### 12. welcomes the fact that the high court has regained its ability to function and that it has been reviewing more than a thousand cases , and encourages it to make further progress in the appointment of additional judges; ### 12. welcomes the fact that the high court has regained its ability to function and that it has been reviewing more than a thousand cases , and encourages it to make further progress in the appointment of additional judges and dramatically reducing its unsustainable backlog of pending cases;


### 13. expresses satisfaction that the national bureau of investigation has been established , that its director is performing her duties and that investigative staff are currently being recruited; ### 13. expresses satisfaction that the national bureau of investigation has been established , that its director is performing her duties and that investigative staff are currently being recruited; underlines the importance of delivering tangible results in the form of independent and impartial investigations leading to successful prosecution of high-profile crime , including corruption;


### 21. urges the authorities to ensure that sufficient resources are provided to the ombudsman , the anti-discrimination commissioner and the commissioner for the right to information and data protection , and that their respective recommendations are implemented systematically; ### 21. urges the authorities to ensure that sufficient resources are provided to the ombudsman , the anti-discrimination commissioner and the commissioner for the right to information and data protection , and that their respective recommendations are implemented systematically; stresses that only individuals whose independence and professionalism is beyond doubt should be appointed to these offices;


### 24. recalls the importance of measures ensuring the protection of national minorities , including self-identification , the use of languages and property rights; ### 24. urges to swiftly adopt the remaining five by-laws to ensure full implementation of the 2017 framework law on the protection of national minorities and the related rights to free self- identification , the use of minority languages and the right to education in minority languages;


### 25. encourages albania to make further progress on measures consolidating property rights , implementing the law on transitional ownership , and completing the comprehensive land sector reform; ### 25. encourages albania to make further progress on measures consolidating property rights , implementing the law on transitional procedures ownership , mainly by advancing in a transparent manner the process of registration of properties , and completing the comprehensive land sector reform;


### 36. encourages the albanian government to prioritise measures aimed at mitigating the socio-economic impact of the covid-19 pandemic , while taking further steps to enhance the representativeness of the social dialogue and to tackle the widespread informal economy; ### 36. encourages the albanian government to prioritise measures aimed at mitigating the health and socio-economic impact of the covid-19 pandemic , while taking further steps to enhance the representativeness of the social dialogue and to tackle the widespread informal economy;


### 42. encourages the diversification of energy production , moving from hydropower towards wind and solar sources; urges the authorities to minimise the impact on biodiversity by restricting hydropower development in protected areas; underlines the need to improve both environmental and impact assessments across eco-sensitive sectors and boost the prosecution of environmental crimes; ### 42. encourages the diversification of energy production , increasing investments in wind and solar sources; urges the authorities to minimise the impact on biodiversity by restricting hydropower development in protected areas; underlines the need to improve both environmental and impact assessments across eco-sensitive sectors and boost the prosecution of environmental crimes;


### 42. encourages the diversification of energy production , moving from hydropower towards wind and solar sources; urges the authorities to minimise the impact on biodiversity by restricting hydropower development in protected areas; underlines the need to improve both environmental and impact assessments across eco-sensitive sectors and boost the prosecution of environmental crimes; ### 42. encourages the diversification of energy production , moving from hydropower towards wind and solar sources; urges the authorities to minimise the impact on biodiversity by restricting hydropower development in protected areas , in particular the valbona and vjosa rivers; underlines the need to improve both environmental impact assessment and strategic environmental assessment across eco-sensitive sectors and boost the prosecution of environmental crimes; highlights that new renewable energy sources should be supported in a cost-efficient manner while existing contracts should be honoured;


### 45. welcomes albania’s unremitting efforts in promoting good neighbourly relations and regional integration; ### 45. welcomes albania’s efforts in promoting good neighbourly relations and regional integration;


### 46. commends the constructive steps towards the resolution of outstanding bilateral issues , including a joint undertaking by greece and albania to resolve a dispute over their ionian maritime border through international justice; ### 46. commends the constructive steps towards the resolution of outstanding bilateral issues , including a joint undertaking by greece and albania to refer the delimitation of the maritime zones to the international court of justice;


### 1. welcomes the publication of the 20th and 21st annual reports; deplores the late publication of information about exports during 2017 and 2018; ### 1. welcomes the publication of the 20th and 21st annual reports , albeit with delay; believes that the publication of both reports represent a step forward towards a common eu position in the field of arms export , in the framework of an ever more challenging international context marked by increasing volumes of export and decreasing levels of transparency; considers both reports as valuable complements to the un reports on global and regional arms export transparency;


### 1. welcomes the publication of the 20th and 21st annual reports; deplores the late publication of information about exports during 2017 and 2018; ### 1. welcomes the publication of the 20th and 21st annual reports; regrets the late publication of information about exports during 2017 and 2018;


### 2. notes that ten member states made full submissions to the 20th annual report , and eleven to the 21st; deplores the fact that two of the main exporting countries – germany and the uk – did not make full submissions; ### 2. notes that ten member states made full submissions to the 20th annual report , and eleven to the 21st; according to the common position all member states are obliged to report on their arms exports , and urges all member states to comply fully with their obligations , as set out in the common position; criticises the fact that a number of member states did not make full submissions to the annual reports; reiterates its request that all member states which have not made full submissions provide additional information regarding their past exports with a view to the next annual report;


### 2. notes that ten member states made full submissions to the 20th annual report , and eleven to the 21st; deplores the fact that two of the main exporting countries – germany and the uk – did not make full submissions; ### 2. notes that ten member states made full submissions to the 20th annual report , and eleven to the 21st , thereby showing an increased implementation of common rules at a time of decreasing global transparency in the arms trade , especially among several major arms exporting countries; calls on member states to provide submissions for future annual reports with a view to further strengthening the eu’s efforts to improve the transparency of the global arms trade;


### 3. deplores the fact that member states use very different information in order to generate data on the value of licences , which renders the annual report considerably less usable as a comparative data set and serves to diminish its transparency and accountability before citizens and parliaments; urges france , in particular , to refrain from submitting data on the value of licences at pre-contract stage and broad values for global licences , which undermines the comparability of the report; ### 3. calls on member states to use harmonised and eu-level standardised data on the value of licences and other arms transfers , with a view to make the annual report considerably more usable as a comparative data set and as a tool to increase its transparency and accountability;


### 3. deplores the fact that member states use very different information in order to generate data on the value of licences , which renders the annual report considerably less usable as a comparative data set and serves to diminish its transparency and accountability before citizens and parliaments; urges france , in particular , to refrain from submitting data on the value of licences at pre-contract stage and broad values for global licences , which undermines the comparability of the report; ### 3. is concerned that member states use very different information in order to generate data on the value of licences , which renders the annual report considerably less usable as a comparative data set and serves to diminish its transparency and accountability before citizens and parliaments;


### 4. notes that the countries of the middle east and north africa , a region of several armed conflicts , remain the foremost regional destination for exports according to the last two annual reports; is concerned that this regional focus undermines the common foreign and security policy (cfsp) and specific eu action aimed at regional peace and stability; ### deleted


### 4. notes that the countries of the middle east and north africa , a region of several armed conflicts , remain the foremost regional destination for exports according to the last two annual reports; is concerned that this regional focus undermines the common foreign and security policy (cfsp) and specific eu action aimed at regional peace and stability; ### 4. notes that the countries of the middle east and north africa , a region of several armed conflicts , remain the foremost regional destination for exports according to the last two annual reports; notes that these regions face significant and continuing security challenges and that every export has to be assessed on a case by case basis , in the context of the wider cfsp and eu specific actions aimed at regional peace and stability;


### 5. recalls that the eu has been implementing a number of arms embargoes25 ; ### 5. recalls that the eu has been implementing a number of arms embargoes25 in line with the objectives of the cfsp; notes that the eu undertakes missions in the framework of the cfsp , including a mission enforcing an arms embargo in libya , with the aim of strengthening regional peace stability;


### 7. points out that council decision (cfsp) 2019/1560 and the relevant conclusions of 16 september 2019 have the potential to ensure that eu citizens are furnished with better information about the strategic choices made by their governments in an area which directly affects their security and their countries’ adherence to values and norms; ### 7. points out that council decision (cfsp) 2019/1560 and the relevant conclusions of 16 september 2019 have the potential to ensure that eu citizens are furnished with better information about the strategic choices made by their governments;


### 7. points out that council decision (cfsp) 2019/1560 and the relevant conclusions of 16 september 2019 have the potential to ensure that eu citizens are furnished with better information about the strategic choices made by their governments in an area which directly affects their security and their countries’ adherence to values and norms; ### 7. points out that council decision (cfsp) 2019/1560 and the relevant conclusions of 16 september 2019 reflect a growing awareness among member states of the need for even greater national and eu-wide transparency and convergence in the area of arms export and the need to strengthen public oversight in this sensitive national security domain;


### 8. notes with concern the growing divergences between the arms export policies and practices of the member states and the failure to introduce new instruments to promote convergence towards the strict application of eu rules in this area; ### deleted


### 8. notes with concern the growing divergences between the arms export policies and practices of the member states and the failure to introduce new instruments to promote convergence towards the strict application of eu rules in this area; ### 8. notes that divergences between the arms export policies and practices of the member states can slow down the convergence of eu rules in this area;


### 9. supports the council’s decision to introduce a clear reporting deadline for national submissions; welcomes the steps taken towards the online approach and encourages the further development of the latter; ### 9. notes and fully supports council’s reaffirmed commitment to transparency in the international arms trade; welcomes in this regard the introduction of concrete measures intended to facilitate the correct , coherent and timely reporting of member states’ arms exports , such as the inclusion of clear reporting deadlines to the eu annual report and further guidelines on the substance and process of reporting;


### 10. notes that since the adoption of the legally binding common position in 2008 , an increasing number of weapon systems produced in europe are made up of components from multiple countries and involve bi- or multilateral cooperation for technological , industrial and political reasons; ### 10. welcomes that since the adoption of the legally binding common position in 2008 , an increasing number of weapon systems produced in europe are made up of components from multiple countries and involve bi- or multilateral cooperation; underlines the positive role of technological , industrial and political cooperation in promoting confidence building among member states and third countries;


### 11. notes an increase in the transfer of knowledge and technology , which allows third countries to undertake licensed production of european military technology; ### 11. notes an increase in the transfer of knowledge and technology , which allows third countries to undertake licensed production of european military technology; believes that this process can foster the harmonisation of public oversight and transparency standards in defence production and accelerate the creation of internationally recognised and respected rules on arms production and export;


### 12. notes that most member states have not outlined a policy regulating the transfer of weapons components to another member state which would ensure that any export to third countries from the member state of assembly is consistent with the export policy of the member state providing the components; regards this as particularly problematic in the context of the increasing divergences between licensing practices across the eu; observes that directive 2009/43/ec on intra-community transfers has proven ill-equipped to achieve the stated goal of setting high common standards for exports to third countries; ### deleted


### 12. notes that most member states have not outlined a policy regulating the transfer of weapons components to another member state which would ensure that any export to third countries from the member state of assembly is consistent with the export policy of the member state providing the components; regards this as particularly problematic in the context of the increasing divergences between licensing practices across the eu; observes that directive 2009/43/ec on intra-community transfers has proven ill-equipped to achieve the stated goal of setting high common standards for exports to third countries; ### 12. notes that member states have not outlined a common policy regulating the transfer of weapons components to another member state which would ensure that any export to third countries from the member state of assembly is consistent with the export policy of the member state providing the components; notes that some of them continue to consider intra-eu transfers of arms and defence-related products as exports operations; regards this as particularly problematic in the context of the increasing divergences between licensing practices across the eu; calls the commission to assess the effects of directive 2009/43/ec on intra-community transfers and the stated goal of setting high common standards for exports to third countries;


### 13. observes a trend whereby the diverging export policies of the member states are increasingly considered as obstacles to cooperation projects , which is giving rise to a multitude of bilateral and specific agreements on weapon systems that allow for exports to third countries based on the least restrictive standards , rather than a joint , eu-wide approach; ### deleted


### 14. stresses that bilateral and multilateral agreements may further reduce convergence at eu level and that the failure to regulate exports uniformly between the member states and the lack of convergence in export decisions to third countries have a negative impact on human rights and international law , generate market distortions , and hinder industrial strategic planning , economies of scale and a level playing field; ### deleted


### 14. stresses that bilateral and multilateral agreements may further reduce convergence at eu level and that the failure to regulate exports uniformly between the member states and the lack of convergence in export decisions to third countries have a negative impact on human rights and international law , generate market distortions , and hinder industrial strategic planning , economies of scale and a level playing field; ### 14. stresses that bilateral and multilateral agreements may pave the way towards convergence at eu level under certain conditions and that the lack of convergence in export decisions to third countries may generate market distortions , and hinder industrial strategic planning , economies of scale and a level playing field;


### 15. notes that eu funds such as the preparatory action on defence research (padr) , the european defence industrial development programme (edidp) and the european defence fund (edf) , initiatives such as the permanent structured cooperation (pesco) , the coordinated annual review on defence (card) and the european peace facility (epf) , legislation such as the intra-community transfers and defence procurement directives of 2009 , and the creation of administrative capacities such as the commission directorate-general for defence industry and space (dg defis) are heralding an increasing europeanisation of arms production and capability development; ### 15. welcomes that eu funds such as the preparatory action on defence research (padr) , the european defence industrial development programme (edidp) and the european defence fund (edf) , initiatives such as the permanent structured cooperation (pesco) , the coordinated annual review on defence (card) and the european peace facility (epf) , legislation such as the intra-community transfers and defence procurement directives of 2009 , and the creation of administrative capacities such as the commission directorate-general for defence industry and space (dg defis) are heralding an increasing europeanisation of arms production and capability development as well as strengthening cooperation among member states and enhancing common standards in the field of arms exports;


### 15. notes that eu funds such as the preparatory action on defence research (padr) , the european defence industrial development programme (edidp) and the european defence fund (edf) , initiatives such as the permanent structured cooperation (pesco) , the coordinated annual review on defence (card) and the european peace facility (epf) , legislation such as the intra-community transfers and defence procurement directives of 2009 , and the creation of administrative capacities such as the commission directorate-general for defence industry and space (dg defis) are heralding an increasing europeanisation of arms production and capability development; ### 15. notes that eu funds such as the preparatory action on defence research (padr) , the european defence industrial development programme (edidp) and the european defence fund (edf) , initiatives such as the permanent structured cooperation (pesco) , the coordinated annual review on defence (card) and the european peace facility (epf) , legislation such as the intra-community transfers and defence procurement directives of 2009 , and the creation of administrative capacities such as the commission directorate-general for defence industry and space (dg defis) are aiming at increasing europeanisation of arms production and capability development;


### 16. underlines the fact that the interinstitutional agreement on the establishment of the edf authorises the commission to assess whether the transfer of ownership or the granting of an exclusive licence of edf-co-funded military technology contravenes the security and defence interests of the eu and its member states or the objectives of the fund as set out in article 3 of the proposed regulation; notes that this new legislation establishes a specific type of control function for the commission with regard to a specific category of exports of military technology to third countries; ### 16. underlines the fact that the interinstitutional agreement on the establishment of the edf establishes a specific type of assessment function for the commission with regard to a specific category of exports of military technology to third countries without prejudice to the competences of eu member states export control authorities to grant the authorization in this framework;


### 16. underlines the fact that the interinstitutional agreement on the establishment of the edf authorises the commission to assess whether the transfer of ownership or the granting of an exclusive licence of edf-co-funded military technology contravenes the security and defence interests of the eu and its member states or the objectives of the fund as set out in article 3 of the proposed regulation; notes that this new legislation establishes a specific type of control function for the commission with regard to a specific category of exports of military technology to third countries; ### 16. welcomes the fact that the interinstitutional agreement on the establishment of the edf authorises the commission to assess whether the transfer of ownership or the granting of an exclusive licence of edf-co-funded military technology contravenes the security and defence interests of the eu and its member states or the objectives of the fund as set out in article 3 of the proposed regulation; notes that this new legislation is a clear commitment to a greater level of control and equips the commission with additional powers of civilian oversight with regard to a specific category of exports of military technology to third countries , thereby further enhancing transparency and minimising the risk of a misuse of eu funds;


### 17. notes that under the epf , member states and the european external action service (eeas) will work on creating an eu-level system for arms transfers to third countries; ### 17. notes that under the epf , member states and the european external action service (eeas) will work on creating an eu-level system for arms transfers to third countries; believes that for any future steps towards an eu-level system for arms transfers , in particular to a common denominator , the schmidt-debré harmonisation agreement with the ‘de dinimis’ rule can already be handled as a framework;


### 17. notes that under the epf , member states and the european external action service (eeas) will work on creating an eu-level system for arms transfers to third countries; ### 17. notes that under the epf , member states and the european external action service (eeas) will work on agreeing eu-level framing principles for arms transfers to third countries;


### implementing the common position in the light of europeanised arms production ### implementing the common position in the light of enhanced coordination on europeanisation of arms production at eu level


### 18. notes that the lack of convergence of national arms export policies and decision-making is becoming increasingly untenable in the context of the prevailing europeanisation of arms production and the stated ambitions and plans to increase this further; ### deleted


### 18. notes that the lack of convergence of national arms export policies and decision-making is becoming increasingly untenable in the context of the prevailing europeanisation of arms production and the stated ambitions and plans to increase this further; ### 18. notes that the growing europeanisation of arms production and the stated ambitions and plans to increase this further will require in the long run a progressive convergence of national arms export policies and decision-making; recalls the importance of the appropriation by member states of such a process; regrets the current divergences between national arms export policies and decision-making; calls the council to continue its efforts to favour the convergence of arms export policies and decision-making;


### 19. believes that the europeanisation of arms production needs to go hand in hand with increased transparency; believes that there is still room for improvement in this area , particularly as regards the quality and uniformity of the data submitted by member states; calls on the working party on conventional arms exports (coarm): ### 19. believes that the enhanced coordination on arms production at eu level needs to go hand in hand with transparency; notes that the coarm information exchange system and the guide to the implementation of the common position are useful day-to-day tools for control authorities;


### a) to add the following additional categories in a revised reporting template in order to implement the recent september 2019 council conclusions: the exact type of weapon and the quantity exported , denomination of the munitions , the lot size and the specific end-user , revoked licences , and the value and duration of contracts regarding post-delivery services such as training and maintenance; ### a) to add additional categories in a revised reporting template , in line with internationally recognized standards , in order to implement the recent september 2019 council conclusions;


### b) to disaggregate data with regard to denial information so as to facilitate the scrutiny of specific shipments or member states; ### deleted


### b) to disaggregate data with regard to denial information so as to facilitate the scrutiny of specific shipments or member states; ### b) to collect and present data in a way that would enable , if required , the necessary scrutiny of specific shipments or member states;


### c) to clarify definitions such as licensed value and actual exports so as to facilitate the comparability of data between member states; ### c) to develop eu and internationally recognized definitions such as licensed value and actual exports so as to facilitate the comparability of data between member states and at international level;


### 20. welcomes the decision to transform the annual report into an interactive and searchable online database and expects it to be up and running before publication of the export data for 2019; calls on the eeas to inform parliament about the precise date on which this database will go online; urges coarm to chose a solution that enables data to be exported in a structured format; ### 20. welcomes the decision to transform the annual report into an interactive and searchable online database and expects it to be up and running before publication of the export data for 2019; calls on the eeas to inform parliament about the precise date on which this database will go online; urges coarm to apply a solution that enables data to be exported in a structured format;


### 21. calls on coarm to work towards amending article 7 of the common position , by calling for an improved exchange of ‘relevant information , including information on denial notifications and arms export policies’ and other ‘measures to further increase convergence’; stresses the need , to this end: ### 21. calls on coarm to work towards amending article 7 of the common position , by calling for an improved exchange of relevant information and other ‘measures to further increase convergence’; stresses the need , to this end:


### b) to follow the example of the uk in this regard by publishing risk assessments in the annual reports; ### deleted


### c) to undertake a joint assessment of country situations or potential export recipients in the light of the principles and criteria of the common position within the framework of the cfsp and in consultation with external stakeholders , including parliament; ### c) to share assessments of country situations or potential export recipients in the light of the principles and criteria of the common position within the framework of the cfsp and in consultation with external stakeholders , including parliament;


### 22. believes that the eu institutions should organise peer reviews with a view to encouraging authorities to share best practices on the collection and processing of data , fostering a better understanding of different national approaches , identifying differences as regards the interpretation of the eight criteria , and discussing ways to improve harmonisation; ### 22. believes that eu institutions should encourage authorities to share best practices on the collection and processing of data , fostering a better understanding of different national approaches , identifying national peculiarities as regards the interpretation of the eight criteria , and discussing ways and means to improve harmonisation and convergence among member states;


### 23. strongly believes that a much higher level of convergence as regards the strict application of the criteria will strengthen human rights , international law and the cfsp , and bolster the eu’s strategic security interests and strategic autonomy; ### 23. believes that a much higher level of convergence as regards the full application of the criteria will more effectively ensure the respect for human rights and international law by all parties involved in the arms trade and bolster the eu’s strategic security interests and strategic autonomy , in accordance with the goals and ambitions of the cfsp;


### 24. stresses that effective end-use controls are crucial for a responsible export policy and for lowering the risk of diversion in particular; calls on the council , the member states , the eeas and the commission to set up a large-scale training and capacity-building programme for national and eu officials on arms export controls; stresses the need to use eu funding to ensure that sufficient staff resources are available at national and eu levels and at delegations and embassies in importing countries for the purposes of implementing viable end-use controls; calls on the eeas and coarm to report on itrace any identified diversion of eu-origin goods as part of the annual report; ### 24. stresses that effective end-use controls could result in a more responsible export policy and could lower the risk of diversion in particular; calls on the council , the member states , the eeas and the commission to set up a comprehensive training and capacity-building programme for national and eu officials on arms export controls; stresses the need to use and adequate amount of eu funding to ensure that the necessary staff resources are available at national and eu levels and at delegations and embassies in importing countries for the purposes of implementing viable end-use controls of all aspects of the global arms trade; calls on the eeas and coarm to report on itrace any identified diversion of eu-origin goods as part of the annual report;


### 25. believes that the increasing europeanisation of arms production , the recent council conclusions on convergence in arms exports and the establishment of the epf should be complemented by a mechanism for eu-level monitoring and control based on strict compliance with the eight criteria; ### deleted


### 25. believes that the increasing europeanisation of arms production , the recent council conclusions on convergence in arms exports and the establishment of the epf should be complemented by a mechanism for eu-level monitoring and control based on strict compliance with the eight criteria; ### 25. believes that the increasing europeanisation of arms production , the recent council conclusions on convergence in arms exports and the establishment of the epf should be complemented by a mechanism for eu-level monitoring and control based on compliance with the eight criteria;


### 26. considers that regular consultations with national parliaments , arms export control authorities , industry associations and civil society are central to meaningful transparency; calls on coarm to enhance dialogue with civil society and consultations with parliament and arms export control authorities; encourages civil society and academia to exercise independent scrutiny of the arms trade and calls on the member states and the eeas to support such activities , including by financial means; ### 26. considers that regular consultations with national parliaments , arms export control authorities , industry associations and civil society are central to meaningful transparency; calls on coarm to continue its dialogue with civil society and consultations with parliament and arms export control authorities;


### 26. considers that regular consultations with national parliaments , arms export control authorities , industry associations and civil society are central to meaningful transparency; calls on coarm to enhance dialogue with civil society and consultations with parliament and arms export control authorities; encourages civil society and academia to exercise independent scrutiny of the arms trade and calls on the member states and the eeas to support such activities , including by financial means; ### 26. considers that regular consultations with national parliaments , arms export control authorities , industry associations and civil society are needed to enhance meaningful transparency; calls on coarm to enhance dialogue with civil society and industries , as well as consultations with parliament and arms export control authorities;


### b. whereas in the context of the covid-19 pandemic , democracy , human rights and fundamental freedoms have deteriorated in many parts of the world , disinformation campaigns and cyberattacks have increased , and isolationist trends and rivalry – rather than multilateral cooperation; ### b. whereas in the context of the covid-19 pandemic , democracy , human rights and fundamental freedoms have deteriorated in many parts of the world , disinformation campaigns and cyberattacks have increased , and isolationist trends and rivalry – rather than multilateral cooperation , have become more pronounced;


### i. whereas the npt has laid the foundation for establishing nuclear-free zones around the world; whereas the establishment of a middle east nuclear-weapon-free zone (menwfz) is one of the eu’s longstanding goals; whereas the eu has recently earmarked a budget for activities aimed at fostering inclusive dialogue among experts and policymakers with the purpose of advancing the commitment to establishing a weapons of mass destruction-free zone (wmdfz) in the middle east; ### deleted


### m. whereas the previous failure by russia to honour the security guarantees given to ukraine by the budapest memorandum has had a corrosive effect on the climate of nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation talks; ### m. whereas the 1994 budapest memorandum signed by ukraine , russia , the united states and the united kingdom , provided security guarantees against threats or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of ukraine in exchange for the relinquishment of its nuclear arsenal and its accession to the npt; whereas the previous failure by russia to honour the security guarantees given to ukraine by the budapest memorandum has had a corrosive effect on the climate of nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation talks;


### m. whereas the previous failure by russia to honour the security guarantees given to ukraine by the budapest memorandum has had a corrosive effect on the climate of nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation talks; ### m. whereas the previous failure by russia to honour the security guarantees given to ukraine by the budapest memorandum has had a corrosive effect on the climate of nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation talks; moreover , after the election of donald trump we are witnessing an increasing arms race threat , particularly following the announcement of the withdrawal of the united states from the jcpoa;


### n. whereas the worsening of the global security environment is further exacerbated by growing mistrust among states and nations , and the modernisation of arsenals has been advanced by new technologies that increase global security risks , in particular in relation with possible cyberattacks against nuclear weapons , their command , control and early warning systems , as well as by an increasing role of nuclear weapons in national policies , strategies and doctrines; whereas some states are pursuing nuclear weapons that allow for battlefield use; ### n. whereas the worsening of the global security environment is further exacerbated by growing mistrust among states and nations , and the modernisation of arsenals has been advanced by new technologies that increase global security risks , in particular in relation with possible cyberattacks against nuclear weapons , their command , control and early warning systems , as well as by an increasing role of nuclear weapons in national policies , strategies and doctrines , leading to the risk of a new global nuclear arms race; whereas a growing number of states are pursuing nuclear weapons that allow for battlefield use;


### o. whereas major military powers no longer tend to resort to arms control and disarmament to ease international tensions and improve the global security environment , ultimately leading to an increase in nuclear risks worldwide; ### o. whereas there is a significant risk that major military powers no longer tend to resort to arms control and disarmament to ease international tensions and improve the global security environment , ultimately leading to an increase in nuclear risks worldwide;


### q. whereas the treaty on the prohibition of nuclear weapons (tpnw) was adopted in 2017 by 122 states; ### q. whereas the treaty on the prohibition of nuclear weapons (tpnw) was adopted in 2017 by 122 states , among which none of the nuclear -weapon states; whereas the european union was not able to agree on a common position on the treaty;


### r. whereas the extension of the bilateral us-russian federation new start treaty that limits the number of deployed strategic nuclear warheads on either side to 1 550 , until its expiration in february 2021 , would be a key element in preserving strategic stability and containing a new arms race; ### r. whereas the extension of the bilateral us-russian federation new start treaty that limits the number of deployed strategic nuclear warheads on either side to 1 550 , until its expiration in february 2021 , would be a key element in preserving strategic stability and containing a new arms race among great powers;


### w. whereas the status of the democratic people’s republic of korea’s (dprk) weapons of mass destruction remains unchanged; whereas , according to the iaea annual report for 2018 , pyongyang continued its nuclear activities; whereas signs of activity from dprk’s nuclear sites were reported throughout 2019 , and pyongyang announced an imminent ‘very important test’ at a satellite-launching site; whereas perspectives for concrete steps towards denuclearisation of the area in the short-term are slim; ### w. whereas the status of the democratic people’s republic of korea’s (dprk) , who withdrew in 2003 from the treaty and acquired the ability to manufacture nuclear weapons despite strong international sanctions , weapons of mass destruction remains unchanged; whereas , according to the iaea annual report for 2018 , pyongyang continued its nuclear activities; whereas signs of activity from dprk’s nuclear sites were reported throughout 2019 , and pyongyang announced an imminent ‘very important test’ at a satellite-launching site; whereas perspectives for concrete steps towards denuclearisation of the area in the short-term are slim;


### continue emphasising that any further deepening of divergences among states would lead to a progressive discrediting of the npt as a reliable global legal instrument and to an erosion of the global disarmament regime; warn state parties that , owing to the lack of consensus at the 2015 review conference and the preparatory committees , the future of the npt can no longer be taken for granted without clear commitment by the states; ### continue emphasising that any further deepening of divergences among states would lead to a progressive discrediting of the npt as a reliable global legal instrument and to an erosion of the global disarmament regime , thereby raising the risk of further global nuclear arms proliferation; warn state parties that , owing to the lack of consensus at the 2015 review conference and the preparatory committees , the future of the npt can no longer be taken for granted without clear commitment by the states;


### encourage the states to reconfirm their commitment to uphold and actively promote the 72-year practice of non-use of nuclear weapons as a binding , non-violable norm; highlight that safeguarding the norms against such use is key to preserving global security and achieving humanitarian objectives; warn npt state parties that any expansion of the situations in which nuclear weapons could be used could seriously jeopardise global strategic stability and the practice of non-use; ### encourage the states to reconfirm their commitment to uphold and actively promote the 72-year practice of non-use of nuclear weapons as a binding , non-violable norm; highlight that safeguarding the norms against such use is key to preserving global security and achieving humanitarian objectives; warn npt state parties that any expansion of the situations in which nuclear weapons could be used could seriously jeopardise global strategic stability and the practice of non-use; that the imposition of sanctions on any signatory country could be considered in the case of any withdrawal from the treaty;


### call on states to recognise nuclear arms control , disarmament and non-proliferation regimes as crucial tools in substantially contributing to reversing the deterioration of the international security environment , thereby preventing major interstate war and preserving peace and security; ### call on states to recognise nuclear arms and related delivery technologies control , disarmament and non-proliferation regimes as crucial tools in confidence building and in substantially contributing to reversing the deterioration of the international security environment , thereby preventing major interstate war and preserving peace and security;


### reiterate the eu’s deep regret in connection with the recent collapse of the inf treaty , while stressing the significant negative impact of this on european security; call on both signatories to the inf treaty to resume dialogue on possible ways to put in place a new legally binding instrument for short- and medium-range missiles; support efforts to multilateralise such instrument; ### reiterate the eu’s deep regret in connection with the recent collapse of the inf treaty , while stressing the significant negative impact of this on european security; call on both signatories to the inf treaty to resume dialogue on possible ways to put in place a new legally binding instrument for short- and medium-range missiles; support efforts to multilateralise such instrument to all countries owning this kind of weapons;


### consider the adoption of the tpnw by 122 states as evidence of the desire of the majority of the international community to achieve the objective of a nuclear-weapons-free world; ### deleted


### consider the adoption of the tpnw by 122 states as evidence of the desire of the majority of the international community to achieve the objective of a nuclear-weapons-free world; ### consider the adoption of the tpnw by 122 states , signed by 80 states and ratified by 35 , as evidence of the desire of the majority of the international community to achieve the objective of a nuclear-weapons-free world;


### confirm the inalienable right of the npt parties to the peaceful use of nuclear energy to meet their long-term energy requirements , in conformity with the npt provisions; work with countries wishing to develop capacities in this area towards a responsible use of nuclear energy for solely peaceful purposes , provided all safety , security and non-proliferation conditions are met; recall in particular that the needs of developing countries should be duly taken into account; encourage the state parties to use the opportunity of the 2020 review process to further deepen the debate on the peaceful use of nuclear energy; recognise the role and value of the iaea and its safeguard system in implementing the npt and in strengthening the nuclear security framework; ### confirm the inalienable right of the npt parties to the peaceful use of nuclear energy to meet their long-term energy requirements , in conformity with the npt provisions; work with countries wishing to develop capacities in this area towards a responsible use of nuclear energy for solely peaceful purposes , provided all safety , security and non-proliferation conditions are met; in cases when such countries fail to cooperate and comply with all safety , security and non-proliferation conditions , an appropriate measures to be considered; provide help and make it obligatory for countries wishing to develop capacities in the peaceful use of nuclear energy to develop a strong nuclear safety culture; recognise the role and value of the iaea and its safeguard system in implementing the npt and in strengthening the nuclear security framework;


### confirm the inalienable right of the npt parties to the peaceful use of nuclear energy to meet their long-term energy requirements , in conformity with the npt provisions; work with countries wishing to develop capacities in this area towards a responsible use of nuclear energy for solely peaceful purposes , provided all safety , security and non-proliferation conditions are met; recall in particular that the needs of developing countries should be duly taken into account; encourage the state parties to use the opportunity of the 2020 review process to further deepen the debate on the peaceful use of nuclear energy; recognise the role and value of the iaea and its safeguard system in implementing the npt and in strengthening the nuclear security framework; ### confirm the right of the npt parties to the peaceful use of nuclear energy to meet their long-term energy requirements , in conformity with the npt provisions; work with countries wishing to develop capacities in this area towards a responsible use of nuclear energy for solely peaceful purposes , provided all safety , security and non-proliferation conditions are met; recall in particular that the needs of developing countries should be duly taken into account; encourage the state parties to use the opportunity of the 2020 review process to further deepen the debate on the peaceful use of nuclear energy; recognise the role and value of the iaea and its safeguard system in implementing the npt and in strengthening the nuclear security framework;


### continue its efforts to establish a zone free of nuclear weapons and all other weapons of mass destruction in the middle east in line with the 1995 resolution; pursue the initiatives carried out in order to promote confidence-building through actions aimed at fostering inclusive dialogue among experts and policy makers , supported by a financial envelope of eur 2.86 million for the implementation of the projects; ### continue its efforts to establish a zone free of nuclear weapons and all other weapons of mass destruction in the middle east in line with the 1995 resolution , which are today jeopardized by the resumption of iran's uranium enrichment activities and israel's reaction with this regard; pursue the initiatives carried out in order to promote confidence-building through actions aimed at fostering inclusive dialogue among experts and policy makers , supported by a financial envelope of eur 2.86 million for the implementation of the projects;


### continue its efforts to establish a zone free of nuclear weapons and all other weapons of mass destruction in the middle east in line with the 1995 resolution; pursue the initiatives carried out in order to promote confidence-building through actions aimed at fostering inclusive dialogue among experts and policy makers , supported by a financial envelope of eur 2.86 million for the implementation of the projects; ### continue its efforts to establish a zone free of nuclear weapons and all other weapons of mass destruction in the middle east in line with the 1995 resolution , which are today weakened by israel's policies and the resumption on iran's uranium enrichment activities ; pursue the initiatives carried out in order to promote confidence-building through actions aimed at fostering inclusive dialogue among experts and policy makers , supported by a financial envelope of eur 2.86 million for the implementation of the projects;


### take into account the outcome of the first session of the conference on the establishment of a middle east nuclear-weapon-free zone , and continue supporting the longstanding goal of drafting a legally binding treaty allowing for the establishment of a menwfz; encourage all participating states to do their utmost to advance in this endeavour at the second session of the conference; ### continue supporting the establishment of a middle east nuclear-weapon-free zone , given that all official exchanges and decisions related to the disarmament issues to be held under a format based on the agreed principles of the united nations disarmament commission (undc); encourage all participating states to do their utmost to advance in this endeavour at the next session of the conference on the establishment of menwfz;


### call on the state parties to develop and put in place measures aimed at mitigating the risks of using nuclear weapons , be it intentionally , by misperception or miscalculation in an escalating conflict , or accidentally; measures could include improving communication channels and protocols , creating a clear distinction between conventional and nuclear assets , as well as improving resilience to cyberattacks and extending decision-time in a crisis; ### call on the state parties to develop and put in place measures aimed at mitigating the risks of using nuclear weapons , be it intentionally , by misperception or miscalculation in an escalating conflict , or accidentally; measures could include improving communication channels and protocols , creating a clear distinction between conventional and nuclear assets , as well as improving resilience to hybrid threats , cyberattacks and extending decision-time in a crisis;


### (aa) reaffirm the eu’s continuing commitment to the jcpoa as the best possible means for obtaining assurances of an exclusively peaceful use of nuclear energy by iran , and as a vital tool for enhancing stability and security in the middle east; reiterate the eu’s regret over the withdrawal by the us from the jcpoa and the re-impositions of sanctions; call on iran to return to full compliance with its nuclear-related commitments under the jcpoa and the npt; ### (aa) reaffirm the eu’s continuing commitment to the jcpoa as the best possible means for obtaining assurances of an exclusively peaceful use of nuclear energy by iran , and as a vital tool for enhancing stability and security in the middle east; reiterate the eu’s regret over the withdrawal by the us from the jcpoa and the re-impositions of sanctions; regret iran’s removal of limits on its production of enriched uranium , which can be used for the production of reactor fuel , as well as nuclear weapons , thereby contradicting its commitments under the jcpoa; call on iran to return to full compliance with its nuclear-related commitments under the jcpoa and the npt;


### (aa) reaffirm the eu’s continuing commitment to the jcpoa as the best possible means for obtaining assurances of an exclusively peaceful use of nuclear energy by iran , and as a vital tool for enhancing stability and security in the middle east; reiterate the eu’s regret over the withdrawal by the us from the jcpoa and the re-impositions of sanctions; call on iran to return to full compliance with its nuclear-related commitments under the jcpoa and the npt; ### (aa) reaffirm the eu’s continuing commitment to the jcpoa as the best possible means for obtaining assurances of an exclusively peaceful use of nuclear energy by iran , and as a vital tool for stability and security in the middle east; reiterate the eu’s deep concern over iran's violations of its commitments since july 2019; and deplores the withdrawal by the us from the jcpoa and the re-impositions of sanctions; call on iran to return to full compliance with its nuclear-related commitments under the jcpoa and the npt;


### — having regard to the european reform agenda (era) for kosovo , launched in pristina on 11 november 2016 , ### — having regard to the european reform agenda (era) for kosovo , launched in pristina on 11 november 2016 , as well as the launching of the era 2 in october 2020 ,


### d. whereas kosovo remains the only country in the western balkans whose citizens need a visa to travel to the schengen area although all benchmarks for visa liberalisation have been fulfilled since 2018; ### d. whereas kosovo remains the only country in the western balkans whose citizens need a visa to travel to the schengen area;


### g. whereas the covid-19 pandemic represents an unprecedented burden on kosovo’s health , economy , and social protection systems; ### g. whereas the covid-19 pandemic represents an unprecedented burden on kosovo’s health , economy , and social protection systems and has clearly demonstrated that the eu and the western balkans must continue tackling common challenges together;


### 1. welcomes kosovo’s continued commitment to advancing on its european path , as well as the strong support for european integration among kosovo’s population; ### 1. welcomes kosovo’s continued and strong commitment to advancing on its european path , as well as the strong support for european integration among kosovo’s population;


### 2. regrets the limited progress in implementing the era , and calls on the kosovo authorities to take ownership of the process , demonstrate greater political will and improve administrative capacity in order to enhance implementation of the eu-related reforms; ### 2. regrets the limited progress in implementing the era 1 , while acknowledging the commitment of the government for a broad and all inclusive reform process as foreseen by era 2; calls on the kosovo authorities to take ownership of the process , demonstrate greater political will and improve administrative capacity in order to enhance implementation of the eu-related reforms;


### 3. expresses concern about the dissolution of the ministry of the eu integration , and calls on the government of kosovo to ensure that the new structure is granted the level of competence and responsibilities appropriate to ensuring proper coordination of the integration process; ### 3. expresses concern about the dissolution of the ministry of the eu integration , and calls on the need to fully and properly integrate the former structures of the ministry of eu integration in the prime minister office as foreseen on the newly approved regulation of the organisational structure of the prime minister’s office;


### 5. welcomes the commission’s statement of 26 august 2020 confirming its assessment of kosovo’s ability to benefit from the visa liberalisation regime , and calls on the council to urgently proceed with the adoption of a visa-free regime for the citizens of kosovo; ### 5. welcomes the commission’s statement of 26 august 2020 confirming its assessment of kosovo’s ability to benefit from the visa liberalisation regime;


### 5. welcomes the commission’s statement of 26 august 2020 confirming its assessment of kosovo’s ability to benefit from the visa liberalisation regime , and calls on the council to urgently proceed with the adoption of a visa-free regime for the citizens of kosovo; ### 5. welcomes the commission’s statement of 26 august 2020 confirming its assessment of kosovo’s ability to benefit from the visa liberalisation regime , and calls on the council to urgently proceed with the adoption of a visa-free regime for the citizens of kosovo; reiterates its concern that the lack of a decision from the council could weaken eu's credibility in the western balkans and might impact the dialogue between kosovo and serbia;


### 10. stresses the need to intensify the fight against corruption , and expresses its serious concern about the abolition of the special anti-corruption department within the kosovo police (kp); ### 10. stresses the need for a political will to intensify the fight against corruption , and expresses its serious concern about the abolition of the special anti-corruption department within the kosovo police (kp);


### 14. reiterates that selections and appointments for high-level decision-making positions in the civil service and publicly owned enterprises remain of great concern; ### 14. reiterates the need for a fair and competitive process of selections and appointments for high-level decision-making positions in the civil service and publicly owned enterprises and acknowledges the efforts of the government of kosovo through signing the memorandums of understanding with the united kingdom to oversee this process and to support and advice the local institutions;


### 17. calls for greater protection and inclusion of persons belonging to minorities , including roma , ashkali and egyptians , as well as persons with disabilities , by providing them with adequate health and social protection and care; urges more efforts to fight discrimination and antigypsyism; ### 17. calls for greater protection and inclusion of persons belonging to minorities , including roma , ashkali and egyptians , as well as persons with disabilities and displaced persons , by providing them with adequate health and social protection and care; urges more efforts to fight discrimination and antigypsyism;


### 18. notes the failure to ensure the financial and editorial freedom of the public broadcaster; reiterates the need to guarantee full transparency of media ownership; ### 18. calls for the need to establish financial and editorial freedom of the public broadcaster; reiterates the need to further strengthen media transparency , including media ownership;


### 18. notes the failure to ensure the financial and editorial freedom of the public broadcaster; reiterates the need to guarantee full transparency of media ownership; ### 18. notes the failure to ensure the financial and editorial freedom of the public broadcaster; reiterates the need to guarantee full transparency of media ownership; stresses the need to step up fight against threats and attacks against journalists;


### 19. calls for better cooperation between government and civil society , and for increased participation of civil society in policymaking; ### 19. notes that the environment in which civil society operates continued to improve and government authorities continue to make efforts to enhance the ability of civil society to contribute meaningfully to policy development; calls for further efforts to enhance transparency of public funding for civil society organisation;


### 22. calls on the kosovo authorities to increase efforts to promote t gender equality , including by prioritising gender mainstreaming and increased cooperation with civil society , including women’s organisations , as well as by creating an environment conducive to the better representation of women in decision-making positions; ### 22. calls on the kosovo authorities to increase efforts to promote gender equality and strengthening women’s economic position , including by prioritising gender mainstreaming and increased cooperation with civil society , including women’s organisations , as well as by creating an environment conducive to the better representation of women in decision-making positions;


### 25. stresses that normalisation of relations between serbia and kosovo is a priority and a precondition for eu accession; calls for active and constructive engagement in the eu-facilitated dialogue led by the eu special representative , seeking a comprehensive and legally binding agreement in accordance with international law; reiterates its call to move forward with the full implementation , in good faith and in a timely manner , of all the agreements already reached; ### 25. stresses that normalisation of relations between serbia and kosovo is a priority and a precondition for eu accession for both countries; calls for active and constructive engagement in the eu-facilitated dialogue led by the eu special representative , seeking a comprehensive and legally binding agreement in accordance with international law; reiterates its call to move forward with the full implementation , in good faith and in a timely manner , of all the agreements already reached;


### 29. calls for more efforts in dealing with the requests of family members of missing persons , the opening of wartime archives , and for information to be revealed about people who are still listed as missing from the 1998-99 kosovo war; ### 29. calls for more efforts in dealing with the requests of family members of missing persons , the opening of all wartime archives , and for information to be revealed about people who are still listed as missing from the 1998-99 kosovo war;


### 33. notes that the pandemic is putting the health system under stress; urges kosovo to strengthen the health sector in order to provide adequate and accessible primary health services for all citizens , in particular through needs-based social benefits for the groups most affected by the covid-19 crisis; ### 33. notes that the pandemic is putting the health system under stress; urges kosovo to strengthen the health sector in order to provide adequate and accessible primary health services for all citizens , in particular through needs-based social benefits for the groups most affected by the covid-19 crisis; calls on the european commission and the member states to allocate a sufficient amount of covid-19 vaccines to the citizens of all western balkan countries;


### 36. expresses serious concern about the continuing high rate of premature deaths due to polluted air; urges the kosovo authorities to tackle air pollution immediately and phase out coal; ### 36. expresses serious concern about the continuing high rate of premature deaths due to polluted air; urges the kosovo authorities to tackle air pollution immediately and phase out coal , acknowledging the recent revision of the energy sector strategy to address this issue;


### 38. calls on kosovo to implement credible and sustainable public transport and mobility policies for addressing long-standing infrastructure deficiencies , including regular public transport links to north mitrovica; ### 38. calls on kosovo to implement credible and sustainable public transport and mobility policies for addressing long-standing infrastructure deficiencies , including regular public transport links to north mitrovica and all major towns throughout the country;


### – having regard to the european council conclusions of 28 june 2018 , the council conclusions of 18 june 2019 and the european council conclusions of 17-18 october 2019 , which postponed the decisions on opening accession negotiations with north macedonia and albania , ### – having regard to the european council conclusions of 28 june 2018 , the council conclusions of 18 june 2019 and the european council conclusions of 17-18 october 2019 , which postponed the decisions on opening accession negotiations with the republic of north macedonia and the republic of albania ,


### – having regard to the treaty of friendship , good neighbourliness , and cooperation between bulgaria and the republic of north macedonia , signed on 1 august 2017 and ratified in january 2018 , ### – having regard to the treaty of friendship , good neighbourliness , and cooperation between the republic of bulgaria and the republic of north macedonia , signed on 1 august 2017 and ratified in january 2018 ,


### a. whereas north macedonia has made consistent progress on its path towards the eu; ### a. whereas north macedonia has made consistent progress on its path towards the eu , strengthening the mutual climate of confidence;


### b. whereas the country is maintaining a steady pace on the rule of law and functioning of democratic institutions and procedures; ### b. whereas the country is maintaining a steady pace in advancing eu reforms , in particular in key areas such as the rule of law , fight against corruption and organised crime , intelligence services , public administration and functioning of democratic institutions and procedures;


### 2. urges the authorities to sustain consensual efforts to strengthen democratic consolidation and the transformation process , fight against corruption , and restore the rule of law , while improving the climate for media and civil society; ### 2. urges the authorities to sustain consensual efforts to strengthen democracy and the transformation process , continue to fight against corruption , and to reinforce the rule of law , while improving the climate for media and civil society;


### 4. commends the steady steps in following up on the ‘urgent reform priorities’ and recommendations of the venice commission and the senior experts’ group on systemic rule of law issues; ### 4. commends the progress achieved in addressing the ‘urgent reform priorities’ and following up on the recommendations of the venice commission and the senior experts’ group on systemic rule of law issues;


### 7. urges the completion of measures to ensure judicial and prosecutorial professionalism , independence , integrity and accountability , including through an efficient implementation of codes of ethics and of the landmark law on the public prosecutor’s office , ensuring sustainable solutions for cases related to the special prosecutor’s office , and accountability for crimes stemming from the large-scale illegal wiretapping case; ### 7. urges the implementation of measures to ensure judicial and prosecutorial professionalism , independence , integrity and accountability , including through an efficient implementation of codes of ethics and of the landmark law on the public prosecutor’s office , ensuring sustainable solution for the cases of the special prosecutor’s office , and accountability for crimes stemming from the large-scale illegal wiretapping case;


### 8. encourages the conclusion of institutional reforms and the restructuring of the security and intelligence sectors; ### 8. encourages the conclusion of institutional reforms and the implementation of the ongoing reforms in the security and intelligence sectors , ensuring financial and operational independence of the new national security agency and a meaningful parliamentary oversight over secret services;


### 9. calls for continued efforts to tackle organised crime and corruption through effective dissuasion , prevention , detection , financial investigation and sanctions for money laundering , financial crimes and terrorism finance , along with operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks; ### 9. calls for continued efforts to tackle organised crime and corruption through effective dissuasion , prevention , detection , financial investigation and sanctions for money laundering , financial crimes and terrorism finance , along with operations aimed at dismantling criminal networks; urges to further align with the acquis and conduct systematic financial investigations , stepping up freezing , confiscation and management of illegally acquired assets;


### 10. welcomes the positive engagement of the country’s main political forces , enabling adoption of key legislation and a smooth electoral process; ### 10. recalls that a constructive role of the opposition is essential for functioning of the parliament and the adoption of key legislation , such as eu-related reforms and the nato integration process;


### 11. commends the fact that opposition parties remained engaged in the sobranie , the assembly of the republic of north macedonia , and supported key decisions in the common national interest; ### deleted


### 13. underscores the need to improve the legislative process by minimising the use of fast track procedures , and by enabling proper consultations and impact assessments; recalls the need to upgrade the parliamentary rules of procedure by consensus; ### 13. underscores the need to improve the legislative process by minimising the use of fast track procedures , and by enabling proper consultations and impact assessments; recalls the need to upgrade the parliamentary rules of procedure by consensus in order to empower the parliament and strengthen legislative , oversight and budgetary scrutiny mechanisms;


### 14. underlines the need to complete a timely , inclusive and comprehensive review of the electoral code; ### 14. underlines the need to complete a timely , inclusive and comprehensive review of the electoral legislation , by addressing the remaining recommendations of the osce/odihr and venice commission;


### 15. calls for additional measures to improve the transparency of political party financing; recalls the need to effectively implement the recommendations of the state audit office; ### 15. calls for additional measures to improve the transparency of political party financing and ensure democratic and competitive intra-party functioning mechanisms; recalls the need to effectively implement the recommendations of the state audit office;


### 18. welcomes the renewed adoption of anti-discrimination legislation , and urges the authorities to follow up with an inclusive and transparent process establishing an independent anti-discrimination commission , ensuring protection and inclusion of all marginalised groups; encourages the sobranie to adopt legislation which will enable a simplified , transparent and accessible procedure for legal gender recognition , and prevent discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity; ### 18. welcomes the renewed adoption of anti-discrimination legislation , and urges the authorities to follow up with an inclusive and transparent process establishing an independent anti-discrimination commission , ensuring protection and inclusion of all marginalised groups; encourages the sobranie to adopt legislation which will enable a simplified , transparent and accessible procedure based on self-determination for legal gender recognition , and prevent discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity; notes the organisation of the first-ever skopje pride in june 2019;


### 21. calls on lawmakers in northern macedonia to take steps to ensure an adequate representation of women in all decision-making positions , and to further address the gender imbalance and gender pay gap in the labour force; ### 21. calls on lawmakers in north macedonia to take steps to ensure an adequate representation of women in all decision-making positions , following the positive trends in women’s representation in the parliament , facilitated by mandatory gender quotas , and to further address the gender imbalance and gender pay gap in the labour force;


### 22. welcomes the country’s efforts in improving cooperation on managing migration and addressing the needs of refugees , asylum seekers and migrants; recalls the need to establish a viable mechanism for managing irregular migratory flows , ensuring international protection and combating people smuggling networks; ### 22. welcomes the country’s efforts in improving cooperation on managing migration and addressing the basic needs of refugees , asylum seekers and migrants; calls for further strengthening international protection of those in need; recalls the need to establish a viable mechanism for managing irregular migratory flows and combating people smuggling networks;


### 23. acknowledges that the generally favourable environment for freedom of expression and media independence must be enhanced through improved self-regulation , transparency of ownership and advertising market , while increasing financial sustainability and impartiality of public and private media outlets; ### 23. acknowledges that the generally favourable environment for freedom of expression and media independence must be enhanced through improved legal framework , self-regulation , transparency of ownership and advertising market , while increasing financial sustainability and impartiality of public and private media outlets , reducing political advertising and ensuring independent editorial policies;


### 24. encourages systemic media reforms that would reinvigorate competition , the independence of the public service broadcaster , and quality investigative journalism; ### 24. encourages systemic media reforms that would reinvigorate competition , the independence of the public service broadcaster , media regulator and support investigative journalism;


### 25. commends steps enhancing media self-regulation and professional standards; ### 25. notes the steps taken to enhance media self-regulation through the register of professional online media and stepping-up professional standards through the charter on journalists’ working conditions and draft fair working contract for digital media;


### 26. urges the adoption of measures to safeguard the financial and operational independence of the public service broadcaster and the agency for audio and audiovisual media services; ### 26. urges the adoption of measures to safeguard the financial and operational independence of the public service broadcaster and the agency for audio and audiovisual media services , commends the agency’s efforts on monitoring transparency of media ownership and tackling the instances of hate speech , discrimination and threats against reporters;


### 27. calls for effective investigations into physical threats and verbal attacks against media professionals; ### 27. calls for effective investigations into physical threats and verbal attacks against media professionals; urges to ensure a clear cleavage between a free public debate as opposed to hate speech , defamation or incitement to violence;


### 34. welcomes continuous steps to ensure compliance with the obligations of the third energy package , and create an integrated regional energy market; ### 34. welcomes continuous steps to ensure compliance with the obligations of the third energy package , and create an integrated regional energy market through electricity and gas interconnectors with neighbouring countries;


### 35. recalls the potential of the economic and investment plan for the western balkans to enhance regional connectivity through rail corridor viii to bulgaria , and gas interconnectors to greece , kosovo and serbia; ### 35. recalls the potential of the economic and investment plan for the western balkans , notably to enhance regional connectivity through rail corridor viii to bulgaria , and the north macedonia-kosovo and north macedonia-serbia gas interconnectors;


### 36. calls for political will to implement ambitious environmental protection and sustainable development plans; ### 36. calls for political will to implement ambitious environmental protection and sustainable development plans including through restrictions on hydropower development in protected areas , ensuring environmental liability and protecting biodiversity;


### 39. regrets that bulgaria and north macedonia have yet to find a compromise on issues related to history and language , trusts that they will soon be settled in order not to jeopardise the integration momentum , and looks forward to holding of the first intergovernmental conference , kick-starting the accession talks without a further delay; ### 39. regrets that bulgaria and north macedonia have yet to find a compromise on pending bilateral issues and recalls the importance of achieving tangible results in the implementing in good faith bilateral agreements as part of the enlargement process; encourages both sides to reach a compromise over a roadmap of concrete measures , which implementation will be assessed throughout the accession process; looks forward to the holding of the first intergovernmental conference as soon as possible after the adoption of the negotiating framework;


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


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


### 18. welcomes the eu’s efforts to promote the universality of the rome statute in 2018 , during which the 20th anniversary of its adoption was celebrated , and reaffirms its unwavering support of the international criminal court; calls on the commission and the eeas to explore ways and present new tools to help the victims of violations of international human rights law and of international humanitarian law to access international justice and obtain remedy and reparation; ### 18. welcomes the eu’s efforts to promote the universality of the rome statute in 2018 , during which the 20th anniversary of its adoption was celebrated , and reaffirms its unwavering support of the international criminal court; calls for the eu and its member states to encourage all un member states to ratify and implement the rome statute of the icc , and is dismayed at the withdrawals from the statute and the threats to do so; calls also on all the signatories of the rome statute to coordinate and cooperate with the icc; calls on the commission and the eeas to explore ways and present new tools to help the victims of violations of international human rights law and of international humanitarian law to access international justice and obtain remedy and reparation;


### 18. welcomes the eu’s efforts to promote the universality of the rome statute in 2018 , during which the 20th anniversary of its adoption was celebrated , and reaffirms its unwavering support of the international criminal court; calls on the commission and the eeas to explore ways and present new tools to help the victims of violations of international human rights law and of international humanitarian law to access international justice and obtain remedy and reparation; ### 18. welcomes the eu’s efforts to promote the universality of the rome statute in 2018 , during which the 20th anniversary of its adoption was celebrated , and reaffirms its unwavering support of the international criminal court; calls on the eu and its member states to systematically support icc examinations , investigations and decisions and to take the necessary steps to prevent instances of non-cooperation with the icc; calls on the commission and the eeas to explore ways and present new tools to help the victims of violations of international human rights law and of international humanitarian law to access international justice and obtain remedy and reparation;


### 19. welcomes the initial discussions within the council regarding the establishment of an eu human rights sanctions mechanism , the so-called ‘magnitsky list’ , allowing for targeted sanctions against individuals complicit in serious human rights violations; ### 19. welcomes the initial discussions within the council regarding the establishment of an eu human rights sanctions mechanism and urges to follow an example of the eu member states (estonia , latvia , lithuania and the united kingdom) , which have already enacted the so-called ‘magnitsky list’ , allowing for targeted sanctions against individuals complicit in serious human rights violations;


### 19. welcomes the initial discussions within the council regarding the establishment of an eu human rights sanctions mechanism , the so-called ‘magnitsky list’ , allowing for targeted sanctions against individuals complicit in serious human rights violations; ### 19. welcomes the initial discussions within the council regarding the establishment of an eu human rights sanctions mechanism , the so-called ‘magnitsky list’ , allowing for targeted sanctions against individuals complicit in serious human rights violations; calls on the council to speed up its discussions in order to set up this mechanism with adequate resources as soon as possible;


### a. whereas parliament has a duty and responsibility to exercise its democratic oversight of the common foreign and security policy (cfsp) and common security and defence policy (csdp) and should have the means to fulfil this role; ### a. whereas parliament has a duty and responsibility to exercise its democratic oversight of the common foreign and security policy (cfsp) and common security and defence policy (csdp) and should have effective means to fulfil this role;


### b. whereas the eu’s external action has a direct impact on the wellbeing of its citizens and aims to ensure security and stability while safeguarding the european values of freedom , democracy , equality , the rule of law and respect for human rights; ### b. whereas the eu’s external action has a direct impact on the wellbeing of its citizens , within and outside the eu , and aims to ensure security and stability while safeguarding the european values of freedom , democracy , equality , the rule of law and respect for human rights;


### c. whereas the need for a stronger and united europe when it comes to external relations is more urgent than before; ### c. whereas the need for a stronger and more united europe in external relations is more urgent than ever in order to address the multiple challenges which directly or indirectly affect the member states and its citizens: armed conflicts and fragile states , terrorism and particularly jihadism , cyber-attacks , foreign interference in european political and electoral processes , tensions over the energy supply of eu member states , the rise of organised crime at the borders and towards europe , weakening of disarmament efforts , uncontrolled migration and climate change;


### c. whereas the need for a stronger and united europe when it comes to external relations is more urgent than before; ### c. whereas the need for a stronger and united europe when it comes to external relations is more urgent than before; whereas an ambitious , credible and effective common foreign policy must be underpinned by adequate financial resources and timely and decisive actions from the eu;


### e. whereas the world is facing a global shift of powers with geopolitical competition being a leading trend in foreign politics that requires quick and adequate response mechanisms; ### e. whereas the world is facing a global shift of powers with geopolitical competition being a leading trend in foreign politics that requires quick and adequate response mechanisms; whereas the eu is largely absent in this global shift of powers and geopolitical competition due to a lack of unity among its member states;


### f. whereas new political forces are pushing for their own global and regional ambitions with unpredictable consequences for global security; ### f. whereas new economic powers and political forces are pushing for their own global and regional ambitions with unpredictable consequences for global security;


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


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


### provide the countries affected by conflicts and natural disasters with prompt and adequate humanitarian assistance , in coordination with like-minded partners; ### allocate prompt and adequate humanitarian aid and assistance to the countries affected by the extreme drought and other natural disasters and by the russian aggression in ukraine , which has contributed to soaring food and fuel costs and disrupted global supply chains;


### acknowledge the positive impacts of operation atlanta in guaranteeing maritime security , and take note of the non-extension of its mandate within the unsc; call on the member states to show adequate commitment to the eu training mission in somalia both in terms of personnel and means , in order to empower the somali armed forces to guarantee security in the country; ### acknowledge the positive impact of operation atalanta in guaranteeing maritime security , and deplore the non-extension of the unsc resolution 2608 (2021) which unfortunately limits the access of the operation to the somalian territorial waters; call on the member states to show adequate commitment to the eu training mission in somalia both in terms of personnel and means , in order to empower the somali armed forces to guarantee security in the country;


### acknowledge the positive impacts of operation atlanta in guaranteeing maritime security , and take note of the non-extension of its mandate within the unsc; call on the member states to show adequate commitment to the eu training mission in somalia both in terms of personnel and means , in order to empower the somali armed forces to guarantee security in the country; ### acknowledge the positive impacts of operation atalanta in guaranteeing maritime security and the achievements of the eucap nestor mission and the eu mase programme in developing national and regional capacities for maritime law enforcements;call on the member states to show adequate commitment to the eu training mission in somalia both in terms of personnel and means , in order to empower the somali armed forces to guarantee security in the country;


### take note of the growing activity of terrorist groups in the whole region , and provide tailored and effective assistance to the affected countries in countering both the immediate effects of this expansion and the root causes of extremism and radicalisation; ### take note of the persistent activity of the al shabab terrorist group in part of the region , and calls for the provision of tailored and effective assistance to the affected countries in countering both the immediate effects of this expansion and the root causes of extremism and radicalisation;


### ensure that assistance channelled through the european peace facility abides by european fundamental values and helps in building a transparent , accountable and reliable security sector; ### maintain the support provided via the european peace facility , especially to eunavfor atalanta and to eutm somalia to help building an accountable , robust and reliable security sector;


### acknowledge that efficient infrastructures are key to consistent , sustainable and fair development in the region; fully exploit the potential of new eu-sponsored initiatives aiming at enhancing regional integration and connectivity; increase consultation and coordination with african counterparts in the definition of specific projects to be developed in the global gateway framework; ### acknowledge that safe and efficient infrastructures are key to consistent , sustainable and fair development in the region; fully exploit the potential of new eu-sponsored initiatives aiming at enhancing regional integration and connectivity; increase consultation and coordination with african counterparts in the definition of specific projects to be developed in the global gateway framework;


### take note of the growing , multifaceted influence of third parties in the region; recognise that the increasing presence of actors that do not share the union`s values , interests and objectives could undermine the eu’s role as a privileged partner; ### take note of the growing , multifaceted and often opaque influence of third parties such as china , russia and turkey in the region particularly in the economic , energy , security and military spheres; and take , when possible , all the appropriate actions to counter these interferences; recognise that the increasing presence of factors that do not share the union`s values , interests and objectives could undermine the eu’s role as a privileged partner;


### reinforce strategic communication through effective and fact-based campaigns about eu actions and eu sponsored initiatives in the region , underlining their added value for local communities , sustainable development and inclusive growth , while also countering disinformation and false narratives from third parties; ### reinforce strategic communication through effective and fact-based campaigns about eu actions and eu sponsored initiatives in the region , underlining their added value for local communities , sustainable development and inclusive growth , while also countering disinformation and false narratives from third parties such as russia;


### b. whereas the southern neighbourhood should not be seen in a vacuum , but in close correlation with the eastern neighbourhood and an overall reflection on how to pursue closer relations between the eu and its neighbours; whereas both the eu’s southern and eastern neighbourhoods are strategic for the eu in that they can ensure shorter and , therefore , more secure and more effective supply lines; whereas the eu should pursue a common regulatory space that includes its southern and eastern neighbourhoods , and therefore ensures access for its neighbouring countries to the highest policy standards , which are multipliers of economic investment and economic growth; ### b. whereas the southern neighbourhood should not be seen in a vacuum , but in an overall reflection on how to pursue closer relations between the eu and its neighbours; whereas both the eu’s southern and eastern neighbourhoods are strategic for the eu in various fields , such as the security , managing conflicts or the risk of terrorism , combating climate change , trade , managing migration , etc. whereas the eu should pursue a common regulatory space that includes its neighbourhoods , and therefore ensures access for its neighbouring countries to the highest policy standards , which are not only multipliers of economic investment and economic growth but are also crucial for a better security and political stability of both these countries and the eu and for environmental protection;


### c. whereas the war in ukraine has underlined the threat posed by third countries that seek political and economic hegemony in the eu’s neighbourhood to the detriment of the democratic aspirations and territorial integrity of target countries; whereas russia , china and iran are all seeking to increase their capacity to exercise political and/or economic hegemony in certain southern neighbourhood countries and , therefore , the eu’s capacity-building for fighting disinformation and promoting freedom of the press is crucial; whereas the eu should reaffirm its role as the primary political , economic and democratic anchor for the countries of the southern neighbourhood; ### c. whereas the war in ukraine has been the latest illustration of the threat posed by third countries that seek political and economic hegemony in the eu’s neighbourhood to the detriment of the democratic aspirations and territorial integrity of target countries; whereas russia , china , turkey , some gulf states and iran are seeking to increase their capacity to exercise political and economic hegemony in certain southern neighbourhood countries and , therefore , severely challenging the eu and its member states’ capacity-building to fight disinformation and promote freedom of the press; whereas the eu should actively focus on reducing the influence of those third countries whose actions have a negative impact on the stability of the region; whereas the eu should reaffirm its role as a privileged partner in matters such as human rights , democracy and rule of law , security , migration , prevention and fight against radicalisation and terrorism , fight against climate change , research and development;


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


### d. whereas the war in ukraine and the resulting need to further diversify the eu’s energy supply have shown the essential role of the southern neighbourhood in securing sufficient gas and oil supplies to the eu with mutual benefits for both the eu and the southern neighbourhood countries; whereas the discovery of relevant natural gas reserves in the southern and eastern mediterranean provides a unique opportunity for economic development in the countries concerned; whereas these gas reserves equally provide an important opportunity for partnership , investment and the sharing of know-how between the countries of the southern mediterranean and the eu and its member states; whereas the southern neighbourhood is therefore not only essential for reasons of regional security and stability , but also as a primary partner for access to energy sources , including renewables; ### d. whereas the war in ukraine and the need to further decarbonise and diversify eu’s energy supplies have highlighted the essential role the southern neighbourhood can have , notably in securing sufficient gas and oil supplies to the eu with mutual benefits for both the eu and the southern neighbourhood countries , in accordance with the european green deal; whereas the discovery of significant natural gas reserves in the southern and eastern mediterranean provides a unique opportunity for economic development in the countries concerned; whereas these gas reserves equally provide an important opportunity for partnerships , investments and the sharing of know-how between the countries of the southern mediterranean and the eu and its member states; whereas the southern neighbourhood is therefore not only essential for reasons of regional security and stability , but also as a primary partner for access to reliable energy sources , including renewables;


### e. whereas security and stability in the southern neighbourhood are closely correlated with the prospects for real socioeconomic integration of women and youth and their capacity to access education , vocational training , employment and adequate longer-term professional development; ### e. whereas security and stability in the southern neighbourhood are closely correlated with the full respect of the women and youth fundamental rights and also their prospects for real socioeconomic integration and their capacity to access education , vocational training , employment and adequate longer-term professional development; whereas women integration in the labour market remains significantly lower than in other parts of the world , reaching on average 19% according to the 2020 un women report on situational analysis of women in the mena region;