synergies shall be sought with funding programmes supporting policy areas with close links to each other , in particular within the justice , rights and values fund — and thus with the justice programme — as well as with creative europe programme , and erasmus + to realise the potential of cultural crossovers in the fields of culture , media , arts , education and creativity . it is necessary to create synergies with other european funding programmes , in particular in the fields of employment , internal market , enterprise , youth , health , citizenship , justice , migration , security , research , innovation , technology , industry , cohesion , tourism , external relations , trade and development . ### in order to ensure efficient allocation of funds from the general budget of the union , it is necessary to ensure the european added value of all actions carried out , bearing in mind the particular union added value inherent in any action , including actions carried out at local , regional , national and transnational level , directed at promoting and safeguarding our common values as enshrined in article 2 teu , their complementarity to member states’ actions , where actions at member state level are present , while consistency , complementarity and synergies shall be sought with funding programmes supporting policy areas with close links to each other , in particular within the justice , rights and values fund — and thus with the justice programme — as well as with creative europe programme , and erasmus + to realise the potential of cultural crossovers in the fields of culture , media , arts , education and creativity . it is necessary to create synergies with other european funding programmes , in particular in the fields of employment , internal market , enterprise , youth , health , citizenship , justice , migration , security , research , innovation , technology , industry , cohesion , tourism , external relations , trade , development and climate .


### the general objective of the programme is to protect and promote rights and values as enshrined in the eu treaties , including by supporting civil society organisations , in order to sustain open , democratic and inclusive societies . ### the general&#160 ; objective of the programme is to protect and promote rights and values as&#160 ; enshrined in the treaties , including democracy , the rule of law and fundamental&#160 ; rights as enshrined in article 2 teu , in particular by supporting and&#160 ; building the capacity of civil society organisations at&#160 ; local , regional , national and transnational level , in order to&#160 ; sustain open , rights - based , democratic , equal and inclusive societies .


### the justice , rights and values fund and its two underlying funding programmes will focus primarily on people and entities , which contribute to make our common values , rights and rich diversity alive and vibrant . the ultimate objective is to nurture and sustain rights - based , equal , inclusive and democratic society . that includes a vibrant civil society , encouraging people ' s democratic , civic and social participation and fostering the rich diversity of european society , based on our common history and memory . article 11 of the treaty of the european union further specifies that the institutions shall , by appropriate means , give citizens and representative associations the opportunity to make known and publicly exchange their views in all areas of union action . ### the justice , rights and values fund and its two underlying funding programmes will focus on people and entities , which contribute to make our common values , rights and rich diversity alive and vibrant . the ultimate objective is to nurture and sustain a rights - based , equal , open , inclusive and democratic society by funding activities that promote a vibrant , well - developed , self - reliant and empowered civil society . such activities include advocacy for the promotion and protection of our common values , encouraging people ' s democratic , civic and social participation and fostering peace and the rich diversity of european society , based on our common values , history and memory . article 11 of the treaty of the european union requires that the institutions shall maintain an open , transparent and regular dialogue with civil society and shall , by appropriate means , give citizens and representative associations the opportunity to make known and publicly exchange their views in all areas of union action . the commission should maintain a regular dialogue with the beneficiaries of the programme as well as other relevant stakeholders by setting up a civil dialogue group .


### independent human rights bodies and civil society organisations play an essential role in promoting , safeguarding and raising awareness of the union’s common values under article 2 teu , and in contributing to the effective enjoyment of rights under union law , including the charter of fundamental rights of the eu . as reflected in the european parliament resolution of 18 april 2018 , adequate financial support is key to the development of a conducive and sustainable environment for civil society organisations to strengthen their role and perform their functions independently and effectively . complementing efforts at national level , eu funding should therefore contribute to support , empower and build the capacity of independent civil society organisations active in the promotion of human rights whose activities help the strategic enforcement of rights under eu law and the charter of fundamental rights of the eu , including through advocacy and watchdog activities , as well as to promote , safeguard and raise awareness of the union’s common values at national level . ### independent human rights bodies and civil society organisations play an essential role in promoting , safeguarding and raising awareness of the union’s common values under article 2 teu , and in contributing to the effective enjoyment of rights under union law , including the charter of fundamental rights of the eu . as reflected in the european parliament resolution of 19 april 2018 , an increase in funding and adequate financial support is key to the development of a conducive and sustainable environment for civil society organisations to strengthen their role and perform their functions independently and effectively . complementing efforts at national level , eu funding should therefore contribute to support , empower and build , including through adequate core funding and simplified cost options , financial rules and procedures , the capacity of independent civil society organisations active in the promotion of human rights whose activities help the strategic enforcement of rights under eu law and the charter of fundamental rights of the eu , including through advocacy and watchdog activities , as well as to promote , safeguard and raise awareness of the union’s common values at national level .


### before adopting a delegated act , the commission shall consult experts designated by each member state in accordance with the principles laid down in the interinstitutional agreement on better law - making of 13 april 2016 . ### before adopting a delegated act , the commission shall consult experts designated by each member state in accordance with the principles laid down in the interinstitutional agreement of 13 april 2016 on better law - making . the composition of the group of experts consulted shall ensure gender balance . when preparing and drawing up delegated acts , the commission shall ensure a timely and simultaneous transmission of all documents , including the draft acts , to the european parliament and the council at the same time as to member states ' experts . where they consider this necessary , the european parliament and the council may each send experts to meetings of the commission expert groups dealing with the preparation of delegated acts to which member states ' experts are invited . to that end , the european parliament and the council shall receive the planning for the following months and invitations for all experts meetings .


### actions contributing to the achievement of a specific objective specified in article 2 may receive funding under this regulation . in particular , activities listed in annex i shall be eligible for funding . ### actions contributing to the achievement of a general or specific objective specified in article 2 may receive funding under this regulation . in particular , activities listed in annex i shall be eligible for funding .


### the performance reporting system shall ensure that data for monitoring programme implementation and results are collected efficiently , effectively , and in a timely manner . to that end , proportionate reporting requirements shall be imposed on recipients of union funds and member states . ### the performance reporting system shall ensure that data for monitoring programme implementation and results are collected efficiently , effectively , and in a timely manner . to that end , proportionate and least burdensome reporting requirements shall be imposed on recipients of union funds and member states . in order to facilitate reporting requirements being met , the commission shall make available user - friendly formats and provide orientation and support programmes particularly targeted to civil society organisations , who may not always have the know - how and adequate resources and staff to meet reporting requirements .


### those rights and values must continue to be promoted and enforced and shared among the citizens and peoples and be at the heart of the eu project . therefore , a new justice , rights and values fund , comprising the rights and values and the justice programmes shall be created in the eu budget . at a time where european societies are confronted with extremism , radicalism and divisions , it is more important than ever to promote , strengthen and defend justice , rights and eu values : human rights , respect for human dignity , freedom , democracy , equality , the rule of law . this will have profound and direct implications for political , social , cultural and economic life in the eu . as part of the new fund , the justice programme will continue to support the further development of union area of justice and cross - border cooperation . the rights and values programme will bring together the 2014 - 2020 programme rights , equality and citizenship established by regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council8 and the europe for citizens programme established by council regulation no 390 / 20149 , . _________________ 8 regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 17 december 2013 establishing a rights , equality and citizenship programme for the period 2014 to 2020 9 council regulation no 390 / 2014 of 14 april 2014 establishing the ‘ europe for citizens’ programme for the period 2014 - 2020 ### those rights and values must continue to be cultivated , protected , promoted , enforced and shared among the citizens and peoples and be at the heart of the eu project , as the deterioration of those rights and values in any member state can have detrimental effects on the union as a whole . therefore , a new justice , rights and values fund , comprising the rights and values and the justice programmes shall be created in the eu budget . at a time where european societies are confronted with extremism , radicalism and divisions , it is more important than ever to promote , strengthen and defend justice , rights and eu values : human rights , respect for human dignity , freedom , democracy , equality , the rule of law . this will have profound and direct implications for political , social , cultural and economic life in the eu . as part of the new fund , the justice programme will continue to support the further development of union area of justice and cross - border cooperation . the rights and values programme will bring together the 2014 - 2020 programme rights , equality and citizenship established by regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council8 and the europe for citizens programme established by council regulation no 390 / 20149 , . _________________ 8 regulation no 1381 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council of 17 december 2013 establishing a rights , equality and citizenship programme for the period 2014 to 2020 9 council regulation no 390 / 2014 of 14 april 2014 establishing the ‘ europe for citizens’ programme for the period 2014 - 2020


### citizens should also be more aware of their rights deriving from citizenship of the union , and should feel at ease about living , travelling , studying , working and volunteering in another member state , and should feel able to enjoy and exercise all their citizenship rights , place their trust in equal access , full enforceability and protection of their rights without any discrimination , no matter where in the union they happen to be . civil society needs to be supported for the promotion , safeguarding and raising awareness of eu common values under article 2 teu and in contributing to the effective enjoyment of rights under union law . ### citizens should also be more aware of their rights deriving from citizenship of the union , and should feel at ease about living , travelling , studying , working and volunteering in another member state , and should feel able to enjoy and exercise all their citizenship rights , place their trust in equal access , full enforceability and protection of their rights without any discrimination , no matter where in the union they happen to be . civil society needs to be strengthened at all levels for the promotion , safeguarding and raising awareness of eu common values under article 2 teu and in contributing to the effective enjoyment of rights under union law .


### within the specific objective set out in point of article 2 , the programme shall focus on : ### within the general objective set out in article 2 and within the specific objective set out in point of article 2 , the programme shall focus on :


### preventing and combating inequalities and discrimination on grounds of sex , racial or ethnic origin , religion or belief , disability , age or sexual orientation , and supporting comprehensive policies to promote gender equality and anti - discrimination and their mainstreaming as well policies to combat racism and all forms of intolerance ; ### preventing&#160 ; and combating inequalities and discrimination on grounds of sex , racial , &#160 ; social or ethnic origin , religion or belief , disability , age , &#160 ; language or sexual orientation , and supporting comprehensive policies&#160 ; to promote gender equality and anti - discrimination and their mainstreaming as&#160 ; well policies to combat racism and all forms of intolerance ;


### regulation no [ the new fr ] applies to this programme . it lays down rules on the implementation of the union budget , including the rules on grants , prizes , procurement , indirect implementation , financial assistance , financial instruments and budgetary guarantees . ### regulation no [ the new fr ] applies to this programme . it lays down rules on the implementation of the union budget , including the rules on grants , prizes , procurement , indirect implementation , financial assistance , financial instruments and budgetary guarantees and demands full transparency on the use of resources , sound financial management and prudent use of resources . in particular , rules concerning the possibility for local , regional , national and transnational civil society organisations to be funded through multiannual operating grants , cascading grants , provisions ensuring fast and flexible grant - making procedures , such as a two - step - application procedure , user - friendly applications and reporting procedures should be operationalised and further strengthened as part of the implementation of this programme


### the general objective of the programme shall be to contribute to institutional , administrative and growth - sustaining structural reforms in the member states by providing support to national authorities for measures aimed at reforming and strengthening institutions , governance , public administration , and economic and social sectors in response to economic and social challenges , with a view to enhancing cohesion , competitiveness , productivity , sustainable growth , job creation , and investment , which will also prepare for participation in the euro area , in particular in the context of economic governance processes , including through assistance for the efficient , effective and transparent use of the union funds . ; ### the general objective of the programme shall be to contribute to institutional , administrative and growth - sustaining and inclusive structural reforms in the member states by providing support to national authorities for measures aimed at reforming and strengthening institutions , governance , public administration , and economic and social sectors in response to economic and social challenges , with a view to enhancing cohesion , competitiveness , productivity , sustainable and inclusive growth , job creation , investment , and convergence in and outside the euro area , in particular in the context of economic governance processes , including through assistance for the efficient , effective and transparent use of the union funds . ;


### the structural reform support programme was established with the objective of strengthening the capacity of member states to prepare and implement growth - sustaining administrative and structural reforms , including through assistance for the efficient and effective use of the union funds . support under the programme is provided by the commission , upon request by a member state , and can cover a wide range of policy areas . developing resilient economies built on strong economic and social structures , which allow member states to efficiently absorb shocks and swiftly recover from them , contributes to economic and social cohesion . the implementation of institutional , administrative and growth - sustaining structural reforms is an appropriate tool for achieving such a development . ### the structural reform support programme was established with the objective of strengthening the capacity of member states to prepare and implement growth - sustaining administrative and inclusive structural reforms , including through assistance for the efficient and effective use of the union funds and to develop comprehensive and sustainable inclusion policies . support under the programme is provided by the commission , upon request by a member state , and can cover a wide range of policy areas . developing resilient economies built on strong economic and social structures , which allow member states to efficiently absorb shocks and swiftly recover from them , contributes to economic and social cohesion . the implementation of institutional , administrative and sustainable structural reforms is an appropriate tool for achieving such a development . it is important that structural reforms are backed by democratic support , making the involvement of partners from local and regional authorities , economic and social partners and representatives of civil society unavoidable .


### where poultry are kept indoors due to restrictions or obligations imposed on the basis of union legislation , they shall permanently have access to sufficient quantities of roughage and suitable material in order to meet their ethological needs . ### where poultry are kept indoors , including due to restrictions imposed due to bad weather conditions or obligations imposed on the basis of union legislation , they shall have access to a veranda as well as permanently have access to sufficient quantities of roughage and suitable material in order to meet their ethological needs .


### as a matter of principle , the general production rules of this regulation should include a prohibition on the use of ionising radiation and genetically modified organisms and products produced from or by gmos . since consumers are more and more concerned about environmental impacts of food processing and transportation , organic operators other than farmers and operators producing seaweed or aquaculture animals should be required to manage their environmental performance according to a harmonised system . with the objective of minimising the regulatory burden of micro - enterprises as defined in commission recommendation 2003 / 361 / ec27 involved in organic production , it is appropriate to exempt them from this requirement . in order to ensure the correct application of the general production rules , the power to adopt certain acts should be delegated to the commission in respect of establishing the criteria to which the environmental management system is to correspond . __________________ 27 commission recommendation 2003 / 361 / ec of 6 may 2003 concerning the definition of micro , small and medium - sized enterprises . ### as a matter of principle , the general production rules of this regulation should include a prohibition on the use of ionising radiation and genetically modified organisms and products produced from or by gmos and last - line antibiotics for the treatment of livestock ailments . since consumers are more and more concerned about environmental impacts of food processing and transportation , organic operators other than farmers and operators producing seaweed or aquaculture animals should be required to manage their environmental performance according to a harmonised system . with the objective of minimising the regulatory burden of micro - enterprises as defined in commission recommendation 2003 / 361 / ec27 involved in organic production , it is appropriate to exempt them from this requirement . in order to ensure the correct application of the general production rules , the power to adopt certain acts should be delegated to the commission in respect of establishing the criteria to which the environmental management system is to correspond . __________________ 27 commission recommendation 2003 / 361 / ec of 6 may 2003 concerning the definition of micro , small and medium - sized enterprises .


### exercise areas shall permit dunging and rooting by porcine animals . for the purposes of rooting different substrates can be used . ### exercise areas shall permit dunging and rooting by porcine animals . for the purposes of rooting different additional manipulable material can be used , but access to soil and straw for rooting is required . to allow the expression of appropriate exploratory behaviour , substrates should be chewable , edible , destructible , kept clean and renewed regularly . indestructible manipulation materials such as toys , balls , and chains , can be used only as a supplement .


### organic operators other than micro - enterprises , farmers and operators producing seaweed or aquaculture animals , shall put in place an environmental management system with a view to improving their environmental performance . ### organic operators other than micro - enterprises , farmers , beekeepers , and operators producing seaweed or aquaculture animals , shall put in place an environmental management system with a view to improving their environmental performance , including methods for identifying and measuring the direct environmental aspects of the organisation ' s operation , which are based on the core indicators outlined in annex iv of regulation no 1221 / 20091a . the establishment of annual targets for the continuous improvement of the environmental performance and the implementation of a documentation and reporting system in this regard are supervised within the organic certification process . ___________________________ 1a regulation no 1221 / 2009 of the european parliament and of the council of 25 november 2009 on the voluntary participation by organisations in a community eco - management and audit scheme , repealing regulation no 761 / 2001 and commission decisions 2001 / 681 / ec and 2006 / 193 / ec


### 7 . 7 . duration of transport of livestock shall be minimised . ### 7 . 7 . the duration of transport of livestock shall be minimised to a maximum of 8 hours for both mammals and poultry , in both organic and non - organic agriculture . to this end , local slaughterhouses need to be supported . special attention shall be paid when transporting fragile or cull animals .


### organic production is based on the general principle of restriction of the use of external inputs . farmers are required to take measures to prevent the risk of contamination by non - authorised products or substances . despite such measures , there may be instances where farmers are prevented from marketing their agricultural products as organic due to the unintentional presence of non - authorised products or substances . it is therefore appropriate to provide for the possibility whereby member states may , in accordance with article 42 of the treaty , be authorised by the commission to grant national payments to compensate for the losses incurred in such instances . member states may also use the instruments of the common agricultural policy to cover totally or partially such losses . ### member states should ensure that losses organic farmers incur due to unintended contaminations are adequately covered . where the origin of contamination can be traced , member states are to apply the polluter - pays principle .


### the authorisation of the use of chemically synthesised products or substances shall be strictly limited to cases where the use of external inputs referred to in article 4 would contribute to unacceptable environmental impacts . ### the authorisation of products and substances from other categories as mentioned under article 4 for application as mentioned in paragraph 1 of this article shall be strictly limited to cases where the use of external inputs referred to in article 4 would contribute to unacceptable impacts to the environment , animal or human health or product quality .


### 7 . 7 . duration of transport of livestock shall be minimised . ### 7 . 7 . the duration of transport of livestock shall be minimised to a maximum of 8 hours for mammals and 4 hours for poultry . special attention shall be paid when transporting fragile or cull animals .


### in view of the above , it is necessary to establish a european cybersecurity certification framework laying down the main horizontal requirements for european cybersecurity certification schemes to be developed and allowing certificates for ict products and services to be recognised and used in all member states . the european framework should have a twofold purpose : on the one hand , it should help increase trust in ict products and services that have been certified according to such schemes . on the other hand , it should avoid the multiplication of conflicting or overlapping national cybersecurity certifications and thus reduce costs for undertakings operating in the digital single market . the schemes should be non - discriminatory and based on international and / or union standards , unless those standards are ineffective or inappropriate to fulfil the eu’s legitimate objectives in that regard . ### in view of the above , it is necessary to establish a harmonised european it security certification framework laying down the main horizontal requirements for european it security certification schemes to be developed and allowing certificates for ict products and services to be recognised and used in all member states . the european framework should have a twofold purpose : on the one hand , it should help increase trust in ict products and services that have been certified according to such schemes . on the other hand , it should avoid the multiplication of conflicting or overlapping national it security certifications and thus reduce costs for undertakings operating in the digital single market . the schemes should be non - discriminatory and based on international and / or union standards , unless those standards are ineffective or inappropriate to fulfil the eu’s legitimate objectives in that regard .


### the agency should encourage member states and service providers to raise their general security standards so that all internet users can take the necessary steps to ensure their own personal cybersecurity . in particular , service providers and product manufacturers should withdraw or recycle products and services that do not meet cybersecurity standards . in cooperation with competent authorities , enisa may disseminate information regarding the level of cybersecurity of the products and services offered in the internal market , and issue warnings targeting providers and manufacturers and requiring them to improve the security , including cybersecurity , of their products and services . ### the agency should encourage member states and service providers to raise their general security standards so that all internet users can take the necessary steps to ensure their own personal it security and refrain from allowing the sales or use of devices that do not meet minimum security conditions . in particular , service providers and product manufacturers should withdraw or recycle products and services that do not meet it security standards . in cooperation with competent authorities , enisa may disseminate information regarding the level of it security of the products and services offered in the internal market , and issue warnings targeting providers and manufacturers and requiring them to improve the security , including it security , of their products and services .


### the agency shall undertake the tasks assigned to it by this regulation for the purpose of contributing to a high level of cybersecurity within the union . ### the agency shall undertake the tasks assigned to it by this regulation for the purpose of achieving a high level of it security within the union .


### the executive board shall be composed of five members appointed from among the members of the management board amongst whom the chairperson of the management board , who may also chair the executive board , and one of the representatives of the commission . the executive director shall take part in the meetings of the executive board , but shall not have the right to vote . ### the executive board shall be composed of five members appointed from among the members of the management board amongst whom the chairperson of the management board , who may also chair the executive board , and one of the representatives of the commission . the executive director shall take part in the meetings of the executive board , but shall not have the right to vote . the appointments shall aim to achieve a balanced representation of genders on the executive board .


### raise awareness of the public about cybersecurity risks , and provide guidance on good practices for individual users aimed at citizens and organisations ; ### raise awareness of the public about cybersecurity risks , and provide guidance on good practices for users aimed at citizens and organisations and promote the adoption of preventive strong it security measures and reliable data protection and privacy ;


### organise , in cooperation with the member states and union institutions , bodies , offices and agencies regular outreach campaigns to increase cybersecurity and its visibility in the union . ### organise , in cooperation with the member states and union institutions , bodies , offices , agencies and other relevant stakeholders , regular outreach campaigns to increase it security and its visibility in the union ;


### the agency should encourage member states and service providers to raise their general security standards so that all internet users can take the necessary steps to ensure their own personal cybersecurity . in particular , service providers and product manufacturers should withdraw or recycle products and services that do not meet cybersecurity standards . in cooperation with competent authorities , enisa may disseminate information regarding the level of cybersecurity of the products and services offered in the internal market , and issue warnings targeting providers and manufacturers and requiring them to improve the security , including cybersecurity , of their products and services . ### the agency should encourage member states , hardware and software manufacturers and ict and on - line service providers to raise their general security standards so that all internet users can take the necessary steps to ensure their own personal it security . in particular , service providers and product manufacturers should withdraw or recycle products and services that do not meet it security standards . in cooperation with competent authorities , enisa may disseminate information regarding the level of it security of the products and services offered in the internal market , and issue warnings targeting providers and manufacturers and requiring them to improve the it security of their products and services . the agency should work with stakeholders to develop a union - wide approach to the responsible disclosure of vulnerabilities and should promote best practice in this area .


### following a request from the commission , enisa shall prepare a candidate european cybersecurity certification scheme which meets the requirements set out in articles 45 , 46 and 47 of this regulation . member states or the european cybersecurity certification group established under article 53 may propose the preparation of a candidate european cybersecurity certification scheme to the commission . ### following a request from the commission , enisa shall prepare a candidate european cybersecurity certification scheme which meets the requirements set out in articles 45 , 46 and 47 of this regulation . the request from the commission to prepare a candidate european cybersecurity certification scheme should be justified with one or more of the following reasons : existing cybersecurity certification schemes are fragmenting the internal market ; there is a current or foreseen need to support union ' s legislation ; there is a consensual request from member states , the european cybersecurity certification group established under article 53 or the permanent stakeholder group established under article 20 ; the european commission shall make sure that the request coming from a member state is reflective of a balanced participation of the interested parties concerned , such as industries , including smes , trade unions , civil society and consumers organisation . in this light , member states shall ensure appropriate measures to enable the parties to be consulted at national level on the process of preparing and monitoring certification schemes


### the agency shall promote cooperation and coordination at union level among member states , union institutions , agencies and bodies , and relevant stakeholders , including the private sector , on matters related to cybersecurity . ### the agency shall promote cooperation and coordination at union level among member states , union institutions , agencies and bodies , and relevant stakeholders , including the private sector , consumer organizations and other civil society organisations , on matters related to it security .


### recourse to european cybersecurity certification should remain voluntary , unless otherwise provided in union or national legislation . however , with a view to achieving the objectives of this regulation and avoiding the fragmentation of the internal market , national cybersecurity certification schemes or procedures for the ict products and services covered by a european cybersecurity certification scheme should cease to produce effects from the date established by the commission by means of the implementing act . moreover , member states should not introduce new national certification schemes providing cybersecurity certification schemes for ict products and services already covered by an existing european cybersecurity certification scheme . ### recourse to european cybersecurity certification should remain voluntary , unless otherwise provided in union or national legislation . however , as the existence of baseline it security requirements is of utmost importance for the consumers as well as for the security of networks , some situations needs to be treated in a harmonised and mandatory way . solutions need to be implemented on all consumer devices and services in order to tackle the challenges of an increasingly connected world . such minimal requirements could include authentication , security of connections and patches for the discovered vulnerabilities . with a view to achieving the objectives of this regulation and avoiding the fragmentation of the internal market , national cybersecurity certification schemes or procedures for the ict products and services covered by a european cybersecurity certification scheme should cease to produce effects from the date established by the commission by means of the implementing act . moreover , member states should not introduce new national certification schemes providing cybersecurity certification schemes for ict products and services already covered by an existing european cybersecurity certification scheme .


### ensure that ict products and services are provided with up to date software that does not contain known vulnerabilities , and are provided mechanisms for secure software updates . ### ensure that ict products and services are provided with up - to - date software and hardware that does not contain known vulnerabilities ; ensure that they have been designed and implemented in such a way as to effectively limit their susceptibility to vulnerabilities , and ensure that they are provided with mechanisms for secure software updates , including automatic security updates and the possibility of hardware upgrades ;


### the smooth functioning of the agency requires that its executive director be appointed on grounds of merit and documented administrative and managerial skills , as well as competence and experience relevant for cybersecurity , and that the duties of the executive director be carried out with complete independence . the executive director should prepare a proposal for the agency’s work programme , after prior consultation with the commission , and take all necessary steps to ensure the proper execution of the work programme of the agency . the executive director should prepare an annual report to be submitted to the management board , draw up a draft statement of estimates of revenue and expenditure for the agency , and implement the budget . furthermore , the executive director should have the option of setting up ad hoc working groups to address specific matters , in particular of a scientific , technical , legal or socioeconomic nature . the executive director should ensure that the ad hoc working groups’ members are selected according to the highest standards of expertise , taking due account of a representative balance , as appropriate according to the specific issues in question , between the public administrations of the member states , the union institutions and the private sector , including industry , users , and academic experts in network and information security . ### the smooth functioning of the agency requires that its executive director be appointed on grounds of merit and documented administrative and managerial skills , as well as competence and experience relevant for it security , and that the duties of the executive director be carried out with complete independence . the executive director should prepare a proposal for the agency’s work programme , after prior consultation with the commission , and take all necessary steps to ensure the proper execution of the work programme of the agency . the executive director should prepare an annual report to be submitted to the management board , draw up a draft statement of estimates of revenue and expenditure for the agency , and implement the budget . furthermore , the executive director should have the option of setting up ad hoc working groups to address specific matters , in particular of a scientific , technical , legal or socioeconomic nature . the executive director should ensure that the ad hoc working groups’ members are selected according to the highest standards of expertise , taking due account of a representative and gender balance , as appropriate according to the specific issues in question , between the public administrations of the member states , the union institutions and the private sector , including industry , users , and academic experts in network and information security .


### raise awareness of the public about cybersecurity risks , and provide guidance on good practices for individual users aimed at citizens and organisations ; ### raise awareness of the public about it security risks , disseminate adequate measures for prevention of incidents , and provide guidance on good practices for individual users aimed at citizens and organisations ;


### lays down a framework for the establishment of european cybersecurity certification schemes for the purpose of ensuring an adequate level of cybersecurity of ict products and services in the union . such framework shall apply without prejudice to specific provisions regarding voluntary or mandatory certification in other union acts . ### lays down a framework for the establishment of european cybersecurity certification schemes for the purpose of ensuring an adequate level of cybersecurity of ict products , processes and services in the union . such framework shall apply without prejudice to specific provisions regarding voluntary or mandatory certification in other union acts .


### the agency should contribute towards raising the awareness of the public about risks related to cybersecurity and provide guidance on good practices for individual users aimed at citizens and organisations . the agency should also contribute to promote best practices and solutions at the level of individuals and organisations by collecting and analysing publicly available information regarding significant incidents , and by compiling reports with a view to providing guidance to businesses and citizens and improving the overall level of preparedness and resilience . the agency should furthermore organise , in cooperation with the member states and the union institutions , bodies , offices and agencies regular outreach and public education campaigns directed to end - users , aiming at promoting safer individual online behaviour and raising awareness of potential threats in cyberspace , including cybercrimes such as phishing attacks , botnets , financial and banking fraud , as well as promoting basic authentication and data protection advice . the agency should play a central role in accelerating end - user awareness on security of devices . ### the agency should contribute towards raising the awareness of the public about risks related to it security and provide guidance on good practices for individual users aimed at citizens and organisations . to improve the overall level of preparedness and resilience , the agency should also contribute to promote best practices and solutions at the level of individuals and organisations by collecting and analysing available information regarding significant incidents and by compiling reports with a view to providing guidance to businesses , citizens and relevant authorities at union and national level . the agency should furthermore organise , in cooperation with the member states and the union institutions , bodies , offices and agencies regular outreach and public education campaigns directed to end - users . these campaigns should promote it security education and safer individual online behaviour and raise awareness of potential threats in cyberspace , including cybercrimes such as phishing attacks , botnets , financial and banking fraud , forgery and illegal content , as well as advocating data protection and basic authentication to prevent data and identity theft . the agency should play a central role in accelerating end - user awareness on security of devices .


### record which data , functions or services have been communicated , at what times and by whom ; ### ensure that ict products , processes and services do not contain known exploitable vulnerabilities and resist to a defined level of attack ;


### advise the union and the member states on research needs and priorities in the area of cybersecurity , with a view to enabling effective responses to current and emerging risks and threats , including with respect to new and emerging information and communications technologies , and to using risk - prevention technologies effectively ; ### advise the union and the member states on research needs and priorities in the areas of cybersecurity , data protection and privacy , with a view to enabling effective responses to current and emerging risks and threats , including with respect to new and emerging information and communications technologies , and to using risk - prevention technologies effectively ;


### the commission , based on the candidate scheme proposed by enisa , may adopt implementing acts , in accordance with article 55 , providing for european cybersecurity certification schemes for ict products and services meeting the requirements of articles 45 , 46 and 47 of this regulation . ### the commission , based on the candidate scheme proposed by enisa , may adopt implementing acts , in accordance with article 55 , providing for european it security certification schemes for ict products and services meeting the requirements of articles 45 , 46 and 47 of this regulation . the commission may consult the european data protection board and take account of its view before adopting such implementing acts .


### when preparing candidate schemes referred to in paragraph 1 of this article , enisa shall consult all relevant stakeholders and closely cooperate with the group . the group shall provide enisa with the assistance and expert advice required by enisa in relation to the preparation of the candidate scheme , including by providing opinions where necessary . ### when preparing candidate schemes referred to in paragraph 1 of this article , enisa shall consult all relevant stakeholders , as well as the consumer organisations , article 29 working party and the european data protection board as appropriate and closely cooperate with the group . the group shall provide enisa with the assistance and expert advice required by enisa in relation to the preparation of the candidate scheme , including by providing opinions where necessary .


### to ensure that it fully achieves its objectives , the agency should liaise with relevant institutions , agencies and bodies , including cert - eu , european cybercrime centre at europol , european defence agency , european agency for the operational management of large - scale it systems , european aviation safety agency and any other eu agency that is involved in cybersecurity . it should also liaise with authorities dealing with data protection in order to exchange know - how and best practices and provide advice on cybersecurity aspects that might have an impact on their work . representatives of national and union law enforcement and data protection authorities should be eligible to be represented in the agency’s permanent stakeholders group . in liaising with law enforcement bodies regarding network and information security aspects that might have an impact on their work , the agency should respect existing channels of information and established networks . ### to ensure that it fully achieves its objectives , the agency should liaise with relevant institutions , agencies and bodies , including cert - eu , european cybercrime centre at europol , european defence agency , european agency for the operational management of large - scale it systems , european aviation safety agency , european global navigation satellite systems agency and any other eu agency that is involved in it security . it should also liaise with union and national authorities dealing with data protection in order to exchange know - how and best practices and provide advice on it security aspects that might have an impact on their work . representatives of national and union law enforcement and data protection authorities should be eligible to be represented in the agency’s permanent stakeholders group . in liaising with law enforcement bodies regarding network and information security aspects that might have an impact on their work , the agency should respect existing channels of information and established networks .


### by the way of derogation from paragraph 3 , in duly justified cases a particular european cybersecurity scheme may provide that a european cybersecurity certificate resulting from that scheme can only be issued by a public body . such public body shall be one of the following : ### by the way of derogation from paragraph 3 , and only in duly justified cases , a particular european cybersecurity scheme may provide that a european cybersecurity certificate resulting from that scheme can only be issued by a public body . such public body shall be a body that is accredited as conformity assessment body pursuant to article 51 .


### the agency should have a permanent stakeholders’ group as an advisory body , to ensure regular dialogue with the private sector , consumers’ organisations and other relevant stakeholders . the permanent stakeholders’ group , set up by the management board on a proposal by the executive director , should focus on issues relevant to stakeholders and bring them to the attention of the agency . the composition of the permanent stakeholders group and the tasks assigned to this group , to be consulted in particular regarding the draft work programme , should ensure sufficient representation of stakeholders in the work of the agency . ### the agency should have a permanent stakeholders’ group as an advisory body , to ensure regular dialogue with the private sector , consumers’ organisations and other relevant stakeholders . the permanent stakeholders’ group , set up by the management board on a proposal by the executive director , should focus on issues relevant to stakeholders and bring them to the attention of the agency . the composition of the permanent stakeholders group and the tasks assigned to this group , to be consulted in particular regarding the draft work programme , should ensure sufficient representation of stakeholders in the work of the agency . given the importance of certification requirements to ensure trust in iot , the commission should specifically consider implementing measures to ensure union - wide harmonisation of security standards for iot devices .


### ‘ european cybersecurity certificate’ means a document issued by a conformity assessment body attesting that a given ict product or service fulfils the specific requirements laid down in a european cybersecurity certification scheme ; ### ‘ european cybersecurity certificate’ means an attestation issued either through self assessment or through an accredited conformity assessment body attesting that a given ict process , product or service fulfils the specific requirements laid down in a european cybersecurity certification scheme ;


### following a request from the commission , enisa shall prepare a candidate european cybersecurity certification scheme which meets the requirements set out in articles 45 , 46 and 47 of this regulation . member states or the european cybersecurity certification group established under article 53 may propose the preparation of a candidate european cybersecurity certification scheme to the commission . ### following a request from the commission , enisa shall prepare a candidate european it security certification scheme which meets the requirements set out in articles 45 , 46 and 47 of this regulation . member states , the european cybersecurity certification group established under article 53 or the permanent stakeholders group established under article 20 , may propose the preparation of a candidate european it security certification scheme to the commission .


### the agency should encourage member states and service providers to raise their general security standards so that all internet users can take the necessary steps to ensure their own personal cybersecurity . in particular , service providers and product manufacturers should withdraw or recycle products and services that do not meet cybersecurity standards . in cooperation with competent authorities , enisa may disseminate information regarding the level of cybersecurity of the products and services offered in the internal market , and issue warnings targeting providers and manufacturers and requiring them to improve the security , including cybersecurity , of their products and services . ### the agency should encourage member states and service providers to raise their general security standards so that all internet users can take the necessary steps to ensure their own personal it security and refrain from allowing the sales or use of devices that do not meet minimum security conditions . in particular , service providers and product manufacturers should withdraw or recycle products and services that do not meet it security standards . in cooperation with competent authorities , enisa may disseminate information regarding the level of it security of the products and services offered in the internal market , and issue warnings targeting providers and manufacturers and requiring them to improve the security , including it security , of their products and services .


### ‘ european cybersecurity certificate’ means a document issued by a conformity assessment body attesting that a given ict product or service fulfils the specific requirements laid down in a european cybersecurity certification scheme ; ### ‘ european cybersecurity certificate’ means a document issued either by a conformity assessment body or by self - assessment , where permitted , attesting that a given ict product , process or service fulfils the specific requirements laid down in a european cybersecurity certification scheme ;


### in light of the increased cybersecurity challenges faced by the union , there is a need for a comprehensive set of measures that would build on previous union action and foster mutually reinforcing objectives . these include the need to further increase capabilities and preparedness of member states and businesses , as well as to improve cooperation and coordination across member states and eu institutions , agencies and bodies . furthermore , given the borderless nature of cyber threats , there is a need to increase capabilities at union level that could complement the action of member states , in particular in the case of large scale cross - border cyber incidents and crises . additional efforts are also needed to increase awareness of citizens and businesses on cybersecurity issues . moreover , the trust in the digital single market should be further improved by offering transparent information on the level of security of ict products and services . this can be facilitated by eu - wide certification providing common cybersecurity requirements and evaluation criteria across national markets and sectors . ### in light of the increased it security challenges faced by the union , there is a need for a comprehensive set of measures that would build on previous union action and foster mutually reinforcing objectives . these include the need to further increase capabilities and preparedness of member states and businesses , as well as to improve cooperation and coordination across member states and eu institutions , agencies and bodies . furthermore , given the borderless nature of cyber threats , there is a need to increase capabilities at union level that could complement the action of member states , in particular in the case of large scale cross - border cyber incidents and crises . additional efforts are also needed to deliver a coordinated eu response and increase awareness of citizens and businesses on it security issues . moreover , the trust in the digital single market should be further improved by offering transparent information on the level of security of ict products and services . this can be facilitated by eu - wide certification providing common it security requirements and evaluation criteria across national markets and sectors . alongside union - wide certification , there is a range of voluntary measures widely accepted in the market place , depending on the product , service , use or standard . these measures as well as the industry bottom up approach , including the use of security - by - design , leveraging and contributing to international standards , should be encouraged .


### preparing candidate european cybersecurity certification schemes for ict products and services in accordance with article 44 of this regulation ; ### preparing candidate european it security certification schemes for ict products and services in cooperation with industry and in accordance with article 44 of this regulation ;


### raise awareness of the public about cybersecurity risks , and provide guidance on good practices for individual users aimed at citizens and organisations ; ### raise awareness of the public about cybersecurity risks and cyber hygiene practices , and provide guidance on good practices for users aimed at citizens and organisations with the aim of improving their cyber resilience ;


### facilitate the establishment and take - up of european and international standards for risk management and for the security of ict products and services , as well as draw up , in collaboration with member states , advice and guidelines regarding the technical areas related to the security requirements for operators of essential services and digital service providers , as well as regarding already existing standards , including member states ' national standards , pursuant to article 19 of directive 2016 / 1148 ; ### consult the iso / iec international standardisation bodies and european standardisation organisations on the development of standards , to ensure the appropriateness of standards used in european cybersecurity certification schemes and facilitate the establishment and take - up of european and iso / iec standards for risk management and for the security of ict products and services , as well as draw up , in collaboration with member states , advice and guidelines regarding the technical areas related to the security requirements for operators of essential services and digital service providers , as well as regarding already existing standards , including member states ' national standards , pursuant to article 19 of directive 2016 / 1148 ;


### ensure that ict products and services are provided with up to date software that does not contain known vulnerabilities , and are provided mechanisms for secure software updates . ### ensure that ict products and services are provided with up - to - date software and hardware that does not contain known vulnerabilities ; ensure that they have been designed and implemented in such a way as to effectively limit their susceptibility to vulnerabilities , and ensure that they are provided with mechanisms for secure software updates , including automatic security updates and the possibility of hardware upgrades ;