### the management board , acting on a proposal from the executive director and after consulting the edps , shall further specify the conditions relating to the processing of such data. ### the management board , acting on a proposal from the executive director and after consultation and prior authorisation of the edps , shall further specify the conditions and thresholds relating to the processing of such data , based on scale , complexity , type or importance of investigations.


### the management board , acting on a proposal from the executive director and after consulting the edps , shall further specify the conditions relating to the processing of such data. such personal data shall be functionally separated from other data and may only be accessed where necessary for the purpose of ensuring the veracity , reliability and traceability of the criminal intelligence process. ### the management board , acting on a proposal from the executive director and after consultation and prior authorisation of the edps , shall further specify the conditions relating to the processing of such data. such personal data shall be functionally separated from other data and may only be accessed where strictly necessary and proportionate for the specific criminal investigation for which they were provided and for the purpose of ensuring the veracity , reliability and traceability of the criminal intelligence process.


### 4. paragraphs 1 to 3 shall also apply where europol receives personal data from a third country with which there is an agreement concluded either on the basis of article 23 of decision 2009/371/jha in accordance with point (c) of article 25(1) of this regulation or on the basis of article 218 tfeu in accordance with point (b) of article 25(1) of this regulation , or which is the subject of an adequacy decision as referred to in point (a) of article 25(1) of this regulation , and such third country provides an investigative case file to europol for operational analysis that supports the specific criminal investigation in a member state or in member states that europol supports. where a third country provides an investigative case file to europol , the edps shall be informed. europol shall verify that the amount of personal data is not manifestly disproportionate in relation to the specific investigation in a member state that europol supports , and that there are no objective elements indicating that the case file has been obtained by the third country in manifest violation of fundamental rights. where europol , or the edps , reaches the conclusion that there are preliminary indications that such data is disproportionate or collected in violation of fundamental rights , europol shall not process it. data processed pursuant to this paragraph may only be accessed by europol where necessary for the support of the specific criminal investigation in a member state or in member states. it shall be shared only within the union.; ### 4. paragraphs 1 to 3 shall also apply where europol receives personal data from a third country with which there is an agreement concluded either on the basis of article 23 of decision 2009/371/jha in accordance with point (c) of article 25(1) of this regulation or on the basis of article 218 tfeu in accordance with point (b) of article 25(1) of this regulation , or which is the subject of an adequacy decision as referred to in point (a) of article 25(1) of this regulation , and such third country provides an investigative case file to europol for operational analysis that supports the specific criminal investigation in a member state or in member states that europol supports. where a third country provides an investigative case file to europol , the edps shall be informed. europol shall verify that the amount of personal data is not manifestly disproportionate in relation to the specific investigation in a member state that europol supports , and that there are no objective elements indicating that the case file has been obtained by the third country in manifest violation of fundamental rights. where europol , or the edps , reaches the conclusion that there are preliminary indications that such data is disproportionate or collected in violation of fundamental rights , europol shall not process it and shall delete the data. data processed pursuant to this paragraph may only be accessed by europol where necessary for the support of the specific criminal investigation in a member state or in member states. it shall be shared only within the union.;


### 2a. in the framework of conducting dedicated operational analysis projects as referred to in article 18(3) , member states may determine information to be made directly accessible by europol to selected other member states for the purpose of enhanced collaboration in specific investigations , without prejudice to any restrictions of article 19(2).; ### 2a. in the framework of conducting dedicated operational analysis projects as referred to in article 18(3) , member states may determine information to be made directly accessible by europol to selected other member states for the purpose of enhanced collaboration in specific investigations , without prejudice to any restrictions of article 19(2). any processing of personal data by member states in joint operational analysis shall take place in accordance with the rules and safeguards set out in this regulation;


### 1. subject to any further restrictions pursuant to this regulation , in particular pursuant to article 19(2) and (3) and without prejudice to article 67 , europol shall only transmit operational personal data to another union institution , body , office or agency if the data are necessary for the legitimate performance of tasks of the other union institution , body , office or agency. ### 1. subject to any further restrictions pursuant to this regulation , in particular pursuant to article 19(2) and (3) and without prejudice to article 67 , europol shall only transmit operational personal data to another union institution , body , office or agency if the data are necessary and proportionate for the legitimate performance of tasks of the other union institution , body , office or agency , in accordance with union law to achieve the purposes set out in the legal act establishing the union body , office or agency.


### by way of derogation from paragraph 1 , the executive director may authorise the transfer or categories of transfers of personal data to third countries or international organisations on a case-by-case basis if the transfer is , or the related transfers are:; ### by way of derogation from paragraph 1 , the executive director may exceptionally authorise the transfer or categories of transfers of personal data related to a specific ongoing criminal investigation to third countries or international organisations on a case-by-case basis if the transfer is , or the related transfers are:;


### in paragraph 8 , the following sentence is deleted: ### in paragraph 8 , the following sentence is added:


### 5. europol may transmit or transfer personal data to private parties on a case-by-case basis , where it is strictly necessary , and subject to any possible restrictions stipulated pursuant to article 19(2) or (3) and without prejudice to article 67 , in the following cases: ### 5. europol may transmit or transfer personal data to private parties on a case-by-case basis , where it is strictly necessary , after it has informed the edps and subject to any possible restrictions stipulated pursuant to article 19(2) or (3) and without prejudice to article 67 , in the following cases:


### any project shall be subject to prior authorisation by the executive director , based on a description of the envisaged processing activity setting out the necessity to process personal data , such as for exploring and testing innovative solutions and ensuring accuracy of the project results , a description of the personal data to be processed , a description of the retention period and conditions for access to the personal data , a data protection impact assessment of the risks to all rights and freedoms of data subjects , including of any bias in the outcome , and the measures envisaged to address those risks; ### any project shall be subject to prior authorisation by the executive director and the edps , and adoption by the management board in a binding document , based on all of the following elements:


### (b) the management board and the edps shall be informed prior to the launch of the project; (c) any personal data to be processed in the context of the project shall be temporarily copied to a separate , isolated and protected data processing environment within europol for the sole purpose of carrying out that project and only authorised staff of europol shall have access to that data; ### the management board and the edps shall be informed of the launch of the project; (c) any personal data to be processed in the context of the project shall be temporarily copied to a separate , isolated and protected data processing environment within europol for the sole purpose of carrying out that project and only authorised staff of europol shall have access to that data;


### (b) the management board and the edps shall be informed prior to the launch of the project; (c) any personal data to be processed in the context of the project shall be temporarily copied to a separate , isolated and protected data processing environment within europol for the sole purpose of carrying out that project and only authorised staff of europol shall have access to that data; ### the management board and the edps shall be regularly updated during the project; (c) any personal data to be processed in the context of the project shall be temporarily copied to a separate , isolated and protected data processing environment within europol for the sole purpose of carrying out that project and only authorised staff of europol shall have access to that data;


### (g) the logs of the processing of personal data in the context of the project shall be kept for the duration of the project and 1 year after the project is concluded , solely for the purpose of and only as long as necessary for verifying the accuracy of the outcome of the data processing. ### the logs of the processing of personal data in the context of the project shall be kept for the duration of the project and 1 year after the project is concluded , solely for the purpose of and only as long as necessary for verifying the accuracy of the outcome of the data processing , and to allow the edps to conduct supervision and audits. the jpsg shall have access to the logs.


### 2. europol shall keep a complete and detailed description of the process and rationale behind the training , testing and validation of algorithms to ensure transparency and for verification of the accuracy of the results.; ### 2. europol shall keep a complete and detailed description of the process and rationale behind the training , testing and validation of algorithms to ensure transparency and for verification of the accuracy of the results , including all elements listed in paragraph 1(a) of this article , which shall be made available in its entirety to the edps and the jpsg right after launching the project.;


### 2. europol shall keep a complete and detailed description of the process and rationale behind the training , testing and validation of algorithms to ensure transparency and for verification of the accuracy of the results.; ### 2. europol shall keep a complete and detailed description of the process and rationale behind the training , testing and validation of algorithms to ensure transparency and for verification of the accuracy of the results , which shall be made available in its entirety to the jpsg;


### in paragraph 3 , the following points (f) to (i) are are added: ### in paragraph 3 , the following points (f) to (k) are are added:


### annual information about the number of cases in which europol issued follow-up requests to private parties or own-initiative requests to member states of establishment for the transmission of personal data in accordance with article 26 , including specific examples of cases demonstrating why these requests were necessary for europol to fulfil its objectives and tasks; ### annual information about the number of cases in which europol issued follow-up requests to private parties or own-initiative requests to member states of establishment for the transmission of personal data in accordance with article 26 , relevant details on the third parties involved in the data exchange and on the effectiveness of cooperation , and specific examples of cases demonstrating why these requests were necessary for europol to fulfil its objectives and tasks;


### annual information about the number of cases in which europol issued follow-up requests to private parties or own-initiative requests to member states of establishment for the transmission of personal data in accordance with article 26 , including specific examples of cases demonstrating why these requests were necessary for europol to fulfil its objectives and tasks; ### annual information about the number of cases in which europol issued follow-up requests to private parties or own-initiative requests to member states of establishment for the transmission of personal data in accordance with article 26 , including specific examples of cases demonstrating why these requests were necessary and proportionate for europol to fulfil its objectives and tasks;


### annual information about the number of cases where it was necessary for europol to process personal data outside the categories of data subjects listed in annex ii in order to support member states in a specific criminal investigation in accordance with article 18a , including examples of such cases demonstrating why this data processing was necessary; ### annual information about the number of cases where it was necessary for europol to process personal data outside the categories of data subjects listed in annex ii in order to support member states in a specific criminal investigation in accordance with article 18a , alongside data on the duration and outcomes of the processing , including examples of such cases demonstrating why this data processing was necessary;


### annual information about the number of cases where it was necessary for europol to process personal data outside the categories of data subjects listed in annex ii in order to support member states in a specific criminal investigation in accordance with article 18a , including examples of such cases demonstrating why this data processing was necessary; ### annual information about the number of cases where it was necessary for europol to process personal data outside the categories of data subjects listed in annex ii in order to support member states in a specific criminal investigation in accordance with article 18a , including examples of such cases demonstrating why this data processing was necessary and proportionate;


### annual information about the number of cases in which europol issued alerts in the schengen information system in accordance with article 4(1)(r) , and the number of ‘hits’ these alerts generated , including specific examples of cases demonstrating why these alerts were necessary for europol to fulfil its objectives and tasks; ### annual information about the number of cases in which europol issued alerts in the schengen information system in accordance with article 4(1)(r) , and the number of ‘hits’ , investigations and convictions these alerts generated , including specific examples of cases demonstrating why these alerts were necessary for europol to fulfil its objectives and tasks;


### annual information about the number of pilot projects in which europol processed personal data to train , test and validate algorithms for the development of tools , including ai-based tools , for law enforcement in accordance with article 33a , including information on the purposes of these projects and the law enforcement needs they seek to address.; ### annual information about the number of pilot projects in which europol processed personal data to train , test and validate algorithms for the development of tools , including ai-based tools , for law enforcement in accordance with article 33a , including information on the purposes of these projects , the law enforcement needs they seek to address , the outcome of the projects and , if the projects resulted in law enforcement tools , whether or not these tools have been deployed in member states , alongside information on their effectiveness.;


### annual information about the number of pilot projects in which europol processed personal data to train , test and validate algorithms for the development of tools , including ai-based tools , for law enforcement in accordance with article 33a , including information on the purposes of these projects and the law enforcement needs they seek to address.; ### annual information about the number of pilot projects in which europol processed personal data to train , test and validate algorithms for the development of tools , including ai-based tools , for law enforcement in accordance with article 33a , including all information on the elements listed in article 33a paragraph 1.;


### 3. the commission shall , by [three years after entry into force of this regulation] , submit a report to the european parliament and to the council , assessing the operational benefits of the implementation of the competences provided for in article 18(2)(e) and (5a) , article 18a , article 26 and article 26a with regard to europol’s objectives. the report shall cover the impact of those competences on fundamental rights and freedoms as enshrined in the charter of fundamental rights.. ### 3. the commission shall , by [two years after entry into force of this regulation] , submit a report to the european parliament and to the council , assessing the operational benefits of the implementation of the competences provided for in article 18(2)(e) and (5a) , article 18a , article 26 and article 26a with regard to europol’s objectives. the report shall cover the impact of those competences on fundamental rights and freedoms as enshrined in the charter of fundamental rights.


### (2) article 10(3) of the treaty on european union states that every union citizen has the right to participate in the democratic life of the union. the charter of fundamental rights of the european union (the ‘charter’) provides , inter alia , for the rights to respect for private and family life (article 7) , the protection of personal data (article 8) , freedom of expression and information , which includes respect for the freedom and pluralism of the media (article 11) , and to an effective remedy and to a fair trial (article 47). ### (2) article 10(3) of the treaty on european union states that every union citizen has the right to participate in the democratic life of the union. the charter of fundamental rights of the european union (the ‘charter’) provides , inter alia , for the rights to respect for private and family life (article 7) , the protection of personal data (article 8) , freedom of expression and information , which includes respect for the freedom and pluralism of the media (article 11) , freedom of assembly and of association at all levels , (article 12) and to an effective remedy and to a fair trial (article 47).


### (3) the right to freedom of expression and information as set forth in article 11 of the charter includes the right to hold opinions and to receive and impart information and ideas without interference by public authority and regardless of frontiers. article 11 of the charter should be given the meaning and scope of the correspondent article 10 of the european convention on human rights (“echr”) on the right to freedom of expression as interpreted by the european court of human rights (“ecthr”). ### (3) the right to freedom of expression and information as set forth in article 11 of the charter includes the right to hold opinions and to receive and impart information and ideas without interference by public authority and regardless of frontiers. the exercise of these freedoms is necessary in a democratic society for the protections of the reputation or rights of others , for preventing disclosure of information received in confidence or for maintaining the authority and impartiality of the judiciary as set forth in the article 11 of the charter. article 11 of the charter should be given the meaning and scope of the correspondent article 10 of the european convention on human rights (“echr”) on the right to freedom of expression and to hold your own opinons without government interference as interpreted by the european court of human rights (“ecthr”). this includes the right to express your views aloud in any given form.


### (4) the purpose of this directive is to provide protection to natural and legal persons who engage in public participation on matters of public interest , in particular journalists and human rights defenders , against court proceedings , which are initiated against them to deter them from public participation (commonly referred to as strategic lawsuits against public participation or ‘slapps’). ### (4) the purpose of this directive is to provide protection to natural and legal persons who engage in public participation on matters of public interest , in particular journalists and human rights defenders , including to whistleblowers of all kind , such as civil society , non-governmental organisations , researchers , academics , students , artists , against court proceedings , which are initiated against them to deter them from public participation (commonly referred to as strategic lawsuits against public participation or ‘slapps’).


### (5) journalists play an important role in facilitating public debate and in the imparting and reception of information , opinions and ideas. it is essential that they are afforded the necessary space to contribute to an open , free and fair debate and to counter disinformation , information manipulation and interference. journalists should be able to conduct their activities effectively to ensure that citizens have access to a plurality of views in european democracies. ### (5) journalists play an important role in facilitating public debate and in the imparting and reception of information , opinions and ideas. it is essential that they are afforded the necessary space to contribute to an open , free and fair debate and to counter disinformation , information manipulation and interference. journalists should be able to conduct their activities effectively to ensure that citizens have access to a plurality of views in european democracies. journalists should be free to criticize without fear of prosecution or infringed right to freedom of expression and be ensured the protection , safety and empowerment.


### (9) to foster this environment , it is important to protect journalists and human rights defenders from court proceedings against public participation. such court proceedings are not initiated for the purpose of access to justice , but to silence public debate typically using harassment and intimidation. ### (9) to foster this environment , it is important to protect natural or legal persons who engage in public participation , in particular journalists and human rights defenders from court proceedings against public participation. such court proceedings are not initiated for the purpose of access to justice , but to silence public debate typically using harassment and intimidation. court proceeding against public participations are restricting investigations and informing the public of legitimate public interest and therefore hindering the role of watchdogs and restraining the health of democracies.


### (10) slapps are typically initiated by powerful entities , for example individuals , lobby groups , corporations and state organs. they often involve an imbalance of power between the parties , with the claimant having a more powerful financial or political position than the defendant. although not being an indispensable component of such cases , where present , an imbalance of power significantly increases the harmful effects as well as the chilling effects of court proceedings against public participation. ### (10) slapps are typically initiated by powerful entities , for example individuals , lobby groups , corporations , political parties and state organs. they often involve an imbalance of power between the parties , with the claimant having a more powerful financial or political position than the defendant. although not being an indispensable component of such cases , where present , an imbalance of power significantly increases the harmful effects as well as the chilling effects of court proceedings against public participation. slapps as unfounded or abusive court proceedings can be used in civil procedures , but also civil claims brought in criminal proceedings and administrative procedures via arbitrary or vexatious use of legislation , often as defamation lawsuits , against public participation wishing to silence criticism and prevent public scrutiny to the detriment of a public debate.


### (11) court proceedings against public participation may have an adverse impact on the credibility and reputation of journalists and human rights defenders and exhaust their financial and other resources. because of such proceedings , the publication of information on a matter of public interest may be delayed or altogether avoided. the length of procedures and the financial pressure may have a chilling effect on journalists and human rights defenders. the existence of such practices may therefore have a deterrent effect on their work by contributing to self-censorship in anticipation of possible future court proceedings , which leads to the impoverishment of public debate to the detriment of society as a whole. ### (11) court proceedings against public participation may have an adverse impact on the credibility and reputation of journalists and human rights defenders or any other natural or legal person expressed or carried out in exercise of the right to freedom of expression and information on a matter of legitimate public interest and exhaust their financial and other resources. because of such proceedings , the publication of information on a matter of public interest may be delayed or altogether avoided. moreover , court proceedings against public participation are often based on false accusations against journalists and human rights defenders.the length of procedures and the financial pressure may have a chilling effect on journalists and human rights defenders. the existence of such practices may therefore have a deterrent effect on their work by contributing to silencing critical voices , including self-censorship in anticipation of possible future court proceeding as not all slapps reach the court and often remain as a threat of a lawsuits , which leads to the impoverishment of public debate to the detriment of society as a whole.


### (16) public participation should mean any statement or activity by a natural or legal person expressed or carried out in exercise of the right to freedom of expression and information on a matter of public interest , such as the creation , exhibition , advertisement or other promotion of journalistic , political , scientific , academic , artistic , commentary or satirical communications , publications or works , and any preparatory activities directly linked thereto. it can also include activities related to the exercise of the right to freedom of association and peaceful assembly , such as the organisation of or participation to lobbying activities , demonstrations and protests or activities resulting from the exercise of the right to good administration and the right to an effective remedy , such as the filing of complaints , petitions , administrative and judicial claims and participation in public hearings. public participation should also include preparatory , supporting or assisting activities that have a direct and inherent link to the statement or activity in question and that are targeted to stifle public participation. in addition , it can cover other activities meant to inform or influence public opinion or to further action by the public , including activities by any private or public entity in relation to an issue of public interest , such as the organisation of or participation to research , surveys , campaigns or any other collective actions. ### (16) public participation should mean any statement or activity by a natural or legal person expressed or carried out in exercise of the right to freedom of expression and information on a matter of public interest , such as the creation , exhibition , advertisement or other promotion of journalistic content , news and current affairs , political , scientific , academic , artistic , commentary or satirical communications , publications or works , and any preparatory activities directly linked thereto. it can also include activities related to the exercise of the right to freedom of association and peaceful assembly , such as the organisation of or participation to lobbying activities , demonstrations and protests or activities resulting from the exercise of the right to good administration and the right to an effective remedy , such as the filing of complaints , petitions , administrative and judicial claims and participation in public hearings. public participation should also include preparatory , supporting or assisting activities that have a direct and inherent link to the statement or activity in question and that are targeted to stifle public participation. in addition , it can cover other activities meant to inform or influence public opinion or to further action by the public , including activities by any private or public entity in relation to an issue of public interest , such as the organisation of or participation to research , surveys , campaigns or any other collective actions.


### (21) a cross-border dimension of slapps adds to the complexity and challenges faced by defendants , as they need to deal with proceedings in other jurisdictions , sometimes in multiple jurisdictions at the same time. this , in turn , results in additional costs and burdens with even more adverse consequences. ### (21) a cross-border dimension of slapps adds to the complexity and challenges faced by defendants , as they need to deal with proceedings in other jurisdictions , sometimes in multiple jurisdictions at the same time. this , in turn , results in additional costs and burdens to the victims of slapps with the intention to exhaust and silent them with even more adverse consequences.


### (23) defendants should be able to apply for the following procedural safeguards: a request for a security to cover procedural costs , or procedural costs and damages , a request for an early dismissal of manifestly unfounded court proceedings , a request for remedies against abusive court proceedings (award of costs , compensation of damages and penalties) , or all of them at the same time. ### (23) defendants should be able to apply for the following procedural safeguards: a request for a security to cover procedural costs , or procedural costs and damages , a request for an early dismissal of unfounded and abusive court proceedings , a request for remedies against abusive court proceedings (award of costs , compensation of damages and penalties) , or all of them at the same time.


### (26) to provide the defendant with an additional safeguard , there should be a possibility to grant him or her a security to cover procedural costs and/or damages , when the court considers that even if the claim is not manifestly unfounded , there are elements indicating an abuse of procedure and the prospects for success in the main proceedings are low. a security does not entail a judgement on the merits but serves as a precautionary measure ensuring the effects of a final decision finding an abuse of procedure. it should be for member states to decide whether a security should be ordered by the court on its own motion or upon request by the defendant. ### (26) to provide the defendant with an additional safeguard , there should be a possibility to grant him or her a security to cover procedural costs and/or damages , when the court considers that even if the claim is not manifestly unfounded , there are elements indicating an abuse of procedure and the prospects for success in the main proceedings are low. a security does not entail a judgement on the merits but serves as a precautionary measure ensuring the effects of a final decision finding an abuse of procedure..


### (30) if a defendant has applied for early dismissal , it should be for the claimant in the main proceedings to prove in the accelerated procedure that the claim is not manifestly unfounded. this does not represent a limitation of access to justice , taking into account that the claimant carries the burden of proof in relation to that claim in the main proceedings and only needs to meet the much lower threshold of showing that the claim is not manifestly unfounded in order to avoid an early dismissal. ### (30) if a defendant has applied for early dismissal , it should be for the claimant in the main proceedings to prove in the accelerated procedure that the claim is not unfounded. this does not represent a limitation of access to justice , taking into account that the claimant carries the burden of proof in relation to that claim in the main proceedings and only needs to meet the much lower threshold of showing that the claim is not unfounded in order to avoid an early dismissal.


### (31) costs should include all costs of the proceedings , including the full costs of legal representation incurred by the defendant unless such costs are excessive. costs of legal representation exceeding amounts laid down in statutory fee tables should not be considered as excessive per se. full compensation of damages should include both material and immaterial damages , such as physical and psychological harm. ### (31) costs should include all costs of the proceedings , including the full costs of legal representation incurred by the defendant. full compensation of damages should include both material and immaterial damages , such as physical and psychological harm.


### (33) in the cross-border context , it is also important to recognize the threat of slapps from third countries targeting journalists , human rights defenders and other persons engaged in public participation who are domiciled in the european union. they may involve excessive damages awarded against eu journalists , human rights defenders and others. court proceedings in third-countries are more complex and costly for the targets. to protect democracy and freedom of expression and information in the european union and to avoid that the safeguards provided by this directive are undermined by recourse to court proceedings in other jurisdictions , it is important to provide protection also against manifestly unfounded and abusive court proceedings in third countries. ### (33) in the cross-border context , it is also important to recognize the threat of slapps from third countries targeting journalists , human rights defenders and other persons engaged in public participation who are domiciled in the european union. they may involve excessive damages awarded against eu journalists , human rights defenders and others. court proceedings in third-countries are more complex and costly for the targets. to protect democracy and freedom of expression and information in the european union and to avoid that the safeguards provided by this directive are undermined by recourse to court proceedings in other jurisdictions , it is important to provide protection also against unfounded and abusive court proceedings in third countries.


### (36) this directive is complementary to the commission recommendation on protecting journalists and human rights defenders who engage in public participation from manifestly unfounded or abusive court proceedings (“strategic lawsuits against public participation”). this recommendation is addressed to member states and it provides a comprehensive toolbox of measures including training , awareness-raising , support to targets of abusive court proceedings and data collection , reporting and monitoring of court proceedings against public participation. ### (36) this directive is complementary to the commission recommendation on protecting journalists and human rights defenders who engage in public participation from unfounded or abusive court proceedings (“strategic lawsuits against public participation”). this recommendation is addressed to member states and it provides a comprehensive toolbox of measures including training , awareness-raising , support to targets of abusive court proceedings and data collection , reporting and monitoring of court proceedings against public participation.


### this directive provides safeguards against manifestly unfounded or abusive court proceedings in civil matters with cross-border implications brought against natural and legal persons , in particular journalists and human rights defenders , on account of their engagement in public participation. ### this directive provides safeguards against unfounded or abusive court proceedings in civil matters , including civil claims brought in criminal proceedings , with cross-border implications brought against natural and legal persons , in particular journalists and human rights defenders , on account of their engagement in public participation.


### 1. ‘public participation’ means any statement or activity by a natural or legal person expressed or carried out in the exercise of the right to freedom of expression and information on a matter of public interest , and preparatory , supporting or assisting action directly linked thereto. this includes complaints , petitions , administrative or judicial claims and participation in public hearings; ### 1. ‘public participation’ means any statement or activity by a natural or legal person expressed or carried out in the exercise of rights such as the right to freedom of expression and information , academic freedom , freedom of association and assembly on a matter of public interest , and preparatory , supporting or assisting action directly linked thereto. this includes complaints , petitions , demonstrations , administrative or judicial claims and participation in public hearings;


### allegations of corruption , fraud or criminality; ### allegations of corruption , fraud , abuse of power or criminality;


### the disproportionate , excessive or unreasonable nature of the claim or part thereof; ### the disproportionate , vexatious , frivolous , excessive or unreasonable nature of the claim or part thereof;


### early dismissal of manifestly unfounded court proceedings in accordance with chapter iii; ### early dismissal of unfounded court proceedings in accordance with chapter iii;


### member states shall take the necessary measures to ensure that a court or tribunal seised of court proceedings against public participation may accept that non-governmental organisations safeguarding or promoting the rights of persons engaging in public participation may take part in those proceedings , either in support of the defendant or to provide information. ### member states shall take the necessary measures to ensure that a court or tribunal seised of court proceedings against public participation may accept that entities safeguarding or promoting the rights of persons engaging in public participation , such as non-governmental organisations , professional and representative associations , as well as collective bodies acting in the sole interest of the defendant , may take part in those proceedings , either in support of the defendant or to provide information.


### iii early dismissal of manifestly unfounded court proceedings ### iii early dismissal of unfounded and abusive court proceedings


### 1. member states shall empower courts and tribunals to adopt an early decision to dismiss , in full or in part , court proceedings against public participation as manifestly unfounded. ### 1. member states shall empower courts and tribunals to adopt an early decision to dismiss , in full or in part , court proceedings against public participation as unfounded.


### member states shall ensure that where a defendant has applied for early dismissal , it shall be for the claimant to prove that the claim is not manifestly unfounded. ### member states shall ensure that where a defendant has applied for early dismissal , it shall be for the claimant to prove that the claim is not unfounded.


### member states shall take the necessary measures to ensure that a claimant who has brought abusive court proceedings against public participation can be ordered to bear all the costs of the proceedings , including the full costs of legal representation incurred by the defendant , unless such costs are excessive. ### member states shall take the necessary measures to ensure that a claimant who has brought abusive court proceedings against public participation is ordered to bear all the costs of the proceedings , including the full costs of legal representation incurred by the defendant.


### member states shall ensure that the recognition and enforcement of a third-country judgment in court proceedings on account of public participation by natural or legal person domiciled in a member state is refused as manifestly contrary to public policy (ordre public) if those proceedings would have been considered manifestly unfounded or abusive if they had been brought before the courts or tribunals of the member state where recognition or enforcement is sought and those courts or tribunals would have applied their own law. ### member states shall ensure that the recognition and enforcement of a third-country judgment in court proceedings on account of public participation by natural or legal person domiciled in a member state is refused as manifestly contrary to public policy (ordre public) if those proceedings would have been considered unfounded or abusive if they had been brought before the courts or tribunals of the member state where recognition or enforcement is sought and those courts or tribunals would have applied their own law.


### member states shall provide the commission with all relevant information regarding the application of this directive by [5 years from the date of transposition]. on the basis of the information provided , the commission shall by [6 years from the date of transposition] at the latest , submit to the european parliament and the council a report on the application of this directive. the report shall provide an assessment of the evolution of abusive court proceedings against public participation and the impact of this directive in the member states. if necessary , the report shall be accompanied by proposals to amend this directive. ### member states shall provide the commission with all relevant information regarding the application of this directive by [2 years from the date of transposition]. on the basis of the information provided , the commission shall by [3 years from the date of transposition] at the latest , submit to the european parliament and the council a report on the application of this directive. the report shall provide an assessment of the evolution of abusive court proceedings against public participation and the impact of this directive in the member states. if necessary , the report shall be accompanied by proposals to amend this directive.


### member states shall bring into force the laws , regulations and administrative provisions necessary to comply with this directive by [2 years from the date of entry into force of this directive] at the latest. they shall forthwith communicate to the commission the text of those provisions. ### member states shall bring into force the laws , regulations and administrative provisions necessary to comply with this directive by [1 year from the date of entry into force of this directive] at the latest. they shall forthwith communicate to the commission the text of those provisions.


### b. whereas the negative impact on the functioning of eu youth and education programmes , on the national education systems , on employment , and on civil liberties are among the main challenges young people are facing today; ### b. whereas the impact on the functioning of eu youth and education programmes , on the national education systems is aggravating inequalities , as shown in statistics of the oecd , whereby just about half of school students are able to access most or all of the curriculum , despite countries providing online learning solutions and the access to school curricula does not always coincide with learning for students in difficulty;


### 1. is concerned that the youth labour market is highly sensitive to economic cycles and , an economic crisis , youth employment is hit harder as it is dominated by relatively unstable low-paid part-time jobs; ### 1. is concerned that the youth labour market is highly sensitive to economic cycles and , an economic crisis , youth employment is hit harder as it is dominated by relatively unstable low-paid part-time jobs offering little to no legal protection of workers , social security and increasing stress and uncertainty;


### 3. urges the commission and the member states to take all necessary measures to counter the disastrous effects on youth employment , including through macroeconomic (fiscal and monetary) policies that direct public expenditure towards providing hiring subsidies or youth guarantees , as well as investment in economic sectors with the potential to absorb young jobseekers; ### 3. urges the commission and the member states to take all necessary measures to counter the disastrous effects on youth employment , including through macroeconomic (fiscal and monetary) policies that direct public expenditure towards providing hiring subsidies or youth guarantees , as well as investment in economic sectors with the potential to absorb young jobseekers; notes with satisfaction the 28 333 334 eur top up given in may 2020 to the youth employment initiative; asks the commission and the member states to continue to foster this initiative;


### 4. is deeply concerned that , in their agreement of 21 july 2020 , the european council was not ambitious enough in its support for the young generations – the future of europe; underlines in this context that sectoral programmes with a direct focus on youth or with the potential to support the transition towards a fairer , more socially and environmentally sustainable europe , will now not be able to meet their ambitious targets , which is a bitter disappointment for the young people and future generations; ### 4. highlights that , the agreement of 21 july 2020 , the european council should have been more ambitious in its support for the young generations – the future of europe; underlines in this context that sectoral programmes with a direct focus on youth or with the potential to support the transition towards a fairer , more socially and environmentally sustainable europe , will now not be able to meet their ambitious targets , which is a bitter disappointment for the young people and future generations;


### 5. calls for the wide use of alternative learning opportunities , such as online learning and training , a strong focus on technical and vocational education and training , and the use of digital tools and teaching and learning materials , in order to avoid people dropping out of education and to provide for a smooth and effective school-to-work transition; ### 5. calls for the wide use of alternative learning opportunities , such as online learning and training , a strong focus on technical and vocational education and training , and the use of digital tools and teaching and learning materials , in order to avoid people dropping out of education and to provide for a smooth and effective school-to-work transition; calls on the european commission and member states to make sure that no one is left-behind especially in regards to distant learning , which has left many from vulnerable groups without technological means or skills unable to participate;


### 6. urges member states to increase investment in digital solutions for practical skills development and improve access to those solutions; stresses the need to develop competences among teachers , trainers , headteachers and managers to improve the delivery of online , distance and blended learning with a particular focus on skills development programmes; ### 6. urges member states to increase investment in digital solutions for practical skills development and improve access to those solutions; stresses the need to develop competences among teachers , trainers , headteachers and managers as well as providers of informal education to improve the delivery of online , distance and blended learning with a particular focus on skills development programmes;


### 7. is concerned that the covid-19 crisis has increased anxiety and fear among young people , which risks impacting considerably on their lives and school-to-work transition; calls for the wide use of tailored mental health services , psychosocial support and sports activities , acting as stand-alone or modular measures , and for upscaled mental well-being support within training and education institutions; ### 7. is concerned that the covid-19 crisis has increased anxiety and fear among young people , which risks impacting considerably on their lives and school-to-work transition; calls for the wide use of tailored mental health services , psychosocial support and sports activities , acting as stand-alone or modular measures , and for upscaled mental well-being support within training and education institutions; is deeply concerned about the tremendous lack of physical activity observed among young people during the lockdown and believes this might lead to serious public health problems in the foreseen future; asks the commission and the member states to develop well-funded sport-programmes towards young people;


### 8. calls for a rights-based approach in the various policies rooted in the principles of non-discrimination and equality in order to tackle the multiple forms of discrimination suffered by young people during the covid-19 crisis , and to protect vulnerable groups , such as homeless young people and young migrants and refugees; ### 8. calls for a rights-based approach in the various policies rooted in the principles of non-discrimination and equality in order to tackle the multiple forms of discrimination suffered by young people during the covid-19 crisis , and to protect vulnerable groups , such as homeless young people , young people at risk of domestic violence and young migrants and refugees;


### 10. underlines that sport and physical exercise are particularly important under the circumstances caused by the pandemic; ### 10. underlines that sport and physical exercise are particularly important under the circumstances caused by the pandemic due to its health , social and psychological benefits;


### 11. considers that general recovery instruments adopted by the eu in response to the crisis can help support the sports sector in the short term and urges member states to ensure that national support funds benefit the sports sector despite its specific characteristics and organisational structures; ### 11. considers that general recovery instruments adopted by the eu in response to the crisis can help support the sports sector in the short term and urges member states to ensure that national support funds benefit the sports sector despite its specific characteristics and organisational structures; for the mid to long-term period , invites the commission and the member states to make sure that sport and physical activity are included in the implementation of post2020 european funds , such as the eu4health programme , the european regional development fund , the cohesion fund , interreg and the european social fund plus;


### 12. believes that existing financial support will not be sufficient and calls on the commission to explore all possible avenues to deliver additional targeted support for the sport sector; ### 12. believes that existing financial support will not be sufficient and calls on the commission to explore all possible avenues to deliver additional targeted support for the sport sector especially taking into account the different needs of amateur and professional sports;


### 13. invites the commission to thoroughly assess the socio-economic impact of the covid-19 pandemic on sport and , based on the results of this assessment , develop a coordinated european approach to cope with the challenges and mitigate the consequences; ### 13. invites the commission to thoroughly assess the social and economic impact of the covid-19 pandemic on sport and , based on the results of this assessment , develop a coordinated european approach to cope with the challenges and mitigate the consequences; encourages to pay special attention to the social impact of the pandemic on sports , which might be more difficult to measure and therefore requires target efforts , monitoring , support and funding;


### 13. invites the commission to thoroughly assess the socio-economic impact of the covid-19 pandemic on sport and , based on the results of this assessment , develop a coordinated european approach to cope with the challenges and mitigate the consequences; ### 13. invites the commission to thoroughly assess the socio-economic impact of the covid-19 pandemic on sport and , based on the results of this assessment , develop a coordinated european approach to cope with the challenges and mitigate the consequences including harmonized rules regarding the attendance of arenas and similar venues;


### 15. calls on the commission to coordinate all measures taken to address the consequences of the covid-19 pandemic on sport in a dedicated eu action plan; ### 15. calls on the commission to coordinate all measures taken to address the consequences of the covid-19 pandemic on sport in a dedicated eu action plan which highlights the social aspect of inclusion and integration through sport , especially for migrants and people from socially disadvantaged backgrounds;


### 1. welcomes the eu’s global response to the covid-19 pandemic , which demonstrates its ambition to lead and show solidarity with all partner countries; points out , however , that current funds are essentially reallocated from other budget lines and that the challenge of aid front-loading has to be tackled; calls , therefore , for substantial new funds to be mobilised to assist developing countries worldwide in fighting the direct and indirect consequences of the covid-19 pandemic; stresses that making safe vaccines available globally in a fast and affordable manner must be one of the first steps; ### 1. welcomes the eu’s global response to the covid-19 pandemic , which demonstrates its ambition to lead and show solidarity with all partner countries; points out , however , that current funds are essentially reallocated from other budget lines; calls , therefore , for substantial new funds to be mobilised to assist developing countries worldwide in fighting the direct and indirect consequences of the covid-19 pandemic; stresses that making safe vaccines , treatments , equipment and diagnostics available globally in a fast and affordable manner must be one of the first steps;


### 6. underlines that global extreme poverty is expected to rise dramatically in 2020 for the first time in over 20 years , with the covid-19 pandemic compounding the forces of conflict and climate change and having a particularly hard impact on informal and migrant workers (who represent one quarter of the global workforce) , the tourism sector and latin american and caribbean economies; highlights , against the backdrop of this extreme crisis , the importance of universal social protection; asks the commission to work out strategies with partner countries for the economic recovery and job creation and for improving social security systems; ### 6. underlines that global extreme poverty is expected to rise dramatically in 2020 for the first time in over 20 years , with the covid-19 pandemic compounding the forces of conflict , poor governance and climate change and having a particularly hard impact on informal and migrant workers (who represent one quarter of the global workforce) , women and the tourism sector; highlights , against the backdrop of this extreme crisis , the importance of universal social protection; asks the commission to design strategies with partner countries for economic recovery , job creation and for improving social security systems , with a particular emphasis on harnessing the opportunities of the digital transition;


### 8. calls for the revision of proposed or existing strategies with the aim of further strengthening health systems in partner countries , in particular as regards preparedness for pandemics and the organisation and management of health systems , including the provision of universal healthcare , health monitoring and information , training of medical staff , diagnostic capacity and medicine supply; ### 8. calls for the revision of proposed or existing strategies with the aim of further strengthening health systems (including from private providers) in partner countries , in particular as regards preparedness for pandemics and the organisation and management of health systems , including the provision of universal healthcare , health monitoring and information (including disease surveillance) , training , recruitment and retention of medical staff , diagnostic capacity and medicine supply; urges the eu to promote increased investment in health system strengthening;


### a. whereas humanitarian aid is severely underfunded , which makes it difficult to adequately address the consequences of the covid-19 pandemic in developing countries; ### a. whereas humanitarian aid is severely underfunded , which makes it difficult to adequately address the consequences of the covid-19 pandemic in developing countries , particularly those left furthest behind and those impacted by conflict;


### c. whereas the covid-19 pandemic has greatly exacerbated the existing debt problems of developing countries; ### c. whereas the covid-19 pandemic has greatly exacerbated the existing debt problems of developing countries , while also severely reducing global remittances and fdi;


### d. whereas school closures due to the pandemic have deprived vulnerable children of school feeding and nutrition services that are essential to their health; ### d. whereas school closures due to the pandemic have deprived vulnerable children of school feeding and nutrition services that are essential to their health; whereas interruptions to education could have a lasting impact on the long-term prospects of many young people , in particular girls;


### humanitarian aid funding ### humanitarian and development aid funding


### 3. is deeply concerned about the underfunding of the eu humanitarian aid budget , given the additional humanitarian needs caused by the pandemic; calls for a clear distribution of the solidarity and emergency aid reserve (sear) envelope , which should aim to provide balanced coverage of its obligations as follows: neither internal nor external operations may be allocated more than 60 % of the annual amount of the reserve; on 1 october of each year , at least one quarter of the annual amount for ‘year n' must remain available to cover needs arising until the end of that year; as of 1 october , the remaining funds may be mobilised to cover needs arising until the end of that year; ### 3. warns that the pandemic risks triggering a humanitarian crisis; is therefore deeply concerned about the underfunding of the eu humanitarian aid budget , given the additional humanitarian needs caused by the pandemic; calls for a clear distribution of the solidarity and emergency aid reserve (sear) envelope , which should aim to provide balanced coverage of its obligations as follows: neither internal nor external operations may be allocated more than 60 % of the annual amount of the reserve; on 1 october of each year , at least one quarter of the annual amount for ‘year n' must remain available to cover needs arising until the end of that year; as of 1 october , the remaining funds may be mobilised to cover needs arising until the end of that year;


### 4. underlines that pastoral farming is an ecologically sound , local method of food production and is therefore part of a sustainable food system; considers it essential to support pastoralists by ensuring safe access to local markets during the pandemic in order to make sure that they are able to continue to provide protein-rich food to the local population , that their herds have access to water and grazing land and that mobile community one-health teams monitor the situation and carry out interventions in individual cases but also , where necessary , with a view to maintaining public health; calls for cash transfers and food aid for pastoralists , as well as feed aid for herds , as part of livelihood support in humanitarian aid , when this is needed; ### 4. emphasises that the pandemic is threatening food security in rural , urban and peri-urban settings; underlines that pastoral farming is an ecologically sound , local method of food production and is therefore part of a sustainable food system; considers it essential to support pastoralists by ensuring safe access to local markets during the pandemic in order to make sure that they are able to continue to provide protein-rich food to the local population , that their herds have access to water and grazing land and that mobile community one-health teams monitor the situation and carry out interventions in individual cases but also , where necessary , with a view to maintaining public health; calls for cash transfers and food aid for pastoralists , as well as feed aid for herds , as part of livelihood support in humanitarian aid , when this is needed;


### 5. emphasises the need to support the actions of the fao and the wfp aimed at mitigating hunger and loss of livelihood and building up resilient food systems , such as those to set up a global data facility for the provision of swift information on humanitarian needs , to provide food production assistance and access to food , to organise cash transfers and in-kind food distribution , to stabilise food systems , and to ensure the functioning of local food markets , value chains and systems while focusing on smallholder farmers by implementing sanitary measures in order to prevent the transmission of covid-19; ### 5. emphasises the need to support the actions of the fao and the wfp aimed at mitigating hunger and loss of livelihood and building up resilient food systems , such as those to set up a global data facility for the provision of swift information on humanitarian needs , to provide food production assistance and access to food , to organise cash transfers and in-kind food distribution , to stabilise food systems , and to ensure the functioning of local food markets , value chains and systems;


### 5. emphasises the need to support the actions of the fao and the wfp aimed at mitigating hunger and loss of livelihood and building up resilient food systems , such as those to set up a global data facility for the provision of swift information on humanitarian needs , to provide food production assistance and access to food , to organise cash transfers and in-kind food distribution , to stabilise food systems , and to ensure the functioning of local food markets , value chains and systems while focusing on smallholder farmers by implementing sanitary measures in order to prevent the transmission of covid-19; ### 5. emphasises the need to support the actions of the fao and the wfp aimed at mitigating hunger and loss of livelihood and building up resilient food systems , such as those to set up a global data facility for the provision of swift information on humanitarian needs , to provide food production assistance and access to food , to organise cash transfers and in-kind food distribution and school meals , to stabilise food systems , and to ensure the functioning of local food markets , value chains and systems while focusing on smallholder farmers by implementing sanitary measures in order to prevent the transmission of covid-19;


### refugees ### refugees and displaced persons


### 7. urges the commission to address the specific needs of refugees , upholding the guiding principle of public health networks of leaving no-one behind and refraining from blocking front-line humanitarian workers from having direct contact with the migrants and refugees they serve; stresses the absolute need for equal access to covid-19 treatment and other health services and safety net programmes for all affected people , regardless of nationality , migrant/refugee status , origin , sex , gender identity or any other characteristic; ### 7. urges the commission to address the specific needs of refugees and displaced persons , who risk falling through the gaps when it comes to vaccine provision , while upholding the guiding principle of public health networks of leaving no-one behind and refraining from blocking front-line humanitarian workers from having direct contact with those that they serve; stresses the absolute need for equal access to covid-19 treatment and other health services and safety net programmes for all affected people , regardless of nationality , legal status , origin , sex , gender identity or any other characteristic; emphasises that eu policies should seek to support access to employment , education and civic documentation , which will promote the ability of refugees to work towards self-reliance;


### 9. stresses the need to catch up on routine immunisation programmes as soon as possible and to provide adequate funding for initiatives such as gavi , the vaccine alliance , and cepi , the coalition for epidemic preparedness innovations; calls on the commission to ensure that the eu global response to the covid-19 pandemic does not undermine eu funding for other vital health programmes , including the minimum initial services package for sexual and reproductive health and programmes targeting the health of women and pregnant women; urges all countries and the commission to continue to provide services related to sexual and reproductive health and rights (srhr) as well as routine immunisation services , while ensuring the safety of communities and health workers; ### 9. stresses the need to catch up on routine immunisation programmes as soon as possible and to ensure that the provision of other basic health services is resumed; calls for adequate funding for initiatives such as gavi , the vaccine alliance , and cepi , the coalition for epidemic preparedness innovations; is concerned about the outsourced , fragmented global vaccine governance system , which has led to competition for vaccines , diagnostics and treatments , rather than cooperation; urges the eu and member states to lead calls for equal and affordable vaccine access worldwide based on the principle of global solidarity; calls on the commission to ensure that the eu global response to the covid-19 pandemic does not undermine eu funding for other vital health programmes , including the minimum initial services package for sexual and reproductive health and programmes targeting the health of women and pregnant women; urges all countries and the commission to continue to support partner countries in providing services related to sexual and reproductive health and rights (srhr) , while ensuring the safety of communities and health workers;


### 10. supports the important work of the who and points out its central role as the leading and coordinating authority on the covid-19 response , while recognising the need for its reform after the acute crisis has been managed; ### 10. supports the important work of the who and points out its central role as the leading and coordinating authority on the covid-19 response , while recognising the need for its reform , including , but not limited to , the reform of the international health regulations , after the acute crisis has been managed;


### 11. highlights the especially severe consequences of covid-19 lockdowns and the collateral damage that has been suffered by women , girls and children , in particular the rise in gender-based violence , but also the exposure of women to covid-19 due to their disproportionately high representation in the global health workforce; calls for action to counterbalance the disproportionate care burden borne by women and any potential roll-backs in safety , health , emancipation , economic independence and empowerment , and education , through specific programmes such as the spotlight initiative and by re-focusing european support; calls for meaningful participation of women in the decisions that impact their health and working lives; underlines the need to include the gender perspective in the eu’s covid-19 response , to advocate for inclusive decision-making bodies and collect sex- and age-disaggregated data for gender analysis; ### 11. highlights the especially severe consequences of covid-19 lockdowns and the collateral damage that has been suffered by women , girls and children , in particular restricted access to sexual and reproductive health services , the rise in gender-based violence and early and unwanted pregnancies , but also the exposure of women to covid-19 due to their disproportionately high representation in the global health workforce; calls for action to counterbalance the disproportionate care burden borne by women and any potential roll-backs in safety , health , emancipation , economic independence and empowerment , and education , through specific programmes such as the spotlight initiative and the gender action plan iii and by re-focusing european support; calls for meaningful participation of women in the decisions that impact their health and working lives; underlines the need to include the gender perspective in the eu’s covid-19 response , to advocate for inclusive decision-making bodies and collect sex- and age-disaggregated data for gender analysis;


### 11. highlights the especially severe consequences of covid-19 lockdowns and the collateral damage that has been suffered by women , girls and children , in particular the rise in gender-based violence , but also the exposure of women to covid-19 due to their disproportionately high representation in the global health workforce; calls for action to counterbalance the disproportionate care burden borne by women and any potential roll-backs in safety , health , emancipation , economic independence and empowerment , and education , through specific programmes such as the spotlight initiative and by re-focusing european support; calls for meaningful participation of women in the decisions that impact their health and working lives; underlines the need to include the gender perspective in the eu’s covid-19 response , to advocate for inclusive decision-making bodies and collect sex- and age-disaggregated data for gender analysis; ### 11. highlights the especially severe consequences of covid-19 lockdowns and the collateral damage that has been suffered by women , girls and children , in particular the rise in gender-based violence , the increasing incidence of child marriage and female genital mutilation , but also the exposure of women to covid-19 due to their disproportionately high representation in the global health workforce; calls for action to counterbalance the disproportionate care burden borne by women and any potential roll-backs in safety , health , emancipation , economic independence and empowerment , and education , through specific programmes such as the spotlight initiative and by re-focusing european support; calls for the meaningful participation of women in the decisions that impact their health and working lives; underlines the need to include the gender perspective in the eu’s covid-19 response , to advocate for inclusive decision-making bodies and to collect sex- and age-disaggregated data for gender analysis;


### 12. is concerned that , since the beginning of the covid-19 crisis , many governments have used the emergency to justify placing restrictions on democratic processes and the civil space and to oppress minorities; draws attention to the growing negative impact of covid-19 on all human rights , democracy and the rule of law and calls , therefore , for the strengthening of aid , political dialogue and support for institution-building in all these fields , with particular attention to human rights defenders; ### 12. is concerned that , since the beginning of the covid-19 crisis , many governments have used the emergency to justify placing restrictions on democratic processes and the civil space and to oppress minorities; draws attention to the growing negative impact of covid-19 on all human rights , democracy and the rule of law and calls , therefore , for the strengthening of aid , political dialogue and support for institution-building in all these fields , with particular attention to human rights defenders , while recognising that a balance needs to be found between individual freedoms and saving lives;


### 14. points out that the budgets of many developing countries were already out of balance before the crisis and that too little funding was allocated to crisis prevention , health systems and social protection; calls on the commission to take new initiatives to tackle the problems of illicit financial flows , tax evasion and tax fraud in order to improve the tax bases of developing countries; calls , furthermore , for budget support to be directed towards basic services and resilience; ### 14. points out that many developing countries were already experiencing significant levels of debt before the pandemic , thereby preventing adequate investments in crisis prevention , health systems and social protection; underlines the importance of addressing debt sustainability in partner countries as a priority; calls on the commission to take new initiatives to tackle the problems of illicit financial flows , tax evasion and tax fraud in order to improve the tax bases of developing countries; calls , furthermore , for budget support to be directed towards basic services and resilience;


### 15. underlines the fact that the covid-19 pandemic has led to unprecedented numbers of pupils missing out on months of schooling , constituting a major set-back to efforts in the education sector especially with regard to girls’ and women’s education; urges governments to use school closures only as a measure of last resort in the fight against the pandemic; presses for education to be kept as a spending priority in eu development policy and for due consideration to be given to the social function of schools; urges governments , in this context , to prioritise support for the most marginalised children and their families; recommends that eu countries share their approaches to keeping up teaching even in times of crisis and asks the eu and its member states to exploit the potential of remote and digital learning in their international support programmes; ### 15. underlines the fact that the covid-19 pandemic has led to unprecedented numbers of pupils missing out on months of schooling , constituting a major set-back to efforts in the education sector especially with regard to girls’ and women’s education , including sex education; urges governments to use school closures only as a measure of last resort in the fight against the pandemic; presses for education to be kept as a spending priority in eu development policy and for due consideration to be given to the social function of schools; urges governments , in this context , to prioritise support for the most marginalised children and their families; recommends that eu countries share their approaches to keeping up teaching even in times of crisis and asks the eu and its member states to exploit the potential of remote and digital learning in their international support programmes;


### 15. underlines the fact that the covid-19 pandemic has led to unprecedented numbers of pupils missing out on months of schooling , constituting a major set-back to efforts in the education sector especially with regard to girls’ and women’s education; urges governments to use school closures only as a measure of last resort in the fight against the pandemic; presses for education to be kept as a spending priority in eu development policy and for due consideration to be given to the social function of schools; urges governments , in this context , to prioritise support for the most marginalised children and their families; recommends that eu countries share their approaches to keeping up teaching even in times of crisis and asks the eu and its member states to exploit the potential of remote and digital learning in their international support programmes; ### 15. underlines the fact that the covid-19 pandemic has led to unprecedented numbers of pupils missing out on months of schooling , constituting a major set-back to efforts in the education sector especially with regard to the education of women , girls and displaced persons; urges governments to use school closures only as a measure of last resort in the fight against the pandemic; calls for education to remain a spending priority in eu development policy and for due consideration to be given to the social function of schools; urges governments , in this context , to prioritise support for the most marginalised children and their families; recommends that eu countries share their approaches to keeping up teaching even in times of crisis and asks the eu and its member states to exploit the potential of remote and digital learning in their international support programmes;


### 16. underlines the importance of assisting and exchanging best practice with partner countries in identifying vulnerabilities , building up prevention and crisis response mechanisms as well as protecting critical infrastructure in order better to deal with future systemic shocks of all kinds; ### deleted


### 16. underlines the importance of assisting and exchanging best practice with partner countries in identifying vulnerabilities , building up prevention and crisis response mechanisms as well as protecting critical infrastructure in order better to deal with future systemic shocks of all kinds; ### 16. underlines the importance of universal health coverage and assisting and exchanging best practice with partner countries in identifying vulnerabilities , building up prevention and crisis response mechanisms as well as protecting critical infrastructure in order better to deal with future systemic shocks of all kinds , especially health threats and the consequences of climate change and biodiversity loss;


### 17. points out that pandemics are often of zoonotic origin; underlines , therefore , the need to support education programmes regarding the dangers of hunting and trading in wild animals as well as the stricter protection of ecosystems and habitats; ### deleted


### 17. points out that pandemics are often of zoonotic origin; underlines , therefore , the need to support education programmes regarding the dangers of hunting and trading in wild animals as well as the stricter protection of ecosystems and habitats; ### 17. points out that pandemics are often of zoonotic origin; stresses that , in the communication on the eu biodiversity strategy for 2030 , the eu undertakes to step up ‘its support to global efforts to apply the one health approach , which recognises the intrinsic connection between human health , animal health and healthy resilient nature’; underlines , therefore , the need to support education programmes regarding the dangers of hunting and trading in wild animals as well as the stricter protection of ecosystems and habitats; calls for increased support for partner countries in preventing poaching and the trafficking of wild animals , ensuring in particular that local communities are involved in wildlife protection;


### 18. points out that , even in times of crisis , food production and distribution must be an absolute priority; considers that dependence on external sources of food , plants , seeds and fertilisers should be reduced , while local and diversified agricultural production should be increased , and knowledge about new , old and more resilient seeds shared; ### deleted


### 19. underlines that implementation of the humanitarian-development-peace nexus has to be a priority in the programming of the ndici in fragile countries; calls on the commission’s dg echo and dg devco to implement complementary programmes suited to local contexts and local opportunities , whenever possible , in order to mutually reinforce the different aspects of the nexus; ### 19. underlines that implementation of the humanitarian-development-peace nexus has to be a priority in the programming of the ndici in fragile countries; emphasises the importance of peace building for sustainable development , therefore calls for a renewed focus on addressing the root causes of conflict and instability around the world; calls on the commission’s dg echo and dg devco to implement complementary and flexible programmes suited to local contexts and local opportunities , whenever possible , in order to mutually reinforce the different aspects of the nexus;


### 1. recalls that education is a key tool for achieving the objectives of the european pillar of social rights , which states that ‘everyone has the right to quality and inclusive education , training and life-long learning in order to maintain and acquire skills that enable them to participate fully in society’; ### 1. recalls that education is an investment for the union’s future and a key tool for achieving the objectives of the european pillar of social rights , which states that ‘everyone has the right to quality and inclusive education , training and life-long learning in order to maintain and acquire skills that enable them to participate fully in society’;


### 1. calls on the commission to work with the member states to put the european pillar of social rights (epsr) at the heart of economic recovery programmes , in order to promote equal opportunities , women’s participation in the labour market , fair working conditions and sustainable social protection; ### 1. takes note of the commission’s commitment to adopt an action plan to implement the european pillar of social rights (epsr) in order to promote equal opportunities , women’s participation in the labour market , fair working conditions and sustainable social protection; underlines the need to make gender mainstreaming an integral part of this plan; calls on the commission to respect the principle of subsidiarity as enshrined in the treaties when proposing this plan;


### 2. asserts that an adequate education and training in transitions to environmentally and socially sustainable economies can become a strong driver of job creation , social justice and poverty eradication; ### 2. asserts that an adequate education and training in transitions to environmentally and socially sustainable economies can become a strong driver of job creation , social justice and poverty eradication; calls for the union to facilitate stronger cooperation , information sharing and exchange of best practices between member states and their education and training systems;


### 3. underlines that the commission and the member states must hold as a guiding principle that women and men should receive equal pay for equal work , especially when designing response measures to the covid-19 crisis; ### 3. underlines that the commission and the member states must hold as a guiding principle that women and men should receive equal pay for equal work , especially when designing response measures to the covid-19 crisis; stresses in this regard the need for the commission and member states to introduce measures to combat gender segregation in highly feminised occupational sectors and to tackle the gender pay and pension gaps; welcomes the forthcoming proposal on binding pay transparency measures in this regard;


### 4. calls on the commission and the member states to empower women through high-quality , tailored digital education and individualised training and skill development; ### 4. calls on the commission and the member states to empower women in ai , ict and stem sectors through high-quality , tailored digital education and individualised training and skill development and adopt concrete gender mainstreaming measures in the implementation of the single market strategy and the digital agenda;


### 5. calls for an enhanced university-business dialogue to allow for study in a sector where there will be jobs , particularly in vulnerable communities , regions and sectors; ### 5. calls for enhanced cooperation between educational institutions and the business environment to allow for studies in sector where there will be greater need of jobs; calls for more public-private partnerships to realise the full potential of our educational systems and for lifelong up- and re-skilling; calls member states to explore compulsory traineeships as part of university curricula;


### 5. calls on the commission and the member states to provide equal access to technology , education , training , employment , social protection systems and healthcare for all , especially for vulnerable groups such as persons with disabilities , women living in rural areas and elderly women , so they can fully benefit and actively participate in the life of their communities. ### 5. calls on the commission and the member states to provide equal access to technology , education , training , employment , social protection systems and healthcare for all , especially for vulnerable groups such as women with disabilities , women living in rural and peripheral areas , single parent households , racial and ethnic minority women , refugees , lgbtqi+ people and elderly women , so they can fully benefit and actively participate in the life of their communities.


### 6. calls on governments and employers to invest in programmes and measures to ensure that vulnerable individuals have the skills necessary for a successful transition to a zero-emission economy; ### 6. calls on governments and employers to invest in programmes and measures to ensure that vulnerable individuals have the skills necessary to embrace the green and digital transitions; recalls particular attention must be given to people with disabilities who often fall under double discrimination;


### c. whereas despite gender equality being enshrined in the treaty on the functioning of the european union (tfeu) and in the eu charter of fundamental rights , the gender employment gap stands at 11.7 % , the pay gap at 15.7 % and the pension gap at 30.1 %; ### c. whereas despite gender equality is one of the fundamental principles of the european union , enshrined in articles 2 and 3(3)of the treaty on european union , article 8 of the treaty on the functioning of the european union (tfeu) and article 21 and 23 of the eu charter of fundamental rights , , the gender employment gap stands at 11.7 % , the pay gap at 15.7 % and the pension gap at 30.1 %;


### d. whereas digital education and skills are key to adjusting to the digital transition of europe’s economy and society; whereas women are underrepresented in ict professions; ### d. whereas digital education and skills are key to adjusting to the digital transition of europe’s economy and society; whereas women are underrepresented in ict , science , technology , engineering and mathematics (stem) and ai sectors; whereas women’s entrepreneurship enhances women’s empowerment and social inclusion and it boosts employment , supports diversification of business , stimulates innovation and growth;


### a. whereas gender equality is a basic precondition for the full enjoyment of human rights by women and girls , and is essential for their empowerment and the achievement of a sustainable and inclusive society; whereas the insufficient use of human capital associated with gender inequalities reduces the potential advantages for businesses in the fields of research and innovation , and for overall economic development , as well as having harmful social consequences; ### a. whereas gender equality is a basic precondition for the full enjoyment of human rights by women and girls , and is essential for their empowerment and the achievement of a sustainable and inclusive society; whereas the insufficient use of human capital associated with gender inequalities , in combination with intersectional discrimination , reduces the potential advantages for businesses in the fields of research and innovation , and for overall economic development , as well as having harmful social consequences; whereas women could play a vital role in filling shortages on the eu-labour market , specifically in the fields of engineering and ict.


### 8. highlights that male teachers and other male staff dominate stem-related studies in schools and , later on , in universities and workplaces , leading to an absence of female role models and limited guidance and mentoring opportunities; encourages gender mainstreaming in primary , secondary and tertiary education , and urges the committees and institutions involved in recruitment to promote gender balance to avoid the ‘outsider effect’; ### 8. highlights that male teachers and other male staff dominate stem-related studies in schools and , later on , in universities and workplaces , leading to an absence of female role models and limited guidance and mentoring opportunities; encourages gender mainstreaming in primary , secondary and tertiary education through gender-sensitive educational content , teacher training and curricula , and urges the committees and institutions involved in recruitment to promote gender balance to avoid the ‘outsider effect’;


### 15. highlights that one of ai’s most critical weaknesses relates to certain types of biases such as gender , race or sexual orientation as a result of humans’ inherent biases; encourages the relevant actors to take action and promote a greater role for women in the design , development and implementation of machine learning , natural language processing and ai; ### 15. highlights that one of ai’s most critical weaknesses relates to certain types of biases such as gender , race or sexual orientation as a result of humans’ inherent biases; notes that the intersection of various types of discrimination marginalises women from emerging technologies , such as the errors seen for women of colour in facial recognition technology; encourages the relevant actors to take action and promote a greater role for women in the design , development and implementation of machine learning , natural language processing and ai;


### 18. regrets the fact that women are under-represented in innovation-driven business start-ups and highlights the gender biases and systemic disadvantages that exist in social structures , in particular in those at the intersection of stem and entrepreneurship; ### 18. regrets the fact that women are under-represented in innovation-driven business start-ups and highlights the gender biases and systemic disadvantages that exist in social structures , in particular in those at the intersection of stem and entrepreneurship; calls on the commission and the member states to provide more and better information about entrepreneurship as an attractive career option , especially for young women in school , and implement public policies that promote female entrepreneurship.


### 1. recalls the particularly close historical ties binding the european union (eu) and africa , and the eu’s major contribution both in terms of development aid1 and in the smooth functioning of the african union (au)2 ; ### 1. recalls the particularly close historical ties binding the european union (eu) and africa , the eu’s major contribution both in terms of development aid1 and in the smooth functioning of the african union (au)2 and reaffirms that the partnership between africa and the eu must be established between two equal entities that are loyal and credible partners.


### 2. calls for the strengthening of efforts to combat corruption – constituting as it does a major obstacle to effective development , preventing africa’s peoples from fully benefiting from the effects of joint eu-au policies – to be taken into account in the comprehensive strategy with africa; ### 2. calls for the strengthening of efforts to combat corruption – constituting as it does a major obstacle to effective development , preventing africa’s peoples from fully benefiting from the effects of joint eu-au policies – to be taken into account in the comprehensive strategy with africa; proposes stepping up the channelling of eu funds to direct beneficiaries via international organisations on the ground; stresses the importance of promoting human rights , women's and minority rights , democracy and good governance in eu-africa relations , in particular by strengthening links to and support for civil society in african countries;


### 2. calls for the development of a genuine partnership between equals , and urges both sides to move beyond the donor-recipient relationship; emphasises the importance of liaising with our african partners and of defining clearly the roadmap for the partnership and the responsibilities of each side; ### 2. calls for the development of a genuine partnership between equals , and urges both sides to move beyond the donor-recipient relationship; emphasises the importance of liaising with our african partners and of defining clearly the roadmap for the partnership and the responsibilities of each side based on a clear evaluation of the implementation of previous joint agreements;


### 3. considers that the issue of migration must be prioritised in a context in which more than half of all asylum applications in the eu are rejected in a final court decision3; takes the view , therefore , that we must focus on making returns more effective by signing readmission agreements and issuing consular laissez-passers; ### 3. considers that the issue of migration constitutes a long-term priority issue in eu-africa relations and that a strong dialogue between the eu , the au and the african states is needed on the issue in order to address the root causes of migration and promote partnerships on migration and mobility; considers that the fight against smugglers and human traffickers must be conducted jointly with the two parties , and with the support of europol , among others; proposes increasing eu support for the creation of reception centres in african countries for people fleeing wars or persecution , in order to ensure decent , humane and healthy conditions; proposes stepping up programmes for resettlement from african countries to the eu , for refugees;


### 3. considers that the issue of migration must be prioritised in a context in which more than half of all asylum applications in the eu are rejected in a final court decision3 ; takes the view , therefore , that we must focus on making returns more effective by signing readmission agreements and issuing consular laissez-passers; ### 3. considers that migration must be prioritised in a context in which more than half of all asylum applications in the eu are rejected in a final court decision3 ; takes the view that we must develop a strong cooperation in the field of migration , established on the principles of solidarity , shared responsibility and respect for human rights; underlines the importance of ensuring effectiveness and due process in the return policy and in the conclusion of readmission agreements , giving preference to voluntary return , and ensuring that the rights and dignity of individuals are fully protected and respected.


### 3. considers that the issue of migration must be prioritised in a context in which more than half of all asylum applications in the eu are rejected in a final court decision3 ; takes the view , therefore , that we must focus on making returns more effective by signing readmission agreements and issuing consular laissez-passers; ### 3. considers that the issue of migration must be prioritised in a context in which almost half of all asylum applications in the eu are accepted; takes the view , therefore , that we must focus on making returns more effective by signing readmission agreements and issuing consular laissez-passers;


### 4. supports the digitisation and modernisation of public administration in african countries , in particular with a view to developing reliable civil registration agencies and promoting data exchange so as to combat terrorism and organised crime; ### 4. supports the digitisation and modernisation of public administration in african countries , in particular with a view to developing reliable civil registration agencies and promoting data exchange so as to combat terrorism and organised crime; reiterates that the fight against terrorism is a common priority; calls on the eu to continue in its efforts and to provide a more comprehensive assistance to african partners in regions affected by terrorism;


### 4. supports the digitisation and modernisation of public administration in african countries , in particular with a view to developing reliable civil registration agencies and promoting data exchange so as to combat terrorism and organised crime; ### 4. supports the digitisation and modernisation of public administration in african countries , in particular with a view to developing reliable civil registration agencies and promoting data exchange so as to combat terrorism and all sorts of organised crime , notably human trafficking and smuggling;


### 4. highlights the commitment of the international community to achieving the 17 sdgs; considers that the africa-eu partnership will determine to a decisive degree whether that commitment is met; ### 4. highlights the commitment of the international community to achieving the 17 sdgs; considers that the africa-eu partnership should be based on a strategic and cross-cutting approach that incorporates all of the sdgs in order to establish best practice in responding to the global challenges of poverty , inequality , climate and environmental change , lasting prosperity , peace and justice;