### 24. highlights that the eppo has the authority to investigate serious offences against the common vat system where they are associated with the territory of two or more member states and involve a total loss of at least eur 10 million; notes that in 2021 , the eppo investigated 91 such cases involving estimated losses of eur 2.5 billion; welcomes the commission’s initiative for a second transposition report on the pif directive , due in the third quarter of 2022 , which will also focus on the appropriateness of the eur 10 million vat threshold; ### 24. highlights that the eppo has the authority to investigate serious offences against the common vat system where they are associated with the territory of two or more member states and involve a total loss of at least eur 10 million and that , acting as a single transnational prosecution office , it brings unprecedented efficiency in the fight against vat fraud; notes that in in particular 2021 , the eppo investigated 91 such cases involving estimated losses of eur 2.5 billion; welcomes the commission’s initiative for a second transposition report on the pif directive , due in the third quarter of 2022 , which will also focus on the appropriateness of the eur 10 million vat threshold;


### 41. remarks that olaf actively cooperates with the european court of auditors (eca) , eurojust , and europol; welcomes the joint efforts of olaf and europol to assess the threats and vulnerabilities of the rrf instrument and their cooperation with other commission services entrusted with supervising the rrf (dg economic and financial affairs and the commission secretariat-general); appreciates the publication of the joint olaf/europol report entitled ‘assessing the threats to the nextgenerationeu (ngeu) fund’; ### 41. remarks that olaf actively cooperates with the european court of auditors (eca) , eurojust , and europol; welcomes the joint efforts of olaf and europol to assess the threats and vulnerabilities of the rrf instrument and their cooperation with other commission services entrusted with supervising the rrf (dg economic and financial affairs and the commission secretariat-general); appreciates the joint olaf/europol report entitled ‘assessing the threats to the nextgenerationeu (ngeu) fund’;


### 51. believes that uneven and fragmentary legislation across eu member states represents an obstacle to the effectiveness of the protection of the union’s financial interests; ### 51. believes that uneven and fragmentary legislation across eu member states represents an obstacle to the effectiveness of the protection of the union’s financial interests , in particular , the diverse implementation of the pif directive , combined with the rules in article 25 of the eppo regulation , makes is impossible for the eppo to exercise its competence in some member states (for example with regard to smuggling and co-financing situations) creating loopholes in the protection of eu financial interests;


### i. whereas combating all forms of money laundering , financing of terrorism and harmful tax practices should remain a constant priority of the eib; ### i. whereas combating all forms of money laundering , financing of terrorism and organised crime and harmful tax practices should remain a constant priority of the eib;


### 34. welcomes the performance in 2020 of the first compliance risk assessment by the office of the chief compliance officer (occo) , aimed at identifying the compliance risk exposure of the eib’s business activities in the geographical locations in which it operates , including exposure to money laundering and financing of terrorism (ml-ft) risks as well as sanctions , non-compliant jurisdictions/tax good governance , market integrity , conduct and procurement risks; remarks that in 2020 , the key risk indicators were updated in the ml-ft dashboard to offer more granular information on ml-ft related risks; ### 34. welcomes the performance in 2020 of the first compliance risk assessment by the office of the chief compliance officer (occo) , aimed at identifying the compliance risk exposure of the eib’s business activities in the geographical locations in which it operates , including exposure to money laundering and financing of terrorism (ml-ft) and organised crime risks as well as sanctions , non-compliant jurisdictions/tax good governance , market integrity , conduct and procurement risks; remarks that in 2020 , the key risk indicators were updated in the ml-ft dashboard to offer more granular information on ml-ft related risks;


### 36. notes that the eib group anti-money laundering and combating financing of terrorism (aml-cft ) framework was revised in december 2020 , taking stock of the 5th aml directive , and that a comprehensive eib group aml-cft policy was adopted in july 2021; takes the view that effective coordination with other relevant competent authorities is material to the success of the policy; ### 36. notes that the eib group anti-money laundering and combating financing of terrorism (aml-cft ) framework was revised in december 2020 , taking stock of the 5th aml directive , and that a comprehensive eib group aml-cft and organised crime policy was adopted in july 2021; takes the view that effective coordination with other relevant competent authorities is material to the success of the policy;


### 37. reiterates its calls for the extension of the right of access to information by the european court of auditors (eca) in respect of eib operations implementing eu policies; regrets the fact that the commission and the eib refer to the definition of the eca’s mandate as laid out in the tfeu in order to prevent the court from accessing information related to eib operations whose sole reason to exist is the implementation of the eu policies; ### 37. reiterates its calls for the extension of the right of access to information by the european court of auditors (eca) and the european parliament in respect of eib operations implementing eu policies; regrets the fact that the commission and the eib refer to the definition of the eca’s mandate as laid out in the tfeu in order to prevent the court from accessing information related to eib operations whose sole reason to exist is the implementation of the eu policies;


### d. whereas on a regular basis , different media outlets all over europe provide their readers with scandals covering fraud , conflict of interest , corruption and other illegal activities damaging the euʼs financial interests and involving high-level political representatives in eu member states; ### d. whereas on a regular basis , different media outlets all over europe provide their readers with scandals covering fraud , conflict of interest , corruption and other illegal activities damaging the euʼs financial interests and involving high-level political representatives in eu member states , sometimes adopting the structure of , or supported by , criminal organisations;


### e. whereas the pandora papers published on 3 october 2021 by the international consortium of investigative journalists represent the latest major data leak , exposing more than 330 politicians and public officials from almost 100 countries , including 35 current or former heads of states and governments involved in corporate secrecy and offshore tax evasion and avoidance; ### e. whereas the pandora papers published on 3 october 2021 by the international consortium of investigative journalists represent the latest major data leak , exposing more than 330 politicians and public officials from almost 100 countries , including 35 current or former heads of states and governments involved in corporate secrecy and offshore tax evasion and avoidance; whereas this scandal follows on from other similar cases yet there has been no effective intervention;


### f. whereas parliament has adopted numerous resolutions through which it has been calling on the commission to take prompt action and to remedy the alarming misuse of eu funds by politically prominent wealthy individuals , elites and big conglomerates; ### f. whereas parliament has adopted numerous resolutions through which it has been calling on the commission to take prompt action and to remedy the alarming misuse of eu funds by politically prominent wealthy individuals , elites and big conglomerates; whereas the commission has yet to take action on this matter;


### 1. notes that , in today’s society , ‘oligarchy’ refers to any small , cohesive class or group that is in a position to make decisions or command others in either political or non-political contexts or rule a political community in its own interest , without regard for democracy; ### 1. notes that , in today’s society , ‘oligarchy’ refers to any small , cohesive class or group that is in a position to make decisions or command others in either political or non-political contexts or rule a political community in its own interest , without regard for democratic rules and sometimes violating fundamental principles;


### 2. adds that in the current eu political context , the term ‘oligarchy’ is being used as a way of pointing out the influence of the wealthy and powerful in politics and government , an influence that is typically used to benefit the few at the expense of the many; ### 2. adds that in the current eu political context , the term ‘oligarchy’ is being used as a way of pointing out the influence of the wealthy and powerful in politics and government , and that of economic , financial and industrial actors , who can exercise an influence that is typically used to benefit the few at the expense of the many;


### 3. notes , with particular concern , that the occurrence of such oligarchic groups , which sometimes do not refrain from using criminal practices , has reached an unprecedented magnitude in the past several years; ### 3. notes , with particular concern , that the occurrence of such oligarchic groups , which sometimes do not refrain from using criminal practices or the support of criminal groups , has reached an unprecedented magnitude in the past several years;


### 4. considers that promoting competition , enhancing transparency and assuring functional implementation of public procurement rules and free access to markets is fundamental to prevent oligarchs from seizing control of the economy and financial market , which would result in them self-reinforcing; ### 4. considers that promoting competition , enhancing transparency and assuring functional implementation of public procurement rules and free access to markets is fundamental to prevent oligarchs from seizing control of the economy and financial market , which will result in them self-reinforcing to an even greater degree;


### 11. points out that conflicts of interest do not only occur in relation to fraud and criminal conduct; stresses nevertheless that the consequent detection and disclosure of conflicts of interest is paramount to identifying possible risks of misuse , bias , fraud and corruption in fund management , as well as preventing reputational harm; ### 11. points out that conflicts of interest do not only occur in relation to fraud and criminal conduct; stresses nevertheless that the consequent detection and disclosure of conflicts of interest is paramount to identifying possible risks of misuse , bias , fraud and corruption in fund management , as well as preventing reputational harm; stresses that situations involving conflicts of interest sow suspicion and distrust among european citizens , and spread the feeling that there is a lack of transparency;


### 13. emphasises that as far as cohesion policy is concerned , the most frequently detected types of fraudulent irregularities for projects financed under the programming period 2014-2020 for european structural and investment funds concern incorrect , missing and false or falsified supporting documents , infringement of contract provisions , eligibility and infringement of public procurement rules , and breaches in relation to ethics and integrity including conflict of interest and corruption; ### 13. emphasises that as far as cohesion policy is concerned , the most frequently detected types of fraudulent irregularities for projects financed under the programming period 2014-2020 for european structural and investment funds concern incorrect , missing and false or falsified supporting documents , infringement of contract provisions , eligibility and infringement of public procurement rules , and breaches in relation to ethics and integrity including conflict of interest and corruption; considers it essential to standardise data collection to ensure that data can be shared and accessed in such a way as to allow cross-checking between member states;


### 16. appreciates olafʼs long-term intensive investigative activity covering many politically controversial and complex cases; regrets that the indictment rate following recommendations by olaf to member states decreased from 53 % in the 2007-2014 period to 37 % in the 2016-2020 period; further notes that the extent to which financial amounts recommended for recovery are actually recovered has not been assessed in recent years , and that the most recent assessment covering the years 2009 to 2016 indicates a recovery rate of 21 %; calls on olaf and the commission to investigate the underlying reasons and calls on the member states to cooperate closely with eu bodies to ensure that funds misused by organised crime and oligarchs are recovered; ### 16. appreciates olafʼs long-term intensive investigative activity covering many politically controversial and complex cases; regrets that the indictment rate following recommendations by olaf to member states decreased from 53 % in the 2007-2014 period to 37 % in the 2016-2020 period; further notes that the extent to which financial amounts recommended for recovery are actually recovered has not been assessed in recent years , and that the most recent assessment covering the years 2009 to 2016 indicates a recovery rate of 21 %; calls on olaf and the commission to investigate the underlying reasons and calls on the member states to cooperate closely with eu bodies to ensure that funds misused by organised crime , including mafia groups , and oligarchs are recovered;


### 19. commends the invaluable work carried out by olaf , the eppo and europol in combating fraud , money laundering and tax evasion , and stresses that these institutions are chronically understaffed and lacking financial resources due to the unwillingness of the council as one of the budgetary authorities to authorise sufficient human and financial resources during the annual budgetary procedure; calls therefore on the council to review its position and allow for increased financing of human resources for these agencies and offices , enabling them to carry out their important mission in an appropriate and effective way; ### 19. commends the invaluable work carried out by olaf , the eppo and europol in combating fraud , money laundering and tax evasion , and stresses that these institutions are chronically understaffed and lacking financial resources due to the unwillingness of the council as one of the budgetary authorities to authorise sufficient human and financial resources during the annual budgetary procedure; calls therefore on the council to review its position and allow for increased financing of human resources for these agencies and offices , enabling them to carry out their important mission in an appropriate and effective way; welcomes the joint analysis efforts of olaf and europol to assess the threats and vulnerabilities of the rrf instrument;


### 20. underlines that the commission should use all the instruments available under eu financial legislation and the applicable sector-specific and financial rules to effectively protect the eu budget , including interruption of payment deadlines , suspension of payments , financial corrections or exclusion of expenditure from eu financing , infringement proceedings under article 258 tfeu , checks and audits or , in duly justified cases , the application of article 7 teu addressing risks to the foundational values of the eu in the member states , as has recently been done in the cases of poland and hungary; ### 20. underlines that the commission should use all the instruments available under eu financial legislation and the applicable sector-specific and financial rules to effectively protect the eu budget , including interruption of payment deadlines , suspension of payments , financial corrections or exclusion of expenditure from eu financing , infringement proceedings under article 258 tfeu , checks and audits or , in duly justified cases , the application of article 7 teu addressing risks to the foundational values of the eu in the member states;


### 21. calls for the use of the early detection and exclusion system (edes) to be made compulsory under shared management; further notes that the edes does not distinguish between subsidiaries of larger corporations; calls for the mandatory use of the arachne data mining and data enrichment tool by member states in order to achieve more transparency on the beneficiaries of cap funds; ### 21. calls for the use of the early detection and exclusion system (edes) to be made compulsory under shared management; further notes that the edes does not distinguish between subsidiaries of larger corporations; calls for the extensive use of the arachne data mining and data enrichment tool by member states in order to achieve more transparency on the beneficiaries of cap funds;


### 22. is of the view that none of the above-mentioned remedies exclude the use of the ‘rule-of-law conditionality mechanism’ , as defined in the conditionality regulation , in cases where the commission considers that other instruments are not sufficiently effective to protect the eu budget; underlines , moreover , that contrary to the scope of the eppo regulation , which is not in force in five member states , the conditionality regulation applies directly and equally to all member states; ### deleted


### 23. regrets that , since 1 january 2021 , the commission has been unable to take any appropriate action to apply the conditionality regulation , which entered into force on that day; regrets deeply that after months of debating , parliament has been forced to take legal action against the commission under article 265 tfeu for failure to apply the conditionality regulation; ### deleted


### 25. underlines the important role of investigative journalists in the fight against fraud and illegal activities that negatively impact the eu budget; reiterates in this regard the need to protect investigative journalism from strategic lawsuits against public participation (slapps) , as well as personal harassment , intimidation and threats to life; ### 25. underlines the important role of investigative journalists in the fight against fraud and illegal activities that negatively impact the eu budget; reiterates in this regard the need to protect investigative journalism from strategic lawsuits against public participation (slapps) , as well as personal harassment , intimidation and threats to life; stresses the importance of encouraging whistleblowing while ensuring legal safeguards under european law;


### 28. points out that under the rrf regulation , which forms part of the mff 2021-2027 package , the member states have to ensure the effective prevention , detection and correction of conflicts of interest , corruption and fraud , and avoidance of double funding; stresses that they are also required to explain the relevant arrangements in their recovery and resilience plans and include a summary of the consultation process at national level as well as a presentation of the controls and audit system put in place to ensure that the financial interests of the eu are protected; ### 28. points out that under the rrf regulation , which forms part of the mff 2021-2027 package , the member states have to ensure the effective prevention , detection and correction of conflicts of interest , corruption and fraud , avoidance of double funding , fictitious registration of assets , as well as transparency in the payment of funds and strengthening of the rules on the correct identification of the final recipient of funds; stresses that they are also required to explain the relevant arrangements in their recovery and resilience plans and include a summary of the consultation process at national level as well as a presentation of the controls and audit system put in place to ensure that the financial interests of the eu are protected;


### 29. underlines that in order to protect the financial interests of the eu and to detect fraud , corruption and conflicts of interest in particular , it is important to know how eu funds are spent and who truly benefits from eu funds , since the largest beneficiaries often hide behind complex ownership structures; ### 29. underlines that in order to protect the financial interests of the eu and to detect fraud , corruption and conflicts of interest in particular , it is important to know how eu funds are spent and who truly benefits from eu funds , since the largest beneficiaries often hide behind complex ownership structures , including those based in tax havens , rendering the identification process even more opaque;


### 34. concludes that even though the new mff uses certain tools such as increased amounts budgeted for special instruments and a budgetary mechanism to uphold the rule of law , there is still space for additional tools to strengthen anti-oligarch practices which could be addressed in the framework of the upcoming revision of the financial regulation; ### 34. concludes that even though the new mff uses certain tools such as increased amounts budgeted for special instruments , there is still space for additional tools to strengthen anti-oligarch practices which could be addressed in the framework of the upcoming revision of the financial regulation;


### 39. notes the adoption in march 2019 of the eib group whistleblowing policy and takes note of its compliance with the general principles and standards integrated in the directive (eu) 2019/1937 , entered into force at a later time; regrets that the policy applies solely to cases of internal whistleblowing; ### 39. notes the adoption in march 2019 of the eib group whistleblowing policy and takes note of its compliance with the general principles and standards integrated in the directive (eu) 2019/1937 , entered into force at a later time; regrets that the policy applies solely to cases of internal whistleblowing; expects the eib's whistle-blower protection policy to be ambitious and to set high standards; urges the eib to include both internal and external whistle-blowers and to establish clear and well-defined procedures , time frames and guidelines in order to provide whistle-blowers with the best guidance and protect them from any possible retaliation;


### 2. shares with concern the court’s observation that to compensate for a shortage of posts the authority relies increasingly on consultants and interim staff , which may pose risks of inadequate supervision of complex work by external contractors and contractual litigation issues; ### 2. shares with concern the court’s observation that to compensate for a shortage of posts the authority relies increasingly on consultants and interim staff , which may pose risks of inadequate supervision of complex work by external contractors and contractual litigation issues; urges the authority to make sure that contracts avoid any confusion between the procurement of services and of interim workers;


### 12. regrets that the bureau of the committee in 2020 adopted a decision allowing for the reimbursement of expenses for remote participation in cases where a member was prevented from travelling to brussels as a result of covid-19 related issues. ### 12. regrets that in 2020 the bureau of the committee adopted a decision allowing for the reimbursement of expenses for remote participation in cases where a member was prevented from travelling to brussels as a result of covid-19 related issues; asks the committee to present a report on the financial impact of this decision including the reasons for the reimbursement;


### 15. welcomes the fact that during 2019 , the it security officer remained active in raising user cybersecurity awareness for staff , including a briefing for the it steering committee and sectoral briefings at the level of individual departments; notes that the committee together with the committee of regions (‘cor’) actively contributed to the ‘2019 european cybersecurity month’ campaign; ### 15. welcomes the fact that during 2019 , the it security officer remained active in raising user cybersecurity awareness for staff , including a briefing for the it steering committee and sectoral briefings at the level of individual departments; notes that in 2019 , two additional projects were launched concerning cybersecurity; encourages the committee to continue its close cooperation with other committees , especially the committee of regions , to further develop synergies;


### 22. is aware of the new service level agreement launched in 2019 between parliament and the committee which allows the committee to benefit from the services of parliament’s interpreters (for which payment will be made) every time the committee uses parliament’s premises for its meetings and occasionally also in the committee’s premises; acknowledges that the agreement contributes to the optimisation of the use of the interpreters of parliament; ### 22. is aware of the new service level agreement launched in 2019 between parliament and the committee which allows the committee to benefit from the services of parliament’s interpreters (for which payment will be made) every time the committee uses parliament’s premises for its meetings and occasionally also in the committee’s premises; acknowledges that the agreement contributes to the optimisation of the use of the interpreters of parliament; welcomes the existing cooperation agreements between parliament , the committee and the committee of the regions with a view to identifying other areas in which back-office functions could be shared; invites the committee to identify further potential synergies and savings;


### 39. is aware that the committee continues to implement its action plan 2017-2020 for equal opportunities and diversity; notes that gender balance among the committee's managerial staff already reached parity in 2018 and remains relatively stable; welcomes the ‘united in diversity’ conference on communication in a multicultural environment with the aim of fostering respectful relations at work while taking diversity into account; observes the slight improvement in the geographical balance compared to 2018 with 19 % of the committee’s managers currently being from member states who joined the union after 2004 (compared to 16 % in 2017 and 18 ,5 % in 2018); ### 39. is aware that the committee continues to implement its action plan 2017-2020 for equal opportunities and diversity; welcomes the ‘united in diversity’ conference on communication in a multicultural environment with the aim of fostering respectful relations at work; notes with concern the overrepresentation of certain nationalities in the committee’s staff; urges the committee to develop specific measures to address this imbalance; asks the committee to ensure geographical balance as addressed in rule 4 of the rules of procedure for members of the bureau;


### 46. asks the committee to inform the discharge authority on the procedures and processes the committee has rolled out or intends to roll out as to how cases of harassment or similar issues concerning staff will be avoided in the future in order to ensure that comparable regrettable developments which have caused negative publicity and damaged the reputation of the committee will not be repeated; ### 46. urges the committee to inform the discharge authority on the procedures and processes the committee has rolled out or intends to roll out as to how cases of harassment or similar issues concerning staff will be avoided in the future in order to ensure that comparable regrettable developments which have caused negative publicity and damaged the reputation of the committee will not be repeated;


### 49. acknowledges that the committee is well aware of the political impact of the refusal of the 2018 discharge and is striving to further strengthen its capacity to tackle harassment situations; notes that a detailed action plan will be endorsed at the latest by the end of 2020; agrees that the committee continues to raise staff and management awareness through better targeted internal communication; ### 49. acknowledges that the committee is well aware of the political impact of the refusal of the 2018 discharge and is striving to further strengthen its efforts to tackle harassment situations; notes that the directorate of human resources and finances and the internal auditor prepared a revision of the ethics and integrity framework; agrees that the committee continues to raise staff and management awareness through better targeted internal communication; asks the committee to provide the parliament with a complete overview of all actions undertaken;


### 50. underlines that on the basis of the observations made by parliament’s committee on budgetary control , the report by olaf and the reflections of the committee’s advisory committee on the conduct of members , the committee set up a joint internal working group on the ethical framework with a mandate to review all potential gaps in the current framework with a view to recommending improvements; notes that the advisory committee also has the opportunity to liaise with the joint internal working group in order to ensure coherence of the overall ethical framework within the committee and to explore possible synergies; ### 50. underlines that on the basis of the observations made by parliament’s committee on budgetary control , the report by olaf and the reflections of the committee’s advisory committee on the conduct of members , the committee set up a joint internal working group on the ethical framework with a mandate to review all potential gaps in the current framework with a view to recommending improvements; notes that the advisory committee also has the opportunity to liaise with the joint internal working group in order to ensure coherence of the overall ethical framework within the committee and to explore possible synergies; notes that the advisory committee on the conduct of members became the ethical committee and that a provision on the appointment of reserve members has been added , as well as the possibility for one of its member to recuse himself or herself , or to be removed if found guilty of breaching the code of conduct; welcomes the fact that the committee has now explicit investigative powers in order to carry out its mission , and may also seek advice from external experts;


### 51. calls on the committee to report on the implementation of the committee’s revised code of conduct and rules of procedure following the 2018 olaf investigation; notes that the bureau has decided on a partial and light revision of the rules of procedure and a more comprehensive revision of the code of conduct , with a particular view to strengthening sanctions; notes that the revision of the code of conduct should be ready by december 2020; ### 51. welcomes the fact that the committee’s revised code of conduct and rules of procedure following the 2018 olaf investigation was approved in the committee plenary by a vast majority in january 2021; notes that the bureau has decided on a partial and light revision of the rules of procedure and a more comprehensive revision of the code of conduct , with a particular view to strengthening sanctions; notes that the committee has also updated its ethics and integrity framework through the adoption of an action plan for a stronger ethical framework , which entered into force on 7 january 2021;


### 52. notes that the proposal for revision of the code of conduct should include elements such as stronger sanctions , support mechanisms for victims , automatically informing the council and the commission of the names of committee members who have been found to be responsible for breaching the code of conduct and an annual review of the functioning of the code of conduct; notes that the decision on harassment and the decision on administrative investigations are currently being revised in order to further improve the mechanisms allowing staff to make formal harassment complaints; notes in relation to the informal procedure and the possibility for staff members to share their concerns on any perceived situation of harassment that the number of confidential counsellors has been increased and that the entire network of confidential counsellors receives continuous support through regular supervision and training; notes that the confidential counsellors are part of an inter-institutional network , which allows for the exchange of best practices; ### 52. welcomes that the revised code of conduct includes elements such as prevention and prohibition of harassment practices and improved provisions on the declaration of financial interests and on conflict of interest; encourages the committee to consider including other elements such as stronger sanctions , support mechanisms for victims , automatically informing the council and the commission of the names of committee members who have been found to be responsible for breaching the code of conduct and an annual review of the functioning of the code of conduct; notes in relation to the informal procedure and the possibility for staff members to share their concerns on any perceived situation of harassment that the number of confidential counsellors has been increased and that the entire network of confidential counsellors receives continuous support through regular supervision and training; notes that the confidential counsellors are part of an inter-institutional network , which allows for the exchange of best practices;


### 53. values the committee’s commitment to tacklinge harassment in the working environment and to fostering a culture of zero tolerance with regard to harassment by working on the revision of the ethics and integrity framework and the revision of the committee’s decisions on harassment , whistleblowing and administrative enquiries; welcomes that a related , detailed action plan is supposed to be endorsed by the end of 2020 and covers a number of measures such as the revision of the code of conduct for members , the possible creation of an independent internal ombudsman function , a brochure focusing on respect and dignity at work , the establishment of a dedicated compulsory learning path before entrusting staff management responsibilities , whether on committee’s managers or on members , and regular awareness-raising activities ,; appreciates that an internal audit on ethics and integrity will take the form of a mapping exercise followed by an analysis aimed at establishing a comprehensive overview of rules , standards and measures in relation to ethics and integrity; notes that the audit will also tackle issues such as gifts and entertainment , outside activities and assignments , conflicts of interest and post-union employment; ### 53. values the committee’s commitment to tackling harassment in the working environment and to fostering a culture of zero tolerance with regard to the revised ethics and integrity framework and the revision of the committee’s decisions on harassment , whistleblowing and administrative enquiries; welcomes that a related , detailed action plan is supposed to be endorsed by the end of 2020 and covers a number of measures such as the possible creation of an independent internal ombudsman function , a brochure focusing on respect and dignity at work , the establishment of a dedicated compulsory learning path before entrusting staff management responsibilities , whether on committee’s managers or on members , and regular awareness-raising activities ,; appreciates that an internal audit on ethics and integrity will take the form of a mapping exercise followed by an analysis aimed at establishing a comprehensive overview of rules , standards and measures in relation to ethics and integrity; notes that the audit will also tackle issues such as gifts and entertainment , outside activities and assignments , conflicts of interest and post-union employment;


### 15. states that the geographical proximity of france , belgium and germany to luxembourg may be a reason why these three nationalities are generally overrepresented among the staff at the court; notes , however , the court’s firm position that when recruiting new staff members the court acts solely in the interest of the service and without regard to nationality , as stipulated in article 7 of the staff regulations; ### 15. urges the court to strive for further improvements in the context of geographical balance of staff (specifically for ast functions groups 1-4 and 5-9 there is a significant overrepresentation of certain nationalities); calls on the court to prepare an action plan for the recruitment of new staff members with regard to nationality , as stipulated in article 7 of the staff regulations;


### 26. welcomes the administrative arrangement signed in 2019 between the european anti-fraud office (olaf) and the court in order to provide a structured framework for co-operation between olaf and the court , and to facilitate their timely exchange of information under regulation (eu , euratom) no 883/20136 and the court’s decisions related to internal investigations; notes that this arrangement also contains provisions on non-operational issues such as the organisation of training sessions , workshops and exchange of staff; notes that in 2019 , the court reported ten cases of suspected fraud compared to nine cases in 2018 (eight identified in the course of audit work and two denunciations made by third parties); ### 26. welcomes the administrative arrangement signed in 2019 providing a structured framework between the european anti-fraud office (olaf) and the court and facilitating a timely exchange of information under regulation (eu , euratom) no 883/20136 and the court’s decisions related to internal investigations; notes that this arrangement also contains provisions on non-operational issues such as the organisation of training sessions , workshops and exchange of staff; notes that in 2019 , the court reported ten cases of suspected fraud compared to nine cases in 2018 (eight identified in the course of audit work and two denunciations made by third parties);


### 30. notes that the european ombudsman invited the court (in the context of a consultation undertaken with all union institutions) to comment on the ombudsman’s draft practical recommendations for the eu administration on the use of the eu official languages when communicating with the public (case si/98/2018/ddj) to which the court replied by indicating that its current policy is already compliant; ### 30. notes that the european ombudsman invited the court (in the context of a consultation undertaken with all union institutions) to comment on the ombudsman’s draft practical recommendations for the eu administration on the use of the eu official languages when communicating with the public (case si/98/2018/ddj) to which the court replied by indicating that its current policy is already compliant; requests that national sign languages also be included in this process;


### 32. recognises that the court applies a set of key performance indicators to monitor progress made , such as for example measuring the implementation rate of the court’s recommendations; notes that the court’s analysis showed that 96 % of the recommendations made in the 2015 annual report and 94 % of the recommendations made in the 2015 special reports have been implemented in full , mostly or in some respects; notes that the court issued six annual reports , three opinions , 18 audit previews and four other publications , being part of the altogether 67 publications it issued in 2019; ### 32. recognises that the court applies a set of key performance indicators to monitor progress made; notes with appreciation that the court’s analysis showed that 96 % of the recommendations made in the 2015 annual report and 94 % of the recommendations made in the 2015 special reports have been implemented in full , mostly or in some respects; notes that the court issued six annual reports , three opinions , 18 audit previews and four other publications , being part of the altogether 67 publications it issued in 2019;


### 34. notes that the audit showed that the case of a former member investigated by olaf was an isolated case; stresses that the report concluded that the court’s management and control systems were affected by certain shortcomings which have , however , been effectively remedied since then and that , overall , the management and control procedures currently in place are reliable; takes into account that the ias made recommendations aimed at improving further the management and control system , that the audit report was strictly confidential and that all members and the secretary-general of the court received the report; ### 34. notes that the audit showed that the case of a former member investigated by olaf was an isolated case; notes that the report concluded that the court’s management and control systems were affected by certain shortcomings which have , however , been effectively remedied since then and that , overall , the management and control procedures currently in place are reliable; takes into account that the ias made recommendations aimed at improving further the management and control system , that the audit report was strictly confidential and that all members and the secretary-general of the court received the report;


### 37. welcomes that the ias considers that overall , reliable ex-post controls have been conducted for most of the high risk areas of the work of the directorates of the secretariat-general , based on the risk register and the operational objectives; appreciates being kept informed (in particular in the context of the past problems identified by an olaf investigation on a former member of the court)that the ias has not observed any shortcomings that are of such importance as to seriously call into question the overall reliability of the internal control systems put in place by the authorising officer by delegation with regard to the legality and regularity of financial operations in 2019; ### 37. welcomes that the ias considers that overall , reliable ex-post controls have been conducted for most of the high risk areas of the work of the directorates of the secretariat-general , based on the risk register and the operational objectives; appreciates being informed (in particular in the context of the past problems identified by an olaf investigation on a former member of the court)that the ias has not observed any shortcomings that are of such importance as to seriously call into question the overall reliability of the internal control systems put in place by the authorising officer by delegation with regard to the legality and regularity of financial operations in 2019 and would appreciate such updates also in the future;


### 39. notes that members are authorised to use official vehicles in the performance of official duties; notes that the use of official cars for other journeys is additional to the performance of such duties and that since 1 january 2017 , the costs and kilometres related to the use of official cars have decreased significantly; notes that new rules entered into force on 1 january 2020 and introduced a monthly eur 100 contribution for the non-official use of the vehicles as well as a liability on the part of the members and the secretary-general for certain costs and charges; ### 39. notes that members are authorised to use official vehicles in the performance of official duties; notes that the use of official cars for other journeys is additional to the performance of such duties and that since 1 january 2017 , the costs and kilometres related to the use of official cars have decreased significantly; emphasises the new rules on increased transparency with regards to the use of official cars and drivers to ensure that members’ journeys are related to the execution of their duties; notes that new rules entered into force on 1 january 2020 and introduced a monthly eur 100 contribution for the non-official use of the vehicles as well as a liability on the part of the members and the secretary-general for certain costs and charges;


### 41. asks the court to provide information on the results of three harassment complaints , which were reported and investigated in 2019; notes that they were handled in accordance with the procedures laid down in the policy for maintaining a satisfactory working environment and combating psychological and sexual harassment; notes that in terms of expenditure , the investigations of each case were carried out internally and thus did not entail any additional costs; notes that it is foreseen that the court's policy on protecting staff against harassment shall be evaluated every three years and that this exercise is due to be carried out in 2020; ### 41. asks the court to provide information on the results of three harassment complaints reported and investigated in 2019; notes that they were handled in accordance with the procedures laid down in the policy for maintaining a satisfactory working environment and combating psychological and sexual harassment; acknowledges that in terms of expenditure , the investigations of each case were carried out internally and thus did not entail any additional costs; welcomes the intention to evaluate the court's policy on protecting staff against harassment every three years and that this exercise is due to be carried out in 2020;


### 43. calls on the court to provide information on any decisions taken related to the process of reviewing and amending the code of conduct for its members; supports the conclusions of the peer review with respect to the need to introduce regular updates of declarations , which would increase their reliability; is in agreement that the ethics committee plays a crucial role to the extent that the president and the members may seek its advice on any question pertaining to ethics and on the interpretation of the code of conduct; notes , moreover , that the committee is entrusted with approving any external activity undertaken by the members , including former members who intend to carry out an activity in the year after they leave the court , which is an efficient tool in ensuring the absence of conflicts of interest. ### 43. urges the court to provide information on any decisions taken related to the process of reviewing and amending the code of conduct for its members; supports the conclusions of the peer review with respect to the need to introduce regular updates of declarations , which would increase their reliability; is in agreement that the ethics committee plays a crucial role to the extent that the president and the members may seek its advice on any question pertaining to ethics and on the interpretation of the code of conduct; notes , moreover , that the committee is entrusted with approving any external activity undertaken by the members , including former members who intend to carry out an activity in the year after they leave the court , which is an efficient tool in ensuring the absence of conflicts of interest.


### 3. regrets that the budget does not disclose completely how the contributions from eu and efta member states were calculated , nor were the member states contributions adjusted to match the actual figures for the authority’s pensions contributions; ### 3. notes that the funding key for and efta member states’ contributions is determined by article 62 of eiopa´s founding regulation; calls on the authority to swiftly publish a more detailed explanation on the calculation methods applied for eu , nca and efta state contributions , and not to wait until the next spd;


### 2. shares the court’s observation that to compensate for a shortage of posts the authority relies on consultants and interim staff , which may pose risks if too few qualified staff are to supervise complex work of external contractors or cause risks of contractual litigation; ### 2. shares the court’s observation that to compensate for a shortage of posts the authority relies on consultants and interim staff , which may pose risks if too few qualified staff are to supervise complex work of external contractors or cause risks of contractual litigation; urges the authority to make sure that contracts avoid any confusion between the procurement of services and of interim workers;


### 5. underlines that the cjeu still overestimates some commitments as stated in the discharge resolution of 2017: for budget lines such as ‘missions for members’ , budget line 104: eur 299.750 committed versus eur 34 340 paid; ‘missions persons working with institution’ , budget line 162: eur 498 500 committed versus eur 272 898 paid; ‘training for members’ , budget line 106: eur 270 065 committed versus eur 164 263 paid; and ‘training persons working with institution’ , budget line 1612: eur 1.528.061 committed versus eur 706.717 paid; calls on the cjeu to pursue its efforts to ensure sound financial management for all budget lines in order to avoid significant discrepancies between commitments and payments; ### 5. notes with concern that the cjeu still overestimates some commitments as stated in the discharge resolution of 2017: for budget lines such as ‘missions for members’ , budget line 104: eur 299.750 committed versus eur 34 340 paid; ‘missions persons working with institution’ , budget line 162: eur 498 500 committed versus eur 272 898 paid; ‘training for members’ , budget line 106: eur 270 065 committed versus eur 164 263 paid; and ‘training persons working with institution’ , budget line 1612: eur 1.528.061 committed versus eur 706.717 paid; calls on the cjeu to pursue its efforts to ensure sound financial management for all budget lines in order to avoid significant discrepancies between commitments and payments;


### 7. highlights the importance of addressing the lack of gender balance within the college of judges; welcomes , however , the fact that efforts in the field of equal opportunities are becoming increasingly visible at the administrative level with a share of women in middle management amounting to 41 % and in senior management amounting to 40 %; notes that the staff in general has a distribution of 39 % men and 61 % women and for ad staff a distribution of46 % men and 54 % women; ### 7. acknowledges that efforts in the field of equal opportunities are becoming increasingly visible at the administrative level with a share of women in middle management amounting to 41 % and in senior management amounting to 40 %; notes that the staff in general has a distribution of 39 % men and 61 % women and for ad staff a distribution of46 % men and 54 % women;


### 8. calls for improvements in the context of geographical balance of staff , in particular for management positions , as at present 15 out of 58 heads of unit (25 ,8 %) and 2 out of 15 directors (13 ,3 %) come from member states that have joined the union since may 2004 (compared to 15 out of 57 heads of unit and 2 out of 13 directors in 2018); acknowledges that these figures have to be seen in the context of the percentage of cjeu staff coming from those member states (29 %); calls on the cjeu to strengthen its efforts in this regard; ### 8. underlines the need for improvements in the context of geographical balance of staff , in particular for management positions , as at present 15 out of 58 heads of unit (25 ,8 %) and only 2 out of 15 directors (13 ,3 %) come from member states that have joined the union since may 2004 (compared to 15 out of 57 heads of unit and 2 out of 13 directors in 2018); urges the cjeu to strengthen its efforts in this regard by encouraging applications from candidates whose nationality is underrepresented and by making use of inter-institutional exchanges in that respect;


### 10. welcomes the steps taken by the cjeu to assess whether the workload is distributed proportionally across the different teams and members of staff to reduce cases of burnout and increase efficiency; notes that the presidents of the court of justice and the general court , respectively , have responsibility for allocating cases by taking into account the current and anticipated workload; highlights the fact that tools have been made available to assess accurately the situation including workload analysis every six weeks; notes that for the administrative services , by taking into account the continuous increase in the workload and the limited resources available , the managers monitor the workload and its distribution between the different members of staff on an ongoing basis in order to be able to make the necessary adjustments; ### 10. welcomes the steps taken by the cjeu to assess whether the workload is distributed proportionally across the different teams and members of staff to reduce cases of burnout and increase efficiency; notes that the presidents of the court of justice and the general court , respectively , have responsibility for allocating cases by taking into account the current and anticipated workload; highlights the fact that tools have been made available to assess accurately the situation including workload analysis every six weeks; notes that for the administrative services the managers monitor the workload and its distribution between the different members of staff on an ongoing basis in order to be able to make the necessary adjustments;


### 14. is satisfied with the significant changes to the rules governing members’ travel arrangements , especially in relation with the use of official cars and drivers; notes that the use of a driver is now only possible in two specific cases: prior authorised business trips carried out by members for the purpose of external activities (the rules governing such business trips do not provide for any situation , unless there are exceptional circumstances , in which a driver could be asked to travel to the member’s country of origin or to any other country without transporting the member in the vehicle) , and trips dictated by special circumstances (health or medical reasons , safety or security grounds and cases of force majeure); ### 14. welcomes the changes to the internal legal framework concerning members’ journeys , in particular with regard to the use of official cars and drivers; notes that the use of a driver is now only possible in two specific cases: prior authorised business trips carried out by members for the purpose of external activities (the rules governing such business trips do not provide for any situation , unless there are exceptional circumstances , in which a driver could be asked to travel to the member’s country of origin or to any other country without transporting the member in the vehicle) , and trips dictated by special circumstances (health or medical reasons , safety or security grounds and cases of force majeure);


### 17. welcomes the training entitled ‘rules of good conduct’ conducted in 2019 with the participation of 63 staff members; notes that such training have been set up in order to inform newcomers and other staff members on their obligations under the staff regulations and on the conditions of employment of other servants; notes with satisfaction that the courses cover topics such as harassment , whistleblowing , prevention of conflicts of interest and other ethical issues; welcomes that whistleblowing and conflicts of interest have also been included in the content of financial training; ### 17. welcomes the training entitled ‘rules of good conduct’ conducted in 2019 with the participation of 63 staff members; notes that such training have been set up in order to inform newcomers and other staff members on their obligations under the staff regulations and on the conditions of employment of other servants; notes with satisfaction that the courses cover topics such as harassment , whistleblowing , prevention of conflicts of interest and other ethical issues; welcomes that whistleblowing and conflicts of interest have also been included in the content of financial training; encourages such activities and invites the cjeu to promote trainings of similar nature;


### 24. encourages the cjeu to publish on its website the members’ cvs and to take into consideration the approaches followed by the other institutions and the member states in this area; welcomes the cjeu’s willingness to examine how a greater transparency can best be achieved; ### 24. welcomes the cjeu’s willingness to ensure greater transparency; encourages to publish on its website the members’ cvs and calls on the cjeu to take into consideration the approaches followed by the other institutions and the member states in this area;


### 29. encourages the cjeu to enhance transparency and welcomes the cjeu’s decision to livestream the delivery of the judgments of its grand chamber; takes note that the livestreaming of hearings themselves would be an extremely complex and costly matter since it operates in 24 languages and without access to simultaneous interpretation it would be meaningless for the vast majority of union citizens; welcomes also the fact that as of november 2019 the cjeu publishes requests for preliminary ruling from national courts , internal research notes and national judicial decisions on the website of the judicial network of the european union; ### 29. encourages the cjeu to enhance transparency and welcomes the cjeu’s decision to livestream the delivery of the judgments of its grand chamber; takes note that the livestreaming of hearings themselves would be a complex and costly matter since it operates in 24 languages and without access to simultaneous interpretation it would be extremely difficult for the vast majority of union citizens to follow; welcomes also the fact that as of november 2019 the cjeu publishes requests for preliminary ruling from national courts , internal research notes and national judicial decisions on the website of the judicial network of the european union;


### 1. notes that , according to the observations of the court of auditor’s (‘the court’s’) annual report related to chapter 9 'administration - mff heading 5' , no specific issues were identified in the sample of transactions concerning the eeas for the third consecutive year and no material level of error was identified in the eeas’s annual activity report; ### 1. notes with satisfaction that , according to the observations of the court of auditor’s (‘the court’s’) annual report related to chapter 9 'administration - mff heading 5' , no specific issues were identified in the sample of transactions concerning the eeas for the third consecutive year and no material level of error was identified in the eeas’s annual activity report;


### 1. notes growing instability and the rise of unprecedented challenges in the international environment , which increased demands on the union to act as a global player; highlights the european external action service’s (eeas) central role in conducting the external policy of the union; notes that the eeas’s enhanced role has not been underpinned by a corresponding staff increase; calls for sufficient human resources to be made available in order not to put at risk the union’s effectiveness on the international scene; ### 1. states that national diplomatic services and embassies are the legitimate representatives of the member states in connection with fair and balanced international relations; emphasises that it is not the job of the eeas to take their place; calls therefore for a significant reduction in eeas appropriations and staff; calls also for the eeas to end its recruitment and calls on member states and their diplomatic services to react accordingly;


### 2. notes the court’s general observations on the increase in the number of contract staff and the related budget appropriations from 2012 to 2018; observes that for the eeas , such an increase was due to new tasks reflecting the placing of new operational and political responsibilities on the eeas , in particular in the areas of the common security and defence policy , the implementation of the action plan against disinformation as well as the urgent priority to reinforce physical and it security in eu delegations; observes for the eeas an overall increase in contract staff from 322 to 444 (i.e. a growth of 38 %); ### 2. notes the court’s general observations on the increase in the number of contract staff and the related budget appropriations from 2012 to 2018; observes that for the eeas , such an increase was due to new tasks reflecting the placing of new operational and political responsibilities on the eeas , in particular in the areas of the common security and defence policy , the implementation of the action plan against disinformation as well as the urgent priority to reinforce physical and it security in eu delegations; observes for the eeas an overall increase in contract staff from 322 to 444 (i.e. a growth of 38 %); supports the eeas efforts to strengthen its administration and asks eeas to report back to the budgetary control committee on the results and the impact of the increased contract staff numbers; encourages eeas to create and divulge guidelines of the best practices on how to conduct recruitment procedures to ensure openness , fairness and transparency;


### 6. notes the geographical imbalances in the composition of the eeas staff; stresses that the eeas , like all european institutions , must ensure that all member states are proportionally represented while at the same time respecting the competences and merits of the candidates; calls on the eeas to enhance the geographical balance in order to have a proper representation of nationals from all member states , reflecting the diversity of member states; ### 6. is concerned about the geographical imbalances in the composition of the eeas staff; notes considerable discrepancies between the representation of countries with comparable population size and between west and east european countries (in 2018 , 347posts out of 2491 were occupied by belgian citizens , i.e. almost 14%of total eeas jobs , whereas belgian citizens represent only about 2 ,6% of all eu population); stresses that the eeas , like all european institutions , must ensure that all member states are proportionally represented while at the same time respecting the competences and merits of the candidates; urges the eeas to enhance the geographical balance in order to have a proper representation of nationals from all member states , reflecting the diversity of member states;


### 26. notes the rate of anomalies detected in ex ante verifications of commitments and payments (respectively , 308 errors out of 1193 and 394 out of 2119); is concerned that in both cases errors are of an administrative nature i.e. incorrect amounts for commitments or missing supporting documents for payments presented for ex-ante financial verification; ### 26. notes the rate of anomalies detected in ex ante verifications of commitments and payments (respectively , 308 errors out of 1193 and 394 out of 2119); is concerned that in both cases errors are of an administrative nature i.e. incorrect amounts for commitments or missing supporting documents for payments presented for ex-ante financial verification; calls for the implementation of measures that would contribute to a reduction of the level of errors in general terms;


### 30. underlines that the spread of deliberate , large-scale systematic disinformation is an acute strategic challenge for the union’s public diplomacy for which adequate financial , it and human resources should be devoted in the short-to-medium term; ### 30. underlines that the spread of deliberate , large-scale systematic disinformation is an acute strategic challenge for the union’s public diplomacy for which adequate financial , it and human resources should be devoted in the short term; supports the reinforcement of the linkage between policy making , public diplomacy and strategic communication;


### 31. notes that only two delegations provided motivated reservations , i.e. the delegation to syria (since 2017) and the delegation in djibouti in relation to the management of their administrative expenditure , in particular linked to procurement issues; ### 31. notes that only two delegations provided motivated reservations , i.e. the delegation to syria (since 2017) and the delegation in djibouti in relation to the management of their administrative expenditure , in particular linked to procurement issues; calls on eeas to undertake necessary steps to examine these issues;


### 33. welcomes the fact that the eeas is continuously adapting its anti-fraud strategy in conjunction with all the relex directorates general and with a dedicated format with olaf; believes that all necessary efforts have to be made to share and exchange information on their operational challenges to better identify risky areas in their activities and programmes; ### 33. welcomes the fact that the eeas is continuously adapting its anti-fraud strategy in conjunction with all the relex directorates general and with a dedicated format with olaf; believes that all necessary efforts have to be made to share and exchange information on their operational challenges to better identify risky areas in their activities and programmes; calls on the eeas to identify any possible specific policy fields where tighter collaboration with olaf might be needed to ensure an effective fraud prevention


### 39. underlines that post-public employment and ‘revolving door’ conflict of interests situations is a recurring issue in the eu institutions; calls for the eeas for the effective and consistent application of the staff regulations , in particular article 16 thereof , in order to prevent conflicts of interests , in particular – but not only – concerning senior officials; ### 39. underlines that post-public employment and ‘revolving door’ conflict of interests situations is a recurring issue in the eu institutions; calls for the eeas for the effective and consistent application of the staff regulations , in particular article 16 thereof , in order to prevent conflicts of interests , in particular – but not only – concerning senior officials and seconded national experts;


### 44. notes with appreciation that this increase in colocations has been coupled with a consolidation and standardisation of the system of recovery of costs through further centralisation of incurred colocations’ revenues and the application of administrative fees in the agreed service level agreements; observes that approximately eur 10 million of revenues were generated in 2019; ### 44. notes with appreciation that this increase in colocations has been coupled with a consolidation and standardisation of the system of recovery of costs through further centralisation of incurred colocations’ revenues and the application of administrative fees in the agreed service level agreements; observes that approximately eur 10 million of revenues were generated in 2019; calls on the eeas to present an overview of the allocation of this revenues to ensure transparency;


### 48. invites the eeas to make further progress in relation to the remaining open recommendations on the need to obtain a portfolio overview by monitoring market rates for offices and residences and to start designing a medium-long-term plan in addition to its current annual working document; recalls that the 35m2 office space per member of staff should remain and serve as a recurrent benchmark in upcoming building planning or relocations; calls on the eeas to keep parliament informed about any further improvements; ### 48. invites the eeas to make further progress in relation to the remaining open recommendations on the need to obtain a portfolio overview by monitoring market rates for offices and residences and to start designing a medium-long-term plan in addition to its current annual working document; recalls that the 35m2 office space per member of staff should remain and serve as a recurrent benchmark and access for those with disabilities should be systematically assessed in upcoming building planning or relocations; calls on the eeas to keep parliament informed about any further improvements;


### 50. regrets the fact that there are still unpaid trainees in eu delegations; encourages the eeas to take step to assure that trainees have means to support themselves; ### 50. regrets the fact that there are still unpaid trainees in eu delegations; encourages the eeas to take step to assure that trainees have means to support themselves; urges the eeas to follow the recommendation of the european ombudsman to pay all trainees an appropriate allowance;


### 3. stresses the importance of continuing to improve the rationalisation and modernisation of the financial and administrative management; welcomes the ongoing discussions on the eeas budget simplifications and calls on modernising and simplifying the eeas administration , also through full implementation of the “innovative 2019” project; ### 3. stresses the importance of continuing to improve the rationalisation and modernisation of the financial and administrative management; takes note of the ongoing discussions on the eeas budget simplifications and calls on modernising and simplifying the eeas administration , also through full implementation of the “innovative 2019” project;


### 4. stresses the need to fight foreign propaganda and to expose disinformation and malicious foreign influence; underlines the importance of the eeas strategic communication task force and calls for the broadening of its mandate , including in relation to state sponsored disinformation originating in china , and providing it with further necessary financial and human resources; ### 4. underlines the fact that the supposed fight against foreign disinformation is in fact simply further undermining the right to information; is concerned at eeas initiatives in this area , which seek to restrict freedom of information , in particular in the digital field;


### 10. notes the specific finding , concerning parliament , contained in the annual report of the court for 2019; notes with concern that the court found errors in one payment to one of the european political parties , which concerned non-compliance with the expenditure eligibility rules , specifically , no written contractual documents and no supporting evidence for costs actually incurred were provided; regrets the fact that the court had reported similar shortcomings in transactions relating to political groups and to a european party in its annual reports in 2014 , 2015 and 2016; notes , however , that although there is always scope for improvement there has been a lot of positive development over recent years; ### 10. notes the specific finding , concerning parliament , contained in the annual report of the court for 2019; notes with concern that the court found errors in one payment to one of the european political parties , which concerned non-compliance with the expenditure eligibility rules , specifically , no written contractual documents and no supporting evidence for costs actually incurred were provided; regrets the fact that the court had reported similar shortcomings in transactions relating to political groups and to a european party in its annual reports in 2014 , 2015 and 2016; calls for greater transparency in the exchange of information in order to prevent any repeat of these shortcomings in the future; notes , however , that although there is always scope for improvement there has been a lot of positive development over recent years;


### 37. notes that , at its meeting of 11 february 2019 , the bureau confirmed the continuation of parliament’s office in london; notes that on 5 october 2020 , the bureau acknowledged the closure of the edinburgh antenna office at the end of 2020; acknowledges that the liaison office in the united kingdom will continue to play a crucial role for parliament in providing services to members on delegations to the united kingdom and in order to further engage with citizens , civil society , government , the parliamentary environment and media in that country; ### 37. notes that , at its meeting of 11 february 2019 , the bureau confirmed the continuation of parliament’s office in london; notes that on 5 october 2020 , the bureau acknowledged the closure of the edinburgh antenna office at the end of 2020;


### 40. notes that the revised rules governing the payment of financial contributions for sponsored visitors’ groups entered into force on 1 january 2017; recalls that , in accordance with the principle of non-profit enshrined in these rules , heads of groups have an obligation to return any unused financial contribution after verification by parliament’s services of a financial declaration; seeks greater assurance that the management of sponsored visitors’ groups is strictly in accordance with the applicable rules; ### 40. notes that the revised rules governing the payment of financial contributions for sponsored visitors’ groups entered into force on 1 january 2017; recalls that , in accordance with the principle of non-profit enshrined in these rules , heads of groups have an obligation to return any unused financial contribution after verification by parliament’s services of a financial declaration; seeks greater assurance that the management of sponsored visitors’ groups is strictly in accordance with the applicable rules , including the reimbursement process of costs related to visitors with disabilities;


### 28. welcomes to the adoption of directive (eu) 2019/1937 (‘the whistleblowing directive’) noting the deadline for transposition on 17 december 2021; highlights the importance of independent media and investigative journalists and reiterates the need to protect them including through anti-slapp legislation; ### 28. welcomes to the adoption of directive (eu) 2019/1937 (‘the whistleblowing directive’) noting the deadline for transposition on 17 december 2021; highlights the importance of independent media and investigative journalists; calls on the commission to provide for proper legal protection in keeping with that introduced for whistle-blowers and reiterates the need to protect them including through anti-slapp legislation;


### 34. recalls the need for a more incisive and effective response and coordination at both union and national level in the fight against corruption and organised crime with particular focus on transnational and cross-border aspects , in order to tackle , also through the use of artificial intelligence tools , fraudsters’ constant ability to adapt to new technologies and scenarios; ### 34. recalls the need for a more incisive and effective response and coordination at both union and national level in the fight against corruption and organised crime , including mafia-style crime , with particular focus on transnational and cross-border aspects , in order to tackle , also through the use of artificial intelligence tools , fraudsters’ constant ability to adapt to new technologies and scenarios;


### 35. recalls the importance of supporting and strengthening cooperation among the eu institutions , the eppo , olaf , the eu agencies , in particular europol and eurojust , and national authorities , in order to detect and tackle fraud and corruption more effectively; reiterates its call to ensure adequate resources for the eppo , olaf and relevant eu agencies in this regard; ### 35. recalls the importance of supporting and strengthening cooperation among the eu institutions , the eppo , olaf , the eu agencies , in particular europol and eurojust , and national authorities , in order to detect and tackle fraud and corruption more effectively , avoiding overlapping of roles and promoting the exchange of information; reiterates its call to ensure adequate resources for the eppo , olaf and relevant eu agencies in this regard;


### 1. grants the european ombudsman discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the for the financial year 2019 / postpones its decision on granting the european ombudsman discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the for the financial year 2019; ### 1. postpones its decision on granting the european ombudsman discharge in respect of the implementation of the budget of the for the financial year 2019;


### 6. notes that the total number of staff in 2019 was 576 (compared to 538 in 2018 and 533 in 2017); notes that the number of posts in the establishment plan amounts to 491 which is considered by the committee as insufficient; recognises the results of a workload assessment finalised in 2019 for a potential reorganisation with the objective to make further efficiency gains and create synergies; is informed that the committee wants the union budgetary authorities to address the issue and balance the current staff situation progressively; ### 6. notes that the total number of staff in 2019 was 576 (compared to 538 in 2018 and 533 in 2017); notes that the number of posts in the establishment plan amounts to 491 which is considered by the committee as insufficient; recognises the results of a workload assessment finalised in 2019 for a potential reorganisation with the objective to make further efficiency gains and create synergies; is informed that the committee wants the union budgetary authorities to address the issue and balance the current staff situation progressively; encourages the committee to deepen its administrative cooperation with the eesc via jointservices to pool staff in order to develop more synergies.


### 7. acknowledges the committee’s continued efforts to reinforce its political role and to face the increased need for permanent expertise in political and administrative domains; notes the talent pool created to motivate and retain experienced staff in the committee; notes that the first general internal competition in the history of the committee was finalised in the first half of 2019 with a total of 40 laureates out of 113 candidate staff members; ### deleted


### 8. acknowledges that the situation in terms of gender balance in middle and senior management positions has remained relatively stable since 2018 with 35 % of these positions being filled by women; acknowledges that a new equal opportunity strategy containing concrete objectives to be reached by 2025 is being adopted and should enter in force in 2020; ### 8. acknowledges that the situation in terms of gender balance in middle and senior management positions has remained relatively stable since 2018 with 35 % of these positions being filled by women; acknowledges that a new equal opportunity strategy containing concrete objectives to be reached by 2025 is being adopted and should enter in force in 2020; calls upon the committee to present an outline of its adoption and its planned impact;


### 11. underlines that the committee uses contract staff mainly to provide appropriate support in the form of replacements for mid to long term absences and for specific projects in different directorates with the objective of providing additional support to members of the committee; ### 11. underlines that the committee uses contract staff mainly to provide appropriate support in the form of replacements for mid to long term absences and for specific projects in different directorates with the objective of providing additional support to members of the committee; notes that in 2019 , as the consequence of the cooperation between the committee and parliament , the number of long-term contract staff decreased in the directorate for translation compared to the years 2013-2017;


### 12. notes that the committee needs to upgrade its security control systems and ensure a safe work place for its members and staff , which require additional specialised resources and that the ratio of resources dedicated to both physical security and it support per member of staff is very low in comparison to other european institutions. ### 12. notes that the committee needs to upgrade its security control systems and ensure a safe workplace for its members and staff , which require additional specialised resources and that the ratio of resources dedicated to both physical security and it support per member of staff is very low in comparison to other european institutions; encourages the committee to continue preparing new project to boost cybersecurity;


### 14. underlines that an external evaluation of the communication strategy of the committee was carried out in accordance with the standards applied by all other union institutions using a shared framework contract; notes that the overall quality of the committee’s communication mostly meets audience needs and is effective as key stakeholders have a positive perception of the committee; ### 14. underlines that an external evaluation of the communication strategy of the committee was carried out in accordance with the standards applied by all other union institutions using a shared framework contract; notes that the overall quality of the committee’s communication mostly meets audience needs and is effective as key stakeholders have a positive perception of the committee; invites the committee to improve digital communication with the public and to enhance the visibility of its studies for stakeholders and for union citizens;


### 16. is aware that the bureau of the committee adopted a digital strategy at the beginning of 2019 and that the implementation started following the adoption; notes that the main deliverables of the strategy are member-centric information systems to support the political work of the committee , information systems to support paperless administrative processes and a digital workplace programme; ### 16. is aware that the bureau of the committee adopted a digital strategy at the beginning of 2019 and that the implementation started following the adoption; notes that the main deliverables of the strategy are member-centric information systems to support the political work of the committee , information systems to support paperless administrative processes and a digital workplace programme; invites the committee to enhance digitalisation also through interinstitutional cooperation;


### 19. welcomes the fact that a series of measures has been implemented to ensure adequate building security standards , such as the installation of new equipment for access control; notes that the related security standards have reached the same level as the standards of parliament and the commission and that , moreover , first steps have been taken to buy a new visitor's management system that will be implemented in 2020; ### 19. welcomes the fact that a series of measures has been implemented to ensure adequate building security standards , such as the installation of new equipment for access control and the installation of new closed-circuit television (cctv) system; notes that the related security standards have reached the same level as the standards of parliament and the commission and that , moreover , first steps have been taken to buy a new visitor's management system that will be implemented in 2020;


### 23. notes that a compliance and effectiveness exercise was launched in 2019 to assess to what extent the committee complies with the 16 internal control standards; notes that the 2019 compliance exercise has shown that the overall state of implementation and effectiveness of the requirements remained satisfactory and stable as compared to 2018; notes , however , that areas for further improvement have been identified including the alignment of the committee’s mission and organisational structure with new priorities , further digitalisation of data storage and simplification of administrative processes as well as an in-depth revamp of the existing business continuity plan arising from the experiences acquired during the current covid-19 situation; ### 23. notes that a compliance and effectiveness exercise was launched in 2019 to assess to what extent the committee complies with the 16 internal control standards; notes that the 2019 compliance exercise has shown that the overall state of implementation and effectiveness of the requirements remained satisfactory and stable as compared to 2018; notes , however , that areas for further improvement have been identified including the alignment of the committee’s mission and organisational structure with new priorities , administrative cooperation between the parliament and the committee , further digitalisation of data storage and simplification of administrative processes as well as an in-depth revamp of the existing business continuity plan arising from the experiences acquired during the current covid-19 situation;


### 35. supports the committee and the eesc in the view that in the event of an extension of the current agreement or of a new agreement with parliament all outstanding issues such as the unbalanced situation for the committee and the eesc , which transferred a total of 60 translators to parliament (24 from the committee) and in exchange obtained only the use of the services of the european parliamentary research service must be settled; notes with concern that as a consequence the committee and the eesc had to hire contract staff and outsourced their translation services which resulted in an effective budget reduction; ### 35. supports the committee and the eesc in the view that in the event of an extension of the current agreement or of a new agreement with parliament all outstanding issues such as the unbalanced situation for the committee and the eesc , which transferred a total of 60 translators to parliament (24 from the committee) and in exchange obtained a guarantee for a sustainable working relationship with the parliament , intensified cooperation with the parliamentary committees , involvement in the european semester work , a reserved seat during parliamentary committee meetings , the use of the services of the european parliamentary research service , joint projects and synergies on translation , opening of pathways between parliament and the buildings of the committees , a service level agreement including provisions of interpretation services and technical support by parliament , regular use of parliament buildings in brussels as well as parliament’s liaison offices in the member states for events and activities , intensified cooperation in the area of informatics , mutual access to canteens , several cooperation mechanisms to ensure a coherent approach and create synergies in the field of information and communication and if required legal advice in technical and/or administrative matters of the parliament’s legal service should be reviewed; notes that as a consequence the committee and the eesc had to hire contract staff and outsourced their translation services which resulted in an effective budget reduction;


### 36. notes , however , that the cooperation with parliament at the administrative level is successful; agrees with the need to further enhance political cooperation with respect to the annual and multi-annual programming , the joint declaration of parliament , the council and the commission on legislative priorities and the monitoring of the annual work programme; ### 36. notes , however , that the cooperation with parliament at the administrative level is successful; agrees with the need to further enhance political cooperation with respect to the annual and multi-annual programming , the joint declaration of parliament , the council and the commission on legislative priorities and the monitoring of the annual work programme; appreciates the participation of the committee in the joint committee on equal opportunities;


### 38. congratulates the committee on the ongoing efforts in the framework of the environmental management system as regards the lowering of the carbon footprint and plastic , food and paper waste; agrees that the reduction of the carbon footprint is among the most important objectives for the coming years; encourages the committee to participate in related projects with the other union bodies and to elaborate a comprehensive plan for the committee to implement the principles and recommendations presented in the european green deal , with the general objective of becoming climate neutral by 2030; ### 38. notes the committee´s efforts in the framework of the environmental management system as regards the lowering of the carbon footprint and plastic , food and paper waste; agrees that the reduction of the carbon footprint is among the most important objectives for the coming years; encourages the committee to participate in related projects with the other union bodies and to elaborate a comprehensive plan for the committee to implement the principles and recommendations presented in the european green deal , with the general objective of becoming climate neutral by 2030;


### 39. underlines that on 5 december 2019 the committee adopted a code of conduct for its members laying down a detailed procedure in the event of alleged harassment of a member of staff by a committee member , which is largely based on parliament's bureau’s decision of 2 july 2018 on harassment complaints; notes that the code of conduct includes a number of sanctions in order to ensure its observance and that the committee has set up an advisory board on harassment; ### 39. underlines that on 5 december 2019 the committee adopted a code of conduct for its members laying down a detailed procedure in the event of alleged harassment of a member of staff by a committee member , which is largely based on parliament's bureau’s decision of 2 july 2018 on harassment complaints; notes that the code of conduct includes a number of sanctions in order to ensure its observance and that the committee has set up an advisory board on harassment; asks the committee to present a report on the implementation of the code of conduct;


### 44. recalls that the invalidity committee confirmed that the invalidity of the former internal auditor , mr mccoy , arose from an occupational disease , and that , consequently , on 26 june 2019 the committee formally endorsed this conclusion; notes that pursuant to article 78(5) of the staff regulations mr mccoy was reimbursed in july 2019 in respect of all his contributions to the pension scheme between the date he started receiving the invalidity allowance (1 july 2007) and the day before he started receiving retirement pension (31 july 2010); ### 44. appreciates the progress on the case concerning the former internal auditor , mr mccoy , in response to the 2018 discharge , notes the work done by the rapporteur for the other institutions who opened the long-stalled dialogue; recalls that the invalidity committee confirmed that the invalidity of mr mccoy arose from an occupational disease , and that , consequently , on 26 june 2019 the committee formally endorsed this conclusion; notes that pursuant to article 78(5) of the staff regulations mr mccoy was reimbursed in july 2019 in respect of all his contributions to the pension scheme between the date he started receiving the invalidity allowance (1 july 2007) and the day before he started receiving retirement pension (31 july 2010);


### 46. appreciates the exchange held in the context of the 2019 discharge procedure on 10 november 2020 with the mediator , the former internal auditor and a representative of the committee; underlines the importance of deescalating the situation and bringing the positions of the former internal auditor and of the committee together; welcomes the mediator’s suggestion of a meeting between the president of the committee and mr mccoy as a starting point for reconciliation before any negotiations will take place; ### 46. appreciates the exchange held in the context of the 2019 discharge procedure on 10 november 2020 with the mediator , the former internal auditor and a representative of the committee; recalls that mr. mccoy and the committee were invited to a meeting of parliament's committee on budgetary control based on a suggestion by the epp coordinator; underlines the importance of deescalating the situation and bringing the positions of the former internal auditor and of the committee together; welcomes the mediator’s suggestion of a meeting between the president of the committee and mr mccoy as a starting point for reconciliation before any negotiations will take place;


### 4. notes that the external evaluation , to which the centre was subject in 2017 as required by the financial rules , has assessed the centre’s work positively; welcomes the actions planned to address the issued recommendations and calls on the centre to continue to pursue further cooperation with other agencies; encourages the centre to continue to implement its performance measurement indicators to present the implemented policies in a more detailed manner; welcomes the introduction of an environmental indicator; ### 4. notes that the external evaluation , to which the centre was subject in 2017 as required by the financial rules , has assessed the centre’s work positively; welcomes the actions planned to address the issued recommendations and calls on the centre to continue to pursue further cooperation with other agencies; encourages the centre to continue to implement its performance measurement indicators and to align the performance indicator methodologies with other agencies in order to present the implemented policies in a more detailed manner; welcomes the introduction of an environmental indicator;


### 10. notes with concern that , according to the court’s report , mistakes in procurement and contract management were made , that the centre accepted the change in the execution of a contract without properly documenting whether the alternative proposed by the contractor was at least equivalent to the solution proposed in the tender and that the centre did not amend the framework contract concluded with that contractor in order to include such change; ### 10. notes with concern that , according to the court’s report , mistakes in procurement and contract management were made , that the centre accepted the change in the execution of a contract without properly documenting whether the alternative proposed by the contractor was at least equivalent to the solution proposed in the tender and that the centre did not amend the framework contract concluded with that contractor in order to include such change; notes that the centre formalised its guidelines on contract management to complement the training given to contract managers , the workflow and the controls in place;


### (2) the system established by regulation (ec) no 182/2011 has , overall , proven to work well in practice and struck an appropriate institutional balance as regards the roles of the commission and the other actors involved. that system should therefore continue to function unchanged except for certain targeted amendments concerning specific aspects of procedure at the level of the appeal committee. these amendments are intended to ensure wider political accountability and ownership of politically sensitive implementing acts without , however , modifying the legal and institutional responsibilities for implementing acts as organised by regulation (eu) no 182/2011. ### (2) the system established by regulation (ec) no 182/2011 should , in principle , strike an institutional balance as regards the roles of the commission and the other actors involved. that system should therefore be changed , in particular as regards specific aspects of procedure at the level of the appeal committee. these amendments are intended to increase the involvement of the council in politically sensitive implementing acts , in specific cases where no opinion has been delivered at the end of the ordinary scrutiny procedures for these acts.


### (2) the system established by regulation (ec) no 182/2011 has , overall , proven to work well in practice and struck an appropriate institutional balance as regards the roles of the commission and the other actors involved. that system should therefore continue to function unchanged except for certain targeted amendments concerning specific aspects of procedure at the level of the appeal committee. these amendments are intended to ensure wider political accountability and ownership of politically sensitive implementing acts without , however , modifying the legal and institutional responsibilities for implementing acts as organised by regulation (eu) no 182/2011. ### (2) the system established by regulation (ec) no 182/2011 has , overall , proven to work well in practice and struck an appropriate institutional balance as regards the roles of the commission and the other actors involved. that system should therefore continue to function unchanged except for certain targeted amendments concerning specific aspects of procedure at the level of the appeal committee. these amendments are intended to ensure wider political accountability and ownership of politically sensitive implementing acts , in particular taxation , animal health and welfare , food security , environmental protection and climate change , without , however , modifying the legal and institutional responsibilities for implementing acts as organised by regulation (eu) no 182/2011.


### (7) while the commission is empowered to decide in such cases , due to the particular sensitivity of the issues at stake , member states should also fully assume their responsibility in the decision-making process. this , however , is not the case when member states are not able to reach a qualified majority , due to , amongst others , a significant number of abstentions or non-appearances at the moment of the vote. ### (7) while the commission is empowered to decide in such cases , due to the particular sensitivity of the issues at stake , member states should also fully assume their responsibility in the decision-making process. this , however , is not the case when member states are not able to reach a qualified majority , due to , amongst others , a significant number of abstentions or intentional non-appearances at the moment of the vote. therefore , by virtue of the politically sensitive nature of the act which led to the blocking , the matter should be referred back to the council for a final decision.