### (8) the 8th eap should support the environment and climate action objectives of the european green deal in line with the long-term objective to “live well , within the planetary boundaries” by 2050 , which is already established in the 7th eap. it should contribute to achieving the united nations’ 2030 agenda and its sustainable development goals. ### (8) the 8th eap should support the environment and climate action objectives of the european green deal in line with the long-term objective to “live well , within the planetary boundaries” by 2050 , which is already established in the 7th eap. it should ensure that the union meets all the commitments of the biodiversity strategy , including protecting at least 30 % of the union’s marine and terrestrial areas , and of strictly protecting at least 10 % of these areas. it should contribute to achieving the united nations’ 2030 agenda and its sustainable development goals , the paris agreement and the international agreements made in the framework of the convention on biological diversity (cbd).


### (8) the 8th eap should support the environment and climate action objectives of the european green deal in line with the long-term objective to “live well , within the planetary boundaries” by 2050 , which is already established in the 7th eap. it should contribute to achieving the united nations’ 2030 agenda and its sustainable development goals. ### (8) the 8th eap should support the objectives of the european green deal to tackle climate and environment- related challenges in line with the long-term objective to “live well , within the planetary boundaries” by 2050 , which is already established in the 7th eap. it should contribute to achieving the united nations’ 2030 agenda and its sustainable development goals and to use a political momentum and set out on an ambitious path of the eu leading on a new , aspiring global biodiversity framework to be agreed at cop15 of the convention on biological diversity in kunming , china as well as to show leadership at the un climate change conference (unccc cop26) in glasgow.


### (8) the 8th eap should support the environment and climate action objectives of the european green deal in line with the long-term objective to “live well , within the planetary boundaries” by 2050 , which is already established in the 7th eap. it should contribute to achieving the united nations’ 2030 agenda and its sustainable development goals. ### (8) the 8th eap should support the environment and climate action objectives of the european green deal , enabling a systemic change towards an ecosystem-based approach , in line with the long-term objective to "live well , within the planetary boundaries" by 2050. it should contribute to achieving the united nations’ 2030 agenda and its sustainable development goals.


### (9) the 8th eap should accelerate the transition to a regenerative economy that gives back to the planet more than it takes. a regenerative growth model recognises that the wellbeing and prosperity of our societies depend on a stable climate , a healthy environment and thriving ecosystems , which provide a safe operating space for our economies. as the global population and the demand for natural resources continues to grow , economic activity should develop in a way that does no harm but , on the contrary , reverses climate change and environmental degradation , minimises pollution and results in maintaining and enriching natural capital , therefore ensuring the abundance of renewable and non-renewable resources. through continuous innovation , adaptation to new challenges and co-creation , the regenerative economy strengthens resilience and protects present and future generations’ wellbeing. ### (9) the 8th eap should accelerate the transition to a regenerative economy that gives back to the planet more than it takes , enabling a systemic change towards an ecosystem-based approach. a regenerative growth model recognises that the wellbeing and prosperity of our societies depend on a stable climate , a healthy environment and thriving ecosystems , which provide a safe operating space for our economies. as the global population and the demand for natural resources continues to grow , the 8th eap should promote industrial ecology and sustainable economic activity based on a co-benefits approach , which should have positive impacts in addition to limit the negative impacts , it should be developed in a way that does no harm but , on the contrary , reverses climate change and environmental degradation , minimises pollution and results in maintaining and enriching natural capital , therefore ensuring the abundance of renewable and non-renewable resources. through continuous innovation , adaptation to new challenges and co-creation , the regenerative economy strengthens resilience and protects present and future generations’ wellbeing.


### (9) the 8th eap should accelerate the transition to a regenerative economy that gives back to the planet more than it takes. a regenerative growth model recognises that the wellbeing and prosperity of our societies depend on a stable climate , a healthy environment and thriving ecosystems , which provide a safe operating space for our economies. as the global population and the demand for natural resources continues to grow , economic activity should develop in a way that does no harm but , on the contrary , reverses climate change and environmental degradation , minimises pollution and results in maintaining and enriching natural capital , therefore ensuring the abundance of renewable and non-renewable resources. through continuous innovation , adaptation to new challenges and co-creation , the regenerative economy strengthens resilience and protects present and future generations’ wellbeing. ### (9) the 8th eap should accelerate the transition to a regenerative economy that gives back to the planet more than it takes , one which recognises that the wellbeing and prosperity of our societies depend on a stable climate , a healthy environment and thriving ecosystems , which provide a safe operating space for our economies within the planetary boundaries. as the global population and the demand for natural resources in linear economies continues to grow , economic activity should develop in a way that does no harm but , on the contrary , reverses climate change and environmental degradation , consistently works towards zero pollution and results in maintaining , restoring and enriching natural capital and biodiversity , ensuring the abundance and circular use of renewable and non-renewable resources. through continuous innovation , ecosystem-based solutions and adaptation to new challenges and co-creation , the regenerative and sustainable economy strengthens resilience , protects present and future generations’ wellbeing by considering their importance equal , and presents other indicators of economic success besides gdp.


### (10) the 8th eap should set out thematic priority objectives in areas of climate neutrality , adaption to climate change , protecting and restoring biodiversity , circular economy , the zero pollution ambition and reducing environmental pressures from production and consumption. it should furthermore identify the enabling conditions to achieve the long-term and the thematic priority objectives for all actors involved. ### (10) the 8th eap should set out thematic priority objectives in areas of climate neutrality , adaption to climate change , protecting and restoring biodiversity , circular economy , the zero pollution ambition and reducing environmental pressures from production and consumption. it should furthermore identify the enabling conditions to achieve the long-term and the thematic priority objectives for all actors involved. at the same time , it must ensure that thematic priority objectives and sectoral policies are integrated , in order to improve policy coherence , taking into account the specific characteristics of sectors such as transport and tourism.


### (10) the 8th eap should set out thematic priority objectives in areas of climate neutrality , adaption to climate change , protecting and restoring biodiversity , circular economy , the zero pollution ambition and reducing environmental pressures from production and consumption. it should furthermore identify the enabling conditions to achieve the long-term and the thematic priority objectives for all actors involved. ### (10) the 8th eap should set out thematic priority objectives in areas of climate neutrality , adaption to climate change , protecting and restoring biodiversity , toxic-free circular economy based on cascading use of resources , the zero pollution ambition and reducing environmental pressures from production and consumption. it should furthermore identify the actions and enabling conditions to achieve the long-term and the thematic priority objectives for all actors involved.


### (10) the 8th eap should set out thematic priority objectives in areas of climate neutrality , adaption to climate change , protecting and restoring biodiversity , circular economy , the zero pollution ambition and reducing environmental pressures from production and consumption. it should furthermore identify the enabling conditions to achieve the long-term and the thematic priority objectives for all actors involved. ### (10) the 8th eap should set out thematic priority objectives in areas of climate neutrality , adaption to climate change , protecting and restoring terrestrial and marine biodiversity , circular economy , the zero pollution ambition and reducing environmental pressures from production and consumption. it should furthermore identify the enabling conditions to achieve the long-term and the thematic priority objectives for all actors involved.


### (11) environment policy being highly decentralised , action to achieve the priority objectives of the 8th eap should be taken at different levels of governance , i.e. at the european , the national , the regional and the local level , with a collaborative approach to multi-level governance. the integrated approach to policy development and implementation should be strengthened with a view to maximising the synergies between economic , environmental and social objectives , while paying careful attention to potential trade-offs and to the needs of vulnerable groups. moreover , transparent engagement with non-governmental actors is important for ensuring the success of the 8th eap and the achievement of its priority objectives. ### (11) environment policy being highly decentralised , action to achieve the priority objectives of the 8th eap should be taken at different levels of governance , i.e. at the european , the national , the regional and the local level , with a collaborative and coherent approach to multi-level governance , respecting the competences enshrined in the tfeu. the integrated approach to policy development and implementation should be strengthened with a view to maximising the synergies between economic , environmental and social objectives , while paying careful attention to potential trade-offs and avoiding lose-lose scenarios threatening the biosphere , on which our economy depends , and paying attention to the needs of vulnerable groups. moreover , transparent engagement with and empowerment of non-governmental actors in line with the aarhus convention is important for ensuring the success of the 8th eap and the achievement of its priority objectives.


### (11) environment policy being highly decentralised , action to achieve the priority objectives of the 8th eap should be taken at different levels of governance , i.e. at the european , the national , the regional and the local level , with a collaborative approach to multi-level governance. the integrated approach to policy development and implementation should be strengthened with a view to maximising the synergies between economic , environmental and social objectives , while paying careful attention to potential trade-offs and to the needs of vulnerable groups. moreover , transparent engagement with non-governmental actors is important for ensuring the success of the 8th eap and the achievement of its priority objectives. ### (11) environment policy being highly decentralised , action to achieve the priority objectives of the 8th eap should be efficiently implemented and monitored at different levels of governance , i.e. at the european , the national , the regional and the local level , with a collaborative approach to multi-level governance. the integrated approach to policy development and implementation should be strengthened with a view to maximising the synergies between economic , environmental and social objectives , while paying careful attention to potential trade-offs and to the needs of vulnerable groups and ecosystems. moreover , access to information , public participation in decision-making , access to justice in environmental matters and transparent engagement with non-governmental actors is important for ensuring the success of the 8th eap and the achievement of its priority objectives.


### (11) environment policy being highly decentralised , action to achieve the priority objectives of the 8th eap should be taken at different levels of governance , i.e. at the european , the national , the regional and the local level , with a collaborative approach to multi-level governance. the integrated approach to policy development and implementation should be strengthened with a view to maximising the synergies between economic , environmental and social objectives , while paying careful attention to potential trade-offs and to the needs of vulnerable groups. moreover , transparent engagement with non-governmental actors is important for ensuring the success of the 8th eap and the achievement of its priority objectives. ### (11) more coherence in public policies requires better governance. environment policy being highly decentralised , action to achieve the priority objectives of the 8th eap should be taken at different levels of governance , i.e. at the european , the national , the regional and the local level , with a collaborative approach to multi-level governance. the integrated approach to policy development and implementation should be strengthened with a view to maximising the synergies between economic , environmental and social objectives , while paying careful attention to potential trade-offs and to the needs of vulnerable groups. moreover , transparent engagement between administrations , and with non-governmental actors is important for ensuring the success of the 8th eap and the achievement of its priority objectives.


### (12) enhanced cooperation with partner countries , good global environmental governance as well as synergies between internal and external union policies are key to reach the union’s environmental and climate objectives. ### (12) enhanced cooperation with partner countries , including developing countries , support to projects and policies which contribute to achieving the united nations sustainable development goals , good global environmental governance as well as synergies between internal and external union policies are key to reach the union’s environmental and climate objectives.


### (14) the assessment of progress towards the priority objectives of the 8th eap should reflect the latest developments as regards the availability and relevance of data and indicators. it should be coherent with and without prejudice to monitoring or governance tools covering more specific aspects of environment and climate policy , such as in particular regulation 1999/2018 of the european parliament and of the council30 , the environmental implementation review or monitoring tools relating to circular economy , zero pollution , biodiversity , air , water , soil , waste , or any other environment policies. together with other tools used in the european semester , the eurostat sdg monitoring and in the commission’s strategic foresight report31 , it would be part of a coherent interconnected set of monitoring and governance tools. ### (14) the assessment of progress towards the priority objectives of the 8th eap should reflect the latest developments as regards the availability and relevance of data and indicators and should aim to close the gap in data availability. at the global level , for 68% of environment related sdg indicators there is insufficient data to assess progress29a. it should be coherent with and without prejudice to monitoring or governance tools covering more specific aspects of environment and climate policy , such as in particular regulation 1999/2018 of the european parliament and of the council30 , the environmental implementation review or monitoring tools relating to circular economy , zero pollution , biodiversity , air , water , soil , waste , or any other environment policies. together with other tools used in the european semester , the eurostat sdg monitoring and in the commission’s strategic foresight report31 , it would be part of a coherent interconnected set of monitoring and governance tools.


### (15) the commission and the eea and other relevant agencies should access and re-use the data and indicators provided by the member states in accordance with applicable union legal acts. in addition , other data sources , such as satellite data and processed information from the european earth monitoring programme (copernicus) , the european forest fire information system and the european flood awareness system , or data platforms such as european marine observation and data network or the information platform for chemical monitoring should be utilised. the application of modern digital tools and artificial intelligence allows managing and analysing the data in an effective way and thereby reducing administrative burden whilst increasing timeliness and quality. ### (15) the commission and the eea and other relevant european agencies should access and re-use the data and indicators provided by the member states in accordance with applicable union legal acts. in addition , other data sources , such as satellite data and processed information from the european earth monitoring programme (copernicus) , the european forest fire information system and the european flood awareness system , or data platforms such as european marine observation and data network or the information platform for chemical monitoring should be utilised. the application of modern digital tools and artificial intelligence allows managing and analysing the data in an effective way and thereby reducing administrative burden whilst increasing timeliness and quality.


### (17) to reach the priority objectives of the 8th eap , the eea and echa should be equipped with adequate capacity and sufficient resources to ensure a sound , accessible and transparent knowledge and evidence base to support the implementation of the strategic priorities of the european green deal and the assessment of progress under the programme. ### (17) to reach the priority objectives of the 8th eap , the eea and echa should be equipped with adequate capacity and sufficient resources to ensure a sound , accessible and transparent knowledge and evidence base to support the implementation of the strategic priorities of the european green deal and the assessment of progress under the programme. the eea and echa should , where appropriate , involve other european agencies , such as the european aviation safety agency , the european maritime safety agency and the european railway agency in order to better understand the specific characteristics of the sectors and benefit from the most relevant knowledge and data.


### (18) in order to take account of evolving policy objectives and the progress made , the 8th eap should be evaluated by the commission in 2029. ### (18) in order to take account of evolving policy objectives and the progress made , the 8th eap should be evaluated by the commission in the mid-term in 2025 and when running up to the 9th eap in 2029. in particular , the mid-term evaluation will indicate sectors where phasing out of the environmentally- harmful subsidies has not be realised fully and will propose urgent action for their phasing out at the latest 2029 to finally put in place the enabling condition identified already in the 7th eap.


### 1. this decisions sets out a general action programme in the field of the environment for the period up to 31 december 2030 (‘8th eap’). it lays down its priority objectives , identifies enabling conditions for their achievement and sets a framework to measure whether the union and its member states are on track to meet those priority objectives. ### 1. this decisions sets out a general action programme in the field of the environment for the period up to 31 december 2030 (‘8th eap’). it lays down its priority objectives , identifies actions and enabling conditions for their achievement and sets a framework to measure whether the union and its member states are on track to meet those priority objectives.


### 2. the 8th eap aims at accelerating the transition to a climate-neutral , resource-efficient , clean and circular economy in a just and inclusive way , and endorses the environmental and climate objectives of the european green deal and its initiatives. ### 2. the 8th eap aims at accelerating the transition to a climate-neutral , resource-efficient , clean and circular economy in a just and inclusive way , the protection , conservation and enhancement of the eu's natural capital and endorses the european green deal and its initiatives to tackle climate and environmentally-related challenges.


### 3. the 8th eap forms the basis for achieving the environmental and climate objectives defined under the united nations 2030 agenda and its sustainable development goals and its monitoring framework constitutes the environment and climate part of the eu’s efforts to measure progress towards greater sustainability , including climate neutrality and resource efficiency , wellbeing and resilience. ### 3. the 8th eap forms the basis for achieving the environmental and climate objectives defined under the united nations 2030 agenda and its sustainable development goals and its monitoring framework constitutes the environment and climate part of the eu’s efforts to measure progress towards greater sustainability , including climate neutrality and resource efficiency , wellbeing , resilience and halt of biodiversity loss.


### 1. the 8th eap has the long-term priority objective for 2050 that citizens live well , within the planetary boundaries in a regenerative economy where nothing is wasted , no net emissions of greenhouse gases are produced and economic growth is decoupled from resource use and environmental degradation. a healthy environment underpins the well-being of citizens , biodiversity thrives and natural capital is protected , restored and valued in ways that enhance resilience to climate change and other environmental risks. the union sets the pace for ensuring the prosperity of present and future generations globally. ### 1. the 8th eap has the long-term priority objective for 2050 that citizens live well , within the planetary boundaries in a regenerative and sustainable economy where nothing is wasted , no net emissions of greenhouse gases are produced , win-win scenario of strengthened carbon sinks of grasslands , peatlands , farmlands and forests for biodiversity , climate and resilience are realized and economic growth is decoupled from resource use and environmental degradation. a healthy environment underpins the well-being of citizens , biodiversity thrives and natural capital is protected , restored and valued in ways that enhance resilience to climate change , natural disasters and other environmental risks. the union sets the pace for ensuring the equal opportunities and prosperity of present and future generations globally.


### 2. the 8th eap has the following six thematic priority objectives : ### 2. the 8th eap has the following six thematic priority objectives to be achieved by 2030 at the latest :


### irreversible and gradual reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and enhancement of removals by natural and other sinks in the union to attain the 2030 greenhouse gas emission reduction target and achieve climate neutrality by 2050 as laid down in regulation (eu) …/…32 ; ### irreversible and swift reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and enhancement of removals by natural sinks in the union to attain the 2030 greenhouse gas emission reduction target and achieve climate neutrality by 2050 as laid down in regulation (eu) …/…32 ;


### irreversible and gradual reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and enhancement of removals by natural and other sinks in the union to attain the 2030 greenhouse gas emission reduction target and achieve climate neutrality by 2050 as laid down in regulation (eu) …/…32 ; ### irreversible and gradual reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and enhancement of removals by natural and other sinks in the union to attain the 2030 greenhouse gas emission reduction target and achieve climate neutrality by 2050 as laid down in regulation (eu) …/… while respecting the principle of technological neutrality32 ;


### irreversible and gradual reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and enhancement of removals by natural and other sinks in the union to attain the 2030 greenhouse gas emission reduction target and achieve climate neutrality by 2050 as laid down in regulation (eu) …/…32 ; ### irreversible and gradual reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and enhancement of removals by natural terrestrial and marine carbon sinks and other sinks in the union to attain the 2030 greenhouse gas emission reduction target and achieve climate neutrality by 2050 as laid down in regulation (eu) …/…32 ;


### continuous progress in enhancing adaptive capacity , strengthening resilience and reducing vulnerability to climate change; ### continuous progress in enhancing and mainstreaming adaptive capacity , strengthening resilience and reducing vulnerability to climate change at all levels of society and across all sectors of the economy and the environment , while improving prevention and preparedness for natural disasters;


### continuous progress in enhancing adaptive capacity , strengthening resilience and reducing vulnerability to climate change; ### continuous progress in deployment of ecosystem based solutions , maintaining where applicable and enhancing adaptive capacity of ecosystems , strengthening resilience and reducing vulnerability to climate change;


### advancing towards a regenerative growth model that gives back to the planet more than it takes , decoupling economic growth from resource use and environmental degradation , and accelerating the transition to a circular economy; ### advancing towards a regenerative and sustainable economy that gives back to the planet more than it takes , decoupling economic growth from resource use and environmental degradation , and accelerating the transition to a toxic-free circular economy with cascading use of resources;


### protecting , preserving and restoring biodiversity and enhancing natural capital , notably air , water , soil , and forest , freshwater , wetland and marine ecosystems; ### protecting , preserving and restoring biodiversity and enhancing natural capital , notably air , water , soil , and forest , freshwater , wetland and marine ecosystems , with at least 30 % of the union’s land and marine areas protected , including at least 10 % of the union’s land and sea areas strictly protected , and in addition , the establishment of marine protected areas in the arctic and antarctic oceans in cooperation with third countries , as well as implementing the binding nature-restoration targets laid down in union legislation;


### protecting , preserving and restoring biodiversity and enhancing natural capital , notably air , water , soil , and forest , freshwater , wetland and marine ecosystems; ### protecting , preserving and restoring biodiversity and enhancing natural capital , notably air , water , soil , and forest , freshwater , wetland , coastal and marine ecosystems with at least 30 % of the union’s land and marine areas protected , including at least 10 % of the union’s land areas strictly protected , as well as implementing binding nature-restoration targets;


### protecting , preserving and restoring biodiversity and enhancing natural capital , notably air , water , soil , and forest , freshwater , wetland and marine ecosystems; ### protecting , preserving and restoring biodiversity and ecosystem services and enhancing natural capital , notably air , water , soil , and forest , freshwater , wetland marine ecosystems , including ocean degradation , eutrophication and acidification;


### promoting environmental sustainability and reducing key environmental and climate pressures related to production and consumption , in particular in the areas of energy , industrial development , buildings and infrastructure , mobility and the food system. ### promoting environmental sustainability , including energy efficiency and circular economy principles and reducing key environmental and climate pressures related to production and consumption , in particular in the areas of energy , industrial development , buildings and infrastructure , mobility and the food system , while internalising climate and environmental externalities.


### promoting environmental sustainability and reducing key environmental and climate pressures related to production and consumption , in particular in the areas of energy , industrial development , buildings and infrastructure , mobility and the food system. ### promoting environmental sustainability and reducing key environmental and climate pressures related to the eu production and consumption footprint , in particular in the areas of energy , industrial development , buildings and infrastructure , mobility , international trade , the food systems and agriculture including eu-driven global deforestation.


### promoting environmental sustainability and reducing key environmental and climate pressures related to production and consumption , in particular in the areas of energy , industrial development , buildings and infrastructure , mobility and the food system. ### promoting environmental sustainability and reducing key environmental and climate pressures related to production and consumption , in particular in the areas of energy , industrial development , buildings and infrastructure , forestry , mobility , international trade and the food system.


### enabling conditions to achieve this programme’s priority objectives ### enabling conditions and actions to achieve this programme’s priority objectives


### ensuring effective and efficient implementation of union legislation on environment and climate and striving for excellence in environmental performance at union , national , regional and local levels including through providing appropriate administrative and compliance assurance capacity , as laid out in the regular environmental implementation review , as well as stepping up action against environmental crime , ### ensuring effective and efficient implementation of union legislation on environment and climate and striving for excellence in environmental performance at union , national , regional and local levels including through encouraging the most local levels to adopt their own goals and action plans , providing appropriate administrative and compliance assurance capacity , as laid out in the regular environmental implementation review , as well as stepping up action against environmental crime ,


### ensuring effective and efficient implementation of union legislation on environment and climate and striving for excellence in environmental performance at union , national , regional and local levels including through providing appropriate administrative and compliance assurance capacity , as laid out in the regular environmental implementation review , as well as stepping up action against environmental crime , ### ensuring full , effective and efficient implementation of union legislation on environment and climate , preventing damage , including irreversible damage and loss of the eu natural heritage and striving for excellence in environmental performance at union , national , regional and local levels including through providing appropriate administrative and compliance assurance capacity , as laid out in the regular environmental implementation review , as well as stepping up action against non-compliance , environmental crime , and environmental damage in a timely and dissuasive manner ,


### – paying careful attention to synergies and potential trade-offs between economic , environmental and social objectives so as to ensure that citizens’ needs for nutrition , housing and mobility are met in a sustainable way that leaves no-one behind; ### – evaluating synergies and potential trade-offs between economic , environmental and social objectives so as to ensure that citizens’ right to high level of environmental protection is met and nobody is left behind;


### – paying careful attention to synergies and potential trade-offs between economic , environmental and social objectives so as to ensure that citizens’ needs for nutrition , housing and mobility are met in a sustainable way that leaves no-one behind; ### – paying careful attention to synergies and potential trade-offs between economic , environmental and social objectives so as to ensure that citizens’ needs for nutrition , energy , water , food security , housing and mobility are met in a sustainable way that leaves no-one behind;


### – regularly evaluating existing policies and preparing impact assessments for new initiatives , which are based on wide consultations following procedures that are accountable , inclusive , informed and simple to implement , and which pay due regard to projected impacts on environment and climate; ### – regularly evaluating coherence of the existing policies with the 8th eap and the green deal objectives and preparing impact assessments duly considering the cost of inaction for new initiatives , which are based on wide consultations following procedures that are accountable , equitable , inclusive , informed , and which pay due regard to projected impacts on environment and climate and due respect of the do no significant harm principle;


### – regularly evaluating existing policies and preparing impact assessments for new initiatives , which are based on wide consultations following procedures that are accountable , inclusive , informed and simple to implement , and which pay due regard to projected impacts on environment and climate; ### – regularly evaluating existing policies and preparing impact assessments for new initiatives , which are based on wide consultations following procedures that are accountable , inclusive , informed and simple to implement , and which pay due regard to projected immediate and long-term impacts on environment , biodiversity and climate and that take into account the costs of action and non-action in terms of immediate and long-term impacts;


### effectively integrating environmental and climate sustainability in the european semester of economic governance , including in the national reform programmes and national recovery and resilience plans; ### effectively extending , without weakening , the european semester process by integrating the union's climate and environmental objectives , notably biodiversity objectives , as well as including them in the national reform programmes and national recovery and resilience plans , in order to provide member states with analysis and indicators on top of the existing economic indicators , thus better reflecting the current challenges our union faces in reducing its ecological footprint and making the process a driver of change towards sustainable wellbeing for all in europe;


### mobilising sustainable investments from public and private sources , including of funds and instruments available under the union budget , via the european investment bank and at national level; ### mobilising sustainable investments , also for biodiversity protection and conservation , from public and private sources , including of funds and instruments available under the union budget , via the european investment bank and at national level given their potential to create jobs , sustainable growth and to ensure eus long-term competitiveness and increase the resilience of our economies and societies;


### mobilising sustainable investments from public and private sources , including of funds and instruments available under the union budget , via the european investment bank and at national level; ### mobilising sustainable investments from public and private sources , including of funds and instruments available under the union budget , via the european investment bank and at national level in line with regulation (eu) 2020/852 on the establishment of a framework to facilitate sustainable investment and the "do no significant harm" referred to in the taxonomy regulation.


### phasing out environmentally harmful subsidies at union and national level , making the best use of market-based instruments and green budgeting tools , including those required to ensure a socially fair transition , and supporting businesses and other stakeholders in developing standardised natural capital accounting practices; ### phasing out environmentally harmful subsidies at union level , making the best use of market-based instruments and green budgeting tools , including those required to ensure a socially fair transition , and supporting businesses and other stakeholders in developing standardised natural capital accounting practices;


### ensuring that environmental policies and action are based on the best available scientific knowledge and strengthening the environmental knowledge base and its uptake , including by research , innovation , fostering green skills , and further building up environmental and ecosystem accounting; ### ensuring that environmental policies and action are based on the best available scientific knowledge and technologies and strengthening the environmental knowledge base and its uptake , including by research , innovation , fostering green skills , and further building up environmental and ecosystem accounting , as well as fostering the continuous improvement of scientific knowledge on the basis of indicators comparable at regional level as well , in order to inform decision-making;


### harnessing the potential of digital and data technologies to support environment policy while minimising their environmental footprint; ### harnessing the potential of digital and data technologies to support environment policy while minimising their environmental footprint , mainly through the optimisations made possible by information-processing technologies;


### harnessing the potential of digital and data technologies to support environment policy while minimising their environmental footprint; ### harnessing the potential of digital and data technologies , including by delivering real-time data and information on the state of ecosystems to support policy while minimising their environmental footprint;


### making full use of nature based solutions and social innovation; ### making full use of biodiversity-inclusive nature based solutions to maximize ecosystem's connectivity , restoration , benefits , building on synergies between biodiversity conservation and climate change mitigation and adaptation and social innovation;


### making full use of nature based solutions and social innovation; ### making full use of ecosystem based solutions and social innovation;


### making the data and evidence linked to the implementation of the 8th eap publicly available and easily accessible , without prejudice to provisions on confidentiality in domain specific legislation; ### making the data and evidence linked to the implementation of the 8th eap publicly available , enhancing cooperation between administrations and allowing citizens to easily access information and identify the relevant competences and responsibilities at all governance levels , without prejudice to provisions on confidentiality in domain specific legislation , with a view to spreading ownership of the 8th eap;


### 1. the commission , supported by the european environment agency and the european chemicals agency , shall assess and report on the progress of the union and the member states with regard to achieving the priority objectives laid down in article 2 on a regular basis , taking into consideration the enabling conditions laid down in article 3. ### 1. the commission , supported by the european environment agency and the european chemicals agency , shall monitor , assess and report on the progress of the union and the member states with regard to achieving the priority objectives laid down in article 2 on a regular basis , taking into consideration the enabling conditions laid down in article 3.


### 1. the commission , supported by the european environment agency and the european chemicals agency , shall assess and report on the progress of the union and the member states with regard to achieving the priority objectives laid down in article 2 on a regular basis , taking into consideration the enabling conditions laid down in article 3. ### 1. the commission , supported by the european environment agency and the european chemicals agency , shall assess and report on the progress of the union and the member states with regard to achieving the priority objectives laid down in article 2 on an annual basis , taking into consideration the enabling conditions laid down in article 3.


### 3. the european environment agency and the european chemicals agency shall support the commission in improving the availability and relevance of data and knowledge , in particular by carrying out the following: ### 3. the european environment agency and the european chemicals agency , as well as other european agencies where appropriate , shall support the commission in improving the availability and relevance of data and knowledge , in particular by carrying out the following:


### 3. the european environment agency and the european chemicals agency shall support the commission in improving the availability and relevance of data and knowledge , in particular by carrying out the following: ### 3. the european environment agency and the european chemicals agency , and projects and schemes financed under the eu environmental , research and agricultural funding shall support the commission in improving the availability and relevance of data and knowledge , in particular by carrying out the following:


### integrating data on environmental , social and economic impacts , and exploiting fully other available data , such as those delivered by copernicus; ### integrating data on environmental , social and economic impacts through improved modelling to enable better integration of mitigation and adaptation measures in all sectors , and exploiting fully other available data , such as those delivered by copernicus;


### ensuring transparency and accountability; ### ensuring transparency , accessibility and accountability;


### a. whereas the platform economy has become an integral and rapidly growing part of the european transport sector; ### a. whereas the platform economy has become an integral and rapidly growing part of the european transport and tourism sectors , providing for new business models , talent and work opportunities;


### b. whereas precarious self-employment in the platform sector is increasing , particularly for low-skilled platform-determined on-location work1 , including driving and delivery; ### b. whereas self-employment in the platform sector is increasing , particularly in the context of the covid-19 pandemic , creating opportunities for new business models , leading to increased driving and delivery services; in this regards , underlines the benefits and the advantages of the platform economy especially in times of crisis , creating job opportunities and increasing the growth rate of this kind of business models;


### 1. stresses that the unfair competitive advantages of the platform economy over the traditional economy , based on social dumping and tax avoidance and evasion , are unacceptable; ### 1. expresses concerns about the potential cases of competitive advantages of certain operators of the platform economy over the traditional economy , therefore , stresses the need to foster a level playing field between online platforms and traditional business models , operating in the transport and tourism sectors;


### 2. calls on the commission to come up with a strategy to align the working conditions of platform workers with those of regular employees , with full respect for the diversity of national labour market models and the autonomy of social partners; ### 2. calls on the commission to come up with a strategy to align the working conditions of platform workers with those of regular employees while maintaining their autonomy and flexibility and providing legal certainty , with full respect for the diversity of national labour market models , the autonomy of social partners , and the opportunities provided by the collaborative mobility services and platforms;


### 3. calls on the member states to consider the need for national definitions of self-employed workers , with a rebuttable legal presumption that places the burden of proof on platforms to prove that their workers are not in fact employees; ### deleted


### 3. calls on the member states to consider the need for national definitions of self-employed workers , with a rebuttable legal presumption that places the burden of proof on platforms to prove that their workers are not in fact employees; ### 3. calls on the commission and member states to consider the need for a clear definition and harmonised understanding of platform economy and platform work; in this regards , a level playing field among platforms should be ensured , allowing for the development of new and innovative business models;


### 4. calls on the commission to support member states in finding policy solutions to determine the status of work for platform workers; remains sceptical of the addition of a third category; ### 4. calls on the commission to support member states in finding policy solutions to determine the status of work for platform workers as well as to provide funding and incentives for digital careers; in this regard , calls on the commission and the member states to reconsider education in the digital age , focusing policies and incentives in view of preparing for future jobs and adapting to the changing labour market;


### 5. emphasises the need for transparency and non-discrimination in transport and tourism platforms , specifically regarding algorithms that affect service , allocation of tasks , pricing , and advertising; ### 5. emphasises the need for transparency and non-discrimination in transport and tourism platforms , specifically regarding algorithms that affect service , allocation of tasks , pricing , advertising and digital trust building mechanisms such as ratings and reviews;


### 6. emphasises the importance to workers of portability of data between platforms; ### 6. emphasises the importance of portability of data between platforms , in line with regulation (eu) 2016/679;


### 7. welcomes the commission’s intention to modify eu competition rules to ensure that platform workers and the bogus self-employed gain access to collective bargaining; ### 7. welcomes the commission’s intention to modify eu competition rules to ensure that platform workers and the self-employed gain access to collective bargaining; stresses the importance of developing a social dialogue in which platform workers of all kinds are properly represented;


### 7. welcomes the commission’s intention to modify eu competition rules to ensure that platform workers and the bogus self-employed gain access to collective bargaining; ### 7. calls on the commission to consider a possible revision of eu competition rules , following an extensive consultation and cooperation with social and business partners in order to ensure that platform workers and the self-employed gain access to enhance social dialogue;


### 8. encourages platform companies to develop training pathways in order to broaden their workers’ professional options. ### 8. encourages member states to speed up training for young entrepreneurs in the skills required by the new business models used by platforms so as to help them generate added value from the digital sphere; encourages platform companies also to develop training pathways in order to broaden their workers’ professional options.


### 8. encourages platform companies to develop training pathways in order to broaden their workers’ professional options. ### 8. calls on the commission and the member states to support and encourage platform companies to develop training pathways in order to broaden their workers’ professional options.


### e. whereas according to the european working conditions telephone survey carried out by eurofound , the target of 60 % in training courses (paid for by the employer) was not reached in any member state in 2021; whereas the data also shows that those most in need of training (young people , those with lower levels of educational attainment and those in low-skilled occupations) benefited the least; ### e. whereas according to eurofound , the target of 60 % in training courses (paid for by the employer) was not reached in any member state in 2021; whereas the data also shows that those most in need of training (young people , those with lower levels of educational attainment and those in low-skilled occupations) benefited the least;


### 1. reiterates the importance of the conclusions of the 2021 porto social summit , which underline that we are still living in unprecedented times; notes that covid-19 and the russian war of aggression against ukraine on our doorstep resulted in the cost of living and energy crises , which are hitting the most vulnerable groups in our society the hardest , leading to increasing inequalities; reiterates the importance of the epsr as a guiding compass to a more social europe; stresses , however , that the resulting headline targets for 2030 set out by the commission and endorsed by the council on employment , skills and poverty are insufficient to ensure its full implementation; stresses that the epsr is a powerful tool to ensure that the european project can act as a powerful shield protecting the health , safety and living conditions of its people; ### 1. reiterates the importance of the conclusions of the 2021 porto social summit; recalls as well the relevance of the porto social commitment which states that all necessary resources ought to be mobilised to strengthen the competitiveness of the european economy , based on sustainable and inclusive growth , decent work and social justice; reiterates the importance of the epsr as a guiding compass to a more social europe; stresses that implementing the principles and action plan of the epsr are necessary steps to achieve the headline targets for 2030 set out by the commission and endorsed by the council on employment , skills and poverty; highlights that the epsr is a powerful tool to ensure that the european project can act as a powerful shield protecting the health , safety and living conditions of its people and can move towards increased social convergence;


### 2. calls on the commission and the council to take measures to mitigate the impact of the crises on member state labour markets in order to keep employment rates high; calls therefore on the commission , the member states and eu social partners to commit to reaching collective bargaining coverage of at least 80 % by 2030 , with a view to improving living and working conditions in the eu , which will contribute to upward social convergence and reduce in-work poverty , social exclusion and wage inequality; ### 2. calls on the commission and the council to take measures to mitigate the impact of the cost of living crisis on member state labour markets in order to keep employment rates high; calls therefore on the commission , the member states and eu social partners to commit to reaching collective bargaining coverage of at least 80 % by 2030 , with a view to improving living and working conditions in the eu and boosting the uptake of upskilling and reskilling programmes , which will contribute to well-being at work , increased labour force’s competitiveness , upward social convergence , reducing in-work poverty , social exclusion and wage inequality and limiting the problem of brain drain affecting many regions across the eu;


### 3. welcomes the above-mentioned conclusions of the 2021 porto social summit; welcomes the adoption of the directive on adequate minimum wages in the eu3 and the soon-to-be adopted directive on pay transparency4 ; urges the council to agree on a general approach concerning the directive for platform work5 in order to improve worker protection in the platform economy and to create fair competition; welcomes the commission’s commitment to occupational health and safety in the workplace; welcomes the commission’s commitment to follow up with a legislative proposal after the adoption of parliament’s resolution of 2 february 20236 ; welcomes the launch of a two-stage consultation of eu social partners; ### 3. welcomes the adoption of the directive on adequate minimum wages in the eu3 and the soon-to-be adopted directive on pay transparency4 ; urges the council to agree on a general approach concerning the directive for platform work5 in order to improve worker's working conditions in the platform economy and to create fair competition; welcomes the commission’s commitment to occupational health and safety in the workplace; welcomes the commission’s announcement to follow up with a legislative proposal after the adoption of parliament’s resolution of 2 february 20236 in case social partners do not come up with an agreement; welcomes the launch of a two-stage consultation of eu social partners;


### 5. calls on the commission to put forward a legal framework for an effective and enforceable ban on unpaid internships , traineeships and apprenticeships; welcomes the european year of skills and highlights the importance of access to training and reskilling for workers in industries and sectors that need to undergo fundamental changes in order to achieve the green and digital transitions , ensuring no one is left behind; calls on the commission to consider a directive on adequate minimum income in order to ensure the reintegration of people absent from the labour market , while respecting the principle of subsidiarity , the specificities of national social protection systems and the competences of the member states; welcomes the commission’s commitment to presenting a proposal , by the end of 2023 , on the creation of an eu disability card to be recognised in all member states; welcomes the ongoing negotiations of the social partners on the right to disconnect , with a view to putting forward a legally binding agreement implemented via a directive; calls on the commission to put forward a legislative proposal for a european social security pass to provide national authorities , such as labour and social security inspectorates , and social partners involved in labour and social security inspections with a real-time instrument to effectively enforce national and eu law; ### 5. calls on the commission to put forward a legal framework to ensure that internships , traineeships and apprenticeships are adequately paid and based on quality criteria , especially in terms of learning content and experience ; welcomes the european year of skills and underlines the opportunity it offers to better disseminate the initiatives of the european skills agenda , develop additional skills partnership in core industrial ecosystems and learn from best practices on how to anticipate and respond to new skills demands; calls on the commission , in the context of the european year of skills , to establish a mapping of the sectors and workers facing a lack of training opportunities; highlights the importance of access to training and reskilling for workers in industries and sectors that need to undergo fundamental changes in order to achieve the green and digital transitions , ensuring no one is left behind; recalls the essential role that social partners need to play in promoting the uptake of reskilling and upskilling programmes and prioritising such aspects in collective agreements; calls on the commission to integrate the initiatives of the european year of skills into already existing instruments such as the reinforced youth guarantee , the gender equality strategy and the strategy for the rights of persons with disabilities so that people who need it most , including young people , women and people with disabilities , can effectively access the initiatives of the european year of skills;


### 7. recalls that principle 11 on childcare and support to children requires further action; urgently reminds the commission and the member states about parliament’s repeated call to urgently allocate more funding to the european child guarantee , with a dedicated budget of at least eur 20 billion; ### 7. recalls that principle 11 on childcare and support to children requires further action to break the generational cycle of poverty and boost social mobility; believes that all children under the age of 3 should have access to affordable , quality , full-day early childhood education and care services to foster early childhood development; welcomes the high-level group on the future of social protection and of the welfare state in the eu’s recommendation for member states to provide capacitating services for vulnerable families with children to prevent child poverty6a; urgently reminds the commission and the member states of their commitment to reduce child poverty by at least 5 million compared to 2019 and of parliament’s repeated call to urgently allocate more funding to the european child guarantee , with a dedicated budget of at least eur 20 billion; calls on all member states to ensure that their national action plans are effectively implemented and respond to the key principles of the council recommendation 2021/1004 establishing a european child guarantee;


### 8. warns that , for the correct implementation of principle 12 , adequate social protection needs to be expanded in order to cover the risks associated with the unequal impact of climate change and environmental degradation on different income groups , as well as the social consequences of the transformation of our societies towards climate neutrality; calls on the commission and the member states to build upon the social climate fund and lay the foundations for the development of green social protection schemes at national level with eu support; ### 8. warns that , for the correct implementation of principle 12 , adequate social protection needs to take account of the risks associated with the unequal impact of climate change and environmental degradation on different income groups , as well as the social consequences of the transformation of our societies towards climate neutrality; calls on the commission and member states to propose an european action plan for social protection that will take into account the risks of social exclusion due to climate change and environmental decline and that will contain concrete proposals for mitigating the green wave and social and labour transformation ensuing from it , leaving no-one behind and protecting those who are more vulnerable from these changes or who live in regions that are most at risk; calls on the member states to build upon the social climate fund and lay the foundations for the development of green social protection schemes at national level with eu support;


### 9. highlights that , according to principle 19 , access to social housing or housing assistance of good quality should be provided for those in need; urges the commission to develop an ambitious action plan to achieve accessible and green social housing to meet the housing needs of all eu citizens and to progressively eradicate homelessness by 2030; ### 9. highlights that , according to principle 19 , access to social housing or housing assistance of good quality should be provided for those in need; urges the commission to develop an ambitious action plan to achieve accessible and green social housing to meet the housing needs of all eu citizens , to put an end to energy poverty and to progressively eradicate homelessness by 2030; reiterates its call to adopt a housing first principle to foster access to housing , and notes that said housing should be based on ‘universal design’ principles to ensure accessibility;


### 10. expresses its concern about the lack of access to essential services (principle 20) , which have come under additional stress; urges the commission to present a revision of the services of general and economic interest; ### 10. expresses its concern about the lack of access to essential services (principle 20) , which have come under additional stress; national , regional and local authorities to better tap into the potential of the specific provisions for services of general economic interest in the eu state aid regulation; calls on the commission to assess if stronger social provision in such regulation is necessary to improve the access to essential services;


### 11. reiterates its call that , in the light of the framework of the green deal industrial plan , eu funding , including state aid , should be conditional on public policy objectives , in particular social requirements , in order to offer high-quality jobs , promote collective bargaining , respect eu labour rights and standards and ensure improved working conditions; calls on the commission and the member states to enforce the social clause in the existing directive on public procurement7 and to revise the directive in order to further strengthen social clauses in public contracts to require economic operators and subcontractors to fully respect the right of workers to collective bargaining , to account for the recently adopted directive on adequate minimum wages in the eu; ### 11. reiterates its call that , in the light of the framework of the green deal industrial plan , eu funding , including state aid , should be conditional on public policy objectives , in particular social requirements , in order to offer high-quality jobs , promote collective bargaining , respect eu labour rights and standards and ensure improved working conditions; calls on the commission and the member states to enforce the social clause in the existing directive on public procurement7 and to possibly consider a revision of the directive , based on a comprehensive analysis on which social rights are not respected , in order to further strengthen social clauses in public contracts to require economic operators and subcontractors to fully respect the right of workers , including the right to collective bargaining , to account for the recently adopted directive on adequate minimum wages in the eu;


### 13. believes that , in order to make a fair and social europe a reality and to ensure the highest levels of social protection in the green and digital transitions , it is necessary to ensure a sustainable , fair and inclusive europe where social rights are fully protected and safeguarded to at least the same level as economic and environmental standards; stresses the need to take steps to reinforce the role of the epsr to ensure the equal treatment of the economic , environmental and social standards and to ensure that social standards and social rights in europe are placed at the centre of the eu’s forthcoming political practices; notes that , consequently , social investment will be needed for the implementation of the epsr in upcoming funding initiatives and the revision of the multiannual financial framework; ### 13. believes that , in order to make a fair and social europe a reality and to ensure the highest levels of social protection in the green and digital transitions , it is necessary to ensure a sustainable , fair and inclusive europe where social rights are fully protected and safeguarded; stresses the need to take steps to reinforce the role of the epsr to ensure that social aspects are put on an equal footing with economic and environmental ones and to ensure that social rights in europe are placed at the centre of the eu’s forthcoming policies and that social convergence is one of the eu’s top political priorities; notes that , consequently , social investment , including investment in human capital , will be needed for the implementation of the epsr in upcoming funding initiatives and the revision of the multiannual financial framework;


### 15. calls on the commission to present a governance framework to anticipate and manage changes related to the green and digital transitions in the world of work , focusing first on the importance of safeguarding jobs , including access to adequate training , and second , on the involvement of social partners in decision-making processes; ### 15. calls on the commission to present a governance framework to anticipate and manage changes related to the green and digital transitions in the world of work , focusing first on the importance of accompanying workers through labour market transformations , especially in the event of job losses , including access to adequate training , and second , on the involvement of social partners in decision-making processes; reiterates its call on the commission to propose a directive to regulate teleworking conditions across the eu and ensure decent working and employment conditions ;


### (4) this directive should apply to criminal conduct which amounts to violence against women or domestic violence , as criminalised under union or national law. this includes the criminal offences defined in this directive , namely rape , female genital mutilation , the non-consensual sharing of intimate or manipulated material , cyber stalking , cyber harassment , cyber incitement to violence or hatred and criminal conduct covered by other union instruments , in particular directives 2011/36/eu36 and 2011/93/eu37 of the european parliament and of the council , which define criminal offences concerning the sexual exploitation of children and trafficking of human beings for the purpose of sexual exploitation. lastly , certain criminal offences under national law fall under the definition of violence against women. this includes crimes such as femicide , sexual harassment , sexual abuse , stalking , early and forced marriage , forced abortion , forced sterilisation and different forms of cyber violence , such as online sexual harassment , cyber bullying or the unsolicited receipt of sexually explicit material. domestic violence is a form of violence which may be specifically criminalised under national law or covered by criminal offences which are committed within the family or domestic unit or between former or current spouses. ### (4) this directive should apply to criminal conduct which amounts to violence against women or domestic violence , as criminalised under union or national law. this includes the criminal offences defined in this directive , namely rape , female genital mutilation , forced sterilisation , the non-consensual sharing of intimate or manipulated material , cyber stalking , cyber harassment , cyber incitement to violence or hatred and criminal conduct covered by other union instruments , in particular directives 2011/36/eu36 and 2011/93/eu37 of the european parliament and of the council , which define criminal offences concerning the sexual exploitation of children and trafficking of human beings for the purpose of sexual exploitation. lastly , certain criminal offences under national law fall under the definition of violence against women. this includes crimes such as femicide , sexual harassment , sexual abuse , stalking , early and forced marriage , forced abortion and different forms of cyber violence , such as online sexual harassment , cyber bullying or the unsolicited receipt of sexually explicit material. domestic violence is a form of violence which may be specifically criminalised under national law or covered by criminal offences which are committed within the family or domestic unit or between former or current spouses.


### (7) violence against women is a persisting manifestation of structural discrimination against women , resulting from historically unequal power relations between women and men. it is a form of gender-based violence , which is inflicted primarily on women and girls , by men. it is rooted in the socially constructed roles , behaviours , activities and attributes that a given society considers appropriate for women and men , generally referred to under the term ‘gender’. ### (7) violence against women is a persisting manifestation of structural discrimination against women , resulting from misogyny and historically unequal power relations between women and men. it is a form of gender-based violence , which is inflicted primarily on women and girls , by men. it is rooted in the socially constructed roles , behaviours , activities and attributes that a given society considers appropriate for women and men , generally referred to under the term ‘gender’.


### (7) violence against women is a persisting manifestation of structural discrimination against women , resulting from historically unequal power relations between women and men. it is a form of gender-based violence , which is inflicted primarily on women and girls , by men. it is rooted in the socially constructed roles , behaviours , activities and attributes that a given society considers appropriate for women and men , generally referred to under the term ‘gender’. ### (7) violence against women is a persisting manifestation of structural discrimination against women in all their diversity , resulting from historically unequal power relations between women and men. it is a form of gender-based violence , which is inflicted primarily on women and girls , by men. it is rooted in the socially constructed roles , behaviours , activities and attributes that a given society considers appropriate for women and men , generally referred to under the term ‘gender’.


### (8) domestic violence is a serious social problem which often remains hidden. it can lead to serious psychological and physical trauma with severe consequences because the offender typically is a person known to the victims , whom they would expect to be able to trust. such violence can take on various forms , including physical , sexual , psychological and economic. domestic violence may occur whether or not the offender shares or has shared a household with the victim. ### (8) domestic violence is a grave social problem which often remains hidden as a result of societal stigmatisation of the subject. it can lead to serious psychological and physical trauma with severe consequences for a victim's personal and professional life because the offender typically is a person known to the victims , whom they would expect to be able to trust. such violence can take on various forms , including physical , sexual , psychological and economic. domestic violence may occur whether or not the offender shares or has shared a household with the victim.


### (8) domestic violence is a serious social problem which often remains hidden. it can lead to serious psychological and physical trauma with severe consequences because the offender typically is a person known to the victims , whom they would expect to be able to trust. such violence can take on various forms , including physical , sexual , psychological and economic. domestic violence may occur whether or not the offender shares or has shared a household with the victim. ### (8) domestic violence is a serious social problem which often remains hidden. it can lead to serious psychological and physical trauma with severe consequences because the offender typically is a person known to the victims , whom they would expect to be able to trust. such violence can take on various forms , including physical , sexual , psychological and economic. moreover , studies have shown that such violence follows a specific escalatory pattern , which can culminate in the killing of the women. recognising these steps and reacting at an early stage will prevent more serious violence and murders. domestic violence may occur whether or not the offender shares or has shared a household with the victim.


### (9) in light of the specificities related to these types of crime it is necessary to lay down a comprehensive set of rules , which addresses the persisting problem of violence against women and domestic violence in a targeted manner and caters to the specific needs of victims of such violence. the existing provisions at union and national levels have proven to be insufficient to effectively combat and prevent violence against women and domestic violence. in particular , directives 2011/36/eu and 2011/93/eu concentrate on specific forms of such violence , while directive 2012/29/eu of the european parliament and of the council38 lays down the general framework for victims of crime. while providing some safeguards for victims of violence against women and domestic violence , it is not set out to address their specific needs. ### (9) in light of the specificities related to these types of crime it is necessary to lay down a comprehensive set of rules , which addresses the persisting problem of violence against women and domestic violence in a targeted manner and caters to the specific needs of victims of such violence in an intersectional and gender-sensitive manner. the existing provisions at union and national levels have proven to be insufficient to effectively combat and prevent violence against women and domestic violence. in particular , directives 2011/36/eu and 2011/93/eu concentrate on specific forms of such violence , while directive 2012/29/eu of the european parliament and of the council38 lays down the general framework for victims of crime. while providing some safeguards for victims of violence against women and domestic violence , it is not set out to address their specific needs.


### (10) this directive supports the international commitments the member states have undertaken to combat and prevent violence against women and domestic violence , in particular the united nations convention on the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women (cedaw)39 and , where relevant , the council of europe convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence (‘istanbul convention’)40 and the international labour organization’s convention concerning the elimination of violence and harassment in the world of work , signed on 21 june 2019 in geneva. ### (10) this directive supports the international commitments the member states have undertaken to combat and prevent violence against women and domestic violence , in particular the united nations convention on the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women (cedaw)39 , the united nations convention on the rights of persons with disabilities (crpd) and the council of europe convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence (‘istanbul convention’)40 and the international labour organization’s violence and harassment convention , 2019 (no. 190) , the international labour organization’s discrimination (employment and occupation) convention , 1958 (no 111) and the international labour organization’s domestic workers convention , 2012 (no 189).


### (11) violence against women and domestic violence can be exacerbated where it intersects with discrimination based on sex and other grounds of discrimination prohibited by union law , namely nationality , race , colour , ethnic or social origin , genetic features , language , religion or belief , political or any other opinion , membership of a national minority , property , birth , disability , age or sexual orientation. member states should therefore pay due regard to victims affected by such intersectional discrimination , through providing specific measures where intersecting forms of discrimination are present. in particular , lesbian , bisexual , trans , non-binary , intersex and queer (lbtiq) women , women with disabilities and women with a minority racial or ethnic background are at a heightened risk of experiencing gender-based violence. ### (11) violence against women and domestic violence can be exacerbated where it intersects with discrimination based on sex or gender and other grounds of discrimination prohibited by union law , namely nationality , race , colour , ethnic or social origin , genetic features , language , religion or belief , political or any other opinion , membership of a national minority , property , birth , disability , age , sexual orientation , gender identity and expression and sex characteristics. member states should therefore pay due regard to victims affected by such intersectional discrimination , through providing specific measures where intersecting forms of discrimination are present. in particular , lesbian , bisexual , trans , non-binary , intersex and queer (lbtiq) women , women with disabilities and women with a minority racial or ethnic background are at a heightened risk of experiencing gender-based violence.


### (11) violence against women and domestic violence can be exacerbated where it intersects with discrimination based on sex and other grounds of discrimination prohibited by union law , namely nationality , race , colour , ethnic or social origin , genetic features , language , religion or belief , political or any other opinion , membership of a national minority , property , birth , disability , age or sexual orientation. member states should therefore pay due regard to victims affected by such intersectional discrimination , through providing specific measures where intersecting forms of discrimination are present. in particular , lesbian , bisexual , trans , non-binary , intersex and queer (lbtiq) women , women with disabilities and women with a minority racial or ethnic background are at a heightened risk of experiencing gender-based violence. ### (11) violence against women and domestic violence can be exacerbated where it intersects with discrimination based on gender and other grounds of discrimination prohibited by union law , namely nationality , race , colour , ethnic or social origin , genetic features , language , religion or belief , political or any other opinion , membership of a national minority , property , birth , disability , age or sexual orientation. member states should therefore pay due regard to victims affected by such intersectional discrimination , through providing specific measures where intersecting forms of discrimination are present. in particular , lesbian , bisexual , trans , non-binary , intersex and queer (lbtiq) women , women with disabilities and women with a minority racial or ethnic background are at a heightened risk of experiencing gender-based violence.


### (11) violence against women and domestic violence can be exacerbated where it intersects with discrimination based on sex and other grounds of discrimination prohibited by union law , namely nationality , race , colour , ethnic or social origin , genetic features , language , religion or belief , political or any other opinion , membership of a national minority , property , birth , disability , age or sexual orientation. member states should therefore pay due regard to victims affected by such intersectional discrimination , through providing specific measures where intersecting forms of discrimination are present. in particular , lesbian , bisexual , trans , non-binary , intersex and queer (lbtiq) women , women with disabilities and women with a minority racial or ethnic background are at a heightened risk of experiencing gender-based violence. ### (11) violence against women and domestic violence can be exacerbated where it intersects with discrimination based on sex and other grounds of discrimination prohibited by union law , namely nationality , race , colour , ethnic or social origin , genetic features , language , religion or belief , political or any other opinion , membership of a national minority , property , birth , disability , age or sexual orientation and gender identity , gender expression and sex characteristics. member states should therefore pay due regard to victims affected by such intersectional discrimination and violence , through providing specific measures where intersecting forms of discrimination are present. in particular , lesbian , bisexual , trans , non-binary , intersex and queer (lbtiq) women , women with disabilities and women with a minority racial or ethnic background are at a heightened risk of experiencing gender-based violence and domestic violence.


### (12) victims of violence against women and domestic violence are at an increased risk of intimidation , retaliation , secondary and repeat victimisation. particular attention should thus be paid to these risks and to the need to protect the dignity and physical integrity of such victims. ### (12) victims of violence against women and domestic violence are at an increased risk of intimidation , retaliation , secondary and repeat victimisation. particular attention should thus be paid to these risks and to the need to protect the dignity and physical integrity of such victims. encounters with specialised support services should ensure victims are treated in a humane way and avoid re-traumatisation.


### (13) rape is one of the most serious offences breaching a person’s sexual integrity and is a crime that disproportionately affects women. it entails a power imbalance between the offender and the victim , which allows the offender to sexually exploit the victim for purposes such as personal gratification , asserting domination , gaining social recognition , advancement or possibly financial gain. many member states still require the use of force , threats or coercion for the crime of rape. other member states solely rely on the condition that the victim has not consented to the sexual act. only the latter approach achieves the full protection of the sexual integrity of victims. therefore , it is necessary to ensure equal protection throughout the union by providing the constitutive elements of the crime of rape of women. . ### (13) rape is one of the most serious offences breaching a person’s sexual integrity and is a crime that disproportionately affects women and girls. it entails a power imbalance between the offender and the victim , which allows the offender to sexually exploit the victim for purposes such as personal gratification , asserting domination , gaining social recognition , advancement or possibly financial gain. many member states still require the use of force , threats or coercion for the crime of rape. other member states solely rely on the condition that the victim has not consented to the sexual act. only the latter approach achieves the full protection of the sexual integrity of victims. therefore , it is necessary to ensure equal protection throughout the union by providing the constitutive elements of the crime of rape of women and girls.


### (13) rape is one of the most serious offences breaching a person’s sexual integrity and is a crime that disproportionately affects women. it entails a power imbalance between the offender and the victim , which allows the offender to sexually exploit the victim for purposes such as personal gratification , asserting domination , gaining social recognition , advancement or possibly financial gain. many member states still require the use of force , threats or coercion for the crime of rape. other member states solely rely on the condition that the victim has not consented to the sexual act. only the latter approach achieves the full protection of the sexual integrity of victims. therefore , it is necessary to ensure equal protection throughout the union by providing the constitutive elements of the crime of rape of women. . ### (13) rape is one of the most serious offences breaching a person’s sexual integrity and is a crime that disproportionately affects women. it entails a power imbalance between the offender and the victim , which allows the offender to sexually exploit the victim for purposes such as personal gratification , asserting domination , gaining social recognition , advancement or possibly financial gain or punishing the victims for their sexual orientation or gender identity (so-called "corrective rapes"). many member states still require the use of force , threats or coercion for the crime of rape. other member states solely rely on the condition that the victim has not consented to the sexual act. only the latter approach achieves the full protection of the sexual integrity of victims. therefore , it is necessary to ensure equal protection throughout the union by providing the constitutive elements of the crime of rape of women. .


### (17) it is necessary to provide for harmonised definitions of offences and penalties regarding certain forms of cyber violence. cyber violence particularly targets and impacts women politicians , journalists and human rights defenders. it can have the effect of silencing women and hindering their societal participation on an equal footing with men. cyber violence also disproportionately affects women and girls in educational settings , such as schools and universities , with detrimental consequences to their further education and to their mental health , which may , in extreme cases , lead to suicide. ### (17) it is necessary to provide for harmonised definitions of offences and penalties regarding certain forms of cyber violence. cyber violence particularly targets and impacts women in public life , particularly women politicians , journalists and human rights defenders. it can have the effect of silencing women and hindering their societal and professional participation on an equal footing with men. cyber violence also disproportionately affects women and girls in educational settings , such as schools and universities , with detrimental consequences to their further education and to their mental health , which may , in extreme cases , lead to suicide.


### (19) especially due to its tendency for easy , swift and broad distribution and perpetration , as well as its intimate nature , the non-consensual making accessible of intimate images or videos and material that depict sexual activities , to a multitude of end-users , by means of information and communication technologies , can be very harmful for the victims. the offence provided for in this directive should cover all types of such material , such as images , photographs and videos , including sexualized images , audio clips and video clips. it should relate to situations where the making accessible of the material to a multitude of end-users , through information and communication technologies , occurs without the victim’s consent , irrespective of whether the victim consented to the generation of such material or may have transmitted it to a particular person. the offence should also include the non-consensual production or manipulation , for instance by image editing , of material that makes it appear as though another person is engaged in sexual activities , insofar as the material is subsequently made accessible to a multitude of end-users , through information and communication technologies , without the consent of that person. such production or manipulation should include the fabrication of ‘deepfakes’ , where the material appreciably resembles an existing person , objects , places or other entities or events , depicting sexual activities of another person , and would falsely appear to others to be authentic or truthful. in the interest of effectively protecting victims of such conduct , threatening to engage in such conduct should be covered as well. ### (19) especially due to its tendency for easy , swift and broad distribution and perpetration , as well as its intimate nature , the non-consensual making accessible of intimate images or videos and material that depict sexual activities , to a multitude of end-users , by means of information and communication technologies , can be extremely harmful for the victims. the offence provided for in this directive should cover all types of such material , such as images , photographs and videos , including sexualized images , audio clips and video clips. it should relate to situations where the making accessible of the material to a multitude of end-users , through information and communication technologies , occurs without the victim’s consent , irrespective of whether the victim consented to the generation of such material or may have transmitted it to a particular person. the offence should also include the non-consensual production or manipulation , for instance by image editing , of material that makes it appear as though another person is engaged in sexual activities , insofar as the material is subsequently made accessible to a multitude of end-users , through information and communication technologies , without the consent of that person. such production or manipulation should include the fabrication of ‘deepfakes’ , where the material appreciably resembles an existing person , objects , places or other entities or events , depicting sexual activities of another person , and would falsely appear to others to be authentic or truthful. in the interest of effectively protecting victims of such conduct , threatening to engage in such conduct should be covered as well.


### (29) when assessing the victim’s protection and support needs , the primary concern should lie in safeguarding the victim’s safety and providing tailored support , taking into account , among other matters , the individual circumstances of the victim. such circumstances requiring special attention could include the victim’s pregnancy or the victim’s dependence on or relationship to the offender. ### (29) when assessing the victim’s protection and support needs , the primary concern should lie in safeguarding the victim’s safety and providing tailored support , taking into account , among other matters , the individual circumstances of the victim. such circumstances requiring special attention could include the victim’s pregnancy , recent birth of a child or the victim’s living situation with , dependence on or relationship to the offender.


### (32) victims of violence against women and domestic violence are often in need of specific support. to ensure they effectively receive offers of support , the competent authorities should refer victims to appropriate support services. this should in particular be the case where an individual assessment has found particular support needs of the victim. in that case , support services should be able to reach out to the victim even without the victim’s consent. for the processing of related personal data by competent authorities , member states should ensure that it is based on law , in accordance with article 6(1)(c) read in conjunction with article (6)(2) and (3) of regulation (eu) 2016/679 of the european parliament and of the council41 . such laws should include appropriate personal data safeguards that respect the essence of the right to data protection and provide for suitable and specific measures to safeguard the fundamental rights and the interests of the individuals. where competent authorities transfer victims’ personal data to support services for victims’ referral , they should ensure that the data transferred is limited to what is necessary to inform the services of the circumstances of the case , so that victims receive appropriate support and protection. ### (32) victims of violence against women and domestic violence are often in need of specific support. to ensure they effectively receive offers of support , the competent authorities should refer victims to appropriate specialised support services. this should in particular be the case where an individual assessment has found particular support needs of the victim. in that case , support services should be able to reach out to the victim even without the victim’s consent. for the processing of related personal data by competent authorities , member states should ensure that it is based on law , in accordance with article 6(1)(c) read in conjunction with article (6)(2) and (3) of regulation (eu) 2016/679 of the european parliament and of the council41 . such laws should include appropriate personal data safeguards that respect the essence of the right to data protection and provide for suitable and specific measures to safeguard the fundamental rights and the interests of the individuals. where competent authorities transfer victims’ personal data to support services for victims’ referral , they should ensure that the data transferred is limited to what is necessary to inform the services of the circumstances of the case , so that victims receive appropriate support and protection.


### (33) member states should take the necessary measures to ensure the availability of emergency barring , restraining and protection orders to ensure effective protection of victims and their dependants. ### (33) member states should take the necessary measures to ensure the availability of emergency barring , restraining and protection orders to ensure effective protection of victims and their dependants in particular as regards the residence and the workplace of the victim.


### (38) given the complexities and gravity of offences of violence against women and domestic violence and specific support needs of victims , member states should ensure additional support and prevention of such offences is provided by designated bodies. given their expertise in matters of discrimination on grounds of sex , national equality bodies , set up in accordance with directives 2004/113/ec42 , 2006/54/ec43 and 2010/41/eu44 of the european parliament and of the council , are well placed to fulfil these tasks. such bodies should in addition have legal standing to act on behalf or in support of victims of all forms of violence against women or domestic violence in judicial proceedings , including for the application for compensation and removal of online illegal content , with the victims’ approval. this should include the possibility of acting on behalf or in support of several victims together. to enable these bodies to effectively carry out their tasks , member states should ensure that they are provided with sufficient human and financial resources. ### (38) given the complexities and gravity of offences of violence against women and domestic violence and specific support needs of victims , member states should ensure additional support and prevention of such offences is provided by designated bodies. given their expertise in matters of discrimination on grounds of sex or gender , national equality bodies , set up in accordance with directives 2004/113/ec42 , 2006/54/ec43 and 2010/41/eu44 of the european parliament and of the council , are well placed to fulfil these tasks. such bodies should in addition have legal standing to act on behalf or in support of victims of all forms of violence against women or domestic violence in judicial proceedings , including for the application for compensation and removal of online illegal content , with the victims’ approval. this should include the possibility of acting on behalf or in support of several victims together. to enable these bodies to effectively carry out their tasks , member states should ensure that they are provided with sufficient human and financial resources.


### (39) certain offences covered by this directive involve the increased risk of repeated , prolonged or even continuous victimisation. that risk occurs especially in relation to offences involving the making accessible to a multitude of end-users , through information and communication technologies , of material , resulting from certain offences of cyber violence , considering the ease and speed with which such material can be distributed on a large scale and the difficulties that often exist when it comes to removing such material. that risk typically remains even after a conviction. therefore , in order to effectively safeguard the rights of the victims of those offences , member states should be required to take suitable measures aimed at the removal of the material in question. considering that removal at the source may not always be feasible , for instance because of legal or practical difficulties relating to the execution or enforcement of an order to remove , member states should also be allowed to provide for measures to disable access to such material. ### (39) certain offences covered by this directive involve the increased risk of repeated , prolonged or even continuous victimisation. that risk occurs especially in relation to offences involving the making accessible to other end-users , through information and communication technologies , of material , resulting from certain offences of cyber violence , considering the ease and speed with which such material can be distributed on a large scale and the difficulties that often exist when it comes to removing such material. that risk typically remains even after a conviction. therefore , in order to effectively safeguard the rights of the victims of those offences , member states should be required to take suitable measures aimed at the removal of the material in question. considering that removal at the source may not always be feasible , for instance because of legal or practical difficulties relating to the execution or enforcement of an order to remove , member states should also be allowed to provide for measures to disable access to such material.