### it is appropriate to establish a multi - species fisheries plan taking into account the dynamics between the stocks of cod , herring and sprat , and also considering the by - catch species of the fisheries for these stocks , namely the baltic stocks of plaice , brill , flounder and turbot . the objective of this plan should be to aim at achieving and maintaining maximum sustainable yields for the stocks concerned . ### it is appropriate to establish a multi - species fisheries plan taking into account the dynamics between the stocks of cod , herring and sprat , and also considering the by - catch species of the fisheries for these stocks , namely the baltic stocks of plaice , brill , flounder and turbot . the objective of this plan should be to restore and maintain stocks of harvested species above levels capable of producing maximum sustainable yield . it should also allow for measures to reduce incidental catches of seabirds and marine mammals .


### the target fishing mortality shall be reached by 2015 and maintained onwards for the stocks concerned within the following ranges : ### the target fishing mortality shall&#160 ; take into account the most recent scientific advice and &#160 ; shall be reached by 2015 and maintained onwards for the stocks concerned within the following ranges :


### the exploitation of cod and pelagic stocks should not jeopardise the sustainability of the stocks taken as by - catches in these fisheries , namely the baltic stocks of plaice , brill , flounder and turbot . therefore , the plan should also aim at ensuring the conservation of these by - catch stocks above biomass levels corresponding to precautionary approach . ### the exploitation of cod and pelagic stocks should not jeopardise the sustainability of the stocks taken as by - catches in these fisheries , namely the baltic stocks of plaice , brill , flounder and turbot . therefore , the plan should also aim at ensuring the conservation of these by - catch stocks above levels capable of producing maximum sustainable yield .


### tools that help potential re - users to find documents available for re - use and the conditions for re - use can facilitate considerably the cross - border use of public sector documents . member states should therefore ensure that practical arrangements are in place that help re - users in their search for documents available for re - use . assets lists , accessible preferably online , of main documents , and portal sites that are linked to decentralised assets lists are examples of such practical arrangements . ### tools that help potential re - users to find documents available for re - use and the conditions for re - use can facilitate considerably the cross - border use of public sector documents . member states should therefore ensure that practical arrangements are in place that help re - users in their search for documents available for re - use . assets lists , accessible preferably online , of main documents , and portal sites that are linked to decentralised assets lists are examples of such practical arrangements . measures to facilitate the authentication of public documents also offer important guarantees to users .


### with a view to achieving the objectives of this directive , the commission shall adopt the list of high value datasets among the documents to which this directive applies , together with the modalities of their publication and re - use . ### member states shall ensure that the high value datasets , listed in annex , are available for free , machine - readable and accessible for download , and accompanied by authentication tools , subject to effective long - term preservation policies , and , where appropriate , via apis . the conditions for re - use shall be compatible with open standard licences . the commission shall be empowered to adopt delegated acts in accordance with article 14 in order to extend the list of categories of high value datasets in annex and in particular to further specify the high value datasets among the documents to which this directive applies , together with the modalities of their publication and re - use .


### in view of ensuring their maximum impact and to facilitate re - use , the high - value datasets should be made available for re - use with minimal legal restrictions and at no cost . they should also be published via application programming interfaces , whenever the dataset in question contains dynamic data . ### in view of ensuring their maximum impact and to facilitate re - use , the high - value datasets should be made available for re - use with minimal legal restrictions and at no cost . they should also be published via application programming interfaces , whenever the dataset in question contains dynamic data . as with other public sector information , they should be accompanied with authentication tools which give users confidence .


### member states shall make practical arrangements facilitating the search for documents available for re - use , such as asset lists of main documents with relevant metadata , accessible where possible and appropriate online and in machine - readable format , and portal sites that are linked to the asset lists . where possible member states shall facilitate the cross - linguistic search for documents . ### member states shall make practical arrangements facilitating the search for documents available for re - use , such as asset lists of main documents with relevant metadata , accessible where possible and appropriate online and in machine - readable format , and portal sites that are linked to the asset lists and authentication tools . where possible member states shall facilitate the cross - linguistic search for documents .


### low infrastructure investment rates in the union during the financial crisis undermined the union ' s ability to boost sustainable growth , competitiveness and convergence . sizeable investments in the european infrastructure are fundamental to meet the union ' s sustainability targets , including the 2030 energy and climate targets . accordingly , support from the investeu fund should target investments into transport , energy , including energy efficiency and renewable energy , environmental , climate action , maritime and digital infrastructure . to maximise the impact and the value added of union financing support , it is appropriate to promote a streamlined investment process enabling visibility of the project pipeline and consistency across relevant union programmes . bearing in mind security threats , investment projects receiving union support should take into account principles for the protection of citizens in public spaces . this should be complementary to the efforts made by other union funds such as the european regional development fund providing support for security components of investments in public spaces , transport , energy and other critical infrastructure . ### low infrastructure investment rates in the union during the financial crisis undermined the union ' s ability to boost sustainable and inclusive growth , competitiveness and convergence . sizeable investments in the european infrastructure , notably interconnection and energy efficiency , are fundamental to meet the union ' s sustainability targets , including the union ' s commitments towards the sdgs , the 2030 energy and climate targets . accordingly , support from the investeu fund should target investments into sustainable development - compatible projects in the field of transport , energy , including energy efficiency and renewable energy , environmental , climate action , maritime and digital infrastructure . investeu should prioritise the most significantly under - invested areas that require the most additional investment to meet the union ' s sustainability targets , such as energy efficiency . to maximise the impact and the value added of union financing support , it is appropriate to promote a streamlined , climate proof investment process enabling visibility of the project pipeline and consistency across relevant union programmes .


### implementing partners shall target that at least 50 % of the investment under the sustainable infrastructure policy window contribute to meeting the union objectives on climate and environment . ### implementing partners shall ensure that at least 60 % of the overall investment contributes to meeting the union objectives on climate and environment in line with the eu commitments made under the paris agreement .


### new effective healthcare products , including pharmaceuticals , medical devices and advanced therapy medicinal products . ### new effective and accessible healthcare products , including pharmaceuticals , medical devices , diagnostics and advanced therapy medicinal products , new antimicrobials and innovative development processes that avoid using animal testing .


### financing and investment operations under the sustainable infrastructure policy window referred to in point of paragraph shall be subject to climate , environmental and social sustainability proofing with a view to minimise detrimental impacts and maximise benefits on climate , environment and social dimension . for that purpose , promoters requesting financing shall provide adequate information based on guidance to be developed by the commission . projects below a certain size defined in the guidance shall be excluded from the proofing . ### financing and investment operations under all policy windows referred to in paragraph shall be subject to climate , environmental and social sustainability proofing and tracking , through minimum sustainability thresholds in the project scoreboards , with a view to minimise detrimental impacts and maximise benefits on climate , environment and social dimension . for that purpose , promoters requesting financing shall provide adequate information based on guidance to be developed by the commission . the commission shall be empowered to adopt this guidance in the form of a delegated act in accordance with article 26 , taking fully into account the criteria established by the [ regulation on the establishment of a framework to facilitate sustainable investment ] for determining whether an economic activity is environmentally sustainable , and in line with eu climate objectives .


### the investeu fund should contribute to improving the competitiveness of the union , including in the field of innovation and digitisation , the sustainability of the union ' s economic growth , the social resilience and inclusiveness and the integration of the union capital markets , including solutions addressing their fragmentation and diversifying sources of financing for the union enterprises . to that end , it should support projects that are technically and economically viable by providing a framework for the use of debt , risk sharing and equity instruments underpinned by a guarantee from the union ' s budget and by contributions from implementing partners . it should be demand - driven while support under the investeu fund should at the same time focus on contributing to meeting policy objectives of the union . ### the investeu fund should contribute to improving the competitiveness and value added of the union ' s productive structure , including in the field of innovation and digitisation , the sustainability and inclusiveness of the union ' s economic growth , the social resilience and the integration of the union capital markets , including solutions addressing their fragmentation and diversifying sources of financing for the union enterprises . to that end , it should support projects that are technically and economically viable by providing a framework for the use of debt , risk sharing and equity instruments underpinned by a guarantee from the union ' s budget and by contributions from implementing partners . projects supported by the investeu fund should focus on providing strategic , long - term societal and environmental benefits in key areas of eu policy which would otherwise not be funded , thus contributing to meeting policy objectives of the union .


### as set out in the reflection paper on the social dimension of europe16 and the european pillar of social rights17 , building a more inclusive and fairer union is a key priority for the union to tackle inequality and foster social inclusion policies in europe . inequality of opportunities affects in particular access to education , training and health . investment in the social , skills and human capital - related economy , as well as in the integration of vulnerable populations in the society , can enhance economic opportunities , especially if coordinated at union level . the investeu fund should be used to support investment in education and training , help increase employment , in particular among the unskilled and long - term unemployed , and improve the situation with regard to intergenerational solidarity , the health sector , homelessness , digital inclusiveness , community development , the role and place of young people in society as well as vulnerable people , including third country nationals . the investeu programme should also contribute to the support of european culture and creativity . to counter the profound transformations of societies in the union and of the labour market in the coming decade , it is necessary to invest in human capital , microfinance , social enterprise finance and new social economy business models , including social impact investment and social outcomes contracting . the investeu programme should strengthen nascent social market eco - system , increasing the supply of and access to finance to micro - and social enterprises , to meet the demand of those who need it the most . the report of the high - level task - force on investing in social infrastructure in europe18 has identified investment gaps in social infrastructure and services , including for education , training , health and housing , which call for support , including at the union level . therefore , the collective power of public , commercial and philanthropic capital , as well as support from foundations , should be harnessed to support the social market value chain development and a more resilient union . __________________ 16 com 206 . 17 com 250 . 18 published as european economy discussion paper 074 in january 2018 . ### as set out in the reflection paper on the social dimension of europe16 , the european pillar of social rights17 and the eu framework on the eu convention on the rights of persons with disabilities , building a more inclusive and fairer union is a key priority for the union to tackle inequality and foster social inclusion policies in europe . inequality of opportunities affects in particular access to education , training and health . investment in the social , skills and human capital - related economy , as well as in the integration of vulnerable populations in the society , can enhance economic opportunities , especially if coordinated at union level . given the significant need for investment into social infrastructure , the investeu fund should be used to support investment in education and training , help increase employment , in particular among the unskilled and long - term unemployed , and improve the situation with regard to gender equality , equal opportunities , intergenerational solidarity , the health sector , homelessness , digital inclusiveness , community development , the role and place of young people in society as well as vulnerable people , including third country nationals . the investeu programme should also contribute to the support of european culture and creativity . to counter the profound transformations of societies in the union and of the labour market in the coming decade , it is necessary to invest in human capital , microfinance , social enterprise finance and new social economy business models , including social impact investment and social outcomes contracting . the investeu programme should strengthen nascent social market eco - system , increasing the supply of and access to finance to micro - and social enterprises , to meet the demand of those who need it the most . the report of the high - level task - force on investing in social infrastructure in europe18 has identified investment gaps in social infrastructure and services , including for education , training , health and housing , which call for support , including at the union level . therefore , the collective power of public , commercial and philanthropic capital , as well as support from foundations , should be harnessed to support the social market value chain development and a more resilient union . __________________ 16 com 206 . 17 com 250 . 18 published as european economy discussion paper 074 in january 2018 .


### projects and enterprises in the fields of environmental resource management and clean technologies ; ### projects and enterprises in the fields of environmental resource management and sustainable technologies ;


### social investment and skills ### gender disaggregated data on social investment and skills


### the financial envelope for the implementation of the measures provided in chapters v and vi shall be eur 525 000 000 . ### the financial envelope for the implementation of the measures provided in chapters v and vi shall be eur 725 000 000 .


### financing and investment operations under the sustainable infrastructure policy window referred to in point of paragraph shall be subject to climate , environmental and social sustainability proofing with a view to minimise detrimental impacts and maximise benefits on climate , environment and social dimension . for that purpose , promoters requesting financing shall provide adequate information based on guidance to be developed by the commission . projects below a certain size defined in the guidance shall be excluded from the proofing . ### financing and investment operations under the policy windows referred to in paragraph shall be subject to climate , environmental and social sustainability proofing with a view to minimise detrimental impacts and maximise benefits on climate , environment and social dimension . for that purpose , promoters requesting financing shall provide adequate information based on guidance to be developed by the commission . projects below a certain size defined in the guidance shall be excluded from the proofing .


### tourism . ### sustainable tourism .


### the scoreboard shall be publicly available after the signature of a financing or investment operation or sub - project , if applicable . the publication shall not contain commercially sensitive information or personal data not to be disclosed under the union data protection rules . ### the scoreboard shall be publicly available before approval of the investment operation . the publication shall not contain commercially sensitive information or personal data not to be disclosed under the union data protection rules .


### whereas the level of overall investment in the union is increasing , investment in higher - risk activities such as research and innovation is still inadequate . the resulting underinvestment in research and innovation is damaging to the industrial and economic competitiveness of the union and the quality of life of its citizens . the investeu fund should provide the appropriate financial products to cover different stages in the innovation cycle and a wide range of stakeholders , in particular to allow the upscaling of and deployment of solutions at a commercial scale in the union , in order to make such solutions competitive on world markets . ### whereas the level of overall investment in the union is increasing , investment in higher - risk activities such as research and innovation is still inadequate . the resulting underinvestment in research and innovation is damaging to the industrial and economic competitiveness of the union and the quality of life of its citizens . the investeu fund should provide the appropriate financial products to cover different stages in the innovation cycle and a wide range of stakeholders , to allow the upscaling of and deployment of solutions at a commercial scale in the union , in coordination with public procurement to address social and environmental needs . particular importance should be given to promoting eu excellence in green technologies at a global level .


### small and medium - sized enterprises play a crucial role in the union . however , they face challenges when accessing finance because of their perceived high risk and lack of sufficient collateral . additional challenges arise from smes ' need to stay competitive by engaging in digitisation , internationalisation and innovation activities and skilling up their workforce . moreover , compared to larger enterprises , they have access to a more limited set of financing sources : they typically do not issue bonds , have only limited access to stock exchanges or large institutional investors . the challenge in accessing finance is even greater for those smes whose activities focus on intangible assets . smes in the union rely heavily on banks and debt financing in the form of bank overdrafts , bank loans or leasing . supporting smes that face the above challenges and providing more diversified sources of funding is necessary for increasing the ability of smes to finance their creation , growth and development , withstand economic downturns , and for making the economy and the financial system more resilient during economic downturn or shocks . this is also complementary to the initiatives already undertaken in the context of the capital markets union . the investeu fund should provide an opportunity to focus on specific , more targeted financial products . ### small and medium - sized enterprises represent over 99% of businesses in the union and their economic value is significant and crucial . however , they face challenges when accessing finance because of their perceived high risk and lack of sufficient collateral . gender disparities also need to be addressed , as female creativity and entrepreneurial potential are an under - exploited source of growth and jobs that should be further developed . additional challenges arise from smes ' need to stay competitive by engaging in digitisation , internationalisation and innovation activities and skilling up their workforce . moreover , compared to larger enterprises , they have access to a more limited set of financing sources : they typically do not issue bonds , have only limited access to stock exchanges or large institutional investors . the lack of access to capital for smes is exacerbated by the comparatively small european private equity industry , and the challenge in accessing finance is even greater for those smes whose activities focus on intangible assets . smes in the union rely heavily on banks and debt financing in the form of bank overdrafts , bank loans or leasing . supporting smes that face the above challenges by simplifying their access to finance and providing more diversified sources of funding is necessary for increasing the ability of smes to finance their creation , growth , innovation and sustainable development , ensure their competitiveness , withstand economic downturns , and for making the economy and the financial system more resilient during economic downturn or shocks . this is also complementary to the initiatives already undertaken in the context of the capital markets union . programmes such as cosme have been important for smes in the they have facilitated access to finance in all phases of their lifecycle , and this was added to by efsi for which there was a quick sme uptake . the investeu fund should therefore build on these successes and provide an opportunity to focus on specific , more targeted financial products .


### low infrastructure investment rates in the union during the financial crisis undermined the union ' s ability to boost sustainable growth , competitiveness and convergence . sizeable investments in the european infrastructure are fundamental to meet the union ' s sustainability targets , including the 2030 energy and climate targets . accordingly , support from the investeu fund should target investments into transport , energy , including energy efficiency and renewable energy , environmental , climate action , maritime and digital infrastructure . to maximise the impact and the value added of union financing support , it is appropriate to promote a streamlined investment process enabling visibility of the project pipeline and consistency across relevant union programmes . bearing in mind security threats , investment projects receiving union support should take into account principles for the protection of citizens in public spaces . this should be complementary to the efforts made by other union funds such as the european regional development fund providing support for security components of investments in public spaces , transport , energy and other critical infrastructure . ### low infrastructure investment rates in the union during the financial crisis undermined the union ' s ability to boost sustainable growth , competitiveness and convergence . sizeable investments in the european infrastructure are fundamental to meet the union ' s sustainability targets , including the 2030 energy and climate targets . accordingly , support from the investeu fund should target investments into transport , energy , including energy efficiency and renewable energy , environmental , climate action , maritime and digital infrastructure . to maximise the impact and the value added of union financing support , it is appropriate to promote a streamlined investment process enabling visibility of the project pipeline and consistency across relevant union programmes .


### research , innovation and digitisation policy window : comprises research and innovation activities , transfer of research results to the market , demonstration and deployment of innovative solutions and support to scaling up of innovative companies other than smes as well as digitisation of union industry ; ### research , innovation and digitisation policy window : comprises research , product development and innovation activities , transfer of technologies and research results to the market , supporting market enablers and cooperation between enterprises , demonstration and deployment of innovative solutions and support to scaling up of innovative companies including start - ups and smes as well as digitisation of union industry , based on the experiences gained , in particular with the innovfin ;


### expansion of the generation , supply or use of clean and sustainable renewable energy ; ### expansion and acceleration of the generation , deployment , supply or use of renewable energy ;


### fees may be charged for the services referred to in paragraph 2 to cover part of the costs for providing those services . ### commensurate fees may be charged for the services referred to in paragraph 2 to cover part of the costs for providing those services .


### production and supply of synthetic fuels from renewable / carbon - neutral sources ; alternative fuels ; ### production and supply of synthetic fuels from renewable sources under the condition of a positive lifecycle impact and efficiency assessment ;


### reflecting the importance of tackling climate change in line with the union ' s commitments to implement the paris agreement and the united nations sustainable development goals , the investeu programme will contribute to mainstream climate actions and to the achievement of an overall target of 25 % of the union budget expenditures supporting climate objectives . actions under the investeu programme are expected to contribute 30 % of the overall financial envelope of the investeu programme to climate objectives . relevant actions will be identified during the investeu programme ' s preparation and implementation and reassessed in the context of the relevant evaluations and review processes . ### reflecting the importance of tackling climate change in line with the union ' s climate related long - term objectives and remaining carbon budget , the union ' s commitments to implement the paris agreement and the united nations sustainable development goals , the investeu programme will contribute to mainstream climate actions and to achieve an overall target of 50 % of the union budget expenditures supporting climate objectives . actions under the investeu programme are expected to contribute at least 60% of the overall financial envelope of the investeu programme to climate objectives . relevant actions will be identified during the investeu programme ' s preparation and implementation and reassessed in the context of the relevant evaluations and review processes . climate mainstreaming and climate proofing mechanisms should be unified by reforming , expanding and centralising the rio market system , in order to differentiate between mitigation and adaptation , and between sectors ; and by ' energy efficiency first ' assessments during infrastructure investment planning , as set out in the regulation on the governance of the energy union , as well as clear exclusion criteria .


### implementing partners shall provide the information necessary to allow the tracking of investment that contributes to meeting the union objectives on climate and environment , based on guidance to be provided by the commission . ### implementing partners shall provide the information necessary to allow the tracking of investment that contributes to meeting the union objectives on climate and environment , based on the guidance to be provided by the commission in accordance with paragraph , fully complying with the criteria established by [ regulation on the establishment of a framework to facilitate sustainable investment ] for determining whether an economic activity is environmentally sustainable and being complementary to the role of the platform on sustainable finance which shall monitor and report regularly to the commission on capital flows towards sustainable investments . .


### climate change actions , including natural hazard disaster risk reduction ; ### climate change actions , including natural hazard disaster risk reduction , climate adaptation and mitigation ;


### sustainable infrastructure policy window : comprises sustainable investment in the areas of transport , energy , digital connectivity , supply and processing of raw materials , space , oceans and water , waste , nature and other environment infrastructure , equipment , mobile assets and deployment of innovative technologies that contribute to the environmental or social sustainability objectives of the union , or to both , or meet the environmental or social sustainability standards of the union ; ### sustainable infrastructure policy window : comprises sustainable investment in the areas of transport , including multimodal transport , road safety , tourism , energy , in particular the increased deployment of renewable energy , energy efficiency in line with the 2030 and 2050 energy frameworks , improving interconnection levels , digital connectivity and access including in rural areas , supply and processing of raw materials , space , oceans , inland water , waste avoidance and the circular economy , nature and other environment infrastructure , equipment , mobile assets and deployment of innovative technologies that contribute to the environmental or social sustainability objectives of the union , or to both , and meet the environmental or social sustainability standards of the union ;


### the scoreboard shall be publicly available after the signature of a financing or investment operation or sub - project , if applicable . the publication shall not contain commercially sensitive information or personal data not to be disclosed under the union data protection rules . ### the scoreboard shall be publicly available before the approval of the investment operation . the publication shall not contain commercially sensitive information , which nevertheless must be made available upon request to members of the european parliament and staff of political groups in a securitised reading room ; or personal data not to be disclosed under the union data protection rules .


### conclusions of the investment committee approving the support of the eu guarantee to a financing or investment operation shall be publicly accessible and shall include the rationale for the approval . the publication shall not contain commercially sensitive information . ### conclusions of the investment committee approving the support of the eu guarantee to a financing or investment operation shall be publicly accessible and shall include the rationale for the approval . the publication shall not contain commercially sensitive information , which nevertheless must be made available upon request to members of the european parliament and staff of political groups in a securitised reading room .


### as set out in the reflection paper on the social dimension of europe16 and the european pillar of social rights17 , building a more inclusive and fairer union is a key priority for the union to tackle inequality and foster social inclusion policies in europe . inequality of opportunities affects in particular access to education , training and health . investment in the social , skills and human capital - related economy , as well as in the integration of vulnerable populations in the society , can enhance economic opportunities , especially if coordinated at union level . the investeu fund should be used to support investment in education and training , help increase employment , in particular among the unskilled and long - term unemployed , and improve the situation with regard to intergenerational solidarity , the health sector , homelessness , digital inclusiveness , community development , the role and place of young people in society as well as vulnerable people , including third country nationals . the investeu programme should also contribute to the support of european culture and creativity . to counter the profound transformations of societies in the union and of the labour market in the coming decade , it is necessary to invest in human capital , microfinance , social enterprise finance and new social economy business models , including social impact investment and social outcomes contracting . the investeu programme should strengthen nascent social market eco - system , increasing the supply of and access to finance to micro - and social enterprises , to meet the demand of those who need it the most . the report of the high - level task - force on investing in social infrastructure in europe18 has identified investment gaps in social infrastructure and services , including for education , training , health and housing , which call for support , including at the union level . therefore , the collective power of public , commercial and philanthropic capital , as well as support from foundations , should be harnessed to support the social market value chain development and a more resilient union . __________________ 16 com 206 . 17 com 250 . 18 published as european economy discussion paper 074 in january 2018 . ### as set out in the reflection paper on the social dimension of europe16 , and the european pillar of social rights17 and the eu framework on the implementation of the un convention on the rights of persons with disabilities , building a more inclusive and fairer union is a key priority for the union to tackle inequality and foster social inclusion policies in europe . inequality of opportunities affects in particular access to education , training , culture , employment and health . investment in the social , skills and human resources - related economy , as well as in the integration of vulnerable populations in the society , can enhance economic opportunities , especially if coordinated at union level . the investeu fund should be used to support investment in education and training , help increase a good quality employment , in particular among the unskilled and long - term unemployed , and improve the situation with regard to equal opportunities , intergenerational solidarity , the health sector , homelessness , digital inclusiveness , community development , the deinstitutionalisation process of children and adults , the role and place of young people in society as well as vulnerable people , including third country nationals . the investeu programme should also contribute to the support of european culture and creativity . to counter the profound transformations of societies in the union and of the labour market in the coming decade , it is necessary to invest in human resources , microfinance and the social economy . the investeu programme should strengthen nascent social market eco - system , increasing the supply of and access to finance to micro - and social enterprises , to meet the demand of those who need it the most . the report of the high - level task - force on investing in social infrastructure in europe18 has identified investment gaps in social infrastructure and services , including for education , training , health , housing , and social inclusion , which call for support , including at the union level . therefore , the collective power of public and private resources should be harnessed to support the social market value chain development and a more resilient union . __________________ 16 com 206 . 17 com 250 . 18 published as european economy discussion paper 074 in january 2018 .


### sustainable infrastructure policy window : comprises sustainable investment in the areas of transport , energy , digital connectivity , supply and processing of raw materials , space , oceans and water , waste , nature and other environment infrastructure , equipment , mobile assets and deployment of innovative technologies that contribute to the environmental or social sustainability objectives of the union , or to both , or meet the environmental or social sustainability standards of the union ; ### sustainable infrastructure policy window : comprises sustainable investment in the areas of transport , including the maintenance or upgrade of existing infrastructure , energy - in particular , the increased deployment of renewable energy , electricity interconnection and energy efficiency investments - , digital connectivity , climate adaptation and mitigation , recycling and processing of raw materials , space , water , waste , avoidance , recycling and reduction and the circular economy , nature and other environment infrastructure , equipment , mobile assets and deployment of innovative technologies that contribute to the environmental or social sustainability objectives of the union , or to both , and meet the environmental or social sustainability standards of the union ;


### the commission should report annually to the european parliament and the council on the financing and investment operations covered by the efsd guarantee with a view to ensuring accountability to the european citizens . the report should be made public in order to allow relevant stakeholders , including civil society , to express their views . the commission should also report annually to the european parliament and the council on the management of the efsd guarantee fund so that accountability and transparency are ensured . ### the commission should report annually to the european parliament and the council on the financing and investment operations covered by the efsd guarantee , and the plans for coming year , with a view to ensuring full accountability to the european citizens . the report should be made public in order to allow relevant stakeholders , including civil society , to express their views . all other documents relating to the fund should be made publicly available , with a limited regime of exceptions . the commission should also report annually to the european parliament and the council on the management of the efsd guarantee fund so that accountability and transparency are ensured .


### the strategic board shall be composed of representatives of the commission and of the high representative of the union for foreign affairs and security policy , of the member states and of the eib . the commission may invite other contributors to become members of the strategic board having regard where appropriate to the view of the board . partner countries and relevant regional organisations , the eligible counterparts and the european parliament may be given observer status , where appropriate . the strategic board shall be co - chaired by the commission and the high representative . ### the strategic board shall be composed of representatives of the commission and of the high representative of the union for foreign affairs and security policy , of the member states , the european parliament and of the eib . the commission shall invite other contributors to become members of the strategic board having regard to the view of the board . relevant regional organisations , and other stakeholders such as civil society groups may be given observer status , where appropriate . the strategic board shall be co - chaired by the commission and the high representative . the strategic board shall ensure proper consultation of a diversity of stakeholders in partner countries .


### the eip should provide an integrated financial package to finance investments starting in regions of africa for countries that are signatories to the partnership agreement between the members of the african , caribbean and pacific group of states of the one part , and the european community and its member states , of the other part , signed in cotonou on 23 june 200022 and the neighbourhood countries , thereby creating growth and employment opportunities , maximising additionality , delivering innovative products , and crowding - in private sector funds . __________________ 22 oj l 317 , 15 . 12 . 2000 as last amended by oj l 287 , 4 . 11 . 2010 ### the eip should provide an integrated financial package to finance investments starting in regions of africa for countries that are signatories to the partnership agreement between the members of the african , caribbean and pacific group of states of the one part , and the european community and its member states , of the other part , signed in cotonou on 23 june 200022 and the neighbourhood countries , making sure not to increase debt risks or macroeconomic vulnerability , thereby supporting longer term development through creating sustained growth and employment opportunities , with particular focus on gender equality and the empowerment of women and youth , supporting the implementation of the eu gender action plan , ensuring additionality , and crowding - in private sector funds , while respecting human rights , and not creating negative environmental externalities .


### the union ' s ambitious external investment plan is needed to support investments starting in africa and the union ' s neighbourhood as a means to promote the sustainable development goals of the united nations 2030 agenda for sustainable development as well as the commitments under the recently revised european neighbourhood policy thus addressing root causes of migration . it should also contribute to the implementation of the paris agreement on climate change . ### the member states ' ambitious external investment plan is a possible means of supporting investments starting in africa and the union ' s neighbourhood as a means to promote the sustainable development goals of the united nations 2030 agenda for sustainable development . it should also contribute to the implementation of the paris agreement on climate change .


### the commission shall submit an annual report to the european parliament and to the council on the financing and investment operation covered by the efsd guarantee . this report shall be made public . it shall include the following elements : ### the commission shall submit an annual report to the european parliament and to the council on the financing and investment operation covered by the efsd guarantee . that report shall be made public . it shall include the following elements , which shall be presented in a country - specific format :


### contribute to economic and social development , with particular focus on sustainability and job creation , thus addressing root causes of migration and contributing to sustainable reintegration of returned migrants in their countries of origin ; ### contribute to economic and social development , with particular focus on sustainability and sustainable job creation ;


### moreover , the strategic board should support the commission in setting strategic guidance and overall investment goals . the strategic board should also support coordination and coherence between the regional platforms . this should ensure complementarity of the various instruments in external action . the strategic board should be co - chaired by the commission and the high representative of the union for foreign affairs and security policy to ensure consistency and coherence with union external policy objectives and partnership frameworks with third countries . ### moreover , the strategic board should support the commission in setting strategic guidance and overall investment goals . the strategic board should also support coordination , cooperation and coherence between the regional platforms . this should ensure complementarity and strengthen synergies of the various instruments in external action . the strategic board should be co - chaired by the first vice - president of the commission and the high representative of the union for foreign affairs and security policy to ensure consistency and coherence with union external policy objectives and partnership frameworks with third countries .


### maximise the mobilisation of private sector capital . ### maximise , wherever relevant , the mobilisation of private sector capital ;


### ' additionality ' means the principle ensuring that the efsd guarantee support may not be aimed at replacing the support of a member state , private funding or another union financial intervention , as well as that it is aimed at addressing market failures and avoiding crowding out other public or private investments . ### ' additionality ' means the principle ensuring that the efsd support , including via blending facilities , contributes to sustainable development by achieving positive results above and beyond what could have been achieved without the support . financial interventions may not be aimed at replacing the support of a member state or third country , private funding or another union financial intervention or by an international financial institution .


### possible contributions from member states and other contributors ; ### contributions from member states amounting to at least one third of the contributions from the general budget of the union ;


### the union ' s ambitious external investment plan is needed to support investments starting in africa and the union ' s neighbourhood as a means to promote the sustainable development goals of the united nations 2030 agenda for sustainable development as well as the commitments under the recently revised european neighbourhood policy thus addressing root causes of migration . it should also contribute to the implementation of the paris agreement on climate change . ### the union ' s ambitious external investment plan intends to support investments starting in africa and the union ' s neighbourhood as a means to promote the sustainable development goals of the united nations 2030 agenda for sustainable development . it should also contribute to the implementation of the paris agreement on climate change .


### the strategic board shall be composed of representatives of the commission and of the high representative of the union for foreign affairs and security policy , of the member states and of the eib . the commission may invite other contributors to become members of the strategic board having regard where appropriate to the view of the board . partner countries and relevant regional organisations , the eligible counterparts and the european parliament may be given observer status , where appropriate . the strategic board shall be co - chaired by the commission and the high representative . ### the strategic board shall be composed of representatives of the commission and of the high representative of the union for foreign affairs and security policy , of the member states , of the european parliament , of the eib and of the african and neighbourhood partner countries . the commission shall invite other contributors to become members of the strategic board having regard to the view of the board . relevant regional organisations and other stakeholders such as civil society groups may be given observer status , where appropriate . the strategic board shall be co - chaired by the commission and the high representative . the strategic board shall ensure that a diverse range of stakeholders in partner countries is properly consulted .


### contribute to economic and social development , with particular focus on sustainability and job creation , thus addressing root causes of migration and contributing to sustainable reintegration of returned migrants in their countries of origin ; ### contribute to economic and social development , with particular focus on sustainability , providing young people , and in particular women , with the right skills and decent job creation ;


### in order to increase the impact of the efsd guarantee in view of the needs in the regions concerned , member states should have the possibility of providing contributions in the form of a guarantee or cash . those contributions could be earmarked by region , sector or investment window . ### in order to increase the impact of the efsd guarantee in view of the needs in the regions concerned , member states should provide contributions in the form of a guarantee or cash .


### in accordance with its transparency policies and general union principles on access to documents and information , the eligible counterparts shall make publicly available on their websites information relating to all financing and investment operations covered by the efsd guarantee under this regulation , relating in particular to the manner in which those operations contribute to the requirements of this regulation . ### extensive minutes of the meetings of the strategic and operational boards shall be published without delay . the scoreboard of indicators shall be made public once an operation under the guarantee is approved . in accordance with its transparency policies and general union principles on access to documents and information , the eligible counterparts shall make publicly available on their websites all information and documents relating to all financing and investment operations covered by the efsd guarantee under this regulation , with a strictly limited regime of exceptions .


### the eip should incorporate the union commitment under the addis ababa action agenda on financing for development . it should also allow european investors and private companies , including small and medium - sized enterprises , to participate more effectively to sustainable development in partner countries . ### the eip should incorporate the union commitment under the addis ababa action agenda on financing for development . it should allow investors and private companies , including small and medium - sized enterprises , to participate more effectively to sustainable development in partner countries in line with the union development and neighbourhood policies .


### by 31 december 2020 and every three years thereafter , the commission shall evaluate the use of the efsd guarantee fund . the commission shall submit its evaluation report to the european parliament and the council . that evaluation report shall be accompanied by an opinion of the court of auditors . ### by 31 december 2020 and every three years thereafter , the commission shall evaluate the use and the functioning of the efsd guarantee fund . the commission shall submit its evaluation report to the european parliament and the council . that evaluation report shall be accompanied by an opinion of the court of auditors on the management of the efsd guarantee fund and the effectiveness and additionality of efsd operations . where adjustments to the efsd guarantee fund are deemed necessary or in the event that the efsd guarantee fund is extended beyond 2020 , that evaluation report shall be accompanied by a legislative proposal to amend this regulation accordingly .


### the efsd shall contribute to the achievement of the sustainable development goals of the 2030 agenda with a particular focus on sustainable growth , job creation , socio - economic sectors and on the support to micro , small and medium sized enterprises , thus addressing root causes of migration and contributing to sustainable reintegration of returned migrants in their countries of origin while maximising additionality , delivering innovative products and crowding in private sector funds . ### the efsd shall contribute to the achievement of the sustainable development goals of the 2030 agenda , and operate in respect of development effectiveness principles like alignment to partner countries ' priorities , untied aid and mutually agreed conditionalities , with a particular focus on sustainable growth , job creation , socio - economic sectors and on the support to micro , small and medium sized enterprises while ensuring additionality and crowding in private sector funds .


### olaf may carry out investigations , including on - the - spot checks and inspections , in accordance with the provisions and procedures laid down in regulation no 883 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council , council regulation no 2185 / 96 and council regulation no 2988 / 95 in order to protect the financial interests of the union , with a view to establishing whether there has been fraud , corruption , money laundering or any other illegal activity affecting the financial interests of the union in connection with any financing and investment operations covered by this regulation . olaf may transmit any information obtained in the course of its investigations to the competent authorities of the member states concerned . ### olaf may carry out investigations , including on - the - spot checks and inspections , in accordance with the provisions and procedures laid down in regulation no 883 / 2013 of the european parliament and of the council , council regulation no 2185 / 96 and council regulation no 2988 / 95 in order to protect the financial interests of the union , with a view to establishing whether there has been fraud , corruption , embezzlement , money laundering financing of terrorism , tax fraud and tax evasion , or any other illegal activity affecting the financial interests of the union in connection with any financing and investment operations covered by this regulation . olaf may transmit any information obtained in the course of its investigations to the competent authorities of the member states concerned .


### the external audit of the activities undertaken in accordance with this regulation shall be carried out by the court of auditors in accordance with article 287 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union . ### the external audit of the activities undertaken in accordance with this regulation shall be carried out by the court of auditors in accordance with article 287 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union and is thus subject to the discharge procedure in accordance with article 319 tfeu .


### the commission shall review the national forestry accounting plans and technical corrections and assess the extent to which the proposed new or corrected forest reference levels have been determined in accordance with the principles and requirements set out in paragraphs and as well as article 5 . to the extent that this is required in order to ensure compliance with the principles and requirements set out in paragraphs and as well as article 5 , the commission may recalculate the proposed new or corrected forest reference levels . ### in order to provide transparency , credibility and oversight , the commission , in line with its role as guardian of the treaties especially with respect to climate , shall review the national forestry accounting plans submitted wherever possible by the member states and technical corrections and assess the extent to which the proposed new or corrected forest reference levels have been determined in accordance with the principles and requirements set out in paragraphs and as well as article 5 . to the extent that this is required in order to ensure compliance with the principles and requirements set out in paragraphs and as well as article 5 , the commission may recalculate the proposed new or corrected forest reference levels .


### member states shall account for emissions and removals resulting from managed grassland calculated as emissions and removals in the periods from 2021 to 2025 and from 2026 to 2030 minus the value obtained by multiplying by five the member state’s average annual emissions and removals resulting from managed grassland in its base period 2005 - 2007 . ### member states shall account for emissions and removals resulting from managed grassland calculated as emissions and removals in the periods from 2021 to 2025 and from 2026 to 2030 minus the value obtained by multiplying by five the member state’s average annual emissions and removals resulting from managed grassland in its base period 2005 - 2007 , maintaining net - net accounting of agricultural land , in line with accounting standards agreed upon on the international level , which count emissions against a historical baseline of cropland and grazing land .


### the commission shall report to the european parliament and to the council by 28 february 2024 and every five years thereafter on the operation of this regulation , its contribution to the eu ' s overall 2030 greenhouse gas emission reduction target and its contribution to the goals of the paris agreement , and may make proposals if appropriate . ### the commission shall review the ambition of this proposal after the 2018 facilitative dialogue . it shall report to the european parliament and to the council by 28 february 2024 and every five years thereafter on the operation of this regulation , its contribution to the eu ' s overall 2030 greenhouse gas emission reduction target and its contribution to the long term goals of the paris agreement , and may make proposals if appropriate .


### when the commission chooses to be assisted by an expert review team in accordance with commission decision 3301 ) in the review of national forestry accounting plans , it should build on the good practice and experience of the expert reviews under the unfccc , including as regards participation of national experts and recommendations , and select a sufficient number of experts from the member states . ### when the commission , as a fair and objective party and guardian of the treaties responsible inter alia for the environment , chooses to be assisted by an expert review team in accordance with commission decision 3301 ) in the review of national forestry accounting plans , it should build on the good practice and experience of the expert reviews under the unfccc , including as regards participation of national experts and recommendations , and select a sufficient number of experts from the member states .


### member states shall account for emissions and removals resulting from managed forest land , calculated as emissions and removals in the periods from 2021 to 2025 and from 2026 to 2030 minus the value obtained by multiplying by five its forest reference level . a forest reference level is an estimate of the average annual net emissions or removals resulting from managed forest land within the territory of the member state in the periods from 2021 to 2025 and from 2026 to 2030 . ### member states shall account for emissions and removals resulting from managed forest land , calculated as emissions and removals in the periods from 2021 to 2025 and from 2026 to 2030 minus the value obtained by multiplying by five the annual average emissions and removals in the forest reference period . a forest reference period is an estimate of the average annual net emissions or removals resulting from managed forest land within the territory of the member state in the period from1990 to 2009 ;


### the commission shall report to the european parliament and to the council by 28 february 2024 and every five years thereafter on the operation of this regulation , its contribution to the eu ' s overall 2030 greenhouse gas emission reduction target and its contribution to the goals of the paris agreement , and may make proposals if appropriate . ### the commission shall review the ambition of this proposal after the 2018 facilitative dialogue . it shall report to the european parliament and to the council by 28 february 2024 and every two years thereafter on the operation of this regulation , its contribution to the eu ' s overall 2030 greenhouse gas emission reduction target and its contribution to the long - term goals of the paris agreement , and may make proposals if appropriate .


### depending on national preferences , member states should be able to choose adequate national policies for achieving their commitments in lulucf , including the possibility of compensating emissions from one land category by removals from another land category . they should also be able to cumulate net removals over the period 2021 - 2030 . trading among member states should continue as an additional option to help compliance . following the practice in the second commitment period of the kyoto protocol , there should also be a possibility for a member state to use its overachievement under regulation [ ] on binding annual greenhouse gas emission reductions by member states from 2021 to 2030 for a resilient energy union and to meet commitments under the paris agreement and amending regulation no 525 / 2013 of the european parliament and the council on a mechanism for monitoring and reporting greenhouse gas emissions and other information relevant to climate change in order to ensure its compliance with its commitment under this regulation . ### depending on national preferences , member states should be able to choose adequate national policies for achieving their commitments in lulucf , including the possibility of compensating emissions from one land category by removals from another land category . they should also be able to cumulate net removals over the period 2021 - 2030 . trading among member states should continue as an additional option to help compliance . following the practice in the second commitment period of the kyoto protocol , there should also be a limited possibility for a member state upon fulfilment of certain criteria to use its overachievement under regulation [ ] on binding annual greenhouse gas emission reductions by member states from 2021 to 2030 for a resilient energy union and to meet commitments under the paris agreement and amending regulation no 525 / 2013 of the european parliament and the council on a mechanism for monitoring and reporting greenhouse gas emissions and other information relevant to climate change in order to ensure its compliance with its commitment under this regulation without compromising the overall level of ambition in ghg reduction targets of the union .


### member states that have chosen to include managed wetland in the scope of their commitments in accordance with article 2 shall account for emissions and removals resulting from managed wetland , calculated as emissions and removals in the periods from 2021 to 2025 and / or from 2026 to 2030 minus the value obtained by multiplying by five the member state’s average annual emissions and removals resulting from managed wetland in its base period 2005 - 2007 . ### member states shall account for emissions and removals resulting from managed wetland , calculated as emissions and removals in the periods from 2021 to 2025 and / or from 2026 to 2030 minus the value obtained by multiplying by five the member state’s average annual emissions and removals resulting from managed wetland in its base period 2005 - 2007 .


### for the period from 2021 to 2025 and from 2026 to 2030 , taking into account the flexibilities provided for in article 11 , each member state shall ensure that emissions do not exceed removals , calculated as the sum of total emissions and removals on their territory in the land accounting categories referred to in article 2 combined , as accounted in accordance with this regulation . ### for the period from 2021 to 2025 and from 2026 to 2030 each member state shall endeavour to increase their removals and ensure that emissions at least do not exceed removals , calculated as the sum of total emissions and removals on their territory in the land accounting categories referred to in article 2 combined , as accounted in accordance with this regulation , in line with union long term climate objectives and the commitments under the paris agreement .


### member states that have chosen to include managed wetland in the scope of their commitments in accordance with article 2 shall account for emissions and removals resulting from managed wetland , calculated as emissions and removals in the periods from 2021 to 2025 and / or from 2026 to 2030 minus the value obtained by multiplying by five the member state’s average annual emissions and removals resulting from managed wetland in its base period 2005 - 2007 . ### member states that have chosen to include managed wetland in the scope of their commitments in accordance with article 2 shall account for emissions and removals resulting from managed wetland , calculated as emissions and removals in the periods from 2021 to 2025 and from 2026 to 2030 minus the value obtained by multiplying by five the member state’s average annual emissions and removals resulting from managed wetland in its base period 2005 - 2007 .


### member states shall account for emissions and removals resulting from managed forest land , calculated as emissions and removals in the periods from 2021 to 2025 and from 2026 to 2030 minus the value obtained by multiplying by five its forest reference level . a forest reference level is an estimate of the average annual net emissions or removals resulting from managed forest land within the territory of the member state in the periods from 2021 to 2025 and from 2026 to 2030 . ### member states shall account for emissions and removals resulting from managed forest land , calculated as emissions and removals in the periods from 2021 to 2025 and from 2026 to 2030 minus the value obtained by multiplying by five annual average emissions and removals in the forest reference period . a forest reference period is an estimate of the average annual net emissions or removals resulting from managed forest land within the territory of the member state in the period from 1990 to 2009 .


### in order to support the efforts of member states and regions in facing new challenges and ensuring a high level of security for their citizens as well as the prevention of radicalisation , while relying on the synergies and complementarities with other union policies , investments under the erdf should contribute to security in areas where there is a need to ensure safe and secure public spaces and critical infrastructure , such as transport and energy . ### in order to support the efforts of member states and regions in facing new challenges and ensuring a high level of security for their citizens as well as inclusiveness for all citizens , involving a prevention policy to avoid marginalisation or radicalisation , while relying on the synergies and complementarities with other union policies , investments under the erdf should contribute to security in areas where there is a need to ensure safe and secure public spaces and critical infrastructure , such as transport and energy , as well as to the sustainability of cohesive societies , ensuring open cultural and public spaces .


### improving access to inclusive and quality services in education , training and life long learning through developing infrastructure ; ### improving access to inclusive and quality services in culture , education , training , life long learning and sport through developing infrastructure ;


### this regulation should set out the different types of activities the costs of which may be supported by means of investments from the erdf and the cohesion fund , under their respective objectives as set out in the tfeu . the cohesion fund should be able to support investments in the environment and in ten - t . with regard to the erdf , the list of activities should be simplified and it should be able to support investments in infrastructure , investments in relation to access to services , productive investments in sme ' s , equipment , software and intangible assets , as well as measures with regard to information , communication , studies , networking , cooperation , exchange of experiences and activities involving clusters . in order to support the programme implementation , both funds should also be able to support technical assistance activities . finally , in order to support provide for a broader range of interventions for interreg programmes , the scope should be enlarged to also include the sharing a broad range of facilities and human resources and costs linked to measures within the scope of the esf + . ### this regulation should set out the different types of activities the costs of which may be supported by means of investments from the erdf and the cohesion fund , under their respective objectives as set out in the tfeu . the cohesion fund should be able to support investments in the environment and in ten - t . with regard to the erdf , the list of activities should be simplified and it should be able to support investments in infrastructure , investments in relation to access to services , with a particular focus on disadvantaged , marginalised and segregated communities , productive investments in sme ' s , equipment , software and intangible assets , as well as measures with regard to information , communication , studies , networking , cooperation , exchange of experiences and activities involving clusters . in order to support the programme implementation , both funds should also be able to support technical assistance activities . finally , in order to support provide for a broader range of interventions for interreg programmes , the scope should be enlarged to also include the sharing a broad range of facilities and human resources and costs linked to measures within the scope of the esf + .


### in an increasingly interconnected world and in view of the demographic and migration dynamics , it is clear that union migration policy requires a common approach that relies on the synergies and complementarities of the different funding instruments . in order to ensure coherent , strong and consistent support for solidarity and responsibility - sharing efforts between member states in managing migration , the erdf should provide support to facilitate the long - term integration of migrants . ### in an increasingly interconnected world and in view of the demographic and migration dynamics , it is clear that union migration policy requires a common approach that relies on the synergies and complementarities of the different funding instruments . in order to ensure coherent , strong and consistent support for solidarity and responsibility - sharing efforts between member states in managing migration , the erdf should provide support to facilitate the long - term integration of migrants , irrespective of their residence status . member states should ensure that local and regional authorities have access to erdf resources to be made available to them to an adequate extent for the purpose of tackling migrant integration at local and regional level .


### the beneficiary , after submitting the application , shall continue to comply with the admissibility conditions referred to in paragraph 1 throughout the period of implementation of the operation and for a period of five years after the final payment to that beneficiary . ### the beneficiary , after submitting the application , shall continue to comply with the admissibility conditions referred to in paragraph 1 throughout the period of implementation of the operation and after the final payment to that beneficiary .


### the construction and acquisition of fishing vessels or the importation of fishing vessels , unless otherwise provided for in this regulation ; ### the construction , acquisition or modernisation of fishing vessels , including through engine replacement or the importation of fishing vessels , unless otherwise provided for in this regulation ;


### it should be possible for the emff to support innovation and investments on board fishing vessels in order to improve health , safety and working conditions , energy efficiency and the quality of catches . such support should , however , not lead to an increase of fishing capacity or ability to find fish and should not be granted simply for complying with requirements that are obligatory under union or national law . under the architecture with no prescriptive measures , it should be up to member states to define the precise eligibility rules for those investments . with regard to health , safety and working conditions on board fishing vessels , a higher aid intensity rate than the one that applies to other operations should be allowed . ### it should be possible for the emff to support innovation and investments on board fishing vessels in order to improve health , safety and working conditions , energy efficiency and the quality of catches as well as support to specific health care issues . such support should , however , not lead to an increase of fishing capacity or ability to find fish and should not be granted simply for complying with requirements that are obligatory under union or national law . under the architecture with no prescriptive measures , it should be up to member states to define the precise eligibility rules for those investments and support . with regard to health , safety and working conditions on board fishing vessels , a higher aid intensity rate than the one that applies to other operations should be allowed .


### the implementation of this regulation should be guided by the five priorities established in the global strategy for the european union’s foreign and security policy 59 , presented on 19 june 2016 , which represents the union ' s vision and the framework for united and responsible external engagement in partnership with others , to advance its values and interests . the union should enhance partnerships , promote policy dialogue and collective responses to challenges of global concern . its action should support the union’s interests and values in all its aspects , including preserving peace , preventing conflicts , strengthening international security , fighting root causes of irregular migration and assisting populations , countries and regions confronting natural or man - made disasters , supporting trade policy , economic diplomacy and economic cooperation , promoting digital solutions and technologies , and fostering the international dimension of union’s policies . in promoting its interests , the union should comply with , and promote , the principles of respect for high social and environmental standards , for the rule of law , for international law and for human rights . _________________ 59 ' shared vision , common action : a stronger europe . a global strategy for the european union ' s foreign and security policy ' , june 2016 . ### the implementation of this regulation should be guided by the five priorities established in the global strategy for the european union’s foreign and security policy 59 , presented on 19 june 2016 , which represents the union ' s vision and the framework for united and responsible external engagement in partnership with others , to advance its values and interests . the union should enhance partnerships , promote policy dialogue and collective responses to challenges of global concern . its action should support the union’s interests and values in all its aspects , including preserving peace , preventing conflicts , strengthening international security , fighting root causes of forced migration and displacement and assisting populations , countries and regions confronting natural or man - made disasters , supporting a fair , sustainable and human rights compliant trade policy , economic diplomacy and economic cooperation , promoting digital solutions and technologies , and fostering the international dimension of union’s policies . in promoting its interests , the union should comply with , and promote , the principles of respect for high social and environmental standards , for the rule of law , for international law and for human rights . _________________ 59 ' shared vision , common action : a stronger europe . a global strategy for the european union ' s foreign and security policy ' , june 2016 .


### the general objective of this regulation is to uphold and promote the union ' s values and interests worldwide in order to pursue the objectives and principles of the union ' s external action , as laid down in article 3 , articles 8 and 21 of the treaty on european union . ### the general objective of this regulation is to uphold and promote the union ' s values and interests worldwide in order to pursue the objectives and principles of the union ' s external action , as laid down in article 3 , articles 8 and 21 of the treaty on european union , as well as in articles 11 and 208 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union .


### on 20 june 2017 , the council endorsed the union response to the ' un 2030 agenda for sustainable development’ - a sustainable european future . the council underlined the importance of achieving sustainable development across the three dimensions , in a balanced and integrated way . it is vital that sustainable development is mainstreamed into all union internal and external policy areas , and that the union is ambitious in the policies it uses to address global challenges . the council welcomed the commission communication on ' next steps for a sustainable european future ' of 22 november 2016 as a first step in mainstreaming the sustainable development goals and applying sustainable development as an essential guiding principle for all union policies , including through its financing instruments . ### on 20 june 2017 , the council endorsed the union response to the ' un 2030 agenda for sustainable development’ - a sustainable european future . the council underlined the importance of achieving sustainable development across the three dimensions , in a balanced and integrated way . it is vital that sustainable development is mainstreamed into all union internal and external policy areas , and that the union is ambitious in the policies it uses to address global challenges . the council welcomed the commission communication on ' next steps for a sustainable european future ' of 22 november 2016 as a first step in mainstreaming the sustainable development goals and applying sustainable development as an essential guiding principle for all union policies , including through its financing instruments . the esf + can make a particular contribution to implementing the sustainable development goals by halving relative poverty and eradicating extreme forms of poverty ; quality and inclusive education , promoting gender equality , promoting sustained , inclusive and sustainable economic growth , full and productive employment and decent work for all , and reducing inequality as well as the paris agreement .


### the esf + should aim to promote employment through active interventions enabling integration into the labour market , notably for youth , the long - term unemployed and the inactive , as well as through promoting self–employment and the social economy . the esf + should aim to improve the functioning of labour markets by supporting the modernisation of labour market institutions such as the public employment services in order to improve their capacity to provide intensified targeted counselling and guidance during the job search and the transition to employment and to enhance workers’ mobility . the esf + should promote women ' s participation in the labour market through measures aiming to ensure , amongst others , improved work / life balance and access to childcare . the esf + should also aim to provide a healthy and well - adapted working environment in order to respond to health risks related to changing forms of work and the needs of the ageing workforce . ### the esf + should aim to promote high - quality employment through active interventions enabling integration into the labour market , notably for youth , persons with disabilities and people with chronic diseases , the long - term unemployed and the economically inactive , as well as those facing multiple forms of discrimination through promoting self–employment and the social economy . the esf + should aim to improve the functioning of labour markets by supporting the modernisation of labour market institutions such as the public employment services in order to improve their capacity to provide intensified targeted counselling and guidance during the job search and the transition to employment and to enhance workers’ mobility . the esf + should promote participation of women and sustainable employment that guarantees equal opportunities with special attention to single mothers in the labour market through measures aiming to ensure , amongst others , the respect of the principle of equal pay for work of equal value , improved work / life balance and access to affordable childcare and other care services or support to foster gender equality . the esf + should also aim to provide a healthy and well - adapted working environment in order to respond to health risks related to changing forms of work and the needs of the ageing workforce .


### promoting women’s labour market participation , a better work / life balance including access to childcare , a healthy and well–adapted working environment addressing health risks , adaptation of workers , enterprises and entrepreneurs to change , and active and healthy ageing ; ### promoting gender equality in all areas by ensuring women’s economic independence and labour market participation respecting the principle of equal pay for equal work and for work of equal value , and offering at least a living wage , a better work / life balance including equal access to affordable , inclusive and non - segregated quality early childhood education and childcare and other care services or support , a healthy and well–adapted working environment addressing health risks and disease risk factors , adaptation of workers , enterprises and entrepreneurs to change , and active and healthy ageing ;


### the union is confronted with structural challenges arising from economic globalisation , the management of migration flows and the increased security threat , clean energy transition , technological change and an increasingly ageing workforce and growing skills and labour shortages in some sectors and regions , experienced especially by smes . taking into account the changing realities of the world of work , the union should be prepared for the current and future challenges by investing in relevant skills , making growth more inclusive and by improving employment and social policies , including in view of labour mobility . ### the union is confronted with structural challenges arising from social inequalities , economic globalisation , the management of migration flows and related inclusion challenges , clean energy transition , technological change , demographic challenges , unequal access to education and social protection , unbalanced distribution of care responsibilities , an increasingly ageing workforce , lack of employment opportunities and growing skills and labour shortages in some sectors and regions , experienced especially by smes . taking into account the changing realities of the world of work , the union should be prepared for the current and future challenges by engaging in the just transition , investing in quality and inclusive education and training , lifelong learning and skills , making labour markets more inclusive and by improving employment , education and social policies , including in view of labour mobility and by fighting against gender gaps and women’s discrimination .


### at union level , the european semester of economic policy coordination is the framework to identify national reform priorities and monitor their implementation . member states develop their own national multiannual investment strategies in support of those reform priorities . those strategies should be presented alongside the yearly national reform programmes as a way to outline and coordinate priority investment projects to be supported by national and / or union funding . they should also serve to use union funding in a coherent manner and to maximise the added value of the financial support to be received notably from the programmes supported by the union under the european regional development fund , the cohesion fund , the european social fund plus , the european maritime and fisheries fund and the european agricultural fund for rural development , the european investment stabilisation function and investeu , where relevant . ### at union level , the european semester of economic policy coordination is the framework to identify national reform priorities and monitor their implementation . member states develop their own national multiannual investment strategies in support of those reform priorities . those strategies should be developed in partnership between national , regional and local authorities , include a gender perspective and be presented alongside the yearly national reform programmes as a way to outline and coordinate priority investment projects to be supported by national and / or union funding . they should also serve to use union funding in a coherent manner and to maximise the added value of the financial support to be received notably from the programmes supported by the union under the european regional development fund , the cohesion fund , the european social fund plus , the european maritime and fisheries fund and the european agricultural fund for rural development , the european investment stabilisation function and investeu , where relevant .


### the member states and the commission should ensure that esf + contributes to the promotion of equality between women and men in accordance with article 8 tfeu to foster equality of treatment and opportunities between women and men in all areas , including regarding participation in the labour market , terms and conditions of employment and career progression . they should also ensure that the esf + promotes equal opportunities for all , without discrimination in accordance with article 10 tfeu and promotes the inclusion in society of persons with disabilities on equal basis with others and contributes to the implementation of the united nations convention on the rights of persons with disabilities . these principles should be taken into account in all dimensions and in all stages of the preparation , monitoring , implementation and evaluation of programmes , in a timely and consistent manner while ensuring that specific actions are taken to promote gender equality and equal opportunities . the esf + should also promote the transition from residential / institutional care to family and community - based care , in particular for those who face multiple discrimination . the esf + should not support any action that contributes to segregation or to social exclusion . regulation no [ future cpr ] provides that rules on eligibility of expenditure are to be established at national level , with certain exceptions for which it is necessary to lay down specific provisions with regard to the esf + strand under shared management . ### the member states and the commission should ensure that esf + contributes to the promotion of equality between women and men in accordance with article 8 tfeu to foster equality of treatment and opportunities between women and men in all areas , including regarding participation in the labour market , terms and conditions of employment and career progression as well as the economic independence of women , education and skills upgrading and the reintegration of female victims of violence into society and into the labour market . synergies and policy coherence with the rights and values programme in this should ensure that esf + can mainstream and upscale actions . the commission and the member states should ensure that the esf + promotes equal opportunities for all , without discrimination in accordance with article 10 tfeu and promotes the inclusion in society of persons with disabilities on equal basis with others and contributes to the implementation of the united nations convention on the rights of persons with disabilities . these principles should be taken into account in all dimensions and in all stages of the preparation , monitoring , implementation and evaluation of programmes , in a timely and consistent manner while ensuring that specific actions are taken to promote gender equality and equal opportunities . the esf + should also promote the transition from residential / institutional care to family and community - based care , in particular for those who face multiple discrimination . the esf + should not support any action that does not respect fundamental rights as set out in the charter of fundamental rights and , in particular , actions that contribute to segregation or to social exclusion or the reproduction of gender stereotypes . regulation no [ future cpr ] provides that rules on eligibility of expenditure are to be established at national level , with certain exceptions for which it is necessary to lay down specific provisions with regard to the esf + strand under shared management .


### the esf + should provide support to improving the quality , effectiveness and labour market relevance of education and training systems in order to facilitate the acquisition of key competences notably as regards digital skills which all individuals need for personal fulfilment and development , employment , social inclusion and active citizenship . the esf + should help progression within education and training and transition to work , support lifelong learning and employability , and contribute to competitiveness and societal and economic innovation by supporting scalable and sustainable initiatives in these fields . this could be achieved for example through work - based learning and apprenticeships , lifelong guidance , skills anticipation in cooperation with industry , up - to - date training materials , forecasting and graduate tracking , training of educators , validation of learning outcomes and recognition of qualifications . ### the esf + should provide support to improving the quality , accessibility and non - discriminatory nature of education and training systems in order to facilitate the acquisition of key competences notably as regards digital skills which all individuals need for personal fulfilment and development , employment , social inclusion and active citizenship . the esf + should help progression within education and training and transition to work , support lifelong learning and employability , and contribute to social cohesion , the reduction of horizontal and vertical segregation and societal and economic innovation by supporting scalable and sustainable initiatives in these fields . this could be achieved for example through high - quality work - based learning and apprenticeships , lifelong guidance , skills anticipation in cooperation with industry , up - to - date training materials , forecasting and graduate tracking , training of educators , support for informal and non - formal learning , validation of learning outcomes and recognition of qualifications and prior learning .


### modernising labour market institutions and services to assess and anticipate skills needs and ensure timely and tailor - made assistance and support to labour market matching , transitions and mobility ; ### modernising labour market institutions and services to assess and anticipate skills needs and ensure timely and tailor - made assistance and support to labour market matching , transitions across the life - cycle and mobility ;


### all programmes implemented under the esf + strand under shared management , as well as the operations supported by the employment and social innovation and health strands shall ensure equality between men and women throughout their preparation , implementation , monitoring and evaluation . they shall also promote equal opportunities for all , without discrimination based on sex , racial or ethnic origin , religion or belief , disability , age or sexual orientation throughout their preparation , implementation , monitoring and evaluation . ### all programmes implemented under the esf + strand under shared management , as well as the operations supported by the employment and social innovation and health strands shall ensure gender equality throughout their preparation , implementation , monitoring and evaluation . these programmes and operations shall include increasing the participation and progress of women in employment , combating the feminisation of poverty , gender stereotypes and intersecting discrimination in the labour market , education and training in the frame of gender mainstreaming obligations , which shall be matched with a technical capacity for gender mainstreaming . they shall also promote equal opportunities and accessibility for all , without discrimination based on sex , racial or ethnic origin , nationality , residence or employment status , religion or belief , disability , age , sexual orientation , throughout their preparation , implementation , monitoring and evaluation .


### esf + lays down provisions intended to achieve freedom of movement for workers on a non - discriminatory basis by ensuring the close cooperation of the central employment services of member states with one another and with the commission . the european network of employment services should promote a better functioning of the labour markets by facilitating the cross - border mobility of workers and a greater transparency of information on the labour markets . the esf + scope also includes developing and supporting targeted mobility schemes with a view to filling vacancies where labour market shortcomings have been identified . ### esf + lays down provisions intended to achieve freedom of movement for workers on a non - discriminatory basis by ensuring the close cooperation of the central employment services of member states with one another and with the commission . the european network of employment services should promote a better functioning of the labour markets by facilitating the cross - border mobility of workers and a greater transparency , with gender - disaggregated data of information on the labour markets as well as greater skills recognition . the esf + scope also includes developing and supporting targeted mobility schemes with a view to filling vacancies where labour market shortcomings have been identified .


### the esf + should aim to promote employment through active interventions enabling integration into the labour market , notably for youth , the long - term unemployed and the inactive , as well as through promoting self–employment and the social economy . the esf + should aim to improve the functioning of labour markets by supporting the modernisation of labour market institutions such as the public employment services in order to improve their capacity to provide intensified targeted counselling and guidance during the job search and the transition to employment and to enhance workers’ mobility . the esf + should promote women ' s participation in the labour market through measures aiming to ensure , amongst others , improved work / life balance and access to childcare . the esf + should also aim to provide a healthy and well - adapted working environment in order to respond to health risks related to changing forms of work and the needs of the ageing workforce . ### the esf + should aim to promote quality employment through active interventions enabling integration into the labour market , notably for youth , persons with disabilities and people with chronic diseases , the long - term unemployed , the economically inactive , people from marginalised communities as well as those facing multiple forms of discrimination , through promoting self–employment and the social economy . the esf + should aim to improve the functioning of labour markets by supporting the modernisation and flexibility towards various target groups of labour market institutions such as the public employment services in order to improve their capacity to provide intensified targeted and individual counselling and guidance during the job search and the transition to employment and to facilitate workers’ mobility . the esf + should promote participation of women in sustainable and high - quality employment through measures aiming to ensure , amongst others , the respect of the principle of equal pay for equal work . the esf + should aim to improve work / life balance and access to affordable childcare and life - cycle care services for working parents and carers in order to facilitate their participation in quality employment and as such fight poverty among workers with caring responsibilities . the esf + should also aim to provide a healthy and well - adapted working environment in order to respond to health risks related to changing forms of work and the needs of the ageing workforce . the esf + should also support measures aimed to facilitate the transition of young people between education and employment , with special attention to youth from disadvantaged and marginalised backgrounds .