### 39. regrets that bulgaria and north macedonia have yet to find a compromise on issues related to history and language , trusts that they will soon be settled in order not to jeopardise the integration momentum , and looks forward to holding of the first intergovernmental conference , kick-starting the accession talks without a further delay; ### 39. looks forward to holding the first intergovernmental conference , kick-starting the accession talks without further delay , and calls on bulgaria and north macedonia to find a compromise on issues related to history and language , while reiterating that this dispute has no relation whatsoever to the official accession criteria and should be settled separately from the accession process of north macedonia;


### 42. invites north macedonia to continue contributing to the eu crisis management operations and increasing its alignment with the common foreign and security policy; ### 42. acknowledges the high level of alignment of north macedonia with the common foreign and security policy and invites the country to continue contributing to the eu crisis management operations;


### 16. calls for the eu and the member states to continue to closely monitor developments that negatively affect governance and civil society space worldwide , and to systematically respond , using all appropriate means , to policies and legislative changes led by authoritarian governments , that are aimed at undermining governance based on fundamental democratic principles and at shrinking civil society space; is of the opinion that synergy between the commission , the eeas and parliament should be strengthened in relation to this matter; ### 16. calls for the eu and the member states to continue to closely monitor developments that negatively affect democratic governance and civil society space worldwide , without exception , and to systematically respond , using all appropriate means , to policies and legislative changes led by authoritarian governments , that are aimed at undermining governance based on fundamental democratic principles and at shrinking civil society space; is of the opinion that synergy between the commission , the eeas and parliament should be strengthened in relation to this matter; welcomes the invaluable assistance provided to civil society organizations worldwide under the european instrument for democracy and human rights , which continues to constitute the flagship instrument of the european union in implementing its external human rights policy; calls for funding to civil society and human rights under the successor global instrument to be further enhanced;


### 17. stresses the link between the increase in human rights violations and widespread impunity and the lack of accountability in regions and countries devastated by conflicts or marked by politically motivated intimidation , discrimination , harassment and assault , abduction , violent policing , arbitrary arrests and cases of torture; ### 17. stresses the link between the increase in human rights violations and widespread impunity and the lack of accountability in regions and countries devastated by conflicts or marked by politically motivated intimidation , discrimination , harassment and assault , abduction , violent policing , arbitrary arrests and cases of torture; stresses also that in conflicts , minorities and marginalised groups are often particularly severely impacted;


### 18. welcomes the eu’s efforts to promote the universality of the rome statute in 2018 , during which the 20th anniversary of its adoption was celebrated , and reaffirms its unwavering support of the international criminal court; calls on the commission and the eeas to explore ways and present new tools to help the victims of violations of international human rights law and of international humanitarian law to access international justice and obtain remedy and reparation; ### 18. welcomes the eu’s efforts to promote the universality of the rome statute in 2018 , during which the 20th anniversary of its adoption was celebrated , and reaffirms its unwavering support of the international criminal court; calls on the commission and the eeas to explore ways and present new tools to help the victims of violations of international human rights law and of international humanitarian law to access international justice and obtain remedy and reparation , including through building the capacity of member states but also third countries to apply the principle of universal jurisdiction in their domestic legal systems;


### 19. welcomes the initial discussions within the council regarding the establishment of an eu human rights sanctions mechanism , the so-called ‘magnitsky list’ , allowing for targeted sanctions against individuals complicit in serious human rights violations; ### 19. welcomes the initial discussions within the council regarding the establishment of an eu human rights sanctions mechanism allowing for targeted sanctions against individuals complicit in serious human rights violations; urges , however , the council to swiftly adopt the necessary legislation , and points out that parliament has expressed its backing of the mechanism already in march 2019;


### — having regard to the council conclusions of 10 may 2021 entitled ‘the horn of africa: a geo-strategic priority for the eu’ , ### — having regard to the council conclusions of 10 may 2021 entitled ‘the horn of africa: a geo-strategic priority for the eu’ , and particularly to action 28 regarding access to and respect for sexual and reproductive health and rights ,


### — having regard to resolution 376 of the african commission on human and peoples’ rights , adopted in may 2017 , ### — having regard to resolutions 275 (lv) 2014 on protection against violence and other human rights violations against persons on the basis of their real or imputed sexual orientation or gender identity and 376 (lx) 2017 on the situation of human rights defenders in africa of the african commission on human and peoples’ rights ,


### coordinate eu initiatives and support with african counterparts by favouring african ownership of the programmes whenever possible , thus helping to find african solutions to african problems; adopt , in this regard , a conditionality approach based on the more for more and less for less principle; ### coordinate eu initiatives and support with african counterparts by favouring african ownership of the programmes , thus helping to find african solutions to african problems; adopt , in this regard , a conditionality approach based on the more for more and less for less principle;


### coordinate efforts in the region with the african union and its regional components , as well as with the un and other like-minded partners; ### coordinate efforts in the region with the african union and its regional components , the intergovernmental authority on development (igad) , as well as with the un , international financial institutions (ifis) and other like-minded partners;


### adopt a proactive , inclusive and cooperative approach based on selective engagement with countries and actors present in the horn of africa , sharing eu best practices and experience in integrating economic , financial , social , cultural and security-related issues to foster effective cooperation across the region and in the maritime domain , while also acting as a facilitator of dialogue with all parties involved; ### adopt a proactive , inclusive and cooperative approach based on selective engagement with countries and actors present in the horn of africa , sharing eu best practices and experience in integrating economic , financial , social , cultural and security-related issues to foster effective cooperation across the region and in the maritime domain , while also acting as a facilitator of dialogue with all parties involved especially through the eu special representative for the horn of africa;


### contribute to regional security and stability both through conflict resolution and mediation activities and by addressing the root causes of conflicts; ### contribute to regional security and stability both through civilian conflict prevention , conflict resolution , dialogue , reconciliation and mediation activities and by addressing the root causes of conflicts;


### support all diplomatic efforts devoted to ending the ongoing conflict within ethiopia , both at national level and in the forums provided by the african union , in order to agree on a permanent ceasefire and facilitate internal reconciliation; ### support all diplomatic efforts devoted to ending the ongoing conflicts within ethiopia , both at national level and in the forums provided by the african union , in order to agree on a permanent ceasefire , allow humanitarian relief to reach in-need areas and facilitate internal reconciliation;


### provide the countries affected by conflicts and natural disasters with prompt and adequate humanitarian assistance , in coordination with like-minded partners; ### understand climate change as risk and threat multiplier , exacerbating insecurity and existing tensions , and address climate security as a core element of any comprehensive regional strategy; provide the countries affected by conflicts and natural disasters with prompt and adequate humanitarian assistance , in coordination with like-minded partners;


### acknowledge the positive impacts of operation atlanta in guaranteeing maritime security , and take note of the non-extension of its mandate within the unsc; call on the member states to show adequate commitment to the eu training mission in somalia both in terms of personnel and means , in order to empower the somali armed forces to guarantee security in the country; ### acknowledge the positive impacts of operation atlanta in guaranteeing maritime security , and take note of the non-extension of its mandate within the unsc; call on the member states to show adequate commitment to the au transition mission in somalia (atmis) and the eu training mission in somalia both in terms of personnel and means , in order to empower the somali armed forces to guarantee security in the country while fully complying with international humanitarian law and international human rights law;


### take note of the growing activity of terrorist groups in the whole region , and provide tailored and effective assistance to the affected countries in countering both the immediate effects of this expansion and the root causes of extremism and radicalisation; ### take note of the growing activity of terrorist groups , namely al-shabaab , al-qaeda and isis in the whole region , and provide tailored and effective assistance to the affected countries in countering both the immediate effects of this expansion and the root causes of extremism and radicalisation while fully complying with international humanitarian law and international human rights law;


### ensure that assistance channelled through the european peace facility abides by european fundamental values and helps in building a transparent , accountable and reliable security sector; ### ensure that assistance channelled through the ndici's cbsd policy and the european peace facility complies with the eight criteria of the legally binding eu common position on arms exports , human rights and humanitarian law , obligations to carry out comprehensive ex ante risk assessment and permanent monitoring by the eu level of the supply of military technology to third country actors , and effective transparency provisions such as the publication of a detailed list of military equipment provided to partner countries , ensure the traceability and proper use of the material delivered to partners under the epf , and that this assistance helps in building a transparent , accountable and reliable security sector;


### fully support democratic transitions , the rule of law and state-building processes and promote an open political space; deploy , whenever possible , election observation missions; ### fully support democratic transitions , the rule of law and state-building processes and promote an open political space , at the same time incorporate local approaches , hybrid models and procedures for the operationalisation of universal values and norms of democracy , rule-of-law and human rights; deploy , whenever necessary , election observation missions;


### work in partnership with our african counterparts and civil society to identify and address the main human rights challenges and priorities in the region; ### work in partnership with our african counterparts and increase cooperation with civil society to identify and address the human rights challenges and priorities in the region , to strengthening democratic and fundamental rights accountability;


### sustainable and inclusive economic growth – society ### sustainable and inclusive economic development – society


### devote particular attention to widespread , locally-owned projects that are more effective in improving people’s lives , i.e. off-grid solar power systems , in particular in the most remote areas; ### devote particular attention to widespread , locally-owned projects that are more effective in improving people’s lives , i.e. off-grid solar power systems , in particular in the most remote areas and make sure that eu investments in sustainable energy in africa , should primarily benefit the local population with the objective to end energy poverty not to export it to the european union; stress that finding agronomic alternatives to expensive synthetic fertiliser can be the most cost-effective policy option for eu and countries in the horn of africa and recalls in this regard the eu farm to fork strategy’s intention to reduce farmers’ dependency on external outputs;


### adopt a holistic , conflict-sensitive approach to cooperation on migration , in line with the khartoum process , taking into account the different drivers of migration in the region and the persistent vulnerability of migrants , respecting the rights of migrants and refugees , and recognising the benefits of circular migration and regional mobility; ### adopt a holistic , conflict-and contexte sensitive and human centred approach to cooperation on migration , in line with the khartoum process and the global compacts on safe , orderly and regular migration and on refugees , taking into account the different drivers of migration in the region and the persistent vulnerabilities of migrants , respecting the rights of migrants and refugees , and recognising the necessity , normality and benefits of circular migration and regional mobility in the wider red sea region;


### provide assistance and support to the countries hosting and assisting refugees; facilitate the relocation of displaced persons and internally displaced persons; ### provide assistance and support to the countries hosting and assisting refugees; facilitate the resettlement of displaced persons and internally displaced persons;


### adopt a team europe approach in the region , working with a wide spectrum of actors , including from the private sector , in supporting african-owned initiatives; ### adopt a team europe approach in the region , working with a wide spectrum of actors in supporting african-owned initiatives;


### acknowledge that efficient infrastructures are key to consistent , sustainable and fair development in the region; fully exploit the potential of new eu-sponsored initiatives aiming at enhancing regional integration and connectivity; increase consultation and coordination with african counterparts in the definition of specific projects to be developed in the global gateway framework; ### acknowledge that efficient infrastructures are key to consistent , sustainable and fair development in the region; notes new eu-sponsored initiatives aiming at enhancing regional integration and connectivity; increase consultation and coordination with african counterparts in the definition of specific projects to be developed in the global gateway framework; note the prominent role attributed to blending mechanisms in the global gateway at the expense of other aid modalities; recall that there is little evidence of the development impact of blending; recall equally that blending raises concerns in terms of debt sustainability; call on the eu and its member states , in a context where oda remains a scarce resource , to limit blending operations to those areas where they can add value to the local economy , but to exclude blending finance from essential public services , particularly health , education and social protection , as the monetisation of those sectors could widen already existing inequalities and jeopardise the universal access to those services; more broadly , urge the european commission and the member states to prioritise partnerships with ldc domestic enterprises that pursue sustainable and inclusive business models;


### take note of the growing , multifaceted influence of third parties in the region; recognise that the increasing presence of actors that do not share the union`s values , interests and objectives could undermine the eu’s role as a privileged partner; ### take note of the growing , multifaceted influence of third parties in the region , in particular saudi arabia , the united arab emirates , qatar and turkey; recognise that the increasing presence of actors that do not share the union`s values , interests and objectives could undermine the eu’s role as a privileged partner; call on the eu to promote itself as a partner in support of a regional approach , furthering economic cooperation and conflict prevention as opposed to third actor’s exacerbation of fragmentation and geopolitical escalation;


### reinforce strategic communication through effective and fact-based campaigns about eu actions and eu sponsored initiatives in the region , underlining their added value for local communities , sustainable development and inclusive growth , while also countering disinformation and false narratives from third parties; ### reinforce its communication through effective and fact-based public information about eu actions , eu objectives and eu sponsored initiatives in the region , underlining the objective to create an added value for local communities , sustainable development and inclusive growth , while also countering disinformation and false narratives from third parties;


### a. whereas , on 9 february 2021 , the commission and the commission vice-president / high representative of the union for foreign affairs and security policy (vp/hr) endorsed a joint communication for an ambitious and renewed partnership with the southern neighbourhood including a new agenda for the mediterranean and an accompanying economic and investment plan focusing on , inter alia: human development , good governance and the rule of law; resilience , prosperity and the digital transition , peace and security , migration and mobility , as well as the green transition; climate resilience , energy and the environment; ### a. whereas , on 9 february 2021 , the commission and the commission vice-president / high representative of the union for foreign affairs and security policy (vp/hr) endorsed a joint communication for an ambitious and renewed partnership with the southern neighbourhood including a new agenda for the mediterranean and an accompanying economic and investment plan focusing on five priorities , namely: human development , good governance and the rule of law; resilience , prosperity and the digital transition; peace and security; migration and mobility , as well as the green transition; climate resilience , energy and the environment;


### b. whereas the southern neighbourhood should not be seen in a vacuum , but in close correlation with the eastern neighbourhood and an overall reflection on how to pursue closer relations between the eu and its neighbours; whereas both the eu’s southern and eastern neighbourhoods are strategic for the eu in that they can ensure shorter and , therefore , more secure and more effective supply lines; whereas the eu should pursue a common regulatory space that includes its southern and eastern neighbourhoods , and therefore ensures access for its neighbouring countries to the highest policy standards , which are multipliers of economic investment and economic growth; ### b. whereas the southern neighbourhood should not be seen in a vacuum , but in close correlation with the broader european neighbourhood policy (enp) as defined in the 2015 enp review , and an overall reflection on how to pursue closer and balanced relations between the eu and its neighbours; whereas both the eu’s southern and eastern neighbourhoods are strategic for the eu in that they can promote human rights and democratic reforms and ensure a more secure and effective space for economic relations and investment , including shorter and mutually beneficial supply lines; whereas the eu should pursue a common regulatory and reformist space that includes its southern and eastern neighbourhoods , and therefore ensures access for its neighbouring countries to the highest policy , anti-corruption and human rights standards , which are multipliers of economic investment and economic growth;


### c. whereas the war in ukraine has underlined the threat posed by third countries that seek political and economic hegemony in the eu’s neighbourhood to the detriment of the democratic aspirations and territorial integrity of target countries; whereas russia , china and iran are all seeking to increase their capacity to exercise political and/or economic hegemony in certain southern neighbourhood countries and , therefore , the eu’s capacity-building for fighting disinformation and promoting freedom of the press is crucial; whereas the eu should reaffirm its role as the primary political , economic and democratic anchor for the countries of the southern neighbourhood; ### c. whereas the war in ukraine has underlined the threat posed by third countries that seek political and economic hegemony in the eu’s neighbourhood to the detriment of the democratic aspirations and territorial integrity of target countries; whereas russia , china and regional powers are seeking to increase their capacity to exercise political and/or economic hegemony in certain southern neighbourhood countries and , therefore , the eu’s and the southern neighbourhood countries’ capacity-building for fighting disinformation and promoting freedom of the press , freedoms of association and assembly is crucial;


### d. whereas the war in ukraine and the resulting need to further diversify the eu’s energy supply have shown the essential role of the southern neighbourhood in securing sufficient gas and oil supplies to the eu with mutual benefits for both the eu and the southern neighbourhood countries; whereas the discovery of relevant natural gas reserves in the southern and eastern mediterranean provides a unique opportunity for economic development in the countries concerned; whereas these gas reserves equally provide an important opportunity for partnership , investment and the sharing of know-how between the countries of the southern mediterranean and the eu and its member states; whereas the southern neighbourhood is therefore not only essential for reasons of regional security and stability , but also as a primary partner for access to energy sources , including renewables; ### d. whereas the war in ukraine and the resulting need to increase the eu’s energy sovereignty have shown the essential role of the southern neighbourhood in becoming crucial partners in achieving the european green deal; whereas the abundance of renewable energy sources in the countries of the southern neighbourhood provide a unique opportunity for clean energy cooperation with the eu , including hydrogen from renewable sources of energy; whereas such energy cooperation allows for sharing know-how between the countries of the southern mediterranean and the eu and its member states ; whereas the southern neighbourhood is therefore not only essential for reasons of regional security and stability , but also as a primary partner for energy cooperation; whereas true partnership with mutual benefits , notably for people in the countries of the southern neighbourhood is key to guarantee their access to renewable , affordable and local energy in an inclusive way; whereas , because of their historical emissions , eu member states have a carbon debt towards developing countries;


### e. whereas security and stability in the southern neighbourhood are closely correlated with the prospects for real socioeconomic integration of women and youth and their capacity to access education , vocational training , employment and adequate longer-term professional development; ### e. whereas security , stability , democracy and the respect of human rights in the southern neighbourhood are closely correlated with the prospects for open spaces for citizens and independent civil society to share ideas and opinions freely , including criticism of their governments without fear of reprisal , and with real socioeconomic integration of women , youth and discriminated groups such as lgbtqi+ persons and religious , cultural and ethnic minorities and their capacity to access education , vocational training , employment and adequate longer-term professional development;


### secure adequate resources for timely and effective implementation of the new agenda for the mediterranean based on the objectives and priorities jointly determined with southern neighbourhood partner countries , building on valuable synergies through the programming of the external action for the region under the neighbourhood , development and international cooperation instrument (ndici) and pursuing close coordination with member state programming as well as facilitating as much as possible opportunities for blending through partnerships between the european investment bank , the european bank for reconstruction and development and other relevant international financial institutions; takes the view that the new agenda for the mediterranean can introduce a positive conditionality under which active eu support for a closer and effective policy interface with southern neighbourhood countries can lead to further partnerships and convergence on other policy priorities for the benefit of both the eu and southern neighbourhood countries; recalls , in this regard , the importance of ensuring eu visibility in all eu financial resources allocated to the region directly or indirectly through partnership with the un or other international organisations; ### secure adequate resources for timely and effective implementation of the new agenda for the mediterranean based on the objectives and priorities jointly determined with southern neighbourhood partner countries , building on valuable synergies through the programming of the external action for the region under the neighbourhood , development and international cooperation instrument (ndici) and pursuing close coordination with member state programming as well as facilitating transparent cooperation with the european investment bank , the european bank for reconstruction and development and other relevant international financial institutions; takes the view that the new agenda for the mediterranean can introduce a positive conditionality under which active eu support for a closer and effective policy interface with southern neighbourhood countries can lead to further partnerships and convergence on other policy priorities , including on the first stated priorities dealing with human development , good governance and the rule of law for the benefit of both the eu and southern neighbourhood countries and their populations;


### address , as a matter of priority , the impact of the war in ukraine on certain southern neighbourhood countries in terms of food security , with particular reference to countries most vulnerable because of their population size , dependence on food imports or economic model; asks the commission to engage with parliament on ways to ensure food security for countries in the southern mediterranean that face difficulties in this regard and devise a robust policy and assistance response for this purpose without further delay , also building on the food and resilience facility in order to address food security in the region; ### address , as a matter of priority , the impact of the war in ukraine on certain southern neighbourhood countries in terms of food security , with particular reference to countries most vulnerable because of their population size , dependence on food imports , lack of social security or economic model; asks the commission to engage with parliament on ways to ensure food security for countries in the southern mediterranean that face difficulties in this regard and devise a robust policy and assistance response for this purpose without further delay , supporting sustainable local agricultural systems , less input-intensive and more climate relevant agricultural practices notably based on the food and resilience facility , as well as support efforts to roll out universal social protection;


### implement under the ndici , as a matter of priority , strategies and dedicated programming for broader youth access to education , vocational training , higher education together with adequate funding for access to education; recalls that youth migration , whether regular or irregular , and professional brain drain are a matter of serious concern to our partners in the region , as well as a serious threat to the longer-term capacity for economic growth and economic viability of southern neighbourhood countries; stresses the importance of expanding access to the erasmus and erasmus+ programmes for participants from southern neighbourhood countries; recalls the importance of circular mobility , including south-to-south exchanges , so that professionals from southern neighbourhood countries can have concrete opportunities to further their professional training in the eu and return to their country of origin to share and build knowledge; recalls the importance of mainstreaming the socioeconomic integration of women in the region and of gender equality in all eu policies areas whenever possible; stresses the importance of targeted eu support for women with the objective of improving their access to education , training and employment and , more generally , promoting equal professional and socioeconomic opportunities; ### implement under the ndici , as a matter of priority , strategies to alleviate poverty and strategies and dedicated programming for broader youth access to education , vocational training , higher education together with adequate funding for access to education; stresses the importance of expanding access to the erasmus and erasmus+ programmes for participants from southern neighbourhood countries; recalls the importance of circular mobility , including south-to-south exchanges and mobility partnerships , so that professionals from southern neighbourhood countries can have concrete opportunities to further their professional training and skills in the eu; increase the participation of students from southern neighbours in erasmus and erasmus+ programmes , including those who fled ukraine , and increase the funding for such exchanges; prevent these policies to impact negatively southern neighbours through the phenomenon of brain drain , recalls the importance of mainstreaming the socioeconomic integration of women in the region and of gender equality in all eu policies areas stresses the importance of targeted eu support for women with the objective of improving their access to education , training and employment and , more generally , promoting equal professional and socioeconomic opportunities;


### prepare an analysis of the positive role which the southern neighbourhood countries can play in the eu’s strategy of reducing its carbon emissions , and the contribution of these countries to the eu’s strategy of diversifying its energy resources and increasing its energy supply from renewable energy sources; ### prepare an analysis of the positive role that the southern neighbourhood countries and the eu can play in reducing their carbon emissions and the efforts they can undertake jointly in diversifying their energy resources and increasing their energy supply from renewable energy sources;


### pursue an active eu role in facilitating dialogue and cooperation among all the countries of the southern and eastern mediterranean that have relevant natural gas reserves , promoting , where necessary , the capacity for understanding and final settlements on maritime border demarcation , and further promoting the interconnection capacity between countries in the southern and eastern mediterranean that produce natural gas and the european union , through relevant eu hubs and considering , in particular , adequate pipeline , harbour and regasification infrastructures and technology both in the eu and in southern neighbourhood countries for the benefit of all producer countries and all member states; ### pursue an active eu role in facilitating dialogue and cooperation among all the countries of the southern and eastern mediterranean in the field of energy , promoting , where necessary , the capacity for understanding and dialogue , and further promoting any necessary interconnection capacity between countries in the southern and eastern mediterranean and the european union , and considering , in particular , adequate infrastructures and technology both in the eu and in southern neighbourhood countries for the benefit of all countries and all member states;


### build on the very positive experience of some member states in supporting start-up companies and further advancing their work through dedicated incubators or accelerators , especially in key sectors such as health , renewable energy and education; takes the view that the eu should set up incubators or accelerators in relevant southern neighbourhood countries , support the creation of local start-up companies , and increase their digital and green capacities; concurs on the importance of further improving the digital infrastructure of relevant southern neighbourhood countries and including these countries in the eu’s digital agenda; points out that this is a prerequisite for economic development , socioeconomic integration and wider access to education; recalls the importance of close policy dialogue and cooperation between the eu and the southern neighbourhood countries to develop adequate cybersecurity policies and partnership in international forums on cybersecurity standards; takes the view that the eu should build on the stratcom task force south and develop a concrete strategy for combating disinformation in our southern neighbourhood countries , aiming to counter fake news and propaganda in order to reinforce democracy and stability; ### build on the positive experience in supporting start-up companies and further advancing their work through dedicated incubators or accelerators , especially in key sectors such as health , renewable energy and education; takes the view that the eu should set up incubators or accelerators in relevant southern neighbourhood countries , support the creation of local start-up companies , and increase their digital and green capacities; concurs on the importance of further improving the digital infrastructure of relevant southern neighbourhood countries and including these countries in the eu’s digital agenda; points out that this is a prerequisite for economic development , socioeconomic integration and wider access to education; recalls the importance of close policy dialogue and cooperation between the eu and the southern neighbourhood countries to develop adequate cybersecurity policies and partnership in international forums on cybersecurity standards; takes the view that the eu should build on the stratcom task force south and develop a concrete strategy for combating disinformation in our southern neighbourhood countries , aiming to counter fake news and propaganda in order to reinforce human rights democracy and stability; calls on the eu to urge governments of southern and eastern neighbours to allow unfettered access to internet and freedom of expression of dissent voices without fear of reprisals; calls on the governments of southern and eastern neighbours to respect and protect freedom of expression and its corollaries freedom of information and press freedom both online and offline; calls on the eu to finance programs in support of freedom of expression and privacy , access and ethics on the internet;


### promote regional , sub-regional and bilateral integration in the southern mediterranean , in particular with a view to the removal of any border , transport or trade barriers between the countries of the region and actively promoting closer links and partnerships; takes the view that the recent negev foreign ministers summit in sde boker attests to the potential for regional integration and peace in the region in the framework of the abraham accords; welcomes the intention of holding this summit annually and calls on the vp/hr and the commission to use the positive momentum of the abraham accords to advance dialogue and cooperation in the region on support for the middle east peace process and the two-state solution; ### promote regional , sub-regional and bilateral integration in the southern mediterranean , in particular with a view to the removal of any border , transport or trade barriers between the countries of the region and between them and the eu , and actively promoting closer links and partnerships , for instance regarding visa facilitation without linking it to migration management; takes the view that that the eu should advance dialogue and cooperation in the region on support for the middle east peace process and the two-state solution; continue to support , both politically and financially , the work of relevant un bodies such as the united nations relief and works agency for palestine refugees (unrwa) , also in view of the vote on the renewal of its mandate by the un general assembly in 2022; ensure compensation for the demolition of eu-funded structures in the occupied palestinian territories by israel;


### implement the new agenda for the mediterranean through dedicated dialogue and consultation with local and regional authorities , as well as reinforce the links between eu delegations and the euro-mediterranean regional and local assembly (arlem); recalls that these are important drivers for development and are closer to the people , so that implementation strategies can reach all communities , including those most disadvantaged geographically or in socioeconomic terms; ### implement the new agenda for the mediterranean through dedicated dialogue and consultation with local and regional authorities , as well as independent civil society , including in the run-up to the cop 27 in cairo; reinforce the links between eu delegations and the euro-mediterranean regional and local assembly (arlem); recalls that these are important drivers for development and are closer to the people , so that implementation strategies can reach all communities , including those most disadvantaged geographically or in socioeconomic terms , and human rights defenders , the rule of law , good governance and democratic reforms;


### present annual updates on the implementation of the new agenda for the mediterranean , with particular regard to the financial resources made available for the economic and investment plan; takes the view that the commission and the vp/hr should regularly consult parliament on the annual and multi-annual programming related to the implementation of the new agenda for the mediterranean and the economic and investment plan , and that they should regularly brief parliament on the state of play of the new agenda for the mediterranean , and inform it about the implementation of parliament recommendations in all eu policies areas , as well as on additional projects and programmes that will boost the eu’s partnership capacity with southern neighbourhood countries; ### present annual updates on the implementation of the new agenda for the mediterranean , with particular regard to the disbursement of financial resources made available for the economic and investment plan; takes the view that the commission and the vp/hr should regularly consult parliament on the annual and multi-annual programming related to the implementation of the new agenda for the mediterranean and the economic and investment plan , and that they should regularly brief parliament on the state of play of the new agenda for the mediterranean , especially the implementation of its five priorities and the conclusion and fulfilment of joint document and partnership priorities , and inform it about the implementation of parliament recommendations in all eu policies areas , as well as on additional projects and programmes that will boost the eu’s partnership capacity with southern neighbourhood countries;


### ensure a positive link between the new agenda for the mediterranean and the capacity of the eu and its member states to build a coalition of like-minded countries to support a rules-based , effective multilateral system capable of boosting the capacity of the international community to address global challenges; reiterates its view that the new agenda for the mediterranean should include dialogue on the value for southern neighbourhood countries converging with the eu not only on policy dialogue , stability and economic growth , but also on the capacity to promote peace and stability , democratic values and human rights in the un system and relevant multilateral forums; ### ensure a positive link between the new agenda for the mediterranean and the capacity of the eu and its member states to build a coalition of like-minded countries to support a rules-based , effective multilateral system capable of boosting the capacity of the international community to address global challenges; reiterates its view that the new agenda for the mediterranean should include dialogue on the value for southern neighbourhood countries converging with the eu not only on policy dialogue , human rights , stability and economic growth , but also on the capacity to promote peace and stability , democratic values and human rights in the un system and relevant multilateral forums;


### c. whereas albania has been a candidate country since 2014 and the commission submitted a draft negotiating framework for albania on 1 july 2020; ### c. whereas albania has been a candidate country since 2014 for which the commission has been recommending to start accession talks since 2018 and finally submitted a draft negotiating framework on 1 july 2020;


### d. whereas the eu must provide a clear pathway for countries seeking to join the eu; ### d. whereas the eu must provide a clear and reliable pathway for countries seeking to join the eu;


### 2. recalls the need to uphold the pace and credibility of european integration by promptly opening accession negotiations with albania and north macedonia , as continuously recommended by the commission , given that both countries have fulfilled the conditions and deliver sustained results across fundamental areas; ### 2. urges the council to uphold the credibility of european integration by promptly opening accession negotiations with albania and north macedonia , as continuously recommended by the commission , given that both countries have fulfilled the conditions and deliver sustained results across fundamental areas;


### 4. underscores that the pace of eu accession is determined by the progress on the due functioning of all institutions and is grounded in the rule of law , good governance and fundamental rights; urges albania to sustain and intensify efforts to reinforce the functioning of the judiciary , strengthen the rule of law , counter corruption and organised crime , and ensure media freedom; ### 4. underscores that the pace of eu accession is determined by the progress on the due functioning of all institutions and is grounded in the rule of law , good governance and fundamental rights; urges albania to sustain and intensify efforts to reinforce the functioning of the judiciary , strengthen the rule of law , counter corruption and organised crime , and ensure media freedom; recalls in this context that the transformation of a candidate country towards an eu member state takes place during accession negotiations , which last as long as needed to implement the necessary reforms;


### 6. welcomes all efforts to reduce polarisation ahead of the 2021 general elections , which brought the opposition parties back into the political process; ### 6. welcomes all efforts to reduce polarisation ahead of the 2021 general elections , which brought the opposition parties back into the political process; underlines that political parties should be characterized by political maturity in treating matters of public interest and be in a position to solve internal party problems through proper democratic internal processes and procedures;


### 7. recalls the need to keep addressing the remaining electoral shortcomings by further improving the accessibility and integrity of elections , including through digitalisation , data protection , equitable access to media and revised rules on political party financing; ### 7. recalls the need to keep addressing the remaining electoral shortcomings by further improving the accessibility and integrity of elections , including through digitalisation , data protection , equitable access to media and revised legislation and rules on political party financing and functioning;


### 8. expresses concern over the enduring inflammatory rhetoric , which fuels the culture of intimidation , smear campaigns , violence and rioting; ### 8. expresses concern over the enduring inflammatory rhetoric , including by high-level politicians , public officials and other public figures , which fuels the culture of intimidation , smear campaigns , violence and rioting;


### 9. encourages the government to accelerate administrative preparations for the upcoming accession negotiations; stresses the importance of having in place coherent government structures to effectively coordinate eu integration matters; underlines the need to improve intra-service coordination , evaluation and monitoring of eu-related reforms , to advance decentralisation , country-wide modernisation and depoliticisation of the civil service and to enable conditions to conduct the upcoming population census; ### 9. encourages the government to accelerate administrative preparations for the upcoming accession negotiations; stresses the importance of having in place coherent government structures to effectively coordinate eu integration matters , including by involving civil society and other relevant stakeholders and ensuring transparency towards the general public; underlines the need to improve intra-service coordination , evaluation and monitoring of eu-related reforms , to advance decentralisation , country-wide modernisation and depoliticisation of the civil service and to enable conditions to conduct the upcoming population census;


### 12. notes the need for further progress on freedom of expression , media independence and pluralism; requests authorities to take decisive action against the marginalisation of and intimidation against independent media outlets and reporters; repeats its calls to improve the working conditions of journalists and to adopt regulations enhancing transparency around media ownership , funding and public advertising; ### 12. notes the need for urgent improvement of freedom of expression , media independence and pluralism; urges political figures to stop verbal attacks , smear campaigns and acts of intimidation against journalists , including defamation lawsuits; requests authorities to take decisive action against the marginalisation of and intimidation against independent media outlets and reporters , including provisions against strategic lawsuits against public participation (slapp); repeats its calls to improve the working conditions of journalists and to adopt regulations enhancing transparency around media ownership , funding and public advertising;


### 14. recalls the need to strengthen investigative journalism , fact-checking and media literacy as means to tackle hate speech , disinformation and fake news; stresses the need to ensure an impartial regulatory functioning of the audiovisual media authority; ### 14. recalls the need to strengthen investigative journalism , fact-checking and media literacy as means to tackle hate speech , disinformation and fake news; encourages support for self-regulatory mechanism of media and stresses the need to ensure an impartial regulatory functioning of the audiovisual media authority;


### 16. urges the relevant bodies to systematically and proactively prevent and prosecute all instances of hate speech , hate crimes and intimidation; ### 16. urges the relevant bodies to systematically and proactively prevent and prosecute all instances of hate speech , hate crimes and intimidation; encourages the office of the commissioner for protection from discrimination to be more proactive in combatting discriminatory hate speech , in particular against lgbti persons , and to develop disaggregated data collection on the matter;


### 16. urges the relevant bodies to systematically and proactively prevent and prosecute all instances of hate speech , hate crimes and intimidation; ### 16. urges the relevant bodies to systematically and proactively prevent and prosecute all instances of hate speech , hate crimes and intimidation , particularly those directed at members of minorities;


### 17. welcomes advances in ensuring equal opportunities and calls for further improvements in the enforcement of gender equality , property rights , data protection , rights of people with disabilities and minority rights; ### 17. welcomes advances in ensuring equal opportunities and calls for further improvements in the enforcement of gender equality , property rights , data protection , rights of people with disabilities and minority rights; requests from the authorities to ensure equal treatment for lgbti+ and roma minorities and tackle multiple discrimination that these groups face through a systemic and effective institutional approach;


### 17. welcomes advances in ensuring equal opportunities and calls for further improvements in the enforcement of gender equality , property rights , data protection , rights of people with disabilities and minority rights; ### 17. welcomes advances in ensuring equal opportunities and calls for further improvements in the enforcement of gender equality , property rights , data protection , rights of people with disabilities and minority rights , including especially the rights of roma and lgbti persons , who are exposed to multiple discrimination;


### 19. acknowledges the progress achieved in implementing the istanbul convention and calls on authorities to step up the prevention and responses to gender-based violence and femicide , to enhance support to survivors and to advance the prosecution of cases of harassment , domestic violence and violence against children; ### 19. acknowledges the progress achieved in implementing the istanbul convention and calls on authorities to step up the prevention and responses to gender-based violence and femicide , to enhance support to survivors , to provide sufficient resources for e.g. specialised and reintegration services for victims and more legal aid free of charge for victims , support to women’s ngos working with victims of gbv , and to advance the prosecution of cases of harassment , domestic violence and violence against children , including through increasing the number of well-trained and gender-sensitive law enforcement officers and judges;


### 20. recalls the need to ensure the right to freedom of peaceful assembly and notes the importance of addressing allegations of police misconduct and disproportionate use of force; ### 20. recalls the need to effectively ensure the right to freedom of peaceful assembly without applying different standards and notes the importance of addressing allegations of police misconduct and disproportionate use of force , with a view to bringing perpetrators to justice;


### 23. commends the steady progress in implementing a comprehensive justice reform , underpinned by the unprecedented vetting process , followed by a restored functionality of relevant courts; ### 23. commends the steady progress in implementing a comprehensive justice reform , underpinned by the unprecedented vetting process , followed by a restored functionality of relevant courts; however , expresses concern for some of its side-effects , such as the length of proceedings , low clearance rate and high backlog especially in the high court and administrative court of appeal; calls on the competent authorities to implement the necessary measures to facilitate the backlog reduction and speed up judicial proceedings;


### 26. urges all sides to ensure the completion of the vetting process; ### 26. warmly welcomes the recent extension of the vetting bodies’ mandate where the parliament showed strong cross-party resolve to move forward on eu accession;


### 27. welcomes the adoption of 10 laws aiming to further strengthen the efficiency of the judicial system and underlines the importance of additional measures such as the implementation of the judicial map , a new integrated case management system and a strengthened legal education system; ### 27. welcomes the adoption of 10 laws aiming to further strengthen the efficiency of the judicial system and underlines the importance of additional measures such as the implementation of the judicial map , a new integrated case management system and a strengthened legal education system; highlights that such reforms and their implementation need to take into consideration the socio-economic conditions of vulnerable groups , increase citizens’ access and reduce costs while fully respecting the right to due legal process;


### 32. encourages the albanian authorities to reduce the risk of poverty and social exclusion by improving access to social and healthcare services , especially for disadvantaged populations; ### 32. encourages the albanian authorities to reduce the risk of poverty and social exclusion by improving access to social , education and healthcare services , especially for disadvantaged populations , such as the roma and egyptian communities , people with disabilities and people suffering from poverty; urges the approval of the minimum standard of living , as a means to reduce the risk of poverty;


### 33. recalls the conditionality of the eu funding under the ipa iii and the economic and investment plan for the western balkans; ### 33. recalls the conditionality of the eu funding under the ipa iii and the economic and investment plan for the western balkans , while highlighting that any investment must be in line with the objectives of the paris agreement and eu decarbonisation targets;


### 36. commends the fact that albania remains a reliable and committed external policy partner , fully aligning to the eu’s foreign , security and defence policy , and actively contributing to eu crisis-management missions and operations; ### 36. commends the fact that albania remains a reliable and committed external policy partner , fully aligning to the eu’s foreign , security and defence policy , and actively contributing to eu crisis-management missions and operations; warmly welcomes the recent speedy alignment to the sanctions against russia following the russian invasion in ukraine;


### 38. welcomes the albanian government’s continued steps promoting good neighbourly relations and inclusive regional integration by developing a regional economic area; ### 38. calls on the albanian government’s to continue promoting good neighbourly relations and in particular to refocus and increase efforts to work on an inclusive regional integration by implementing and developing the common regional market , thus building on the achievements of the regional economic area , agreed upon within the berlin process in 2017;


### a. whereas bih citizens aspire towards euro-atlantic integration for sustainable peace , democracy and prosperity; ### a. whereas bih citizens aspire towards euro-atlantic integration for sustainable peace , democracy and prosperity; whereas the prospect for a future eu integration was made to the citizens of the western balkans , including those of bih , during the 2003 thessaloniki summit;


### d. whereas the office of the high representative (ohr) and eufor althea are integral in preserving peace; ### d. whereas the office of the high representative (ohr) and eufor althea are integral in preserving peace and in enforcing the dayton peace agreement; whereas the creation of these strong international supervision mechanisms establishes a great degree of responsibility for the international community , including the eu , with regards to the democratic functioning and prosperous and peaceful future of bih;


### f. whereas glorification of convicted war criminals , ethnic segregation and discrimination go against the very essence of the european project; whereas there is an urgent need to effectively outlaw denial of the holocaust , genocide , war crimes and crimes against humanity; ### f. whereas official glorification of convicted war criminals , ethno-nationalistic segregation and discrimination go against the very essence of the european project; whereas there is an urgent need to effectively outlaw denial of the holocaust , genocide , war crimes and crimes against humanity;


### 3. reiterates its clear support for bih’s democratic transformation through european integration , based on sovereignty and territorial integrity , grounded in the principles of equality and non-discrimination of all citizens and constituent peoples as enshrined in the constitution; ### 3. reiterates its clear support for bih’s democratic transformation through european integration , based on sovereignty and territorial integrity , grounded in the principles of equality and non-discrimination of all citizens; reminds that the dayton peace agreement served its purpose to end the war and needs now to be transformed and further developed into a constitution , fully in line with european standards and principles , in order to overcome ethno-nationalistic division and progress on the path towards the eu;


### 5. regrets the impasse in negotiations on electoral law reform in bih and the lack of political will to overcome it; calls on all actors to promptly reach a balanced agreement , to fulfil the constitutional duty of democratic governance and to ensure the transparency and integrity of the electoral process; ### 5. notes the failure of negotiations on electoral law reform in bih to come to a political agreement , and in line with eu principles and values , to be implemented ahead of the october 2022 general elections; calls on all actors to ensure the elections in october 2022 will proceed as scheduled and to ensure the transparency and integrity of the electoral process by immediately implementing the “integrity package”;


### 6. strongly denounces the disregard for international and national norms and obligations , all hate rhetoric and disruptive action , including withdrawal from institutions , particularly by the leadership of the republika srpska entity , which destabilises the country , undermines its statehood in violation of the dayton peace agreement and systematically hampers decisions on key laws and reforms; rejects all attempts to form parallel parastatal institutions , which undermine state institutions , legal order , judicial independence and sovereignty; calls for a full , non-selective and unconditional return to all state institutions; ### 6. strongly denounces the disregard for international and national norms and obligations , all hate rhetoric and disruptive action , including withdrawal from institutions , particularly by the leadership of the republika srpska entity , which destabilises the country , undermines its statehood in violation of the dayton peace agreement and systematically hampers decisions on key laws and reforms; rejects all attempts to form parallel parastatal institutions , which undermine state institutions , legal order , judicial independence and sovereignty and calls on the rs to immediately withdraw and revoke any such laws;


### 7. calls for the eu and the international community to use all available tools , including targeted sanctions , against destabilising actors in the country; ### 7. is of the opinion that the commission and the eeas need to urgently abandon their long-standing non-conclusive appeasement strategy and to finally stop rewarding any ethno-nationalistic policies; urges the eu to come up with a more serious , forceful and credible approach based on democracy and rule of law; therefore , calls on the eu and the international community to use all available tools , including targeted sanctions , against destabilising actors in the country; regrets the amending of the decision-making procedure in the context of the march 2022 extension of the eu sanctions regime for bih; welcomes the decisions by the us and uk authorities to impose sanctions on destabilizing actors including the bosnian serb member of the bih presidency; calls on member states to form a coalition of the willing aligning with the previously established us and uk sanctions in context of the failed attempts to impose eu-wide sanctions; welcomes the recent suspension of eu funds for projects in the rs and calls for a thorough reconsideration and scrutiny of all current eu-funded projects and assistance for and within republika srpska (rs) , including macro-financial assistance and ipa iii funding , with a view to freezing direct and indirect funding that benefits the authorities of this entity and with a view to increasing support for civil society and independent media;


### 8. underlines that the eu future of bih depends on sustainable peace and genuine reconciliation , warranting its democratic , inclusive and multi-ethnic character; urges bih to expedite effective and impartial prosecution of war crimes under the revised national war crimes processing strategy; calls on all regional political leaders to set up the relevant commission (recom); ### 8. underlines that the eu future of bih depends on sustainable peace and genuine reconciliation , among citizens and among high-level politicians alike , reflecting the country’s democratic and multi-ethnic character; urges bih to expedite effective and impartial prosecution of war crimes under the revised national war crimes processing strategy; calls on all regional governments and parliaments to setup the relevant commission (recom);


### 9. encourages authorities to intensify cooperation and data sharing on missing persons and to ensure redress for the families of civilian victims , and the safe return of refugees and internally displaced people , the full respect of their rights and the return of their property; ### 9. welcomes the efforts by local and international organisations , including the international commission on missing persons (icmp) , to account for over 30 000 persons who went missing during the 1990s conflicts in the territory of the former yugoslavia , and more than 8 000 srebrenica genocide victims; recalls that over 7 200 people are still missing , and encourages authorities of the parties to the general framework agreement for peace (gfap) to resume cooperation and data sharing on missing persons and to ensure redress for the families of civilian victims , and the safe return of refugees and internally displaced people , the full respect of their rights and the return of their property on the national and regional level;


### 10. welcomes the amendments to the bih criminal code outlawing the glorification of war criminals and the denial of genocide , crimes against humanity and war crimes; deplores any attempt not to implement this decision; strongly condemns all forms of historical revisionism , denial , or minimisation or glorification of war crimes including non-compliance with decisions of international and domestic tribunals; ### 10. welcomes the amendments to the bih criminal code outlawing the glorification of war criminals and the denial of genocide , crimes against humanity and war crimes; deplores any attempt not to implement this decision; strongly condemns all forms of historical revisionism , denial , or minimisation or glorification of war crimes including non-compliance with decisions of international and domestic tribunals; regrets that the genocide denial law had to be imposed by former high representative inzko since local actors failed to adopt a proposal; calls for the implementation of the amendments and effective investigations of genocide denial;


### 12. stresses the importance of holding elections this year as planned; ### 12. stresses again the importance of holding elections this year as planned; calls on the ohr to stand ready and if necessary to make full use of its mandate in order to ensure the bosnian citizens’ fundamental political rights to free and fair elections , including by the adoption of the integrity package if the local authorities fail to do so; strongly condemns any attempts , including by high-level representatives of croatia , to unduly interfere and to deprive bosnian citizens from their democratic voting rights; condemns recent claims by the croatian president that his country would block the nato accession of finland until the electoral law in bih was reformed; urges croatia to refrain from such misuse of its positions in international organisations to pursue its agenda and meddle in the internal affairs of bih;


### 13. supports transparent and inclusive constitutional and electoral reforms to ensure equality and non-discrimination of all citizens , enhance accountability and transform bih into a fully functional and inclusive state by immediately implementing rulings , opinions and recommendations of competent courts and international bodies; supports transatlantic facilitation efforts to this end; ### 13. supports transparent and inclusive constitutional and electoral reforms to ensure equality and non-discrimination of all citizens , enhance accountability and transform bih into a fully functional and inclusive state by implementing rulings , opinions and recommendations of competent courts and international bodies; supports in particular a long overdue and sustained integration of citizens’ ideas into high-level deliberative efforts;


### 14. calls for the implementation of consistent country-wide merit-based civil service standards , enabling a streamlined , depoliticised and accountable public administration; ### 14. calls for the implementation of consistent country-wide merit-based civil service standards , enabling a streamlined , depoliticised and accountable public administration , that can reduce the corrosive impact of patronage hiring practices that fuel corruption;


### 15. underlines the need to enhance internal and regional economic harmonisation and connectivity; calls for country-wide sector strategies , improvements to strategic planning , financial management , monitoring and evaluation , and the creation of control and audit structures; ### 15. underlines the need to enhance internal and regional economic harmonisation and connectivity; calls for country-wide sector strategies , improvements to strategic planning , financial management , monitoring and evaluation , and the creation of control and audit structures; highlights the need to ensure that international funds enhancing connectivity should aim at harmonising and improving the situation for the whole country;


### 16. recalls the need for laws on gas and electricity , renewables , energy efficiency and climate , and to step up environmental and nature protection; ### 16. recalls the need for state-level laws on gas and electricity , renewables , energy efficiency and climate , and to step up environmental and nature protection and ensure community participation in environmental policymaking; notes that bih is under sanction by the energy community owed to the non-implementation of a state-level gas law due to the continuous resistance of the rs authorities;


### 17. calls for urgent action to tackle widespread selective justice , state capture , nepotism , cronyism , high-level corruption and criminal infiltration; reiterates the urgent need for judicial reform across bih to improve the professionalism and integrity of the judiciary; ### 17. calls for urgent action to tackle widespread selective justice , state capture , nepotism , cronyism , high-level corruption and criminal infiltration; reiterates the urgent need for judicial reform across bih to improve the professionalism and integrity of the judiciary based on the 14 key priorities and with the 2019 priebe report recommendations continuing to be a solid reference document; in that context , calls for the urgent adoption of the conflict of interest law , the public procurement law and amendment to the hjpc law , blocked since 2019;


### 18. recalls the need to update laws and align with the eu on anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism , and to establish an asset recovery office; ### 18. recalls the need to update laws and align with the eu on anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism , on financing of political parties , protection of whistleblowers and to establish an asset recovery office;


### 21. deplores the continuing failure to safeguard media freedom and pluralism; insists on eliminating political interference and protecting journalists from intimidation with systematic judicial follow-up; ### 21. deplores the continuing failure to safeguard media freedom and pluralism; insists on eliminating political interference and on ensuring safety of journalists with systematic and efficient prosecution , including immediate and effective investigative steps following any threats and attacks against journalists; calls on the authorities to assign a special layer of protection to journalists in the criminal codes; notes with concern the problems in the telecom market , notably its lack of plurality and difficulties for new actors to obtain licences and other elements necessary to operate;


### 22. deplores threats from the authorities against civil society; condemns growing restrictions on freedom of expression in the republika srpska entity; ### 22. deplores threats from the authorities against civil society; condemns growing restrictions on freedom of expression and freedom of assembly in the republika srpska entity;


### 24. stresses the need to safeguard the rights of minorities and inclusion of vulnerable populations; calls for stronger country-wide human rights and anti-discrimination strategies; urges the prevention and proactive prosecution of hate crimes , hate speech and disinformation as well as gender-based and sexual violence; ### 24. stresses the need to safeguard the rights of minorities and inclusion of vulnerable populations; calls for stronger country-wide human rights and anti-discrimination strategies; urges the prevention and proactive prosecution of hate crimes , hate speech , discrimination and disinformation as well as gender-based and sexual violence;


### 25. reiterates its call to urgently end segregation and discrimination in education , including by implementing court rulings to end the discriminatory illegal practice of ‘two schools under one roof’; ### 25. reiterates its call to urgently end segregation and discrimination in education , including by implementing court rulings to end the discriminatory illegal practice of ‘two schools under one roof’ , but also by systematically reforming ethnified and divisive curricula that seriously hamper internal mobility and limit the critical thinking skills required to combat the effects of disinformation; calls more specifically for the adoption of a curriculum based on the court-established war related facts in history textbooks;


### 26. deplores the failure of authorities to address the severe migration-related humanitarian crisis; recalls the need for solidarity-based solutions on migration and asylum , ensuring adequate humanitarian assistance and appropriate reception capacities across the country; welcomes the opening of the eu-funded centre in lipa; ### 26. deplores the failure of authorities to address the severe migration-related humanitarian crisis; recalls the need for solidarity-based solutions on migration and asylum , ensuring adequate humanitarian assistance , appropriate and dignified reception capacities across the country , as well as access to effective asylum procedures; is concerned about reports on insufficient reception conditions in the eu-funded centre in lipa; stresses the need to increase transparency and democratic scrutiny in the allocation and implementation of eu funds in the field of migration , notably the large amount of funds implemented by iom; reminds that bih is geographically surrounded by eu member states and strongly denounces that migrants attempting to enter croatia , including to seek international protection in the european union have been violently pushed back by croatia , in flagrant breach of eu human rights , and refugee law and exacerbating the inhuman and degrading conditions of migrants in bih; urgently calls on the commission to hold the croatian government accountable and to start infringement proceedings for the continued patterns of violent pushbacks at the eu border with bih;


### 27. urges bih to reverse the trend of regression on alignment with the eu’s common foreign and security policy , particularly with regard to implementing sanctions against russia and belarus following the invasion of ukraine; calls on bih to strengthen good neighbourly relations; ### 27. urges bih to reverse the trend of regression on alignment with the eu’s common foreign and security policy , particularly with regard to implementing sanctions against russia and belarus following the invasion of ukraine; is concerned by russia’s plans to open a “humanitarian centre” in banja luka , which would serve to camouflage military cooperation as civilian activities and calls on bih authorities to revoke any agreement to open it;


### 28. calls for the eu to take concrete steps to integrate the western balkans and bih within a broader strategic and security context , also in view of the russian aggression against ukraine , disinformation and malign interference destabilising the country and region; ### 28. calls for the eu to take concrete steps to integrate the western balkans and bih within a broader strategic and security context , also in view of the russian war of aggression against ukraine , disinformation and malign interference destabilising the country and region; calls for a further increase of troops , as well as of a deployment of troops to the brčko district; repeats its urgent call to the eu and member states in coordination with nato to come up with a contingency planning for the likely russian unsc veto in november 2022; underlines that eu and nato must ensure that a sufficiently strong force is in place and operational before the election campaign , capable to assume command should that russian veto be cast;


### 31. instructs its president to forward this resolution to the vice-president of the commission / high representative of the union for foreign affairs and security policy , the council , the commission , the presidency of bosnia and herzegovina , the council of ministers of bosnia and herzegovina , the parliamentary assembly of bosnia and herzegovina , the governments and parliaments of the federation of bosnia and herzegovina , the republika srpska and brčko district , and the governments of the ten cantons. ### 31. instructs its president to forward this resolution to the vice-president of the commission / high representative of the union for foreign affairs and security policy , the council , the commission , the presidency of bosnia and herzegovina , the council of ministers of bosnia and herzegovina , the parliamentary assembly of bosnia and herzegovina , the governments and parliaments of the federation of bosnia and herzegovina , the republika srpska and brčko district , the governments of the ten cantons , as well as the office of the high representative.


### — having regard to its previous resolutions on the matter , in particular that of 24 october 2019 on opening accession negotiations with north macedonia and albania1 , its recommendation of 19 june 2020 to the council , the commission and the vice-president of the commission / high representative of the union for foreign affairs and security policy on the western balkans , following the 2020 summit2 , and its resolutions on 2021 commission reports on enlargement countries , ### — having regard to its previous resolutions on the matter , in particular that of 24 october 2019 on opening accession negotiations with north macedonia and albania1 , its recommendation of 19 june 2020 to the council , the commission and the vice-president of the commission / high representative of the union for foreign affairs and security policy on the western balkans , following the 2020 summit2 , and its resolutions on 2021 commission reports on enlargement countries and on candidate status of ukraine , the republic of moldova and georgia of 23 june 2022 ,


### a. whereas enlargement is the most effective eu foreign policy instrument and one of the union’s most successful policies , and it remains a strategic investment in stability and prosperity on the european continent; ### a. whereas enlargement has been the most effective eu foreign policy instrument and one of the union’s most successful policies , but its effectiveness has considerably decreased over the last years due to a failure from the eu side to live up to its promises;


### b. whereas a new impetus is needed to reenergise the enlargement process , ensuring its continuity , consistency , credibility and impact; ### b. whereas a new impetus , commitment and vision is urgently needed to reenergise the enlargement process , ensuring its continuity , consistency , credibility and impact;


### c. whereas the russian invasion of ukraine has prompted three countries with eu association agreements – ukraine , georgia and moldova – to submit membership applications; ### c. whereas the russian war of aggression against ukraine has prompted three countries with eu association agreements – ukraine , georgia and moldova – to submit membership applications;


### recognise that the eu’s prosperity and security rests on its ability to defend democracy , human rights and the rules-based multilateral order; ### recognise that the eu’s prosperity and security rests on its ability


### retain the geostrategic relevance and credibility of the eu by enhancing integration in the areas of common foreign , security and defence policies , and by streamlining its decision-making processes; ### retain the geostrategic relevance and credibility of the eu by enhancing integration in the areas of common foreign , security and defence policies , and by streamlining its decision-making processes; change therefore the unanimity rules in the council in order to take decisions by qualified majority on foreign policy issues , including enlargement;


### avoid using unresolved bilateral disputes to block candidate countries’ accession processes; ### refrain from blocking candidate countries’ accession processes by reference to bilateral issues , in line with article 24 of the teu , the conclusions of the 2003rd council meeting and the 2016 vienna declaration on bilateral disputes of the western balkan states , as well as ensure that such blockages cannot happen in the future by applying qualified majority decision for interim steps and decisions during the process while applying unanimity only for the step of final accession;


### strengthen strategic communication on the benefits of enlargement both in the accession countries and in the member states; ### strengthen strategic communication on the benefits of enlargement both in the accession countries and in the member states , with a special focus on countering disinformation and increase the fight against foreign interference;


### overcome the enlargement gridlock by revamping the accession process both as a political goal and in terms of its methodology; ### overcome the enlargement gridlock by revamping the accession process both as a political goal and in terms of effectively implementing the commission’s revised methodology;


### accelerate the integration of countries that demonstrate strategic orientation and unwavering commitment to eu-related reforms , democratic consolidation and foreign policy alignment; ### accelerate the integration of countries that demonstrate strategic orientation and unwavering commitment to eu-related reforms , democratic consolidation and foreign policy alignment; ensure therefore that each country is assessed on its own merits , and that each country’s progress on the path to accession happens at a rate dependent on its progress in adopting reforms and implementing the eu acquis;


### establish clear , transparent and consistent performance benchmarks , improve the measuring of progress and ensure continued political and technical support throughout the accession process; ### establish clear , transparent and consistent performance benchmarks including timelines , improve the measuring of progress and ensure continued political and technical support throughout the accession process;


### reward progress with a wider phasing-in of candidate countries into respective eu policies and initiatives while sanctioning any backtracking; ### reward progress with a wider phasing-in of candidate countries into respective eu policies and initiatives , including participation in council meetings , inclusion in eu programmes and gradual integration in the eu single market , while sanctioning any backtracking;


### assist bosnia and herzegovina in addressing 14 key priorities , as a precondition for obtaining candidate status; ### support bosnia and herzegovina to improve its legislative and institutional framework to ensure meaningful progress in addressing the 14 key priorities , identified by the commission on 29 may 2019 for obtaining official candidate status and opening of accession negotiations , after the country has held its elections in october 2022 and once the institutions are fully functional and not anymore blocked by ethno-nationalistic parties; ensure that the relevant ecthr verdicts are always the basis of eu policy towards bih and the implementation of these is not an issue to compromise on; calls on the eu delegation to closely involve the venice commission in any negotiations on constitutional or electoral law changes and publicly reject any proposals that are not fully in line with the ecthr verdicts;


### encourage the acceleration of montenegro’s accession process , as the most advanced candidate country; ### encourage the acceleration of montenegro’s accession process , as the most advanced candidate country , including by giving montenegro the closing benchmarks for all negotiating chapters;


### recognise the threat created by russia’s war of aggression by immediately granting eu candidate status to ukraine and continuing to provide political and technical support to moldova and georgia with a view to enabling them to reach this important milestone as soon as possible , as a clear political signal of support to the people of these countries , and a means to accelerate internal reform processes; ### recognise the threat created by russia’s war of aggression by committedly and intensively assisting ukraine and moldova to advance on their accession path and continuing to provide political and technical support to georgia with a view to granting eu candidate status to the country , as a clear political signal of support to the people of these countries , and a means to accelerate internal reform processes;


### step up the eu’s constructive engagement with the authorities of both serbia and kosovo to achieve a comprehensive legally binding normalisation agreement between the two in the framework of the belgrade-pristina dialogue; ### step up the eu’s constructive engagement with the authorities of both serbia and kosovo to achieve a comprehensive legally binding normalisation agreement based on mutual recognition between the two in the framework of the belgrade-pristina dialogue;


### prioritise the alignment of accession countries with the eu’s common foreign and security policy and continue accession negotiations with serbia only if the country aligns with eu sanctions against russia; ### prioritise the alignment of accession countries with the eu’s common foreign and security policy and progress on accession negotiations with serbia only if the country aligns with eu sanctions against russia and makes significant progress on needed reforms in order to join the union; reconsider any eu funds for serbia in this light , in particular any projects financed under the western balkan economic and investment plan , in order to ensure that all eu expenditures are fully in line with the eu’s own strategic goals and interests and not contradictory to them;


### formally suspend accession negotiations with turkey , in accordance with the negotiating framework , until the country reengages with the eu and demonstrates clear and significant progress in eu-related reforms , while continuing partnership in essential areas of joint interest; ### keep accession negotiations with turkey frozen , until the country reengages with the eu and demonstrates clear and significant progress in the field of fundamental freedoms , human rights and the rule of law , as well as other eu-related reforms , while continuing partnership in essential areas of joint interest;


### propose ‘special partnerships’ for countries that do not intend to join the eu or do not fulfil membership criteria; ### deleted


### improve the consistency , efficiency , visibility and transparency of pre-accession assistance; ### improve the consistency , efficiency , visibility and transparency of pre-accession assistance and clearly reflect the priorities in the area of the so-called fundamentals also in the allocation of ipa iii funding;


### strategically apply targeted conditionality based on clear progress benchmarks , rewarding reforms and sanctioning regression or a persistent lack of progress; ### apply conditionality based on clear progress benchmarks , rewarding reforms and sanctioning regression or a persistent lack of progress;


### (ab) foster electoral reforms , democratic pluralism , intra-party democracy , transparency of party and media funding , and judicial and media independence and freedom; ### (ab) foster fundamental reforms , democratic pluralism , intra-party democracy , transparency of party and media funding , and judicial and media independence and freedom;


### (ac) uphold democratic accountability and enhance the parliamentary dimension of the accession process; ### (ac) uphold democratic accountability , increase transparency and inclusiveness and enhance the parliamentary dimension of the accession process;


### (ae) considerably reinforce efforts towards sustainable reconciliation , good neighbourly relations , inclusive regional cooperation and solidarity; ### (ae) considerably reinforce efforts towards sustainable reconciliation , including effective and impartial prosecution of war crimes , ensuring access to truth , justice and effective and non-selective reparations , including to survivors of sexual violence , as well as increase efforts towards good neighbourly relations , inclusive regional cooperation and solidarity;


### (af) step up citizen participation and the involvement of civil society in the enlargement process and invest in the youth and intraregional mobility; ### (af) step up citizen participation , the involvement of civil society in the enlargement process and increase cooperation with and support for a vibrant civil society;


### (ag) advance energy efficiency , connectivity and the transition to renewable energies , increasing the diversification and security of energy supply; ### (ag) advance the clean energy transition , as well as energy efficiency , connectivity , increasing the diversification and security of energy supply , as well as sustainable development;


### 7. stresses the need to work towards an effective , results-oriented and inclusive multilateralism , where governments , civil society , the private sector , academia and other relevant stakeholders can effectively work together to serve and achieve global goals , values and interests; acknowledges the importance of reconciling the two critical eu goals of enhancing the eu’s visibility as a global actor and supporting the role of multilateral fora; recalls the need to address and manage these tensions and to articulate a balanced position between these two goals , in line with the eu’s core values , ideas and interests; ### 7. stresses the need to work towards an effective , results-oriented , values-based , and inclusive multilateralism , where governments , civil society , the private sector , academia and other relevant stakeholders can effectively work together to serve and achieve global goals , values and interests; acknowledges the importance of reconciling the two critical eu goals of enhancing the eu’s visibility and leverage as a global actor and supporting the role of multilateral fora; recalls the need to address and manage these tensions and to articulate a principled and assertive position between these two goals , in line with the eu’s core values , ideas and interests;


### 8. stresses the importance of continuing to reach out to allies and like-minded partners in international organisations and multilateral fora to consolidate a coalition of like-minded countries committed to common values and objectives and to policy dialogue and effective cooperation globally; points , in this regard , to the particular relevance , not only of traditional transatlantic partners such as the us and canada , as well as the uk , but also to countries in latin america; recalls that the eu , the uk , the us , canada and the countries of latin america can create , in partnership together , a broader transatlantic area of common values and standards and a commitment to advancing global responses to global challenges; underlines , in this regard , that this broad transatlantic coalition could expand dialogue and cooperation to african countries and support the latter in their quest for political and economic stability; notes that cooperation between the eu and its northern and southern atlantic partners would empower the political voices that want to build a future for africa premised on democracy , inclusion and prosperity , while being mindful of the need to protect the african continent from the ravages and security threats stemming from climate change; supports , in this regard , efforts by the vp/hr , the council and the commission to further strengthen the eu’s partnership with the african union and the community of latin american and caribbean states; points to the importance of furthering a convergence of positions at the un and other multilateral fora between the eu and both accession and partner countries; calls on the eu to expand its ability to assist partner and like-minded countries , including through capacity building , knowledge-sharing , training and twinning , so that they can engage more effectively in the multilateral system; reiterates the importance of reinforcing the existing multilateral fora with like-minded partners , especially the eu-community of latin american and caribbean states summits; ### 8. stresses the importance of continuing to reach out to allies and like-minded partners in international organisations and multilateral fora to consolidate a coalition of like-minded countries committed to common values and objectives and to policy dialogue and effective cooperation globally; points , in this regard , to the particular relevance , not only of traditional transatlantic partners such as the us and canada , as well as the uk , but also to democracies in latin america and democracies in the indo-pacific region; recalls that the eu , the uk , the us , canada and the democracies of latin america and the indo-pacific can create , in partnership together , a broader international coalition of common values and standards and a commitment to advancing global responses to global challenges; underlines , in this regard , that this broad coalition could expand dialogue and cooperation to african countries and support the latter in their quest for political and economic stability; notes that cooperation between the eu and its northern and southern atlantic partners would empower the political voices that want to build a future for africa premised on democracy , inclusion and prosperity , while being mindful of the need to protect the african continent from the ravages and security threats stemming from climate change; supports , in this regard , efforts by the vp/hr , the council and the commission to further strengthen the eu’s partnership with the african union and the community of latin american and caribbean states; points to the importance of furthering a convergence of positions at the un and other multilateral fora between the eu and both accession and partner countries; calls on the eu to expand its ability to assist partner and like-minded countries , including through capacity building , knowledge-sharing , training and twinning , so that they can engage more effectively in the multilateral system; reiterates the importance of reinforcing the existing multilateral fora with like-minded partners , especially the eu-community of latin american and caribbean states summits;


### 9. supports the eu’s tireless advocacy for and defence of universal human rights , its staunch support for the universalisation of international human rights law , its active support to and use of un human rights fora to address pressing human rights issues , its steadfast support for strengthening accountability and international justice mechanisms and its fight against impunity; supports the vp/hr and the commission in their quest to ensure that the un human rights council acts more efficiently , addresses all human rights issues and country situations effectively , credibly and without bias and ensures synergies with other multilateral human rights fora; pays tribute to the work of the current un high commissioner for human rights and takes the view that her tenure provides a unique opportunity to engage on effective dialogue and cooperation on how to streamline and reinforce the delivery capacity of the un human rights system , including through increased public scrutiny of human rights council membership , responsibilities and mandatory pledging events at the un general assembly with candidates to the human rights council , as proposed by the vp/hr and the commission in their joint communication; welcomes the launch on 12 october 2021 of an annual strategic dialogue with the un high commissioner for human rights; welcomes the eu’s initiatives and activities pertaining to human rights in the un general assembly’s third committee and the un security council , as well as the cooperation between the eu and the un on multiple thematic and country-based human rights issues; ### 9. supports the eu’s tireless advocacy for and defence of universal human rights , its staunch support for the universalisation of international human rights law , its active support to and use of un human rights fora to address pressing human rights issues , its steadfast support for strengthening accountability and international justice mechanisms and its fight against impunity; supports the vp/hr and the commission in their quest to ensure that the un human rights council acts more efficiently and swiftly addresses all human rights issues and country situations effectively , credibly and without bias and ensures synergies with other multilateral human rights fora; pays tribute to the work of the current un high commissioner for human rights and takes the view that her tenure provides a unique opportunity to engage on effective dialogue and cooperation on how to streamline and reinforce the delivery capacity of the un human rights system , including through increased public scrutiny of human rights council membership , responsibilities and mandatory pledging events at the un general assembly with candidates to the human rights council , as proposed by the vp/hr and the commission in their joint communication; welcomes the launch on 12 october 2021 of an annual strategic dialogue with the un high commissioner for human rights; welcomes the eu’s initiatives and activities pertaining to human rights in the un general assembly’s third committee and the un security council , as well as the cooperation between the eu and the un on multiple thematic and country-based human rights issues;